RTHK: N Korea "fires eight missiles" as US exercises end

North Korea fired eight short-range ballistic missiles towards the sea off its east coast on Sunday, a day after South Korea and the United States wrapped up their first combined military exercises involving an American aircraft carrier in more than four years.

The missiles were fired from the Sunan area of the North Korean capital Pyongyang, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said.

Japan's Kyodo news agency, citing a government source, also said the North had launched multiple missiles.

The launch also followed a visit to Seoul by the US point man on North Korean affairs, Special Representative Sung Kim, who departed on Saturday.

He met his South Korean and Japanese counterparts, Kim Gunn and Takehiro Funakoshi, on Friday to prepare for "all contingencies" amid signs North Korea was preparing to conduct a nuclear test for the first time since 2017.

Washington has made very clear directly to Pyongyang that it is open to diplomacy, Kim said during the visit, which wrapped up on Sunday, noting that he was willing to discuss items of interest to Pyongyang, such as sanctions relief.

Last week, the United States called for more UN sanctions on North Korea over its ballistic missile launches, but China and Russia vetoed the suggestion, publicly splitting the UN Security Council on North Korea for the first time since it started punishing it in 2006, when North Korea conducted its first nuclear test.

In recent weeks, North Korea has test-fired a range of missiles, including its largest intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM).

On Saturday, South Korean and American ships concluded three days of drills in international waters off the Japanese island of Okinawa, including air defence, anti-ship, anti-submarine, and maritime interdiction operations, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said.

The exercises included the USS Ronald Reagan, a 100,000-tonne nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, among other major warships. (Reuters)

This story has been published on: 2022-06-05. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Xi, Greek president exchange congratulations on 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties

Xinhua) 14:47, June 05, 2022

BEIJING, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping and Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou exchanged congratulatory messages on Sunday to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries.

Xi pointed out that for half a century the two sides, with a historical perspective, have been keeping with the trend of the times, firmly supported each other on issues involving their respective core interests and major concerns, worked together in the joint construction of the Belt and Road in a spirit of openness and win-win cooperation, and carried forward the wisdom of the time-honored civilizations and the Olympic spirit, which have brought tangible benefits to the two countries and their people and set a good example of mutual learning among civilizations for the international community.

Xi stressed that he attaches great importance to the development of China-Greece relations, and stands ready to work with President Sakellaropoulou to take the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties as an opportunity to deepen the traditional friendship, expand practical cooperation, promote cultural exchanges and enrich the connotation of the China-Greece comprehensive strategic partnership, so as to benefit the two countries and their people.

In her message, Sakellaropoulou said that over the past five decades since the establishment of diplomatic relations, Greece and China have nurtured bilateral relations featuring cooperation and friendship in the spirit of mutual understanding and mutual respect.

She expressed the confidence that both sides will join hands to advance the grand goal of promoting dialogue among civilizations and safeguarding world peace.

Also on Sunday, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis exchanged congratulatory messages.

Li said China is ready to work with Greece and take the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties as a new start to consolidate political mutual trust and continuously deepen cooperation in such fields as infrastructure, marine transport and new energy, so as to promote big strides in the China-Greece comprehensive strategic partnership and take it to even higher levels.

For his part, Mitsotakis said the solid friendship and high-level cooperation between Greece and China have set a good example for countries across the world.

The prime minister extended the hope that the two countries take the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties as an opportunity to enhance cooperation in global affairs and push for sustained development of bilateral relations.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Bianji)
KABUL, June 5 (Xinhua) -- The Taliban-run caretaker administration has said Washington's report on deteriorating religious freedom in Afghanistan was utterly incorrect.

"The religious and civil rights of all minorities in Afghanistan are protected. In this regard, the State Department's report is incomplete and based on false information. All our Sunnis, Shiites, Sikhs and Hindus practice their religion freely. We reject the State Dept. report," the administration's chief spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said on Twitter on Sunday.

In its annual report released recently, the U.S. State Department accused Afghanistan's new rulers of violating human rights, asserting that situation for religious freedom in Afghanistan has been deteriorating since the Taliban's takeover of the country in August last year, according to media reports. 
will address its security concerns in northern with a new cross-border operation, Turkish President has said.

Erdogan made the announcement in an address to his party members in the capital Ankara, noting the new operation will make up for the "shortcomings" of the security line on its southern borders, Xinhua news agency reported.

The Turkish military "destroyed the terror corridor" that Syria's Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) has aimed to build, he said, referring to Turkey's four previous operations in northern along the Turkish border.

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 . Turkish authorities say the operations aim to eliminate terror threats and provide a safe zone that will facilitate the return of Syrian refugees to their homes.

On Wednesday, Erdogan said Turkey's planned new military operation in Syria will target the YPG in Tell Rifaat and Manbij areas near the northern city of Aleppo before gradually extending to other parts of the neighboring country.

The PKK, listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, has been rebelling against the Turkish government for more than three decades. Ankara sees the YPG as the Syrian branch of the PKK.

--IANS

int/shs

(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.)
Last week, the (EU) decided to phase out imports of crude oil from through the sea routes by the year-end. Another notable move is the proposal to deny to carrying Russian oil anywhere in the world. The details of the proposed ban are being worked out. The concerns of the vessel owners, especially in Greece and Cyprus, have to be taken on board before imposing an ban. If implemented, the ban can impact easy movement of Russian oil as few shipping companies will be willing to transport oil in uninsured tankers.

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The on Sunday suspended its spokesperson Nupur Sharma and expelled its Delhi media head Naveen Kumar Jindal as the row over their alleged derogatory remarks against Prophet Muhammad escalated with protests from some Muslim countries.

Amid demonstrations by Muslim groups and the strong reaction from countries like and Qatar, the issued a statement asserting that it respects all religions and strongly denounces insult of any religious personality.

Sharma's comments, made in a TV debate nearly 10 days back, and Jindal's now-deleted tweets, sparked a Twitter trend calling for a boycott of Indian products in some countries, while and summoned the Indian ambassadors and handed over to them protest notes on what the Gulf countries called categorical "rejection and condemnation" of the controversial remarks of the leader against Prophet Muhammad.

The foreign ministries of the two Gulf countries welcomed the statement issued by the ruling party in India in which it announced the suspension of the leader. Incidentally, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu is currently on an official visit to .

The Indian Ambassador in said in a tweet that the controversial tweets do not, in any manner, reflect the views of the government of India. "These are the views of fringe elements," the Indian Embassy quoting him said.

With its members' comments stoking protests in the country, including violence in Kanpur, and causing ripples abroad, the BJP swung into action to control the damage as it tried to assuage the concerns of minorities and distanced itself from these members.

Before cracking the whip on the two members, the ruling party also issued a statement underscoring its respect for all religions and their revered figures. Party general secretary Arun Singh said in a statement that the party is strongly against any ideology which insults or demeans any sect or religion.

The BJP does not promote such people or philosophy, he said. The BJP statement, however, made no direct mention of any incident or comment.

The statement announcing action against Sharma and Jindal also made no particular reference to their controversial remarks.

The Congress and other opposition parties claimed the BJP's action against its leaders is ''placatory' and taken following ''threats'' and ''pressure'' from ''external powers".

In his statement, BJP's Arun Singh said, "During the thousands of years of history of India every religion has blossomed and flourished. The Bharatiya Janata Party respects all religions. The BJP strongly denounces insult of any religious personalities of any religion." India's Constitution gives the right to every citizen to practice any religion of his or her choice and to honour and respect every religion, he said.

"As India celebrates the 75th year of its Independence, we are committed to making India a great country where all are equal and everyone lives with dignity, where all are committed to India's unity and integrity, where all enjoy the fruits of growth and development," the BJP leader said.

The communication to Sharma from the party's disciplinary committee secretary Om Pathak said she has expressed views contrary to the party's position on various matters, which is in clear violation of its constitution.

"Pending further inquiry, you are suspended from the party and from your responsibilities, assignments if any, with immediate effect," it said. The communication from Delhi BJP chief Adesh Gupta to Jindal said his views on social media vitiate communal harmony and are in violation of the party's fundamental beliefs.

He has acted against the party's policies and ideology, Gupta said. "Your primary membership is immediately terminated and you are expelled from the party," Gupta said.

Jindal said that he had tweeted asking a question to those attacking and insulting Hindu deities and it was not aimed at hurting the religious sentiments of any community.

After the action, Sharma unconditionally withdrew her controversial statement made in the TV debate and claimed that her comments were a reaction to "continuous insult and disrespect towards our Mahadev"' (Lord Shiva).

Both Sharma and Jindal said it was never their intention to hurt anyone's religious feelings.

In a statement posted on Twitter, Nupur Sharma said, "I have been attending TV debates for the past many days where our Mahadev was being insulted and disrespected continuously. It was mockingly being said that it is not Shivling but a fountain. The Shivling was also being ridiculed by comparing it to roadside signs and poles in Delhi." She was apparently referring to the claims of Hindu groups about the presence of a Shivling at the Gyanvapi mosque in Varanasi.

She added, "If my words have caused discomfort or hurt religious feelings of anyone whatsoever, I hereby unconditionally withdraw my statement. It was never my intention to hurt anyone's religious feelings." Muslim groups have been holding protests demanding action against Sharma. Cases have been filed against her in Mumbai, Hyderabad and Pune, accusing her of hurting religious sentiments.

Both Sharma and Jindal also requested people on Twitter not to disclose their addresses, saying they and their families are facing threats.

Their messages were apparently in reaction to some users sharing the party's communications to them on the action against them, as the letters carried their addresses too.

After the BJP's action, its minority cell head Jamal Siddiqui said it showed the "actual face" of the party and sent a message to the rank and file that no one would be allowed to violate Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mantra of 'sabka saath, sabka vikas'.

Congress general secretary and chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala, however, accused the BJP of pushing India into a dark age of religious polarisation to "subserve its parochial political agenda in the short term".

"The placatory expulsion of two key members and spokespersons of the BJP from its primary membership, done obviously under duress of threats from external powers, exposes the much touted 'muscular posturing' and positioning of the BJP and the Modi government," he said in a statement.

(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.)
Ahead of the June 10 Rajya Sabha elections, president Sonia Gandhi has appointed senior party leaders, including Mallikarjun Kharge and Bhupesh Baghel, as observers.

While Kharge has been made the observer for Maharashtra, Baghel and Rajeev Shukla have been made observers for Haryana, and Pawan Kumar Bansal and T S Singh Deo for Rajasthan.

The is seeking to ensure that its candidates win the Rajya Sabha (RS) elections in Haryana, Rajasthan and Maharashtra, while the BJP has put its weight behind independent candidates in Haryana and Rajasthan.

AICC general secretary Ajay Maken is the candidate from Haryana, where two seats have fallen vacant.

The Congress and the BJP are likely to get one seat each, but the BJP has backed media baron Kartikeya Sharma as an independent.

Sharma is the son of Venod Sharma and son-in-law of former Haryana Speaker Kuldeep Sharma. Both are considered close to former Haryana chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda.

The Congress needs 31 votes to win the seat and has as many MLAs. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is banking on cross-voting.

For the four Rajya Sabha seats in Rajasthan, the Congress has fielded three candidates -- Randeep Surjewala, Mukul Wasnik and Pramod Tiwari.

While the Congress is sure to get two seats, it needs 15 more votes to win the third seat of Tiwari. The BJP has fielded its former minister Ghanshyam Tiwari, and backed media baron Subhash Chandra as an independent for the second seat.

In Maharashtra, the Shiv Sena and the BJP will battle it out for the sixth seat of Rajya Sabha as none of the seven candidates in the fray -- four of the ruling Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) and three of BJP -- withdrew their nominations on Friday.

The Congress has also fielded another candidate Mansoor Ali Khan in Karnataka, where the election will be held on June 10 for four seats. Jairam Ramesh is the other Congress candidate.

The Congress is expecting three seats in Rajasthan and the BJP is expecting one of its own and is supporting an independent and Subhash Chandra for the fourth seat.

Meanwhile, nearly 70 Congress MLAs from Rajasthan are camping at a hotel in Udaipur ahead of the Rajya Sabha elections to the four seats in which the party fears horse trading by the opposition BJP, party sources said.

The Congress, with its 108 MLAs in the state assembly, is set to win two seats.

After winning the two seats, the party will have 26 surplus votes, 15 short of the required 41 to win the third seat. On the other hand, the BJP has 71 MLAs in the state assembly and is set to win one seat after which it will be left with 30 surplus votes.

The Congress has also shifted its MLAs in Haryana to a resort in Raipur in Congress-ruled Chhattisgarh.

Of the 57 vacancies in Rajya Sabha, 41 candidates in 11 states have so far been elected unopposed. The elections will be held for 16 seats in four states of Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Haryana and Karnataka.

(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 group of Congress MLAs, who had expressed resentment with the party and government, met Chief Minister at his residence late on Saturday night and held discussions, party sources said on Sunday.

Rajendra Gudha, Sandeep Yadav, Wajib Ali, Lakhan Meena, (BSP turned Congress MLAs), Girraj Singh Malinga and Khiladi Lal Bairwa met Gehlot, the sources said.

Discussions were held on matters related to the MLAs, the sources said.

The sources said these MLAs are likely to go to Udaipur along with the chief minister on Sunday.

Gehlot is set to visit Udaipur on Sunday to meet his party MLAs and Independents who have been housed in a hotel amid fears of horse-trading ahead of election on four seats of the Rajya Sabha in the state on June 10.

The chief minister was scheduled to visit Udaipur on Saturday but the tour was postponed.

At present, around 90 MLAs, including 11 of the 13 Independents, are lodged in the hotel in Udaipur.

The Congress has a total of 108 MLAs, including six BSP legislators who had merged with the party. Of the six, only one is present in Udaipur as of now.

Some of them had expressed resentment with the Congress and the government, and had stayed back in Jaipur.

The Congress has fielded three candidates -- Mukul Wasnik, Randeep Surjewala and Pramod Tiwari, while the BJP has nominated former minister Ghanshyam Tiwari and supported media baron Subhash Chandra who has filed nomination as an Independent.

Congress leaders claim support of 126 MLAs, including 108 of the party. It requires a total of 123 votes to win three seats.

(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.)
Suspended from the following her alleged derogatory remark against Prophet Muhammad, Nupur Sharma on Sunday unconditionally withdrew the controversial statement made in a TV debate and said it was never her intention to hurt anyone's religious feelings.

Sharma, who was a spokesperson, claimed that her comments were a reaction to "continuous insult and disrespect towards our Mahadev"' (Lord Shiva) as she could not tolerate it.

In a statement posted on Twitter, she said, "I have been attending TV debates for the past many days where our Mahadev was being insulted and disrespected continuously. It was mockingly being said that it is not Shivling but a fountain. The Shivling was also being ridiculed by comparing it to roadside signs and poles in Delhi."



She was apparently referring to the discovery of what Hindu groups have claimed is a Shivling at the Gyanvapi mosque in Varanasi.

She added, "If my words have caused discomfort or hurt religious feelings of anyone whatsoever, I hereby unconditionally withdraw my statement. It was never my intention to hurt anyone's religious feelings."



Muslim groups have been holding protests demanding action against her.

Cases have been filed against Sharma in Mumbai, Hyderabad and Pune, accusing her of hurting religious sentiments.

(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.)
Punjab's main opposition party has fielded former MLA Dalvir Singh Goldy, while the has announced the candidature of former legislator Kewal Dhillon for the June 23 Sangrur Lok Sabha bypoll.

Both Goldy and Dhillon will be filing their nominations on the last day for filing the papers on Monday.

Asked how he sees the contest, Goldy said, "I feel I can strongly raise the voice of the people of Sangrur for its overall development."



The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has fielded Dhillon, a former MLA from Barnala, who joined the saffron outfit with four other leaders from the state here on Saturday.

Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had defeated Goldy, who was the MLA from Dhuri, from the seat in the Assembly polls held earlier in the year.

The ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has announced the candidature of the party's Sangrur district in-charge, Gurmail Singh, for the bypoll. Singh and SAD (Amritsar) nominee Simranjit Singh Mann filed their nominations on Saturday.

Kamaldeep Kaur, the sister of Balwant Singh Rajoana, a convict in former Punjab chief minister Beant Singh's assassination case, has been fielded by the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) for the June 23 bypoll.

The Sangrur Lok Sabha seat fell vacant after Mann successfully contested the Assembly polls from Dhuri.

Mann had won the Lok Sabha polls from Sangrur in 2014 and 2019.

The counting of votes will be taken up on June 26.

(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.)
Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Sunday described the upcoming by-elections as an acid test for the ruling and hoped that voters will give a befitting reply to those who necessitated the "untimely polls".

By-elections to Agartala, Town Bardowali (West Tripura district), Surma (Dhalai) and Jubarajnagar (North Tripura) assembly constituencies are scheduled to be held on June 23 and results will be declared on June 26. Assembly elections to the 60-member House will be held early next year.

"It would have been better had the by-elections been avoided as assembly elections will be held within the next six months," Saha told reporters.

The dentist-turned-chief minister, who took over the baton from Biplab Kumar Deb in May, is contesting from Town Bardowali seat.

"Voters will give a befitting reply to those for whom the by-election was necessitated," Saha said in reference to turncoats. The bypolls were necessitated after three MLAs quit the party and the assembly and a CPI(M) legislator died.

"Although the considers every election as final, the upcoming bypolls will be an acid test for the ruling dispensation. If our strategy for the by-elections succeeds, we will replicate it in next year's assembly elections, else we will have to bring a change to it," he said.

Claiming that the BJP has an edge in the bypolls, Saha said feedback from the people seems encouraging.

"There has been no trouble after the announcement of candidates. All BJP nominees will submit their nomination papers on Monday. Don't be surprised if Deb remains present during the submission of the documents," he said.

The former chief minister is currently in Delhi with his family.

"The BJP is trying to bring a new culture in which will be free from violence and instability. Stray incidents do happen during an election but overall, people are able to go to polling stations and exercise their democratic rights in a festive mood. The by-elections will also be peaceful," he said.

On his chances of winning the seat he is contesting, the 69-year-old dental surgeon said, "For the first time, a chief minister is seeking a mandate from the voters of Town Bardowali, which is an advantage for me. Besides, I am a familiar face to the people of the constituency because of my social and professional work. Also, I reside here."



Saha, who is not a member of the assembly, was sworn in as the new chief minister on May 15, a day after Deb stepped down from the post.

(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.)
In a stinging attack on the BJP-led Central government, Shiv Sena MP on Sunday said it wouldn't be surprising if the Enforcement Directorate issues summons against former prime minister in the Herald newspaper case and paste the notice on his memorial.

In his weekly column published in Sena mouthpiece Saamana, Raut alleged that Herald was like a weapon created by Nehru during the freedom struggle and not a property.

"When will traders in the present-day understand this?" asked Raut, who is the executive editor of Saamana, in an apparent jibe at the BJP.

The ED recently issued summons to Congress president Sonia Gandhi and her MP son Rahul Gandhi in connection with a money laundering probe. It was for alleged irregularities in party-promoted Young Indian, which owns the Herald newspaper.

The Shiv Sena, headed by Uddhav Thackeray, shares power with NCP and Congress in Maharashtra. Raut is the chief spokesperson of Sena.

Raut stated that the National Herald newspaper started by Nehru had lost its political significance long ago but the over it continues.

"When started this newspaper in 1937, Mahatma Gandhi, Vallabhbhai Patel and Nehru himself were its pillars. The British feared this newspaper for its factual reporting and banned it between 1942 to 45," Raut said.

The newspaper wasn't started for monetary reasons but the ED has summoned Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi on charges of money laundering, in this case, he said.

Raut stated that Nehru's soul was in the National Herald and he had told reporters never to write out of fear.

"When someone said that the (National Herald) newspaper had become a headache for Congress despite being its mouthpiece, Nehru got enraged and asked 'what do you want me to do? Call the editor and ask him to praise everyone. What is the use of the editor who only praises," Raut said quoting Nehru.

When National Herald was suffering losses, Nehru even offered to sell his house, Anand Bhavan, the Shiv Sena leader said quoting anecdotes from the book of PD Tandon, who was associated with the National Herald during Nehru's time.

He said Nehru ensured that (Purshottam Das) Tandon's telephone bills are paid on time apprehending his arrest while visiting Mumbai.

"Tandon wrote that Nehru had ensured that his (Tandon's) future bills would be reimbursed by Vijayalaxmi Pandit and Indira Gandhi (Nehru's daughter) and not by National Herald," Raut stated.

Drawing similarities between Saamana and National Herald, Raut said both the newspapers are not properties but are carriers of thoughts and principles.

Raut said he had discussed the National Herald issue with Rahul Gandhi and some Congressmen.

"The case pertains to only repaying a loan which cannot be called money laundering. It wouldn't be surprising if ED summons Nehru too in the case and pastes a notice on his memorial," he stated.

Raut said that questions were also raised over PM CARES Fund and that certain financial transactions were executed by several institutions under Sangh Parivar.

"There was no need to stretch the case this far. Congress might have made certain financial dealings to ensure that the legacy started by Nehru survived. Such transactions are made by several institutions under Sangh Parivar. Questions have also been raised over the PM Cares Fund and crores of rupees deposited in the BJP treasury," he alleged and said Nehru's National Herald has been branded as criminal.

"Some people's souls will get peace only after notices of the CBI and the ED reach Pandit Nehru," he 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.)
on Sunday reported 68 COVID-19 cases, which took its tally to 12,25,462, while the death toll stood unchanged at 10,944, an official said.

The recovery count increased by 21 to touch 12,14,178, leaving the state with an active caseload of 340, he added.

Ahmedabad accounted for 42 of the new cases, followed by 11 in Vadodara, four in Rajkot, two in Surat, among other districts, he informed.

The number of COVID-19 vaccination doses administered in the state rose to 11.02 crore, including 55,714 on Sunday, a government release said.

The Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu continued to be coronavirus-free, a local official said.

Gujarat's COVID-19 figures are as follows: Positive cases 12,25,462, new cases 68, death toll 10,944, discharged 12,14,178, active cases 340, people tested so far - figures not released.

(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.)
KABUL, June 5 (Xinhua) -- A total of 60 Afghan youth have been commissioned into the unit of special forces of the National Army after receiving special military training, said a statement of the Defense Ministry on Sunday.

In a ceremony held in 217 Omari Corps and attended by civil and military officials, personnel of the contingent have vowed to serve the nation.

Without providing more details, the statement said the security forces would spare no efforts to stabilize security in Afghanistan.

The Taliban-run Afghanistan, according to its defense ministry spokesman Enayatullah Khawrizmi, has been trying to form up to a 150,000-strong army and efforts to achieve the goal have been continuing. 
Vice President M on Sunday met Qatar's Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani here and the two leaders held delegation level talks and reviewed bilateral relations including trade, investment, economic and security cooperation.

Naidu, who reached here on the last leg of his three-nation tour from May 30 to June 7, was accorded a ceremonial reception and a Guard of Honour at the Doha airport on Saturday.

He was also welcomed by the Indian community upon his arrival.

His visit to is taking place as both sides prepare to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi on Sunday said that Vice President Naidu and Prime Minister Abdulaziz Al Thani held delegation level talks.

PM & Minister of Interior of Qatar, Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani received VP @MVenkaiahNaidu at Amiri Diwan in Doha. Both sides held delegation level talks & reviewed bilateral relations including trade, investment, economic & security cooperation, Bagchi said on Twitter.

Naidu is also scheduled to meet several other Qatari dignitaries during this visit. He will also address a business roundtable in .

"People-to-people contacts are at the heart of the historical relations between India and Qatar, with the latter hosting over 7,50,000 Indians," the MEA said in a statement ahead of his visit to the three countries.

It said that the multifaceted cooperation between the two sides has witnessed significant growth in economic, energy, investment, education, defence, and cultural ties.

"Bilateral trade crossed USD 15 billion in FY 2021-22. Qatar has also committed investments of over USD 2 billion in various Indian companies over the past two years," it said.

Naidu, who is also the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, reached here from Senegal where he had emphasised the important role of legislature in the life of a nation and appreciated Senegal's democratic ethos, making it India's natural development partner.

India and Senegal are celebrating the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations this year.

Naidu's visit to Gabon and Senegal was aimed at adding momentum to India's engagement with Africa and emphasising its commitment to the African continent.

(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.)
Photo: Contributed

Last month, 71 per cent of British Columbians told Research Co. and Glacier Media that the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic was behind us and a similar proportion (72 per cent) expressed a wish to visit relatives or friends in person over the next fortnight. These findings suggest that the provinces residents are ready to go back to the way life was in 2019.

The way we shop has changed dramatically over the past couple of years. Fear of contagion led many of us to order groceries online. Still, there are groups of British Columbians who continue to harbour concerns about their digital information.

In 2022, we see little movement in the number of British Columbians who are partaking in specific activities related to technology at least a few times per month. More than seven in 10 of the provinces residents are visiting websites of blogs (89 per cent, up two points since 2021), accessing banking information (87 per cent, down one point), looking for deals on websites (81 per cent, up two points), using an instant messaging service (79 per cent, up two points) and looking for directions and/or maps to get to a destination (73 per cent, up four points).

The needle did not move significantly on four other activities: buying goods from a website (60 per cent, unchanged), posting on social media (57 per cent, down two points) , uploading pictures or videos to the internet (53 per cent, up three points) and using the internet to place telephone calls (39 per cent, down two points).

Some may have expected that the end of the pandemic would entice British Columbians to visit stores more often. The answer, as is the case for many matters related to technology, varies according to the age of residents. While 50 per cent of British Columbians say they buy goods from a website once a month or less, the proportion drops to 30 per cent among those aged 35 to 54 and to 24 per cent among those aged 18 to 34. For the provinces youngest adults, the internet is preferable to the physical location.

There is also little movement on the level of concern from residents on facing a setback while using technology. Just over half of British Columbians have worried occasionally or frequently over the past couple of months about two issues: having their personal information stolen over the internet (51 per cent, down two points) and computers and technology being used to invade their privacy (also 51 per cent, down two points). Slightly fewer residents have worried about somebody hacking into their computer or smartphone (46 per cent, down three points).

Our level of comfort about embarking on specific tasks online is also similar to where it was last year. Sizable majorities of British Columbians claim to be very comfortable or moderately comfortable using computers to shop (89 per cent, up two points) and to access banking information (87 per cent, unchanged).

The numbers are lower when British Columbians are asked about making a charitable donation online (73 per cent, unchanged) and commenting on an online forum that requires their email address (56 per cent, up two points).

More than three in four British Columbians (78 per cent) have more than one email address. This leaves 22 per cent of residents who deal with everything on one address  a proportion that jumps to 31 per cent among those aged 55 and over.

Some of the nuisances that we identified last year continue to clog the inboxes of British Columbians, with 63 per cent (up two points) saying they received a phishing message, where a sender attempted to acquire personal information by masquerading as a trustworthy entity. There is also an increase (58 per cent, up four points) on emails offering money for the recipients help or assistance.

Fewer British Columbians acknowledge catching a virus while browsing the internet (31 per cent, unchanged), having their social media platform hacked (16 per cent, up one point) or having their email address hacked (15 per cent, unchanged).

More than three in five British Columbians (62 per cent) have typed their name on Google to see what the internet has to say about them  a proportion that rises to 64 per cent among women and to 69 per cent among those aged 18 to 34. While 27 per cent of these curious residents found nothing, 61 per cent say the information that came up was accurate. Only 12 per cent say they encountered what can be safely described as fake news about them on the internet.

Our annual look at how British Columbians relate to digital tools leaves us with two observations. First, there is a gender gap on some of these questions. Women are significantly more likely to worry occasionally or frequently about their personal information falling into the wrong hands (55 per cent) than men (46 per cent). Female respondents are also less likely to feel very comfortable about managing tasks such as banking and shopping online than their male counterparts.

Finally, charities continue to face an enormous problem, as British Columbians are significantly more likely to trust online retailers to handle their information properly. There is a 17-point difference in the level of extreme comfort for online shopping (43 per cent) and online charitable donations (26 per cent). Some people want to give, but are evidently thrown off by the look and feel of some websites.

Mario Canseco is president of Research Co.

Results are based on an online survey conducted from May 26 to May 28, 2022, among 800 adults in British Columbia. The data has been statistically weighted according to Canadian census figures for age, gender and region in British Columbia. The margin of error  which measures sample variability  is plus or minus 3.5 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.
Photo: The Canadian Press

A family court pilot project in Kamloops may be a promising solution for domestic violence victims trying to navigate a confusing and intimidating legal system, advocates say.

An "informal" trial process is being tested as part of new court rules meant to resolve legal matters more quickly. The pilot project, developed by the Ministry of Attorney General and B.C.'s provincial court, started in Kamloops last month.

Under the model, lawyers arent necessary. Each party explains their side and the judge takes a direct role to control and manage the trial. The informal trial is voluntary and will only be used if all parties in the case and the judge agree.

The rollout of the project also means it can be assessed before being expanded, said River Shannon, a staff lawyer for the YWCA of Metro Vancouver.

"There are a lot of aspects to the pilot that I think really, really work. I think almost every aspect of this pilot is very much worth investigating and assessing, and if it's positive, I would personally be really excited to see it rolled out to more registries," Shannon said.

The provincial court said in a release the aim is to help people who don't have a lawyer use the legal system by setting aside strict court and evidence rules and just allow them to present their case "more naturally."

The parties will usually be the only witnesses and the judge will be the only person who questions them. Lawyers may, however, suggest questions for the judge to ask.

"It has certain features of a traditional court process that I think are protective for survivors," Shannon said.

Those include a court record and a judge who assesses evidence and acts as both an arbiter and questioner, and it allows for an appeal process, Shannon said.

The ministry said the project will take about two years to adequately test and "collect meaningful data."

"The pilot is being monitored by the project team on an ongoing basis and evaluation planning is underway," it said in an emailed statement.

When asked for comment from the chief judge, the court referred to its original statement, but added the Kamloops location was chosen based on several factors including "volume of cases and available resources in provincial court locations."

Kathleen Kendall, a family duty counsel lawyer in Kamloops, said she was consulted before the start of the pilot.

"I think it's really important for the judges to emphasize to people that this is voluntary, that it's only going to be (used) if you consent to it," she said. "It's going to be a more open process and I think that can work well for self-represented people."

Another project operating from the same family court rules has been criticized by some advocates.

The mediation aspect of the Early Resolution Model, currently operating in Victoria and Surrey, risks repeating the same power imbalances that exist within abusive relationships, said agencies that support people transitioning out of relationships with domestic violence.

Angela Marie MacDougall, executive director of Battered Women Support Services, said the Kamloops family court project is a more promising solution to addressing the needs of victims of intimate partner violence.

I appreciate (the province) is trying different things, and this is closer to what we would want to see, not what they're doing in Victoria and Surrey, when it comes to violence," she said.

MacDougall said research has found that mediation in legal proceedings involving victims of intimate partner violence "should not be used and should not be suggested."

"Rather, we believe that a victim should have the benefit of an advocate, as well as a lawyer," she said.

MacDougall said the most important aspect to the informal court model will be ensuring judges are trained in intimate partner violence and are willing to hear evidence about abuse.

The devil's in the details, but so far it's looking like this is a better practice," she said.

The statement from the Ministry of the Attorney General said provincial court judges attend 2 1/2-day education programs twice a year for training on subjects including intimate partner violence and mental health issues.

Shannon agreed the informal court process seems to address most of the complaints from victims' advocates about dispute resolution.

"I tend to be a pessimist but I'm really optimistic about this pilot, and I would like for British Columbians to be excited about it and watching it because it might really offer a realistic solution, especially to low-income or self-represented folks moving through the family system."
Lao students perform during a Chinese poetry recitation party on the occasion of Dragon Boat Festival, at the National University of Laos, in Vientiane, Laos, June 3, 2022. (Photo by Kaikeo Saiyasane/Xinhua)

VIENTIANE, June 5 (Xinhua) -- A party for Chinese poem recitation on the occasion of the Dragon Boat Festival was held at the National University of Laos (NUOL) here on Friday.

The gathering, providing Lao university students with an encounter with China's rich culture, was organized by China Cultural Center in Laos and collaborated with NUOL.

Hundreds of people, mostly Lao university students, gathered to learn and enjoy the beauty of Chinese poetry, accompanied by songs, music and dances in Lao style.

The Dragon Boat Festival, also called the Duanwu Festival, is traditionally celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth month on the Chinese lunar calendar. People in China usually race dragon boats and eat Zongzi, a sticky rice dumpling wrapped up with bamboo or reed leaves during the festival.

Director of The China Cultural Center in Laos Li Yiping said in the opening speech that she hoped this festive event will become a bridge of friendship to enhance mutual understanding between the people of China and Laos and promote the building of a community with a shared future.

The Duanwu Festival is to commemorate Qu Yuan, a patriotic poet and minister of the ancient state of Chu during the Warring States Period (475-221 BC) in the Chinese history.

As a poet, Qu Yuan is known today for his patriotism and contributions to classical verse. Lines such as "The way ahead is long and has no ending, yet high and low I'll search with my will unbending" are still spread widely.

"This activity not only increased our knowledge of Chinese culture, I also learned a lot about the origin of the Dragon Boat Festival in China, and traditional Chinese poetry," student Phonethip Chanthavong from the Faculty of Letters under the National University of Laos told Xinhua.

She added that the festival reflects Chinese people's love of the poet and also the patriotism of Chinese people.

"It is good to know more about Chinese culture through these kinds of activities," said Phonethip.

A student named Koun Chittasone, who has performed at the event told Xinhua that this celebration provided an opportunity for Lao students to learn and experience Chinese culture.

"I learned a lot from this activity. I learned about the origin of the Dragon Boat Festival and Zongzi in China. I hope this event contributes to enhancing and deepening the friendship between Laos and China," he added.

Head of the Chinese department in the Faculty of Letter under the NUOL Somsanouk Dalavong said this activity breaks the limitation that students absorb knowledge only from books, instead, they can personally understand and experience the Chinese culture and the relationship between Laos and China.

"Through poetry, we can explore and further understand Chinese culture and the stories behind their poems," Somsanouk said. 

Lao students perform during a Chinese poetry recitation party on the occasion of Dragon Boat Festival, at the National University of Laos, in Vientiane, Laos, June 3, 2022. (Photo by Kaikeo Saiyasane/Xinhua)

A Lao student performs during a Chinese poetry recitation party on the occasion of Dragon Boat Festival, at the National University of Laos, in Vientiane, Laos, June 3, 2022. (Photo by Kaikeo Saiyasane/Xinhua)
Photo: The Canadian Press Queen Elizabeth II waves to the crowd during the Platinum Jubilee Pageant at the Buckingham Palace in London, Sunday.

Canada has joined much of the world in celebrating the Queen's Platinum Jubilee marking her historic 70 years on the British throne.

A spokesperson for Rideau Hall issued a statement on Sunday saying the Governor General's official residence has been the backdrop for several Jubilee celebrations, including The Canadian Heraldic Authority creating Canada's own unique emblem for the milestone.

The City of Toronto says it planted 70 large trees, one for each year of the queen's reign, throughout Rowntree Mills Park, attended by Mayor John Tory and Ontario Lieut. Gov. Elizabeth Dowdeswell.

Peter Maharaj, president of the Canadian Indo Caribbean Organization of Ottawa, says the group held a local celebration in honour of the queen over the weekend and described her as the "heart of the Commonwealth."

Maharaj says about 300 people attended, enjoying a buffet and listening to a performance by The Sons of Scotland Pipe Band.

Susannah Goshko, British high commissioner to Canada, held a Jubilee party at Earnscliffe manor in Ottawa on Saturday, showcasing British food, drink and music.
Photo: The Canadian Press A group of men pray during a ceremony and March for the Afzaal family in London, Ont. on Sunday June 5, 2022.

Relatives, community members and dignitaries called for an end to racism and Islamophobia today at an emotional march in London, Ont., marking the one-year anniversary of a deadly attack on a Muslim family.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Transport Minister Omar Alghabra were among those who attended the event where leaders from the Muslim community and friends of the victims called for action to address Islamophobia.

Trudeau says millions of Canadians are facing microaggression, discrimination and systemic racism as reality every day, adding the situation must change.

He says his government has taken action to address hate and racism in Canada, but there is more work that should be done.

Salman Afzaal, 46, his wife Madiha Salman, 44, their 15-year-old daughter Yumna and her 74-year-old grandmother, Talat Afzaal, died after police say they were deliberately hit by a truck during an evening walk on June 6, 2021, in London, Ont.

The family's nine-year-old boy was hurt, but survived. A 21-year-old man faces four counts of first-degree murder in what prosecutors say was an act of terrorism.

The case has not yet gone to trial.

Esa Islam, a cousin of Yumnah, says the attack has changed his life and left a gaping wound in his heart.

He says politicians should follow their supportive words with actions to prevent similar attacks from happening in the future.
The COVID-19 cases in India have crossed the 4,000-mark for the second time in the past four days on Sunday, as the country logged 4,270 fresh infections in the past 24 hours, according to the Union Health Ministry.

On Friday, after nearly three months, the daily tally of COVID-19 cases in India had crossed the 4,000-mark with the country recording 4,041 fresh infections. However, the country reported a marginal dip yesterday with 3,962 new COVID cases.

With this, India's active COVID caseload stands at 24,052, constituting 1.03 percent of the country's total positive cases.

The daily positivity rate of 1.03 percent was observed in the last 24 hours, while the weekly positivity rate was recorded to be 0.84 percent, the health ministry informed today.

With 2,619 recoveries in the last 24 hours hence, the total recoveries now reached 4,26,28,073. India's Recovery Rate is currently at 98.73 percent.

Meanwhile, the COVID-19 cases in Maharashtra also recorded over 1,000 new infections on Saturday, the highest since February 20 when 1,437 infections were logged. Of these, Mumbai accounts for over 60 percent of cases in the state as the city logged 889 infections yesterday.

As per the health ministry, India conducted 4,13,699 COVID-19 tests in the last 24 hours. The country has so far conducted 85.26 crore total tests so far, as per the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) data.

The country has administered more than 194.09 (1,94,09,46,157) vaccine doses so far under the Nationwide Vaccination Drive. This has been achieved through 2,47,42,189 sessions.

India has also administered 3,65,91,994 precaution doses to all the beneficiaries so far.

COVID-19 vaccination for the age group 12-14 years began on March 16, 2022. So far, more than 3.44 crore (3,44,23,443) adolescents have been administered the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

The ministry also informed that more than 193.53 crores (1,93,53,58,865) vaccine doses have been provided to States and UTs so far, while over 14.81 crores (14,81,06,650) balance and unutilized COVID vaccine doses are still available with them to be administered.

(ANI)
Pakistan is replicating Sri Lanka while trying to solve its economic crisis, denying its past mistakes as well as the current happenings domestically and ignoring the lessons it could have learned from the island nation.

Sri Lanka has been under severe socio-economic and political turmoil for nearly two months now, an outcome of economic mismanagement resulting from a way too ambitious political leadership and excessive external borrowings, Pakistan has been taking exactly the same steps towards economic disaster, reported True Ceylon.

It would not be a shocker that Pakistan would soon face a 'Sri Lanka type' crisis with shortages of foreign exchange reserves, food, fuel and medicines.

The economic impediments in Pakistan have been exacerbated by the self-obsessed 'Establishment' and further complicated by political parties wanting to be in power by doling out populist economic policies, reported True Ceylon.

Pakistan is rapidly widening its current account deficit coupled with an equally fast depleting foreign exchange reserves. Given the economy's dependence on imports- for both food and fuel, the rising global prices have resulted in a humungous increase in the imports bill in Pakistan.

As a consequence, imports that were to the tune of USD 44.7 billion in FY 2020-21 (July-April) have increased by about 58 per cent in FY 2021-22 (July-April) to reach USD 65.5 billion.

The import bill for petroleum products alone has registered a jump of about 95 per cent, to reach about USD 17 billion in the first ten months of FY 2021-22 (from about USD 8.7 billion for the same period in the previous year).

The trade deficit has thus exploded from USD 24 billion in FY 2020-21 (July-April) to USD 39 billion in FY 2021-22 (July-April), a huge increase of about 65 per cent. Similarly, the current account deficit has increased to USD 13 billion in FY 2021-22 (July-April), reported True Ceylon.

The deteriorating security situation in the country together with the political turmoil that is underway have forced foreign investors to increasingly shun the country as an investment destination. Both Foreign Direct Investments and Foreign Portfolio Investments are moving out of the country, the net outflow being a little more than USD 2 billion in FY 2021-22 (July-March).

This has resulted in an acute shortage of dollars in the country and the concomitant sharp depreciation of the Pakistani rupee. Like the Sri Lankan rupee nosedived in March 2022, the value of the Pakistani rupee has been falling drastically.

Also, the political masters have been chalking out one grand project after another, to be financed by costly external commercial borrowings.

Adding to the debt burden are the huge loans availed of at commercial rates of interest from Pakistan's 'all-weather friend and steel brother' China. Under the garb of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, Pakistan, like Sri Lanka, is now in the tight grip of China's 'debt trap', with economically unviable projects like the Gwadar port, reported True Ceylon.

SEZs and coal-based power projects yield literally no economic benefits to it. On the contrary, loans amounting to about USD 11 billion have been taken from China, all favoring the Chinese creditors.

In the power sector alone, the country has been facing the problem of circular debt amounting to USD 2.6 trillion. For the power projects developed under CPEC under the Independent Power Producers (IPPs) mode, it is estimated that Pakistan owes USD 1.3 billion USD as arrears to the Chinese IPPs. The total debt incurred by Pakistan on the power projects under CPEC is pegged at USD 3 billion.

China has also shown no leniency in terms of reducing the power tariffs agreed under CPEC nor waived off debt repayment obligations; instead, it has held the approval of new projects hostage to payment of arrears and debt servicing.

In short, Pakistan coveting closer relations with China is not only amounting to a drain of precious economic resources but also reeks of hypocrisy, given Pakistan's efforts to espouse the cause of Muslims (e.g. in Palestine) and the growing reports of exploitation, abuse and suppression of Uyghur Muslims by China.

Moreover, Pakistan has resorted to IMF support to address its economic distress 22 times since its independence, the last being in 2019. IMF's support now banks on Pakistan's fulfillment of conditionalities it had committed to under the Extended Fund Facility in 2019.

However, an adamant Pakistan is bent on not withdrawing the massive subsidies it has announced for petrol and diesel, putting the much-needed IMF support at the risk of discontinuation.

Pakistan is repeating the same mistake as Sri Lanka in playing down the capability of the IMF and its support program for the sheer reason of avoiding difficult but vital structural reform measures and instead of looking to bilateral partners for financial help and support.

(ANI)

Also Read: China furthers military expansion in Solomon Islands
SUNDAY, June 5, 2022 (HealthDay News) -- A skin biopsy is often used to diagnose skin cancer and other skin conditions.

It involves the removal of a small amount of skin, which is examined under a microscope. Afterwards, you'll need to look after the biopsy location to make sure it heals properly.

"Your dermatologist will treat the small wound from the skin biopsy during your visit," said dermatologist Dr. Rajiv Nijhawan, an associate professor at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas.

"Continuing to care for your wound once you get home is important because it will help it heal, reduce scarring and decrease chances of infection," he said in an American Academy of Dermatology news release.

Wash your hands before touching your wound. To care for your wound, gently wash the biopsy area with mild soap and water. Rinse thoroughly and gently pat dry with a clean wash cloth.

To keep the wound moist and help it heal faster, apply petroleum jelly from a squeeze tube to the wound. Then cover the wound with an adhesive bandage or sterile gauze and paper tape. Do this daily for as long as your dermatologist recommends.

Do not use topical antibiotics unless advised by your dermatologist because they can cause allergic reactions.

Applying petroleum jelly can also help relieve itching as the wound heals. Itching can also be a sign of an allergic reaction or skin irritation. Cover the wound with a nonstick pad and paper tape instead of an adhesive bandage.

If your wound starts bleeding, apply firm and steady pressure with a sterile gauze pad for 20 minutes. Call your dermatologist's office if your wound is still bleeding after 20 minutes.

If you have pain at the biopsy site, take acetaminophen or place an ice pack over the bandage to relieve swelling.

Reduce scarring by protecting the biopsy site from the sun. Cover it with sun-protective clothing, apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and stay in the shade when possible.

"If you have any signs of infection such as worsening pain, increased swelling, warmth or fever, contact your dermatologist," Nijhawan said.

More information

For more on skin biopsy, see the U.S. National Library of Medicine.

SOURCE: American Academy of Dermatology, news release, May 31, 2022
Robby Starbuck, who was taken off the Republican primary during a closed meeting of the State Executive Committee of the GOP is back on the ballot.

He won an injunction from Chancellor Russell Perkins in Davidson County.

An earlier effort in Federal Court had been denied.

Chancellor Perkins found that the state Sunshine Law had been violated.

The SEC had decided he was not a bona fide Republican.

Mr. Starbuck said after the ruling, "We won. Im almost speechless. After all of the lies and corruption, weve received justice in our case to prove that the State Executive Committee for the Tennessee Republican Party took illegal action when they voted in secret to remove me from the ballot. Judge Perkins has ordered that my name be restored to the ballot. I cant thank the Judge enough for having a judicial compass that pointed him toward justice for the people in our case. Today the underhanded, secret plot to remove the peoples choice in favor of controllable career politicians like Andy Ogles and Beth Harwell has failed. Ill never forget the cowardly way folks like them supported this illegal action, and in doing so, supported disenfranchising our own voters.

"Tennessee needs a fighter and our fight in this case shows exactly why Im the kind of fighter that Tennessee needs right now. I will NEVER give up, not on you, not on Tennessee and not on America. When the chips were down, with our backs against the wall and the establishment pushing for us to give up, we doubled down and fought back. We had faith, we prayed, we worked hard and trusted God to guide us.

"Against all odds, WE WON! I say WE because this is your victory too. Every single one of you who showed up to court, shared our story or knocked on doors for our campaign, YOU won today. Our mission isnt over yet, its only just begun. Now we need your help to win this election by volunteering and donating. The one thing the establishment did succeed in was wasting our time and money but again we have faith. We have to quickly rise back into action to win, and with your help we know that we will. I have mercy in my heart for the people who did this. I hope they learned a lesson to never do this again and to allow our voters to choose our candidates.

"THE PEOPLE are the Republican Party. The party is not a backroom of 16 SEC members. I trust that theyve all heard enough criticism of their secret vote to know that secret votes are NOT what the people want. I want to thank God, my wife, my kids, my lawyers, my volunteers, all of you, Donald Trump Jr., Rand Paul, Marjorie Taylor Greene, Madison Cawthorn, Thomas Massie, Dr. Sebastian Gorka, Candace Owens, Charlie Kirk and so many others whove supported me throughout this ordeal. Youre what makes America great. Now lets go win this election for the people TOGETHER so we can put America, God and Tennessee FIRST!"
The Red Wolves welcomed Union Omaha to CHI Memorial Stadium on Saturday night as they looked to rebound from their midweek game against the Richmond Kickers. Obledas side fell behind, as Joseph Brito snuck one past Carlos Avilez in the second minute to put Union Omaha up 0-1 - a score that held to the end.

The home side had a great chance in the 10th minute as Rey Ortiz served in a great ball for Rafa Mentzingen, but his effort was barely wide of the goal. The Red Wolves would go close once again only five minutes later, as Jose Carrera-Garcia fired a wicked volley from outside the box which flashed just wide of the far post.

The Red Wolves would remain on top and had a penalty shout in the 21st minute as Rey Ortiz was dragged down in the box after a great run, but the ball went out for a goal kick.

It would be Carrera-Garcia again with a chance in the 4 th minute, as the Red Wolves played a fantastic short corner that led to a strike from outside the box that once again was nearly the equalizer in the match.

Despite the pressure, Obledas side couldnt find an equalizer and the Red Wolves went into the half down 0-1. Obleda would make a change to start the second half bringing on Jimmie Villalobos for Josue Cartagena.

Union Omaha saw more of the possession to start the second half, but the Red Wolves backline did well to prevent a second goal from the visitors. Carlos Avilez would make a couple of key stops in goal to keep the match 0-1 from the 55th to the 65th minute, and the Red Wolves would see another great chance in the 66th minute. Rey Ortiz would deliver another great ball in, and Rafas header went agonizingly over the bar.

The 72nd minute saw another chance created by Rey Ortiz, whipping in a dangerous free kick that Rafa nearly tapped home for the equalizer. Juan Galindrez would come on in the 76

th minute, followed by Pedro Hernandez in the 84th minute. The last chance of the match would fall to Pedro Hernandez in the 90th minute, as Aaron Lombardi whipped in a dangerous cross, but his effort was just wide of the near post. Despite a flurry of late chances, the Red Wolves would fall to defeat 0-1.

The Red Wolves next match will be Saturday, June 11, as the squad travels to take on Central Valley Fuego FC
On Saturday the Uvalde (Texas) School Board declined to punish school police chief Pedro Pete Arredondo for failing to confront a shooter who  during an uninterrupted 80-minute spree  killed 19 people and wounded 17 others at Robb Elementary School. Arredondo has been heavily criticized for his faltering reactions following the May 24 debacle. Investigations by the Texas Department of Public Safety and the U.S. Department of Justice are ongoing.

The 18-year-old gunman, Salvador Ramos, who was finally killed by a Border Patrol tactical team, fired 100 rounds of ammo from an assault rifle but reports that Arredondo didnt have his radio with him and was unaware the captive children were dialing 9-1-1 are chilling, to say the least.

It has been reported Arredondo held as many as 19 police officers back, thinking the shooter was barricading himself, yet the gunfire continued.

Arredondo, age 50, wasnt at Saturdays School Board meeting and, according to the Texas media, is a man in hiding, so little is known about his whereabouts during the tragedy, how he communicated with his officers if indeed he had no radio, or if his hiding is caused by death threats from the grieving South Texas community.

Charlotte Cuthbertson, who is part of the Epoch Times news crew in Uvalde, caught up with retired Border Patrol special operations officer Tim Volesko, who actually trained the tech team that brought the shooter down. Volesko left little doubt the response to an active shooter was botched.

Here is a story that Charlotte filed after the May 24 horror:

* * *

YOU GO TO THE SOUND OF GUNFIRE

By Charlotte Cuthbertson

(NOTE: This story appeared in the Epoch Times on May 28, 2022)

UVALDE, TexasRetired Border Patrol special operations agent Jim Volcsko has trained law enforcement officers in active shooter scenarios.

For years he was part of the Border Patrol tactical unit called BORTAC, similar to a SWAT team, in the Uvalde and Del Rio region. His former colleague, an active BORTAC agent, fatally shot the suspect at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde on May 24.

Volcsko said an active shooter is one of the most dangerous situations a law enforcement officer can face and he didnt want to speculate on the specific situation in Uvalde because he wasnt there, but spoke to his training.

The active shooter training is basically: We show up, and we go. If theres shots being fired, we go, Volcsko told The Epoch Times.

You go to the sound of gunfire. Its not a systematic clearing, its a direct-to-threatthats what its called.

Somebodys going to get shot in these scenariosI mean, thats the whole point of an active shooter. And when you are a law enforcement officer and your job in that situation is to prevent any more innocent people from being wounded or killedthen youve got to go. Hopefully everything turns out OK, but youve got to go.

Texas Department of Public Safety Director Steve McCraw told reporters on May 27 that the incident commander, Uvalde school district Chief of Police Pete Arredondo, made the wrong decision to not engage Texas mass shooter Salvador Ramos sooner. Eighteen-year-old Ramos ended up killing 19 children and two adults in the worst U.S. school mass shooting in a decade.

The on-scene commander (Arredondo) at the time believed that it had transitioned from an active shooter to a barricaded subject, McCraw said.

Emergency call records reveal that several children called 911 during the siege and gunfire could be heard in the background of one call.

Volcsko said active shooter and hostage situations require different responses but his training dictates that in the former scenario law enforcement has to find a way in and neutralize the threat.

If youre met by a hail of gunfire, then youve got to work your way around and figure out another way. If that means you retreat and port a window and go in, OK. The doors are locked, we cant get in, we dont have the tools to get in, well, then weve got to break the windows and go in. Driving a squad car through the side of the building - when you have children being massacred inside of a building who gives a (expletive) about a $50,000 squad car? Drive it through the wall.

Because every shot thats fired is somebody either dying or getting wounded. Youve got to go.

Volcsko reiterated that every scenario is different and he wasnt at the scene in Uvalde.

Every building is different. The amount of civilians that are involved is different. The amount of shooters is different. The reason why the shooter is there is different. The amount of firepower the bad guy has, or bad guys have, is different, he said.

As far as Im concerned, if there was any shooting going on, and there was law enforcement there that failed to act for whatever reason, anybody that was there needs to turn in their badge and their gun, and they need to go away and hope they can live with the deaths of these children. Thats my opinion - not having all the facts.

Im tore up over this. Its terrible.

* * *

We show up, and we go. If theres shots being fired, we go.

royexum@aol.com
ISLAMABAD, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Pakistan's Minister for Climate Change Sherry Rehman said on Sunday that her country stands at the forefront of the global climate emergency, noting that urgent mitigation measures are needed to counter adverse impacts of climate change and protect future generations.

"The effects of climate change and irreversible environmental damage resulting from it will be detrimental for coming generations," the climate change minister said in her message on World Environment Day.

Rehman said Pakistan is one of the few countries in the world to face the severe effects and threats of climate change despite its emissions being less than 1 percent of the global carbon emission.

"We are facing extreme temperatures and severe drought. Our forests are burning, glaciers are melting and rivers are drying up," she said.

The minister described climate change as the greatest problem of the 21st century, saying that the unprecedented impacts of climate change were affecting not only Pakistan but the entire world.

Rehman urged every Pakistani citizen to play a role in the protection of the environment and mother Earth.

"A clean and healthy environment is possible only when every citizen fulfills his national and moral responsibility," she said. 
Cuba Gooding Jr. has been an avid actor since the 80s, and he is still working on productions. The success he found a couple of decades ago led to him having a net worth of millions of dollars. However, his name has made headlines for other reasons.

In recent years, Gooding faced a scandal and went to court over numerous allegations from women. The 2022 trial may have reminded people of his past rolesspecifically, a TV episode regarding consent.

Cuba Gooding Jr. attends Second Act World Premiere at Regal Union Square Theatre, Stadium 14 on December 12, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by John Lamparski/WireImage)

In the years following high school, Gooding turned his attention toward acting. According to his IMDb page, he began his career with guest roles on shows like Better Days in the late 80s. He then appeared in Hill Street Blues and later landed a recurring role in MacGyver.

In 1988, Gooding appeared in CBS Schoolbreak Special. The episode was titled No Means No, and the plot covered the topic of teen date rape. The audience sees the impact of the issue through the lens of a girl and her brother. The message of the special is that people should accept when their partners say no to intimacy. Gooding played a minor character named Paul.

A few years after the special aired, Gooding scored his first major role in Boyz n the Hood. He continued his success with other big projects, like Jerry Maguire, which earned him his Academy Award.

Cuba Gooding Jr. attended a trial over allegations

Actor Cuba Gooding Jr. Pleads Guilty In Groping Case https://t.co/lf1HS5qmob pic.twitter.com/YIKnqpjVqi  Forbes (@Forbes) April 13, 2022

Goodings appearance in the CBS series became somewhat ironic after a scandal broke out. In 2018, the actor found himself involved in a controversy after 15 women accused him of sexual misconduct. One incident at a bar led to charges of forcibly touching.

Several other allegations came to light, but Gooding denied them. However, he eventually pled guilty to a misdemeanor charge of non-consensual contact with women. His admissions occurred during his trial that took place in 2022. Gooding faces a year-long sentence.

According to CNN, Gooding entered an agreement that involves alcohol and behavior modification treatment. The treatment has to continue for six months before he can re-plead for a lesser charge.

Cuba Gooding Jr. entered into a re-pleader today whereby in six months his case will be disposed of with a violation, which is not a crime, resulting in no criminal record, Peter Toumbekis, Goodings lawyer, stated.

Cuba Gooding Jr.s roles that involved the law

Throughout Goodings career, hes appeared in other roles requiring him to take the stand. He portrayed O.J. Simpson in the anthology series American Crime Story. The first season, The People v. O. J. Simpson, dealt with the infamous 90s murder case.

In his heyday, Gooding starred in the thriller A Murder of Crows. He played Lawson Russell, a former lawyer who takes credit for a book he didnt write, only to have everything unravel around him.

In 2007, Gooding appeared in American Gangster. The biographical crime story depicts an outcast cop trying to take down a drug lord in the 70s. The movie bases Goodings character on the real-life crime boss Nicky Barnes.

RELATED: Is Cuba Gooding Jr. Married and How Many Children Does He Have?
The Real Housewives of Potomac original cast member Karen Huger got into an exchange with friend and newcomer Mia Thornton. The back-and-forth happened at a Washington D.C.-based improv club which all of the cast, and a few husbands, attended. Its unclear what sparked the exchange, but it seems to have been resolved, with Huger eventually admitting shes not perfect. Before their interaction, the Grande Dame previously tweeted a cryptic message to her haters, encouraging her followers not to waste your shine on them and stay focused.

RHOP stars Wendy Osefo, Karen Huger, Mia Thornton, and Ashley Darby | Shannon Finney/Getty Images

Karen Huger and Mia Thornton got into an exchange over loyalty during RHOP Season 7

The cast recently appeared at a D.C. improv comedy club together, which was likely filmed for the upcoming season 7. A brief clip shared by The Peach Report Daily on Instagram showed newcomer Mia Thornton speaking to Karen Huger, who was seated on stage with a microphone.

Its unclear how or why the exchange began, but the video starts with Thornton telling Huger that shes not upset but does consider loyalty everything. Huger responded, explaining she is loyal to Thornton because they both own their s***.

So Karen told the girls something that Mia told her in confidence, and Mia called her out on it last night! Season 7 is going to be (everythinghousewives) #RHOP pic.twitter.com/CTuOqGzYvf  jay (@JaysRealityBlog) June 2, 2022

RELATED: RHOP: How Old Is Newcomer Mia Thornton?

The Grande Dame also added, what I said about you was the truth; get over it! which garnered applause and cheering from the audience. Thornton came right back, insisting that communication is key, and asked her not to run and tell these two things that the newcomer told the OG.

Its not clear which two cast members she pointed to, but it may have been Gizelle Bryant and Robyn Dixon as theyre close friends. Huger agreed, admitting shes not perfect, and Thornton accepted, noting, I respect that. More photos showed Ashley Darby, Candiace Dillard, Wendy Osefo, and husbands Gordon, Ray, and Eddie in attendance.

Mia Thornton joined RHOP in season 6

After Monique Samuels left the show following season 5, Thornton joined the cast of The Real Housewives of Potomac, becoming a full-time cast member for season 6.

The health and beauty shop founder, franchise owner, and regional developer married Gordon in 2012, and the couple is raising three kids together; Joshua, Jeremiah, and Juliana.

After graduating from Southeastern Institute with her degree in neuromuscular massage therapy, Thornton began her career as a clinic director in Charlotte, North Carolina.

She then developed several Joint Chiropractic Doctor offices and got into philanthropy. The Thorntons have also sponsored multiple organizations, such as the Ronald McDonald House.

Thornton has already bumped heads with Candiace Dillard

Huger introduced Thornton to the group, describing the franchise owner as a boss and breath of fresh air.

Last season, she opened up about her childhood in foster care and attempts to strengthen her relationship with her mother.

Thornton butt heads with Dillard during her first season when the latter didnt appreciate comments the newcomer made about her music video. Therefore, she began throwing shots at her mother, which Thornton felt hit below the belt.

She also got into it with Bryant a couple of times as the OG cast member voiced her opinions on Gordons flirtatious behavior. The Real Housewives of Potomac airs on Bravo.

RELATED: RHOP Star Candiace Dillard Calls Herself Unsonnable in Cryptic Tweet Ahead of Season 7
Spy x Family Episode 9 focused primarily on Loid and Yor Forger, but the animes next chapter promises to shift back to Anyas storyline. After a tense visit to the Forger household  followed by friction between its patriarch and matriarch  it looks like things are back to normal. Of course, Twilight still needs to work on Operation Strix. A dodgeball game at Eden College could complicate that endeavor. So, whats the release date and time for Spy x Famly Episode 10?

[Warning: Spoilers ahead for Spy x Family Episode 9, Show Off How in Love You Are.]

Spy x Family Episode 9 saw Twilight questioning Yor

Yor and Loid Forger |  Tatsuya Endo/Shueisha, SPY x FAMILY Project

Spy x Family Episode 9 picks up in the middle of Yuris visit, with him demanding that Yor and Loid kiss to prove theyre really married. They almost do, but Yors brother changes his mind at the last minute. His belligerent behavior earns him a few slaps from his sister before he departs. And although Loid attempts to keep things cordial  friendly, even  Yuri vows to expose their union as a lie.

Thats an ominous place to leave things, especially since Loid and Yor are being dishonest. Fortunately, Loid already knows that Yuri is part of the secret police. In Show Off How in Love You Are, he embraces his Twilight persona fully, even investigating whether Yor is trying to spy on him as well.

His efforts turn up nothing unusual, and the Forgers are back to normal by the time the episode ends. It looks like Spy x Family Episode 10 will shift focus back to Anya on its release date. When exactly is that?

The cutest couple pic.twitter.com/wkmH4x5M0T  SPY x FAMILY (@spyfamily_en) June 4, 2022

Its been a while since fans got an update on Anya and Damian, but Spy x Family Episode 10 promises to change that when its release date arrives. So, when do new installments come out?

New episodes of Spy x Family Season 1 debut every Saturday, broadcasting first in Japan and coming to streaming platforms shortly after. The Japanese broadcast typically takes place at 11 p.m. JST, with the anime arriving on Crunchyroll and Hulu at the following times:

PST: 8:30 a.m.

CST: 10:30 a.m.

EST: 11:30 a.m.

GMT: 3:30 p.m.

CEST: 5:30 p.m.

AEST: 1:30 a.m.

Judging by the preview for the next episode, things could get heated at Eden College  and that will likely have larger implications for Twilight and his mission.

The preview for episode 10 returns to Anya and Damian

RELATED: Spy x Family Predictions: The Anime Will Pit Yor Against Twilight

Now that we know the release date for Spy x Family Episode 10, what can fans expect from it? The brief preview for the coming episode teases a return to Eden College. It looks like Anya and Damian will find themselves playing a game of dodgeball. And with Operation Strix in the works, even thats likely to be a big deal.

Its hard to say if theyll be on opposing teams or not, but it looks like things get heated either way. Hopefully, this doesnt set Twilights plans back even further (but if were being honest, it probably will).

With Anya and Damians relationship already on shaky ground, this chapter could prove a turning point  for better of for worse. Its not one fans will want to miss. So, how can they catch the latest installment when it drops?

How to watch the next chapter when it hits Crunchyroll and Hulu

Rainy day with the Forgers  pic.twitter.com/9IB8o1Ctcu  SPY x FAMILY (@spyfamily_en) June 4, 2022

International viewers hoping to catch Spy x Family Episode 10 on its release date will need a Crunchyroll or Hulu subscription to do so. Fortunately, those this far into the series probably already have one.

If not, Crunchyroll premium subscriptions begin at $7.99 per month, with increases for plans with additional features. Meanwhile, Hulu charges $6.99 per month for its plan with ads and $12.99 per month for its ad-free option.

Both streaming services provide an outlet to watch anime on, including Spy x Family. Wherever fans choose to tune in, theyre probably in for more entertaining antics.

Spy x Family Episode 10 arrives on June 11, 2022.

For more on the entertainment world and exclusive interviews, subscribe to Showbiz Cheat Sheets YouTube channel.

RELATED: 5 Anime to Watch If You Like Spy x Family
In Stranger Things Season 4, Will, Jonathan, Mike, and Argyle take a trip to visit Dustins girlfriend Suzie Bingham. The boys need the help of an expert computer hacker, and according to Dustin, Suzie is pretty much a genius. While there, the gang meets Suzies sister Eden. Heres everything you need to know about the actor who plays her.

Finn Wolfhard as Mike Wheeler, Gabriella Pizzolo as Suzie, Noah Schnapp as Will Byers, and Charlie Heaton as Jonathan Byers in Stranger Things Season 4 | Netflix

Mike and the Byers boys visit Suzie in Stranger Things Season 4

Dustins girlfriend Suzie returned in Stranger Things Season 4. Mike, Will, Dustin, and Argyle traveled to her home in Salt Lake City, Utah in episode 6. The group needed the help of an experienced hacker to find their way to the Nina Project using only a phone number that connected them to a computer.

When they arrived at Suzies home, the boys were in for quite a surprise. It turns out that Suzie has a ton of siblings who were running around playing various games. Suzies older sister Eden made an appearance to chastise Cornelius for shutting the power off.

Argyle was immediately smitten with her and she pointed the boys in the direction of Suzies room. Eden then expressed annoyance that Suzie wasnt helping her babysit. Later, Eden and Argyle smoked weed together in Argyles pizza delivery van.

Audrey Holcomb plays Eden in Stranger Things Season 4 Episode 6

Audrey Holcomb portrays Suzies older sister Eden in Stranger Things Season 4 Episode 6. According to her Backstage profile, Holcomb is a 21-year-old actor from Atlanta, GA. Her acting credits on IMDb include a handful of short film roles since 2015. Holcomb wrote on Instagram that she acted alongside her little brother in the short film Colt 45, which was directed by her friend Peter B. Samuels.

Holcomb also had a small role in a TV series documentary called Murder Calls in 2017. Landing a role in a show as popular as Stranger Things will definitely put this young actors name on the map. She is currently set to appear in the film American Cherry, which will debut in 2023.

Why does Suzie have so many siblings?

In Stranger Things Season 4, fans learned that Suzie has a lot of siblings. Screen Rant proposed the most likely explanation. Outside Suzies house, Mike mentions that her family is really religious. In season 3, Dustin told his friends that Suzies parents are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints aka Mormons.

According to Screen Rant, Mormon doctrine has historically led to an opposition to birth control and important leaders in the Mormon church openly opposed the use of birth control in the 1960s and 1970s. This naturally leads to families having more children. In total, there appeared to be at least nine children in the Bingham household.

Stranger Things is currently streaming on Netflix.

RELATED: Stranger Things 4: Who is Joseph Quinn and His Character, Eddie Munson?
The Chi is returning for a fifth season on Showtime and the trailer reveals the forthcoming installment may be one of its best. But one star of the show noticeably absent is Jasmine Davis. Davis starred in the show for two seasons and reportedly left due to not agreeing with the shows direction, as well as citing an unhealthy work environment. But insiders say she actually lied about being vaccinated against the coronavirus.

Jasmine Davis 2022 | Paul Archuleta/Getty Images

She previously hinted that it had to do with Disneys involvement in the show

Davis exit came as a surprise to fans as her role on the show was one of a co-lead. She made the announcement in a Tweet. Due to the many inquiries Im officially announcing. I will not be in season 5 of @SHOTheChi and I will no longer be part of #thechi/#disneyproduction. Sending a BIG THANKS to all of my family and supporters/fans who have embraced me with along this journey. #selfworth she wrote. One fan asked the reason behind her departure on Instagram, to which the star responded: The reasons will be discussed at a later time, hinting to the choice to be not one that was amicable.

Source: YouTube

In a later tweet, Davis referenced individuals who pretended to be allies to the LGBTQ+ community but later reveal they are not. Shes been on the show since Season 3 as the love interest to Luke James character Trig.

Disney owns 20th Television, which is involved in the production and/or distribution of The Chi, which is a part of Disneys television division. The call-out to Disney from Davis may have something to do with the companys initial quiet stance on Floridas controversial Dont Say Gay Bill. The bill prohibits public school teachers from discussing their gender or sexuality in classrooms.

Jasmine Davis reportedly faked a COVID-19 vaccination card

As it turns out, Davis acrimonious exit has little to do with being in a toxic work environment that she referenced recently and more to do with her not wanting to comply with work orders. A source tells Page Six that they learned David presented a false vaccination card.

Jasmine asked for a vaccination exemption when she submitted a vaccination card for the prior season, said an insider. This triggered an investigation and Jasmine then quit the show.

In a Tweet sent from Davis prior to Page Sixs report, she spoke about being in an unhealthy work environment. 4 2 years [sic] Ive been bullied 4 being on a show that was kind of a nightmare & the moment I clap back Instagram flag my comment as harassing them for trying to harass me on my page its unfair how they can come on my page and say whatever with no consequences, she Tweeted per the report.

But the insider says Davis is a disgruntled former employee. All of Jasmines comments are simply retaliatory.

The actor came out as a trans woman on the show

Davis exit came as a shock and saddened many viewers as her role on the show was history-making. It was the first role that Davis made her trans status known. Prior to this, she admitted to passing as a cis-gendered woman in her career.

Ive always been open with my close friends or any lover that I had, she told EBONY Magazine in a recent interview. But as far as general society was concerned, it was like, its not your businessIm glad that I am living my truth, she states. I am glad that I can inspire others to be whatever they want to be and Im glad that I can represent my LGBTQ+ community and just my Black community in general.

RELATED: The Chi Star Jasmine Davis on Hiding Her Trans Status as an Actor Before Her Role on the Show
Jessica Alba and Cash Warren have been together since 2004, making theirs one of Hollywoods longest marriages. The pair tied the knot secretly without inviting anyone from either side. Although they didnt speak about it immediately, the celebrities pulled back the veil on their nuptials, with Warren calling the wedding laughably awkward.

Jessica Alba and Cash Warren got married in 2008

Actress Jessica Alba and Cash Warren arrive at the Los Angeles premiere of Sin City: A Dame To Kill For at TCL Chinese Theatre on August 19, 2014 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic)

Alba and Warren met in 2004 on the set of Fantastic Four. Alba had already cultivated a reputation as a solid star, garnering several leading roles. She played Sue Storm in the superhero movie, while Warren worked as a production assistant.

When they met, Alba was in a relationship. But after setting her eyes on her future husband, the actor immediately fell for Warren. A year after meeting him, Alba even gushed to Cosmopolitan about him. He might be The One, she said. I cared about him so much right away and I already wanted him to be around forever.

During the early years of their marriage, the pair struggled with Albas status as a public figure. Reports stated that Warren worked to fit into her mold and didnt particularly enjoy the nickname he earned from the media. Although they proclaimed their love for one another, the pair called it quits after two years of dating.

Judging by their marriage today, the couple didnt stay broken up for too long. By December of 2007, news broke that Alba was pregnant. Soon after, the pair announced their engagement. In May 2008, People reported the couple had tied the knot ahead of the birth of their first child.

Albas rep told the publication that the pair went to the Beverly Hills courthouse and had the ceremony under an arch of green silk foliage and white flowers. The source further noted that Alba had her hair in a ponytail and wore a long blue dress, while Warren wore a white shirt and brown pants. After applying for a marriage license, the pair only had to wait 40 minutes before getting hitched.

Jessica Albas husband called the wedding laughably awkward

https://www.instagram.com/p/BxqGVMjHQ3G/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Many celebrities have big weddings full of fellow stars and many trimmings. But the Machete star proposed she and Warren get married on a whim.

Although the pair didnt speak publicly about their wedding at the time, Warren opened up about it years later via an Instagram post. In 2019, he went online to wish his wife a happy anniversary. Instead of taking the standard poetic walk down memory lane, the producer went with honesty.

It wasnt the dream wedding you deserved, Warren wrote to his wife. In fact, it was laughably awkward. Standing under an arch of dusty plastic flowers in the courthouse chapel, we held hands and said, I Do. No friend or family in attendanceJust you, me, and the courthouse employee who served as our witness.

Jessica Alba initiated the quickie wedding

Alba corroborated Warrens recollection of events on The Late Late Show with James Corden. She told the talk show host that she woke up one day and asked him if he had any meetings that day. When he said no, she asked him, Should we get married? As it turns out, Warren was more than happy to marry the love of his life.

Like her husband, Alba joked a bit about the scenario. The Dark Angel actor explained they were already engaged at that point, but the real focus for her wasnt on the wedding itself  it was about getting food from iconic Beverly Hills deli Nate n Als after. I knew we could get hitched quickly  you know, sign some papers and do the thing, she laughed. I just didnt want to be rushed through my crispy bacon drowned in buttered pancakes situation.

RELATED: Jessica Alba Reveals She Struggles With Letting Her Kids Make Mistakes: Hardest Part About Being a Parent
Fresh-picked strawberries are shown. U.S. and Canadian regulators are investigating a hepatitis outbreak that may be linked to fresh organic strawberries.
Boris Johnson reads from Philippians at Platinum Jubilee honoring Queen Elizabeth's reign

Facing calls to resign over a national COVID-19 lockdown scandal, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson read from the Bible at a royal event Friday with former British leaders in attendance.

Johnson was booed as he and his wife, Carrie, arrived at St. Paul's Cathedral for the service of thanksgiving for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee, one of several events being held in London marking the Queen's 70-year reign.

While Johnson did not visibly react to the booing, the BBC and other media outlets noted the chilly reception.

Labour MP Karl Turner shared video footage of Johnson's arrival on social media.

"Our Prime Minister of our great country. The greatest country on earth being booed at the platinum jubilee of Her [Majesty] the Queen," Turner tweeted. "What a great shame he's brought to the great office of Prime Minister."

Once inside the cathedral, Johnson read from Philippians 4:8, which states: "Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable  think about these things."

More than 400 people attended the service, including former prime ministers David Cameron and Tony Blair, the Times UK reported.

Queen Elizabeth, 96, skipped the service due to health issues after reportedly experiencing "some discomfort" after attending events on Thursday.

Johnson has faced calls to resign following multiple reports that he and other members of the ruling Tory party held several parties at 10 Downing Street during the nation's strict COVID-19 lockdown.

The crowd's reception could signal some tough sledding for Johnson ahead of a potential confidence vote over the scandal as early as next week.

In a Times interview last July, Johnson hailed Christianity as "a superb ethical system" but added that he would count himself "as a kind of very, very bad Christian."

When asked to respond to reports that a friend described the prime minister as holding to a "pre-Christian morality system with a multitude of gods and no clear set of rules," Johnson replied: "Christianity is a superb ethical system and I would count myself as a kind of very, very bad Christian.

"No disrespect to any other religions, but Christianity makes a lot of sense to me."

When he was asked at last year's G7 summit whether he was a practicing Catholic, Johnson initially balked at a response.

But after being told that Labour Party leader Keir Starmer said the prime minister did not believe in God, Johnson promptly quoted Psalm 14:1, which says, "The fool has said there is no God."

Johnson  who was baptized a Catholic but was twice married as an Anglican before his third marriage to Carrie Symonds  also took part in a Bible reading project for the King James Bible Trust in 2011.

The prime minister read from Isaiah 11. He called the King James version the "single most beautiful and influential work of English literature."
Being Christian when civilization collapses

If it seems as if the world is falling apart thats because, in some very real ways, it is.

The news has been relentless, for a while now, but especially these past two weeks. After multiple mass shootings, the nation is grieving. People are angry that nothing seems to change.

According to the FBI, theres been a 50% uptick in active shooting incidents since last year, and thats not counting the shooting that left 21 dead in Uvalde, Texas. The two attacks (in Buffalo and Uvalde) are not outliers, announced National Public Radio. Mass shootings happen in the U.S. with depressing regularity. According to their count, 213 so far this year.

A variety of things and people are being blamed: access to guns, social isolation, politicians, talk show hosts, authorities, harmful ideas, and more. Behind events this tragic are a number of contributing factors. At the same time, we can no longer think of mass shootings as isolated incidents. They must be understood as indications of social breakdown, along with spiking rates of addiction, overdoses, violent crime, suicide, sexual confusion, and even airplane incidents.

Last week, a friend reminded me of some insightful words from Chuck Colson. One can easily imagine Chuck Colson extending a similar analysis to todays issues, The problem is not gun control, poverty, talk-show hosts, or race. The problem is the breakdown of moral values in American life, and our culture simply cannot respond.

In fact, Chuck Colson is not the only thinker to have pointed to the inevitabilities of cultural breakdown. Great civilizations are not murdered, wrote historian Arnold Toynbee. They commit suicide. In other words, civilizations do not last forever, and there are rules that determine whether or not they have a future.

At the recent Wilberforce Weekend, author and social critic Os Guinness stated that we are living in a civilizational moment:

All the great civilizations reach a moment when theyre out of touch with the inspiration that made them. And theres a critical transition moment when they either go towards renewal or down to decline.

We are at such a moment, if not already past it. For example, a civilization cannot survive if it is not preparing for the future. The dual modern realities of debt, both individually and nationally, and demographics, especially the collapse of birth rates below replacement levels, indicate that as a people we live more for immediate gratification than a strong tomorrow.

Of course, in an ultimately meaningless world, there is no sense of tomorrow. And increasingly, studies reveal that our culture suffers from a catastrophic loss of meaning. This only makes sense for a culture already detached from ultimate categories of truth and identity, but that doesnt make life here any easier.

At the same time, life, even at a time of cultural collapse, does not come to an end. People are born and die. They gather; they buy and sell; they create and invent. Civilizational collapse is never sudden, but almost always extends over decades and even centuries.

What can we do if a civilization is disintegrating around us?

First, we must remember that although the challenges of this cultural moment are real, they are never the whole story. The whole story is, instead, the story centered on the person and work of Christ, the Creator, Sustainer, and Redeemer of the cosmos. The ending of that story is sure, despite the chaos of the moment.

Second, rather than withdraw from the challenges around us, we continue to give whatever good we can to the world. William Wilberforce, for example, not only lobbied against the slave trade but also fought to advance moral values in a corrupt nation. Our best efforts may not succeed, but thats not why we do it. We do it out of love for God and neighbor.

Third, we must reject small compromises. Hannah Arendt wrote about the banality of evil, how in certain cultural moments, evil advances in mundane and seemingly harmless ways. Solomon is an example of this. The last half of 1 Kings 10 reads like a ledger of his remarkable success: extravagant wealth, imported horses and chariots from Egypt, and 700 wives (with accompanying military alliances and treaties).

However, Deuteronomy 17 records that, years before, Moses had instructed the Israelites about what their king should not do:

He must not acquire many horses for himself or cause the people to return to Egypt in order to acquire many horses, since the Lord has said to you, You shall never return that way again. And he shall not acquire many wives for himself, lest his heart turn away, nor shall he acquire for himself excessive silver and gold.

The author of the Book of Kings knew exactly what he was doing presenting Solomons success as he did. His telling of the exploits of Solomon was in a way Israelite readers would understand.

Now, whether were in a time of decline or a time of amazing success like Solomon, the same response is required from Gods people. We must be faithful to what He asks us to do, to what He asks us to believe, and to how He instructs us to live.

In all of these things, we take up life in this moment as part of our calling. We are here because it is the time and in place He ordained for us. And so we move forward, keeping our eyes on the One who perfects and finishes our faith, Who will bring history to its final culmination.
Does my giving reflect my love for God?

One of the strongest calls for revival by God anywhere in Scripture is: Yet from the days of your fathers you have gone away from My ordinances and have not kept them. Return to Me and I will return to you, says the Lord of hosts. But you said, in what way shall we return? Will a man rob God? Yet you have robbed Me! But you say, in what way have we robbed You? In tithes and offerings (Malachi 3:7,8, NKJV).

It may be a shocking thing to see God's greatest cry for His people to return to Him. He examined their tithing as an indicator of where they were spiritually. Many a preacher through the years has rightly said, If you want to see how real a man's faith is, take a look at his bank account. God was doing exactly that! In this case, in 430 BC Israel was in a 100-year spiritual decline and God, through the prophet Malachi, put His finger on one of the main problems. They were stealing Gods tithe!

I'm sure that almost every believer reading this article has struggled with the practice of tithing at some point in their lives. It is easy to walk into your church and see the beauty, which is the result of all the expenditures on a building that appears to only be used once or twice a week. On occasion, an off-hour walk through the building can reveal lights being left on, air conditioning, or heat operated at levels that seem extreme to you. If you are a member, once a year you sit through a business meeting where you see the totals of giving income, the pastoral staff salaries, and sometimes even a large chunk of money being held aside for unforeseen incidentals.



It is easy for questions to creep in regarding how much of your money your church really needs, and start to mentally justify cutting back on your giving.

Although tithes do go to support the expenses of the local church, the main point of tithing is extremely important and goes deep into the very center of a believers worship of God. The argument that Jesus never instructed His disciples to tithe is well known. However, He did say that the Scribes and Pharisees tithed, and that I say unto you, that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the Scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the Kingdom of Heaven (Matthew 5:20, NKJV).

In Hebrews 7 the author wrote about a very important biblical figure named Melchizedek, King of Salem. Melchizedeks story, first told in Genesis 14, describes this mysterious figure who has no parents and is without descent, having neither beginning of days nor end of life. Genesis tells us that upon returning from the slaughter of the pagan kings, Abraham gave one-tenth of all the spoils to Melchizedek. The author of Hebrews wanted to focus on the practice of giving tithes directly to God, Himself meeting the needs of the local church but implemented through the priesthood. Tithing did not start with the Law of God and did not end with the New Covenant!

In my opinion, tithing predates the law and goes back to Abraham, using the example of honoring God by giving to Melchizedek.

I believe that one of the greatest pieces of evidence that remain to this day that a person has been truly revived and or truly born again is that they cheerfully begin to give to Gods work. Are you praying that kind of prayer? God, I want to return to you with all of my heart. Do not be surprised if He points you to the income that He has given you and asks for a very unique form of worship; worshipping Him by giving back to His Kingdom through your local church.
RAMALLAH, June 4 (Xinhua) -- French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday called for an end to the violent escalation between the Israelis and the Palestinians and urged the two sides to move toward a peaceful resolution.

Macron made the remarks in a phone conversation with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to discuss ending the growing tension in the Palestinian territories, the official Palestinian news agency WAFA reported.

Macron called on both sides to avoid tensions and move to initiatives that would lead to a political horizon to facilitate peace and stability in the region. He also invited Abbas to visit Paris.

Abbas said that the current situation in the Palestinian territories cannot be tolerated, criticizing Israel for not following its commitments to the signed peace agreements.

Tension between the Israelis and the Palestinians has been flaring over the past weeks as a series of Palestinian attacks set off almost daily raids by Israel to arrest suspects in the West Bank. The tension was further fueled by clashes at the holy Al-Aqsa mosque compound in East Jerusalem.

The Palestinians have been seeking to establish an independent state on the Palestinian territories seized by Israel in the June 1967 Middle East War, including the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, with East Jerusalem as its capital. 
Why Christians need to know and pray for the Igbos in Nigeria

The Igbo nation whose origin has been traced to the Jews has been in bondage since the amalgamation of Nigeria in 1914. They have been marginalized, enslaved, and murdered in large numbers for no just cause but simply because they are Christians. They were the victims of the Nigerian civil war.

The Nigerian civil war took place between the government of Nigeria headed by General Yakubu Gowon and the secessionist state of Biafra, led by Lt. Colonel Odumegwu Ojukwu from July 6, 1967 to January 15, 1970. Biafra represented the nationalist aspirations of the Igbo people, whose leadership felt they could no longer coexist with the northern-dominated federal government. The conflict resulted from political, economic, ethnic, cultural, and religious tensions that led to the massacre of hundreds of thousands of people of Igbos.

The origin of the Igbos can be traced to Israel. Eri was the ancestral father of the Igbos who is also the fifth son of Gad, the seventh son of Jacob (Genesis 46: 15-18, Numbers 26:16-18). Many communities in Igbo land derived their names from this ancestral father. To believe that the Igbos are one of the lost tribes of Israel sounds ridiculous to some people, but upon factual evidence, one might pause to consider the veracity of this claim. Apart from the story of how the Igbos came into being, there are other similarities between them and the biblical Israelites. For example, they also celebrate the new moon, circumcision on the eighth day, mourning the dead for seven days, and many more.

The first attempt of the Igbos to leave was met with stiff resistance by the Nigerian government. Some Igbos believe that Mazi Nnamdi Kanu  the leader of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB)  is the Moses of the Igbos of this generation. They are claiming that God has sent him to tell the present-day pharaoh of Nigeria let my people go.

At a meeting in Abia State in January 2021, leaders of the Southeast unanimously expressed dismay that the Igbos region had continuously been denied the presidency. They said that there was no better time to actualize the Igbo presidency than 2023. The ruling party  the All Progressive Congress  plans to organize its presidential primary soon and everyone knows where the presidential flag bearer will come from.

Christians are disgusted with what is happening in Nigeria and are demanding equity and justice. Some say that Nigeria, as a nation, is a marriage of so many strange bedfellows who were forcefully married by colonial masters with the hope that one day unity in diversity might be achieved. Unfortunately, this marriage has collapsed due to the opposition of those who think that they are born to rule while others are born to be enslaved.

The Igbo tribe has committed no crime. Its only alleged crime is being predominantly Christian. Its Jewish character and culture have made it the envy of other tribes. Antisemitism has to a large extent been extended to the Igbo nation, and this has manifested in police brutality and a military invasion of the southeastern part of Nigeria.

Recently, the prelate of the Nigerian Methodist Church, His Eminence Samuel Uche, has reported that the Fulani herdsmen who kidnapped him said they were aiming to take over Igbo land. Uche spoke at a press conference held at a Methodist church on May 31, saying, They told us that after buying enough weapons, they were going to bring all those people that were driven away from Zamfara, Katsina, Sambisa Forest, that they are all coming to locate themselves in Igbo land and deal with us.

This "lost tribe of Israel" is not only facing marginalization. There is an active ethnic cleansing agenda planned against them. I passionately ask that intercession be made on their behalf by Christians all over the world. God who delivered the Israelites from the Egyptians; He can do likewise for the Igbos.
Methodist theologians sign statement to retrieve the riches of Wesleyan tradition amid UMC schism

A group of over 60 theologians, professors and clergy have signed onto a statement of faith aimed at helping to solidify the identity of the Methodist movement at a time when the world's largest Methodist denomination is facing a schism over sexuality.

Titled The Faith Once Delivered: A Wesleyan Witness, the document came out of a gathering of around 50 Christian scholars at the Next Methodism Summit held in January in Alexandria, Virginia.

The document, which takes its name from Jude 1:3, states in its introduction that it aims to guide the theological trajectory of Methodism for the next century or more.

It is nothing less than a robust affirmation of the historic Christian faith and the particular gifts of the Wesleyan movement within the larger Church, the introduction reads.

The document is divided into six sections. The first section focuses on the attributes of God. The second section is centered on the image of God and creation. The third section focuses on Scripture and its authority. The fourth section touches on the nature of salvation. The fifth section focuses on the Church, and the final section is mostly focused on the End Times.

Kevin Watson, acting director of the Wesley House of Studies of George W. Truett Theological Seminary at Baylor University and pastor of discipleship at First Methodist Church of Waco, Texas, served as an assisting editor for the document.

In an interview with The Christian Post, Watson said that he participated in the January gathering and crafting of the document because he believes the Wesleyan-Methodist tradition needs to retrieve the riches of its own doctrinal heritage.

I believe many parts of the Wesleyan-Methodist tradition are experiencing a crisis of identity. We have forgotten who we are. We have lost the treasure the Lord has entrusted to us and our nerve to spread Scriptural holiness, said Watson.

I was encouraged to see more than 60 scholars share the same concern and willingness to invest themselves in a contemporary restatement of the core beliefs of the Wesleyan theological tradition.

Watson believes The Faith Once Delivered was different from other statements of faith because of its range of contributors and the timing of the release of the document.

This document is not seeking to speak a new word in support of a current cultural moment. Rather, it is seeking to retrieve the basics of the faith that has already been given to us, he continued.

Receiving the faith that has already been given to us is the key first step to seeking to discern what faithfulness looks like in the present.

Bishop Scott Jones, head of the Texas Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church, led one of the working groups at the January gathering and reviewed drafts of the document.

Jones told CP that he believes the document articulates a bold future for Wesleyan Christianity and that it will help people make decisions about where God is leading this part of the Christian movement.

I hope leaders read it and think more clearly about who Methodists are called to be and how God can use us for His purposes, Jones added.

Lane Davis, an ordained elder in the UMC Tennessee-Western Kentucky Conference, served on the sub-drafting group that wrote Section 4 of the document, titled "Salvation: The Image Restored.

Davis told CP that many people, including himself, see a revival beginning in churches of the Wesleyan tradition, but revivals need strong theological foundations to last.

There are many of us that we have those foundations in the doctrinal documents of Methodism. I signed The Faith Once Delivered because I believe it is a faithful, concise, summation of those core Wesleyan tenets, he said.

The document comes as the UMC, the largest Methodist denomination globally, is facing a schism over its decades-long debate over homosexuality.

Although the UMC Book of Discipline officially labels homosexuality incompatible with Christian teaching, many theologically liberal church leaders have refused to enforce rules associated with that stance.

On May 1, a theologically conservative alternative to the UMC, known as the Global Methodist Church, was officially launched, with manycongregations making efforts to join it.

Davis believed that at least one component of why the United Methodist Church finds itself on the brink of schism was a lack of knowledge of the traditions of the Methodist movement.

The Wesleyan tradition has a rich theological and doctrinal heritage, and yet Methodists as a whole have not done a great job of communicating and forming our congregations in the particulars of that tradition, he said.

Watson said a distinction needs to be made between the formal teaching of the Church and what is happening on the ground in reality across United Methodism.

The UMCs official statements of doctrine  the Articles of Religion, Confession of Faith, Wesleys Sermons, and the General Rules  are in harmony with this document, Watson said.

The challenge is that over the past decades, a gap has opened up between official teaching and actual practice in the UMC. Adherence to The Faith Once Delivered would vary widely across the breadth of the UMC, particularly within the United States.
Naason Joaquin Garcia pleads guilty to sexually abusing 3 children

Days ahead of trial and after his lawyers claimed he is 100% innocent, Naason Joaquin Garcia, the leader of a Mexico-based megachurch, has pleaded guilty to multiple felony counts of sexual assault involving three separate minors, according to California state prosecutors.

The 53-year-old leader of the Guadalajara-based church La Luz del Mundo (Light of the World) filed the guilty plea three days before the trial was to begin, Reuters reported, citing a statement from the California attorney generals office.

The former preacher pleaded guilty to two counts of forcible oral copulation involving minors and one count of a lewd act upon a child, the newswire said, adding that a co-defendant, Susana Medina Oaxaca, also pleaded guilty to a charge of assault likely to cause great bodily harm.

Attorney General Robert Andres Bonta called the conviction a clear message that sexual exploitation is never acceptable in California.

We will hold you accountable if you break the law, he was quoted as saying by Fox 11.

As the leader of La Luz del Mundo, Naason Joaquin Garcia used his power to take advantage of children. He relied on those around him to groom congregants for the purposes of sexual assault. Todays conviction can never undo the harm, but it will help protect future generations.

Another co-defendant, Alondra Ocampo, pleaded guilty two years ago to three felony counts of contact with a minor for purposes of committing a sexual offense and one count of forcible sexual penetration.

The three had faced 36 felony offenses, including charges of rape, human trafficking and child pornography but most of those counts were dropped in exchange for the guilty pleas.

Garcia, who faces up to 16 years and eight months in prison, is scheduled to be sentenced Wednesday morning.

The former megachurch leader was arrested in the summer of 2019 at the Los Angeles International Airport. He and several co-defendants were charged with human trafficking, production of child pornography, forcible rape of a minor and other felonies committed between 2015 and 2019.

A group of girls was allegedly told that if they went against Garcias desires, they were going against God, according to the criminal complaint.

On March 15, Garcias defense attorney Alan Jackson and his team had argued in a 211-page motion that the case brought against Garcia was based on fabricated evidence.

In their motion, Garcias defense team said they reviewed more than 70,000 texts messages and that some of Garcias accusers were sexually active, angst-filled teenagers who lied, shoplifted, used drugs, drank alcohol, struggled with mental health and spoke of having sex with the church leader for money.

In a statement posted on his churchs Facebook page at the time, the megachurch pastors followers professed his innocence, stating: We have full confidence that the time will come when the innocence and honorability of the Apostle of Jesus Christ, Naason Joaquin, will be demonstrated, because the lie prevails only until the truth comes to light.
Historic 16th century Ukrainian monastery burns to ground after shelling by Russian forces

A 16th century Orthodox monastery has been burned to the ground after shelling by Russian artillery in eastern Ukraine, says Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, but Russian media and supporters claim Ukrainian nationalists set it ablaze, as Moscows ongoing invasion carries on for more than 100 days.,

The wooden structure of All Saints Monastery of the Svyatogorsk Lavra, which is located in Gorlovka city in Donetsk region and belongs to the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate, was set ablaze Saturday after a series of targeted shelling by Russian forces, Fox News reported.

On his official Telegram channel, Zelenskyy posted a video of the burning monastery, saying, Russian artillery struck  and destroyed All Saints Monastery, the Qatari government-run news agency Al Jazeera said.

The Ukrainian president also said Russia should be expelled from the United Nations cultural agency UNESCO. Every church burned by Russia in Ukraine, every school blown up, every destroyed memorial proves that Russia has no place in UNESCO.

The monastery lies near Russian positions in eastern Donetsk, which the Kremlin is focused on capturing.

There were about 300 refugees, about 60 children. Racists continue to prove inability to be part of the civilized world, wrote Tkachenko Oleksandr, the minister of culture and information policy of Ukraine, on Twitter, adding that 133 religious buildings in Ukraine had suffered from Russia.

Oleksandr told media that when the Russians destroy Ukrainian heritage, they dont care whether these are their [spiritual sites] or not, they just destroy them.

Ukraine World, an English-language media outlet, wrote, Earlier this week several monks & nuns were killed in the Russian shelling of the monastery. Is this friendly fire, a part of denazification?

Agatha Gorski, the Ukrainian journalist who was the first to report on the fire, wrote on Twitter, The Lavra dates back to the 1500s. Second time Russia shells it. This is yet another act of Russian barbarism. For them, nothing is sacred.

However, the Russian government-run network RT blamed the burning down of the monastery on civil conflict in eastern Ukraine, saying that the Donetsk region is the site of ongoing bloody confrontations between Kievs military and self-defense troops.

Several other churches have sustained damage since the beginning of the bloody conflict in east Ukraine. Five clerics have been killed, the channel said, adding that Russias Orthodox Church has called on Kiev authorities to provide safety for clerics and shrines, urging them not to allow the civil conflict to develop a religious dimension.

Russias defense ministry has also claimed that Ukrainian troops set fire to the monastery, according to Al Jazeera.

The setting ablaze of the monastery is likely to deepen the rift in the ecumenical relations between Ukraine and Russia.

Since Russia began its invasion on Feb. 24, at least 4,183 civilians have been killed and 5,014 injured as of a Friday update from the U.N. Among those killed are 268 children.

Russia's President Vladimir Putins invasion of Ukraine was condemned by nearly 300 Russian Orthodox leaders in an open letter issued in March.

We mourn the ordeal to which our brothers and sisters in Ukraine were undeservedly subjected, the Russian Orthodox clerics wrote in their open letter. The Last Judgment awaits every person.

No earthly authority, no doctors, no guards will protect from this judgment. Concerned about the salvation of every person who considers himself a child of the Russian Orthodox Church, we do not want him to appear at this judgment, bearing the heavy burden of mothers curses.

Moscow Patriarch Kirill, an ally of Putins, has been accused of lending religious justification for the invasion, although countless religious leaders have called for him to condemn the violence.

Over 400 ministers of Evangelical churches in Russia have also called for reconciliation and an immediate end to Russias ongoing invasion of Ukraine.

The Orthodox Public Affairs Committee, which advocates on behalf of the global Orthodox Christian Church, said in an earlier statement that Kirills words enable Putin by giving religious cover to this unconscionable and unjustified conflict.

Kirills statements ring hollow and have the stench of direct government interference, the OPAC statement shared with The Christian Post reads. Is this because he owes his position and the lucrative benefits he receives to Vladimir Putin? Why does he not speak out for his Ukrainian Flock? Why does he endorse the Russian military, even presenting them with a holy icon?
State Dept. condemns Russia's 'appalling destruction of religious sites' in Ukraine

The U.S. ambassador-at-large for international religious freedom has accused Russia of engaging in the "suppression of religious leaders" and condemned its military forces' "appalling destruction of religious sites" in Ukraine during the State Department's release of its annual report documenting the state of religious freedom worldwide.

The U.S. State Department released the 2021 International Religious Freedom Report Thursday. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said at a press conference in the State Department's Benjamin Franklin Room Thursday that the report offers a "thorough, fact-based review of the state of religious freedom in nearly 200 countries and territories around the world."

The State Department has published a report on international religious freedom every year since 1998 as part of its requirements under the International Religious Freedom Act. This year's report is over 2,000 pages long.

U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom Rashad Hussain highlighted three key themes that summarized the findings in the document.

He said the report revealed that "too many governments use discriminatory laws and policies and abuse their own people," listing China and Burma as examples of countries that have engineered "genocides of religious minority communities in recent years." He warned that "rising societal intolerance and hatred are fueling violence and conflict around the world."

Hussain lamented that Russia, which the department recognizes as a country of particular concern for tolerating or engaging in egregious violations of religious freedom, has "doubled down on its violations of religious freedom rather than reverse course."

"Russian courts regularly reach new milestones for excessive prison sentences against individuals exercising their religious freedom," he said.

Hussain condemned Russia's "unprovoked and unjustified invasion of Ukraine" that began in February. He said the invasion includes the "suppression of religious leaders and the appalling destruction of religious sites."

"Russian authorities carry out hundreds of home raids against suspected extremists that frequently include violence," he added.

Blinken criticized governments that "continue to use blasphemy and apostasy laws" banning defamation and renunciation of religion "to police the language of religious minorities."

"Others curtail expressions of religious belief like restrictions on religious attire," he said. "In all societies, including our own and across Europe, we must do more to combat rising forms of hate including anti-Semitism and anti-Muslim sentiment."

"In March, based on extensive legal review of the evidence, I made the determination that Burma's military committed genocide and crimes against humanity with the intent to destroy [the] predominantly Muslim Rohingya [people] in 2017," he continued. "[The] intent that was evidenced by, among other things, attacks on mosques, the use of religious and ethnic slurs, the desecration of Qurans, among, again, many other actions."

Blinken cited Eritrea, Saudi Arabia, China and Afghanistan as other countries that routinely discriminate against religious minorities.

"In Eritrea, only four religious groups are permitted to practice their faith freely, while members of other religious minority groups have been detained, arrested, [and] forced to renounce their faith as a precondition for their release," the secretary asserted.

"In Saudi Arabia, we recognize the important recent moves to increase interfaith dialogue and religious tolerance. However, publicly practicing any faith other than Islam remains illegal. And the government continues to discriminate against members of religious minority communities."

Blinken warned that "far too many governments remain undeterred in the repression of their citizens."

"China continues its genocide and repression of predominantly Muslim Uyghurs and other religious minority groups," Blinken stated, telling reporters that more than 1 million Uyghurs and other ethnic minorities have been detained in internment camps in Western China since 2017.

"The PRC continues to harass adherents of other religions that it deems out of line with Chinese Communist Party doctrine" by destroying their houses of worship and "erecting barriers to employment" for religious minorities," Blinken added.

"There are thousands of Uyghur family members, daughters and sons [who] are desperate to know where their parents are but are terrified of what news they could discover and are wondering whether they will ever be safely reunited," Hussain proclaimed. "The PRC government also continued its crackdown on Tibetan Buddhists. Authorities arrested, tortured and committed other abuses against Tibetans who promoted their language and culture, possessed pictures and writings of the Dalai Lama or practiced their religion at Buddhist monasteries."

Blinken said religious freedom in Afghanistan has "deteriorated dramatically" following the Taliban's takeover of the country last summer as the Islamic terrorist group has "crack[ed] down on the basic rights of women and girls to get an education, to work, to engage in society, often under the banner of religion."

At the same time, the terrorist group "ISIS-K is conducting increasingly violent attacks against religious minorities."

Blinken stressed that in Pakistan, "at least 16 individuals accused of blasphemy were sentenced to death by Pakistani courts in 2021 though none of these sentences has yet to be carried out."

Hussain added that "democratic backsliding and the rise in nationalism and nativist rhetoric and policies have been used to justify violence towards members of ethnic or religious minority groups and historically marginalized peoples." He contended that "social media platforms are used to spread hate speech and to incite violence by vilifying and threatening members of religious minorities."

Hussain praised the "powerful collaboration among civil society, governments and multilateral partners has led to some progress and provides hope in addressing these complex challenges." Both Blinken and Hussain repeatedly praised civil society throughout their remarks.

Blinken expressed gratitude to "faith leaders, religious organizations, [and] human rights groups" who "shared their perspectives and analysis" for the report.

Hussain rejoiced that the U.S. has "more partners in this effort now than ever before, including religious leaders. And religion can be such a powerful force for good and it should never be used to harm people."

"Our greatest hope is that together, we can unite our efforts to ensure respect of freedom of religion or belief for all people around the globe, and we continue to stand in solidarity with all people seeking to exercise their beliefs," Hussain concluded. "Civil society groups in countries all over the world are essential to this report and to our work. Their advocacy changes laws and lifts up the names of prisoners, provides lawyers to fight against various charges, and pushes governments, including our own, to do the right thing."

"Independent and strong civil societies help governments solve problems and better serve their people by shining a light on issues that matter the most," Hussain insisted. "Change is only possible with the hard work of the groups and individuals dedicated to fighting for these rights."

Blinken listed Morocco, Taiwan and Iraq as countries that have shown "notable progress" in the last year.

"Last year, the Kingdom of Morocco launched an initiative to renovate Jewish heritage sites like synagogues and cemeteries and to include Jewish history in the Moroccan public school curriculum," he said.

"In Taiwan, authorities are making it easier to report employers who refuse to give their workers a weekly rest day in order to attend religious services," Blinken added. "In Iraq, national leaders welcomed Pope Francis for the first-ever papal visit to the country, where he conducted Christian interfaith ceremonies in Baghdad, in Mosul and in the Iraqi-Kurdish region."

Blinken said that societies are "better off" when "the fundamental right of each person to practice their faith or to choose not to observe a faith is respected." When countries deny this right, it "sows division" and "ignites tension" that leads to instability and conflict.
Is Instagram harmful to teens mental health? Meta says no, but others disagree

Concerns about the negative impact of social media use on youth mental health and self-esteem continue to lead to calls to find solutions, with some advocating for improving safeguards on the applications to protect teens, while others believe the problem requires legislative action.

A spokesperson for Meta, the parent organization of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, told The Christian Post that the company's research "doesn't conclude that Instagram is inherently bad for teens."

"While some teens told us Instagram made them feel worse when they were struggling with issues like loneliness, anxiety and sadness, more teens told us that Instagram made them feel better when experiencing these issues," the spokesperson wrote in a Wednesday statement to CP. "That said, we want to help those who may be struggling. We've done extensive work in bullying, suicide, self-injury and eating disorder prevention, and we're focused on building new features to help people struggling with negative social comparison."

The spokesperson said the company has also introduced new default settings and launched "Take a Break" to encourage teenagers to spend time away from Instagram. In addition, the company plans to install a "nudges" feature to direct teenagers toward a different topic if they've been dwelling on the same one for some time.

Meta's representative noted that the company launched its first set of parental controls in March, which are available through its Family Center. The corporation said it worked closely with experts, parents, guardians and teens to develop the Family Center, which also includes a new education hub where families can access expert resources and tips on topics such as how to talk to teens about healthy social media use.

Others, however, believe Congress has a role to play in safeguarding teens mental health and monitoring their use of social media applications.

"When we know children are being harmed by something, why can't the state help?" Peggy Noonan wrote in an April 7 op-ed for The Wall Street Journal.

While the columnist noted that conservatives might hesitate to interfere with companies' ability to "maximize shareholder value," Noonan asserted that "[o]ur greater responsibility is to see to it that an entire generation of young people not be made shallow and mentally ill through addictive social-media use."

One solution Noonan suggested doesn't involve "technological sophistication" and "could be done with quick and huge public support" and involves placing an age limit on social media sites. She offered 18 as the age users can join sites such as TikTok, Youtube or Instagram.

"Why not? You're not allowed to drink at 14 or drive at 12; you can't vote at 15. Isn't there a public interest here? Applying such control would empower parents who face 'all the other kids are allowed,' with an answer: 'Because it's against the law,'" she wrote.

In March, Nature Communications journal published a Cambridge University study suggesting a link between social media use and negative life satisfaction in adolescents. The study suggested certain adolescent age groups were more sensitive to social media use than others, a time when higher social media use led to lesser life satisfaction ratings. These "development windows of sensitivity" were ages 14,15 and 19-years-old for boys and 11 to 13 and 19-years-old for girls.

Another study published in April by Acta Psychologica reportedly found a "consistent and substantial association between mental health and social media use" among girls.

"These associations were stronger than links between mental health and binge drinking, sexual assault, obesity and hard drug use, suggesting that these associations may have substantial practical significance as many countries are experiencing rising rates of depression, anxiety and suicide among teenagers and young adults," the study reads.

As The WSJ reported last September, researchers inside Instagram, which is owned by Facebook, found a link between the site and the development of eating disorders in young girls. The researchers presented the findings in a March 2020 slide presentation posted to Facebook's internal message board.

"Thirty-two percent of teen girls said that when they felt bad about their bodies, Instagram made them feel worse," the researchers said. "Comparisons on Instagram can change how young women view and describe themselves."

Facebook's research also found that among teens who reported suicidal thoughts, 13% of British users and 6% of American users traced these feelings to Instagram. More than 40% of Instagram's users are 22-years-old or younger, and 22 million U.S. teens use the site each day, the WSJ reported. In contrast, 5 million U.S. teenagers log onto Facebook each day, with 50% of the nation's teens spending more time on Instagram than Facebook on average.

In response to the WSJ report, Sens. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., and Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., the chair and ranking member of the Senate Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Data Security, announced last September a probe into Facebook's knowledge of its platform's impact on teenagers.

That same month, Sens. Edward Markey, D-Mass., along with Reps. Kathy Castor, D-Fla., and Lori Trahan, D-Mass., wrote a letter to Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg also asking for answers in light of the report. They called on the company to abandon its plans to develop an Instagram platform for children younger than 13.

"Children and teens are uniquely vulnerable populations online, and these findings paint a clear and devastating picture of Instagram as an app that poses significant threats to young people's wellbeing," the lawmakers wrote.
Early Christianity a 'feminist movement'?: Catholic nun says it's time for true 'herstory' to be told

Was the feminism fight central to the first century church?

Thats the question a Catholic nun takes on in a piece for the Global Sisters Report, a self-described independent, nonprofit source of news and information about Catholic sisters and the critical issues facing the people they serve."

Asserting that the Bible shows how the early church was a feminist movement and that its time for the true herstory of female discipleship to be told, the piece celebrates the news that Pope Francis opened the door to expand senior roles for women in the Catholic Church, citing scriptural reasons behind such a move.

The nun who wrote the piece is Nameeta Renu, a member of the Order of Consecrated Virgins in Bombay in Mumbai, India. She compared the church to Mary and Martha, two women who were followers of Jesus.

Renu, whose bio states that she has a doctorate in theology on spiritual guidance and integral formation, writes that while Martha embodied the relatively conservative early church views on womens roles, which pointed toward more traditional roles, Mary represents the feminist church as envisioned by Jesus.

In questioning these two archetypes, Renu then suggests both Martha and Mary represent the church at different points on the wide spectrum of feminism and cites Martha from the Margins: The Authority of Martha in Early Christian Tradition, a paper co-edited by agnostic atheist Bart Ehrman.

After asserting that God wants both men and women to be liberated from patriarchy, Renu says this can only happen when victims are freed from domination, and when oppressors are converted and liberated from sin.

She goes on to call Mary Magdalene the Apostle to the Apostles, and suggests that such a claim to apostleship holds as much weight as the Apostle Paul.

Mary Magdalene has a very important role in following Jesus, but she is excluded from the Twelve Apostles while Paul boldly calls himself an apostle to the Gentiles even though he is not a disciple of Jesus before his death and resurrection, Renu writes.

Christian blogger Erica Lee, whose blog Unfiltered & Free looks at gender and other topics through a biblical lens, told The Christian Post that filtering Scripture through feminism will only fuel further division.

"The feminist movement is nothing more than another societal ploy to divide the population against themselves," Lee said. "Satan is the master deceiver and he is hard at work.

"All social justice movements pit us against each other when we are all one Body in Christ. Christ's sacrifice on Calvary was the great equalizer."

Lee also said characterizing Mary Magdalene as a type of 13th apostle is without scriptural basis.

It appears to me that the author is simply uplifting an already significant female from the Bible to an elevated status as to remove perceived victimization, said Lee. Such twisting and manipulating of Scripture is dangerous.

Renu's piece also pushes back against the traditional interpretation of Acts 6:3, which says the apostles told the disciples, Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty of distributing to widows in the church.

According to Renu, there is little documentation about the identities of the seven who were chosen and that church fathers often used gendered language to represent all the baptized, even in the Nicene Creed of 325 A.D.

Renu suggests the seven might have been either men, women, or a combination of both.

She also argues that because the head of a family traditionally receives the blessing for all family members, some of the seven names could indirectly refer to their daughters, sisters, mothers or other relatives.

They could even refer to couples or all the members of their families being selected for the service, she added.

Lee told CP that such hermeneutical teaching is a direct reflection of the modern church and cited a recent study that found just 37% of pastors hold to a biblical worldview.

That is a heartbreaking indictment on the church, said Lee. Therefore, as a result, we see articles such as this.

Renu's piece appears to have been written in response to news out of the Vatican that would allow women to serve alongside all-male clergy in senior management of the Catholic Church.

Published in March, the new constitution calls for the involvement of laywomen and laymen, even in roles of government and responsibility.

The document, however, did not alter the role for women as it pertains to worship in the Catholic Church.

In most countries, women were already serving as lectors and catechists in the Catholic Church. However, with the official ordination, more conservative bishops will be unable to prevent women in their dioceses from taking on those roles. Francis changed the laws of the Roman Catholic church in January 2021 to formally allow women to give readings from the Bible during Mass, act as altar servers and distribute communion.

Throughout his papacy, Francis has called for women to have more formal roles in the church, but has remained firm on forbidding women to become deacons or priests. Catholic doctrine prohibits the ordination of women as priests, as those roles are reserved for men.

In April 2020, the pope established a commission to study whether women should be granted the right to become ordained deacons. In this role, women would be permitted to preach and baptize, but not to conduct Mass.
Lebanese Christian party leader warns of 'major confrontation' after Hezbollah allies lose majority

A Lebanese Christian party leader is threatening to reject any coalition government that would place allies of the Islamic terror group Hezbollah in the country's seat of power.

Samir Geagea, the head of the Christian party Lebanese Forces, told Reuters this week that the group will continue to boycott any power-sharing deal if a new consensus cabinet is formed that includes anyone aligned with the armed Shi'ite movement being appointed as prime minister.

The Lebanese Forces holds the largest bloc in Lebanon's fragmented Parliament with 21 of 128 seats. Hezbollah lost its parliamentary majority in last month's election, but the Hezbollah-led alliance secured 61 seats.

The body's first session was held Tuesday.

But Geagea says after the elections failed to stop Nabih Berri, described as a Hezbollah ally, from securing his seventh term as speaker, all options are on the table.

"If it's a government that includes everyone as usual, of course we won't approve and we won't take part," Geagea was quoted as saying.

"[Hezbollah] shouldn't celebrate too much," Geagea added.

The party chief also warned any further parliamentary divisions could result in a "major confrontation" between the Iran-backed Hezbollah and its allies and the Saudi-aligned Lebanese Forces, according to Reuters.

Lebanon's Parliament is set to elect a successor to President Michel Aoun in the coming months. The new president would then tap a new prime minister, and it's unclear whether Geagea and the Lebanese Forces will support the current premier, Najib Mikati. Aoun's presidential term ends on Oct. 31.

In addition to political turmoil, Lebanon also faces an economic crisis. The World Bank has warned the lira, the Lebanese currency, has dropped more than 90% in value since October 2019.

Any delay in forming a new government would likely worsen the country's economic stability.

Robert Nicholson, president of the Philos Project, a nonprofit advocacy group for Christianity in the Near East, told The Christian Post any Hezbollah-led government would be "the nail in the coffin of free Christianity in Lebanon."

As Lebanon's economy continues to deteriorate, Nicholson says, "Hezbollah  has no incentive to preserve Lebanon's old political system or the pluralistic values that made the country so special."

"In other words, it's an old-fashioned bust out: The biggest winner will be Iran, and the biggest loser will be the Christians."

With poverty and famine already running rampant, and stores, schools and hospitals closing, churches are "forced to shoulder the burdens of ever more desperate flocks," said Nicholson.

He pointed to the American University of Beirut  which he called "the shining legacy of Protestant missions in the Near East"  announcing plans to relocate to nearby Cyprus.

Nicholson warns the grip of the Iranian regime and the country's economic downward spiral is fueling desperation among Lebanese Christians.

"As the good people leave, the bad people gain more power and consolidate their grip on the state even more. It's a vicious cycle that can only be broken with outside help," he said. "That's why American leadership is so important."

The explosion in Lebanon's capital city in August 2020 led to over 200 deaths, thousands of injuries and the destruction of over 300,000 homes. The explosion worsened Lebanon's financial and humanitarian crisis as the Middle Eastern country with nearly a 40% Christian population was already in a state of decline.

With a population of around 6.8 million, Lebanon shares borders with Israel and Syria.

Bishop Peter Karam, the patriarchal vicar and titular bishop of Acre of Phoenicia of the Maronites, said last year that part of Lebanon's financial crisis is due to the amount of corruption in the government. He compared the financial system's mismanagement to a "Ponzi scheme."

"We must admit the fact that there is a lot of corruption in Lebanon. A lot of corruption in Lebanon financially, politically, socially.  The collapse of the financial institutions in Lebanon is a very complex issue," Karam said.

"The financial sector in Lebanon was a model in the region for a lot of years. The country was known as the Switzerland of the Middle East. But now it's just nonexistent because of mismanagement, corruption and political interference in the workings of the central bank and the financial sector."
Kathy Ormsby's work auditing medical case files uncovered an alleged scheme to defraud the federal government: The California health system that employed her was scouring health histories of thousands of elderly Medicare patients, then pressuring doctors to add false diagnoses it found to their current medical records.

The point of larding the medical records with outdated and irrelevant diagnoses such as cancer and stroke - often without the knowledge of the patients themselves - was not providing better care, according to a lawsuit from the Justice Department, which investigated a whistleblower complaint Ormsby filed. It was to make patients appear sicker than they were.

The maneuver translated into millions of dollars in inflated bills to the federal Medicare Advantage insurance program, the government alleged in its false-claims lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court in California.

The case was part of a broader government crackdown on abusive billing practices in Medicare Advantage, the privatized insurance option that by next year is expected to cover more than half of all Medicare beneficiaries. The Justice Department is pursuing civil lawsuits against multiple companies that participate in the privatized system, from huge insurers to prestigious nonprofit hospital systems, alleging they have cheated the system for unfair profit.

Ormsby's former employer, the Palo Alto Medical Foundation, which has 1,600 doctors, and its parent affiliate, Sutter Health, which runs 24 hospitals in Northern California, settled the case with the government in August 2021 for $90 million. It admitted no wrongdoing or liability.

The government said its investigation confirmed that Palo Alto Medical and Sutter systematically added false diagnoses to patient records. In a sample of hundreds of cases Ormsby audited, the government's lawsuit said, she discovered 90% of diagnoses for cancer were invalid, as were 96% for stroke and 66% for fractures.

"As we continued to audit, I started to see more things," Ormsby said in an interview with The Washington Post, the only time she has spoken publicly since reporting the alleged misconduct in 2015. "I couldn't believe how bad it was."

In response to questions from The Post, Sutter indicated it was ready to move on. "The agreement brought closure to a long-running dispute and enabled Sutter to avoid the uncertainty and expense of protracted litigation," it said in an email statement.

Medicare Advantage, which is run by outside companies under contract with the government, was added to traditional Medicare in 2003 with the support of Republicans in an effort to improve care and lower costs through privatization. But it is costing taxpayers increasingly more money to run than traditional fee-for-service Medicare, according to MedPAC, a government watchdog panel. The higher cost, what MedPAC labels "excess payments," reached $12 billion in 2020 out of total program costs of $350 billion and are projected to top $16 billion next year, MedPAC said in March.

The aggressive billing tactics stem from incentives built into Medicare Advantage. Under the program, companies are paid a flat fee per month to provide whatever care is required for a patient based on age, gender, geography and health risk factors. To compensate plans and providers for potential costs of care for individual patients with conditions such as diabetes, heart disease or cancer, Medicare boosts the monthly payment to Medicare Advantage plans under a "risk adjustment" for each additional condition. The system differs from the traditional "fee for service" payment, in which Medicare pays hospitals and doctors directly each time they provide a service.

If companies add more risk adjustment codes to a Medicare Advantage beneficiary's medical record to receive higher payment - but don't spend money on the additional care - they make more money.

Industry officials broadly rebut the charge that companies game diagnostic risk codes for financial gain. They say Medicare Advantage firms adhere to Medicare's rules and follow the system's guidance on regulations that are not always clear. Moreover, the industry says that listing all health issues on medical records is a crucial part of Medicare Advantage's promise to anticipate health problems, proactively manage disease and reduce hospitalizations.

But the government considers it improper - potentially even fraudulent - for providers to add codes for medical conditions that have been resolved or have no bearing on a patient's current health.

For-profit insurance companies have typically been the primary target of these probes. More recently, unsealed whistleblower cases such as Ormsby's against Sutter Health, and a pending case against Kaiser Permanente, reveal how such investigations have spread to prestigious, nonprofit physician and hospital groups.

Doctors, or sometimes even non-physician medical coders, updated patients' current records without providing treatment and often unbeknown to the patients themselves, the government's investigations have found.

Heart attack, stroke, cancer, vascular disease, depression, obesity and malnutrition were among diagnoses most often cited by the government in its false-claims lawsuits. In an example cited in the Sutter case, thyroid cancer was added as a current condition in a patient record even after the thyroid gland had been removed five years earlier and the patient had been free of cancer for years. None of the allegations has been fully tested in court, because they were settled by the companies without an admission of liability or, in the case against Kaiser Permanente, remain pending.

Some critics contend that a byproduct of these practices is that patients' medical records, padded with false diagnoses, are inaccurate. That could unnecessarily stigmatize patients who were improperly deemed obese, or malnourished, or mentally ill. It introduces potential phantom influences on treatment decisions, critics say.

In addition to her shock over thousands of alleged false billings, Ormsby "was not comfortable with what she perceived as the complete divorce from the reality of what was in patient records" at Sutter Health, said Sarah "Poppy" Alexander, a whistleblower lawyer at Constantine Cannon, which represented Ormsby.

"The accuracy of patient records is critical for anyone's health-care treatment," she said. "Think about all the decisions that are made based on what's in your health-care record. If that health-care record is not accurate, it's extremely dangerous."

Several doctors interviewed by The Washington Post said it was common practice for insurance companies and medical systems to search or data-mine the histories of patients covered by Medicare Advantage. Health systems were known to advise doctors on the most lucrative billing strategies, cajole them to document the maximum number of illnesses, and grade and rank them among their peers based on how they coded patients, they said.

"The emphasis is on how to code for more. It's not ethical coding, it's how to code for more money. That pressure is there," said David Terry, a recently retired psychiatrist who worked within large health organizations in Kansas that are not part of any of the lawsuits.

The Justice Department said in February that Medicare Advantage investigations are an "important priority." In federal whistleblower cases, the government investigates allegations brought by people with knowledge of alleged fraud against the government and then decides whether it will join the lawsuit, based on its findings. Whistleblowers are rewarded for stepping forward with a portion of any settlement or court awards. Justice Department whistleblower allegations and similar lawsuits also are playing out in federal courts against UnitedHealth Group, Cigna and Anthem. The government's Office of Inspector General has audited Humana and found it overbilled the government. United Healthcare, which is under the umbrella of UnitedHealth Group, and Kaiser Permanente denied any improper conduct. Cigna, Anthem and Humana did not respond to requests for comment.

The health insurance industry's trade group, AHIP, did not comment on allegations of false billings. MedPAC's estimates of excess payments, when compared with traditional Medicare, are exaggerated, AHIP executives said, because its calculations do not factor in all differences between the two payment systems.

"The Medicare Advantage system is designed to promote accurate coding and support integrated care," said Mark Hamelburg, AHIP senior vice president for federal programs. "Plans have to consider the entire patient, and know all their conditions, and how their conditions interact."

Medicare Advantage plans cut costs using the tools of the private insurance industry. They control the use of MRIs and other costly tests, for instance, cutting down on waste. They restrict care to certain hospital and physician networks. Then they use a share of those savings to keep monthly premiums lower than traditional Medicare, while offering extra benefits traditional Medicare does not offer, such as dental and hearing and gym memberships.

"It is a vast, complicated system. It involves all these various components," Hamelburg said. "Our view is that you shouldn't just look at individual components, you need to look at the totality."

An industry-backed study found that Medicare Advantage members pay $1,965 less in out-of-pocket costs, including premiums, than traditional Medicare beneficiaries. Beneficiary satisfaction is high. Membership in the plans grew by 10% last year; they are expected to cover more than 50% of all patients next year.

Ormsby, one of the Medicare Advantage whistleblowers whose case was investigated by the government, quit her job at Palo Alto Medical Foundation in 2015 after two years in her job as a risk adjustment project manager. An outside consultant had found 8,000 false codes for the years 2012 and 2013, the government alleged in the whistleblower lawsuit she initiated.

The government's investigation of her complaint revealed how physicians received computerized "daily alerts" for their patients flagging "suspected" diagnoses unearthed via data-mining. When their risk-adjustment diagnosis numbers fell short, doctors were urged by higher-ranking colleagues to improve, the government lawsuit alleged. In some cases, the government said, coders would add diagnoses to patient records without participation of doctors.

Some doctors pushed back on the pressure to add diagnostic codes.

"With my patient on hospice, there is something that seems unseemly about pursuing a new diagnosis of PVD [pulmonary vascular disease] when she has weeks to live," one physician, Joann Falkenburg, wrote to colleagues helping lead the pressure tactics. The email was obtained by Justice Department investigators. "I try to be pretty legitimate about how I diagnose, document and chart and want to avoid any possibility that it looks like I am working someone up just for the financial upside."

The government's lawsuit does not indicate how Palo Alto Medical responded to her email, and Falkenburg did not respond to a phone message requesting comment.

A Palo Alto Medical auditor reported in internal correspondence that another physician, Thomas Deetz, complained that "pre-populating diagnoses into his visit encounter is possibly fraud. ... Does CMS know about what you all are doing?" Deetz also did not respond to a request for comment.

Ormsby maintains that her multiple warnings about the practices were ignored or rebuffed. She said she received a poor performance review in early 2015, but by then she had already sought out private lawyers, a step that led to her whistleblower suit.

"I was finding too many errors, and they didn't want to send the money back," Ormsby said in the interview. Under rules for federal whistleblower lawsuits, Ormsby, 56, will receive 15 to 30% of the $90 million Sutter Health settlement.

The practices at Sutter were not isolated, according to the government. Kaiser Permanente, a nonprofit health-care organization that treats patients in California, Colorado and elsewhere, including Virginia and Maryland, is accused in a separate Justice Department lawsuit of similar tactics that allegedly brought in about $1 billion in improper billings from 2009 to 2018. The case, which is pending, was consolidated from six whistleblower complaints against the company.

"As each year drew to a close, some employees referred to Kaiser's rush to capture as many diagnoses as possible as the 'dash for cash,' " the government said in its lawsuit. It alleges that at Kaiser Permanente, doctors were invited to "coding parties," where physicians would be gathered in a room after hours and be expected to add diagnosis codes found in data-mining operations to current patient records.

Kaiser Permanente said in response to the government's allegations that it was following the rules.

"We are confident that Kaiser Permanente is compliant with Medicare Advantage program requirements and we intend to strongly defend against the lawsuits alleging otherwise," the company said in a statement sent to The Washington Post. "Our medical record documentation and risk adjustment diagnosis data submitted to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services comply with applicable laws and Medicare Advantage program requirements. Our policies and practices represent well-reasoned and good-faith interpretations of sometimes vague and incomplete guidance from CMS."

Internally, some doctors questioned the company's practices, the lawsuit contends. Among the diagnoses Kaiser Permanente physicians were frequently asked to add to patient medical records was aortic atherosclerosis, according to the government's lawsuit.

The condition, a hardening of the aorta wall, could often be observed incidentally in a chest X-ray or scan for some other ailment. Radiologists were instructed to record the presence of the condition if they detected any calcium in the aorta, "regardless of significance," according to the government's complaint.

Physicians would then be pressured via computerized queries to amend the patient records retroactively to include aortic atherosclerosis, which Kaiser had identified as having a "high rate of reimbursement" in the Medicare Advantage risk adjustment formula, the government alleged.

Some Kaiser Permanente doctors objected, saying the disorder was typically not serious in their elderly patients.

According to the government's lawsuit, one physician, Matthew James Sena, observed in internal correspondence that "Aortic atherosclerosis is nearly ubiquitous in patients this age. It is not a clinically relevant diagnosis and doesn't require treatment. Isolated [chest X-ray] interpretations are not grounds for clinical diagnosis in this case. ... [It's] clinically inconsequential in almost all cases."

A coding administrator for Kaiser Permanente is quoted in the complaint as saying "[n]o one believes it is a real diagnosis," and since "it is non-compliant to tell people to code for money, we need to really sort out a way to package this."

Medicare Advantage programs are touted by industry as a way of ensuring that chronic conditions are carefully monitored through disease-management programs. But Kaiser Permanente's increased diagnoses of aortic atherosclerosis threatened to create so many new patients with the condition that its disease management program for cardiovascular disease threatened to buckle.

Kaiser Permanente managers in 2011 came upon a solution, the government said: stop automatically enrolling aortic atherosclerosis patients in the cardiovascular disease management program.

After the change, the lawsuit alleges, medical leaders continued to pressure doctors aggressively to code for the disorder, identifying it as worth an additional $40 billion in annual billing opportunity at one physician practice.

"How do we rally the herd?" a physician executive director wrote to colleagues at Kaiser's Northern California Medical Group, in an email quoted in the lawsuit. "Everybody join in the discussion. $40m is no chump change."

Minnesota-based United Healthcare, the largest health-insurance company in the country, quotes a founding father on the homepage of HouseCalls, its program that dispatches clinicians to Medicare Advantage beneficiaries' homes: "Benjamin Franklin said it best, 'An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.' We agree."

Under such initiatives, companies routinely send clinicians, often nurse practitioners, into patients' homes to conduct "health risk assessments." Companies say the assessments are intended to identify any risks to beneficiary health that their physicians may have overlooked or that have developed since their last doctor visit.

But government reports have questioned whether the practice is intended to improve or capture more lucrative diagnosis codes. The visits often result in new codes added to patient bills without any evidence of doctors' having considered or treated the newfound diagnoses, the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services found in a report last year.

A Connecticut primary-care physician, Kenneth Dardick (whose spouse is the executive director of the Center for Medicare Advocacy, a nonprofit that advocates for patients), said he routinely receives copies of United Healthcare's in-home risk assessments and never learns anything about his patients that he did not already know.

He does notice that new patient codes are added to the reports, documenting conditions he already knew about or were irrelevant, he said.

He shared a copy of one assessment, with identifying information of the patient removed, that was sent to him by HouseCalls in April. He was already treating the patient, a man in his 70s, for diabetes. But the health risk assessment, in a section called "new diagnosis," had added a different code, diabetes with complications. The new diagnosis section also listed a personal history of a type of skin cancer. Dardick said a precancerous growth was removed from the patient's skin nine years ago and is no longer being treated.

"My sense is they are doing that just to game the system," Dardick said, citing the "new" diagnosis codes as "irrelevant."

United Healthcare stood out among Medicare Advantage companies for its aggressive use of risk assessments without evidence new risk codes were related to ongoing medical care, according to the Office of Inspector General report last year. (OIG did not identify the company in its report, but it did confirm its identity after a records request from the Minneapolis Star-Tribune.)

United Healthcare has the largest share of Medicare Advantage patients in the country, with 7.2 million beneficiaries, or 27% of the total.

United Healthcare did not respond directly to the OIG report's findings. In response to questions from The Post, spokesman Matt Wiggin emailed a brief statement. "Simply stated, compared to fee-for-service Medicare, Medicare Advantage costs less (for beneficiaries), is more equitable, has better quality, access, and outcomes with greater coverage and benefits and nearly 100% consumer satisfaction," he said.

Jacqualine Reid, a government research analyst who led the review, said the findings about United Healthcare raised red flags. Of the $9.2 billion in risk adjustment payments in 2016 based on health risk assessments with no other records to support the diagnosis, United received $1.38 billion, Reid and her team found in their review.

The three top diagnoses generating those payments were peripheral vascular disease, major recurrent depressive disorder and Type 2 diabetes with peripheral angiopathy.

"These are serious medical conditions. If they are getting payments for in-home visits, but we do not see any other evidence of services being provided to them, it raises concern," Reid said. "If they are appropriate, where's the follow-up care that in most cases you would expect to see?"
FREDERICK, Md. - Joe Bussard stood on the driveway of his home here near the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and glared at a noisy crow perched atop a nearby pine tree. Tall and gaunt with white hair, he wore black sweatpants held up by suspenders, a blue flannel shirt, brown slippers and white socks. He looked all of his 85 years.

"Damn bird," he muttered. Then he craned his head and hollered.

"CAWWW, CAWWW, CAWWW!"

The startled crow flew away, and Bussard cackled.

"He don't know what to think of me," Bussard said, laughing again.

Join the crowd, crow. People have been not knowing what to think about Bussard for decades. His singular obsession has entranced some and baffled others. If you weren't interested in his passion, Bussard probably wasn't interested in you.

He turned and shuffled back inside, through his cluttered garage, past his bedroom that he heats in winter with a wood-fired stove and down the creaky steps to the basement where the treasure is stored.

Since the early 1950s, Bussard ("Everybody thinks it's pronounced 'buzzard,' but it's Boosard," he says) has been acquiring 78 rpm recordings of the earliest and rarest examples of blues, bluegrass, jazz, country and gospel music. The collection of discs he has amassed is considered by many fellow collectors as one of the finest and most eclectic of early American roots music in the country. In the basement of his unassuming home, some 15,000 albums fill the shelves.

In the world that pays attention to these things, Bussard's treasure is legendary. Filmmakers have made documentaries about him. Writers have paid homage. Fans and musicians from all over the country have journeyed here just to see the records and listen to Bussard tell how he traveled the back roads of Appalachia and the South to find them. And they come to hear the songs.

But in recent years, as Bussard has gotten older, the fans and musicologists have had questions. Is there a plan for the collection? Has he even thought about it?

Looking for a record on the shelves in his lair, Bussard doesn't want to hear that kind of talk right now. "Aw hell, I don't know," he says, waving his hand dismissively. He'd rather play some music for a visitor.

"Oh my gawd, listen to this," he says in his thick rural Maryland accent as he gently lowers the needle on a 1929 recording "Wolves Howling" by the Stripling Brothers. "This is the most beautiful sound of a fiddle I ever heard in my life."

In his basement, time has stopped. There are no computers, no flat-screen televisions. Other than two newer turntables, there's almost nothing that looks like it was made in the past 50 years. There's a 300-pound speaker cabinet he bought in 1960, photos on the wall from the '50s, and rows and rows of records from the '40s, '30s and '20s.

Bussard's collection "is almost mystical," says Ken Brooks, a fellow 78 collector who first learned about Bussard when he watched "Desperate Man Blues" a 2003 BBC documentary about him. "It's so deep and wide. He has blues records that nobody else has. Country records that no one else has. Jazz records that no one else has."

In the book of Bussard, the spirit and soul and depth of American music can only be heard on the oldest 78s.

Modern music, he'll tell you often, is 'awwful, just awwful." And by modern, he means anything since Elvis Presley and the Beatles and "all that crap" destroyed music altogether. For Bussard, real jazz ended in 1933. And the last good country song was Jimmy Murphy's "I'm Looking for a Mustard Patch" in 1955.

Before being overwhelmed by vinyl records in the 1950s, 78s were the way most people listened to recorded music in their homes other than on the radio. Typically 10 inches in diameter, three and a half minutes a side and made of shellac, the records are called 78s because of the number of revolutions per minute the disc makes.

In his basement redoubt, Bussard walks over to his wall of records to make another selection. The albums are all in identical faded green sleeves with no marking to differentiate them. They are not ordered alphabetically or by year or by label. Only he knows the system.

"If I get Alzheimer's, I'm really in trouble," Bussard says.

He pulls another record from the shelf - "Death May Be Your Paycheck," by F.W. McGee, recorded in 1928 on Victor - and flashes a wicked smile. "Wait till you hear this."

Wait till you hear this. It's Bussard's mantra.

What he wants, more than anything, is for people to listen to the far-flung, wild, beautiful music found in America before recordings became commonplace and swallowed up regional idiosyncrasies. He wants people to hear the music created before vinyl, before 8-tracks, before cassettes, before CDs, before one-stop shopping on Spotify.

"Wait till you hear this," he says and puts on Jesse Stone's "Starvation Blues" from 1927. And then it's "Florida Rhythm" by the Ross De Luxe Syncopaters. And "It's a Good Thing" by the Beale Street Sheiks. And "Original Stack O' Lee Blues" by Long Cleve Reed and Little Harvey Hull.

And on and on and on.

What brings him joy, Bussard says, is playing these long-lost songs for anyone who will listen. Once, it was the musician Jack White.

Bussard didn't know White was a rock star. He thought he was just another guy who wanted to come over and listen to music. And that suited White perfectly.

He remembers Bussard pulling out a jazz record and telling White it would sound like the band was playing live in the basement with them.

"I was like, OK, whatever, eye roll, and then damn if he wasn't right," White recalled in a phone interview from Nashville. "Thirty seconds into this song, l was like, 'Whoa, whoa, whoa, wait a minute. What is this? Who recorded this? What is the speaker we're listening to this through? What amplifier are you using? Because, damn, you weren't kidding me, it sounds like this band is in the room with us right now.

"I just thought, wow, what a gorgeous thing he did for me."

White admits to having anxiety about the fate of collections like Bussard's. Worrying about them possibly being harmed by a fire or flood or indifference can keep him up at night. As White sees it, Bussard has preserved music that could have been lost forever.

"He doesn't care what anybody else thinks, and he's doing his own thing no matter what, but he's inadvertently archiving important records, some of which he had the only copy of," White said.

Bussard grew up not far from the home where he now lives, born in 1936 to a successful Western Maryland family that owned a farm supply company. Then, Frederick was mostly farmland and meadows and apple orchards.

Bussard's parents played music at home, but it was nothing that he enjoyed listening to. It wasn't until he heard Jimmie Rodgers being played on the radio in 1952 that he found what he liked.

"It was like a bomb when I heard that," he said. "I wanted every Jimmie Rodgers record I could get." As he found those records, he started scooping up others. The collection was beginning. It soon became the only thing he cared about.

After dropping out of high school in his junior year, Bussard worked odd jobs and did stints at a supermarket before starting at the family's business. He served in the National Guard for eight years but left: "It got in the way of my record collecting."

From the late 1950s on, his life was only about music. By then, he had formed a musical group, Jolly Joe's Jug Band, and hosted shows on radio stations playing old-time country. He still has shows once a week on WDVX in Knoxville, Tenn., and, since 1983, on WPAQ in Mount Airy, NC.

Bussard also started his own label, Fonotone, and recorded musicians at his home, including the first records by the pioneering guitarist John Fahey, who grew up in Takoma Park, Md.

But whenever Bussard had free time, he jumped in his Ford sedan and went in search of shellac gold.

He bought from dealers and at estate sales, but mostly he drove on twisty back roads through the hollers of West Virginia and Virginia's Shenandoah Valley and down through the Deep South of Georgia, the Carolinas and Mississippi. He asked everyone he met if they had "any of them old records," and they'd point him up to an attic or down the road to their cousin's house or to an abandoned five-and-dime in town.

After a while, Bussard could smell them. He found the old 78s in outhouses and spring houses, pulled them from broom closets and travel trunks. Many of the records were ordinary, dime-a-dozen discs with grooves so worn the record sounded like a slow-motion train wreck. But then, every so often, eureka!

"Oh boy, oh boy, oh boy," is what Bussard remembers thinking when he came across a rare, unblemished gem. "I had to hold my hands down to keep them from shaking."

Bussard sometimes forgets what he ate for breakfast, but he can provide detailed background on his records, the year they were made, who played on them and how many are still known to exist. He can tell you how much they're worth, too, but he likes to keep that part quiet. He says he has never spent more than $500 on a record. But he has sold a few for much more than that.

The collection grew, and so did Bussard's obsession. He didn't want to trade records; he wanted only to keep getting more. It took over everything.

While Bussard relentlessly chased his passion, it put a strain on others in his life.

"He was a very absent father," says Bussard's daughter, Susannah Anderson. "He was always here, but he didn't really have any interest in hearing what you had to say unless it had to do with music. If it wasn't a record, he wasn't interested, which made it a kind of isolated, weird childhood."

Bussard got married in the 1960s, but the year escapes him. "That's a long time ago; how am I supposed to remember that?" he says, laughing. He's reminded that he can remember almost every detail about the year each of the records he owns was released and all the musicians who played on them.

"Well, yeah, but that's records," he says, laughing again.

Anderson, 55, says she and her mother, Esther, who died in 1999, made their own world in Bussard's world, accommodating him most of the time, but not always. She said she came to terms with her father's obsession a long time ago.

"He has like a little slice of history down there, and he's a walking encyclopedia, and he knows everything about his records. And that's great," she says. "It's just sometimes it's hard to deal with reality with the dreamer. And, unfortunately, that's my job."

Bussard's collection is his life's work. It is his life. He wants these records to last forever.

And as it turns out, you can rescue records and preserve them. Treat records well, protect them from fire and water and they might last forever.

Preserving yourself is something else altogether.

Bussard was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in October 2019. The doctors told him they were able to remove the tumors, but there were complications. He was in and out of the hospital for five months. Then the pandemic hit, and Bussard was confined to his home, where he lives with Anderson, a registered nurse who has helped manage his illness. "She saved my life," he says.

In the past two years, Bussard has lost 50 pounds. He spends most of his time at home listening to records or watching TV or occasionally visiting with his three grown granddaughters. On Thursday mornings, he'll go out to the Masser Toll House Inn for the turkey and mashed potatoes special. If he's feeling lucky, he'll head over to the casino in Charles Town, W.Va., to play the slots.

But the cancer made him think about the unthinkable.

"I know I ain't gonna be here forever. A few more years, maybe," Bussard says. He's sitting in a booth at the Mountain View Diner with a plate of spaghetti in front of him. He sprinkles sugar on top the way he likes it and takes a bite. "You get to an age where you know everything. Or feel you know everything. And then you croak."

Asked what he would like to happen to the collection, Bussard again deflects.

"Oh, I don't care much about that. I'll be gone," he says.

His temper rises, though, when asked whether he would donate them to the Library of Congress or a university.

"Now why in the hell would I do that?" Bussard says. "If I give 'em to a university, you know what they'd do? Throw 'em in the basement ... Nobody ever sees them again. It's like a black hole."

Having these records quieted is a fate worse than death. And selling the collection while he is alive has never been on the table.

"I like to say I'll enjoy them until I croak," Bussard says. "Then whatever they do with them is fine."

Later, back in his basement, Bussard hammers a pantomime piano with a broad grin on his face as he listens to a rollicking Jelly Roll Morton recording from the 1920s.

"He was a genius," he says of Morton. "He never got the recognition he deserved."

The song ends, and he returns to the shelves and pulls out another disc, Blind Willie Johnson's "Dark was the Night, Cold was the Ground," from 1927. "One of the greatest sides ever cut," Bussard says.

The haunting guitar notes of a gospel blues song recorded nearly a century ago emerge from a quiet background of hiss and crackles.

Stop asking about what's going to happen to these songs, a visitor thinks. Just listen.

"Wait till you hear this."
LOS ANGELES (AP)  Brad Johnson, who jumped from rodeo cowboy to portraying the Marlboro Man in cigarette spots and film and TV roles including Steven Spielbergs Always and Melrose Place, has died. He was 62.

Johnson died Feb. 18 in Fort Worth, Texas, of complications from COVID-19, his agent, Linda McAlister, said Saturday.

Johnson played opposite Holly Hunter in 1989s Always, a remake of a 1943 film (A Guy Named Joe) about firefighting pilots. He played a pilot again in the 2000 religious apocalyptic thriller Left Behind, starring Kirk Cameron, and was in its two sequels.

He worked regularly on TV, including in the recurring role of Dr. Dominick OMalley in Melrose Place; Rough Riders, Soldier of Fortune, Inc. and CSI: Crime Scene Investigation.

Johnson was born in October 1959 to parents Grove, a horse trainer, and Virginia, in Tucson, Arizona. After competing in rodeos as a youth, he began his professional rodeo career in 1984 and was discovered by a movie scout, according to a family biography.

His work as an actor and as a Marlboro Man  one of a succession used by the brand  brought Johnson and his wife, Laurie, to California. They eventually moved their family to a ranch in New Mexico and the Colorado mountains before settling in north Texas. He sold ranchland real estate there.

"As much as he loved cowboying and the outdoors, Brad loved nothing more than his family. He put them before himself in every way and they know that they could not have been blessed with a better husband and father, his family said in a statement.

Although he was taken too early, he lived life to the fullest, they said.

Johnsons survivors include his wife of 35 years, Laurie, as well as their children Shane, Bellamy, Rachel, Eliana, Eden, Rebekah, Annabeth and William, and Johnson's stepmother, Teresa Johnson.
As the mayor of a small town in suburban Indianapolis, Emily Styron knows that her constituents count on her to remain calm.

But two days after the May 24 school shooting in Uvalde, Texas, Styron snapped when she saw a comment on Facebook from someone who appeared to discount the role that guns played in the slaughter of children and teachers at Robb Elementary School. She let loose on Facebook with an expletive-peppered rant.

"I am so sick and tired of the stupid useless rhetoric . . . when it comes to gun regulation," Styron, the Democratic mayor of Zionsville, Ind., wrote, angrily lamenting the "mass murders" of the nation's children.

Styron's anger reflects a sober reality for local officials across the nation. They say they are pessimistic that a federal - or even state-level - solution to the violence is forthcoming, even as President Biden renews his push for Congress to act on gun restrictions. Instead, armed with little more than fresh outrage, elected officials, police chiefs and school leaders are scrambling to find other ways to keep their own communities from becoming the next to be shattered in the country's unrelenting season of bloodshed.

Besides beefing up response plans and fortifying potential targets, local officials say they hope to revive public service campaigns that encourage even the nation's youngest students to report suspicious behavior. Local governments also hope to scrape together enough funding to expand mental health services to try to reach troubled residents before they lash out in violence.

"Everyone is on high alert," said John Tecklenburg, the nonpartisan mayor of Charleston, S.C., where 10 people were wounded in a mass shooting on Monday night. "I am fed up with this situation and will certainly try to do anything we can, but it is a daunting situation."

Over the past month, gunmen have killed nearly three dozen people in attacks at a grocery store in Buffalo, the school in Uvalde and a doctor's office in Tulsa. Those shootings were just part of a deeper pattern of violence besetting a rattled nation.

Since May 14, when an allegedly racist gunman attacked the grocery store in a predominantly Black neighborhood in Buffalo, there have been more than 35 mass shootings, including more than a dozen over Memorial Day weekend. So far this year, there has not been a single week in the United States without a mass shooting - defined as a gun attack in which four or more people are injured or killed - according to the Gun Violence Archive, a research group.

Other cities have been grieving over more isolated violence. Last Saturday, an 8-year-old boy was shot in Florence, S.C., after an alleged assailant randomly fired his weapon at passing vehicles. The boy died two days later. On Sunday, an 18-month boy was killed in Pittsburgh when he was hit by random gunfire. On Thursday, gunfire erupted in Racine, Wis., as a family was burying a son; two people were injured at his gravesite.

The nation's recent bout of high-profile gun violence is part of a terrible trend that began in 2020, when a swirl of factors - including pandemic-induced stress, a spike in gun sales and a frayed relationship between police and the people they serve - drove shooting deaths to the highest level in decades. Last year was even deadlier, according to the archive.

Through June 1 this year, gun violence has killed more than 8,000 people across the United States, 300 fewer deaths than during the same period in 2021, but over 1,000 more than in 2020, according to a Washington Post analysis of the archive's data.

With that, 2022 is on track to be among the deadliest years for shootings since the turn of the century, even if it falls short of 2021's devastating toll.

Tecklenburg, the Charleston mayor, said he and other local officials are increasingly perplexed trying to understand what is driving the violence. Much of it, he said, appears to be connected to armed individuals who have a far lower "barrier for pulling out a gun" than in the past.

He said the weekend mass shooting in his city occurred after a police officer responded to a report of a large, noisy party. When police arrived on the scene, he said, someone fired a weapon at an officer, shattering glass on the police cruiser. Others at the party then started firing their weapons indiscriminately, striking a total of 10 individuals, Tecklenburg said.

"It just feels like we are killing ourselves, and it just feels like as a nation we are on a suicide path," Tecklenburg said. "It's a sickness our country has to address and remedy, or I am fearful of the trend continuing to increase, and it will tear the whole fabric of the country over time."

Just this week, 500 police chiefs were in San Francisco for a conference on violent crime co-sponsored by the Major Cities Chiefs Association and the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF). On Wednesday, Tulsa Police Chief Wendell Franklin, who was attending the gathering, rushed to catch a flight back home after the shooting there, said Chuck Wexler, PERF executive director.

On Thursday, Wexler said, Franklin's deputy briefed the conference on the timeline of the shooting, noting that the gunman, who shot and killed himself, bought a semiautomatic rifle just hours before carrying out the attack.

"These incidents are so time-sensitive; so much can happen within a few minutes," Wexler said. He said chiefs are reviewing their policies and trying to determine "how they would respond in similar situations."

In Los Angeles, Police Chief Michel Moore said threats of mass violence have been "an ongoing concern," particularly in the local schools. Police on Thursday morning were helping investigate a threat discovered through a gaming application based in Mexico, he said.

Moore said his department has proactively approached houses of worship and other potential targets, asking the community to be on alert for vandalism or hate crimes and to report anything suspicious. In some cases, he said, officers will add patrols as a deterrent. The Los Angeles Police Department also has continued to update training regimens, Moore said.

"It used to be called an 'active shooter' situation, but we now term it 'mass violence,'" Moore said. "The key is stopping the threat and at the same time recognizing that the threat has evolved, and we want to get to the location and gather information as quickly as possible. . . . Those are the strategies. The key, like anything else, is execution."

In the nation's capital, police said in recent days that they have added patrols at schools, hospitals and shopping centers after recent mass shootings elsewhere.

"We are worried about copycats," said Ashan Benedict, executive assistant to D.C. Police Chief Robert J. Contee III.

Groups of officers in every police district are trained in handling rifles and other long guns, and carry such weapons in their vehicles, along with ballistic shields and equipment used to breach doors - all to help them respond quickly.

"There are so many different ways things can play out" with an active shooter, said Benedict, who before joining the D.C. police was an agent with the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. "We have to be fluid and flexible in our response."

D.C. police preparedness was put to the test on April 22 when a lone gunman fired 239 rounds at the private Edmund Burke School in Northwest Washington, wounding four people, including a security guard and a 12-year-old student on an elevated walkway.

A D.C. police officer working school security ran toward the shots and was quickly relieved by uniformed U.S. Secret Service officers who happened to be in the area. The gunman killed himself as authorities closed in on an apartment from which he was firing.

But the executive director of the Texas Municipal Police Association said he worries the nation's police agencies are unprepared to handle the volume of mass shootings taking place in the United States, in terms of manpower and equipment.

"Texas has four times as many law enforcement agencies as any other state in the union. We have almost 2,900 different agencies, almost 1,000 of which employ exactly one officer," said Kevin Lawrence, the executive director. "Sixty percent of all the law enforcement [departments] in Texas employ fewer than 10 officers."

Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey B. Norman issued a call for greater public involvement to avert mass shootings.

"There are no bystanders in this crisis," Norman said. "We all have a role, a personal responsibility to intervene early and often" when a friend or acquaintance is troubled or showing signs of distress.

Schools, churches and private businesses also have been reviewing security plans.

Several school superintendents said they feel they have already done all they can to harden school buildings. Their focus now is to expand mental health services for students and families, while drilling into students how best to identify and report possible threats.

"We're fearful this problem will grow if we don't continue to really focus and double down on resources for mental health services," said Heather Perry, the superintendent of schools in Gorham, Maine. The district's pandemic-era mental health needs outstrip its ability to provide care, she said.

"We're doing the best we can to provide what we can on-site. But our school social workers and counselors are not meant to do long-term treatment; they're intended for triage. They're intended to pick up the issues and then pass them on to a community partner, but those partners are overrun as well. The whole system's overrun right now."

Rodney Shotwell, the superintendent of Rockingham County Schools in North Carolina, said he's imploring students to speak out quickly if they see something suspicious, whether on social media or on school grounds. On the basis of his own recent visit to a playground, Shotwell said, even kindergartners have become more adept at sensing potential danger.

"I was two steps out of the door heading toward the playground, which was probably about 30 yards away. And I heard two kids say, Hey, Miss So-and-so, who's that man coming right there? Who is that man?" Shotwell recalls. "You don't want to frighten kids, but at the same time, one of the best deterrents is having people say something when they see something."

Shari Camhi, the superintendent of schools for Baldwin Union Free School District on Long Island, said the threat of gun violence increasingly centers on "things that are outside of our control."

"If we really want to solve a problem, you need to get to the root of the problem," Camhi said. "Schools are not at the root of the problem. The guns are the problem."

Many mayors also said they believe that the country's violent trajectory will continue if stricter regulations on firearms sales are not introduced. The U.S. Conference of Mayors on Friday released a letter signed by a bipartisan list of 255 mayors asking congressional leaders to pass heightened background checks and other gun safety bills. (The Post separately sought comment from Republican mayors without success.)

"Our nation can no longer wait for our federal government to take the actions necessary to prevent people who should not have access to firearms from being able to purchase them," the mayors wrote. They also pointed out that they had sent the same letter after a flurry of shootings in 2019, to no avail.

Tensions have been rising in recent days as mayors try, once again, to be heard on the issue.

On Wednesday, Dayton, Ohio, Mayor Jeffrey J. Mims Jr. and city commissioners wrote a terse letter to Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine (R) noting that DeWine and state lawmakers had loosened gun laws after an August 2019 mass shooting in the city in which nine people were killed.

A few days after that shooting, DeWine announced that he would support mandatory background checks and "red flag" laws in Ohio. But the governor quickly backed away from those proposals. DeWine instead supported several measures to weaken state gun laws, including signing a bill that allows residents to carry a concealed weapon without a permit.

"You chose to put politics over the people of Dayton," the letter stated. "You chose to put politics over the promises you made."

Tecklenburg, who took office in Charleston a few months after a white supremacist killed nine people at a local church, noted his frustration that Congress has so far rebuffed his calls to close a loophole in federal background checks named after his city.

The "Charleston loophole," which the gunman at Emanuel A.M.E. Church used to obtain his weapon, allows some licensed gun sales to be completed before a background check has been completed.

"How would you feel being mayor of a city that is known for a loophole that allows someone to be able to buy a gun just because the government didn't fully have the time to check their background?" Tecklenburg asked. "It feels pretty bad."

Meanwhile, Styron, the mayor of Zionsville, is facing pushback from some of her constituents over her profanity-laced remarks. But Styron said she won't apologize for them because the anger that spilled out represents the pain and despair gripping the nation.

"I am angry as a Mom. I am angry as a mayor of a community that has four elementary schools, two middle schools, a high school, churches, community centers, libraries," said Styron, who has three children. "And I work in a public building, and I just don't understand why we can't elect policymakers who are going to introduce and pass meaningful, responsible safety measures for gun ownership."

"Why aren't we all screaming mad about it?" Styron said. "Why aren't we all so frustrated and so angry that we want to see change?"

- - -

The Washington Post's Peter Hermann and Tom Jackman contributed to this report.
UVALDE, Tex. - The cowboy drove 1,213 miles from his Ohio farm and erected a blue tent and sign asking "NEED TALK?" on an empty corner lot. The Dallas artist painted a mural on tall canvas set up across the street from Robb Elementary School. The parents of a mass shooting victim flew down from Buffalo, advising new members of the terrible brotherhood created by yet another rampage.

As this small town grieves for 19 children and two teachers slain at school by a gunman, it has also swelled, becoming a pilgrimage site for mourners, relief workers, therapists, proselytizers and voyeurs. In a region that typically grows busy with summer vacationers cooling in the Frio River or fall hunters prowling the Hill Country, hotels are now unseasonably full, restaurants bustling.

There are hordes of media, of course, with tents and cameras and vans and bright lights. But other outsiders came, too. Police vehicles from other Texas towns - Cactus City, Irving, Amarillo - cruise the streets, filling in for a local force facing intense scrutiny over its delayed response to the shooting. Whataburger employees from other store locations arrive each day so the Uvalde outlet's staff can take time off. The Billy Graham Rapid Response bus, the American Red Cross, Christian bikers, San Antonio mariachi musicians and Florida therapy dogs have pitched up at makeshift memorials.

The scene highlights an unusually American reality. Mass shootings happen so often here that their locations have become a circuit of sorts, the kind of place where regulars see familiar faces, and lament over the latest tragedy.

"These shootings are always the same but always different," said Sandy Phillips, whose daughter was killed in a mass shooting in Aurora, Colo. in 2012, and who now travels with her husband from one massacre to another. Uvalde's survivors, she said, are "family now - unfortunately, a family you never want to become a part of."

Uvalde Mayor Don McLaughlin, in an interview, described visiting media as intrusive and frustrating "to no end." But he called the counselors and spiritual leaders who have descended on the town a "blessing."

"Not only will these families need help  you've got as many citizens that are traumatized by this," McLaughlin said.

The cowboy from Ohio, David Graham - no relation to Billy - set up his minimalist "Cowboy Cares" operation a half-mile down Main Street from a memorial in the town plaza. He had just been in Buffalo, where 10 people were fatally shot at a supermarket, and said he wanted to avoid the "circus" - the surreal festival vibe that overlays the quiet tour visitors take around piles of wilting bouquets and crosses dedicated to each victim.

Many there have an agenda, Graham said. He wanted only to offer an ear, and had found remarkable success: About 100 people a day had been pulling in, he estimated.

Graham, 62, stands on the corner in his white hat, giving thumbs up and clapping at passing cars. He looks each visitor in the eye and asks: "How are you sleeping?" Rarely is the answer well; tears often flow. On a recent evening, Graham chatted with a man who came to thank the cowboy for his presence, and who flipped off a Grapevine, Tex. police car as it passed.

Next was an off-duty Uvalde County sheriff's deputy, Andrew Davila, bearing two bottles of water for Graham. "People are seeking for why - why this happened," Davila, 47, told Graham. "The one constant I've come to realize is sometimes people just do bad things."

Karina Arango, 34, rolled up in a Mini Cooper. She was definitely not sleeping well, she said, and soon she was sobbing. Her friend's daughter was in the ICU, gravely wounded by bullets. Graham offered Kleenex.

"I'm so sorry, I'm so sorry, I'm so sorry," Graham told her, kneeling at her window. Arango perked up when he told her he planned to stay at least through the last funeral, then mentioned she had just hosted at her home a clown from Houston who couldn't find a hotel room. "It was amazing having her," she said, smiling.

Phillips and her husband, Lonnie, departed Buffalo in a hurry, leaving behind the RV that carries them from gun massacre to gun massacre, where they distribute a survivors' tool kit to mortuaries, schools and more. Uvalde was the 19th mass-shooting site they have visited since their daughter, Jessi, was killed in a movie theater.

"We have talked about just setting up a table and having this information there for whoever may need it. But we always hesitate to become part of the circus," said Sandy, describing street preachers and motorcycle ministers. "They were just loud and obnoxious, and it made me sad that this quiet little community was being inundated."

It was calmer on Thursday evening in the town plaza, where Knights of Columbus from various Texas chapters flipped burgers in 91-degree heat. A teacher from Albuquerque sang a Sarah McLachlan song and explained to those gathered that she knew Uvalde would be different from what she saw on television, so she "had to be here." The crowd, mostly locals, sat in camp chairs and seemed appreciative.

Earlier that day, Dion Green stood on the sidelines of the memorial in a T-shirt that read "NOT ONE MORE." He survived a 2019 mass shooting in Dayton, Ohio, that killed nine people, including his father, who died in his arms. Green had also just come from Buffalo.

"Every time, there's another one. Just like yesterday, Oklahoma," Green said, referring to a shooting Wednesday at a Tulsa hospital that killed four people. "I just try to offer light and hope so people can be able to move forward. It takes time."

Over at Robb, onlookers walked slowly past another memorial. A few houses away, a woman sold brisket from her driveway to raise money for the family of one dead child. She was relieved, she said, that the television vans with their lights had thinned.

Across the street from the school, Roberto Marquez took a break from the colorful, angular mural he had been working on for two days in a yard whose owner, he said, had granted him permission. "I don't trespass," said Marquez, 60, who wore a black cowboy hat.

When the Uvalde shooting occurred, Marquez had only recently arrived home to Dallas after nearly three months painting in Ukraine. This was his mission now, Marquez said: Going from crisis to crisis - migrant caravans, the Surfside condo collapse - to create art.

"Very few times I've felt rejected," he said. "Most of the time, people, they feel that what I'm doing is right."

Uvalde was only the third stop on Graham's cowboy listening tour. A onetime advertising salesman in Southern California, he said he used to openly mock Christianity, using hotel Bible pages to roll joints. Then one night he paused to read a verse, and he became a believer, though not an evangelist.

Graham said he had long done relief work, lending his muscles to haul wet furniture from hurricane-flooded homes. But he is older now, and a conversation in December with a woman in tornado-strewn Kentucky caused him to pivot. She asked him whether she could attend the funeral of a man she believed she had not done enough to save, Graham said.

"I said, 'I don't know, but how you sleeping?'" Graham said. "Then I got the idea that people needed to talk."

Graham spent weeks there. Buffalo was next.

In Uvalde, he has had a window into the town's ongoing trauma. The uncle of a child who called 911 from inside Robb stopped by, Graham said. Teens who fretted they would feel shame telling future college classmates where they were from came. One man sobbed that anger at the police might force his son-in-law, an officer, out of town - and with him, the man's daughter and grandchildren.

"My grandkids, he said - they're moving them away, and they won't even get to see the healthy part of this town come back," Graham recalled.

McLaughlin, the mayor, said he is concerned about victims' families having long-term support and resources, even after all the visitors have moved on. But their departure will also reveal the town's true character.

"Then, you'll see the side of Uvalde again that we talk about," McLaughlin said. "Neighbor will be there for neighbor. They will be strong and offer each other support."

Graham does not doubt that. Uvalde, he said, is more open and close-knit than any place he has visited.

"All I want to do is just leave it a little better than I found it," Graham told Gilbert Limones, a pastor who came with members of his congregation to pray with the cowboy in the post-sunset dark.

One of the pastor's companions gave Graham a cooler. Limones offered Graham a place to shower. Graham, who sleeps in his truck most nights, headed instead to a hotel room - one that, a week after the shooting, was finally open.
Its a fundamental fact: You cant take gimmicks out of presidential politics. Because like it or not, gimmicks work.

One of the all-time greats was in 1840. A newspaper snidely editorialized about William Henry Harrison, Give him a barrel of hard cider, and  a pension of two thousand (dollars) a year  and he will sit the remainder of his days in his log cabin.

Democrats pounced on a golden opportunity to rebrand the slightly aristocratic Harrison as a sort of frontier Everyman. They featured log cabins at their rallies and passed out hard apple cider drinks by the barrelful  though later generations eventually took a dim view of using alcohol as a vote-getter. It was enough to propel Harrison to a narrow victory.

One hundred years later, another president was in serious political trouble. Maybe Democratic strategists remembered the log cabin campaign as they desperately fished for ideas to save Harry Trumans floundering presidency. Because his re-election prospects were pegged somewhere between slim to none.

He had inherited the job when Franklin Roosevelt died. With the Cold War raging in Europe and countless headaches at home as the U.S. made the painful transition from wartime back to a peacetime economy, it seemed everyone was mad about something. And they all dumped their anger at Trumans feet.

When the 1948 election rolled around, Trumans Democratic Party fractured. The left didnt think he was liberal enough and deserted to support former Vice President Henry Wallaces Progressives. The right thought he was too liberal and went over to South Carolina Gov. Strom Thurmonds Dixiecrats. On top of all that, New Yorks popular Republican governor, Thomas Dewey, was circling the White House the way sharks circle a sinking ship.

Desperate times call for desperate measures, they say. With almost no money and little left to lose, Truman famously campaigned by train from one end of the country to another. Too broke to rent big-city auditoriums, he spoke from the back of a railroad car at dozens upon dozens of small towns from one end of the country to the other in his famous Whistlestop Campaign.

But the Democrats also did something else that, although equally revolutionary, is seldom remembered today. They issued a campaign comic book.

No, seriously, they did.

America was experiencing what collectors now call the Golden Age of Comics just then. Comic heroes had joined the war effort during World War II, supporting the Allied cause so exuberantly that one even showed Captain America punching Adolf Hitler in the face. So, the Democratic National Committee tried to harness that appeal in its quest for votes. And it bet big on the idea.

Three million copies of The Story of Harry S. Truman were released in October 1948, just as the countrys attention was focusing on the coming election. Its 16 brightly colored pages recounted Harrys improbable rise from the small, whitewashed house in Lamar, Mo., where he was born in 1884, to his arrival at the White House in 1945.

Although the artwork is credited to M.W. Ater, we dont know who wrote it. Its possible the author wanted to keep his name out of sight. Because those 16 pages are filled with such dialogue gems as, Yknow, that boy Harry sure plows a straight furrow. Yep. The straightest in the county! Heres another: Bess, the boys at the Legion meeting tonight were talking about having me run for county judge  as a Democrat! You get the idea.

Great literature, it wasnt. But if you think this comic book was intended for children, think again. Remember, the minimum voting age in 1948 was 21. (It wouldnt be lowered to 18 until 1971.) Nowhere does the comic say, Hey Kids! Be sure to show this to your mom and dad and tell them to vote for Uncle Harry on November 2!

This was a direct appeal to everyday Americans who didnt read The New York Times. Simplistic, yes; but it also talked to them in words they understood with a message that was impossible to miss. Harry Truman, the one-time farmer turned war veteran turned failed small-business owner turned local politician, had reached the very top. He knew what their lives were like because he was one of them. And they could always count on him to look out for them.

When the votes were counted that first Tuesday night in November 1948, Harry Truman had pulled off the greatest political comeback of the 20th century. It was close, but a win is a win.

And a now-forgotten funny book printed on cheap pulp paper had quietly helped make it happen.
An Iditarod sled dog was found safe after disappearing from a checkpoint in the race three months ago and covering nearly 150 miles, the Iditarod Trail Committee said Saturday.

Musher Sebastien Dos Santos Borges of France was picking Leon up and returning with him to France, the trail committee said in a statement.

Leon went missing in March after what the trail committee said was his escape from the Ruby checkpoint. In May, residents of the Alaska city of McGrath, over 120 miles south of the checkpoint, reported to Race Director Mark Nordman that they'd seen Leon frequently near a cabin.

The resident of the cabin and another musher left food for Leon in the hopes of catching him, according to the trail committee. He was captured early Saturday morning and was safe, alert and understandably skinny but seemingly healthy, said Iditarod spokesperson Shannon Markley.

Leon was expected to see a veterinarian in the coming days and needs a health certificate before he can fly back to France, Markley said.

The nearly 1,000-mile (1,609-kilometer) race across Alaska began March 6 just north of Anchorage. The route took mushers along Alaskas untamed and unforgiving wilderness, including two mountain ranges, the frozen Yukon River and Bering Sea ice along the states western coastline. Brent Sass won the race March 15 when he crossed under the famed burled arch finish line in Nome.

On March 12, a dozen dogs had arrived with Dos Santos Borges in Ruby, a checkpoint just under 500 miles from the start of the race.

Dos Santos Borges left Ruby on March 13 with 11 dogs, and scratched days later with nine dogs after the checkpoint in White Mountain, located just under 900 miles (1,448 kilometers) into the race.

___

Gonzalez reported from Phoenix.
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PHOENIX (AP)  A federal judge has denied an Arizona prisoners bid to delay his execution in the 1984 killing of an 8-year-old girl, according to the ruling posted Sunday.

U.S. District Judge Michael Liburdis decision keeps on track Wednesdays scheduled execution of Frank Atwood, who argued the states death penalty procedures would violate his constitutional right against cruel and unusual punishment by subjecting him to unimaginable pain.

His lawyers said Atwood, who has a degenerative spinal condition that has left him in a wheelchair, would undergo excruciating suffering if he were strapped to a gurney while lying on his back during his lethal injection execution.

Liburdi said in the ruling made Saturday that he would not block the execution based on Atwoods claim, noting that the state will provide Atwood with a medical wedge that will relieve pressure on his spine and can also tilt the execution table. He said those accommodations will minimize the pain Plaintiff experiences when he lies on his back.

The constitution, Liburdi wrote, does not require a pain-free execution, and that Atwoods position will be similar to what he typically assumes in his cell to limit pain.

Liburdi also rejected challenges to the drug the state plans to use and dismissed Atwoods claim over the Arizonas use of the gas chamber, saying it was irrelevant because he will be executed using lethal injection.

The challenge to his method of execution is one of a flurry of last-minute appeals by Atwood. Hes also asking the Arizona Supreme Court to delay his execution while his lawyers pursue claims that he is actually innocent of killing the little girl. That court denied a stay late last week, but is now considering the new claim.

And his lawyers continue to spar with the state over religious accommodations prior to and during his execution. He has been a practitioner of the Greek Orthodox faith for more than two decades and wants the state to allow him to undergo a religious initiation ceremony before the execution and receive last rites while in the execution chamber. The state has mainly agreed, but the two sides are at odds over exact details. A different federal judge is overseeing that matter.

The states insistence on cyanide gas is a cynical choice to force the acceptance of the danger and incompetence of its lethal injection method, at the cost of embracing Nazi methods of mass extermination, Joseph Perkovich, an attorney for Atwood, said in an email Sunday.

Atwood was convicted of murder in the 1984 killing of Vicki Hoskinson.

Authorities have said Atwood kidnapped the girl, whose remains were discovered in the desert northwest of Tucson nearly seven months after her disappearance. Experts could not determine the cause of death from the remains that were found, according to court records.

Atwood maintains that he is innocent of the crimes.

Until last month, Arizona went almost eight years without carrying out an execution. The hiatus has been attributed to the difficulty of securing lethal injection drugs as manufacturers refuse to supply them and to problems encountered during the July 2014 execution of Joseph Wood, who was given 15 doses of a two-drug combination over nearly two hours. Wood snorted repeatedly and gasped before he died. His attorney said the execution had been botched.

The hiatus ended on May 11 when the state executed prisoner Clarence Dixon for his murder conviction in the 1978 killing of Deana Bowdoin, a 21-year-old Arizona State University student.

As part of Atwoods argument to get his execution delayed, his lawyers questioned whether the compounded pentobarbital to be used in the execution meets pharmaceutical standards and whether the state has met a requirement that the drugs expiration date falls after the execution date.

Prosecutors say Atwood was trying to indefinitely postpone his execution through legal maneuvers.

Two weeks ago, Atwood declined to choose between lethal injection or the gas chamber, leaving him to be put to death by lethal injection, the states default execution method.

Arizona, California, Missouri and Wyoming are the only states with decades-old lethal-gas execution laws still on the books. Arizona, which carried out the last gas chamber execution in the United States more than two decades ago, is the only state to still have a working gas chamber.

In recent years, Oklahoma, Mississippi and Alabama have passed laws allowing executions with nitrogen gas, at least in some circumstances, though experts say its never been done and no state has established a protocol that would allow it.

Atwoods lawyers also said Arizona could take up executions by firing squad, a method of execution not used in the state.
GRAYLING  Michigan National Guard plans to more than double the size of its Northern Michigan base Camp Grayling.

The camp, which spans more than 148,000 acres, is the largest National Guard training site in the country.

Col. Scott Meyers says expanding the military complex will allow for safely distanced multi-domain training in land, air, sea, cyber and space warfare.

Itll allow us to really put Northern Michigan on a map, Meyers said. I don't see anywhere else in the United States that has the ability to simultaneously train in all those domains of warfare in a four season environment.

Camp Grayling contains the largest restricted special use airspace East of the Mississippi River, Meyers said. Close access to Lake Huron allows for naval training, and the remoteness of Northern Michigan allows for cyber and space training.

Meyers said technologies used in the wars of Afghanistan and Iraq showed the necessity for multi-domain training of modern warfare. The expansion will help them to train under these new technologies.

Some residents have expressed concern that expanding military presence in Camp Grayling will hinder recreation in the area. Meyers said that they already have plenty of impact areas for artillery capabilities; what they are missing is distance away from those loud activities to be able to integrate more low-impact training, such as concealment from space assets.

We look at this as very low-impact for the environment, Meyers said. If the units are training and if theyre training well, they shouldn't be seen.

He said under agreements with the Department of Natural Resources, they would drive on existing roads and trails.

For safety reasons, Meyers said they will put out advisories when land is being used for low-impact training, but it will still be available to the public. Any high-risk areas for high-impact training are already fenced off.

There is no timeline for the proposal. Meyers said he hopes to see action by the end of the year after coming to an agreement with the DNR.
World Password Day was celebrated on May 5, and with it came a huge announcement from the biggest companies in tech: passwordless logins are coming, promising to make web security better than ever for millions of users.

Apple, Microsoft, and Google have joined forces in an unprecedented attempt to make logins across the web more secure. This announcement couldn't have come at a better time: recent statistics have shown that Americans are more concerned than ever with the security of their accounts.

Google searches for "password strength test" spiked 300% in 2021, according to a report which also showed that only 46% of Americans feel confident in the security of their accounts.

Passwordless logins promise a simpler, more secure solution to the usual password/two-factor identification methods that users have grown accustomed to over the years. Google's press release provides insight into how this technology will work:

"When you sign into a website or app on your phone, you will simply unlock your phone - your account won't need a password anymore.

Instead, your phone will store a FIDO credential called a passkey which is used to unlock your online account. The passkey makes signing in far more secure, as it's based on public key cryptography and is only shown to your online account when you unlock your phone.

To sign into a website on your computer, you'll just need your phone nearby, and you'll simply be prompted to unlock it for access. Once you've done this, you won't need your phone again, and you can sign in by just unlocking your computer. Even if you lose your phone, your passkeys will securely sync to your new phone from cloud backup, allowing you to pick up right where your old device left off."

FIDO (Fast IDentity Online) authentication is "a set of standards for fast, simple, strong authentication, developed by a conglomerate," according to Google.

The conglomerate of Apple, Microsoft, and Google ensures that the new passwordless experience will be seamless, as TechCrunch's Carly Page explains: "Over the next year, the three tech giants will implement passwordless FIDO sign-in standards across macOS and Safari; Android and Chrome; and Windows and Edge. This means that, for example, users will be able to sign in on a Google Chrome browser that's running on Microsoft Windows, using a passkey on an Apple device."

This new way of signing into your accounts could be coming sooner than you think. "These new capabilities are expected to become available across Apple, Google, and Microsoft platforms over the course of the coming year," according to a statement from the FIDO Alliance.

This will immediately benefit many, as findings from a report from the Identity Theft Resource Center in 2021 revealed that most users do not follow secure password practices at all, citing that it is too difficult to keep up with all of their passwords. Luckily, this new standard will make secure passwords feel as ubiquitous as unlocking a mobile phone with your fingerprint.

"Working with the industry to establish new, more secure sign-in methods that offer better protection and eliminate the vulnerabilities of passwords is central to our commitment to building products that offer maximum security and a transparent user experience - all with the goal of keeping users' personal information safe," says Kurt Knight, Apple's Senior Director of Platform Product Marketing.

Users aren't left without a support system until this new standard is rolled out. Apple, Microsoft, and Google provide excellent tools for anybody who wishes to make their accounts and passwords more secure. Everyone should want to make their accounts more secure, considering that the largest single password breach in history happened just last year.

Apple users can utilize iCloud Keychain, which remembers your passwords and automatically enters them when needed. If you're a Google user, their excellent Password Manager is the single best way to secure your accounts.

Although Microsoft is slightly lagging behind their counterparts in offering a complete password manager, its Autofill extension or Authenticator app works across all web browsers, not just Edge.

As we approach the midway point of 2022, cybersecurity is more important than ever. After all, recent studies show that an astonishing 1 out of every 142 passwords is "123456," according to a data dump of over one billion leaked passwords.

Web users should be more inclined than ever to safeguard their accounts, from our privacy to our financial well-being to our peace of mind and everything in between. According to Microsoft, "World Password Day is meant to foster good password habits that help keep our online lives secure" and was created by cybersecurity professionals in 2013.

With this new standard being announced, internet users everywhere will soon be living every day like it's World Password Day.
WASHINGTON - Key senators said Sunday there is growing momentum to forge a bipartisan congressional response to recent mass shootings that could toughen federal gun laws for the first time in a generation. But a deal is not yet in hand, they warned, and the delicate talks are expected to continue for several more days as negotiators seek to garner enough Republican support to get a compromise bill through the Senate.

Should an agreement come together, it is certain to fall well short of the parameters that President Joe Biden laid out in a White House address on Thursday, when he called for renewing the federal assault weapons ban that expired in 2004, as well as significantly expanding federal background checks for gun buyers and removing the firearms industry's immunity from lawsuits.

But a proposal that would encourage states to set up red-flag laws that would allow authorities to keep guns away from people thought to be a threat to their communities or themselves remains under keen discussion, as do measures tackling school security and mental health, according to people involved in the discussions.

"It's really tough sledding. But I've never been part of conversations that are this serious and this thoughtful before, and I know all the Republicans and Democrats who are at the table are there with total sincerity to get an agreement," Sen. Chris Murphy (Conn.), the Democratic negotiator, said in an interview Sunday.

Sen. Pat Toomey, R-Pa., another member of the small group of senators hashing out a potential deal, said on CBS's "Face The Nation" that the discussions, while "intensive," do not "guarantee any outcome."

"But it feels to me like we are closer than we've been since I've been in the Senate," said Toomey, who co-led a failed 2013 effort to expand criminal background checks for gun buyers after the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting.

The negotiators - and Democratic leaders - have seized on a growing sense of national outrage following the May 14 attack that took 10 lives at a Buffalo supermarket and the May 24 massacre of 19 children and two teachers inside Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. Other shootings with multiple victims have followed, including incidents in Tulsa; Ames, Iowa; and overnight Saturday in Philadelphia and Chattanooga, Tenn. By one measure, there have already been more than 200 mass shootings in 2022.

Public polling shows consistently strong support for expanding background checks for gun buyers. Surveys taken after mass shootings frequently show strong support for tighter gun laws - 54% vs. 16% wanting less strict laws, according to a May CBS News/YouGov poll taken after Buffalo but before Uvalde - though that support tends to recede as public attention fades.

Having seen previous attempts at negotiation fizzle as violent incidents left the headlines, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., signaled last month after the Uvalde shooting that he had limited patience for extended talks. He gave the group 10 days - until the Senate returns on Monday from a week-long recess - to show substantial progress toward an agreement.

Murphy said he spoke to Schumer on Sunday morning and that the deadline has been extended, modestly. "He still feels like we need to come to an agreement by the end of this week," Murphy said, adding, "I think that's entirely possible." Schumer spokesman Justin Goodman did not address the timeline but said the senator supports the bipartisan group and looks forward to discussing its proposals with the Democratic caucus this week.

Asked about the pace of the negotiations, a GOP aide familiar with the negotiations said, "We're aware of the artificial timeline Senator Schumer has created." The aide spoke on the condition of anonymity to candidly describe the talks.

Sen. John Cornyn of Texas, who is leading the talks for Republicans, said in an interview Thursday that he shared a sense of urgency. "I think we need to act, and we need to act relatively quickly," he told The Washington Post. "We could lose this opportunity to do what we could to save lives, which to me is what this is all about."

While Republicans have long emerged as unflinching defenders of gun rights, encouraged by a voting base that includes millions of gun owners, there are signs that GOP lawmakers may have more negotiating space than in the past.

An open letter published Sunday in the Dallas Morning News signed by more than 250 prominent Texas conservatives offered support to Cornyn as "the right man to lead this bipartisan effort." The signers also endorsed a federal red-flag law and expanded background checks.

In an interview Friday, the key Democrat negotiating a federal red-flag provision, Sen. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, said he was encouraged by the progress that had been made on that aspect of the negotiations.

Blumenthal said he and Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., had come to an agreement between the two of them on a basic framework for legislation that would create a system of incentives, grants and federal standards for states that create their own red-flag laws. But he said details were still being hashed out as the discussion moved to a wider group of bipartisan negotiators. A spokesman for Graham did not respond to a request for comment.

It remained unclear, Blumenthal said, if any iteration of the proposal could garner the necessary 60 votes - which would mean a minimum of 10 Republicans if all 50 members of the Democratic caucus backed a deal.

"It's not final until it's final, and we need 60 votes," he said. "We're now going beyond the two of us to 10 of us, and we also need to be mindful of 60 of us, because all of the optimism in the world will fail to save lives unless we make it law."

As for background checks, talks are still underway. Any deal would be much more limited than previous expansion proposals, such as the legislation drafted in 2013 by Toomey and Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va.

Cornyn said Thursday that he is willing to consider expanding the scope of criminal records that can block a gun sale under the federal instant background check system to include juvenile records. That could theoretically block a sale to a young gun buyer who has been judged responsible for a criminal act in sealed juvenile proceedings but has no adult record.

The Buffalo and Uvalde attacks involved 18-year-olds and legally purchased weapons. It remains unclear in both cases whether there were juvenile records that might have blocked those sales.

Cornyn said he favored a "limited, careful, confidential look-back" to ensure that young gun buyers are more closely scrutinized. "If they had been an adult with this same record, they would have been disqualified by the background check system," he said.

"We all agree that violent criminals and deranged, dangerously mentally ill people shouldn't have firearms," Toomey said Sunday. "So we need a mechanism to increase the likelihood that will identify such a person and prevent them from buying a gun legally anyway."

Other proposals related to school security and mental health have been floated during both private discussions and public forums. Graham on Friday tweeted a proposal to "create a certification process that allows former military members to go through school security training" and carry weapons in schools.

"Our schools are soft targets," he said. "They contain our most valuable possession - our children, the future of our country - and must be protected."

While Democrats have tended to react coldly to proposals that would arm school staff, Murphy on Sunday lent tentative support to Graham's idea. "There's no doubt there's going to be an increased demand for school security officers. It would be perfectly appropriate and, in some ways preferable, for veterans with significant training to fill those positions," he said.

Other elements likely to be included in a package is significant federal funding for both school security and mental health programs. Murphy said he thought congressional Republicans could be willing to follow the lead of Florida lawmakers after the 2018 shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. Within a month, a GOP-majority legislature and GOP governor in the state enacted legislation that included significant new gun restrictions as well as $400 million in funding.

"I don't think we're going to copy anybody else's law - we're going to have to come up with a unique compromise in the Senate," Murphy said. But he praised the gun provisions, mental health funding and school safety money that the Florida law provided: "That makes a lot of sense, and it's consistent with the discussions we've had."

In a rare national prime-time address on Thursday, Biden advocated for relatively far-reaching proposals such as the assault weapons ban. But he acknowledged that the current Congress, with a 50-50 Senate and a thin House majority, would probably not be raring to embrace them.

He suggested more modest alternatives, such as raising the minimum age for assault weapon purchases to 21 from 18. Even that, negotiators have said in recent days, is unlikely given conservative reticence to ban firearms or ammunition of any type.

Biden's overarching plea, however, was for Congress to do something, anything, to break nearly three decades of inaction on guns: "Enough, enough, enough," he said in closing.

While he lent support to the bipartisan talks on Thursday, he also added a dig at the GOP: "The fact that the majority of the Senate Republicans don't want any of these proposals even to be debated or come up for a vote, I find unconscionable."

That grated on the ears of Republican senators and aides who were perplexed at Biden's decision to give a national address advocating for provisions that few, if any, conservative lawmakers could support - and which Democrats in the bipartisan Senate group weren't even seriously pursuing.

Graham, for instance, quickly tweeted that he was "ready to work across the aisle to find common ground - something that was absent from President Biden's address to the nation."

Toomey on Sunday chided Biden for putting forth "policies that he knows for sure have no chance of passing the Senate, probably couldn't even get 50 votes and hold the Democrats, much less get the 60 we would need."

But Biden's sharp speech does not appear to have derailed the talks, which never included many of the provisions he called for. "It was unhelpful," said the Republican aide briefed on the talks. "But, also, he's irrelevant."

The biggest factor pushing the two parties toward the kind of deal that has been elusive in the past, Murphy said Sunday, is a "collective sense of the cost of failure."

"I think parents and kids are really scared right now, and for us to let our politics get in the way of providing them an answer, and comfort, would be devastating," he said. "But, you know, this is the most politically complicated and emotionally fraught issue that Congress deals with. There's a reason why we haven't made progress on this for 30 years."

- - -

The Washington Post's Scott Clement, Ellen McCarthy and Amy B Wang contributed to this report.
TRUMBULL  The towns registrars of voters have selected the new polling places for the upcoming primaries and general elections. The new configuration is the result of redistricting on the state and local level.

According to Democratic registrar Jean Rabinow and Republican registrar Tracy Vonick, voters in District 1 will vote at Daniels Farm School; District 2 voters at Booth Hill School; District 3 voters at Tashua School; District 4 voters at Madison Middle School; District 5 voters at Frenchtown School; District 6 voters at Middlebrook School, and District 7 voters at Christian Heritage School.

We plan to mail out postcards with information about the new polling places before the August 9 primaries and again before the Nov. 8 general election. We want to give everyone plenty of time to figure out where theyll be voting, Vonick said in a news release.

The towns registered Republican and Democratic voters should receive their postcards for their primaries by mid-July and for the November election in October.

In April, the Town Council voted to approve a resolution to redistrict the town  the second redistricting of Trumbull in a handful of years. In 2020, the town council approved a redistricting that brought the town from four districts to seven.

But, since then, the 2020 Census data was released, and districts are supposed to be created using the most recent census information. The Connecticut General Assembly also redrew state representative districts, based on the new census data. The statewide redistricting meant that Trumbull had to accommodate four state House districts instead of the previous three.

One of the goals of Trumbulls redistricting committee was to create as few split districts  town council districts that include multiple legislative districts  as possible. However, split districts couldnt be eliminated entirely, and the registrars confirmed that, under their new configuration some polling places will have to accommodate voters from more than one state representative districts.

Voters at Madison, Middlebrook, and Christian Heritage will have to go through different check-in lines depending on which district their street is in, Rabinow said in a news release.

The registrars said that the seven new voting districts contain nearly-equal populations, and each district will have three seats on the 21-member town council.

The April town council meeting to decide the new voting districts was contentious and led to a walkout of all the Republican members of the council, many of whom complained that the seven-member redistricting committee had a Democratic majority, and that the public wasnt sufficiently informed about the plan.
SPRINGFIELD, Va. (AP)  A northern Virginia police officer fatally shot a presumably rabid coyote that had bitten several people after the animal also attacked him, authorities said Sunday.

The Fairfax County officer was searching a wooded area for the coyote, which had bitten three people and two dogs in the vicinity a day earlier.
Major Republican donors, including some that have contributed to Gov. Greg Abbotts campaigns, joined other conservative Texans in signing an open letter supporting congressional action to increase gun restrictions in response to the mass shooting in Uvalde that left 19 children and two teachers dead last week.

The letter, which is expected to run as a full-page ad in the Dallas Morning News on Sunday, endorses the creation of red flag laws, expanding background checks and raising the age to purchase a gun to 21. More than 250 self-declared gun enthusiasts signed it.

Most law enforcement experts believe these measures would make a difference, the letter reads. And recent polls of fellow conservatives suggest that there is strong support for such gun-safety measures.

The letter voices support for Texas senior senator, John Cornyn, who has been tapped to lead bipartisan negotiations in Congress over possible gun reform measures.

We are grateful that our Senator John Cornyn is leading efforts to address the recent tragedies in Uvalde and elsewhere across our great Country, the letter says. Hes the right man to lead this bipartisan effort, as he has demonstrated throughout his career.

In an interview with Politico, Cornyn stressed that he was not interested in restricting the rights of law-abiding citizens under the Second Amendment, but said it would be embarrassing if Uvalde didnt spark Congress to reach some sort of bipartisan legislative response.

The letter was paid for by Todd Maclin, a former senior executive at J.P. Morgan Chase who now runs the Dallas-based finance firm Maclin Management. Maclin said he is a conservative gun owner who has been stirred to action by the shooting in Uvalde.

These events have really motivated me and really gotten under my skin and encouraged me to support the effort thats underway, Maclin told The Texas Tribune. I just felt like I needed to do something, and I also believe that there are reasonable things that can be done.

He said he is still hearing from more conservative gun owners who are feeling a great sense of urgency and a great need to support [Cornyn] as he does his best to address these issues.

Maclin said the group is focusing on federal legislation, which he believes is the best avenue to passing gun safety laws and ensuring they are applied uniformly across the country. He declined to comment on the state response to the shooting or gun legislation, except to say that he hopes any federal plan led by Cornyn and passed with conservative support would be embraced by state governments.

Among the signatories are deep-pocketed Abbott supporters, including billionaires Robert Rowling, whose holding company owns Omni Hotels, and Ray L. Hunt, executive chairman of Hunt Consolidated Inc.

The contents of the letter are in line with policies Abbott and other party leaders, including Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, have supported in the past  though not the ones they are endorsing now.

After the 2018 school shooting in Santa Fe, outside Houston, Abbott supported red flag laws, which would allow local officials to take someones guns away if a judge declares them to be a danger. He later dropped his support for the measure, citing a coalescence against it from his own party.

The next year, after back-to-back mass shootings in El Paso and Midland-Odessa, Patrick said he was willing to take an arrow from the National Rifle Association and support expanding background checks.

The next time the Legislature met, however, lawmakers instead passed a law that allows Texans to carry a handgun without a license or training.

This time, neither Patrick nor Abbott have expressed any support for tightening gun laws. They have instead offered suggestions that have ranged from expanding mental health services and minimizing the entrances to school buildings to doing surprise security checks.

On the federal level, both Cornyn and Sen. Ted Cruz have A+ ratings from the NRA and are top Senate recipients of gun industry donations. But theyve taken differering tacks in response to the shooting in Uvalde.

Cruz said in the wake of the massacre that passing laws that restrict gun access doesnt work. Its not effective. It doesnt prevent crime. But Cornyn has shown a willingness, now and in the past, to support some bipartisan gun legislation.

In the wake of the 2017 Sutherland Springs shooting outside San Antonio, Cornyn worked with Democratic colleagues to improve the background check system to prevent felons and domestic abusers from purchasing firearms.

He has also supported banning bump stocks, which allow semi automatic guns to fire faster, and shepherded into law a bill that funded the screening and treatment of offenders with mental illness.

After last weeks shooting, Cornyn has said hes not interested in making a political statement, but is focused on making the terrible events that occurred in Uvalde less likely in the future.

Disclosure: Politico has been financial supporters of The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that is funded in part by donations from members, foundations and corporate sponsors. Financial supporters play no role in the Tribune's journalism. Find a complete list of them here.

The Texas Tribune is a member-supported, nonpartisan newsroom informing and engaging Texans on state politics and policy. Learn more at texastribune.org.
WFO MIDLAND/ODESSA Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Saturday, June 4, 2022

_____

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING

The National Weather Service in Midland has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...

South central Pecos County in southwestern Texas...

East central Brewster County in southwestern Texas...

Southwestern Terrell County in southwestern Texas...

* Until 700 PM CDT.

* At 555 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located 13 miles west of

Sanderson, moving southeast at 20 mph.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and quarter size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage

to roofs, siding, and trees.

* Locations impacted include...

Sanderson.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
WFO SPOKANE Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Sunday, June 5, 2022

_____

FLASH FLOOD WARNING

The National Weather Service in Spokane has issued a

* Flash Flood Warning for...

The Whitmore Burn Scar in...

Southeastern Okanogan County in north central Washington...

* Until 630 PM PDT.

* At 322 PM PDT, Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing

heavy rain over the Whitmore Burn Scar. Between 0.1 and 0.3 inches

of rain have fallen. The expected rainfall rate is 0.5 to 1 inch

in 1 hour. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly.

HAZARD...Life threatening flash flooding. Thunderstorms

producing flash flooding in and around the Whitmore

Burn Scar.

SOURCE...Radar.

IMPACT...Life threatening flash flooding of areas in and around

the Whitmore Burn Scar.

* Some locations that will experience flash flooding include...

Nespelem Community.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

The affected areas are in and below the Whitmore burn scar west of

Nespelem, including Coyote Creek Road, Kartar Creek Road, Summit

Lake Road and Omak Lake Ridge Road. Some drainage basins impacted

include Coyote Creek and Kartar Creek. High intensity rainfall on

the burned area may cause flash flooding, mud slides and rock

slides. Hikers residents, and motorists in and below the Whitmore

burned area should take immediate precautions to protect life and

property.

This is a life threatening situation. Heavy rainfall will cause

extensive and severe flash flooding of creeks...streams...and

ditches in the Whitmore Burn Scar. Severe debris flows can also be

anticipated across roads. Roads and driveways may be washed away in

places. If you encounter flood waters...climb to safety.

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
Just in time for summer, pop duo the Lockyer Boys are back with a brand new single and video 'LATKD' out today on all digital streaming platforms. Watch video here.
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Wilkes-Barre, PA (18701)

Today

Sun and a few passing clouds. High around 80F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Showers early, becoming a steady rain late. Low 63F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall near an inch.
OKLAHOMA

Governor signs the nation's strictest abortion ban

OKLAHOMA CITY  Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt on May 25 signed into law the nation's strictest abortion ban, making the state the first in the nation to effectively end availability of the procedure.

State lawmakers approved the ban enforced by civil lawsuits rather than criminal prosecution, similar to a Texas law that was passed last year. The law takes effect immediately upon the first-term Republicans signature and prohibits all abortions with few exceptions. Abortion providers have said they will stop performing the procedure as soon as the bill is signed.

Abortion providers across the country have been bracing for the possibility that the U.S. Supreme Court's new conservative majority might further restrict the practice.

The bills come on the heels of a leaked draft opinion from the nation's high court that suggests justices are considering weakening or overturning the landmark Roe v. Wade decision that legalized abortion nearly 50 years ago.

The only exceptions in the Oklahoma law are to save the life of a pregnant woman or if the pregnancy is the result of rape or incest that has been reported to law enforcement.

The bill specifically authorizes doctors to remove a "dead unborn child caused by spontaneous abortion," or miscarriage, or to remove an ectopic pregnancy, a potentially life-threatening emergency that occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus.

The law also does not apply to the use of morning-after pills such as Plan B or any type of contraception.

Two of Oklahoma's four abortion clinics already stopped providing abortions after the governor signed a six-week ban earlier this month.

The third Oklahoma bill is to take effect this summer and would make it a felony to perform an abortion, punishable by up to 10 years in prison. That bill contains no exceptions for rape or incest.

WYOMING

Police working with FBI to investigate possible arson at clinic

Casper police are working with the FBI to investigate suspected arson at a Casper clinic that planned to open and provide abortions starting in June.

Investigators found "several areas" inside the clinic where an "accelerant," like gasoline, was used in the fire, according to a May 26 statement. The incident is still under investigation, and surveillance images cannot yet be released.

On May 25, police said they received a report around 4 a.m. from someone living nearby that a person with a "gas can and black bag" was seen fleeing the building. The caller also told police they heard glass break.

Officers arrived and saw smoke coming from the clinic, and called fire crews. Casper Fire Deputy Chief Devin Garvin said the fire was relatively small, and police said it was "quickly extinguished."

Police on the scene said there was extensive smoke damage inside. According to authorities, the fire was on the building's west side  the side nearest to the Sinclair gas station next door.

No one was inside the building at the time, and no injuries were reported.

Burkhart said the clinic's setup was in the final stages, and her team was planning to start training staff.

In addition to the FBI, Casper police are also working with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to investigate the cause of the fire.

Utility gets nod to build 416-mile wind power line across West

CHEYENNE U.S. land managers on May 26 said they've given final permission for a 416-mile transmission line that would connect wind farms in eastern Wyoming with customers in Utah and elsewhere across the West.

The U.S. Bureau of Land Management said it has notified Portland-based PacifiCorp it can proceed with its Energy Gateway South Transmission line. It will run from the Medicine Bow, Wyoming area, across northwestern Colorado and end near Mona, Utah, south of Salt Lake City.

The Biden administration has promoted renewable energy in the West but delivering that power to customers will require major upgrades to the nation's aging electrical grid.

Gateway South is part of a broader plan by PacifiCorps to install roughly 2,000 miles of new transmission lines across the West at an estimated cost of $8 billion.

Construction on Gateway South is expected to begin in June. In August PacifiCorps expects to start work on part of another line, known as Gateway West, that would stretch across 75 miles in eastern Wyoming. said utility spokesperson Tiffany Erickson. The two projects combined will cost an estimated $2.2 billion and they are expected to be in service by late 2024, she said.

ARIZONA

Cops: 500,000 fentanyl pills seized in traffic stop

CASA GRANDE  Two women were arrested after about 500,000 fentanyl pills were found in an SUV pulled over for speeding on Interstate 10 in Arizona, police said.

The pills that were seized were discovered concealed in collagen supplement bottles on May 23 during a search that also turned up a handgun and a large amount of cash, police from the small city of Casa Grande south of Phoenix said in a statement.

U.S. overdose deaths have risen most years for more than two decades. The increase began in the 1990s with overdoses involving opioid painkillers, followed by waves of deaths led by other opioids like heroin and  most recently  illicit fentanyl.

Last year, overdoses involving fentanyl and other synthetic opioids surpassed 71,000, up 23% from the year before. There also was a 23% increase in deaths involving cocaine and a 34% increase in deaths involving meth and other stimulants.

Over a two-month period in Arizona late last year, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration working with Arizona law enforcement agencies made seizures of more than 3 million fentanyl pills, 99 pounds of fentanyl powder and 35 firearms.

In the Arizona traffic stop, two children in the vehicle were turned over to state child protection officials, police said.

NEW MEXICO

Firefighters rescue 'Cinder' the elk calf from fire's ashes

SANTA FE  Firefighters have rescued an abandoned newborn elk calf found amid the ashes of the nation's largest wildfire as calving season approaches its peak in New Mexico and fires rage across the American West.

Missoula, Montana-based firefighter Nate Sink said on May 24 that he happened upon the motionless elk calf on the ground of a fire-blackened New Mexico forest as he patrolled and extinguished lingering hot spots.

"I didn't think it was alive," said Sink, who was deployed to the state to help contain a wildfire that by May 25 had spread across 486 square miles and destroyed hundreds of structures.

It was one of five major uncontained fires burning in New Mexico amid extremely dry and windy conditions.

Wildlife officials in general discourage interactions with elk calves that are briefly left alone in the first weeks of life as their mothers forage at a distance. Sink says he searched diligently for traces of the calf's mother and found none.

The 32-pound, singed bull calf, dubbed "Cinder," was taken for care to a nearby ranch and was regaining strength at a wildlife rehabilitation center in Espanola, north of Santa Fe.

Veterinarian Kathleen Ramsay at Cottonwood Rehab says she paired Cinder with a full-grown surrogate elk to be raised with as little human contact as possible.

"They do elk things, they don't do people things," said Ramsay, noting Cinder arrived at a tender days-old age with his umbilical cord still attached.

Ramsay said the calf hopefully can be released into the wild in December after elk-hunting season.
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Australian CISOs should be on high alert as ransomware continues to pose a grave security risk to organisations, but they shouldnt overlook the threats from supply chain issues, where one breach can have a multiplier effect spurring attacks on many organisations.

The dual threats stand out in whats been an exceptional year in cybersecurity, and not in a good way, with a year-on-year jump in ransomware attacks greater than the past five years combined, according to the latest Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report.

The last year was also notable because of well-publicised critical infrastructure attacks and massive supply chain breaches driven by financially motivated criminals and nation-state actors, the report, now in its 15th year, revealed.

Supply chain joins ransomware as persistent threats for CISOs in Australia

With a collective 13% increase in ransomware, this is something for CISOs, in Australia as elsewhere, to take note of. Cybercrime doesn't have any boundaries and local security chiefs need to keep an eye on global attack trends, Verizon senior manager and head investigative response for APJ Anshuman Sharma says.

With ransomware on the higher side, organisations need to be aware of the four key access points into an organisation credentials, phishing, vulnerability, exploitation and bots, Sharma tells CSO Australia. Now, if we can help and block these most common routes, to a large degree, we'll be able to evade ransomware to greater degree, he says.

Globally, some 40% of the ransomware incidents involve desktop sharing software, which includes Teams, Zoom, Slack and many others. With just over 35% of these breaches involving email to deliver the ransomware, this is a significant attack vector. Basically, if someone can reach their system from anywhere on the internet, so does an adversary, Sharma says.

One positive finding is that organisations appear to be improving how they contain ransomware, noted Verizon security solutions consultant Aaron Sharp, who spent a decade at its Australian security operations centre. If it [a ransomware attack] happens, its only impacting a smaller part of the IT inventory, rather than running rampant, Sharp tells CSO Australia.

Across the board, organisations are also facing the challenge of dealing with risks from their supply chain, with the report finding 39% of data breaches occur through partner organisations, such as services providers and other third parties. However, securing this is easier said than done as this is a significant number, says Jo Stewart-Rattray, Australian Computer Society Community Boards vice president, and one number that CISOs need to be aware of and to have protections in place.

Responsibilities of partner organisations must be enshrined in service level agreements and/or contracts which include what the partner is and will do to protect the client organisations data and the security measures in place including incident response and escalation on the partner side, says Stewart-Rattray.

An incident response approach designed for the operating context and environment that is tested and updated on a regular basis, along with employee checks will ensure the organisation can react and respond to attacks without delay, says Stewart-Rattray.

For CyberEX CISO and president Asaf Ahmad, COVID-19 laid bare supply chain dependencies  including to cyber criminals. They're aware of this and with increases in online activity and digitalisation, threats from partners are becoming bigger and more sophisticated, he says.

Organisations and their partners must have alignment in the security posture at people, process and technology levels. The use of threat intelligence and preventive technologies must be used to mitigate the cyber threats, Ahmad says.

The makeup of security threats in Asia-Pacific

While ransomware and third-party risks are omnipotent threats for all organisations, in the Asia-Pacific region, the report analysed 4,114 incidents, with 283 confirmed data disclosures, and found the majority of incidents were external and involved social engineering, basic web application attacks, as well as more complex scenarios like system intrusion. System intrusion is a bit more of a sophisticated one and requires three to five steps to get into the organisations network, Verizons Sharma says.

Regionally, using stolen credentials is four times more likely to be a method of access than exploiting a vulnerability, the data analysis showed. Verizons Sharp explained that while some of the attack patterns may vary from region to region, the basics remain the same. If you've got good strong authentication, privileged access management, patching, vulnerability management and so on, you're going a long way to prevent those likely attack vectors. And always benchmark where you are and follow the data, he said.

In mitigating these risks, organisations cant overlook basic cyber hygiene, explained Stewart-Rattray, to ensure staff are aware of their rights, roles and responsibilities in relation to security and the data that they handle, create, store and transmit through ongoing education and awareness. Security should be a two-way street, protecting the individual as well as the organisation, she says.

Continual vulnerability scanning, audit and remediation should be at the top of the CISOs technology list, together with having the best platforms that an organisation can reasonably afford to ensure that the appropriate monitoring and altering processes are in place so that security teams are able to investigate anomalous network traffic and behaviour in a timely fashion, she says.

People are still the weakest link

Social engineering attacks continue to be persistent threats for the APAC region as they are for other parts. When it comes to the threat landscape in Australia, people are the weakest link, whether its stolen credentials, phishing, misuse or error, 82% of breaches involved human element. This line of attack is going to stick around for as long as it keeps working for attackers, says Sharp.

People are also our last line of defence, said Ahmad. Recommending a continuous program of training, CISOs must design and execute rightly tailored cyber awareness training, considering the exposure to cyber threats and knowledge of IT and cyber security, he says.

Stewart-Rattray said that education is important but in doing so, CISOs need to ensure that security controls are expressed in non-technical terms without using jargon and to demonstrate how this can help individuals in their personal lives too.

Security training and defences must also take a cross-organisational approach because there are real convergences between cyber security, traditional information security, physical security, risk and assurance and privacy.

If you think of this as a Venn diagram, there is a part in the middle where all of these converge so it makes sense to take a collaborative approach to training and development rather than separate and potentially overlapping awareness raising which will get a big ho-hum from staff. Use of some friendly phishing campaign tools that have an education and feedback component can be really useful too. There really does need to be a Whats in it for me, so look at how you can tailor that to your organisation and its staff, processes and practices, she says.

For Australian CISOs, fundamentals of strong security remain the same

When it comes to what data has been compromised in breaches across the APAC, in large part its credentials (72%), followed by internal information (26%), organisational secrets (18%), and other non-categorised information, the report found.

To help mitigate risks, Sharma says CISOs should understand which particular incidents there have been in their industry. They also need to be aware of what kind of tools, techniques and procedures were used by threat actors in those recent attacks, again pertaining to their industry verticals. Do you have an independent risk profile to help you understand where your exposure lies? And one of the most important is how has the cybersecurity spend changed for your organization? How does it compare to your industry peers? Is it on par, has it increased or decreased? he says.

For Ahmad, CISOs must understand governance and management aspects of IT and how it aligns with the business. CISOs must know how risks are analysed, assessed and how management decisions are made to address the risks. And they must know how best practices are implemented and used and how regulatory compliance is addressed, he says.

Stewart-Rattray says continuous vulnerability scanning, auditing and remediation is vital together with appropriately scoped regular external assessment, which will give an independent view of the threat and vulnerability landscape. Also on her list are robust policy raft, commitment to security from the top of the organisation, education, training and awareness and appropriate tools and platforms.

And the right resources: physical, human and financial are the most obvious. However, this is an everchanging environment and the need for new approaches may only be a heartbeat away, she says.
Lao students meet Chinese culture in Dragon Boat Festival celebration

Xinhua) 15:54, June 05, 2022

VIENTIANE, June 5 (Xinhua) -- A party for Chinese poem recitation on the occasion of the Dragon Boat Festival was held at the National University of Laos (NUOL) here on Friday.

The gathering, providing Lao university students with an encounter with China's rich culture, was organized by China Cultural Center in Laos and collaborated with NUOL.

Hundreds of people, mostly Lao university students, gathered to learn and enjoy the beauty of Chinese poetry, accompanied by songs, music and dances in Lao style.

The Dragon Boat Festival, also called the Duanwu Festival, is traditionally celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth month on the Chinese lunar calendar. People in China usually race dragon boats and eat Zongzi, a sticky rice dumpling wrapped up with bamboo or reed leaves during the festival.

Director of The China Cultural Center in Laos Li Yiping said in the opening speech that she hoped this festive event will become a bridge of friendship to enhance mutual understanding between the people of China and Laos and promote the building of a community with a shared future.

The Duanwu Festival is to commemorate Qu Yuan, a patriotic poet and minister of the ancient state of Chu during the Warring States Period (475-221 BC) in the Chinese history.

As a poet, Qu Yuan is known today for his patriotism and contributions to classical verse. Lines such as "The way ahead is long and has no ending, yet high and low I'll search with my will unbending" are still spread widely.

"This activity not only increased our knowledge of Chinese culture, I also learned a lot about the origin of the Dragon Boat Festival in China, and traditional Chinese poetry," student Phonethip Chanthavong from the Faculty of Letters under the National University of Laos told Xinhua.

She added that the festival reflects Chinese people's love of the poet and also the patriotism of Chinese people.

"It is good to know more about Chinese culture through these kinds of activities," said Phonethip.

A student named Koun Chittasone, who has performed at the event told Xinhua that this celebration provided an opportunity for Lao students to learn and experience Chinese culture.

"I learned a lot from this activity. I learned about the origin of the Dragon Boat Festival and Zongzi in China. I hope this event contributes to enhancing and deepening the friendship between Laos and China," he added.

Head of the Chinese department in the Faculty of Letter under the NUOL Somsanouk Dalavong said this activity breaks the limitation that students absorb knowledge only from books, instead, they can personally understand and experience the Chinese culture and the relationship between Laos and China.

"Through poetry, we can explore and further understand Chinese culture and the stories behind their poems," Somsanouk said.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Bianji)
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WOONSOCKET, R.I. (AP)  Environmental officials are urging residents to avoid a stretch of the Blackstone River after finding that sewage was leaking into the river from a wastewater treatment plant on Sunday.

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management said it's investigating the discharge of partly treated wastewater from the Woonsocket Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility. Officials said they were made aware of the discharge Sunday morning and that it is currently ongoing.
A former resident at Yale New Haven Hospital was among the four victims killed this week in a mass shooting in Tulsa, Okla.

Dr. Preston Phillips, 59, was a resident at Yales Orthopedic Surgery Residency Training program between 1990 and 1996, hospital officials said Friday.

On behalf of the entire Yale New Haven Health and Yale School of Medicine family, we offer our deepest sympathies to the Saint Francis Health System family over the horrific loss of Preston Phillips, MD and his colleagues, Yale said in a statement.

Tulsa police said Phillips graduated from Harvard Medical School in 1990, and completed two fellowships at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston in 1986 and 1996. Besides his medical studies, Phillips also earned degrees in chemistry, pharmacology and theology from Emory University, police said. He was most recently working as a board-certified orthopedic surgeon for Saint Francis Health System in Tulsa with an interest in spinal surgery, joint reconstruction  including joint replacement and the treatment of fractures, police said.

As an academic health institution and as physicians, we must recommit ourselves to finding a better path forward by bolstering support for behavioral health services as we do everything in our power to eliminate the scourge of gun violence in our communities, Yale officials said in their statement.

Phillips was killed Wednesday after a gunman armed with a semiautomatic rifle and handgun stormed into the Saint Francis medical campus. Three other people were killed in the attack before the gunman died by suicide, according to police.

Police identified the other victims of the attack as Dr. Stephanie Husen, 48, Amanda Glenn, 40, and William Love, 73.

Police said the gunman was unhappy with a back surgery procedure Phillips had performed on him in May. In the days leading up to the attack, the gunman had called to complain about the procedure. Hed been seen by Phillips the day before the shooting, but had called again to complain on the day of the shooting, according to police.

The gunman, identified by police as Michael Louis, purchased the AR-15-style rifle he used in the attack just hours before he carried out the shooting.
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WESTPORT  Laureen Haynes has always had a culinary creative side. It started with decorated sugar cookies and turned into artisanal chocolates. But it wasnt until recently that she was able to turn it into a career.

Haynes recently opened Chocolatieree, a craft chocolate shop, at 66 Church Lane. The shops name is a play on her nickname Ree and her new profession  master chocolatier. Its also French for chocolate lab, a nod to her science background and the 25 years she spent in the health care industry working in molecular diagnostics.

Shes now hoping to share her chocolates and some positivity with the community.

You just want to bring a smile to peoples face right now, Haynes said. I think thats something we all really need.

She tends to have six to 10 different types of chocolate in her case at a time, with a mix of milk, dark and white chocolates. There are also usually dairy-free options some with fruit incorporating flavors in season. There are also caramels dipped in chocolate and molded chocolates filled with ganache.

Haynes said shes particular about where she sources her chocolate, opting for organic when possible.

Right now, shes experimenting with how to get a pineapple, mango, jalapeno, mezcal ganache. Some other flavors include blueberry lavender, black sesame mizo, sunflower seed butter, rosewater and lavender honey. She always has the sea salt caramel on hand, she said.

She also likes to incorporate different holidays, with some bourbon and Guinness flavors in the works for Fathers Day.

I try to keep rotating flavors and keep it interesting and try new things, she said.

It can be a days-long process to make each flavor and so the shop is only open Wednesday through Saturday, leaving Monday and Tuesday for production.

While Haynes has always wanted to own her own business, the idea for it to be a chocolate shop didnt happen until she went on two trips with her family. The seed was first planted while visiting the Amazon in Ecuador in 2013. She was able to taste the chocolate and see the fresh cacao pods.

It just opened my eyes to it more and the whole process and where it starts, she said.

The following year, she visited Paris, France with her daughter. The duo went on a self-guided chocolate tour, consulting a map to stop at all of the chocolate shops along the river. Haynes said everything was incredible and tasted delicious.

All of those specialty chocolate shops showed her a possible avenue for the craft that was garnering her interest. She began to wonder that if the U.S. could have craft breweries, craft wineries and craft cheeses  why not craft chocolate?

It put her on a trajectory and she enrolled in a chocolate class to learn the science of it. In 2015 she traveled to Belgium where she studied to become a master chocolatier and sample the chocolate there, learning their ideas and approach.

Not long after she returned, Connecticut passed the food cottage laws, opening the door for her explore the possibility of making craft chocolates for money. While it wasnt enough to make a living off of due to the cap, it was enough to let her get her footing and validate her concept.

Then COVID hit.

Haynes spent the next two years at the forefront of the pandemic response, helping hospitals and labs get the needed testing equipment, including her companys COVID test kits. She was proud to help during the pandemic, but it was also really busy.

It just really took a toll, Haynes said.

She was looking to do something more fun and positive, to help spread some happiness, when she noticed a small shop for lease near her home downtown while out on a walk last year.

She said shes learned over the years to not let opportunities pass by and so called the agent. Haynes moved into the space in October, renovated and outfitted it with her special chocolate equipment and display case and, despite some delays in the supply chain, was able to open around Mothers Day.

This is something Ive always wanted to do so its amazing to have this opportunity and everything fall into place, Haynes said, adding its also surreal.

She said watching peoples faces when they try her chocolates has been her favorite part.

Its been a great experience so far, Haynes said. The response from people has been so positive and encouraging.

She said the business community and the town has also been very supportive.

Haynes said its fantastic to join the growing chocolate community in the area. She said each one offers its own take on the craft, with the shops complementing each other rather than duplicating businesses.

And who knows? Maybe soon people can do their own chocolate tour in Westport like she did in Paris.

Instead of the Seine we have the bank of the Saugatuck, she said.

The shop is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays. Orders can be made online at www.chocolatieree.com or by calling 203-939-7339.
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For congressional candidate Shrina Kurani, cryptocurrency is not only the future of money, its a transformative technology that could revolutionize campaign funding and attract a new generation of voters.

She is among a vanguard of candidates courting campaign contributions in digital currencies such as Bitcoin.

We are a campaign that is speaking to a large part of the population, especially younger people, said the American-born daughter of Indian immigrants, who is on Tuesday's primary ballot as she seeks the Democratic nomination for a congressional seat east of Los Angeles.

Kuranis foray into digital currency to help fund her campaign would not be possible if she were running for the California Legislature or some other office within the state. While the federal government allows political donations in cryptocurrency, California does not, having banned the practice four years ago.

The difference underscores not just the rising popularity of cryptocurrencies but also how regulation varies widely across the U.S.

Some states, including Arkansas and North Carolina, also dont allow for cryptocurrency donations in state races under existing campaign finance laws. Others have followed federal rules for congressional candidates and allow donations with disclosure requirements and contribution caps, typically set at $100. Still other states, including Hawaii, Idaho and South Dakota, have adopted no specific policies around digital currency donations.

Digital currencies offer an alternative that does not depend on banks. Instead, transactions are validated and recorded on a decentralized digital ledger called the blockchain.

Perianne Boring, founder and CEO of the Chamber of Digital Commerce, a trade association representing the blockchain industry, likened the use of cryptocurrency in politics to former presidents Barack Obama using smartphone technology and Donald Trump leveraging social media.

Blockchain technology can increase participation in the political process in a very positive way, Boring said, noting that is particularly true for younger people and members of minority groups who might be skeptical of traditional monetary methods.

Critics say the potential downside is lack of transparency  not knowing who is ultimately behind the donation.

Beth Rotman, director of the Money in Politics and Ethics Program for the nonpartisan watchdog group Common Cause, worries that traceability is more difficult with cryptocurrency.

In campaign finance, you want disclosure. You need backup information, Rotman said. I know (cryptocurrency) is sexy and signals to people that youre a hip new candidate, but there has to be a better way to do it than compromise the other parts of the campaign finance system.

Timothy Massad, a former chairman of the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission, also is concerned about disclosures.

The danger is that this is still, in my mind, a sector where there is insufficient regulation, particularly on the risk of illicit activity and money laundering, said Massad, currently a research fellow at Harvard Universitys Kennedy School of Government.

Cryptocurrency donations have been permitted in federal races for years, after the Federal Election Commission allowed their use in a 2014 opinion.

The commission said political committees should value digital currency contributions based on the market value at the time the donation is received. Candidates also must return contributions that come from prohibited sources or exceed contribution limits.

In the 2017-18 election cycle, cryptocurrency donations reported to the Federal Election Commission came to just over $1.2 million. They have hit about $500,000 so far in the current cycle, which has months to go before the general election.

Shortly after the Federal Election Commission allowed cryptocurrency donations, then-U.S. Rep. Jared Polis, a Democrat, began soliciting them. Now governor of Colorado, Polis is seeking similar contributions as he runs for reelection, with donations in cryptocurrency capped at $100.

Through campaigns accepting cryptocurrency donations, we can show the security, accessibility and the opportunity of using crypto in different types of transactions and also help send the message that Colorado is a home of innovation, said Amber Miller, Polis campaign spokesperson.

As the popularity of digital currencies grows, some states that prohibited cryptocurrency contributions are reassessing.

Jay Wierenga, spokesperson for the California Fair Political Practices Commission, said the agency will reexamine its ban later this year.

The commission is always seeking to keep up with and get ahead of the changing universe around political activity, Wierenga said.

Oregon is one of the more innovative states in elections, having been the first to institute vote-by-mail. But in 2019, Oregon banned candidates campaigning for offices within the state from accepting cryptocurrency donations. That was despite former Secretary of State Dennis Richardson, a Republican, saying they should be considered as a new and innovative way to expand participation.

Two months after Richardson died of cancer in 2019, the Oregon Legislature closed the door to such donations. As the Senate prepared to vote, state Sen. Jeff Golden, a Democrat, said: One of the widely shared objectives of this legislative session is to increase the transparency of money in politics, and cryptocurrency tends to go in the opposite direction.

That feeling isn't unanimous. One of the few state lawmakers who opposed prohibiting cryptocurrency donations was Republican Rep. Bill Post. He said a lot of people in the Legislature simply didn't understand it.

I dont want (us) to sound like a bunch of old fuddy-duddies here, he said. Lets get up to speed on the 21st century.

Jesse Grushack, 30, is one of those voters fond of cryptocurrencies and who supports using them for political contributions. The New Yorker donated to the campaign of Democrat Matt West, a fellow cryptocurrency enthusiast who had a failed bid for an Oregon congressional seat this year.

At this point in American politics, anyone whos pro-crypto is someone I want to support, Grushack said.

Kurani, 29, said her embrace of cryptocurrency is more than just a chance to display her tech credentials. Its also a way to reach those for whom the digital alternatives to U.S. dollars are becoming their legal tender of choice.

She downplays concerns about donor secrecy, saying her campaign converts crypto donations into dollars and pursues the same information  name, address, employer, occupation  that it would for any donor.

We are really making sure that we can represent American people who are participating with new kinds of digital currency, she said.

___

Associated Press data journalist Camille Fassett in Oakland, California, and AP writers Audrey McAvoy in Honolulu; Stephen Groves in Sioux Falls, South Dakota; and Keith Ridler in Boise, Idaho, contributed to this report.
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SEOUL, South Korea (AP)  North Korea test-fired a barrage of short-range ballistic missiles from multiple locations toward the sea on Sunday, South Koreas military said, extending a provocative streak in weapons demonstrations this year that U.S. and South Korean officials say may culminate with a nuclear test explosion.

Possibly setting a single-day record for North Korean ballistic launches, eight missiles were fired in succession over 35 minutes from at least four different locations, including from western and eastern coastal areas and two inland areas north of and near the capital, Pyongyang, South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff said.

It said the missiles flew 110 to 670 kilometers (68 to 416 miles) at maximum altitudes of 25 to 80 kilometers (15 to 56 miles).

Hours later, Japan and the United States conducted a joint ballistic missile exercise aimed at showing their rapid response capability" and strong determination to counter threats, Japans Defense Ministry said in a statement.

South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Gen. Won In-Choul held a video conference with Gen. Paul LaCamera, an American general who heads the South Korea-U.S. combined forces command in Seoul, and they reaffirmed the allies joint defense posture, according to the military in Seoul.

Sung Kim, U.S. President Joe Bidens special envoy for North Korea, also discussed the launches with South Korean officials while on a visit to Seoul. They expressed deep regret that North Korea was continuing weapons development despite grappling with a COVID-19 outbreak at home, Seoul's Foreign Ministry said.

Japanese Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi said none of the missiles fell inside Japans exclusive economic zone.

The launches came a day after the U.S. aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan concluded a three-day naval drill with South Korea in the Philippine Sea, apparently their first joint drill involving a carrier since November 2017, as the countries move to upgrade their defense exercises in the face of North Korean threats.

North Korea has long condemned the allies combined military exercises as invasion rehearsals and often countered with its own missile drills, including short-range launches in 2016 and 2017 that simulated nuclear attacks on South Korean ports and U.S. military facilities in Japan.

Discussing the launches with his national security officials, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol lamented that North Korea was firing missiles at a pace of once every nine days this year. He vowed to strengthen the country's defense in cooperation with the United States, according to his office.

The launches marked North Koreas 18th round of missile tests in 2022 alone  a streak that has included the countrys first demonstrations of intercontinental ballistic missiles in nearly five years.

Experts say North Korean leader Kim Jong Un wants to force the United States to accept the idea of the North as a nuclear power and negotiate economic and security concessions from a position of strength.

South Korean and U.S. officials say there are signs that North Korea is also pressing ahead with preparations at its nuclear testing ground in the northeastern town of Punggye-ri. The Norths next nuclear test would be its seventh since 2006 and the first since September 2017, when it claimed to have detonated a thermonuclear bomb to fit on its ICBMs.

On Friday, Sung Kim, the U.S. envoy, said Washington is preparing for all contingencies in close coordination with its Asian allies. The United States has vowed to push for additional international sanctions if North Korea conducts a new nuclear test, but the prospects for further U.N. Security Council measures appear dim.

Russia and China vetoed a U.S.-sponsored resolution that would have imposed additional sanctions on North Korea over its latest ballistic tests on May 25, which South Koreas military said involved an ICBM on a medium-range trajectory and two short-range weapons. Those tests came as Biden wrapped up his trip to South Korea and Japan, where he reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to defend both allies.

North Korea in March launched an ICBM almost straight up at a full-range and saw it fly higher and longer than any weapon it had ever tested, demonstrating the potential to reach the entirety of the U.S. mainland.

While Kims ICBMs have garnered much international attention, he has also spent the past three years expanding his arsenal of shorter range solid-fuel missiles threatening South Korea and Japan. He has punctuated his tests with repeated comments that the North would use its nuclear weapons proactively when threatened or provoked, which experts say portend an escalatory nuclear doctrine that may create greater concerns for neighbors.

Nuclear negotiations between Washington and Pyongyang have stalled since 2019 over disagreements in exchanging the release of crippling U.S.-led sanctions for the Norths disarmament steps.

Despite deepening economic woes, Kim has shown no willingness to fully surrender an arsenal he sees as his strongest guarantee of survival and is clearly trying to convert the dormant denuclearization talks into a mutual arms reduction negotiation with the United States, experts say.

Kims pressure campaign comes as the country deals with a deadly COVID-19 outbreak across his largely unvaccinated autocracy that lacks public health tools.

GAVI, the nonprofit that runs the U.N.-backed COVAX distribution program, said Friday it understands that North Korea has accepted an offer of vaccines from ally China and has started to administer doses. It isnt immediately clear how many doses of which vaccines the North received or how the country was rolling them out.

___ Asssociated Press writer Mari Yamaguchi in Tokyo contributed to the report.
TAMPA, FLA.  The Connecticut-born woman whose face became the enduring logo of the Gerber baby products brand has died at 95 years old.

Ann Turner Cook was born in Bridgeport in 1926 and spent her early childhood in Westport. Thats where her familys next-door neighbor, artist Dorothy Hope Smith, drew a sketch of her that later won a nationwide contest Gerber was holding to market baby food.

Gerber announced her death in an Instagram post on Friday.

Many years before becoming an extraordinary mother, teacher and writer, her smile and expressive curiosity captured hearts everywhere and will continue to live on as a symbol for all babies, the post said.

Cook later moved with her family to Florida, where she would remain for the rest of her life. She graduated from the University of Florida in Orlando.

Cook had a long career as an English teacher at the Hillsborough High School in Tampa and later became a prolific mystery novelist.

Hope Smith submitted the drawing of Turner Cook in 1928 as part of Gerbers contest to find a baby to represent its advertising campaign.

Artist Dorothy Hope Smith entered her simple charcoal sketch of a tousle-haired, bright-eyed cherub of a baby with endearing pursed lips, according to Gerber. In her entry, Smith noted that she would finish the sketch if she won. Her drawing competed with elaborate oil paintings, but the judges fell in love with the baby face Smith drew, and when they chose it as the winner, they insisted that the simple illustration remain a sketch.

The image was so popular that Gerber adopted it as its official trademark in 1931, using it on its packaging and advertisements.

With the identity of the face behind the iconic logo a longtime secret, speculation ran rampant for decades about who the Gerber baby could be. Many people guessed it may have been movie star Humphrey Bogart, Elizabeth Taylor, Sen. Bob Dole. and Jane Seymour, according to Gerber.

Cooks name was released in the late 1970s.

She told the Tampa Bay Times in a 1992 interview that though she did not receive royalties from the image, she had been given a one-time payment of $5,000 in 1951.

The money was enough for a down payment on Cook and her husbands home in Florida, as well as a car.

All babies are appealing, Cook told the Associated Press in a 1998 interview. The reason that drawing has been so popular is the artist captured the appeal that all babies have.

This story includes reporting from the Associated Press.
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The scenes of miserable chaos at our airports, which for days now have been overrun with desperate travellers unable to get away on much-needed short breaks, are a reminder that it was only in the 1990s that frequent air travel became the norm.

Before then, the idea that you might skip off on a relatively inexpensive flight was unimaginable. The option simply didnt exist: the major airlines were pricey, had all the best slots and flew to far fewer destinations, while cheaper charter flights were often only weekly and routinely required you to travel in the middle of the night.

Oh my, how excited we all were when budget airlines took off. Hen parties in Ibiza, music festivals in Hungary, stag nights in Zagreb  weekends abroad suddenly became a genuine possibility for millions. It all seemed wonderful at the time. But right now? Not so much.

Leaving aside for a moment the damaging effect on the environment from frequent flying, its anyones guess whether I will have succeeded in my personal ambition to be in Majorca by the time you read this.

The scenes of miserable chaos at our airports, which for days now have been overrun with desperate travellers unable to get away on much-needed short breaks, are a reminder that it was only in the 1990s that frequent air travel became the norm

Major airports and airlines that should be delighted travel is back on the agenda after the dark days of the pandemic have instead gone into meltdown, suffering major staff shortages everywhere from baggage handling to cabin crew.

British Airways, which has already cancelled a huge number of flights this summer, seems to have adopted a new customer service policy that involves forcing irate callers to navigate an automated telephone menu  and then cutting the line dead just when you imagine someone might answer the phone. EasyJet, meanwhile, is cancelling flights with almost no notice at all.

The current shambles makes air travel far less appealing than in the pre-budget-flight days. Flying may have been costly and there were fewer places we could travel to. But at least once wed bought our tickets, we could reasonably assume the journey would take place. Sadly, that is no longer the case.

Read my lippy make-up is worth it

Lipstick had a terrible pandemic. It became fairly pointless while everyone was either stuck at home or wearing a face mask as soon as we walked out of the front door  so sales predictably plummeted.

But as so often in fashion, a sharp and sudden decline has been followed by a mighty fightback. As normal life resumes, sales of lipstick are up across the board  and its not just any old lippy were buying.

The latest lipsticks are not only cosmetics, but beautiful works of art. Take, for instance, the new Dries van Noten range with two-tone ceramic refillable cases. Or the Hermes lipsticks that arrive in the brands signature orange packaging. Expensive they may be. But when you consider the cost-per-wear and the pleasure you get every time you look at them, theyre worth it even at north of 50. If nothing else, its something to cheer you up when youre stuck at the airport.

Haunted by a tartan torment

Watching the delightful home movies and family pictures of the Queens childhood brought back memories of having to wear the same clothes as my sister when we were young. The two Princesses were always dressed in matching outfits  meaning a blooming adolescent Elizabeth had to wear the same kit as Margaret (above left, with Elizabeth in 1941), still just a small child.

Parents delight in dressing their children in the same clothes for reasons I cannot fathom. Yet few children share that delight. As any parent will know, children care deeply about their clothes. They have a very real sense of what they want to wear  and usually its not the same as a younger sibling. In my case, having to wear school uniform was nothing compared to the misery of being dressed along with my younger (and more dainty) sister in identical tartan trousers, tweed 60s shifts and floral shorts.

Like the Royals, we still have countless unfortunate photographs bearing witness to that invidious state of affairs.

Watching the delightful home movies and family pictures of the Queens childhood brought back memories of having to wear the same clothes as my sister when we were young

The twins heading for double trouble

Just hours after marvelling at those newly released Royal home movies, I was in a queue for the till at Boots and standing in front of me were a pair of adult, male, identical twins.

They were huge  over 6ft tall and well-built  and wore exactly the same clothes: camel waterproof jackets, black trousers and brown boots, along with identical hairstyles and beards.

Choosing to look that way, one assumes, is no longer their parents responsibility, so it must be theirs. But how does it come about? Do they live together? Do they make joint decisions each morning on what the outfit will be? Do they buy two of everything? And can it really be true that twins dont feel that burning sibling desire to dress in their own individual styles?

M&S pinks dont leave me tickled

What is it about M&S and pink? They just cant get it right. Theres so much about the store to love; last week alone I was tempted by a 5 commemorative tin of Platinum Jubilee shortbreads and a very pretty cashmere cardigan. The only problem was that the cardigan was pale blue and I was in search of pink.

There certainly was pink in the store. Masses of it, in fact. But while M&S is brilliant when it comes to neutrals and denims and even blues (greens, slightly less so), for some reason a palatable pink is too much to ask. Its pinks always look cheap, whether a sickly Germolene colour or tinged with orange and more of a (sorry) common coral.

Its pastel pinks are too washed out and its deep pinks, below, are too brash. Look to India, M&S  they know how to do it.

What is it about M&S and pink? They just cant get it right. Theres so much about the store to love

Now Ocado delivers a pointless platitude

An email arrives from Ocado informing me its going to help me live my best life. I wish it wouldnt. What I really want from Ocado is to have Andrex in stock when I need it and to start offering the classic, soft green lettuces that make the best pairing with a vinaigrette.
A fashion brand creator with chronic health issues has brand that produces adapted clothing for disabled people.

Victoria Jenkins, 36, from Islington, London, is the founder of Unhidden, which subtly tweaks popular styles to make them suitable for people with a range of needs, like trousers specifically tailored to fit wheelchair users.

There is also a layered dress to give easy access to stoma bags and shirts that open at the arm to make the shoulder and upper arm area accessible to people who need IV drips or other treatments like chemotherapy.

Victoria, who previously worked for brands like Victoria Beckham, has a number of conditions including inflammatory bowel disease, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth and irritable bowel syndrome, which cause symptoms including stomach pain, tiredness, bloating, and a change in bowel habits.

She made the decision to start Unhidden to help others like her, who also struggle to wear tight clothing and with dressing, after seeing someone with a stoma needing to remove their clothes to receive treatment.

Victoria Jenkins, 36, from Islington, London, is the founder of Unhidden, which subtly tweaks popular styles to make them suitable for people with a range of needs, like trousers specifically tailored to fit wheelchair users

Victoria has designed Unhidden's clothing with discreet and hidden adaptations, compared to medical adaptive clothing, meaning that most people cannot see them it looks like everyone else's clothing

She realised there were very few clothing options for disabled people which were not loungewear or pyjamas and wanted to create clothes to give them back their dignity.

'My stomach expands and contracts throughout the day and it cannot tolerate being restricted, for example in tight woven fabrics with no stretch in a waistband,' she told FEMAIL.

'Anything that might cut in or restrict movement is a nightmare for me and anything that requires a lot of twisting around to get it on I cannot twist so if I cannot pull it on or the fastening is not on the side I cannot wear it.'

Victoria graduated from London fashion school Istituto Marangoni and landed a job at a number of brands including Victoria Beckham.

However she found an overall lack of understanding towards her medical needs.

All of Unhidden's clothes are made from deadstock/surplus fabric left over from other brands that would otherwise have gone to landfill. The clothing, shown here at London Fashion Week, includes wrap tops that can be tied at the front or back which have winged sleeves for ease of arm movement and silk shirts which allow access to arm ports

Victoria said the problem of inclusivity in the fashion industry is a 'huge problem' to fix but said 'someone's got to start somewhere'

'There were a few days I just felt really unwell and I spent quite a lot of time seeing a lot of doctors,' she said. 'They [her employers] weren't always great about it. It's like nothing could ever be late or delayed because of it.'

After her stay in hospital in 2012 when a stomach ulcer burst and she was later diagnosed with conditions including gastroparesis, IBS and IBD, she felt she was often a burden to the team.

It became increasingly difficult and frustrating for Victoria, even when she worked remotely.

'They absolutely checked up on you. That in itself was very stressful because obviously it was people trying to prove you are doing something.

Victoria's collection has featured at London Fashion Week and she is passionate about inclusivity, working with models with disabilities to showcase her clothing, aiming for accessibility within fashion. Pictured is one of her pieces at London Fashion Week

She added: 'When you're getting really sick some of the time you just want to say "Can't I just be sick?"'

Victoria made the decision to go freelance in 2017 and founded Unhidden.

Although running her own business is stressful, she explained that being her own boss also has its bonuses.

'I have good and bad days running Unhidden,' she said. 'Because I work from home sometimes I need to have a bath. Sometimes I'll just need to lie down for an hour and I can do that because I work for myself.'

There has been an Unhidden pop-up shop in Oxford Street in 2021 and is available to buy online.

The wrap tops can also be used for discreet tube access and wheelchair users. The adaptations to the clothing are subtle and look like everyone else's clothing, allowing for dignity and differing to medically adapted clothing

Unhidden pieces cost between 30 and 90. Victoria hopes to bring down the price point once she can afford factory minimums for production runs.

The designs are made from deadstock/surplus fabric left over from other brands that would otherwise have gone to landfill.

Victoria also hopes to bring a change to the fashion industry as a whole.

She said: 'I think there needs to be some kind of mandate or policy change. I think fashion businesses need to be far more transparent on how many disabled employees they have.

'I know I never saw a wheelchair user anywhere that I've ever worked. They've done so much when it comes to mental health but not disabilities. I think they have lots of mental health first aiders that they train. Capitalism is quite ableist in itself.'
An Instagram-famous cat from the Ukraine has scooped an honorary prize at the World Influencers and Bloggers Awards (WIBA) in Cannes.

Stepan, 13, who has 1.3 million followers on the platform, is best known for amusing photos featuring his signature grumpy poses, which are posted by his loving owner, Anna.

He's also strutted the real-life catwalk, appearing in an advert for fashion label Valentino. In March, the pet was forced to escape war-torn Ukraine, finding safety and refuge in France, with the help of WIVA.

Since finding refuge, Stepan and Anna have raised more than 7,000 for charity in an effort to provide aid for animals affected by the war, with funds split between the charities Happy Paw, UAnimals, Mykolaiv Zoo, XII Months and Plyushka.

The charity endeavours have now seen the caring cat given an award by the WIBA, which turned its annual ceremony this year into a gala raising money for Ukraine.

Insta-cat! Stepan, 13, from Ukraine, has more than a million followers on Instagram: His owner, Anna, who was forced to flee her home country, has recently used the moggie's profile to raise funds to help other displaced pets

After a tumultuous few months, Stepan was once more seen in a picture recently featuring one of his trademark casual poses, sitting next to a glass of wine and his WIBA award

Posting about the win on Instagram, Anna shared a picture of Stepan sitting in a trademark pose, with his furry elbow on a table, with a caption that said: 'Celebrating the victory! Thank you all for your support!'

The pussy's fans were delighted, not only by news of the victory, but also to see one of the cat's traditional-style photos on his profile.

Among the comments on the photo, which garnered 283,000 likes, was one which said: 'YAY! Stepan this is just like old times! I have missed that elbow on the table look.'

Another added: 'Stepan is back to his old form!'

And a third agreed, writing: 'STEPAN!! This warms my heart and brings tears to my eyes. I know your new norm is still painful but thank you for doing this pose for all of us.'

Thousands commented on an Instagram post shared by Anna and Stepan, which showed the celebrity moggy posing with his award

Stepan went viral earlier this year after his Instagram account went dark between March 3rd and 15th, prompting fans to worry that the cat and Anna may have been hurt or killed by attacks on Kharkiv, where they lived.

However, on March 16th, Anna took to the platform to reassure followers, and let them know Stepan and she were safe, and had found refuge in France after leaving Ukraine.

A post featuring images of Stepan looking scared in his travel bag and on a train was accompanied by a long caption detailing the gruelling journey from Ukraine.

Fans were worried about Stepan and Anna earlier this year when their Instagram account went dark amid the war in Ukraine. After a two-week silence, Anna update their followers with a message letting them know the pair had been forced to flee the country

The Instagram post Anna shared in March, letting fans know she and Stepan were still alive, included this photo of Stepan hiding in a coat during their gruelling journey to France

'On February 24, early in the morning, we were sleeping at home. At 5am, some explosion was heard, and I didn't even understand what it was,' she said.

'After a while, after half an hour later, there were more explosions, the windows trembled. I jumped up and understood that something terrible was happening!

'The attack and shelling of Kharkiv (especially on the North Saltovka where we live). We realized that the war had come to our house.'

The post also described their gruelling journey, saying: 'We got on the train Kharkiv - Lviv (in 20 hours, we got to Lviv). Then we followed to the border with Poland.

'At the border, we stood in a line in a pedestrian crossing. There were a lot of people (4-5 thousand). After 9 hours, we crossed the border.

'When we reached Poland, we were offered help from the World Influencers and Bloggers Association from Monaco.

'They helped us get to France to wait for the very day when we could return home. We're all right now. We worry very much about our relatives in Ukraine and will do the very best we can to help our country.'
My friend Andrea from Belfast came to stay with me for the weekend. At the airport, she texted: 'What is your favourite brand of champagne? I know you are really fussy.'

I replied: 'Andrea. I got engaged to a man who doesn't own a teaspoon. Any will be fine.'

It was so nice to spend a couple of days with someone normal, ie, not a man. She helped with the horses and took Mini on lots of special walks, although Missy wouldn't go: 'It was so funny, she got to the end of the path that turns down to the abbey and just stopped. Then we walked back, and she wanted to go in and see the stables. Then she wanted to go home. She'd done as much walking as she wanted to! She's a girl who knows her own mind and I admire that.'

Andrea paid for dinner. She is so interesting and well-travelled, we talked for hours. She appreciated the beauty of the place and kept taking photos. She didn't say, on a dog walk, four seconds in, 'That looks suspiciously like a slope.'

Liz Jones describes her perfect weekend when her friend Andrea came to visit from Belfast before it was ruined when she opened her email inbox

But it being a Sunday, I logged on to my email and, as is the norm, it was full of people telling me off.

First, the estate agent, charged with selling my rented cottage, said it wasn't useful for me to write about it online. Online! I'm not a blogger, I am in an actual, you know, physical magazine.

I replied that there is more to being a landlord than taking rent to pay your mortgage, and that heating might have been an idea.

Then I got an email from David, who is blocked, so I have absolutely no idea why I can still see his emails (Nicola?! Siri?!).

He wrote: 'Hi, I hope you get this. I'm distressed. It's upsetting to hear that you cannot wear the beautiful dress I bought you. I don't understand why it wasn't exchanged for the correct size at the time. Please take it to a dressmaker and have it altered to fit. Let me know the cost and I will be happy to pay for it. Love, David.'

Jesus H Christ. He is obviously still listening to my podcast, in the latest edition of which I was joking about what I should wear to a formal do at Claridge's. I had mentioned the Dries van Noten dress with the gold inlay, which he did indeed buy for me, and I might have said that it was 'Size Fat'.

It was a just a throwaway comment. A joke. More an indictment of my own body  starved since I was 11, a breast reduction aged 29  than a criticism that he bought the wrong size.

Problem is, people can't see beyond themselves. It's as if the whole world is glimpsed through a teeny porthole that only allows them to see what concerns them, and never the big picture.

He doesn't think, well, she has a job, it isn't about me. And, Jesus, Liz bought me an N Peal cardigan with a contrasting collar and I let it get all screwed up and riddled with holes from moths. Oh, and a gold ('plated', as he kindly pointed out) Dunhill lighter that I just lost in the Plaza Athenee because I'm careless*. Let's allow this one to slide.

Maybe he thinks he's being helpful. Maybe he's jealous that I've moved on. Who knows? But why not just cheer me up with something funny, rather than whine about something 'I bought you' years ago?

Anyway! Tomorrow, I'm meeting the Rock Star at the Talbot Inn, which is in the foodie capital of Yorkshire. He's on his way up to Scotland. I have booked a table in the bar, having warned the proprietor that I'm vegan and will have four collies with me, two of whom are incontinent. I'm hoping he's booked a room

*At the time, he blamed me for hurrying him up as I was in a taxi downstairs
It all started with a letter from Tendring District Council in Essex to the beach hut owners of Clacton-on-Sea, Walton-on-the-Naze and Frinton-on-Sea. Hut owners, stated the communication, must address Beach Hut adaptations which fall outside the existing specification and licence conditions.

Rampant speculation ensued among local owners as to exactly which of the pimped up huts had triggered this clampdown, with attention focusing on a vivid turquoise, stencilled hut called Breakfast at Tiffanys, which many believed had upset the traditionalists. In addition to taking issue with garish colours and souped-up verandas of the huts in their jurisdiction, Tendring officials were also getting tough on the lucrative market in private leasing (for around 200 a day) without council permission. This brouhaha in Essex is in no way isolated but rather speaks to a craze which has gripped the nation since the pandemic began and shows no sign of abating this summer  the quest to secure a little bit of beachfront.

When Anna*, a 31-year-old brand consultant, moved to Broadstairs, Kent, last year, it wasnt long before she fell for the same local feature as everyone else: the bays colourful curve of beach huts. I thought it would be so nice to have one, she says. She stopped to speak to the tenants, who politely told her that they get interest from passers-by every day  and the news isnt good. They said theres a nine-year waiting list. To get a beach hut, you basically have to wait for someone to die.

There are around 20,000 beach huts in the UK, and popular now more than ever. A beach hut in Mudeford Spit, in Bournemouth recently sold for 570,000

Its not simply that securing a Broadstairs hut takes serious patience  theres strategy involved too. You cant put your name down generally. You have to pick a hut and get on the waiting list for that specific one, continues Anna. Insider information on the current tenants, then, can be valuable: Theres a lot of, I heard Maureen in hut 34 was complaining about the fees going up  put your name down for it.

There are around 20,000 beach huts in the UK, and theyre hotter property than ever. Our seaside towns have surged in popularity since foreign travel was limited by Covid; Southend Pier, for example, had more than 74,000 visitors last August  its highest number since records began. Demand has soared, confirms Lee Betchley, an estate agent with Hose Rhodes Dickson on the Isle of Wight.

Its not surprising, then, that prices of beach huts increased by 41 per cent in 2021. Three or four years ago you could pick up a beach hut in a prime location on the Isle of Wight for 5,000 or 6,000, says Betchley. Youre now looking at anything between 18,000 and 25,000, and people gazump all the time. In some areas, prices might lead you to believe you were buying on the Cote dAzur rather than coastal Britain: a small hut in Abersoch, North Wales, recently sold for 200,000. In Southwold, Suffolk, a property three metres wide with a small veranda was listed for 250,000 and has also sold. To be clear, these are not holiday homes: huts dont have electricity or running water, and most councils dont allow owners to sleep in them.

Mudeford Spit, in Bournemouth, has an occasional exception to that rule  buy a hut there and you can sleep in it eight nights a year. Youll pay for the privilege: one recently sold for 570,000. The estate agent Denisons manages most hut sales in the area, and reports that they always go to auction, with at least 10 buyers on standby all year round, poised for something to come up.

There's a nine-year waiting list. You basically have to wait for the owner to die

If you cant get a foot on the beach-hut ladder, in some areas theres the option to rent  but even this is tricky. In Gower, South Wales, Swansea Council holds a lottery every summer to hire out huts in Langland Bay; but even so, a local resident confides, Im desperate for one. Everyone I know applied this year and was unsuccessful. The council says demand has always been high but has increased since the pandemic  this year saw more than 1,000 applications for 80 huts.

INSIDE THE MOST EXPENSIVE HUT Inside Britain's most expensive beach hut, which was sold to a cash buyer at 570,000 It measures 13ft by 10ft, is made from timber and has no mains electricity, toilet or washing facilities. But in 2022 Britain's most expensive beach hut, Hut 180 on Dorset's Mudeford sandbank sold at 570,000 - to a cash buyer. The, hut which can sleep six people between April and October, is an 'outstanding location' looking out on to the Isle of White from the front, yet can't be accessed by car and is a 20-minute walk from the nearest road. Inside, the 'high spec' layout includes a fitted kitchen with a water heater run using solar panels on the roof and an oven powered by a gas bottle. The seating area can be converted into two double beds, and there's a set of steps leading to a mezzanine level where two more people can sleep. Washing facilities are in a neighbouring communal shower block. Advertisement

Given the difficulty of purchase, its hardly surprising that people want to personalise their huts when they secure them (although Tendring owners might want to think twice before giving full vent to their creative impulses). Betchley owns a share of a hut on the Isle of Wight with his family; they bought it 25 years ago for 900. Its a lot of fun, he agrees. People here paint their huts in candy stripes and deck them out: one I sold recently was decorated in a vintage style and the owners had a wind-up gramophone.

But along with the pretty pastel paint, the sundowners and the bunting can come some pretty strong opinions. In Felixstowe, Suffolk, owners of historic beach huts (supported by actor and comedian Griff Rhys Jones, who is president of the Victorian Society) are feuding with the council who want to move them off the promenade to other locations. The furious owners have now applied for listed status for their huts.

And woe betide those who dont behave in a fashion becoming a hut owner. In Worthing, Sussex, a woman was evicted from her hut last year after owners of nearby huts complained of loud swearing, music and horn-honking when she visited in her car.

Even if you do manage not to upset your neighbours with an out there colour scheme or an overambitious deck, there are the financial add-ons to be navigated. Chances are youll have ground rent to pay, and may need a licence. Denisons explains that in Mudeford Spit, owners pay the council 4,000 to 5,000 a year. Owners are also responsible for maintaining their huts, and sometimes even replacing them when they become too weathered by wind and sea spray. The local authority on the Isle of Wight does an annual inspection, and you will get a letter if your roofs in disrepair, says Betchley.

If youre hoping to buy, huts often hit the market in the autumn. Just move quickly, he advises. You dont make offers on huts  go in fast, at the asking price. When asked if his family will ever sell theirs, Betchley laughs and says no  because to give up this Great British dream, youd have to be mad.
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Social media users last night went wild for 'impeccably behaved' and 'adorable' Princess Charlotte and Prince George as they sang along with their parents at their first concert - but others said they looked bored stiff at the Platinum Party in the Park.

Princess Charlotte, seven, and Prince George, eight, were attending the event outside Buckingham Palace as part of the four-day Platinum Jubilee celebrations for the Queen's 70 years on the throne.

Throughout the concert, which started at 8pm, the camera panned to the youngsters in the royal box, sometimes singing and dancing and often waving flags as they watched a star-studded line up including Sam Ryder and Diana Ross with their parents the Duke, 39, and Duchess of Cambridge, 40.

William and Kate's youngest child Prince Louis, three, did not attend last night's event, after putting on an adorable display of cheeky faces and speaking animatedly to his great-grandmother on the first day of her Platinum Jubilee celebrations at an RAF flypast on Thursday.

Princess Charlotte, seven, and Prince George, eight, attended the event outside Buckingham Palace as part of the four-day Platinum Jubilee celebrations for the Queen's 70 years on the throne

There were mixed reactions to the pair online as many thought that they were well-behaved, considering that the event had started at 8pm and the family attended after visiting Cardiff Castle to watch preparations for another concert within the grounds

There were mixed reactions to the pair online as many thought that they were well-behaved, considering that the event had started at 8pm and the family attended after visiting Cardiff Castle to watch preparations for another concert within the grounds.

But others thought they looked bored and tired, watching the concert after such a jam-packed day.

The young family sat alongside the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall at the event.

Prince George was filmed belting out the lyrics to Sweet Caroline as Sir Rod Stewart performed on stage in one of many adorable moments at the star-studded concert.

Many celebrated the young royals, calling them 'exceptional' and said that they did the Queen proud during the long concert for her Platinum Jubilee

One person wrote: 'Lovely celebrations eh, Charlotte and George looked adorbs during the concert.' Meanwhile, another person quipped: 'Charlotte and George are such a mood'.

And others celebrated the young royals, calling them 'exceptional' and saying that they did the Queen proud.

Another person penned: 'It was an amazing night in every sense of the word' and remarked on the fact that the experience of watching the show would be a 'wow' experience for them.

Even social media users worldwide enjoyed the concert, with one Canadian tweeter writing: 'That was a beautifully produced show. We are loving it here in Canada. Little George was adorable. and so is Charlotte. They are such a lovely family.'

A separate commenter wrote: 'I love how Prince George and Princess Charlotte sang along with their parents.'

One Twitter user slammed people for saying that the young royals looked 'bored', and wrote: 'Stop panning to Prince George and Princess Charlotte just to catch them looking bored and fidgety - give them a break'

But others thought they looked bored and tired, watching the concert after such a jam-packed day visiting Cardiff Castle with their parents to watch preparations for another special concert

But not everyone was as convinced that the young royals were enjoying the show.

Remarking on their ages, one Twitter user wrote: 'Well said - only recognised Queen and Elbow so far but aware the concert has to cater for wide age range- do reckon that Princess Charlotte and Prince George would be better off at home- poor wee things look bored and tired.'

Another penned: 'My favourite parts of the queens jubilee party thing is when they cut to show Prince George and Princess Charlotte looking bored out of their little minds.'

Meanwhile a third said: 'Must be getting close to George and Charlotte's bed times. Let's get the cameras on them as they start to kick off from being over-tired and bored.'

Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall, Zara and Mike Tindall and Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice and their husbands were also in attendance at last night's concert.

Prince Edward and Sophie Wessex, who yesterday carried out engagements in Northern Ireland, also watched on from the stands, along with their children Lady Louise Windsor, 18, and James, Viscount Severn, 14.

Prince William, 39, and Kate Middleton, 40, brought along their two eldest children as the Royal Family turned out in force for the historic concert in London

The Duchess of Cambridge and Princess Charlotte waved their flags as they sung along to some of the performers

Seven-year-old Princess Charlotte looked delighted and pulled faces as she took her seat next to her big brother George

Kate Middleton sung along to one of the performances as the concert got underway at Buckingham Palace on Saturday

Princess Anne, who yesterday attended the Epsom Derby with her children and their respective partners, took her seat next to her husband Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence.

The Queen's eldest grandchild Peter Phillips brought along his daughters Savannah, 12, and Isla, 11, who waved flags as the concert got underway.

The Royal Family turned out to show their support for the Queen as she celebrates 70 years on the throne. While she was forced to miss out amid ongoing health struggles, she still managed to steal the show by starring opposite a computer generated Paddington Bear in a hilarious sketch to open the concert.

Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle did not attend the concert in person, and instead are believed to have watched the event in Windsor with the Queen.

Prince William quoted Louis Armstrong's song 'What a Wonderful World' as he paid tribute to the Queen's efforts to help the planet during an environment-themed speech in front of Buckingham Palace for the Jubilee concert.

The Duke of Cambridge praised his grandmother for her 'hope' in the future of the planet during a segment of the Platinum Party dedicated to the environment and featuring Sir David Attenborough.

Prince William, who was greeted to the stage by people screaming 'we love you', also said he 'feels so proud' of his father Prince Charles, 73, and his late grandfather Prince Phillip for their work in championing the natural world.

He echoed the Queen's words from her speech to the Cop26 UN Climate Change summit, when she said working together in a 'common cause' always gave rise to hope.

Prince Charles later took to the stage where he paid a moving, personal tribute to the Queen, calling her 'Mummy' and thanking her for being there for the nation in good times and bad for 70 years.

The Duke of Cambridge praised his grandmother for her 'hope' in the future of the planet during a segment of the Platinum Party dedicated to the environment and featuring Sir David Attenborough

His father, The Prince of Wales, took to the stage afterwards and told how the Queen had laughed and cried along with the country through the decades, as he hailed her 'lifetime of selfless service'
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The royal Cambridge children have joined their mother, Kate Middleton, in baking cakes for a Cardiff street party, which is taking pace today to mark the Queen's Platinum Jubilee.

Adorable pictures posted online by the Duchess and Duke of Cambridge, showed Prince George, eight, Princess Charlotte, seven, and Prince Louis, four, making the treats in their kitchen ahead of the family's visit to the Welsh capital yesterday.

'Baking cakes for the local community in Cardiff to enjoy at a Platinum Jubilee street party taking place today! We hope you like them!, read the caption.

In the photos, the three children could be seen mixing the ingredients together before icing the cupcakes with the Duchess, who sported a 129 Brora pink gingham blouse.

The royal Cambridge children have joined their mother, Kate Middleton, in baking cakes for a Cardiff street party, which is taking pace today to mark the Queen's Platinum Jubilee

Adorable pictures posted online by the Duchess and Duke of Cambridge, showed Prince George, eight, Princess Charlotte, seven, and Prince Louis, four, making the treats in their kitchen ahead of the family's visit to the Welsh capital yesterday

'Baking cakes for the local community in Cardiff to enjoy at a Platinum Jubilee street party taking place today! We hope you like them!, read the caption.

Union Jack bunting could be seen hanging around the kitchen, while Charlotte was busy cracking eggs and Louis used a sieve to add in the flour to the cake mix.

George, meanwhile, could be seen helping his sister add in the ingredients. He wore a casual blue T-shirt and matching shorts for the baking session.

His brother Louis was in a similar T-shirt but with light blue shorts, while Charlotte wore a pink top with navy shorts before swapping into a white and blue striped T-shirt.

Yesterday George and Charlotte - for her first royal engagement - joined their parents for a visit to Cardiff Castle in Wales.

Missing was Prince Louis who stole the show when he appeared on Buckingham Palace's balcony with his family and the Queen after the Trooping the Colour ceremony on Thursday.

In the photos, the three children could be seen mixing the ingredients together before icing the cupcakes with the Duchess, who sported a 129 Brora pink gingham blouse

George, meanwhile, could be seen helping his sister (pictured) add in the ingredients. He wore a casual blue T-shirt and matching shorts for the baking session

His brother Louis was in a similar T-shirt but with light blue shorts, while Charlotte wore a pink top with navy shorts before swapping into a white and blue striped T-shirt. Pictured, the family together

The family met performers and crew involved in a special Platinum Jubilee Celebration Concert taking place within the grounds of the castle, including Bonnie Tyler and Owain Wynn Evans.

William and Kate seemed to encourage their shy-looking children to shake hands and introduce themselves to dignitaries as they arrived in the Welsh capital. It is believed to be George and Charlotte's first official royal visit.

The Cambridges and their children were also introduced to a number of West End performers, Rubicon Dance Company and the Wales Youth Choir for Good.

Reaction: Social media users were delighted to see the photographs shared online this morning and were quick to comment on the images

The Cambridges seemed in high spirits as they left Cardiff Castle yesterday afternoon following their appearance

The family appeared as tight-knit as usual as they arrived in Cardiff ahead of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations in Wales

Last night, George and Charlotte again joined their parents, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, during the Queen's Platinum Party at Buckingham Palace.

The family joined the nation in singing along to acts including Alicia Keys, Duran Duran and Craig David. Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall, Zara and Mike Tindall and Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice and their husbands were also in attendance.

Prince Edward and Sophie Wessex, who earlier that day carried out engagements in Northern Ireland, also watched on from the stands, along with their children Lady Louise Windsor, 18, and James, Viscount Severn, 14.

Princess Anne, who today attended the Epsom Derby with her children and their respective partners, took her seat next to her husband Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence.

The Queen's eldest grandchild Peter Phillips brought along his daughters Savannah, 12, and Isla, 11, who waved flags as the concert got underway.

The Royal Family turned out to show their support for the Queen as she celebrates 70 years on the throne. While she was forced to miss out amid ongoing health struggles, she still managed to steal the show by starring opposite a computer generated Paddington Bear in a hilarious sketch to open the concert.

Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle did not attend the concert in person, and instead are believed to have watched the event in Windsor with the Queen.

Prince William quoted Louis Armstrong's song 'What a Wonderful World' as he paid tribute to the Queen's efforts to help the planet during an environment-themed speech in front of Buckingham Palace for the Jubilee concert.

Prince William, 39, and Kate Middleton, 40, brought along their two eldest children as the Royal Family turned out in force for the historic concert in London

Kate Middleton sung along to one of the performances as the concert got underway at Buckingham Palace on Saturday

The Duchess of Cambridge and Princess Charlotte waved their flags as they sung along to some of the performers

Seven-year-old Princess Charlotte looked delighted and pulled faces as she took her seat next to her big brother George

The Duke of Cambridge praised his grandmother for her 'hope' in the future of the planet during a segment of the Platinum Party dedicated to the environment and featuring Sir David Attenborough.

Prince William, who was greeted to the stage by people screaming 'we love you', also said he 'feels so proud' of his father Prince Charles, 73, and his late grandfather Prince Phillip for their work in championing the natural world.

He echoed the Queen's words from her speech to the Cop26 UN Climate Change summit, when she said working together in a 'common cause' always gave rise to hope.

Prince Charles later took to the stage where he paid a moving, personal tribute to the Queen, calling her 'Mummy' and thanking her for being there for the nation in good times and bad for 70 years.
Peter Phillips has arrived at the Platinum Pageant alongside his girlfriend Lindsay Wallace - marking the third outing together over this Jubilee weekend.

Yesterday he made his public debut with Lindsay at two separate events to mark the Queen's 70-years on the throne, a year after divorcing his wife Autumn.

The 44-year-old, who is the monarch's grandson, attended the Platinum Jubilee concert yesterday night outside Buckingham Palace with Lindsay, 40, who is a family friend and daughter of an oil tycoon.

They watched acts including Diana Ross, Queen, George Ezra and Elbow at the celebration, which took place on the third day of the festivities.

Peter and Lindsay sat in the royal box alongside his daughters and senior members of the firm including Prince William, The Duchess of Cambridge and the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall.

Peter Phillips has arrived at the Platinum Pageant alongside his girlfriend Lindsay Wallace - marking the third outing together over this Jubilee weekend

Peter Phillips and Lindsay Wallace attended The Epsom Derby at Epsom Racecourse yesterday, in their first public appearance as a couple

The 44-year-old, who is the Queen's grandson, also attended the Platinum Jubilee concert yesterday night outside Buckingham Palace with Lindsay, and chatted animatedly to his mother Princess Anne in the Royal Box

Today, Lindsay opted for a bright pink number, while yesterday she kept her blonde locks loose, wearing them wavy as she sported a blazer and white top for the event.

Peter, who shares daughters Savannah, 11, and Isla, 10, with his ex-wife, was photographed speaking to his mother Princess Anne along with Lindsay during yesterday's concert.

Royals were seen waving flags and singing along to 'Sweet Caroline' during last night's event.

Peter and Lindsay also attended the Epsom Derby earlier yesterday, in their first public outing, joining hundreds of other racegoers at the event.

Lindsay dazzled in a long-sleeved coral Victoria Beckham dress, which she paired with white shoes and a white clutch, while Peter looked dapper in morning dress.

They were seen smiling and chatting animatedly as they watched the action with Princess Anne and Zara and Mike Tindall. At one point, Peter also placed a protective arm on a grinning Lindsay's shoulder.

The Princess Royal was grinning from ear to ear as she arrived at Epsom Racecourse for the Derby Day to stand in for Her Majesty the Queen, who is watching the horse racing from home at Windsor Castle after pulling out of another Jubilee event.

Today, Lindsay (centre right) opted for a bright pink number, while yesterday she kept her blonde locks loose, wearing them wavy as she sported a blazer and white top for the event

Lindsay dazzled in a long-sleeved coral dress, which she paired with white shoes and a white clutch, while Peter looked dapper in morning dress

Ms Wallace did not attend the Queen's Service of Thanksgiving at St Paul's Cathedral on Thursday but her new partner joined royals including the Duke and Duchess of Sussex and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at the event.

Peter's new love is a family friend and attended the 40,000-a-year school in Gordonstoun, Scotland, a school which was also attended by Prince Charles and Prince Philip.

She went to the school alongside Zara Tindall and is said to 'cherish' her friendship with the royal, having attended her wedding in 2011.

It is understood Ms Wallace, an oil tycoon's daughter, and Mr Phillips became close after a school reunion spending time together following the breakdown of both of their marriages.

Mr Phillips finalised his divorce from wife Autumn in June, 16 months after announcing their separation in February 2020.

Lindsay is understood to be separated but not divorced from her husband.

They were seen smiling and chatting animatedly before they went to watch the action at the Epsom Derby

At one point, Peter also placed a protective arm on a grinning Lindsay's shoulder as they spoke during the event yesterday

Peter and Autumn share daughters Savannah, 10, and Isla, nine, and continue to live on Princess Anne's Gatcombe Park estate, in Gloucestershire.

Mr Phillips made headlines in March last year when he was spotted visiting Ms Wallace's home in St Cyrus, near Montrose, Aberdeenshire, sparking concerns he had breached lockdown restrictions to make the 460-mile round trip from his Gloucestershire home.

Locals called the police when they saw his car at her home.

Speaking in March last year, a source said the pair have been 'keeping things under wraps' and 'only the inner circle knew about this friendship'.

At the time the royal insisted the trip to Scotland was made as a marketing consultant for company XF Medical, set up last June to provide rapid Covid tests and antibody tests for businesses, although sources said he was 'besotted' by Ms Wallace.

Officers 'issued advice' but Peter said he was staying there overnight while on business, leading Police Scotland to conclude he was not breaking lockdown rules that only allowed 'essential travel' to the country. He had reportedly visited Ms Wallace in August 2020.

Eight months later, he showed he was serious about his new relationship when he brought Ms Wallace as his date to his nephew Lucas's christening.

The couple were photographed in a car together ahead of the Royal Family gathering.

Ms Wallace (next to Peter, left) did not attend the Queen's Service of Thanksgiving at St Paul's Cathedral on Thursday but her new partner joined royals including the Duke and Duchess of Sussex and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at the event.

Peter's new love (left) is a family friend and attended the 40,000-a-year school in Gordonstoun, Scotland, a school which was also attended by Prince Charles and Prince Philip

It is understood Ms Wallace and Mr Phillips became close after a school reunion spending time together following the breakdown of both of their marriages (pictured behind Prince Charles and Princess Anne)

Elegant in a cream coat and black hat, Ms Wallace was in the front seat by his side as he drove his 4x4 into the grounds at Windsor and looked down at her lap as cameras snapped photos of the royal arrivals.

A spokesman for Mr Phillips confirmed at the time that Ms Wallace, 40, had accompanied him to the joint christening of Zara and Mike Tindall's son, Lucas, and Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank's son, August, in Windsor.

In January, the Queen's grandson Peter Phillips introduced his girlfriend to his grandmother, according to reports.

The father-of-two reportedly introduced his new partner Lindsay to Her Majesty following a shooting party which was held at Windsor.
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The Countess of Wessex looked stylish in green and white while in Windsor for the Big Jubilee Lunch on The Long Walk today.

Mother-of-two Sophie, 57, was today meeting the public in Windsor alongside Prince Edward as part of the Queen's fourth day of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

With her hair scraped back in a neat pony tail, the countess opted to wear white flared trousers and a white top with a bright green blazer over the top.

Around 3,000 people, mainly from Windsor and surrounding areas attended the lunch, sitting at a line of 488 picnic tables that measured 800 metres long, making it the largest street party in the UK over the four-day festive period.

The Countess of Wessex looked stylish in green and white while in Windsor for the Big Jubilee Lunch on The Long Walk

Sophie, 57, was today meeting the public in Windsor while at The Long Walk as part of Queen Elizabeth II's fourth day of the platinum jubilee celebrations

Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex, meets people taking part in the Big Jubilee Lunch on The Long Walk as part of celebrations marking the Platinum Jubilee of Britain's Queen Elizabeth, in Windsor

Sophie's look today comes after a weekend of stunning dresses, from her pretty in pink dress and hat at St Paul's Cathedral to her white lace dress at the concert on Saturday night.

The Earl and Countess of Wessex joined thousands of the Queen's neighbours for a huge 'long lunch' on the Long Walk outside the gates of Windsor Castle on the final day of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

Around 3,000 people, mainly from Windsor and surrounding areas attended the lunch, sitting at a line of 488 picnic tables that measured 800 metres long, making it the largest street party in the UK over the four-day festive period.

Prince Edward and his wife Sophie walked along the long line of picnic tables to speak with enthusiastic revellers, who did not let the gloomy weather dampen their spirits.

As a dog lover, Sophie, took some time out of her walk to give some love to a red coated canine, eager for some attention and a scratch behind the ear

The Earl and Countess of Wessex joined thousands of the Queen's neighbours for a massive 'long lunch' on the Long Walk outside the gates of Windsor Castle on the final day of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations

Familiar face: Prince Edward points at a cardboard cutout of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II as he interacts with people taking part in the Big Jubilee Lunch on The Long Walk

Decked out in red, white and blue clothing, Union Jack hats and waving pictures of the Queen, picnic goers braved the windy weather and overcast skies to commemorate her 70 years on the throne.

They had to bring their own food and munched on sandwiches, crisps and even roast dinners as they sipped an assortment of drinks, from quintessential British tea to champagne as they watched the Jubilee Pageant on giant screens that had been erected on the Long Walk.

The royal couple appeared in good spirits as they were mobbed by excited picnic goers as they strolled along the Long Walk.

The picnic got underway at 1pm with Prince Edward and Sophie arriving an hour later. Both spent more than an hour talking about the Platinum Jubilee, the picnic and what people were eating. Sophie said the Queen was 'fine I think but I've not seen her today'.

After making their way along the Long Walk's 'long picnic' the Royal couple were then treated to a performance by children of a song specially written for the Platinum Jubilee.

The Countess of Wessex is seen during the Big Jubilee Lunch with members of the local community seated at 'The Long Table' on The Long Walk, Windsor Castle

Sophie, Countess of Wessex looked graceful in green as she spoke to a young girl in a makeshift crown during the event in honour of the Queen

Prince Edward's wife, Sophie, the Countess of Wessex is seen during the Big Jubilee Lunch with members of the local community

She spoke to a number of Children in cardboard crowns as she appeared at the event in a white jumpsuit and emerald green blazer

Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex speaks with people as they take part in the Big Jubilee Lunch on The Long Walk as part of celebrations marking the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II

Thousands of others not lucky enough to win tickets for seats at the picnic tables, which were allocated via a ballot and given out for free, laid out their own blankets nearby as they joined in with the festivities.

Organisers claimed that the 800-metre-long line of picnic tables was not an official world record as they were not laid out in one continuous line and had small breaks between them.

Lisa Hunt, event manager said: 'We could have gone for the world record but that's not what this picnic is about.

'It's amazing that so many people have come out to celebrate the Queen's Platinum Jubilee. It just shows you how we feel about her. It's our way of saying thank you for her devoted services. This is a big thank you from the local community to Her Majesty but the whole country feels the same way.'
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Pippa Middleton has sparked speculation that she is expecting her third child with husband James Matthews following her appearance at the Queen's Platinum Jubilee Party.

The 38-year-old younger sister of the Duchess of Cambridge stepped out in a lime green frock with ruched detailing across the chest for the star-studded night out at Buckingham Palace.

But some royals fans suggested the ensemble showed off a growing baby bump - while Page Six claimed Pippa is pregnant, with a source reportedly telling the outlet that the couple are 'so happy' and she is a 'natural mama'.

Pippa - who attended yesterday's event alongside her parents Carole and Michael Middleton - married former professional racing driver James, 46, in 2017 and together they already have two children, three-year-old son Arthur and one-year-old Grace.

Despite not being members of the Royal Family, the Middletons were able to bag much sought-after tickets to the concert celebrating 70 years of Her Majesty's reign. Pippa didn't appear to be joined by her husband.

A representative for Pippa Middleton said: 'There is no comment on the speculation.'

Pippa Middleton has sparked speculation that she is expecting her third child with husband James Matthews following her appearance at the Queen's Platinum Jubilee Party

Commenting on the photographs of Pippa from the outing, one person wrote: 'It certainly looks like Pippa Middleton is pregnant. I didnt want to be the first to say it and start any rumours.'

In keeping with her laid back style, Pippa wore her brunette locks in loose curls and kept her makeup to a minimum. She finished the ensemble with a few well-chosen pieces of jewellery, including a delicate necklace.

Meanwhile her mother Carole opted for a crisp cream blazer and wore her hair in a fresh blow dry. Michael was typically dapper in a suit and tie.

The Duchess of Cambridge has maintained a close relationship with her parents, brother, sister and their families, even as her role within the Royal Family has become more demanding.

In keeping with her laid back style, Pippa wore her brunette locks in loose curls and kept her makeup to a minimum. She finished the ensemble with a few well-chosen pieces of jewellery, including a delicate necklace

Reaction: Commenting on the photographs of Pippa from the outing, one person wrote: 'It certainly looks like Pippa Middleton is pregnant. I didnt want to be the first to say it and start any rumours.'

Meanwhile her mother Carole opted for a crisp cream blazer and wore her hair in a fresh blow dry. Michael was typically dapper in a suit and tie

Despite not being members of the Royal Family, the Middletons were able to bag much sought-after tickets to the concert celebrating 70 years of Her Majesty's reign

The Middletons are often quiet pillars of support at high profile moments in Kate Middleton's life, including the recent carol concert at Westminster Abbey.

The Royal Family turned out to show their support for the Queen as she celebrates 70 years on the throne.

While she was forced to miss out amid ongoing health struggles, she still managed to steal the show by starring opposite a computer generated Paddington Bear in a hilarious sketch to open the concert.

The Queen brought the house down when she was joined for a cream tea by Paddington.

For the 2012 Olympic opening ceremony, James Bond famously made an appearance with the Queen - and now it was the turn of everyone's favourite Peruvian bear - who was filmed alongside the monarch.

The Queen revealed she shares Paddington's love of marmalade sandwiches and keeps an emergency stash in her trademark handbag.

The film was shown as the star-studded party in the shadow of Buckingham Palace began, and the Queen and her furry guest had a novel way of introducing the first act - tapping out the beat of Queen's We Will Rock You on China teacups.

Prince George and Princess Charlotte, who earlier made a surprise visit to Cardiff Castle with their parents for a Jubilee event, were sat in the front row of the royal box for the concert alongside the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall.

Members of the Royal Family joined them in the VIP seats, as did politicians including Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

Prince William, 39, and Kate Middleton, 40, brought along their two eldest children as the Royal Family turned out in force for the historic concert in London

Prince Edward was joined by his daughter Lady Louise Windsor at the Buckingham Palace party on Saturday night

Princess Beatrice, Princess Eugenie and their husbands joined members of the Royal Family at the star-studded concert

Sophie Wessex, elegant in a white eyelet dress, took her seat next to Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence and Princess Anne

Prince George looked delighted as he watched the concert with his father the Duke of Cambridge
So, Tony Blairs eldest child, Euan Blair, now 38 years old and proud owner of a 22 million London townhouse (two-storey iceberg basement, indoor pool, gym and multi-car garage) and a business worth over 700million, wants us to know that going to university is not the only way to become rich and successful.

Even though he did actually go to university himself  not really enjoying studying at Bristol and Yale  and then became really, really rich, setting up the Multiverse training provider business after leaving his first job at the investment bank Morgan Stanley.

More recently, Blair junior has been lobbying the Government to consider scrapping exams and university degrees for many people, suggesting that bodies like his own apprenticeship programme (did I mention Euan went to university in England and attended the best university in the U.S.?) would provide a better way into a lucrative and useful career.

Despite Blairs Oxford-educated Prime Minister fathers three priorities back in 1997 being education, education, education, Euan still isnt convinced.

Tony Blair's eldest child Euan, 38, (pictured) has been lobbying the Government to consider scrapping exams and university degrees for many people. Euan suggests that 'an obsession with academic as a marker of potential and talent' is actually holding people back in the modern age

An obsession with the academic as a marker of potential and talent holds back people from minority groups and fails to serve the needs of employers in a digital age. Work for Google or Facebook, go for a tech start-up, get into coding or join a hedge fund, reckons Blair, and your Classics degree isnt going to help you.

As a higher-education refusenik, still gainfully employed, Im not so sure. I share a lack of college education with the likes of Alan Sugar, Simon Cowell, Karren Brady and Richard Branson, all of whom went straight from the school desk to shop floor and then got very rich. The only difference between me and Lord Sugar being somewhere around 1.21billion.

Yes, I know that Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg, worth $125billion and $71.5billion respectively, were both college drop-outs, but now, some 40 years after leaving school, I harbour profound shame and regret at my pathetic lack of ambition and a feeling I disappointed parents who worked so hard to get me there.

After I left school at 16, my mum kindly suggested it would be quite funny if I had one of these IDONTGOTO UNIVERSITY sweatshirts. I laughed it off and never let on that, inside, my failure to achieve was killing me. But would I have done any better if I had graduated... or at least turned up and got a genuine university T-shirt?

UK-based journalist Simon Mills (pictured) counters Euan's argument, admitting that he wishes he had gone to university

I attended a public school in Hull, but being disruptive and lazy, was asked not to come back after my O-levels, of which I achieved six. Pretty crumby grades in four of them, but straight As in English Language and English Literature.

Humiliated in front of a teacher panel, I cried at the gates but quickly took advantage of the sudden opportunity. With two friends, I left Yorkshire for the south of France and spent an idyllic long summer as a deckhand on a luxury yacht in Antibes. Now my eyes were open. I was 17 and I wanted much more of this.

I harbour profound shame and regret at my lack of ambition

Back in Yorkshire I attended a state college and got three A-levels. Again, an A in English Literature. Mostly to appease my parents, I half-heartedly applied for a few universities but didnt really see it through.

Actually, I was devastated not to be going. My friends were living it up in gothic and corduroy-ish places such as Edinburgh and Oxford. I wanted to be there too, reading English literature and dressing like Sebastian Flyte in Brideshead. But the word student was actually a pejorative term back in the 1980s, when squares from university were thought to be ruining everything just by their tweedy collegiate and therefore privileged presence.

So I took the easy way out and didnt go, styling out my non-attendance by telling people I wanted to get straight to work (I didnt really).

Anyway, the moment was gone. My friends all had a years head start on me. So after some profoundly undignified messing around and claiming unemployment benefits for six months, I did a Dick Whittington; packed my bags, hitchhiked to London and decided to become a journalist. With A-levels like mine, how difficult could it be? Behind the till in a series of shops to get some money in my pocket, I applied by handwritten letter to the magazines I wanted to work for.

Euan Blair suggests that academia acts as a marker of potential talent and that this should be changed

Nothing. So I tried another route. Finding their addresses, I simply strolled up to the front door and rang the bell, asking each receptionist if I could talk to the editor. Incredibly, they all said yes, perhaps impressed more by my audacity than my journalistic experience... of which I had none.

By the age of 21, it was now me who had a head start on my friends. They were doing their finals  I was writing for magazines like The Face and i-D. By 22 Id added the popular Smash Hits and Just Seventeen to my roster, regularly travelling to New York and Los Angeles to do interviews. At 25 I was made editor-in-chief of a successful teen glossy and at 27 I was the deputy editor of a Sunday broadsheet newspapers colour supplement.

But I couldnt help noticing that all around me, wherever I worked, were smart, nonchalantly bookish people with degrees, spouting informed political opinions and myriad literary references.

All around me were smart, bookish people with degrees

At the newspaper, pretty much everyone had been to Oxford or Cambridge. Even the Smash Hits editor, whose job was dealing with silly articles on Blue Mercedes and Strawberry Switchblade, had been at Oxford with one Tony Blair.

I was painfully aware of always being the least educated person in the room. Somehow, I got away with it. Where did I go? School of Hard Knocks, then the University of Life. Graduated with honours, Id say if anyone asked.

To this day, people still ask that question. And still, the shame lingers. Among my friends, we are split 50/50 in terms of people who did and who didnt go to university. The non-Us tend to work in fashion, design, music, as property dealers and entrepreneurs. The graduates are bankers, lawyers and doctors. They are all a lot richer than me.

Not that I am more than a little besotted with everyone elses success, of course. Then again, maybe Euan Blair is right and that 40-something years on, perhaps my own obsession with the academic as a marker of potential and talent is still holding me back...
Anne and Charlie are absolutely thrilled to be expecting a child. After many years of costly fertility treatment, tears and deep sadness, the couple are close to realising their dream: their daughter is due to be born at the end of September.

Yet this is no conventional pregnancy  their biological child is being carried by a surrogate from Ukraine who has fled her home and is now living with the couple in Norfolk. Svetlanas home is in Zaporizhzhia, in south east Ukraine. The city contains a nuclear power plant and was an early target of Russian bombing. It is 120 miles from Mariupol, the port town thats been razed to the ground.

Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine this would happen, Anne, 45, tells me.

Svetlana, who is 33, and the single mother of a seven-year-old son, arrived in the UK six weeks ago. It is, clearly, an intensely difficult situation for them all, but they have settled in well.

Svetlana, 33, arrived in the UK six weeks ago with her seven-year-old son. The Ukrainian refugee is the surrogate mother for Anne, 45, and Charlie also 45

We live in the same house but still message by phone, says Anne, who works in education, while husband Charlie, 45, is a printer. Svetlana likes to rest in her room, be on her phone and sleep a lot. She also joins in with the family. They eat together most evenings, taking turns to cook.

Svetlanas son is set work every day by his school in Ukraine. He does about six or seven hours a day studying, says Anne. Mother and son share a bedroom. We offered him a room, but he has bad dreams so she wants to be close to him, says Anne. He can tell you all about the war. The trauma goes deep.

We never expected to have any involvement with the pregnancy  other than possibly going over there for a scan at week 20. So its been amazing to be close, to go to the appointments, scans and to watch her get bigger.

Anne took Svetlana on a shopping expedition for maternity clothes. I said: Ill buy you anything you like.

The first shop we came to was Primark and she found a few things she liked, which I got. But she said: Clothes are expensive. I replied: This is pretty cheap as clothes go. But I could see she was a little uncomfortable with the prices.

I told her: We want you to feel pretty, independent, comfortable. You need clothes, and Im happy to get you anything you want.  In the end, Svetlana chose a sweatshirt from a charity shop.

Ukraine has around 50 per cent reproductive clinics and numerous agencies that act as middle men, matching couples with egg donors and surrogates. The war has thrown this system into chaos

When we got home I went onto Gap online. They had a sale and I just bought loads of maternity clothes and had them sent here. Luckily, they didnt have the prices on. I said: Everything was in the sale. Keep anything you want, as much as you want. She kept about nine things and was very happy.

Anne is keen to show her visitors key tourist attractions. She recently took them on a weekend trip to Stonehenge, Longleat Safari Park and the nearby Roman Baths.

Svetlanas had a lot of sickness during the pregnancy, and, as much as she loved the trip, she didnt fare well in the car. We had a lot of vomit stops. She now says she doesnt want to go anywhere.

But Anne has been able to be more hands- on, literally, than she expected. Ive felt the baby move!

Svetlana is happy for Anne to put her hands on her stomach. But Anne is conscious not to do it too much as Svetlana hasnt yet told her son about the pregnancy.

Like many surrogates, she had planned to keep the pregnancy a secret from her child. When the bump got big, Svetlana would have left her son with her mother, moved to Kyiv in preparation for the delivery and returned home with a flat tummy. But that was before the war, and now thats a conversation that needs to be had.

What takes you to surrogacy is years of loss and heartache

The other side of living with someone who is carrying your baby is they dont necessarily do everything you would, Anne continues. For instance, when I finally got pregnant I was so careful with what I ate. If I had any meat it would be organic chicken. Svetlanas buying the lowest-grade meat. I dont think she realises theres a difference. But its fine. I treated my body like a temple and it didnt work; shes had babies that are healthy and survived.

This extraordinary story started back in November when the couple flew to Kyiv, where the reproductive clinic is based, to deliver Annes eggs and Charlies sperm. This produced two healthy embryos ready for implanting.

We really liked Kyiv, but didnt spend much time exploring it because we thought wed be back, says Anne. The couple planned to spend seven weeks in the city when they returned for the birth.

The clinic matched the couple with Svetlana. They met via Zoom in December. Shes very kind and I had a good feeling immediately, says Anne. An embryo was transferred into Svetlana on January 5. Then Anne had the dreaded two-week wait for the pregnancy test. I was in the car with a school friend about to go on a walk when I got the message Svetlana was pregnant, she recalls. I just burst into tears. I couldnt believe it.

But then, of course, Russian troops started gathering on the Ukrainian border.

I was getting increasingly concerned, but the clinic said: No problem here, everything is fine. The next week, I emailed saying: Im becoming a little more alarmed. They replied: No, everything is fine. 

On the morning after Russia invaded, Anne woke early and scrolled anxiously through the headlines on her phone. Bomb here, bomb there, three near the city where she lives. They were just everywhere. I felt sick to my stomach.

Svetlana was nine weeks pregnant. The early weeks of pregnancy are a worrying time for any woman, as the risk of miscarriage is high. Anne suddenly found her longed-for baby was also in a war zone.

The clinic matched the couple with Svetlana. They met via Zoom in December. Shes very kind and I had a good feeling immediately, says Anne

Commercial surrogacy  paying a woman to carry a child  is illegal in most of the world, but not in America and Ukraine. (The UK permits only unpaid surrogacy.)

In America, surrogacy costs around $100,000 (80,000). But in the last decade, Ukraine has emerged as a far cheaper alternative. The cost usually ranges from 30,000 to 60,000 (around 25,000 to 50,000). Each year, an estimated 2,000 to 2,500 babies are born via surrogacy in Ukraine.

Using a surrogate overseas is a controversial practice and the war in Ukraine has heightened the complex ethical questions surrounding it.

For those who employ a surrogate, its often their last chance at motherhood after a long, hard battle to have a child. What takes you to Ukraine is years and years of loss, grief and heartache, says Anne. Its not an easy decision.

For Anne and Charlie it has taken nine years to get this far. They started trying for a child soon after they met in 2013, when they were both 35.

Anne already has a son, Henry, 20, who is now at university.

Ive always pictured myself with two children. It was just finding the right person to have that child with. And then I met Charlie. But she struggled to get  and stay  pregnant. She had two miscarriages in two years. They were advised to try IVF. The fact she had had Henry meant they would have to go private.

One round in a local clinic cost 6,000 and didnt work. In 2019, they tried again, this time in Spain. The couple produced four viable embryos. The first was transferred at the end of 2019, but Anne miscarried at six weeks.

By then, the pandemic was spreading and countries were closing their borders. In July 2020, when flight bans were lifted, Anne flew to Spain for the second transfer.

Sam Everingham is global director of Growing Families, a non-profit organisation which gives free advice to parents, surrogates, families and experts. He is helping to evacuate babies from Ukraine  28 so far  mostly to Poland, but also Moldova and Romania

It was successful, but her little daughter was born too soon. She arrived at 23 weeks on December 19, 2020, weighing just 1.5 lb. She died five weeks later.

We had to have a tiny funeral because of Covid, says Anne, tears rolling down her face. Ive never felt pain like that. But even after the death of our daughter, I tried again. I was just so hell-bent on doing it.

She went back to Spain last August. I miscarried straight away. I felt like my life had ended. I didnt want to go on. I took to the sofa and would have happily gone to sleep and not woken up.

A doctor had previously suggested surrogacy, but they had discounted it as too expensive.

Theyd already spent more than 40,000 on fertility treatment when Annes parents stepped in. They saw how traumatised I was and said: Well help you do this. 

A few weeks later, the couple signed up with a small agency in Kyiv.

The surrogate gets paid around 20,000 (around 17,000). Which doesnt sound like a lot, says Anne, However, Svetlana was earning less than 2,000 (1,700) a year [from her sugaring hair removal business]. So the fee was roughly ten times her annual income.

It was her surrogates second time  shed previously carried twins for a French couple  which Anne found reassuring. Emotionally we knew shed dealt with handing the babies over and was happy to go through it again.

The couple opted for a guaranteed package, which cost 49,000 (around 42,000) and Anne finally felt she was nearing the end of a very long, brutal road  but adds: Obviously, I was not expecting war to break out.

Ukraine has around 50 per cent reproductive clinics and numerous agencies that act as middle men, matching couples with egg donors and surrogates. The war has thrown this system into chaos.

Sam Everingham is global director of Growing Families, a non-profit organisation which gives free advice to parents, surrogates, families and experts. He is helping to evacuate babies from Ukraine  28 so far  mostly to Poland, but also Moldova and Romania.

It takes at least a week for infants born in Ukraine to be granted an emergency travel document, and then parents are faced with having a complete stranger care for their newborn in a country under attack, as well as submitting the baby to a 12-36 hour evacuation on dangerous roads.

Of the 100 or so desperate couples Sam is helping, 22 are British. Annes biggest fear was that her surrogate would disappear and the agency wouldnt be able to find her. Not because she wasnt willing to stay in touch; rather, there was talk of Ukrainian phone lines and internet services going down, she says. Anne had to act quickly. She had previously found Svetlana on Facebook. I hope you dont mind me contacting you, she wrote on the day after the Russian invasion. Were just thinking of you and hope you and your son are OK. Much to Annes relief, Svetlana replied straight away. Dont worry about the baby, she said. The baby is good, Im looking after it. Im healthy, were safe.

And then Svetlana added: Theyve invaded our area, theyre going to take the nuclear power station. If its OK with you, I am going to friends in Poland.

I couldnt have been more thrilled she was leaving, Anne recalls.

The next day, Svetlana, her son, mother and brother, who is 14, set off for Szczecin in Poland, via Lviv, a 1,127-mile journey that took three days, by train, bus and on foot. Anne waited anxiously by her phone, obsessively watching TV news coverage of the war.

The journey to escape was brutal; she cant talk about it

Svetlana turned off her phone to save the battery, but shed message every so often: Dont worry, were strong. But on that final day we didnt hear anything from her. Her battery must had died.

The journey was brutal. Svetlana still cant talk about it  I cry too much, she says. She is sensitive and very caring and I dont think she wanted me to worry, says Anne. In the early days of pregnancy youre tired and feel sick. Youre supposed to be looking after yourself, not fleeing for your life.

After Svetlana and her son went to Poland, Anne applied for a visa to bring her to the UK. Surrogates in Ukraine who are pregnant for British families were granted special three-year visas to come with their immediate families before the Governments Homes for Ukraine scheme started.

At the end of March, Anne flew to Poland and met Svetlana for the first time. I wanted to meet her before she came to England so she felt comfortable with me. I was nervous and excited. Its really hard to know what to feel, what to do.

I was conscious that shed had to leave everything behind and pack her life into two tiny suitcases, which is heart-breaking. She sent me a video of her son watching TV with this one cuddly toy. Anne arrived with painting sets, dominoes, playing cards and Lego.

Svetlana, then 13 weeks pregnant, was booked in for a scan at the hospital. Anne wanted to be there, too. Because surrogacy is not encouraged in Poland, they pretended it was Svetlanas baby. The scan confirmed the baby is a girl. Anne had to hold in her tears of joy: I couldnt cry because it would have looked odd.

On April 8, Anne set off by car to collect Svetlana and her son. I didnt want her to fly because I lost a baby after a flight.

Before she left, Anne bought a new double bed and filled her spare room with fresh flowers and a basket of toys.

Svetlana is welcome to live here until the baby is born and beyond that  its completely up to her. If she decides to stay in England, well help her find somewhere to stay, but her intention is to go back to Ukraine as soon as possible.

In the meantime, says Anne: Im just happy shes safe.
Hilton Food Group is also involved in providing sustenance to consumers, but in a rather different way from Loungers. Originally known as a meat packer for Tesco, the group still derives most of its sales from preparing red meat for big supermarket chains  from juicy steaks to low-cost mince.

In recent years, however, Hilton has branched out, moving into new parts of the world, such as Australia, Scandinavia and Eastern Europe, and into new food, including fish and vegan products.

Today, more than three-quarters of Hilton's sales come from overseas and a growing proportion of turnover comes from produce other than meat.

On a plate: In recent years, Hilton Food Group has branched out, moving into new food, including fish and vegan products

Earlier this year, for instance, chief executive Philip Heffer bought Foppen, a Dutch smoked salmon specialist founded more than a century ago. Other recent deals include the acquisition of Dutch vegan group Dalco and Fairfax Meadow, the biggest supplier of meat to the catering trade.

Whether Hilton is selling burgers to Tesco, haddock fillets to Waitrose, vegan patties to sandwich chain Subway or smoked salmon to discount retailer CostCo, the group focuses on building strong relationships with large, established businesses, from supermarket groups to fast-food chains and pubs.

The approach has stood Hilton in good stead over the years and should do so even more in future. Longstanding arrangements with customers allow Heffer to pass on most extra costs as they arise, sophisticated supply chain tools insulate Hilton from raw material shortages and state-of-the-art technology makes the group one of the most efficient and lowest-cost operators in its field.

Offering a wide range of products in a variety of countries is helpful too. If consumers want to tighten their belts, they can buy cheap cuts rather than prime fillets.

And, even if some parts of the world are really feeling the pinch, others are more sanguine. Above all, everyone still needs to eat. In a trading update last month, Heffer acknowledged that the outlook may be challenging, but remained confident about Hilton's growth prospects.

Brokers share his confidence, forecasting a 9 per cent increase in sales to 3.6 billion for the calendar year 2022, a 12 per cent rise in profits to 76.5million and a 9 per cent increase in the dividend to 32.5p.

Midas verdict: Midas first recommended Hilton in 2008, just after the business was floated on the stock market, when the shares were at 1.70. By 2013, the stock had risen to 3.05 and we suggested there were still gains to be had. The shares have more than tripled since then to 10.62, having been as high as 13 just a few weeks ago. The recent decline is overdone. Existing investors should hold on to their shares. New investors could also find value at current levels.

Traded on: Main market Ticker: HFG Contact: hiltonfoodgroupplc.com or 01480 383333
Mover: Debbie Crosbie is taking the helm of Britain's largest building society

Nationwide's new chief executive is expected to reassure members of Britain's largest building society its branch network is safe in her hands.

Debbie Crosbie, who takes over this week as the first female chief executive in the mutual's 175-year history, closed hundreds of bank branches in her job running TSB.

But The Mail on Sunday understands she plans to confirm a landmark pledge by Nationwide to maintain its 625 branches into next year at least  and may extend the commitment.

Nationwide bosses believe customers need branches more than ever  saying they use the premises not just for access to cash but also, increasingly, for face-to-face financial counselling and advice as they grapple with the unprecedented squeeze on household budgets.

A renewal of the vow by Crosbie is likely to soothe worries among Nationwide's 16.3million members and its staff over the future of branches. The mutual made its 'branch promise' in 2019. The pledge has since been extended from May 2021 to January 2023.

The current commitment is to leave no town or city currently served by Nationwide without a branch. The society admits there are occasional circumstances making it impossible to keep a branch open. However, it has shut branches at a much lower rate than the Big Four banks.

Crosbie's predecessor, Joe Garner, told The Mail on Sunday last week that Nationwide's mutual status meant it was well placed to help members deal with the cost-of-living crisis.

'The key difference is that many of our competitors are trying to find ways to close branches, while we are trying to find ways of keeping them open,' he said.

Banks are expected to shut around another 500 branches this year.

TSB, which is owned by Spanish bank Sabadell, closed 244 branches during the pandemic when Crosbie was in charge. Another 70 will go this year, meaning more than 300 will have shut in three years. Like its rivals, TSB blames 'declining branch use' and the growing trend to bank online.

Crosbie also has other issues to face  not least customer complaints. Consumer group Fairer Finance says the number of cases about Nationwide upheld by the Financial Ombudsman has crept up to a 'massive' 49 per cent, well above the industry average.

'Nationwide was always much better than that, so I'm not sure what's going on there,' says Fairer Finance's managing director James Daley.

John Cronin, banking analyst at stockbroker Goodbody, thinks Crosbie will bring 'deep experience' of managing change to Nationwide. 'She orchestrated a remarkable turnaround in financial performance at TSB,' he said.

Earlier this year, The Mail on Sunday revealed that Nationwide had held talks to buy TSB but initial discussions stalled. 'One wonders whether Crosbie will seek to reignite the conversation,' Cronin added.
Lost allure: Matt Moulding with his wife Jodie. Inset, THG's share slump

Hut Group boss Matt Moulding faces a shareholder revolt at the online retailer's annual meeting on Friday over conflict of interest accusations involving one of its directors.

It will be the first chance for shareholders to quiz the firm's founder and chief executive in person since THG's controversial stock market flotation in 2020.

The company, whose shares have fallen by 76 per cent in the past year, is a takeover target for bidders including property tycoon Nick Candy. Investment firms Belerion and King Street Capital tabled a 2billion joint proposal last month.

Investors are uneasy that Belerion's founder, Iain McDonald, is also a non-executive director at THG. Shareholder advisory firm ISS is recommending that investors vote against his re-election.

ISS questioned his independence given his longstanding relationship with Moulding and finance boss John Gallemore, having served alongside the pair for 12 years. Another advisory service, Glass Lewis, also urged shareholders to oppose his re-election, saying McDonald was an 'affiliate or insider' on the pay committee.

THG said it would 'not be in the best interest' of the business for him to leave the pay committee.

It has also brushed off the takeover approaches. McDonald has already faced criticism for his role as both a potential bidder and THG board member.

After his bid emerged Clive Black, a retail analyst at Shore Capital, said: 'How on earth can you be a non-executive director and party to a potential bid? It just brings smoke and mirrors to mind.'

It is the latest in a series of governance grievances to rock the business. These include Moulding's golden share, which allows him to block takeover bids.

He has agreed to surrender it and has also stepped down as chairman following investor objections. THG is now chaired by City heavyweight and ex-ITV boss Charles Allen.

Founded by Moulding in 2004, THG sells skincare, make-up and supplements, and its brands include Lookfantastic and Myprotein.
Dividends paid by cheque to shareholders are being axed by fund manager Abrdn  in the latest move towards a cashless society.

Instead, any dividends will be paid directly into shareholders' bank accounts. About a million will get hit by this change at the Edinburgh-based investment giant. Many obtained their shares after Standard Life demutualised 16 years ago. Five years ago, Standard Life and funds group Aberdeen merged before being renamed Abrdn.

Derek French, a former executive of bank NatWest and founder of the Campaign for Community Banking Services, is among those to have received the letter from Abrdn explaining the move.

The future: Abrdn will pay dividends directly into shareholders' bank accounts

He says: 'This is just another blow for those who want to use cash and bank cheques in a high street branch.

'Banks and other financial institutions, such as Abrdn, tell us we all want to bank online  but this is patently untrue. It is vital that people are given choice.'

The MoS has long fought for the right of customers to have choice over how they receive and make payments. Five million people in Britain currently rely on cash for their budgeting.

Lord Lee of Trafford, the country's first Isa millionaire and patron of retail investor campaign group ShareSoc, says: 'It is not just older people, but also youngsters who need to appreciate the value of money and might like to have a cheque arriving in the post when a dividend payment is due.

'There is no doubt dividends paid by bank transfer are more convenient for many people, but it should not be mandatory. Investors must be given the choice.' Dropping the option of dividends payment by cheque will save Abrdn money when the change is implemented next May, reducing administrative costs.

Abrdn says: 'More shareholders prefer the convenience of payments direct to their bank account and it takes away the worry of misplacing  or forgetting to bank  cheques.'

It adds: 'There is also the cost and environmental impact of posting thousands of dividend cheques that we have to consider.'

Most investment trusts and UK companies already automatically pay dividends via electronic transfer to those shareholders who hold their stakes on an investment platform such as Hargreaves Lansdown.

But Annabel Brodie-Smith, communications director at trade organisation the Association of Investment Companies says a minority of investment trusts still pay dividends to shareholders by cheque if requested  but only if the shares are held with them directly (not through a platform). They include (surprisingly) trusts managed by Abrdn such as North American Income, Murray International and Shires Income.

Brodie-Smith says: 'Choice is good and it is commendable that some trusts still allow investors to receive dividends by cheque if this is what they want.'

It is not just dividend cheques that are being phased out, but also physical share certificates.

There was a time when if you purchased shares in a company, you would automatically be issued with paper proof of the investment. These are now increasingly rare.

Hargreaves Lansdown has blamed the coronavirus for ditching the option for investors to trade paper shares through its platform from next month. It states: 'Certificated share dealing was suspended in March 2020 in response to the pandemic due to the administration required to operate the service.

'We have reviewed the situation and found that certificated share ownership is becoming less common. We now want to focus more on providing our clients with a better electronic share dealing platform.'
The AVO to protect Radovanovic's estranged wife was granted in his absence

Radovanovic was due in court over an AVO on May 24 but again failed to appear

A warrant was issued for his arrest in December but he has still not been arrested

The businessman, 52, claimed he had been inspecting a property in July last year

The Sydney millionaire who forced a lockdown of Byron Bay at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic is still avoiding punishment 10 months after brazenly breaching public health orders.

Zoran Radovanovic flew to Serbia before he could be sentenced for driving from Sydney to northern New South Wales with his two teenage children, supposedly to inspect real estate, in July last year.

His lawyer has now told Daily Mail Australia that Radovanovic is still in Serbia caring for his elderly mother and will deal with the arrest warrant awaiting him when he returns to Sydney.

The businessman left the country amid a dispute with his estranged wife Tania MacDowell which included an application for an apprehended violence order and a police allegation he broke her umbrella.

The Sydney millionaire who forced a lockdown of Byron Bay at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic is still avoiding punishment 10 months after brazenly breaching public health orders. Zoran Radovanovic is pictured with his son Kristian eight years ago

Radovanovic, a Rose Bay businessman, left the country amid a dispute with his wife Tania MacDowell which included an application for an apprehended violence order and a police allegation he broke her umbrella. Ms MacDowell is pictured at the couple's former home

By ignoring lockdown rules and sneaking into Byron Bay while carrying the coronavirus Radovanovic forced 300,000 residents of the Northern Rivers into isolation for a week.

Health officials said he stopped at several venues in the tourist town during his illegal visit. The lockdown included the Byron, Ballina, Lismore and Richmond Valley local government areas.

Radovanovic, from Rose Bay in Sydney's eastern suburbs, spent two weeks in Lismore Base Hospital suffering Covid after leaving a trail of potential contagion across the popular holiday region.

His 19-year-old son Kristian, who joined Radovanovic on the eight-hour 750km journey north, also contracted Covid as did his teenage daughter.

All three were treated in Lismore Base Hospital, while their mother, who did not go on the trip, spent time in hospital in Sydney.

Radovanovic's 19-year-old son Kristian (above) joined his father on the eight-hour 750km journey north. He also contracted Covid as did his teenage sister. Both were treated in Lismore Base Hospital, while their mother, who did not go on the trip, spent time in hospital in Sydney

NSW public health orders had technically allowed locked-down Sydney residents an exemption to travel if they were 'inspecting a potential new place of residence'.

Radovanovic claimed he had been in Byron Bay to legally inspect a property but police found he did not have a reasonable excuse to leave Sydney.

He said in late August he had not violated stay-at-home orders and would not have left home if he knew he was Covid-positive.

'You think I knew I had corona in my pocket and took it and then went up there?' he told the Daily Telegraph. 'No, it's ridiculous, what kind of imbecile would do that?'

'I've done nothing wrong, I want to tell my story.' He never did.

It had been unclear how Radovanovic managed to leave Australia during border closures which prevented citizens from flying internationally without an exemption.

A court heard in October last year that Radovanovic had flown to Serbia. Neighbours said at the time removalists had filled a shipping container outside his Rose Bay house (above) the previous week

Radovanovic's lawyer David Newham told Daily Mail Australia his client had flown to Serbia in September to care for his 82-year-old mother in Belgrade after she underwent surgery for which there was a two-year waiting list.

'He and his immediate family are her only surviving relatives and he travelled there with his son Kristian for her round-the-clock care,' Mr Newham said.

'He understands the warrant situation awaiting him in Sydney as a result of his Public Health Act matters and upon his return, will co-operate with the process to be undertaken.'

Daily Mail Australia revealed Radovanovic had left the country when he was supposed to front Downing Centre Local Court on October 28 over the domestic violence allegations involving his wife.

'The client is overseas and has a new address in Serbia,' magistrate Michael Barko said.

Radovanovic and his family had been living at Rose Bay since they sold a home in his wife's name at Forestville in 2020 for $2.25million

Radovanovic's neighbours said at the time he had split from his wife and that removalists had filled a shipping container outside their rented house the previous week.

Ms MacDowell remained on the property with the family's two dog and a black Mercedes SUV.

Zoran Radovanovic: From Sydney to Serbia July 31: Zoran Radovanovic and his son Kristian drive from Sydney to Byron Bay to look at real estate August 5: Radovanovic experiences breathing difficulties after inspecting a property August 8: Radovanovic is admitted to Lismore Base Hospital. He and Kristian are diagnosed with Covid-19 August 9: Residents of Byron, Ballina, Lismore and Richmond Valley local government areas put in lockdown August 11: Radovanovic is charged with breaching public health orders August 12: Kristian is charged with breaching public health orders October 28: Downing Centre Local Court hears Radovanovic has flown to Serbia November 15: Waverley Local Court hears Kristian is also in Serbia December 20: Kristian is fined $35,000 for public health order breaches at Waverley Local Court. His father does not appear at Lismore Local Court. Arrest warrant issued May 24: Police are granted an AVO to protect Radovanovic's wife Tiana MacDowell from her husband at Downing Centre Local Court. Radovanovic does not appear Advertisement

Radovanovic and his family had been living at Rose Bay since they sold a home in his wife's name at Forestville in 2020 for $2.25million.

Radovanovic pleaded guilty through Mr Newham in Lismore Local Court on October 11 to four counts of failing to use QR codes but did not appear in person or by audio-visual link.

He was not in the same court on November 15 when pleas were entered on his behalf to three counts of not complying with a Covid direction but magistrate Jeff Linden said being in Serbia did not breach Radovanovic's bail conditions.

Waverley Local Court heard on December 20 that Kristian was also in Serbia with his father helping look after his grandmother.

Mr Newham suggested Kristian had been led by his father when they headed off on their Northern Rivers escapade.

Kristian did not appear that day when he was sentenced to fines totalling $35,000 after pleading guilty to various public health breaches.

For not using a QR code and failing to wear a mask in a general store he was fined $5,000 and $7,500 respectively, and for not wearing a mask nor using a QR code in a taxi he was fined $12,500 and $10,000.

Kristian's father was also not in Lismore Local Court on December 20 when magistrate Michael Dakin issued a warrant for his arrest. He recently skipped another court date in Sydney.

Radovanovic was due to face Downing Centre Local Court on May 24 when police sought the apprehended violence order to protect Ms MacDowell from him.

This time the 52-year-old was not represented by a lawyer and again failed to appear.

Magistrate Miranda Moody imposed a two-year restraining order to stop Radovanovic from assaulting, threatening, stalking, harassing or intimidating the mother of his children.

Radovanovic had also been charged with destroying or damaging property - a black umbrella belonging to Ms MacDowell - but that matter was withdrawn and dismissed.

When Radovanovic, who first came to Australia from what was then Yugoslavia on a visitor's visa in April 1991, returns to face justice remains to be seen.
A former bank robber and career criminal has revealed how he turned his life around after being sexually abused at a juvenile home and again in prison and going into a destructive downward spiral of crime and violence.

Russell Manser, then 17, remembers a prison guard saying 'have fun, boys' as his mattress was thrown to the floor of a cell he shared with two men in a protection wing of Long Bay jail used to house convicted paedophiles.

Manser's history of incarceration began at 15 when he was out with friends on an ordinary Saturday night and made the drug-fuelled decision to steal a ute in Parramatta, in Sydney's west.

What ensued was a dramatic police chase in which the teenager could barely even reach the pedals, ultimately crashing the stolen car.

'It was often you'd be driving cars on phone books. I've seen some kids, one doing the pedals and one doing the driving,' he told Daily Mail Australia.

Manser was sent to Daruk Boys Home at Windsor, a town northwest of Sydney, for six months and within days had been sexually abused by wardens.

Russell Manser (pictured right) was sexually abused at the notorious juvenile school Daruk Boys Home at Windsor, in Sydney's far northwest and later at Long Bay Correctional Centre while still a teenager

Manser robbed five banks in the early 1990s, on one occasion stealing $90,000 from the Commonwealth Bank in Lane Cove (pictured, CCTV footage from inside one of the banks)

'The first night I seen staff grabbing kids out of beds and taking them to the ablutions block,' he told the ABC's Australian Story.

'The second or third night I could smell one of the staff members breathing on me, and he had breath like a sewer.

'He marched me into the ablutions block and sexually abused me.'

Authorities have since urged any male who attended the school between 1965 and 1985 to come forward. In 2018, it was reported at least 80 alleged victims had opened up about instances of sexual and physical abuse at the home.

Manser, the youngest of six children, grew up in Mount Druitt in Sydney's west.

His parents were 'ten pound poms' who emigrated from Liverpool and supported their large family with factory work, his mother working in a plastics factory.

'There was no dysfunction, there was no domestic violence or alcoholism in my family growing up in Mount Druitt,' Manser said.

However Manser couldn't help but notice the special treatment dished out to returning inmates who were lauded like 'servicemen' in his suburb.

These men had new cars, nice clothes and pretty girlfriends, which appealed to a teenager desperately seeking a distraction from what he saw as a life of misery.

'I would always see people really busting their a*ses. The only people who showed any sort of opulence were the criminals,' he said.

'Waking up at five o'clock in the morning in the middle of winter to walk to the bus stop to go and work in a factory for 10 hours.

'They looked miserable and it really didn't appeal to me.'

Manser, the youngest of six children, grew up in Mount Druitt in Sydney's west (Manser is pictured, left, with former bank robber and author John Killick, who wrote a book about Manser)

Manser had just turned 17 when when he stole a Porsche from the wealthy suburb of Whale Beach on Sydney's northern beaches.

He was given an adult sentence of 12 months in Long Bay Correctional Centre to send a stern warning to other aspiring criminals in Mount Druitt.

Manser admits he feels resentful of the sentence and said in comparison to some of the other kids in jail his criminal history was minimal.

'It was illegal for any of us to be there, the way they did it was illegal because they had to go through the Attorney-General,' he said.

'The courts had no power or jurisdiction to be able to do that directly. The lawyers should have said "this kid has been illegally placed in prison".

'That failure to contact family services, child safety and say these kids are in serious danger. There's a duty of care there and they failed to do it.'

Manser was sexually abused by two men within hours of arriving at One Wing, a notorious protection unit used to house convicted pedophiles.

He remembers the prison guard saying 'have, fun boys' as his mattress was thrown to the floor of their cramped cell.

The teenager was abused a few nights later by a third inmate, who offered him his first shot of heroin in return for his silence.

Manser (pictured) had just turned 17 when when he stole a Porsche from the ritzy suburb of Whale Beach on Sydney's northern beaches

In an assessment done four weeks after he arrived, a psychologist stated there was a high probability he was being sexually abused at Long Bay.

Manser left prison a shell of his former self and nursing an addiction to heroin.

He went on to rob five banks in the early 1990s, on one occasion stealing $90,000 from the Commonwealth Bank in Lane Cove in Sydney's north.

Manser committed five robberies within a few months, never stopping to consider the impact he was having on the terrified clerks and witnesses.

By the age of 23, the career criminal had been sentenced to 15 years behind bars, with a non-parole period of seven-and-a-half years.

On his release, Manser started his own business as a fitness instructor, got married and welcomed two boys into the world.

However the short-lived period of peace was disrupted by memories of his abuse, which were becoming harder to ignore.

His marriage broke down and Manser numbed the pain with drugs and alcohol, returning to his hallmark of robbing banks - this time leaving fingerprints.

Back behind bars, he realised 'a lot' needed to change.

Former bank robber and biographer John Killick wrote the book The Voice of a Survivor detailing how Manser (pictured with his partner) turned his life around

After seeing the announcement of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, Manser got the boost he needed.

He wrote to the commission and was visited by a representative, before finally receiving an apology from the NSW government and compensation, three decades after he was abused at Daruk Boys Home.

When asked about the possibility of confronting his abusers at Long Bay, who he says are dead, Manser asks what purpose it would serve.

'It doesn't give me any closure, I've done a lot of work on that stuff in regards to holding on to resentments and what that's achieving and you know, really worked hard to sort of let that stuff go. It's hard some days,' he said.

Manser said he received closure when he accepted that what had happened to him in Daruk and Long Bay hadn't been his fault.

'It takes a lot of practice, it takes a long time. I want a sense of peace,' he said.

Manser now runs an advocacy group that helps connect survivors of abuse, prisoners, and former prisoners with legal advice, treatment and rehabilitation.

It began when other inmates started suspecting he was ratting to police when in reality he was on the phone with the Royal Commission.

Manser (pictured with his partner) now runs a support and advocacy group that helps connect survivors of abuse, prisoners, and former prisoners with legal advice and rehabilitation

After he announced this to the prison yard, several inmates asked how they could share their own stories of abuse.

'That's basically where the Voice of the Survivor was formed. I just had this way of people telling me their stories and feeling at ease,' he said.

Manser now boasts 12 employees who work connecting their 13,500 clients with 36 law firms after starting the business on a laptop he didn't know how to use.

'It's a real privilege to be in this position. It's a real privilege when people trust me with their deepest, darkest secrets. It's so rewarding,' he said.

When asked what advice he would give his teenage self before he lost control of his life, his response was simple: 'Believe in yourself'.

'Now I sit in boardrooms with these barrister types and my young bloke asked me how I can even talk to these people,' he said.

'I told him I just believe in myself, and it was one of the first times I said it openly.'
A Vietnamese mother has been reunited in a tear-jerking scenes with the Australian son she left at an orphanage at four years of age in 1975.

Jamie Fry, who was raised in Adelaide after being adopted by an Australian family, finally got to hug his birth mother 47 years later at her home in Georgia, in the United States.

The tender mother-and-son moment showed her breaking into tears as she hugged Mr Fry, who was told she was dead when he started looking for her in his early 20s.

The remarkable emotion-charged scene was 'closure' for Mr Fry, now 51, who spent 30 years looking for her.

In the chaotic final weeks of the Vietnam War more than 3,000 children were airlifted out of the country and 'into the arms of waiting couples in the US, Canada, Britain, Europe and Australia'.

The displacement of Vietnamese children was later dubbed 'Operation Babylift'.

Jamie Fry, who was raised in Adelaide after being adopted by an Australian family, finally got to hug his Vietnamese birth mother 47 years later at her home in Georgia, in the United States.

After 47 years apart Mr Fry gets to embrace his birth mother, who is overjoyed. Her happiness quickly turns to grief and overwhelm as the moment sinks in.

Mr Fry eventually tracked his mother down using DNA tests from other adopted children who were at the same Vietnamese orphanage he was.

Do you remember this face? he asked his birth mother when he showed his childhood photos

He comforted his emotional long-lost mum in the most Aussie way imaginable in the segment, which was part on a powerful SBS special on adopted children reconnecting with birth family.

Mr Fry mum grabbed onto her son, saying, 'Jamie. I'm very happy.'

Then visibly overwhelmed, she broke down.

'You right?' her son replied.

When they went inside her house for drinks and a meal, he asked his still-dazed mum, 'How are you feeling?'

'I feel good but I guess I don't know,' she said. 'I see you and I cry.'

'We're here now,' he told his emotional mum.

Jamie Fry (back left) with his American siblings. They reunited recently in Georgia

'I want to say I miss him, I love him,' Mr Fry told viewers.

Mr Fry also finally got to meet his brother and sister for the first time and shared a meal and drinks with them.

He took Carlton footy club memorabilia as gifts for his family.

Adopting children from overseas Inter-country adoption has waned in popularity since the 1970s as concerns surfaced about corruption and the ethics of adoption processes in some cases. Just 37 children were adopted in this way by Australian parents in 2020. Australia has active inter-country adoption programs with 13 countriesBulgaria, Chile, China, Colombia, Hong Kong, India, Latvia, Poland, South Africa, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan and Thailand. There is currently no agreement in place with nations Australians have adopted from including Vietnam and the Philippines. Advertisement

He then sat with his mum showing her photos of his upbringing in far-off Australia.

'Do you remember this face?' he asked, pointing to his earliest photo.

Mr Fry was the son of an African-American soldier who served in Vietnam.

When the US army left Vietnam, Mr Fry's mum was left unemployed with three children to raise. She made the heartbreaking decision to leave him at an orphanage.

He grew up in a middle-class family and went to a private school in Adelaide.

Growing up, he had identity issues and found it hard to get traction in his life.

'I'm happy that he has married. He has a family and a job in Australia,' his mum said.

'It's better than if he stayed in Vietnam, he'd have suffered.'

Mr Fry admitted he sensed a lot of guilt in his mother.

'The first time I hugged mum I could feel a lot of mixed emotions in her,' he said.'

'I think there is still a sense of guilt with mum, she hopes that I don't hold anything against her, which of course I don't.

'Being a single female with a mixed race child back during the war things would have been tough.'

His mum explained. 'It was hard, I was working for the Americans, but now they were leaving I had two children to take care of and no job.'

Mr Fry was told about his roots in his early 20s and given adoption papers that led him back to the orphanage.

He travelled there looking for answers soon after but admitted he felt he wasn't accepted as part-Vietnamese.

He was also told his mother has died, but didn't believe it.

Mr Fry eventually tracked his mother down using DNA tests from other adopted children who were at the same Vietnamese orphanage he was

Mr Fry (centre) having drinks in the United States with his two of his American siblings

'They had told me that my birth mother had passed away which didn't feel quite right.

The breakthrough came when he got a DNA match to a half-brother in the United States just before Covid locked down the border.

Finally meeting his siblings was 'brilliant' he said.

'[It was] something I've dreamt of all my life. I've got to know them over the years but the actual face to face and to be able to give them a hug and all of those things were absolutely brilliant.'

Adoption expert Jane Adams, from the Benevolent Society said the reality of being adopted could become an issue for that person at any point in their life.

'Often at those big moments of identity, so firstly in adolescence, meeting their life partner, when their parent dies  so when big things happen it comes up for them again,' she said.

'It's never really life threatening but it's always there  it sits with them through every event, it's part of who they are.'
A senior police officer says it is not ideal taxi drivers are using police scanners to avoid stolen cars in the state's north, more than a year into a crackdown on youth crime.

Evening taxi drivers in Townsville, North Queensland, use police scanners to monitor where stolen vehicles are across the city, then inform fellow drivers via social media or text.

One cabbie said he avoided an accident over the weekend by moving away from an intersection after hearing the route of a stolen car over the scanner.

'Had I not done that I could've been t-boned there and then,' he said. 'Its not for fun, it's about our safety, mate.'

Queensland taxi drivers have been using police scanners to pinpoint where stolen cars are and avoid the area

Assistant Police Commissioner Mark Wheeler said he wasn't aware of taxi drivers using police scanners in the city, but he encouraged people to report stolen vehicles.

'A taxi driver having to do that is not ideal,' Mr Wheeler said on Thursday.

'But what I'd say is that when we get that information we act on it very quickly. We respond as quickly as we can.'

In March, youth-dominated crimes surged to their highest levels since the government's crackdown began in April 2021.

In the same month, Townsville experienced an average of 10 homes and businesses broken into every day, and two cars stolen.

The Youth Justice Act amendment, introduced in April 2021, included a presumption against bail for youths for certain offences.

Queensland magistrates were also granted rights to issue electronic monitoring devices to repeat offenders aged 16 and 17 as a condition of bail across the LGAs of Townsville, North Brisbane, Moreton, Logan and the Gold Coast.

To be fitted, teens must be charged with a serious offence and have previously been convicted of a serious offence.

Speaking anonymously to AAP, one cabbie said he avoided an accident over the weekend by moving away from an intersection

Police Minister Mark Ryan said on Thursday the government continues to engage with key stakeholders since the laws were passed, and the government regularly monitors the reforms.

On GPS tracking devices, Mr Ryan said the courts have preferred to hold recidivist offenders in custody, which has led to disruptions to their offending.

In instances where the electronic devices have been issued, he said there were 'about half a dozen' in use, which has seen some success around bail compliance.

But Member for Traeger Rob Katter said taxi drivers using police scanners for safety spoke volumes of the state's youth crime issue.

'It's not even about the frequency. It's about the intensity - people are scared,' he said.

'People in the normal course of business are taking extraordinary action to try to mitigate the threat of violence and crime.'
Many people went to social media to express their outrage calling the museum 'racially insensitive'

It contains fresh lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, feta cheese, a container of dressing, and chunks of watermelon

food service partners 'planned a Juneteenth menu as a way for us to raise awareness of the holiday's meaning'

The Indianapolis Children's Museum, aka the 'world's largest children's museum' is being called out for being racially insensitive for serving 'Juneteenth Watermelon Salad' on their menu ahead of the national holiday.

Visitors were outraged when they noticed the $10 watermelon salad for Juneteenth - which many slammed as 'racially insensitive.'

Jackson Moon, aka Jackson Adams, shared a picture of the salad on Twitter with the caption: 'Racially insensitive salads. NOBODY BLACK ASKED FOR THIS!'

'This is horrible and racist,' another person tweeted.

Another said: 'This is what happens when a holiday is made federal.'

The Indianapolis Children's Museum, aka the 'world's largest children's museum' is being called out for being racially insensitive for serving 'Juneteenth Watermelon Salad'

Jackson Moon didn't hold back when she wrote on her social media on Friday exactly how she felt when she saw the museum cafeteria offering 'Juneteenth Watermelon Salad' on their menu

The racist trope of black people liking watermelons dates back to the emancipation period after the Civil War when Southern whites attempted to give the popular fruit negatives connotations because it was grown and sold by free black people.

The trope exploded in American culture and sadly pervades to this day.

Indianapolis Children's Museum has since apologized and said it is pulling the product.

'As a museum, we apologize and acknowledge the negative impact that stereotypes have on communities of color. The salad has been removed from the menu,' a spokesman said.

They explained they had planned a Juneteenth menu 'as a way for us to raise awareness of the holiday's meaning, and commemorate their own family traditions'.

On Friday, the children's museum responded to Jonelle Slaughter giving an explanation of the process that goes into menu selection and the research behind it. They also gave her an apology but did mention that the salad will be put back on the shelves at the food court once it is properly label with detailing the significance of the day

The massive museum, located in Northwest Indianapolis and encompasses 500,000 square-feet, and major tourist attraction with more than 1.3 million visitors annually, defended their decision for the menu offering and later apologized

'Red foods have historically been served by some to remember the blood that was shed along the way to freedom,' the spokesperson said.

The $10 salad listed in the museum's cafeteria contains a medley of fresh lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, sprinkled feta cheese, and chunks of watermelon.

It is unclear whether the food service partner is a black-owned business.

'Juneteenth' on June 19, also called Emancipation day, commemorates the end of slavery for all Americans. It originated in 1865, when the last enslaved people in the US, in the rebel state of Texas, were informed about the Emancipation Proclamation.

Moon wrote on her social media posting: 'It doesn't have to be watermelon or kool aid. Our food history is radical. Our food history is rich. Our food history connects us to Africa.'

She continued: 'As the holiday is now recognized and companies are quick to jump on the bandwagon with offensive ice creams and decorations we must learn to safeguard our history and culture before it becomes twisted and unrecognizable.'

On Friday, Moon posted that 'the museum deleted my comment suggesting they remove the salad but our people wouldn't relent and eventually this was their response.'

Moon referred to the response that was given to Jonelle Slaughter, another visitor to the museum who also posted a photo of the salad in a Facebook comment under a post from the museum advertising its Juneteenth Jamboree, FOX59 News reporte.d

'So y'all decided 'hey let's celebrate by perpetuating offensive stereotypes',' Slaughter wrote. 'Y'all really thought this was a good idea?'

On Friday, the museum gave an explanation to Jonelle Slaughter's response.

'Jonelle Slaughter Thank you for bringing this to our attention. There should have been a label explaining the history and meaning behind this menu item and it should have not have been on the shelf before that label was ready. We understand how this appears with no context and we apologize. We are pulling it from our food court immediately until the sign is ready to accompany it.'

'There's a lot of research that goes into the food choices we make for special events. Watermelon, along with other red foods, are a staple of Juneteenth Celebrations, including our food court manager's family Juneteenth celebrations.'

The massive museum, located in Northwest Indianapolis and encompasses 500,000 square-feet, and major tourist attraction with more than 1.3 million visitors annually.
A notorious vegan activist stormed into a restaurant and demanded diners stop eating meat while she played sounds of animals being slaughtered.

Tash Peterson, 28, shouted 'their blood is on your hands' at the patrons eating out at Outback Jacks Bar and Grill on James Street, in Perth, on Saturday.

She wore a white outfit stained in red paint, to symbolise blood, as she walked up and down the restaurant while holding a speaker above her head.

'The sounds you hear now, are the sounds of animals screaming for their lives inside Australian slaughterhouses,' she bellowed.

A notorious vegan activist stormed into a restaurant and demanded diners stop eating meat while she played sounds of animals being slaughtered

The vegan activist refused their requests prompting several fed-up customer to jump in and try to help the frustrated waiters

'They fought until their very last breath. They want to live just like us. Watch Dominion on YouTube to see the truth... listen to their screams!'

Ms Peterson paced up and down the restaurant continuing her tirade and stunning customers sitting at their tables.

'Animals want to live just like us,' she said. 'Could you slit their throat yourself? Then why are you paying someone else to do it?'

Ms Peterson then labelled the slaughterhouses 'carbon dioxide gas chambers' in a comparison to the Holocaust that killed six million Jews.

Restaurant staff patiently followed Ms Peterson around the premises and kindly asked her to leave the venue.

The vegan activist refused their requests prompting several fed-up customer to jump in and try to help the frustrated waiters.

'Out!' one patron yelled. 'Out! Out! F**k off!'

One man grabbed her by her wrist before wrapping his arm around her neck and trying to pull her out of the venue.

'Leave me alone,' Ms Peterson said. 'Do not touch me, you are assaulting me.'

Another diner tried to calmly speak to the vegan activist urging her to leave.

'We have got a right to eat in peace,' he said.

Ms Peterson stood her ground and continued to shout at the diners eating their meals.

Ms Peterson then labelled the slaughterhouses 'carbon dioxide gas chambers' in a tasteless comparison to the Holocaust that killed six million Jews

Ms Peterson has copped several fines for her semi-nude demonstrations which she has executed in designer stores, restaurants and supermarkets

'If you're not vegan you pay for their rape, torture enslavement and murder,' she said.

Ms Peterson is no stranger to controversy.

Her antics have led police and policymakers in WA to describe her as 'Australia's biggest pest'.

Ms Peterson has copped several fines for her semi-nude demonstrations in designer stores, restaurants and supermarkets.

In May, she accused a police officer of sexism after he asked her to cover her bare chest during one of her public protests.

Ms Peterson had staged the topless demonstration at Hay Street Mall before uploading footage of it to her social media account.

In the video, the plant-based protester holds a sign that reads: 'Kangaroos shot and joeys beaten to death for Nike shoes,' while wearing a kangaroo onesie.

In May, Ms Peterson accused a police officer of sexism after he asked her to cover her bare chest during one of her public protests

Ms Peterson was approached by three police officers who ask her to cover up her chest - which is covered with only pink body paint - and go home

Ms Peterson is approached by three police officers who ask her to cover up her chest - which is covered with only pink body paint - and go home.

'We're just asking you politely to put a top on,' one of the officers says to which the activist replies: 'I was just standing there speaking out.'

'No I'm not putting a top on,' she continues. 'I don't abide to sexist requests.'

The officer says he doesn't think what he's asking is a sexist request.

'Well, there's topless men walking around all the time and I don't think he'd have three male police officers behind him, telling him to put a top on,' she retorts.

Last August, Ms Peterson marched topless through a Louis Vuitton store in Perth while smeared with her own menstrual blood. which later saw her fined $3,500 by a Perth magistrate.

The activist has also dressed up as a cow and demonstrated in the meat section of supermarkets, invaded the pitch at an AFLW match, and wore a blood-soaked apron while screaming at patrons in a KFC and Coles.

Last August, Ms Peterson marched topless through a Louis Vuitton store in Perth while smeared with her own menstrual blood. which later saw her fined $3,500 by a Perth magistrate

The social media influencer marched into the Louis Vuitton designer store in Perth wearing only a nude G-string, with red paint daubed from her chest down to her crotch

She also faced trial for a December 2020 protest at the Boatshed Markets in Cottesloe where she also appeared shirtless, with her chest painted in a cow pattern, and yelled at shoppers that cows were being raped for meat and dairy.

Ms Peterson sparked more controversy after uploading a video begging Australians to stop referring to animals as 'it'.

'There's a huge difference of how we address human animals and non human animals and at the end of the day, we're forgetting we're all animals and sentient beings,' she explained in the ten-minute video.

Ms Peterson described the use of degrading language and euphemisms to describe animals as anthropocentric.

'I've even heard it with people and their dogs and they know their dog's gender but they're still saying it,' she said.

'It's just not a word to be using for an individual, it's objectifying them and it's devaluing them. They're no different to us morally.'

'You can say he/she, they/them, or just even saying the dog or the bird, at least appreciate they're a living being.'
Grace Tame has cheekily tweeted that she might be a beneficiary of Anthony Albanese's decision to live in Canberra, rather than Sydney.

The prime minister has two official houses, Kirribilli House in Sydney and The Lodge in Canberra and, unlike Scott Morrison, Mr Albanese has chosen the latter as home.

Ms Tame responded to the news with a tweet to her boyfriend Max Heerey, saying 'we might be allowed back after all lol'.

She was referring to her infamous appearance at The Lodge on January 25, when she could barely bring herself to even look at then-PM Mr Morrison.

The 2021 Australian of the Year Grace Tame (right) gives then Prime Minister Scott Morrison a disdainful look at The Lodge in Canberra on Tuesday, January 25, 2022

Pictures of the frosty encounter at the morning tea for Australian of the Year nominees went viral over Ms Tame's brutal reaction.

The 27-year-old Tasmanian couldn't bear to look the PM in the eye as they shook hands and made her contempt clear as she stood alongside him for a group photo.

Mr Morrison's wife, Jenny, later said she wished Ms Tame had shown more 'manners and respect' after being invited into The Lodge.

'I just found a little bit disappointing, because we were welcoming her in our home,' she said.

'I just wish the focus had been on all the incredible people coming in.

'I respect people that want to change things, stand up for their beliefs, and are strong, but I still think there are manners and respect.'

If the Coalition won last month's election that the chances of Ms Tame, 27, ever being invited back to The Lodge for any reason were slim.

But there's a new boss in town and he seems to get along well with the sexual assault survivors' advocate - at the very least they smile at each other in photographs.

Grace Tame's tweet (pictured) to her partner Max Heerey, saying they 'might be allowed back (to The Lodge) after all'

Former Australian of the Year Grace Tame (left) is pictured with Anthony Albanese and looking much happier than she did with Scott Morrison

Ms Tame said she doesn't have a 'friendship' with Mr Albanese, but does have hopes for what he will do as PM.

On election night on May 21, Ms Tame posted a picture of the pair to social media adding: 'A grateful nation is crying with you. And who said I didn't smile at the prime minister?

'Here's to inclusion, integrity, diversity, truth, equity, respect, safety and change. A better future. For all of us. For the planet.

'Congratulations to @albomp, and to the people of Australia  for a triumph over corruption and abuse. A triumph of hope. Today was a victory for us all.'

Former Australian of the Year Grace Tame (left) is pictured with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese

Then Prime Minister Scott Morrison (second left) is pictured with his wife Jenny (left), 2021 Australian of the Year Grace Tame (second right) and partner Max Heerey (right) during a morning tea for state and territory recipients in the 2022 Australian of the Year Awards at The Lodge in Canberra, Tuesday, January 25, 2022

The Morrisons mainly lived in Kirribilli House while Mr Morrison was prime minister, and took almost two weeks to move out after the Coalition lost the election.

This led to him being called 'Squat Morrison', as he overstayed 13 days with Jenny and their daughters Lily and Abbey.

Mr Albanese had to meet government officials at his own home in the Sydney suburb of Marrickville while he waited for the Morrisons to move out.

Mr Morrison finally appeared to be finally leaving the residence when two bright orange Allied removal trucks arrived at the heritage-listed home on Friday.

Two removal trucks arrived at Kirribilli House on Friday to start removing the Morrison family's possessions

Mr Albanese, meanwhile revealed he was abandoning his home city as he believed Canberra had been 'ignored largely by the government'.

'I'm already at The Lodge,' he told the Canberra Times.

'I have moved most of my personal effects from my flat in Canberra there across to The Lodge plus some things down from Sydney.'

Mr Albanese will still make trips to Sydney to visit his 21-year-old son Nathan.

The prime minister also indicated he plans to boost infrastructure spending in the nation's capital and improve the public service.
It was just after midnight on February 21, 1998, and the banks of the frozen Tumen River separating North Korea from China were engulfed in darkness. We would have to cross the icy river on foot. As I walked, I focused on each step so as not to slip. This also helped me forget my fear.

But I couldnt help wondering how many innocent souls had been swallowed up by this river and how many had managed to cross the 20-something yards of frozen water and reach China.

And how many others, like me, had abandoned their father on his deathbed, a bowl of cold rice beside him?

It took us 15 minutes to cross from one world into another. We were already well into Chinese soil when we heard the Korean guards behind us shouting: Fugitives! We also heard gunshots, but it was too late. We were out of range.

We ran towards the first house we saw, knocked on the door and a Chinese woman opened it. Despite our muddy rags, our hair stiff with cold and our wan faces, she invited us in. She served us soup and eggs with white rice on the side.

In Korea, we had lived with death for years, yet just across the border another world existed. A world barely 100 yards away, where you could bask in abundance.

Today, I am a mother-of-three who twice escaped from North Korea and survived forced marriage, acute poverty, famine and illness before I was finally granted asylum in the UK in 2008.

I will never go back to Chongjin on the east coast of North Korea, a city nestling between the base of a mountain range and the sea that separates Korea from Japan. It had once been a small fishing village, but by the 1970s it was the third-largest city in the country. I can still see myself as a little girl of four in a tiny apartment, just 50ft square.

The buildings were named according to where the residents worked. Ours was called Mechanical Department No2 after the factory where my father serviced cars. Everyone worked at the same place, everyone lived in the same lodging, everyone earned the same amount of money. It was the Workers Paradise.

Our family of five, including my younger brother Jeong-ho and my older sister Myeong-sil, slept on the floor and in the evening the room was lit by a single bare bulb hanging from the ceiling.

Light bulbs were rationed, a gift of Kim Il Sung, and not available to everyone. If any lights were left on too late, the authorities would cut the electricity to the building as a collective punishment, and you would be cursed by your neighbours.

So we lived in the dark most of the time and spoke little, since the apartment walls were paper-thin.

Our building manager, Mrs Choi, gathered information on residents and passed it directly to the Department of National Security.

Propaganda painting In North Korea

I was born on July 30, 1968, but in North Korea we dont celebrate childrens birthdays. Only the birthday of our beloved father, founder of the nation Kim Il Sung, on April 15, is celebrated.

Of course he was the most important person in the world. Of course we must love him. His portrait was everywhere  on the red badges on our parents jackets, on the streets, in the trains, in the railway stations, in the newspapers.

There was a giant statue of him in the park, at the foot of which we placed flowers on his birthday, and his portrait in our house, which my mother and father cleaned every day with a special cloth. In spite of our hardships, I was a noble, proud and patriotic child, happy to live under Kim Il Sungs protection. On the way to school, we would sing the words to a hymn called Pi Bada (Sea Of Blood) which talked about fighting the barbaric Japanese imperialist puppets with courage  a procession of small children, screaming until blue in the face.

Our teachers told us that Our Leader worked his entire life to bring happiness to the people of North Korea. It was thanks to him that we were alive, that we had food to eat and a roof over our heads.

We owed him everything.

Nonetheless, we were always hungry. Most of the meagre rations we received consisted of food made from maize. Mum displayed feats of imagination in order to put food in our bowls every day, but it wasnt enough, and hunger often kept me from sleeping. The next day, it was the same thing all over again.

That feeling of eating my fill I think that in the 30 years I lived in North Korea, I only experienced it twice. Once, when I was eight years old and my father brought bread home. The second time was the day I ate ten eggs in a row.

My father had come back that day cradling a backpack made of black cloth and motioned to us to remain silent. Placing the backpack on the table, he withdrew 50 white eggs one by one and placed them carefully beside the backpack. He had got them in return for some work he had done for a farm, but in a country where all food belonged to the state, he was breaking the law by accepting them.

If any of our neighbours see or hear about this, theyll denounce us to the police and well be arrested immediately, he said.

Boil them, all of them. Now! Were going to eat them all at once. Do not speak of this beyond these walls. Tell no one that youve been eating eggs.

And so my mother boiled them and we ate them, ten each.

More than once, my father placed a finger over his lips to remind us not to make a sound. Then my mother ground up the shells to a fine powder and threw them in the fire. No one would ever know.

Jihyun Park, a North Korean defector, who escaped fleeing first to China and then settling in the UK

At school, all students were required to submit to self-criticism every week. We had to say who had got a bad grade and denounce those who had behaved badly.

She scribbled in her workbook during the history lesson on Kim Il Sung! one pupil would declare. The accused pupil would confess their crime and promise never to do it again, and then might be sentenced to write out their self-criticism ten times by the following day.

Some children cried when they were criticised. My friends and I made deals, agreeing on what each of us would critique in the other.

But every childs true fate in life ultimately depended on their songbun, a classification system that divides Korean citizens into political, social and economic groups, reflecting what their family was doing on September 9, 1948, the day the state had been created.

I knew we belonged to the superior class, the loyal class made up of descendants of those who fought the Japanese during the occupation, thanks to our paternal grandfather who had fought in the 1930s.

We did know, however, that your songbun can change over the course of your lifetime. You can attain a higher class by serving your country with a heroic act  but you might also drop into a lower category if you commit an undesirable act, and your family will be affected for three generations.

In the Corps of Young Pioneers, the training organisation for future revolutionary fighters aged seven to 13, we were taught to hate.

I knew that my mothers songbun was not as good as my fathers, but I didnt know why. Then, when my sister was not awarded the research position in the army shed applied for, despite having won first place in a computer programming contest, I learned the truth.

Her father, she told us, had defected to the South during the Korean War. He, too, had been a landowner and there was no place in the party for a former landowner corrupted by capitalism. Now my sister understood why she hadnt been given the army job: it was because tainted blood of a deserter ran through her veins.

The party was ditching us. We were cursed.

Jihyun Park poses for a photograph after deciding to stand for election as a Conservative party candidate in the upcoming local elections in the Moorside Ward in Bury

One afternoon in 1984, the year I turned 16, my brother, my sister and I had just come home from school when the building manager knocked on our door and told us to head back.

A traitor had just been arrested and was about to be punished.

We hurried back to school, where Teacher lined us up and led us to the Rabook River, where a large crowd had gathered. I could see theyd erected a post on a stretch of sand below the bridge.

Suddenly, an army Jeep drove up, and policemen pulled out a hooded man. Clearly weak, he could barely walk. They tied the man to the post. Three soldiers lined up in front of him, each with a rifle on his shoulder.

What did he do? shouted the people standing around us.

I think he killed a cow!

A cow? Who would dare do such a thing? Let him die!

Shots rang out. Each of the three soldiers shot him in the head, the chest and the knees. With each shot, the man slumped a little more. After untying him from the post, they rolled him up in some sacking, then loaded him into a car.

As we watched them drive away, it occurred to me that anyone could be executed. That it could be me.

My gut seized with fear, but I stood there silent and stoic, just like the 5,000 people around me.

The walk home was hell. It felt like the ground was collapsing under the weight of our guilty consciences.

Back at home, our parents didnt speak, even though they had just returned from the same spectacle.

Nor did we speak when, in a latenight raid a few years later, police handcuffed and led away the Nams, the family in Flat One.

The next morning, I heard Mrs Choi, the building manager, talking in the corridor. I cracked open the door of our flat and listened.

Its about her husband, Mrs Choi was saying to the group of women gathered around her.

A few days ago, he drank too much and criticised the party, blaming it for how poor he is. Criticising the state, thats a serious crime. Thats why they arrested the whole family. Guilty by association.

Hiding under my blankets that night, I cried. Id grown up with the Nams. They were a happy family. One beer, a few misplaced words and five lives were ruined.

North Korean Red Cross workers monitoring the distribution of rice and vegetable oil provided by the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in Unpa County, some 150 km south of Pyongyang

In September 1991, when I was 23, I started teaching maths at a high school. The 1990s would be one of the worst decades North Korea had ever known.

The Soviet Union, on which we were heavily dependent, collapsed. Diesel for cooking stoves ran out. Oil lamps replaced electric light bulbs. We had to count on the black market for food and were forced to draw our water from the river.

This was the beginning of a famine the state dubbed The March of Suffering, and it would last for ten years. My pupils came to school hungry. They no longer smiled. My class numbers fell dramatically. Some of them died.

People were forced to trade their homes for a kilo or two of rice or corn. Entire families found themselves on the street.

The stench of deadbodies, people publicly executed for stealing food  these things became part of our daily life.

My father had a heart attack and was forced to stop working.

My mother ran a stall in the market and would be gone for weeks at a time, trying to buy goods to sell  many of them, like Chinese cigarettes, on the black market.

But we fell deeper and deeper into debt and creditors came to empty our flat of our few remaining possessions.

One day, my mother left, talking about a distant cousin in China who could help. She didnt return. I searched for food on the mountainsides to feed my father, gathering anything  roots, plants, mushrooms, bark  that could be ground up to serve as a base for broth. But by June 1997, even the hills had nothing left to offer: the villagers had stripped them bare.

Yet, no matter how hard Id tried to resist it, Id been brainwashed.

Like a machine thats been programmed at the factory and wont stop, I heard myself say: This is the Wests fault! They are the ones who imposed sanctions on us! We live in a socialist country, where no one should die of hunger!

My father had another heart attack, and the food I managed to scavenge was not enough to restore his strength. When my brother deserted from the army and became a fugitive from the authorities, we knew we too had to go.

I wrote my father a long note, placed a bowl of rice beside him, along with a pair of clean pyjamas, and we paid a people-smuggler to take us  my brother, sister, brother-in-law and niece  across the Tumen River into China.

We located our mother, but our reunion was not exactly what I had prepared myself for: she was living in a small house in the country  with a new husband.

But that wasnt even the worst surprise. I soon discovered that the only reason we could afford our escape was because I was to be sold in marriage to a Chinese man.

My mother and sister had cooked up the plan. The broker to whom they delivered me first raped me, then took me to a market where people bought wives and workers.

I was sold for the modest sum of 5,000 yuan, the equivalent of about 1,000 today  of which, I later discovered, my family only received 1,000 yuan, or 200.

Taken by my husband, Seong-ho, to his familys squalid house in a village at the foot of a mountain range near the Russian border, I was put to work as a farmhand and regularly beaten. Before long, I was pregnant.

I resisted the suggestion of an illegal abortion and, little by little, an idea began to take shape. This child would save me by creating a space for happiness in me, even in the midst of misery. We would go on this journey together. On April 20, 1999, I gave birth to a boy, and I named him Chul. The name means iron: strong as iron to face this pitiless world. Seeing his little face filled me with happiness.

From then on, he was my only reason for living. In the ensuing years I would live in secret, hiding with my child and my drunken husband before, finally, I was arrested as an illegal immigrant  and, to my horror, deported to the city of my birth. I was held in a prison camp for three months, released only when gravely ill and expected to die from sickness and starvation. As for my son, Id been forced to leave him in China with my husbands family. But I didnt die; somehow I recovered.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un delivering a closing address at the Sixth Conference of Cell Secretaries of the Workers' Party of Korea in Pyongyang in 2021

After a year, I once again sold myself to a middleman and took the risk of crossing back into China across the Tumen River.

The plan was to sell me on to a Chinese trafficker and take the commission. But when we got across and I told him about my desire to find Chul, something incredible happened.

'I cant sell you if you have a child, he said calmly, lighting a cigarette. Go and find him yourself.

And so I did. I succeeded in kidnapping Chul on March 18, 2005  and then set out for a third escape, this time from China itself. We headed for Beijing and joined a group of North Koreans who wanted to cross the Gobi Desert to get to Ulan Bator, the Mongolian capital, to seek asylum at the South Korean Embassy

At the Mongolian border with a group of fellow North Korean escapees, five-year-old Chul and I staggered towards a barbed wire fence as a police siren wailed. My mind flashed back to prison camp, to North Korea, to hell. I told myself that it was out of the question that my son should see me in handcuffs a second time.

Suddenly, someone grabbed Chul, threw him over his shoulder and started running for the fence. I ran, too, grabbing this strangers arm.

This man was called Kwang-hyun Joo, and by risking his life, he had saved ours. He could hardly have known that the 200 metres he had just run were not the end but the beginning  and that he would eventually become my husband.

It was another three years of hardship and uncertainty before we landed at Heathrow, now with a second young son. We were granted political refugee status and settled in Bury. We had a third child, a daughter, I took English night classes, and in 2017 became a Conservative Party activist, standing in last years council elections.

I am profoundly grateful for the welcome I have been given. But as I look back now, the distant past is like a murky dream, a lost world collapsing before my eyes, swallowing up the people and places that had been most dear to me. To this day, I have no news of my family.

Jihyun Park and Seh-lynn Chai, 2022

The Hard Road Out, by Jihyun Park and Seh-lynn Chai, is published by HarperNorth at 16.99. To order a copy for 15.29, go to mailshop. co.uk/books or call 020 3176 2937 before June 19. Free UK delivery on orders over 20.
Ukrainian forces were last night poised to retake the key city of Severodonetsk in what would be another blow to Russian president Vladimir Putin.

More than 70 per cent of the city had been seized by Russian troops as the Kremlin sought to control the Donbas industrial heartland in the embattled east of Ukraine.

But in another sign that the war is not going according to Putins plans, a Ukrainian counter-offensive stormed back through Severodonetsk. Heralding the advances, Serhiy Haidai, the governor of the Luhansk region of the Donbas, said: As soon as we have enough Western long-range weapons, we will push their artillery away from our positions. And then, believe me, the Russian infantry, they will just run.

Ukrainian servicemen stand along a road in the town of Severodonetsk in April

CLOSE UP: Destroyed Russian tanks and armoured vehicles on display in Saint Michaels Square, Kyiv, yesterday

But in echoes of the bitter siege of Mariupols Azovstal steelworks, about 800 people  including children  are hiding in Soviet-era bomb shelters beneath the citys Azot chemical factory.

Severodonetsk  a central part of the strategically important Donbas region  has faced bombardment for weeks and the fate of residents who chose to remain is unknown.

The Ukrainian advance came as its foreign minister rebuked Emmanuel Macron for suggesting it was important not to humiliate Moscow. In an interview, the French president had said: We must not humiliate Russia, so that the day when the fighting stops we can build an exit ramp through diplomatic means.

A Ukrainian soldier stands guard in the city of Severodonetsk, six weeks into the Russian invasion

Ukrainian soldiers walk in the city of Severodonetsk carrying weapons back in April as they look poised to take the city back

But Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said: Calls to avoid humiliation of Russia can only humiliate France and every other country that would call for it. Because it is Russia that humiliates itself. We all better focus on how to put Russia in its place. This will bring peace and save lives.

Russian air strikes have increased in the Donbas as the Kremlin seeks to repel Ukrainian advances, Britains Ministry of Defence said last night.

More than 70 per cent of the city had been seized by Russian troops as the Kremlin sought to control the Donbas industrial heartland in the embattled east of Ukraine. Pictured: Solider in April

Residents chat in front of a destroyed building in Borodianka, as Russia's attacks on Ukraine continue

A 500-year-old monastery in the region was engulfed in flames last night after reportedly being struck by Russian artillery. Russia blamed Ukrainian nationalist troops. Pictures show the Sviatohirsk Lavra monastery, made almost entirely of large logs, in flames. Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the shelling and said there had been 300 people, including the elderly, disabled and 60 children, sheltering inside.

A Ukrainian army officer posted a photo on social media with the caption: Another crime of Russian barbarians for whom there is nothing sacred.
A 'perfectly healthy' teenage boy has suffered a seizure from a huge dose of nicotine while vaping in his school's toilets.

The student was rushed to hospital after he was found at Blue Mountains Grammar, west of Sydney, and has recovered, but could have long-lasting brain damage.

Deputy headmaster and head of senior school Owen Laffin told parents about the student's seizure in a letter last week.

A student from Blue Mountains Grammar had a seizure in the school toilets after consuming large amounts of nicotine from vaping

'Last week, an otherwise perfectly healthy senior student collapsed in the toilets, experienced an extended seizure and was taken to hospital by ambulance after using a vape,' he wrote.

'Medical evidence suggests that the seizure was caused by a massive dose of nicotine.

'While I am profoundly grateful to say that the student has now recovered, the risk of head injury or hypoxia-induced brain damage are terrible to contemplate.'

Mr Laffin acknowledged the school had ongoing problems with e-cigarettes, and urged parents to discuss it with their children.

'I write to our whole community today in order to highlight the extraordinary dangers of vaping and to urge parents to discuss them with your children,' he wrote.

Australian National University epidemiologist Emily Banks said some disposable vapes had the nicotine of 10 packs of cigarettes.

'Those disposable devices are very strong and have high doses of nicotine in them,' she told the Sydney Morning Herald.

'People feel sick, they can vomit, lightheaded. The seizures are the thing people are most worried about. There has been the odd case of people having heart rhythm problems  it is one of the documented hazards.'

There have even been cases of vape uses going into cardiac arrest.

The federal government banned the importation of nicotine-based vapes in October last year, but it has done little to curve the products entering Australia

About 11 per cent of Australians aged between 16 and 24 consider themselves regular vape users, double that of 2020.

A black market for vapes and e-cigarettes took off after the federal government in October banned the importation and sale of nicotine-based vapes over concerns about the chemicals used in the products.

Since October 1, a prescription from a GP has been required to legally import and buy e-cigarettes.

The decision was widely scrutinised at the time, with experts suggesting it will do little to stop the extensive use of vapes in Australia.

There are about 700,000 vapers in Australia, making it one of the most lucrative markets for manufacturers and distributors in the world.
Democratic Socialist Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez said she has 'awakened' to her 'indigenous heritage'.

Ocasio-Cortez, who is Puerto Rican, says she is part Taino - the people indigenous to the Caribbean who resided in places like Cuba, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, The Bahamas, and the northern Lesser Antilles.

During an Instagram live Q&A, she said that meeting American indigenous groups while protesting the Standing Rock Pipeline in North Dakota made her want to connect with those roots.

'One of the things that first started awakening and connecting me in a deep to my indigenous heritage was connecting to the Lakota Sioux at Standing Rock,' Ocasio-Cortez said.

Ocasio-Cortez, who is Puerto Rican, says she is part Taino - the people indigenous to the Caribbean who resided in places like Cuba , Jamaica, Puerto Rico, The Bahamas, and the northern Lesser Antilles

Ocasio-Cortez is currently in Puerto Rico attending forums about the potential of the island becoming the 51st state

The second-term representative said that meeting indigenous groups while protesting the Standing Rock Pipeline in North Dakota made her want to connect with those roots

'It really just clicked that this is nuts, like, the grace that they extended to say 'no, you are a relative,' was really formative for me. While we may not be and come from the same exact lineage, there is a commonality to that ancestry,' she added.

'And it's important for us to recognize that we were raised and we were told growing up that we were extinct, that Tainos don't exist, and it's really important for Puerto Ricans to understand that that narrative is being challenged right now.'

Ocasio-Cortez is not the first Democratic member of Congress to claim indigenous heritage, as Senator Liz Warren infamously made headlines by taking a DNA test to try to prove her Native American heritage.

Warren eventually apologized to the Cherokee Nation after releasing the results of a DNA test that showed only a tiny sliver of her ancestry was Native American.

Former President Donald Trump began calling Warren 'Pocahontas' in the spring of 2016 in order to blunt her attacks as she threatened to become a key surrogate for his presidential rival Hillary Clinton.

Ocasio-Cortez is not the first Democratic member of Congress to claim indigenous heritage, as Senator Liz Warren infamously made headlines by taking a DNA test to try to prove her Native American heritage

Former President Donald Trump began calling Warren 'Pocahontas' in the spring of 2016 in order to blunt her attacks as she threatened to become a key surrogate for his presidential rival Hillary Clinton

Ocasio-Cortez has cited several different cultures as part of her heritage, claiming to come from European, Jewish and African ancestry.

She told a Hannukah service in 2018 in Queens that her family came from Sephardic Jews who escaped the Spanish Inquisition.

'As is the story of Puerto Rico, we are a people that are an amalgamation,' she said. 'We are no one thing. We are Black; we are indigenous; we are Spanish; we are European.'

She went on in the Instagram Q&A to say that Taino culture has been appropriated by Americans without accreditation, citing the Taino deity 'Juracan' of chaos and disorder helping form the root of the word hurricane.

The New York City rep is in Puerto Rico this weekend with her fellow members of Congress to sit in on events discussing potential statehood. Ocasio-Cortez supports self-determination for Puerto Ricans regardless of status.
Backlogged courts are dealing with thousands of minor Covid prosecutions while victims of more serious crimes are forced to wait years for justice.

A Mail on Sunday analysis has found almost 4,000 magistrates court listings over the past six months for breaches of coronavirus restrictions, including some for leaving the house.

A 42-year-old from Bradford was last week listed to appear in court for allegedly meeting with more than two people inside a property in February last year.

And a 22-year-old man from Reading is due to appear in court on Tuesday for allegedly failing to self-isolate at home after arriving in the UK from Turkey.

The figures come as some rape victims are waiting up to four years for justice, and burglary cases are taking more than two years to come to court

Meanwhile, a 52-year-old man from Blackpool was last week cleared after police issued him with a fine for failing to ensure that his son remained indoors during lockdown.

Commenting on the backlog of Covid cases, former police officer Harry Miller, of the Fair Cop campaign group, said: Its utterly ridiculous and a total waste of time. The purpose of these fines was a tool for encouraging pointless state obedience, nothing more.

The figures come as some rape victims are waiting up to four years for justice, and burglary cases are taking more than two years to come to court.

In the year before the pandemic, the number of cases waiting to be heard by crown courts rose by 23 per cent to 41,045. After coronavirus it now stands at more than 57,000. For less serious offences due to go before magistrates, the number of outstanding cases now stands at 364,000.

The empty A64 is seen above during the lockdown in March 2020. A Mail on Sunday analysis has found almost 4,000 magistrates court listings over the past six months for breaches of coronavirus restrictions, including some for leaving the house

At least 118,000 fixed-penalty notices were issued under coronavirus legislation by July last year. Some 51,000 are unpaid, making them potentially a matter for the courts.

Campaigners and some lawyers argue that Covid fines should be overturned en masse following Prime Minister Boris Johnsons Partygate fine and his defence that he was unaware he was breaking the rules.

A number of gym owners have already overturned fines after they refused to close during lockdowns.

Police are still taking action against alleged rule-breakers, and last week it emerged that six people are being prosecuted for not paying fines imposed when they attended a vigil for Sarah Everard in March last year. Sarah was raped and murdered by Wayne Couzens, a serving Metropolitan Police officer, who is now serving a life sentence.

The Ministry of Justice said: Magistrates courts handle more than a million cases a year, of which Covid fines account for a tiny fraction. Thanks to our reforms, more cases can be handled by magistrates courts, where the backlog has fallen substantially since last year'.
Advanced breast cancer patients could be given a year or more of extra healthy life by a 'Trojan horse' treatment that destroys tumour cells from the inside out.

The medicine  Trodelvy  has already been hailed a game-changer by doubling survival rates in women with rare and hard-to-treat triple-negative breast cancer.

Now a major new trial has shown it could work just as well in patients with a more common type of breast cancer  HR-positive HER2-negative  which accounts for 70 per cent of cases, meaning thousands more women could benefit.

The women in the study all had advanced disease that had failed to respond to other treatments and had spread to other parts of the body.

The new drug could help those with all types of breast cancer. Most breast tumours are diagnosed by mammogram (pictured)

Women are encouraged to check their breasts regularly for changes and consult a GP if they have any concerns

In many cases, Trodelvy held the cancer at bay for a year.

'There is a serious unmet need for these patients, who have been through chemotherapy already and have no options left,' said American cancer specialist Dr Jane Lowe Meisel yesterday.

Discussing the study's findings at the American Society of Clinical Oncology in Chicago, she added: 'If one of these patients walks into a clinic, with this drug you'll essentially be able to offer them a one-in-five chance of their cancer not progressing in a year. That is huge.'

Trodelvy uses artificial antibodies, similar to those naturally produced by the immune system, which carry a chemotherapy medicine. They attach to cancer cells and then deliver their chemo payload directly into tumours.

The findings of the latest study on the drug  also known as sacituzumab govitecan-hziy  will renew hope that NHS spending body, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), will authorise its use in the UK after previously rejecting it.

The Mail on Sunday has learned NICE will meet on Tuesday to restart negotiations with US manufacturer Gilead over the 40,000-a-year per patient price tag.

Jo Taylor, founder of After Breast Cancer Diagnosis and patient advocacy group Met Up UK, welcomed the move: 'NICE's decision to reject Trodelvy was a huge disappointment.

I have friends who are desperate to access this drug, and considering how quickly the disease progresses, even a two-week delay is too much. These people need it immediately.

'I hope NICE comes to its senses and approves the drug. These women really need it to extend their lives.'

Professor Nick Turner, a breast cancer expert at the Institute of Cancer Research in London, said: 'It's not a cure but it can extend their lives, buying patients more time with their family and friends.'
Cheap foreign holidays could be a thing of the past as the ongoing travel chaos at airports threatens to drive up the price of flights, industry experts warn.

The rising cost of fuel combined with chronic staff shortages mean some airlines are warning passengers there will be no last-minute bargains this summer.

It comes after a disastrous week for the travel industry during which more than 350 flights were axed and customers complained of long delays in departure halls.

Many people were taking their first holiday since the pandemic, and nearly 11,000 flights  with the capacity for 1.9million passengers  were expected to land over the extended Bank Holiday weekend.

Cheap foreign holidays could be a thing of the past as the ongoing travel chaos at airports threatens to drive up the price of flights, industry experts warn

But the surge in demand coincided with staff shortages after the travel industry made tens of thousands of workers redundant during the Covid lockdowns.

They have been unable to re-hire quickly enough to cope and are offering generous financial incentives to recruit and retain staff.

But the extra costs, experts warn, will have to be passed on to customers already struggling with the spiralling cost of living.

John McEwan, former Thomas Cook managing director and ex-chairman of the travel association ABTA, said the problem was likely to drag on as the recruitment issues will not be solved quickly. Prices will ultimately have to go up because the cost of doing business will go up, he said. Its already starting to happen  you can see the prices to certain destinations rising.

British Airways cut 10,000 jobs, easyJet 4,500, and Ryanair and Virgin Atlantic 3,000 each. Airports made thousands more redundant.

BA is offering sign-on bonuses of 1,000 for below-wing jobs and easyJet is promising employees a 1,000 bonus if they stay until the end of the summer. Ground handlers at Gatwick have secured 10 per cent pay rises.

The rising cost of fuel combined with chronic staff shortages mean some airlines are warning passengers there will be no last-minute bargains this summer

Russias invasion of Ukraine has driven up the cost of crude oil, with a knock-on effect for jet fuel.

David Tarsh, managing director of the travel firm Tarsh Consulting, said a prolonged conflict may drive up the cost of flights further.

He added: The oil price component of a flight is about 30 per cent, so if there is a 50 per cent rise in oil prices over an extended period then you are looking at around a 15 per cent increase in the cost. Staffing is probably 50 per cent of your costs. In exceptional times, when youre desperate for staff, your recruitment costs go up.

Friedrich Joussen, chief executive of travel giant Tui, has already warned that the prices of holidays are rising as the company faces higher costs, adding: There will be practically no last-minute offers at low prices this summer.

Gordon Smith, The Mail on Sundays aviation expert, agreed: The usual run of last-minute discounts is very unlikely to materialise.

Flight cancellations mean more people on fewer services, so airlines and holiday firms wont need to slash prices to fill aircraft.
Have we reached peak Politics by WhatsApp?

Seditious MPs are increasingly resorting to more old-school methods of conspiring, now that messages on supposedly private chat groups have a habit of being leaked.

Backers of one Tory leadership hopeful tell me their lieutenants have been spending the Jubilee weekend drawing up a list of parliamentary office locations for their estimated 30 supporters if theres a no-confidence vote in Boris Johnson.

All MPs have an office on the Commons estate, but contacting them can be a mission impossible as they are spread over myriad corridors and buildings.

As an alternative to picking up the blower to shore up support, it makes it easier if we can go to their office and accost them, a source says.

Some Tory MPs have spent their Jubilee weekend planning how a no-confidence vote in Boris Johnson would play out

Meanwhile, Government advisers have found a new way to defeat the transparency laws while still using Facebook-owned WhatsApp.

No one needs to mysteriously lose their phones when things get hot. Instead, theres a new trend of simply switching on the disappearing message function. Consequently, anything the advisers send is automatically deleted within a short time frame.

Considering that all official communications should be accessible for any Freedom of Information Act request  not to mention future public inquiries  its another bad day for Government transparency.

Downing Street is reportedly lining up Lord (Francis) Maude for yet another efficiency review of Whitehall  the Tory ex-Minister having concluded one only last July.

The additional navel-gazing exercise would be another win for Maude, whose consultancy, FMA, advises foreign governments on efficiency and public-sector reform. I dont know why Whitehall wonks cant just read the 2018 speech Maude gave on government efficiency at a conference dubbed the Russian Davos in Moscow, where his tab was picked up by a Kremlin-funded institution.

Meanwhile, FMA has advised Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Putin-friendly Kazakhstan  regimes that need little help in the efficiency of eliminating opponents but not corruption.

Before another lofty Whitehall review role goes his way, I wonder if Maude, 68, could declare how much he earns from foreign states, which the Code of Conduct has required all peers to do since January.

Last night Maude claimed he has a mysterious arrangement exempting him from the rule. He declined to answer how his Stakhanovite work ethic for autocratic and Kremlin-friendly regimes is compatible with his seat in the Lords.

Big business lobbyists Edelman and the Aspen Institute think-tank are hosting talks on how to rebuild trust in diverse fields, from politics to climate change.

And who of unimpeachable integrity will give the key speech on trust in business?

Step forward Lord (John) Browne, who quit as boss of BP in 2007 (but kept his seat in the Lords) after being caught repeatedly lying in witness statements as part of a High Court battle to stop this newspaper publishing details of his business activities.

Stanley and Carrie Johnson, above, are patrons of the Conservative Animal Welfare Foundation, which last week spoke out against the cruel use of lumpfish in the salmon industry to eat lice off big fish.

After being used as cleaner fish for infested salmon, they are then ruthlessly disposed of.

Which brings to mind the equivalent cleaner fish of Westminster being sent out to defend Boris Johnson  the school of 2019-ers seemingly willing to say anything: Mark Jenkinson, Katherine Fletcher, Jacob Young and Joy Morrissey. When will they realise that they, too, are disposable?

Stanley and Carrie Johnson, pictured, are patrons of the Conservative Animal Welfare Foundation

Hats off to expenses watchdog IPSA, which tells me it will not require MPs who own a second home  on top of a taxpayer-funded main residence  to repay the 400 energy bill discount they get for it.

No wonder so few raised concerns over Rishi Sunaks latest Big Spender giveaway.
Right to Buy, introduced by the Thatcher government in 1980, led to more than 2.5million council homes being sold at discounted rates.

Although some Labour-controlled councils were opposed, the Tories argued the scheme was necessary for increasing home ownership and rewarding aspiration.

The sale price of a council house was based on its market valuation, discounted initially by between 33% and 50% (up to 70% for council flats), which was said to reflect the rents paid by tenants and also to encourage take-up.

The maximum discount was raised to 60% in 1984 and 70% in 1986, but by 1988, the average discount that had by then actually been given was 44%.

Some 6,000,000 people were affected, with around one in three actually buying their property.

Michael Heseltine, then the housing minister, declared that 'no single piece of legislation has enabled the transfer of so much capital wealth from the state to the people'.

Justifying the policy, he said: 'There is in this country a deeply ingrained desire for home ownership. The Government believe that this spirit should be fostered.

'It reflects the wishes of the people, ensures the wide spread of wealth through society, encourages a personal desire to improve and modernise one's own home, enables parents to accrue wealth for their children and stimulates the attitudes of independence and self-reliance that are the bedrock of a free society.'

However, many on the Left have savaged the programme, blaming it for slashing the national stock of council-owned properties and lengthening waiting lists.

When Labour returned to power at the 1997 general election, it reduced the discount available to tenants in local authorities which had severe pressure on their housing stock, including almost the whole of London.

However, Tony Blair's government never actually attempted to abolish Right to Buy - perhaps wary of the huge backlash that could result.
Oxbridge dons have been warned that discouraging applications from private schools could create a brain drain to American Ivy League schools.

The number of UK teenagers being poached by leading US universities such as Yale or Harvard has more than doubled in the past decade, sparking fears that more will follow if Britains top institutions overlook public school leavers in favour of state-educated applicants.

Barnaby Lenon, chairman of the Independent Schools Council, told The Mail on Sunday: Its a threat to the world-class status of Oxford and Cambridge and its also damaging to the country because a good proportion of the brightest children will never come back. They will fall in love with an American, get a good job in America and stay there.

Oxford and Cambridge now consider applicants social background when giving offers  a process called contextual admissions  to encourage more state school pupils to come forward.

The number of UK teenagers being poached from Oxford (pictured) and Cambridge by top US universities has more than doubled in the last decade

And last month Cambridge vice-chancellor Professor Stephen Toope said private schools must accept they would secure fewer places at the UKs top institutions in future, prompting Education Secretary Nadhim Zahawi to warn against tilting the system.

Now Mr Lenon has cautioned that the changes mean private school pupils are no longer made to feel valued by Oxbridge.

After his organisation found that the number of British students going to US universities rose from 411 in 2012 to 842 this year, he said: Independent schools and grammar schools which get the best results are all being approached by universities from America and being offered, in many cases, big bursaries and scholarships. So there is a brain drain developing.

Oxford and Cambridge dont often come to independent schools and say We want you to increase the number of applicants to a college or university, but we do get a steady stream of people coming from the top universities in the US and saying, We want your best applicants.

Not only are they not discriminating, but they are also positively encouraging in a way that British universities are not.

Both Oxford and Cambridge said all students were assessed on their individual merits, but acknowledged that reaching beyond their traditional recruiting grounds led to more applications and therefore fiercer competition for limited places.

A spokesman for Cambridge said: All those admitted to Cambridge deserve their places.

An Oxford spokesman added: We are confident all candidates to whom we make offers have fully earned them through their own achievements.
Eurotunnel passengers caught short while crossing the Channel can breathe a sigh of relief as its toilets have reopened  after Covid restrictions brought in 27 months ago were finally scrapped.

Le Shuttle, which whisks motorists between terminals in Folkestone and Calais, closed its loos in March 2020 at the start of the pandemic.

Despite England lifting all Covid travel restrictions in March this year, the French operator of Eurotunnel kept toilets out of bounds during the 35-minute journey.

Eurotunnel passengers caught short while crossing the Channel can breathe a sigh of relief as its toilets have reopened

Before the reopening, one disabled passenger, writing on Tripadvisor, said: I cant use the toilets on-board, apparently because of Covid.

'I have an internal pouch, so when I need to go to the toilet, it means now.

France lifted most of its Covid curbs in March, but did not remove the legal requirement to wear masks on public transport until May 16.

Eurotunnel said last night: Now that Covid travel restrictions have been lifted, we are able to reopen all the usual terminal and on-board services to welcome customers.
Britons offering shelter to Ukrainian refugees say they are 'ashamed' by the Government's continued failure to close a loophole that is keeping hundreds of children out of the UK.

More than 500 Ukrainian minors are believed to be stranded across Europe after a last-minute rule change by the Home Office meant those under 18 must be accompanied by a biological parent.

The intention was to combat people trafficking, but many had already left the warzone and been entrusted into the care of older siblings or other relatives.

The Home Office indicated a fortnight ago that it was going to address the problem, but has since done nothing.

Oleksandr Polishchuk, 24, and his 15-year-old sister Natallia are just one set of siblings caught up in the mess after a last minute Home Office rule change

Ukrainian refugees such as Oleksandr and Natallia are fleeing scenes of destruction such as these

Kevin Hennelly and Sandra Tilley, from Lincolnshire, had hoped to host Oleksandr Polishchuk, 24, and his 15-year-old sister Natallia, but the younger sibling cannot come to Britain despite her parents giving written permission.

'The boy's passport has now run out and he has travelled alone to a warzone in the east of Ukraine to try to meet his mother and get it renewed,' said Mr Hennelly.

'His father's battalion has been surrounded by Russians in the east and they have not heard from him.'

Condemning the Home Office policy, he added: 'It's apparently safer to leave children in a war-torn country riddled with rapes, murders and human trafficking instead of coming to live with a UK family who's had multiple DBS checks.'

The Ukrainian authorities also want children to be allowed into the UK if they have permission from their legal parents or guardians.

Laura Goedhuis, who is sponsoring Sasha Ivanenko, 15, and his aunt Nataliia, 40, said she was told last month by her local MP that the guardianship issues would be resolved within 'a few days'.

She said: 'We all feel incredibly let down by the Home Office and the Minister for Refugees, Lord Harrington. I feel I've been lied to again and again.'

A Government spokesman said: 'Due to safeguarding concerns, unaccompanied minors are only eligible under the Homes for Ukraine scheme if they are reuniting with a parent or legal guardian.'
Australia's defence minister and prime minister have raised concerns with China about a 'very dangerous' mid-air incident in the South China Sea.

It was announced on Sunday that an Australian spy plane was intercepted by a Chinese fighter jet while conducting surveillance on May 26.

Minister for Defence Richard Marles said the RAAF P-8A Poseidon aircraft was carrying out maritime surveillance when it was intercepted by a Chinese J-16 fighter aircraft in a 'dangerous manoeuvre'.

'What occurred was that the J-16 aircraft flew very close to the side of the P-8 maritime surveillance aircraft,' he told reporters in Geelong.

A P-8 Poseidon is seen with two Pilatus PC9 planes over Adelaide, Thursday, September 26, 2019

'In flying close to the side, it released flares, the J-16 then accelerated and cut across the nose of the P-8, settling in front of the P-8 at very close distance.

'At that moment, it then released a bundle of chaff which contained small pieces of aluminium, some of which were ingested into the engine of the P-8 aircraft.'

Mr Marles said the crew was unharmed, they responded professionally to the incident and returned the plane to the base.

The minister directed the Department of Defence and General Angus Campbell, the Chief of the Defence Force, to express concerns over the incident to Chinese authorities.

The encounter was Australia's first with the Chinese military since Labor won power in the federal election five days earlier.

Mr Marles said conducting surveillance over the South China Sea is 'completely within our rights under international law'.

'This is a body of water, which is deeply connected to Australia because of our trade, which goes through there,' he said.

'We have made representations to the Chinese government, but we will not be deterred from engaging in the activities which we are entitled to at international law in the future.'

A Chinese J-31 stealth fighter aircraft (pictured). A Royal Australian Air Force aircraft was intercepted by a Chinese J-16 fighter last month

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, speaking before a three-day diplomatic trip to Indonesia, said what happened was 'not safe'.

'We are concerned about this incident,' he told reporters in Perth on Sunday.

'This was not safe, what occurred, and we've made appropriate representations to the Chinese government expressing our concern at this.'

The intercept comes at a time of heightened tensions over Taiwan and Australian exports to China.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (left) and Minister for Defence Richard Marles (right) have both criticised an incident between a Chinese fighter jet and an Australian surveillance plane

At the Quad meeting with the leaders of the US, India and Japan last month, Mr Albanese defended President Joe Biden after his comments that the US would get militarily involved if China attacked Taiwan.

'President Biden has confirmed there is no change in the United States' position,' Mr Albanese said.

'I confirm there is no change in Australia's position.'

AUSTRALIA VERSUS CHINA TRADE WAR In October 2020, China imposed informal bans on Australian cotton and coal. A month later, Australian sugar, barley, lobsters, wine, copper and timber were added to the list. Six meat processors were banned from exporting beef to China. In December 2020, Australia lodged a complaint with the World Trade Organization over China's 80.5 per cent tariffs on its barley exports. In the filing, Australia claimed China deviated from WTO rules 26 times. In March 2021, China imposed duties of between 116.2 per cent and 218.4 per cent on Australian wine, making it too expensive for Chinese consumers. This effectively killed the market. Advertisement

On February 17 last, Defence said a P-8A Poseidon detected a laser illuminating the aircraft while in flight over Australia's northern approaches.

'The laser was detected... from a People's Liberation Army Navy vessel. Illumination of the aircraft by the Chinese vessel is a serious safety incident,' Defence said at the time.

'Acts like this have the potential to endanger lives. We strongly condemn unprofessional and unsafe military conduct.'

Defence said the actions could have endangered the safety and lives of Australian Defence Force personnel.

'Such actions are not in keeping with the standards we expect of professional militaries,' it said.

The Chinese vessel, in company with another Chinese ship, was sailing east through the Arafura Sea at the time.

Australian-Chinese relations have endured a difficult time since April 2020, when then-prime minister Scott Morrison called for World Health Organization investigators in Wuhan to have the same powers as UN-backed weapons inspectors.

The WHO was investigating the origin of the Covid-19 pandemic that has dominated world headlines for more than two years.

In November 2020 it emerged that the Chinese embassy in Canberra had drawn up what became known as the 'list of grievances' - 14 black marks that were China's reasons for the bad blood with Australia.

The list included: 'The incessant wanton interference in China's... affairs'; 'outrageous condemnation of the governing party of China'; and 'an unfriendly or antagonistic report on China by media'.

In January, three months before he became Prime Minister, Mr Albanese said Australia's relationship with China would remain difficult.

'Whoever's in government, it will be a difficult relationship,' he said. 'It will be difficult because the posture of China has changed.

China's ambitions to seize Taiwan led then defence minister Peter Dutton to emphasise last November that Australia would join a US mission to defend the democratic island's autonomy

'It is China that has changed, not Australia that has changed.

'I don't blame the (Morrison) government and never have for the current circumstances,' Mr Albanese added.

Mr Albanese said a Labor government would deal with China 'in a mature way. Not by being provocative for the sake of it to make a domestic political point.

Despite the rollercoaster ride of relations with China in the past two years, it remains Australia's biggest trading partner, with a strong reliance on Australian iron ore.
A 56-year-old career criminal is accused of zip tying and shooting dead the retired judge who sentenced him on armed burglary charges back in 2005.

Douglas K. Uhde, who was described as a loner and a big Donald Trump fan, is still in hospital after shooting himself following the murder of former Juneau County Judge John Roemer, 68, in his own Wisconsin home.

Uhde, who has a criminal record dating back at least two decades and once even broke out of jail and went on run for a month before he was caught, was previously sentenced by Roemer to six years in prison and nine years of extended supervision for armed burglary charges.

A year after he was sentenced, in March 2006, Uhde escaped from the minimum security Fox Lake Correctional Institute in Wisconsin.

According to court documents, Uhde was finally caught a month later while he was en route to give his girlfriend 'a flower.'

Following his re-arrest, Uhde was held at the maximum security Columbia Correctional Institution in Portage, Wisconsin. The same prison where serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer was beaten to death by inmates in 1994.

Despite his prison escape, Uhde was released just two years into his six year sentence after he filed an appeal from jail, arguing that his right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures was violated at the time of his original arrest.

This March 17, 2020, photo provided by the Wisconsin Department of Corrections shows Douglas K. Uhde, who is suspected in the shooting death of retired Juneau, Wis., County Judge John Roemer

Former Juneau County Judge John Roemer, 68, was found zip-tied and shot dead in his home

Yet, he was arrested shortly after his release, in March 2007, for driving a vehicle without consent, eluding an officer and obstruction. He served 18 months in prison on those charges.

Uhde last spent time in prison between March 2019 and April 2020 when he was taken into custody on a parole violation. He also spent time in prison for a parole violation in 2015.

Uhde's nephew, who declined to be named, told Heavy.com that the suspect was a supporter of Donald Trump and an 'obvious Republican.'

A Facebook page purported to belong to Uhde features a picture of Hillary Clinton with duct tape over her mouth with the statement 'tape this lying b*tch's mouth shut', as well as many pro Trump posts.

He described him as a loner, without a wife or kids, who had never had a long term relationship.

When asked about his uncle being suspected in the murder of Roemer, he said: 'People are pushed to the extremes. Anyone educated on it, understands it.'

'Any red-blooded American' understands 'we have a failed system.'

He denied report however, that Uhde was connected to a militia.

A SWAT team was seen at the judge's house. Authorities arrived on scene around 6.30am and were unable to breach the home until 10.15am as the shooter was inside the home

A large police presence and a SWAT team were on scene on Friday. When they got inside, they found the shooter in the basement with a reported self-inflicted gunshot wound. The shooter was taken to a medical facility in critical condition

The suspect pictured on his Facebook page in April 2020, shortly after his release prison

The suspect's address was in Friendship, Wisconsin, according to the Wisconsin Department of Corrections website which listed him as 'Active community supervision.'

Friendship is around 30 miles east of Roemer's home in New Lisbon.

Uhde's prison escape in 2006 wasn't the first time that he broke out of prison.

In 1994, Uhde, then 28, climbed over an and 8-foot tall razor wire fence in Bastrop County jail, Texas. At the time, Uhde was in custody on a parole violation.

According to Heavy.com, Uhde had previously been arrested in the Lone Star State on forgery charges.

A family friend named Joshua told The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that, despite Uhde's criminal record, he was shocked he would allegedly kill a judge.

'Im still kind of expecting someone to say it wasnt him,' he said.

Joshua said that the last time her heard from Uhde, the suspect was moving to start his life over in either Kentucky or Tennessee. Prior to that he had been living with Joshua's family following his 2020 release from prison.

Joshua went on to say that he did not know Uhde to be part of a militia nor to have any animosity toward public officials. He said: 'The fact that I'm being told that he did this is gut-wrenching.'

Law enforcement always believed Roemer's murder was 'targeted'.

It now appears it was tied closely to the sentencing of Uhde's 2001 burglary.

In 2002, he was sentenced to 10 years in prison and seven years supervision by Judge James Miller. That was in addition to being forced to undergo psychiatric treatment.

However, Uhde won an appeal in the case over court procedures as the suspect alleged that he didn't understand the ramifications of pleading not guilty in the case.

The case was reopened with Roemer at the helm in February 2005. Uhde was sentenced to six years in prison and nine years of extended supervision in April 2005. Uhde pleaded guilty to the charges.

Mitch McConnell and Gretchen Whitmer were reportedly on a shooter's hit list, that was found inside his car at the scene of the shooting. The shooter killed a former Juneau County judge in his home on Friday morning

Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers was also reportedly on the hit list

Around 6:30 a.m. on June 3, Juneau County Sheriff's officers responded to Judge John Roemer's home in New Lisbon after receiving a call about an armed person at the residence.

Officers stormed the judge's house around 10.15am on Friday where they found Uhde in a critical condition after shooting himself and Roemer zip-tied to a chair and dead.

Inside the suspect's car, investigators found a hit list that included names such as Senator Mitch McConnell, Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer.

'This does appear to be a targeted act,' Attorney General Josh Kaul said. The AG also said the politicians have been notified of the hit list.

'Those who may have been other targets have been notified of that, but we are not aware of any active threat to individuals,' he said at a press conference.

'At this point, we are not aware of any evidence indicating that there is any active danger to other individuals.

'If we become aware of any specific ongoing threat, we will certainly notify people when we are aware of that.'

Roemer is seen in court, before his 2017 retirement. On Friday he was murdered by a 56-year-old man

The case is being handled as a homicide and a domestic terrorist case and authorities are looking into court records.

Law enforcement believes the shooter's outrage has to deal with a court case. Donna Voss, who lives next door, told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel she was shocked.

'One of my neighbors called and said what's going on, what's going on. It was really surprising something like this would happen around here. I still can't comprehend it.'

She said she heard police telling the person inside: 'Come out with your hands up.' Voss added of Roemer: 'He was such a nice guy. Church goer. It's terrible.'

Jackie, a former teacher who lives nearby, said she knew Roemer through two of his children, who were students of hers.

'He walks his dogs all the time,' she said. 'He's friendly, a nice enough guy.'

Roemer served as a Juneau County judge from 2004 until 2017. He had previously spent 12 years as assistant district attorney, and had worked as an assistant state public defender in Baraboo, Wisconsin.
A 16-year-old boy was fatally stabbed at a party in western Sydney in an attack police believe was over a girl.

The boy died from a single stab wound that authorities believe occurred after the victim told another partygoer 'your girlfriend is trying to hit on me'.

Emergency services rushed to the home in Ropes Crossing near Blacktown on Saturday night, but he was unable to be revived.

A 16-year-old boy was fatally stabbed at a party in western Sydney in an attack police believe was over a girl

Emergency services rushed to the home in Ropes Crossing near Blacktown on Saturday night, but he was unable to be revived

Police allege the killer was the boyfriend of the girl, with the confrontation occurring on the street out the front of the party.

The victim and the girl's boyfriend walked onto the road, with the alleged attacker joined by two other male friends, according to Seven News.

Detective Chief Inspector Paul Tickner said the alleged attacker was invited to the party by his girlfriend, who was already there.

'Young boys, probably with some hormones running through their system, and somebody thought they had to defend the rights of their girlfriend at the scene,' he said.

'Unfortunately it's led to a young boy being killed. They shouldn't have been carrying knives in the first place.'

The 16-year-old died at the scene, despite police and paramedics performing CPR on him.

Police allege the offender was the boyfriend of the girl, with the confrontation occurring on the street out the front of the party

The victim and the girl's boyfriend walked onto the road, with the alleged offender joined by two other male friends

His father said the boy was about to start his apprenticeship.

'My son was a good kid. He was a good kid with a lot of potential,' he said.

'He was going to start an apprenticeship, air conditioning, in a few days. He is going to be missed.'

Mt Druitt Police are investigating the stabbing alongside the state's homicide squad, but no arrests have been made.

They are speaking with party guests who witnessed the fatal stabbing, and are trying to speak with the boyfriend.

At this stage, authorities don't believe the stabbing was gang-related.

Anyone with information on the stabbing was urged to contact Mt Druitt Police.
A total of 16 people have been arrested by police for a range of offences at the Creamfields South festival.

The dance event in the grounds of Hyland Park in Chelmsford was allegedly host to drugs, theft, offences under the Public Order Act, sexual assault, and assault over the two-day camping festival.

Essex Police added that drugs were their biggest target during the operation and added that most people were 'well behaved' during the festival.

The 50,000 capacity Creamfields South camping festival which drew dance music heavyweights took place from Thursday to Saturday.

A total of 16 people have been arrested by police for a range of offences at the Creamfields South festival. Pictured: A stock image of Creamfields

Superintendent Nick Morris said: 'Our policing operations for the festival were a success this year with just a small number of crimes reported to us.

'These were mostly drug offences, with the majority of people going well behaved, in good spirits and enjoying the performances on show.

'I would like to thank my officers and staff for the hard work dedication in helping to make our policing plans a success. I would like also praise our partners and Festival Republic in helping to keep ensure this festival was a safe one.'

In the run up to the festival Essex Police said it worked closely with the organisers, Festival Republic, and Chelmsford City Council, Essex County Fire and Rescue Service, British Transport Police and East of England Ambulance Service to mitigate any crime.

Essex Police said the arrests were related to drugs, theft, offences under the Public Order Act, sexual assault, and assault at the big electronic music festival in Hylands Park. Pictured: Hylands House

Their policing plans included intelligence checks to disrupt drug activity and disorder, roads policing operations to deal with drug and drink driving and officers outside to address any anti-social behaviour or welfare concerns.

Festival Republic were responsible for safety and security at the festival.

But Essex Police also had a small hub within the venue to allow officers to detain offenders so they did not have to take them to a custody suite.
North Korea test-fired a series of eight short-range ballistic missiles in just over 35 minutes from multiple locations toward the sea on Sunday.

The launches, which were confirmed by South Korean military officials, come just a day after the United States and South Korea ended Naval exercises in the Philippine Sea meant to bolster both countries' defenses in the region.

The launches continue a streak of weapons demonstrations from North Korea that American and South Korean officials say could culminate with a nuclear test explosion from Pyongyang for the first time since 2017.

The eight firings may have set a single-day record for North Korean ballistic launches. The missiles were fired in succession from areas including the Sunan region near the capital, Pyongyang, according to South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff.

South Korea's military didn't immediately say how far the missiles flew but noted it has heightened its monitoring in case the North fires more missiles.

Japanese Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi said the country's military detected at least six launches between the ranges of 180 and 240 miles conducted from North Korea's inland and western and eastern coastal areas.

North Korea test-fired a salvo of eight short-range ballistic missiles from multiple locations toward the sea on Sunday, South Korea's military said. News reports of the test play in Seoul, South Korea

North Korea test-fired a salvo of eight short-range ballistic missiles from multiple locations toward the sea on Sunday, South Korea's military said, just a day after the United States and South Korea cut short major military exercises due to fears of a nuclear test

In this photo provided by the North Korean government, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, center, watches a military parade to mark the 90th anniversary of North Korea's army at the Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang, North Korea, on April 25, 2022

He said the North was apparently practicing its capability to conduct a quick succession of launches from multiple locations and added that none of the missiles fell inside Japan's exclusive economic zone.

The launches came a day after the U.S. aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan concluded a three-day naval drill with South Korea in the Philippine Sea, apparently their first joint drill involving a carrier since November 2017, as the countries move to upgrade their defense exercises in the face of growing North Korean threats.

The office of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol said his national security adviser, Kim Sung-han, will convene a National Security Council meeting to discuss the launches.

Japanese Prime Minster Fumio Kishida called for maximum efforts to gather information about the launches and to ensure the safety of aircraft and vessels, although there were no immediate reports of damages.

The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command said it was aware of North Koreas multiple ballistic missile launches but assessed that the event doesn't pose an 'immediate threat to U.S. personnel or territory, or to our allies.'

The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command said it was aware of North Koreas multiple ballistic missile launches but assessed that the event doesn't pose an 'immediate threat to U.S. personnel or territory, or to our allies'

In this photo provided by South Korea's Defense Ministry, U.S. nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan, right, and South Korea's landing platform helicopter (LPH) ship Marado, second from left, sail during a joint military exercise in the Philippine Sea. The exercises ended just a day prior to the North Korean launch

The launches were North Korea's 18th round of missile tests in 2022 alone - a streak that has included the country's first demonstrations of intercontinental ballistic missiles in nearly five years - as it continues to exploit a favorable environment to push forward weapons development with the U.N. Security Council divided over Russia's war on Ukraine.

Experts say North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's brinkmanship is aimed at forcing the United States to accept the idea of the North as a nuclear power and negotiating economic and security concessions from a position of strength.

South Korean and U.S. officials say there are signs that North Korea is also pressing ahead with preparations at its nuclear testing ground in the northeastern town of Punggye-ri.

The North's next nuclear test would be its seventh since 2006 and the first since September 2017, when it claimed to have detonated a thermonuclear bomb to fit on its ICBMs.

On Friday, U.S. President Joe Biden's special envoy for North Korea, Sung Kim, said Washington is 'preparing for all contingencies' in close coordination with its Asian allies as he participated in a trilateral meeting in Seoul with his South Korean and Japanese counterparts over the nuclear standoff with North Korea.

North Korea test-fired a salvo of multiple short-range ballistic missiles toward the sea on Sunday, South Korea's military said, extending a provocative streak in weapons demonstrations this year that U.S. and South Korean officials say may culminate with a nuclear test explosion

The launches were North Korea's 18th round of missile tests in 2022 alone - a streak that has included the country's first demonstrations of intercontinental ballistic missiles in nearly five years

The United States has vowed to push for additional international sanctions if North Korea conducts a new nuclear test, but the prospects for further U.N. Security Council measures appear dim.

Russia and China vetoed a U.S.-sponsored resolution that would have imposed additional sanctions on North Korea over its latest ballistic tests on May 25, which South Korea's military said involved an ICBM flown on a medium-range trajectory and two short-range weapons.

Those tests came as Biden wrapped up his trip to South Korea and Japan, where he reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to defend both allies in the face of the North's nuclear threat.

North Korea in March launched an ICBM almost straight up at full-range capacity and saw it fly higher and for longer than any weapon it had ever tested, demonstrating the potential to reach the entirety of the U.S. mainland.

While Kim's ICBMs have garnered much international attention, he has also spent the past three years expanding his arsenal of shorter range solid-fuel missiles threatening South Korea and Japan.

He has punctuated his tests with repeated comments that the North would use its nuclear weapons proactively when threatened or provoked, which experts say portend an escalatory nuclear doctrine that may create greater concerns for neighbors.

Nuclear negotiations between Washington and Pyongyang have stalled since 2019 over disagreements in exchanging the release of crippling U.S.-led sanctions against North Korea and the North's disarmament steps.

Despite deepening economic woes, Kim has shown no willingness to fully surrender an arsenal he sees as his strongest guarantee of survival and is clearly trying to convert the dormant denuclearization talks into a mutual arms reduction negotiation with the United States, experts say.

Kim's pressure campaign comes as the country deals with a deadly COVID-19 outbreak across his largely unvaccinated autocracy that lacks public health tools.

GAVI, the nonprofit that runs the U.N.-backed COVAX distribution program, said Friday it understands that North Korea has accepted an offer of vaccines from ally China and has started to administer doses.

It isn't immediately clear how many doses of which vaccines the North received or how the country was rolling them out.
Being obese as a teenager doubles the risk of developing type 1 diabetes, a form of the disease not usually associated with weight.

Researchers in Israel discovered the link after analysing the medical records of almost 1.5 million people, aged 16 to 29, undergoing medical tests before military service.

The fattest five per cent had twice the chance of suffering from type 1 diabetes, against those of a healthy weight

The fattest five per cent had twice the chance of suffering from type 1 diabetes, against those of a healthy weight.

For the overweight, there was a 54 per cent increased risk.

The team behind the research, presented this weekend at the annual meeting of the American Diabetes Association and published in the journal Diabetologia, said: Our findings have public health implications.

The prevalence of adolescent obesity is rising worldwide at an alarming rate, with dire projections for the near future.

A quarter of children in England are obese when they leave primary school, according to the National Child Measurement Programme  a proportion that has been rising for years.

Type 1 diabetes is known to be an auto-immune disease  one in which the body mistakenly attacks itself.
The victim told the courtroom that she gave birth to the baby

The abuse ended, she said after she learned that she was pregnant

The victim gave an emotional testimony detailing how Scott sexually assaulted her at least 30 times that started in early 2016 and ended in 2017

The judge sentenced Scott to 85 years in prison and to pay $10,000 in fines

Jackson County Circuit Judge Kathy King Jackson described the evidence in the case as 'overwhelming,'

Jacob Blair Scott, 44, was found guilty of nine counts of sexual battery, four counts of touching a child for lustful purposes, one count of child exploitation

A military veteran accused of staging his suicide to avoid criminal charges for raping his 14-year-old stepdaughter, who later became pregnant, has been sentenced to 85 years in prison.

Jacob Blair Scott, 45, was found guilty on nine counts of sexual battery, four counts of touching a child for lustful purposes and one count of child exploitation on Thursday.

Scott showed little emotion when the verdict was read in the Jackson County Circuit Court located in Pascagoula, Mississippi, for the heinous crime, The Sun Herald reported.

The convicted-rapist was supposed to turn himself in to face charges of assaulting the teen, but faked his death in July 2018.

Investigators found Scott's small boat off the coast of Orange Beach, Alabama, They also found a gun and a suicide note but little forensic evidence confirming that a suicide occurred.

For more than a week, the authorities searched for a body in the Gulf of Mexico, but nothing surfaced, US Marshal's said.

Jacob Blair Scott, 45, is led into the courtroom for his sentencing hearing following a trial in which the jury gave its verdict that Scott was guilty on all charges in Jackson County Circuit Court in Pascagoula, Miss., on Thursday, June 2, 2022. Scott, convicted of sexually assaulting a girl and impregnating her when he was 40 and she was 14, was sentenced him to 85 years in prison

Scott cried on the stand as he spoke about his personal demons. District Attorney Angel Myers McIlrath and Assistant District Attorney Justin Lovorn excoriated Scott for trying to blame his mental state, a failing relationship and even the victim for the sexual assaults

Scott, who was living under a pseudonym, was captured in early 2020 at an RV park in Oklahoma where he had been living.

On Thursday, Jackson County Circuit Judge Kathy King Jackson described the evidence in the case as 'overwhelming,' and sentenced the military veteran to 85 years in prison. She also ordered him to pay $10,000 in fine.

'It's more evidence than I've probably ever seen,' Jackson said, in part.

At the trial, the victim wept as she detailed the terror she encountered daily at the hands of her stepfather during her testimony.

She told the courtroom the disturbing details of how Scott sexually assaulted her at least 30 times that started in early 2016 and ended in 2017.

The abuse ended after she learned that she was pregnant.

The young victim told the judge and the jury that she gave birth to the baby.

Investigators found Scott's small boat off the coast of Orange Beach, Alabama, They also found a gun and a suicide note but little forensic evidence confirming that a suicide occurred

The gun that the authorities found on a small boat located off the coast of Alabama. The authorities conducted a search in the Gulf of Mexico in search of a body that was never there.

District Attorney Angel Myers McIlrath expressed disgust towards Scott, and compassion for the young victim.

McIlrath and the Assistant DA Justin Lovorn reprimanded Scott for trying to put the blame on a host of issues from his mental state, post-traumatic stress, failing relationship and even the girl for the sexual assaults, when he committed the crime.

Before the sentencing he pleaded with the judge to review his medical records that indicated that he was heavily medicated, which impaired his judgement.

'I was a good man,' Scott said 'This aint who I am.'

McIlrath said she did not believe Scott and called his defense a 'hail Mary' tactic to try to get leniency, before handing down the sentence.

The handwritten note he left on his boat when he tried to trick the authorities into thinking he killed himself to avoid facing the heinous crime

'This is the first time in my 18 years I have ever seen anything so brazen and so vile,' the judge said. 'This is about blaming the 14-year-old. This whole trial was about humiliating the 14-year-old who had no choice.'

Authorities said Scott had assaulted his stepdaughter while his wife and teenage daughter slept in their Mississippi home

The victim's mother only found out about the sick abuse that her daughter had to endure at the hands of her rapist husband when the victim's older sister took her to a hospital.

It was at the hospital when she learned that she was 10 weeks pregnant. A DNA test later confirmed it was her stepfather's baby, The Daily News reported.

Scott of Moss Point, Mississippi, was awarded a Purple Heart in 2011 for injuries he received while deployed in Iraq, according to the U.S. Marshals Service.

They also which listed him as one of its 15 most wanted fugitives, Associated Press reported.
Tasmanian Greens leader Cassy O'Connor has been slammed for calling Amber Heard the 'abuser' during her defamation trial with Johnny Depp.

Ms O'Connor appeared to side with Depp in a series of posts she made on Twitter throughout the course of the trial between the Hollywood actors.

Depp sued Heard for defamation over a Washington Post article where the actress claimed she was a 'public figure representing domestic abuse'.

Ms O'Connor claimed Heard was 'not the victim' and instead a 'serial liar' and 'perpetrator'.

Tasmanian Greens leader Cassy O'Connor has been slammed for calling Amber Heard the 'abuser' during her defamation trial with Johnny Depp

Mr Depp had sued Ms Heard for defamation over a Washington Post article where the actress claimed she was a 'public figure representing domestic abuse'

'Sigh... I don't know if you caught much of the trial but the jury was presented with zero evidence Depp physically abused or sexually assaulted Heard,' she wrote in one tweet.

'In contrast, they heard audio of her admitting hitting him multiple times and severing his finger, viciously verbally abusing him.'

Her tweets have sparked outrage with advocates for domestic violence sufferers claiming they were 'highly distressing' to victims of abuse.

Engender Equality policy and communications officer Elinor Heard said Ms O'Connor should have been addressing domestic violence issues closer to home.

'It is really surprising that any politician or public commentator would feel the need to weigh in on a celebrity trial between American actors and millionaires and see that as an issue above and beyond the chronic crisis in family violence in our communities, which is playing out every day of the week,' she told The Mercury.

Social media users also hit out at the Greens leader, questioning why she chose to weigh in on an overseas trial.

'Tasmanian greens leader Cassy O'Connor deciding defending Johnny Depp is the hill she wants to die on,' one wrote.

Another added: 'You are an MP. You don't need to comment on the outcome of contentious DV cases in other countries. Get a grip.'

Daily Mail Australia contacted Ms O'Connor for comment.

Ms O'Connor claimed Heard was 'not the victim' and instead a 'serial liar' and 'perpetrator' among other things

Heard meanwhile won just one of her three countersuit claims, which related to statements made by Depp's lawyer suggesting she and friends had trashed their apartment before calling the police out

After less than three days of deliberation, the jury ruled in favor of all three of Depp's defamation claims against Heard, finding that she had falsely accused him of domestic abuse.

The actor was awarded $15 million - $10 million in compensation and $5 million in punitive damages.

Heard meanwhile won just one of her three countersuit claims, which related to statements made by Depp's lawyer suggesting she and friends had trashed their apartment before calling the police out.

She was awarded $2million in compensatory damages out of the $100 million she was seeking in her countersuit against her ex-husband and received zero dollars in punitive damages.

The judge later reduced Depp's $5 million punitive damages award to the Virginia maximum of $350,000, reducing Depp's total to $10.35 million  minus the $2 million he was ordered to pay Heard.

Depp walks away from the case with $8.35 million.
A winter welcome will blast Australia's east coast with powerful winds, showers, freezing temperatures, and fresh dumps of snow.

The pool of cool air swirling over the southeast will bring below average temperatures, showers, damaging winds, and snow.

The Bureau of Meteorology said conditions would turn icy on Sunday as the cold front moves across NSW, Victoria, and Tasmania.

Strong wind warnings are in place from the NSW mid-north coast down to the Eden coast in Victoria with blizzard-like conditions possible at higher elevations.

A winter blast Australia's east coast is set to bring powerful winds, showers, freezing temperatures and snow across the alpine regions (pictured, a pedestrian in Melbourne)

Residents at Hazelgrove near Oberon in NSW awoke to snow on Wednesday (pictured)

Winds averaging 80km/h to 90km/h with peak gusts of 130km/h are bringing fresh falls of snow to the Alpine resorts.

The bureau forecasts this area will receive up to 50 to 100cm of snow in coming days with residents in Hazelgrove near Oberon in NSW waking up to snow on Wednesday.

Melbourne has been urged to rug up this week as maximum temperatures plummet over the next nine days, three degrees below what is usually recorded.

Icy winds will keep temperatures low with significant gusts recorded on Sunday, including 111km/h at Mount Fuller and 107km/h at Falls Creek.

A severe weather warning for damaging winds in NSW was extended just before midday to include parts of Sydney, the Hunter, mid-north coast and northern tablelands.

Damaging winds are expected to take hold in Sydney on Monday morning.

The Bureau of Meteorology said conditions were set to redevelop on Sunday as the cold front (pictured) moves across NSW, Victoria and Tasmania

Meanwhile, Tasmania is forecast to be hit with gusty showers and potential thunderstorms as a cold front travels across the Bass Strait.

Bushwalkers were warned snow would lower to around 700m in the central plateau and western districts on Monday afternoon and evening.

Gusts in parts of western Tasmania are due to ramp up on Sunday evening and average 60km/h to 70km/h with the potential to hit 100km/h.

'Ski resorts are set to get another healthy dose of snow over the next few days as a cold front crosses the southeast, bringing a very cold airmass and plenty of moisture,' Weatherzone predicted.

'Snowfall is expected to be heaviest on Sunday and Monday, with lighter falls expected over the following few days.'

Weatherzone forecaster Angus Konta said a low pressure system was expected to bring some 'pretty significant' winds as it travelled across southern Tasmania.

The bureau forecasts that the Australian Alps will receive up to 50 to 100cm of snow in coming days (pictured, snow in Oberon, 180km west of Sydney, on Wednesday)

The island state could experience some persistent showers in the south and west, as the winds become more southerly.

He said gusts of 80km/hour could be expected across elevated parts of Victoria and NSW as snow covered the ground of the alpine ski resorts.

Minimum temperatures in the eastern states will drop 'a little bit' below average to bring some frosty mornings of just two to three degrees.

Showers could fall across Sydney's west on Monday morning, but clear a few hours later as residents are hit with winds reminiscent of the icy gusts last week.

Wednesday is expected to be the coldest day in Sydney this week with temperatures dropping to a maximum of 15C.

Snow is likely to fall across NSW's southern alpine regions and possibly for Victoria as temperatures plummet below freezing.

Australia's Bureau of Meteorology said a cloud band stretching across southern Southern Queensland and into New South Wales will bring patchy rain and moderate winds right across the region. Pictured: Pedestrians brave the cold in Sydney

Mr Konta said areas about 1,000m to 1,100m above ground level could expect snow.

Canberrans should brace for a 'pretty chilly' week even after the cold front which is expected to reach eastern NSW on Sunday night and Monday morning.

Those in the ACT's south and west at about 1,200m to 1,300m above ground can expect dumpings of snow to fall tonight and into tomorrow.

Queensland for the moment remains unaffected by the cold front, with some cooler temperatures recorded in the state's south.

Brisbane Airport recorded frosty temperatures of 6.4C - 4.4C below average - on Sunday morning.

Adelaide will have some cooler mornings this week with temperatures due to drop to below 10C each morning.

Southwesterly winds and cloud cover will keep temperatures at about 18C each day.

Cars were snowed in as Perisher copped 30cm of fresh snow on Thursday night (pictured)

Residents at Hazelgrove near Oberon in NSW awoke to snow on Wednesday (pictured)

Western Australia saw some light showers along the south coast however temperatures are expected to remain 'reasonably' mild.

Temperatures in Perth fell to just 3C on Sunday morning - 5C below average - however Monday and Tuesday are expected to be slightly warmer.

The west coast will remain a little cooler than average at about 18C, with a general warming expected to take temperatures to 21C later in the week.

Meanwhile, Darwin in Australia's Northern Territory has enjoyed hot and humid temperatures following the warmest May since 2016.

The bureau said isolated showers and storms could be expected on Sunday following a rare thunderstorm near Howard Springs and Pinelands.
Hyderabad: The Bharatiya Janata Party on Saturday released what it said was irrefutable evidence of the involvement of the son of an MIM MLA in the Jubilee Hills gang rape case of a minor girl. Dubbak BJP MLA M. Raghunandan Rao told reporters that after his revelation on Friday that the children of AIMIM leaders were among the culprits, he was asked by some police officials to provide evidence.

As an MLA, it is not my job to investigate a crime. But, since I was challenged to provide evidence, here it is, he said displaying a short video clip purportedly shot in a vehicle which showed four youth and a girl.

As a lawyer, I am aware that there are restrictions when minors are involved in such a case. The identity of the minor girl cannot be made out from the clip but you can clearly see the son of the MLA. If this evidence is not enough, then I can provide to the DGP the full video, along with some photographs of all those accused in the car, Raghunandan Rao said.

My appeal to the police, he said, is to conduct an impartial inquiry, investigate properly, without prejudice. Do not attempt to save those related to AIMIM leaders.

Raghunandan Rao said a CBI probe must be ordered by the state government into the incident, but if the state government had any reservations as the CBI was a central organisation, and the BJP was at power at the Centre, then the Chief Justice of India, an illustrious son of the Telugus, should order a probe by a sitting judge of the Telangana High Court into the incident.

He said, For those who might claim that the evidence I have presented today is not enough, and that the minor girl is not seen as resisting, my question is how can a girl resist when surrounded by four men. Even if they claim it was consensual, then the IPS officers who gave clean chits to those who were in the red Mercedes Benz with the girl must know that consent given by a minor is not valid under the law. Such pleas and excuses are illegal.

We have the full video, we will place all this before the court, I will fight till justice for the girl, Raghunandan Rao said. The TRS government, he said, was protecting the accused. I am asking K.T. Rama Rao who tweeted that anyone found guilty in the case must be punished. Whether they are from the TRS, or the MIM, they must be punished. But the descendants of Razakars are being given clean chits by the police, he said.

When we ask the police, they say they do not have all the CCTV footage because of power cuts, or some other lame excuse, then edit the videos to suit their narrative, he said. The police of Hyderabad are working under the influence of MIM leaders. If the Chief Minister believes what K.T. Rama Rao has tweeted, then he must order a CBI probe, he said.

He said the DCP of West Zone heading the probe was aware which MLAs son was involved in the case. Some of the children of these influential leaders were being sent away to Dubai to get them out of the public eye. The police were trying to show that those in the car that followed the red Mercedes Benz were the guilty ones. The MLAs sister owned the car, he said.

Who gave the money for hosting the party, who booked the pub as the venue, what happened to the booking register at the pub? How were minors allowed into the pub in the first place, Raghunandan Rao asked.
'Mr Bondi' has won $90,000 from NSW Police after he was dramatically arrested on the beach in the height of Sydney's lockdown.

Dimitri Moskovich, 55, was tackled and handcuffed in his Speedos on April 19 last year and charged with resisting an officer and failing to comply with a notice in a public place.

The colourful Russian-born personality maintained there were no signs at North Bondi's Ben Buckler Point, and he was entitled to go outside for essential exercise.

Police withdrew the charges in March and agreed to pay his legal costs of $25,000 - but Mr Moskovich launched a civil suit against them for maliciious and wrongful arrest and prosecution.

The case was to be heard later this month, but authorities agreed to settle the case, resulting in a $90,000 payout for Mr Bondi.

Sydney man Dimitri Moskovich (pictured) has won $90,000 from NSW Police after they agreed to settle his civil suit

Mr Moskovich told reporters after leaving court in March he couldn't believe such a thing could happen in Australia.

'I came to this country, it's a free country, when it happened to me I thought I was in Russia,' he said.

His lawyer Nick Hanna said he couldn't have broken lockdown laws because he wasn't disobeying any signage.

'Mr Moskovich could not have broken any law about contravening a council sign because there was no sign,' he said.

'This meant that the arrest of Mr Moskovich was unlawful and so he could not be guilty of resisting arrest.'

Dozens of shocked locals watched and filmed Mr Moskovich - wearing nothing but his signature red budgie smugglers - being arrested by two police officers.

In the distressing footage, Mr Moskovich was held down on the grass while the officers attempted to handcuff him.

Locals pleaded with police not to use handcuffs and let Mr Moskovich keep his 'dignity'.

Mr Moskovich's arrest (pictured) made headlines after he was filmed in a struggle with two NSW officers and now his lawyer argues the arrest involved 'unlawful force'

Dozens of shocked locals watched on and filmed Mr Moskovich (pictured), wearing nothing but his signature red budgie smugglers, being arrested by police officers

'Just cooperate with us okay?' the female officers told Mr Moskovich, who called out to onlookers to film the incident.

He begged police to allow him to go with them without being handcuffed first.

'Please guys, just stop. I'm not doing anything wrong. You started harassing me. You started with me about nothing,' he is heard saying.

'I'll come with you to the police station but I'm not giving you my arms.'

Police eventually handcuffed Mr Moskovich before putting him in the back of a police car.

He was then charged with resisting arrest and failing to comply with a notice in a public place.

At the time of his arrest, Bondi Beach had been closed for more than two weeks after the coronavirus outbreak.

Mr Moskovich is famous among the Bondi community, and is often seen working out on the famous promenade's outdoor gym.

Dimitri Moskovich sustained bruises to his wrist and a cut on his forehead after being pinned down by police

His arrest was also captured on an officer's body-worn camera, however the court heard it was only switched halfway through the interaction.

In the video Mr Moskovich is reportedly heard saying to two Rose Bay Police Station constables: 'You assaulted me for nothing you're abusing your power.'

The local celebrity then asks: 'Do I have to put my arms behind my back? Can you please tell me why?'

One of the officer's simply replies: 'You're under arrest'.

Mr Hanna said his client should never have been charged.

'His damages are extensive. In the interim however, the bare minimum NSW Police could do is issue an apology to Dimitri.'

NSW police told Daily Mail Australia in a statement the decision to drop the charges against Mr Moskovich was made following a review by senior officers at Eastern Suburbs Police Area Command and the prosecutors.

'An internal investigation is underway into the circumstances of arrest and conduct of involved officers,' NSW Police said.

'As the matter is ongoing, it would be inappropriate to comment further.'
A man who pretended to be a patient before he allegedly stabbed a doctor and two nurses inside a hospital has been revealed to have multiple arrests for assaulting cops.

Witnesses described the 'bloodbath' at the Encino Hospital Medical Center in the San Fernando Valley Friday after Ashkan Amirsoleymani, 35, reportedly attacked.

Amirsoleymani has been booked on three counts of attempted murder related to Friday's attack, the LAPD said Saturday.

He is being held on $3million bail. It was not immediately clear on Saturday whether he had an attorney who could speak on his behalf and the district attorney's office did not respond to an email asking whether charges have been filed.

Police have not yet disclosed Amirsoleymani's motive and Los Angeles Police Officer Rosario Cervantes said no other information was available Saturday.

The LAPD did say that Amirsoleymani had several previous run-ins with the law, including arrested twice in the past for assaulting police officers. He had been arrested as recently as last year.

Amirsoleymani walked into Encino Hospital Medical Center in the San Fernando Valley shortly before 4 p.m. Friday, police said.

He had parked his car in the middle of a street and went to the emergency room, where he asked for treatment for anxiety before stabbing the doctor and nurses, authorities said.

Ashkan Amirsoleymani (pictured on stretcher), 35, has been booked on three counts of attempted murder related to Friday's attack, the LAPD said Saturday

One dental hygenist who rushed over to help described the scene as a 'bloodbath'

The LAPD said that Amirsoleymani had several previous run-ins with the law, including arrested twice in the past for assaulting police officers. He had been arrested as recently as last year

Parham Saadat, a dental hygienist who works nearby, said that he and his coworker Faraz Farahnik ran across the street to help the victims.

'There was blood all over the floor, blood in the rooms, blood on the gurney the doctor was laying on,' Saadat told the newspaper. 'It was a bloodbath.'

Saadat said he later closed a storage room's door behind the suspect to keep him contained inside and only became afraid when they made eye contact.

'He just very calmly turned his face and looked at me through the window, then turned his head back around. No reaction,' he said. 'Thats where it kind of got me.'

The male attacker holed up in a room inside the hospital after the stabbing.

Parham Saadat (pictured left), a dental hygienist who works nearby, said that he and his coworker Faraz Farahnik ran across the street to help the victims

Amirsoleymani walked into Encino Hospital Medical Center in the San Fernando Valley shortly before 4 p.m. Friday, police said

Amirsoleymani was taken into custody at 5pm PST, according a representative for the hospital.

Fire officials said three victims were taken to a trauma center in critical condition. Police later said one was in critical condition and underwent surgery.

Dignity Health Northridge Hospital Medical Center said two of the victims have been treated and released. The third victim remains hospitalized in fair but stable condition, the TV station reported.

The hospital did not immediately respond to requests for comment Saturday.

The attack began around 3:50pm, and took place in the vicinity of the hospital's emergency room.

One of the victims of the Encino Hospital stabbing being taken away on a stretcher on June 3

A victim being being brought out of Encino Hospital after being stabbed by an attacker on Friday afternoon

Footage from KTLA News 5 shows a victim being taken out of the Encino Hospital in a wheelchair after being stabbed

Four people were stabbed at the Encino Hospital Medical Center in Los Angeles on Friday afternoon

The attack began around 3:50pm, and took place in the vicinity of the hospital's emergency room

LAPD said that the suspect had a lengthy record, including two arrests last year for resisting arrest, and for battery of a police officer.

The hospital declared an 'internal disaster,' and halted admitting new patients or allowing visitors to enter.

Footage from ABC 7 showed a victim being wheeled out on a stretcher, while scenes from KTLA News 5 showed another victim being taken out in a wheelchair.

The victims' identities are not yet known, but a witness told NBC LA that they saw two nurses and a female doctor with wounds.

A stretch of Ventura Boulevard outside the hospital remains closed.

The suspect (head visible at center) being loaded into an ambulance after being apprehended

Deputy Chief Alan Hamilton updates the media after the suspect was taken into custody

Emergency responders outside the Encino Hospital Medical Center on Friday afternoon after reports of stabbing attack inside

Benjamin Roman, an ultrasound technician, told NBC4 that before the stabbing, he saw the suspect, who had a dog with him and who might have been high on drugs because he looked anxious and was drenched in sweat.

After the hospital issued an 'internal triage' code, Roman said he saw a doctor and a nurse who had been stabbed.

'The doctor looked (like) she was in pain,' he said. 'There was a lot of blood and it looked like ... he might have got her abdomen.'

Nickels, in an email, said the hospital's staff faced the harrowing situation with 'incredible courage, calmness, and dedication.'

'Their focus throughout remained on the safety of staff and patients,' she wrote.

The attack came only two days after a gunman killed four people and then himself at a hospital in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The assailant got inside a building on the Saint Francis Hospital campus with little trouble, just hours after buying an AR-style rifle, authorities said.

The man killed his surgeon and three other people at a medical office. He blamed the doctor for his continuing pain after a recent back operation.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams vowed to New Yorkers that he will not be 'heavy handed' on illegal weed sales before cannabis is officially legalized later this year.

Adams mingled with the cannabis loving crowd at the Cannabis World Congress and Business event held at the Jacob Javitz Convention Center on Friday.

In late March 2021, former Governor Andrew Cuomo signed legislation that legalized the sale of recreational marijuana for adults 21 and over.

The licensing system that's supposed to regulate cannabis sales isn't expected to kick off until later this year.

But as the state has worked to get the licensing mechanics off the ground, dozens of unlicensed weed-selling operations have surfaced in the city this year alone. Times Square in Manhattan is one area that has seen an influx of cannabis trucks.

With marijuana possession now legal, police are focusing on other types of crimes in the city, The Daily News reported.

In the interim, Adams said that he doesn't see a need for 'cracking down on anyone caught dealing marijuana out of stores or on the street' in the interim

Instead of handing out fines or issuing arrests for those who sell weed, Adams is looking at the big picture and encouraging others to do the same as the the city moves closer to launching the legal market, the news outlet reported.

'There needs to be a system of not heavy-handedness, but going in and explaining to that store that, 'Listen, you can't do this,' give them a warning,' Adams said.

But, he did caution that there may be some form of enforcement for those who 'refuse to adhere to the rules.'

'If someone refuses to get in line after receiving a slap on the wrist for illicit weed pushing, though, 'some form' of enforcement may be warranted,' Adams said.

He continued: 'If they refuse to adhere to the rules, then you have to come back and take some form of enforcement actions, such as a summons, such as, you know, talking about their ability to sell alcohol,' he said.

The Mayor said $5 million has already been put aside in his executive budget proposal to provide support to New Yorkers on applications for recreational pot sales and cultivation licenses.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams said in April that he believes 'the cannabis industry could be a major boon to our economic recovery industry, creating new jobs, building wealth in historically underserved communities, and increasing state and local tax revenue'

A few New Yorkers (pictured) are following Mayor Adams orders to 'Enjoy yourself, light up.' Some even dressed the part like the man smoking a fat joint while wearing a very snazzy looking marijuana- patterned suit with matching top hat

The Friday show that featured dozens of new products highlighting what is hot in the world of hemp also had panel talks about the economic potential of the cannabis industry.

Something Adams is passionate about since he announced in April that the cannabis industry in New York City can help the economic recovery and potentially even the playing field.

'The cannabis industry could be a major boon to our economic recovery industry, creating new jobs, building wealth in historically underserved communities, and increasing state and local tax revenue,' Adams said in a release.

'With a new regulated adult-use cannabis market on the immediate horizon, now is the time for our city to make proactive investments to ensure the people disproportionately impacted by the criminalization of these substances can reap the benefits of the new industry.'

Adams, who encouraged people to spend some money and get high, did joke that he was a tad 'disappointed' that there wasn't 'a nice scent of weed' in the room.

On Friday, Adams wasn't high on the happy herb but appeared to be naturally euphoric as he mingled with the cannabis loving crowd on Friday at the Cannabis World Congress and Business event held at the Jacob Javitz Convention Center in midtown Manhattan

A truck that sells weed all day long pictured here on the Manhattan streets. Some of the items the vendors sells include vapes, edibles, flowers, and pre-rolled joints

Marijuana: States where it is fully legal and decriminalized Fully Legal * Alaska * Arizona * California * Colorado * Connecticut * District of Columbia * Illinois * Maine * Massachusetts * Michigan * Montana * Nevada * New Jersey * New Mexico * New York * Oregon * Rhode Island * Vermont * Virginia * Washington

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Marijuana sales can be a big draw for the city.

Governor Kathy Hochul's administration said that once the states licensing system is officially set in motion, New York can potentially be looking at more than $1.25 billion in marijuana tax revenue alone over the next six years, The Daily News reported.

Adams has been criticized for being soft on the city's crime as many New Yorkers have been growing weary over the latest spike in violence and crimes on the city streets and subways.

While murders and shootings are down 10 and roughly five percent respectively from 2021, overall crime in the Big Apple is up 39.24 percent so far in 2022.

That includes a 19 percent rise in felony assaults, a nearly 15 percent increase in rapes and a 40 percent jump in robberies.

In January, Adams unveiled a comprehensive plan to combat surge in crime. It included increased foot patrols as well as the revival of a plain clothes unit named Neighborhood Safety Teams.

He also launched his subway safety initiative in April, sending about 1,000 officers into the city's busy transit system to weed out crime and vagrancy.

Mayor Eric Adams (pictured Monday, May 30) campaigned on a platform of cracking down on crime. On Thursday, he appointed Andre Mitchell (not pictured) as his 'gun violence czar'

And on Thursday, Adams appointed Andre Mitchell as his 'gun violence czar.' In that position, he will co-chair a new anti-violence task force with Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright aimed at ending the city's gun epidemic.

The group will be comprised of Adams deputy mayors, NYPD Commissioner Keechant Sewell and Schools Chancellor David Banks.

'Everyone that impacts or touches the lives of the young people will be part of the solution of dealing with gun violence because we cant continue to believe that because you made an arrest, you solved the problem,' Adams said in a news conference.

'We want to make sure we give the resources to the people that need it thats on the ground. Were going to do more.'
A man has died after he was pepper sprayed in the face as police tried to arrest him.

The 41-year-old had been walking in the middle of the westbound lane of the M5 in Moorebank, south-west Sydney, at 3.35am.

Police were called to the highway before they attempted to arrest the man near the Moorebank Avenue off-ramp.

The 41-year-old had been walking in the middle of the westbound lane of the M5 at Moorebank, south-west Sydney, at 3.35am

'While attempting to take him into custody a struggle ensued, with one officer deploying OC spray to effect the arrest,' police said in a statement.

'A short time later, the man lost consciousness and NSW Ambulance paramedics were called.

'They took him to Liverpool Hospital, however, he was unable to be revived.'

State Crime Command's homicide squad launched an investigation into the man's death.

Drivers who were travelling along the M5 were encouraged to hand in any footage they might have captured on their dashcam.
An NYC Corrections captain has died after going under the knife in the Dominican Republican at the hands of a plastic surgeon who had been prosecuted in New York illegally carrying out procedures in the United States.

Tandra Bowser-Williams, 49, who worked on Rikers Island suffered a 'small stroke' one day after her fat transfer procedure at Dr. Hector Cabral's Centro Internacional de Cirugia Plastica Avanzada clinic in Santo Domingo on May 13.

Dr. Cabral pleaded guilty to one count of unauthorized practicing of medicine in October 2011 in New York and then returned to the Dominican Republic, where he still practices.

Butt lifts and fat transfers are some of the clinic's specialties.

Dept. of Correction Captain Tandra Bowser-Williams, 49, who worked on Rikers Island died after undergoing a plastic surgery procedure in Dominican Republic

Bowser-Williams underwent a fat transfer, operated on by Dr. Hector Cabral, pictured

Tragically she died before her devastated husband Curtis Williams could fly out to the clinic in the island nation to be by her side.

Days earlier, his companion of 26 years had promised him that he was going to love the results of her procedure but then he received a call from a nurse at the United Hearts Clinic that his wife had suddenly taken ill.

'Her exact words to me were "You're gonna love Dr. Cabral's work." I didn't care one way or another. I accepted my wife the way she was,' Williams told the Daily News.

'They brought my wife out of the medically induced coma so she could unlock her phone, so that's how she was able to get in touch with me,' he explained.

Williams was told by her surgeon that a stroke had 'swallowed her brain.'

Husband, Curtis Williams, left, was told his wife had suffered a 'massive stroke' but was unable to be by her bedside before she passed away

'Her exact words to me were "You're gonna love Dr. Cabral's work." I didn't care one way or another. I accepted my wife the way she was,' Williams said. They had been together 26 years

'I heard my wife in the background, and she was complaining about her stomach and her butt.'

Williams told the News that his wife was a dedicated mother had 'nerves of steel,' and was raising her own son together with her two sisters, a young nephew, and three foster kids.

Cabral had previously been prosecuted in 2011 for unauthorized practicing of medicine in New York

'Everybody is distraught. She was the heart, the lifeline of the family. The heartbeat,' he said.

Her co-workers on Rikers also paid tribute to Bowser-Williams.

'She was always a good captain, never tried to escape work, always worked in the jails, always worked with inmates,' said President of the Correction Captains union, Patrick Ferraiuolo to the Daily News. 'It's a real loss. She certainly didn't deserve this. She was a trooper.'

It does not appear that Bowser-Williams' death is under investigation, but Cabral had been in trouble with the law before having been indicted in 2011 by then-New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman.

Cabral avoided jail after making a deal with prosecutors and had to pay a $5,000 fine, $23,055 in restitution and conduct 250 hours of community service in the Dominican Republic

Cabral had examined at least 10 women in the Washington Heights area of Manhattan in local health spas and beauty parlors without a license before luring them to the Dominican Republic for operations.

Some of the women were left disfigured legal papers revealed.

Cabral avoided jail after making a deal with prosecutors and had to pay a $5,000 fine, $23,055 in restitution and conduct 250 hours of community service in the Dominican Republic.

Cabral's clinic has been shut down on numerous occasions due to allegations of faulty procedures which have caused deaths, before reopening.

In 2017, at least four women also died during surgeries with Cabral at the same clinic while eight New Yorkers who underwent surgery at his clinic contracted skin infections.

In July 2018, Katherine Jacqueline Perez Minaya traveled from the U.S. to Cabral's clinic and suffered a deadly heart attack during surgery.

In May 2019, following the death of patient Altagracia Diaz, Cardi B took to Instagram account to offer her condolence to Diaz's family and shared her own close brush with Cabral explaining how she had previously scheduled a surgery with before backing out.

'I was once going to operate with him, but I had a feeling and I did it with another doctor,' the Grammy Award-winning rapper said.

'You realize that when God opens your eyes it is for a reason. ... I am sad and it hurts because I know that the family is very hurt right now, but it could be my family that was suffering. This was like God giving me a sign.'
Hard-working Australians can follow 10 little-known hacks to make the most of their tax returns this year.

Australian residents can begin to lodge their returns after June 30 and have until October 31 to file their claim to the Australian Taxation Office.

While some may choose to pay an accountant to sort out their returns, others may decide to do it themselves and save some money in the process.

Ten simple tricks could help boost tax returns and lead to hundreds more dollars going back into the pockets of deserving Australians.

However, the ATO warned it would resume debt collections, after they were paused during the Covid pandemic, and crack down on 'double dippers' - taxpayers who make claims on the same item more than once.

Hard-working Australians wanting to make the most of their tax returns have been encouraged to follow 10 little-known hacks

The first hack is that residents who buy a bag to carry work essentials between their home and the office can make a tax claim on the item

The first hack is that residents who buy a bag to carry work essentials between their home and the office can make a tax claim on the item.

It can be a briefcase, satchel, backpack, or handbag - as long as it is big enough to carry the essential work equipment.

Australians can claim the full amount in one go if the bag cost $300, or make a claim over several years, and take into account depreciation, if it cost more.

Secondly, workers who are required to drive around a lot can also make a claim.

They are encouraged to keep a logbook to track the kilometres and keep the receipts from any expenses spent on the trip.

This includes meals, accommodation and transport fares.

TY Francis Accounting & Advisory principal Helen Francis warned drivers to not get too carried away when making the claim.

'The 5,000km set rate is definitely less scrutinised, but I wouldn't say it's an infallible way to claim car expenses  I've had a number of clients audited on this point.'

Thirdly, workers are encouraged to check out the occupation and industry guides set out by the ATO.

The items that a worker can claim on their tax return depends on their industry.

For example, office workers and teachers may be able to make a claim for stationery while sex workers can get some money back if they bought lingerie.

Secondly, workers who are required to drive around a lot can also make a claim

The ATO has warned taxpayers could actually receive less as they resume debt collections, after it was paused during the Covid pandemic, and crack down on 'double dippers' - taxpayers who make claims on the same item more than once

Fourthly, employees are still able to claim money if they have continued to work from home since the pandemic.

Assistant Commissioner Tim Loh said there were two ways of making the claims - by using the 'shortcut' or 'actual costs' methods.

The shortcut method is simpler and allows employees to claim money on the amount of hours they work.

The actual costs method takes longer as workers make claims on individual items.

Ms Francis said workers were better off using the shortcut method and claiming 52c for each hour.

'In most cases I've seen  and I've lodged 4,000-plus returns during the COVID period  reverting to the old 52c per hour WFH method for electricity and decline in value of furniture works out better, with a percentage claim on top for internet, phone and computer consumables,' she said.

Thirdly, workers are encouraged to check out the occupation and industry guides set out by the ATO

Workers can make a claim for any money spent on union fees or donated to charity.

They can also get money back if they bought any materials to further their education in their industry, including books, magazines, and newspapers.

Eighthly, homeowners with an investment property should pay their strata fees or insurance in advance to reduce the amount they can claim next year.

Ninthly, workers can make a one-off payment to their super from their post-tax savings at the end of the financial year.

The tenth hack is that people should consider investing money under a company structure to save 17 per cent on their investment income.

Every dollar of an investment income earned by an individual is taxed at 47 per cent. The maximum tax rate is reduced to 30 under a company structure.

The ATO warned that it will ramp up its efforts to chase up taxpayers with outstanding bills as it works through a backlog of debts.

Ten simple tricks could help boost tax returns and lead to hundreds of more dollars going back into the hip pockets of deserving Australians

The ATO briefly paused its debt collection because of Covid, but is resuming its efforts now the worst of the pandemic is behind us.

H&R Block director of tax communications Mark Chapman said the taxman was directing its focus on small business tax debts.

'That's pretty much gone into reverse now, the ATO takes the view that we're heading back to normal, Covid's done and dusted, therefore it's pursuing small business tax debts,' he said.

ATO deputy commissioner Vivek Chaudhary added: 'We understand that a lot of people  especially small businesses  have done it tough through Covid and may now have a tax debt.

'Our message is  don't stick your head in the sand  even if you can't pay the full amount owed straight away, please contact us or your registered tax professional to discuss and we will work with you to set up an appropriate payment arrangement.'
Donald Trump took to his Truth Social platform to launch a scathing attack on former Speaker of the House Paul Ryan Saturday.

The former president referred to Ryan, 52, as a 'pathetic loser' as he called for him to be ousted from the board of Fox News.

Trump's social media post came after Ryan declared Republicans didn't have 'the guts' to vote to impeach the former president in the wake of January 6.

Trump wrote in part: 'Did anyone notice that Fox News went lame (bad!) when weak RINO Paul Ryan, who is despised in the Great State of Wisconsin for being 'a pathetic loser,' went on the Fox Board.'

Trump launched his new attack on his Truth Social platform

In his criticism of Fox, Trump said that the network 'won't even talk about an obviously Rigged 2020 Presidential Election, not even a mention'

Ryan was elected ten times consecutively in Wisconsin's 1st congressional district between 1999 and 2019 before his retirement.

In his criticism of Fox, Trump said that the network 'won't even talk about an obviously Rigged 2020 Presidential Election, not even a mention.'

Trump continued: 'Thats why our Country is going to HELL - Elections have consequences. Get Ryan off your Board and report the News as it should be reportedAnd stop taking negative ads from the perverts, and others!!!'

The 45th president did not name any ads specifically that he felt were bought by perverts.

Online records show that Ryan rakes in just under $335,000 from Fox per year. He joined the board in March 2019.

Meanwhile, Ryan has been on the campaign trail in South Carolina where he endorsed incumbent Rep. Tom Rice this week.

In February, Trump endorsed South Carolina state Rep. Russell Fry in the race to oust Rice in the June 14 primary, as several Republicans are challenging the 10-year incumbent.

Rice was one of the few Republicans who voted to impeach Trump in the wake of the January 6 Capitol riot.

Ryan said in his endorsement in Florence, South Carolina, that there were many in the GOP who wanted to voted along the same lines as Rice but 'didn't have the guts to do it.'

He added: 'There are a lot of people who say theyre going to vote their conscience, theyre going to vote for the Constitution, theyre going to vote for their convictions but when it gets hard to do that they dont do it.'

Ryan urged voters to show up for Rice instead of 'people who are just trying to be celebrities who may be trying to help Trump with his vengeance.'

He concluded his remarks saying: 'Thats not who voters want, voters want people focused on their solutions not on Trumps vengeance and that to me is a really clear cut case here.'

Rice also received the backing of former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, who at one-time was a Trump ally, but has gone back to criticizing him.

Among those who also criticized Ryan for his remarks are former Republican congressman and Trump critic Joe Walsh who said: 'Paul Ryan would've been one of those 'gutless Republicans.' Ryan pisses me off bcuz he's had a big platform the past 4 yrs but he's said absolutely NOTHING as Trump incited an insurrection, attacked our democracy, & destroyed the truth.'

In a May 2021 statement, Trump was equally critical of Ryan saying: 'As a Republican, having Paul Ryan on your side almost guarantees a loss, for both you, the Party, and America itself!'

Trump added that Ryan was a 'curse to the Republican Party. He has no clue what needs to be done for our country.'

Those remarks came after Ryan delivered a speech at the Reagan Library in Simi Valley, California. Ryan said, without naming Trump: 'If the conservative cause depends on the populist appeal of one personality, or on second-rate imitations, then were not going anywhere.'

Ryan said that voters wanted Republicans with 'independence and mettle.' He also said that those voters would 'not be impressed by the sight of yes-men and flatterers flocking to Mar-a-Lago.'
Returning Australians and travellers say they will fight their bills in court as one state reveals the massive amount of money it is owed in hotel quarantine charges.

The NSW Government is chasing $58.6 million in unpaid bills from both locals and those who travelled interstate or from overseas.

But many believe they should not have to pay because the quarantine was for the benefit of public health.

Revenue NSW figures show locals the state $32.1 million in unpaid invoices, and overseas and interstate residents have $26.5 million outstanding.

From March 2020 until late 2021, anyone entering Australia had to spend two weeks in hotel quarantine at the first port of arrival. Pictured are people entering a hotel to start their quarantine

From March 2020 until late 2021, anyone entering Australia had to spend two weeks in hotel quarantine at the first port of arrival.

This was most often Sydney, as people from other states often used it as a gateway when their own state governments stopped or drastically reduced their intakes.

The NSW Government said keeping people in hotel quarantine was a 'crucial part of the public health response to Covid-19'.

'By preventing the uncontrolled entry of the virus, it helped to keep NSW residents safe during the most dangerous period of the pandemic, particularly as vaccination programs were rolled out,' it told the Sydney Morning Herald.

Initially, hotel quarantine was free, but then-premier Gladys Berejiklian introduced fees in July 2020, saying people had been given enough time to get home.

The price for the two weeks was $3,000 for individuals with discounts for children and family groups.

Hotel quarantine was dropped for vaccinated travellers in November 2021 and cut to a week for unvaccinated travellers last February, before ending entirely on April 30.

During the almost two years it was being charged for, the NSW Government issued bills totalling $322.5 million.

A woman is pictured wearing a face mask on a Sydney street during the Covid-19 pandemic

Some $263.9 million of that was paid, but debt recovery orders have been issued for 63,354 overdue invoices.

But many of those are people who believe they should not have to pay because the quarantine was set up as a public health measure.

'There could be a constitutional question as to whether it's a valid charge on Australians to re-enter the country, given they were forced to go into quarantine,' University of Canberra professor Kim Rubenstein said.

Professor Rubenstein said the High Court found Australian citizens had a right to return  but this did not necessarily apply to permanent and temporary residents and visitors.

She said if citizens fought the charges in court and won, the states could be forced to refund people who already paid.

One of those who refuses to pay is a man called Doug, who said he would fight the case in court if it comes to that.

A traveler points to his luggage as he arrives at a quarantine hotel in Sydney, Australia, on May 20, 2021

Shoppers walk in Sydney's CBD. Travellers were kept in quarantine in Sydney even if testing negative, while people outside the hotel quarantine system, when they tested positive, were able to quarantine at home

He is an American doctor with an Australian wife and step-children, who splits his time between Utah, where he works, and his family in Queensland.

'I feel like a lot of human rights were violated with how draconian their policies were and how they treated us,' Doug told the SMH.

He said 14 days in quarantine 'was just so excessive'.

Doug said he was testing negative, with no symptoms, but was kept in quarantine in Sydney, while people outside the hotel he was in, when they tested positive, were able to quarantine at home.

Just 35 debts valued at $118,100 have been rescinded due to hardship or other exceptional circumstances.
A $250,000 reward has been offered for information about a deliberately lit unit fire that killed 81-year-old retired businessman John Flamish in Sydney five years ago.

Emergency services found Mr Flamish in a car park when they were called to the fire in June 2017 at a unit block on Early Street, Parramatta. He died shortly after being taken to Westmead Hospital.

Mr Flamish had been staying with a friend who lives in the complex and was believed to have been attempting to extinguish the fire.

A $250,000 reward has been offered for information about a deliberately lit unit fire that killed 81-year-old retired businessman John Flamish (pictured) in Sydney five years ago

Detective Superintendent Danny Doherty said all available evidence was being re-examined to identify those responsible.

'The person/s involved in lighting this fire, cost a much-loved father and friend his life  and it is time that they are held responsible for their actions,' Det Supt Doherty said in a police statement early on Sunday.

Mr Flamish's daughter, Jenny Clarke, said her family would never give up in the search for the person responsible for his death.

A person spotted in CCTV near the apartment could help authorities with their investiations

'My father was a retired and respected businessman who loved his family and life in general but was tragically in the wrong place at the wrong time,' Ms Clarke said in the statement.

'Ever since dad died my family has been dealing with immeasurable pain, and I am pleading with anyone who may know about the events which led to his death to come forward.'
The Facebook page of a slain Comanchero bikie gunned down alongside his brother at a gym has been used to call for vengeance on his 'weak dog' attackers.

Omar Zahed, 39, and his brother Tarek, 41, were shot in a hail of at least 20 bullets as they left the Bodyfit Gym in Auburn, western Sydney, on May 10.

Omar died at the scene while his older brother was rushed to hospital in a serious and stable condition with ten bullet wounds to his head and body that required surgery.

Tarek is understood to be recovering but will likely be blind in one eye.

The Facebook page of Omar was updated 10 days after the attack and condemned the shooting.

Omar Zahed (left) was shot dead at an Auburn gym in a gangland hit while his brother Tarek (right) survived 10 bullet wounds

Days after the attack a warning was eerily posted to Omar's Facebook page (pictured)

'May allah swt curse every single person who had a hand in your death may allah swt curse them and bring them down in this life before the next and may allah swt expose every dog who had hand in what happen to you,' the post said.

'May allah swt bring your haq in this life before the next.

'You died a souljah you died in the cross fire of something that wasn't meant for you which is what makes them weak dogs and cowards scum of the earth may allah swt humiliate them in this life before the next.'

The post seems to confirm that those close to the two brothers believe Omar was collateral damage in the shooting, despite rumours both men were targets.

Tarek, a close associate of Comanchero kingpin Mark Buddle who is understood to be overseas, was tipped to take over the reigns as national president of the OMCG.

Tarek Zahed was understood to have been next in line to take over the reigns as national president of the Comanchero OMCG (pictured)

Omar Zahed also had links to the Comancheros and had done stints in jail (pictured)

He had also been previously warned by police that there was a contract placed on him by rival gangs worth millions, while Omar also had significant links to the Comancheros.

The attack was one of the latest in a lengthy string of gangland shootings to rock Sydney over the previous 18 months.

NSW Police established Strike Force Erebus to coordinate intelligence and policing efforts to combat the violence in the wake of this shooting and that of Rami Iskander, 23, in the same week at nearby Belmore.

Forensic police outside the Auburn gym in Sydney's southwest after the Zahed brothers were shot in the lobby (pictured)
Legal experts questioned the way the identity of juvenile accused in criminal cases was being flashed across some sections of the media and on social media. (Representational image)

HYDERABAD: A group of legal experts questioned the way the identity of juvenile accused in criminal cases was being flashed across some sections of the media and on social media, and made it clear that identifying the minors directly or indirectly violated the Juvenile Justice Act.

They said that the Juvenile Justice Act, 2000, which pertains to the issue of children in conflict with law, besides talking about children in need of care and protection, was amended twice in 2006 and 2011, replacing the Indian juvenile justice delinquency law, Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Child) Act 2015. On closer inspection of its provisions, juvenile offenders between 16-18 years of age who may be tried as an adult for offences which are considered to be grave and heinous. Psychologists and sociologists should decide on the matter. The Act also prohibits the media from disclosing the identity of children in conflict with the law, they opined.

Senior advocate L. Ravichander said that even if they were accused, the identity should not be disclosed. Revealing their identity would be a violation of the Juvenile Justice Act. Through any means (identification of parents) they should not be identified, which is wrong, he added.

Another advocate, B. V. Seshagiri, explained that the Jubilee Hills minors gang rape case, from the offences as per the Indian Penal Code, also fell within the ambit and scope of three laws: Criminal law (Amendment Act), 2013, Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Child) Act, 2015 and Protection of Children against Sexual Offences Act, 2012 (POCSO).

Children under the age of 18 years have different mental capabilities due to the development of the brain in different stages. The severity of the crime committed by a child may differ, indicating different levels of maturity. In the case of Roper v. Simmons, the Supreme Court said all juveniles should be given individual consideration varying from case to case while being evaluated based on their maturity level, education, life experiences, background history, and feelings of moral responsibility, he added.
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The mayor of Philadelphia has blasted the 'horrendous, brazen and despicable act of gun violence' plaguing the nation after an overnight mass shooting left three dead and at least 11 injured in his city.

Jim Kenney this morning called for officials to 'address the availability and ease of access to firearms' in the US as a manhunt was underway for the gunmen involved in Saturday's vile attack.

Cops said at least 14 people were struck when multiple shooters opened fire into a large crowd of revelers on the city's popular South Street just before midnight.

Two men, one aged 22, and a 25-year-old woman were killed in the barrage of gunfire before the suspects fled the scene.

One of them was shot by a police officer three times. Another suspected gunman was receiving treatment at a nearby hospital after being shot in the forearm.

No arrests have been made but that two weapons, including one featuring an extended magazine, were recovered at the scene, Police Inspector D. F. Pace confirmed.

Saturday's attack is the latest in a string of vicious shootings that have ripped across the US in recent weeks, including one at a supermarket in Buffalo, a hospital in Tulsa and at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas.

Surveillance video from the shooting shows people on a crowded street running in panic after gun shots were fired

Police said at least 14 people were struck when the shooting broke out on the city's popular South Street just before midnight. Two men, one aged 22, and a 25-year-old woman were killed in the barrage of gunfire. Police tape is seen blocking off the crime scene Sunday morning

One of the shooters was last seen fleeing the scene after a cop shot the suspect three times. It is unclear if the gunman was struck. Another suspected gunman was among the injured who were transported to Pennsylvania Hospital. No arrests have been made

Philadelphia Police officers and detectives look over evidence at the scene of a shooting in Philadelphia

A shop in the downtown area is riddled with bullet holes after multiple gunmen opened fire on a crowd of revelers

Mayor Kenney described Saturday's shooting as 'horrendous, despicable and senseless' and argued Americans 'cannot accept continued violence as a way of life in our country.'

'The events that transpired last evening on South Street are beyond devastating,' he said in a statement. 'I know this shooting has shaken many people in our community.'

'Our cityand countryhave experienced a steep rise in gun violence over the past few years. We've spent these years grappling with this rising epidemic and doing everything in our power not only to stop it but to try to understand why the violence continuesit's senseless, needless, and deeply troubling.'

'We cannot accept continued violence as a way of life in our country,' he added.

Kenney, like many of his fellow Democrats, called for stricter gun laws and stronger measures to curb gun violence.

'Until we address the availability and ease of access to firearms, we will always be fighting an uphill battle. As Mayor, I will continue to fight to protect our communities and urge others to advocate for stronger laws that keep guns out of the hands of violent individuals,' the mayor said.

'The surge in gun violence that we've seen across the nationand here in Philadelphiamakes me not just heartbroken, but angry. Our administration, in partnership with all of our local and federal law enforcement agencies, continues to work relentlessly to reduce violence and create safer communities.'

A huge manhunt is underway after multiple shooters opened fire into a large crowd of revelers in downtown Philadelphia Saturday night, leaving three dead and more than a dozen injured

Pedestrians walk past bullet holes in the window of a store front on South Street in Philadelphia after a mass shooting left three dead and multiple people injured

A bullet casing is seen at the crime scene after at least three people were killed and 11 injured in the shooting in the busy South Street area of Philadelphia

Blood is seen on the sidewalk at the scene of a fatal overnight shooting on South Street in Philadelphia

A man walks past a crime scene after a deadly mass shooting on South Street in Philadelphia

Philadelphia police are speaking with a woman near the scene of a fatal overnight shooting in downtown

A note and flowers honoring the victims of a mass shooting in South Philadelphia are taped to a traffic light post at the corner of South and Third Streets

Kenney's remarks came just hours after Philadelphia police heard a flurry of gunshots ring out in the 200 block of South Street, between 2nd and 3rd streets.

When they got to the scene, shortly before midnight, officers saw multiple shooters firing into a large crowd.

Mayor Jim Kenney (pictured in Nov. 2020) described Saturday's shooting as 'horrendous, despicable and senseless' and argued Americans 'cannot accept continued violence as a way of life in our country'

An officer fired his gun at one of the shooters, Pace said during a news conference, however it is unclear if the suspect was hit.

'He was within 10 to 15 yards of the shooter, watching this person shoot into the crowd when the officer engaged with that shooter,' Pace told reporters.

'As a result of that brave officer, that individual - again, we're uncertain whether he was struck or not - but the officer was able to get that individual to drop his gun and flee.'

Seven victims were taken to nearby Thomas Jefferson University Hospital with injuries from the shooting, a hospital spokesperson told The Philadelphia Inquirer.

One was reported dead on arrival and four others were in stable condition.

Five people were taken to Pennsylvania Hospital, including one of the suspect. The accused gunman had been shot in the arm.

Three other victims were taken to Penn Presbyterian Medical Center. Their conditions are unknown.

Not all of those who were injured were shot. One of those people being treated in a local hospital is considered a suspect in the shooting.

There could be additional victims not yet accounted for, such as those who were privately taken to the hospital.

Police officers inspect the crime scene Sunday after at least three people were killed and 11 injured in the shooting

Crimes scene tape is placed in the South Street area of Philadelphia after a mass shooting

Philadelphia Police investigators work the scene of a fatal overnight shooting on South Street in Philadelphia on Sunday

Police respond to the 200 block of South Street late Saturday night after a barrage of gunshots rang out

A storefront window with bullet holes is pictured Sunday at the scene of a fatal overnight shooting on South Street in Philadelphia

Bullet holes on a window are seen after at least three people were killed and 11 injured in the shooting

As of 8am Sunday morning, the area of 3rd and South Streets was still blocked off as officers conducted their investigation. Police are asking business owners to review video from surveillance cameras.

In a tweet, Inquirer reporter Max Marin called the area 'a popular weekend strip.' Marin later tweeted evidence of 'pandemonium stretching several blocks', pointing to broken car windows and knocked over trash cans.

'There were hundreds of individuals just enjoying South Street, as they do every weekend, when this shooting broke out,' Pace told reporters.

He said police were already patrolling the area, which is known for its entertainment venues and night life with multiple bars, restaurants and businesses, when the shooters opened fire.

'I want to emphasize that South Street is manned by numerous police officers,' Pace said. 'This is standard deployment for Friday and Saturday night - weekends - and especially during the summer months.'

As of 8am Sunday morning, the area of 3rd and South Streets was still blocked off as officers conducted their investigation

Officers hold a blood stained jacket collected found at the scene of the fatal shooting in downtown Philadelphia

A downtown Philadelphia street is blocked off early Sunday morning after multiple gunmen opened fire on a large crowd in the 200 block of South Street later Saturday night

A Philadelphia police investigators holds a bloodied jacket recovered from the scene of Saturday's mass shooting

A Philadelphia Fireman washes blood off the sidewalk Sunday morning after a mass shooting that killed at least 3 people

One eye witness said in a tweet that he saw 'Lots of young kids out doing dumb stuff, in the street & jumping on cars & then a guy in a hoodie pulled a gun out, 11 casings & 2 live rounds on the ground.'

A witness to the shooting, Joe Smith, told the Inquirer: 'Once it started I didn't think it was going to stop. here was guttural screaming. I just heard screams.' Smith told the newspaper that when he heard the gunshots, his mind went to the recent mass shootings in Buffalo and Uvalde.

Smith had been at the Theater of the Living Arts venue in the neighborhood where the band Dying Fetus had been performing.

'There was guttural screaming. I just heard screams,' he recalled, adding howe after he heard the shots, he and other revelers ran down South Street, towards 4th and Bainbridge Streets, to seek safety.

Another witness, Eric Walsh, said he was closing up the outdoor seating area at O'Neals bar on Third Street when he heard shots ring out.

Walsh ushered two customers inside the bar after watching a woman collapse to ground on the corner of Third and South Streets, which he says was less than a quarter-mile away.

'People were coming off the street with blood splatters on white sneakers and skinned knees and skinned elbows,' Walsh told the newspaper. 'We literally just were balling up napkins and wetting them and handing them to people... it was chaos.'

South Street area resident Maureen Long told NBC 10 she is 'furious' about the string of mass shootings plaguing the U.S.

'I am furious, not just for my neighborhood, for the whole country. If I hear one more time 'thoughts and prayers'  bull****,' she stated.

Blood stains the sidewalks in downtown Philadelphia after Saturday's mass shooting

A police investigators rolls out crime scene tape to block off the area near the 200 block of South Street

Video in the aftermath of the shooting showed a large number of police vehicles at the scene

In a tweet, Inquirer reporter Max Marin called the area 'a popular weekend strip'

One of those people being treated in a local hospital is considered a suspect in the shooting

The large crowd is seen outside popular South Street bars and restaurants late Saturday night

Elsewhere in the city, Mary J. Blige headlined the Roots Picnic concert at Philadelphia's Fairmount Park.

Revelers were also enjoying the 50th anniversary of Philadelphia's Pride celebrations throughout the city.

There were nine separate shootings in the city between Friday night and Saturday. No arrests have been made in any of those incidents.

The South Street area is the same location were one person was shot after a female suspect fired multiple shots around 12.30am. on Tuesday. No arrests were made in that shooting that wounded one male in the shoulder.

He was sent to Penn Presbyterian Medical Center in stable condition, reported ABC Philadelphia.

Prior to tonight's shootings, there have been 743 nonfatal and 188 fatal shootings in Philadelphia in 2022.

On the morning of the shooting, a pregnant woman was fatally shot in the head in the city's Port Richard neighborhood.

The woman was 34 weeks pregnant, staff at Temple University Hospital were able to safely deliver the baby, reports The Philadelphia Inquirer.

Officers gather near the area of the shooting late Saturday night

Bullet holes are pictured in a storefront window and blood left stained on the street after Saturday's shooting

A Philadelphia firefighter washes blood off the sidewalk at the scene of a fatal overnight shooting on South Street

The Philadelphia police inspector said police were already patrolling the area, which is known for its entertainment venues and night life with multiple bars, restaurants and businesses, when the shooters opened fire

The popular downtown area where shots rang out Saturday night is deserted Sunday morning as authorities investigate the mass shooting

Saturday's incident in downtown Philadelphia followed recent shootings at a grocery story in Buffalo, New York, an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, and a medical building in Tulsa, Oklahoma, that left dozens dead.

There have been at least 239 mass shootings in the United States so far this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive, a nonprofit research group. It defines a mass shooting as one in which at least four people are shot, excluding the shooter.

Gun safety advocates are pushing the U.S. government to take stronger measures to curb gun violence.

U.S. President Joe Biden on Thursday called on Congress to ban assault weapons, expand background checks and implement other gun control measures to address the string of mass shootings.

Chris Murphy, the lead Democratic U.S. senator working on bipartisan gun safety talks, said on Sunday he thinks a package including investments in mental health and school safety and some changes to gun laws can pass Congress.

A broad majority of American voters, both Republicans and Democrats, favor stronger gun control laws, but Republicans in Congress and some moderate Democrats have blocked such legislation for years.

Police in Philadelphia confirmed that multiple people were shot in the area of South Street between 3rd and 4th Streets

A witness to the shooting, Joe Smith, told the Inquirer: 'Once it started I didn't think it was going to stop. here was guttural screaming. I just heard screams.' Smith told the newspaper that when he heard the gunshots, his mind went to the recent mass shootings in Buffalo and Uvalde

The downtown streets are riddled Sunday morning with garbage, shelling casings and other evidence after Saturday night's mass shooting
Opposition leader Peter Dutton has appointed 10 women to his shadow ministry but Marise Payne was not included.

Michaelia Cash was announced as the new shadow employment minister, Karen Andrews for home affairs and Anne Ruston for health and aged care.

Sussan Ley will be shadow minister for skills, training, industry and women, Alan Tudge for education and Barnaby Joyce for veteran affairs.

'I'm proud of the fact that Sussan Ley, as my deputy, will not only be the deputy leader, but the Shadow Minister for industry for skills and training and Shadow Minister for women,' Mr Dutton said on Sunday.

'She has a significant workload, but Sussan has a great capacity and is a very significant part of not only our response in urban areas, but in regional areas as well. I'm really pleased that we have, in our covenant of 24, 10 women'.

Opposition leader Peter Dutton has appointed 10 women to his shadow ministry but did not include Marise Payne

Marise Payne was not included in the list of new shadow cabinet ministers as Peter Dutton named the new members on Sunday

Angus Taylor will be shadow treasurer, Jane Hume the new finance minister and Sarah Henderson communications minister.

Julian Leeser will be the shadow attorney general and in charge of Indigenous affairs while Andrew Hastie is now the shadow minister for defence.

'What you're seeing in this lineup is some fresh faces, we have incredible depth of talent,' Mr Dutton said.

'Not just on the front bench, but on the back once as well. I'm cognisant of trying to bring people through for an opportunity, and you will see that we have some very impressive appointments.'

Mr Dutton said Ms Payne had asked not to be part of the cabinet but was persuaded to take the role of shadow cabinet secretary.

She appears to have taken on a smaller role after losing the Solomon Islands while acting as foreign affairs minister to ex-prime minister Scott Morrison.

The Solomon Islands signed a security pact with China in mid-April raising fears the Chinese military will eventually establish a base as close as 1,600km from Australia's east coast.

The deal sparked widespread criticism, with Labor Senator Penny Wong, who is the new Minister for Foreign Affairs, at the time branding the agreement 'the worst blunder in the Pacific' since the end of world war two'.

Mr Dutton announced his shadow ministry on Sunday alongside the new leader of his Nationals coalition partner David Littleproud.

Michaelia Cash (pictured) has been announced as the new shadow employment minister, Karen Andrews for home affairs and Anne Ruston for health and aged care

Sussan Ley (pictured) will be shadow minister for skills, training, industry and women, Alan Tudge for education and Barnaby Joyce for veteran affairs

Mr Dutton was announced as Liberals leader last week, unopposed in his party room after former prime minister Scott Morrison stepped aside following the coalition's defeat at the May 21 federal election.

Mr Littleproud was voted Nationals leader, defeating Barnaby Joyce at its partyroom meeting, also last week.

After losing leadership, Mr Joyce, the former Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, has been demoted to veteran's affairs.

Alan Tudge has also reprised his role as education minister after resigning from federal cabinet in March.

The resignation came after Mr Tudge stepped aside as a minister in December last year while an investigation was conducted into abuse allegations - which he has vehemently denied.

Mr Tudge's former media advisor Rachelle Miller alleged he had been emotionally and in one instance, physically abusive towards her during the pair's consensual affair.

At the time of his resignation, Mr Tudge told Mr Morrison he would not be seeking to return to the front bench 'in the interests of his family and his own wellbeing and in order to focus on his re-election as the member for Aston'.

However, three weeks ago Mr Morrison announced Mr Tudge would return after the federal election.

Alan Tudge is pictured with Rachelle Miller at the Parliament winter ball during their affair

Speaking on Sunday, Mr Dutton said he believes he has 'incredible talent' both from the outgoing government frontbench but also people who have been on the backbench for a while.

'I want to give some of them the opportunity ... so you will see some new faces,' the former defence minister told Sky News' Sunday Agenda program.

'It's important for us to have as many women as possible on the frontbench, that will be the feature of the frontbench we will announce later today.'

Mr Littleproud declined what to say what was in the agreement between the Liberal and Nationals parties that formed the coalition.

'It's all about policies and you'll see those policies that we enact,' he told ABC's Insiders program.

'You don't ask to get underneath the closed doors of the left or the right of the Labor Party, I don't think you need to be in the policy discussions that the Liberal Party and the National Party has.'
Anthony Albanese remains confident of maintaining positive relationships with Indonesia, ahead of his three-day trip to the country.

The prime minister will fly out for Jakarta on Sunday, where he will hold key talks with President Joko Widodo.

Mr Albanese said while he had already spoken with President Widodo since becoming prime minister, he was looking forward to continuing bilateral talks with Indonesia.

'My government is determined to have better relations across the Indo-Pacific region,' he told reporters in Perth on Sunday morning.

Anthony Albanese will travel to Indonesia to speak with President Joko Widodo on Sunday - with China's growing interest in the Pacific to be a topic of conversation

'My discussions with President Widodo have been very cordial and positive ... we've met, of course, in the past, I look forward to the next couple of days.'

Following the talks in Jakarta, Mr Albanese will also visit the city of Makassar in the country's east.

He said it was critical that relations with Indonesia extended to all of the country.

'It's important that we recognise that Indonesia isn't just Jakarta and Bali, it is a vast archipelago,' Mr Albanese said.

'It is an important nation to our north, the largest Muslim country on the planet.'

On the agenda will be trade, climate change and energy, as well as regional and global interests.

Discussions are also set to take place on the Indonesia-Australia comprehensive economic partnership agreement, along with Australia's proposed $200 million climate and infrastructure fund.

The visit to Indonesia will continue an Australian diplomatic tradition of newly elected prime ministers making the country one of their first ports of call.

Mr Albanese said while he had already spoken with President Widodo since becoming prime minister, he was looking forward to continuing bilateral talks with Indonesia

Mr Albanese also admitted he is yet to have a one-on-one discussion with East Timor President Jose Ramos-Horta after the country signed agreements with China.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has been on a Pacific blitz, attempting to sign countries throughout the region to a number of deals, namely security contracts, which could see Communist military bases on Australia's doorstep.

While East Timor rejected their security offer, it did agree to media partnerships and economical deals - with the Australian PM keen to speak with his counterpart.

'We've been reaching out, and so have they,' the prime minister told reporters.

'We haven't, as yet, been able to have a one-on-one discussion. But Australia has good relations with Timor-Leste. I expect that to continue into the future.

'[East Timor president Jose Ramos-Horta] is a friend of mine over a long period of time. I've known Mr Ramos-Horta in his capacity when he was living in Petersham in my electorate during a different time.

'So, I'm confident that we can have good relations going forward.'

China have been on a Pacific blitz, attempting to sign a number of security deals with countries in a clear attempt to destabilise the region

While Mr Albanese's first overseas trip as prime minister was to Tokyo for the Quad Leaders' Summit, he said repeatedly during the election campaign Indonesia would be a priority for his government.

As well as meeting President Widodo, Mr Albanese will hold talks with ASEAN Secretary-General Dato Lim Jock Hoi.

'Those discussions reflect as a priority that we have on southeast Asia,' Mr Albanese said.

The prime minister will travel alongside Foreign Minister Penny Wong, Trade Minister Don Farrell, Industry Minister Ed Husic, as well as Darwin MP Luke Gosling.

A high-level delegation of Australian business leaders will also travel to Indonesia.

The visit comes amid growing tensions in the Indo-Pacific, with China's foreign minister recently saying Australia viewed China as a rival not a partner.

While Mr Albanese's first overseas trip as prime minister was to Tokyo, he said repeatedly during the election campaign Indonesia would be a priority for his government

Mr Albanese said there was strategic competition in the region.

'What we need to do is to make sure that we have competition, recognise that it's there without catastrophe,' he said.

'I certainly seek peaceful relations with all of our neighbours, recognising the challenges though, which there are.'

The prime minister will visit Indonesia again later this year for the G20 summit in Bali.

However, the summit may be overshadowed by the appearance of Russian President Vladimir Putin, following the country's invasion of Ukraine.

Mr Albanese said the presidency of the G20 was important for Indonesia.

'People who respect human rights would feel uncomfortable with sitting around the table with Vladimir Putin,' he said.
A casually-dressed Anthony Albanese has ventured into the Perth sunshine to speak with his Western Australian team and fans after the state delivered him majority government, and contributed significantly to Labor winning the election.

The Prime Minister held a press conference at Kings Park on Sunday morning and re-announced his commitment to visit Western Australia 10 times a year.

Mr Albanese went for a smart-casual look for the special occasion, wearing a long-sleeve navy blue button-up, blazer and beige jeans.

He spent the day with West Australian Labor MPs who secured seats in the party's stunning election win, as he was followed by fervent supporters.

A casually-dressed Anthony Albanese (centre) has ventured into the Perth sunshine to speak with his Western Australian team and fans after the state delivered him majority government

The PM held a press conference on Sunday morning and re-announced his commitment to visit Western Australia 10 times a year and spend time in the state

He spent the day with West Australian Labor MPs who secured seats in the party's stunning election win, as he was followed by fervent supporters

The Prime Minister addressed the media at Kings Park in Perth, with the WA Labor team flanking him

On Saturday night, Mr Albanese had a private dinner with Premier Mark McGowan and WA Education Minister Sue Ellery where they spoke on issues affecting the state.

The Prime Minister elaborated on the discussion at the press conference on Sunday as he was flanked by his West Australian team.

'It is great to be here in Western Australia, on the Western Australia Day long weekend,' he said. 'Last night I was able to catch up with Premier Mark McGowan. A good friend of mine for a long period of time, and we had a very enjoyable dinner.'

'We discussed issues of concern to Western Australia in the lead up to the meeting that I'll hold at the end of next week with the National Cabinet which will meet in Canberra.'

He expressed his promise to visit Western Australia 10 times a year - a commitment that he'd pledged earlier in the year.

'This is my fifth visit to Western Australia this year, which isn't bad given that I wasn't able to come for half of this year.'

'But I made a commitment as leader of the Labor Party that I would come to Western Australia 10 times a year and I repeat that commitment as Prime Minister,' he continued.

'That I will endeavour to be a regular visitor here, not just somebody who drops in when there's an election campaign, but spends time here because I want to be the Prime Minister for the entire country.'

Mr Albanese expressed his promise to visit Western Australia 10 times a year - a commitment that he'd pledged earlier in the year

The Prime Minister mentioned each of the federal Labor MPs who won seats in WA

Mr Albanese turned his attention to voters who chose an Albanese government, explaining that Australians supporting him have elected for 'change'

Mr Albanese then turned his attention to voters who chose an Albanese government, explaining that Australians supporting him have elected for 'change'.

'They argued the case for change and Australians voted for change at the election on May 21 and change is what they're getting.'

'There is a new government in town in Canberra - a new government governing for all Australians, whether they voted Labor this time or whether we'll seek to get their vote next time around. '

'I am determined to govern for all Australians and to make sure that we end the conflict, that we lower the temperature whereby everything the former government did - and I've seen some of it through the briefings I've had already as prime minister - everything was always about the politics.

'I want it to be about the national interest, not short-term political interest.'

The Prime Minister also mentioned each of the federal Labor MPs standing behind him who won seats in WA before he took questions from the media.

Following the conference, Mr Albanese and the WA Labor team attended a celebratory barbecue at Sir James Mitchell Park in South Perth to commemorate the party's victory and thank volunteers for their efforts.

Several WA Labor MPs spoke with Mr Albanese at the event as he mingled with the crowd.

Mr Albanese and the WA Labor team attended a celebratory barbecue at Sir James Mitchell Park in South Perth to thank volunteers for their efforts

The Prime Minister mingled with Labor supporters and volunteers after the conference

Western Australia delivered Anthony Albanese a majority government in a humiliating bloodbath for former PM Scott Morrison.

Massive double-digit swings across several key seats held by the Liberal Party pushed Labor over the 76-seat threshold to form government.

The seats of Hasluck, Swan, Tangley, and Pearce all flipped to Labor.

Across Western Australia there was a 10.2 per cent to Labor on a two party preferred basis, compared with 2.9 per cent across the country.

WA was always expected to swing towards Labor but the size of the projected victories are beyond even the most optimistic predictions.

Western Australia delivered Anthony Albanese (right) a majority government in a humiliating bloodbath for Scott Morrison - partly due to WA Premier Mark McGowan (left)

Mr Morrison's popularity nosedived in the staunchly independent state during the pandemic as Labor Premier Mark McGowan's skyrocketed

Mr Morrison's popularity nosedived in the staunchly independent state during the pandemic as Labor Premier Mark McGowan's skyrocketed.

The prime minister and Mr McGowan regularly bickered over WA's hard border with the eastern states for most of the two-years of the pandemic.

For months at a time the border was closed to every other state and territory in Australia and Mr Morrison's protests only hardened their resolve.

The PM even called WA locals 'cave people' for hiding behind the border wall in pursuit of a 'zero-Covid' policy.

Perhaps the most damaging factor for Mr Morrison was his support for billionaire mining magnate Clive Palmer's court challenge to the WA hard border.

Mr Morrison was relentlessly pilloried in WA media, by Mr McGowan, and among locals until he dropped his support.

Another big factor was Mr McGowan's phenomenal personal popularity in his home state, at one time at the height of the hard border era holding a 90-plus per cent approval rating

The PM made a desperate U-turn in recent months, retrospectively supporting the hard border and praising his former enemy Mr McGowan.

But it came too late with Mr Albanese seizing on the opportunity to bury his rival by launching his campaign in Perth.

Another big factor was Mr McGowan's phenomenal personal popularity in his home state, at one time at the height of the hard border era holding a 90-plus per cent approval rating.

Such positive sentiment translated over into federal success for Labor with the premier's fans following his endorsement of Mr Albanese.
Union leaders have voiced fresh angst at Boris Johnson's plan to slash 91,000 civil service jobs as they warned the planned cuts would leave Whitehall unable to cope with its post-Brexit workload.

The Prime Minister recently ordered ministers and senior officials to reduce the civil service to the size it was in 2016.

In the aftermath of the EU referendum, the number of civil service jobs ballooned significantly due to both Brexit and the Covid pandemic.

Mr Johnson last week wrote to all civil servants to apologise for the 'concern and uncertainty' being caused by the proposed job cuts.

But he defended his plans to slim down Whitehall over the next three years by insisting there was no longer a need for the State to have the same 'colossal presence' in people's lives.

The PM is now facing fresh opposition from union leaders who are warning Mr Johnson's plans will leave the civil service smaller - relative to the size of the UK population - than at any time in recent history.

In the aftermath of the EU referendum, the number of civil service jobs ballooned significantly due to both Brexit and the Covid pandemic

Boris Johnson recently ordered ministers and senior officials to reduce the civil service to the size it was in 2016

The TUC, led by Frances O'Grady, warned the PM's plans would see the number of civil servants drop to a new low of 56 per 10,000 UK citizens by 2025

Mark Serwotka, general secretary of the Public and Commercial Services Union, vowed to 'fight for every job in the civil service'

Figures from the TUC, as reported by the Observer, show that for every 10,000 UK citizens, the number of civil servants fell from 76 in 2010, when the Tories first came to power, to 59 in 2016.

By last year, that had risen to 70 for every 10,000 UK citizens as civil service staff numbers rose due to Brexit and Covid.

The TUC warned that, under the PM's plans to slash 91,000 jobs, the number of civil servants would drop to a new low of 56 per 10,000 by 2025.

There are currently 485,000 civil servants in the UK.

In June 2016, when the EU referendum took place, there were 384,000 civil servants - the smallest number since the Second World War.

Union leaders warned the planned cuts would leave Whitehall unable to deal with its new post-Brexit role in areas such as immigration, trade and farming.

Steven Littlewood, assistant general secretary FDA union, told the newspaper: 'Given the new responsibilities the government has post-Brexit for areas like borders, customs and agriculture, it is impossible to see how it can provide the services it currently is with the proposed job losses.

'The government needs to be honest about what services it would cut if it reduces numbers.'

Mark Serwotka, general secretary of the Public and Commercial Services Union, said: 'Making cuts will only make things worse, make waiting lists longer for those seeking passports and driving licences and make telephone queues longer for those with tax enquiries.

'We shall fight for every job in the civil service. Not just on behalf of our members but on behalf of every member of the public who relies on the services they provide.'

TUC boss Frances OGrady said: 'There will be harm to families and businesses that depend on services.

'The Conservatives said we would build back better. Now its cut back harder.'

In the first sign of Government action to reduce staff numbers, it recently emerged that the civil service fast stream graduate recruitment programme will be paused for at least a year.

More than 1,000 civil service job offers were made as part of the scheme in 2021.
At least 49 people have died after being caught up in a huge chemical explosion triggered by a fire at a shipping container depot in Bangladesh last night.

Several hundred rescuers were battling the blaze that broke out late Saturday in Sitakunda, about 25 miles from Chittagong, when a number of containers holding chemicals exploded, the fire brigade told reporters.

The incredible blast killed scores of people and gave way to an even larger fire, which was still raging in the early hours of Sunday morning.

The death toll is expected to rise as eyewitness testimonies suggested they had seen several uncovered bodies at the site, while more than 300 people sustained injuries, some of them serious.

The region's chief doctor Elias Chowdhury confirmed the figures earlier this morning and warned there were many people, including journalists on site covering the fire, still unaccounted for.

'The death toll will rise as the rescue work has not been completed yet,' he said.

The container depot held hydrogen peroxide, fire service chief Brigadier General Main Uddin told reporters.

'We still could not control the fire because of the existence of this chemical,' he said, before adding at least 15 firefighters were being treated for burns.

Hydrogen peroxide is not a combustible chemical, but it can dramatically enhance the combustion of other substances, exacerbating the severity of existing fires.

Many of the 4,000 containers caught up in the explosion contained garments destined for Western retailers, and representative of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) said that about $110 million worth of products were destroyed in the fire.

'It is a huge loss for the industry,' he said.

Several hundred rescuers were battling the blaze that broke out late Saturday in Sitakunda, about 25 miles from Chittagong, when a number of containers holding chemicals exploded, the fire brigade told reporters

Firefighters try to contain the blaze at a container facility in Sitakunda, Bangladesh June 4,2022 in this screen grab obtained from a video on social media

The incredible blast killed almost three dozen people and gave way to an even larger fire, which was still raging in the early hours of Sunday morning

Rescue workers and civilians carry an injured victim to a hospital in Chittagong following the blast

At least nine firefighters were killed as they tried to tackle the blaze. Fire crews were still battling to extinguish the fire early this morning hours after the original blaze broke out

The remains of chemical storage tanks can be seen littering the floor at the site of the explosion

Firefighters carry the dead body of a victim from the site after a fire broke out at a container storage facility in Sitakunda

One rescue volunteer at the BM Inland Container Depot, a Dutch-Bangladesh joint venture, said: 'There are still some bodies inside the fire-affected places. I saw eight or 10 bodies,' suggesting the death toll is highly likely to increase considerably.

'Never in our fire department history have we lost so many firefighters in a single incident,' said Bharat Chandra, a former senior firefighter.

At least nine of the dead are firefighters, with more than 40 firefighters and 10 police officers among the injured, according to Chittagong regional police chief Anwar Hossain.

'The number of fatalities is expected to rise as some of the injured are in critical condition,' Hossain said.

Eyewitnesses said that the blast engulfed people who had been battling the fire.

'I was standing inside the depot. The explosion just threw me 10 metres from where I was standing. My hands and legs are burnt,' lorry driver Tofael Ahmed said.

The explosion was so loud that it shook residential buildings several kilometres from the depot, said Mohammad Ali, 60, who has a nearby grocery store.

'A cylinder flew around half a kilometre from the fire spot to our small pond when the explosion occurred,' he said.

'The explosion sent fireballs in the sky. Fireballs were falling like rain. We were so afraid we immediately left our home to find refuge... We thought the fire would spread to our locality as it is very densely populated,' he said.

The explosions shattered the windows of nearby buildings and were felt as far as two-and-a-half miles away, officials and local media reports said.

Chowdhury said the injured had been rushed to different hospitals in the region as doctors were brought back from holiday to help.

Requests for blood donations for the injured flooded social media.

Emergency crews were still working to put out the fire Sunday morning and military clinics were helping to treat the injured.

Mominur Rahman, chief administrator of Chittagong district, said the government has deployed some 200 army troops to the depot to prevent chemicals flowing into the sea.

He said while the fire was largely under control, there were 'still several pockets of fire'.

'Firefighters are trying to control these pockets of fires. The fire has spread to at least seven acres of land inside the depot,' he said.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina expressed her shock at the accident and ordered adequate arrangements for the medical treatment of the injured.

Firefighters walk amid the debris caused by the chemical explosion at a storage facility around 25 miles from the Bangladeshi port of Chittagong

Mominur Rahman, chief administrator of Chittagong district, said the government has deployed some 200 army troops to the depot to prevent chemicals flowing into the sea

Rescuers carry the dead body of a victim from the site

There are still several people unaccounted for according to the region's chief doctor

Rahman said a probe has been ordered.

He added that the depot contained millions of dollars of garments waiting to be exported to Western retailers, for whom Bangladesh is a key supplier.

The director of the container depot, Mujibur Rahman, said the fire's cause was still unknown. He added the facility employs about 600 people.

Around 90 percent of Bangladesh's roughly $100 billion dollars in trade - including clothes for H&M, Walmart and others - passes through Chittagong port.

Exports have been booming since late last year as the global economy recovered from the pandemic. In the first five months of the year, shipments were up more than 40 percent.

But fires are common in Bangladesh due to lax enforcement of safety rules.

In July 2021, 54 people died when a blaze ripped through a massive food-processing factory outside the capital Dhaka.

In February 2020, 70 people were killed when another fire engulfed several Dhaka apartment blocks.

Global brands, which employ tens of thousands of low-paid workers in Bangladesh, have come under pressure to improve factory conditions in recent years as a result.

In the country's massive garment industry, which employs about four million people, safety conditions have improved significantly after massive reforms but experts say accidents could still occur if other sectors do not make similar changes.
A primary school teacher and mother-of-two died and both her sons were injured when their car plunged from a quay into a river on Friday night.

Gillian Daly, 44, from Douglas, Co Cork, Ireland, died when she accidentally drove off Kennedy Quay in Cork city at 8.45pm on June 3.

Her two sons, aged ten and 12, escaped from the car and were treated for non-life-threatening injuries including shock at Cork University Hospital and have since been discharged.

Gardai are treating the crash as a tragic accident. Mrs Daly's body was recovered from the River Lee by divers from the Irish Naval Service at around 12.30am on Saturday.

The 44-year-old primary school teacher's family said they were 'heartbroken' after the accident.

Her uncle Martin Patrick O'Sullivan wrote on Facebook: 'Heartbroken again with the loss of my sister Helen's daughter Gillian on her death. RIP.'

Others also paid tribute. Michelle Harrington Guest said: 'So, so sorry to hear of Gillian's passing  she taught my children in primary school and was so nice and kind. May she rest in peace.'

Gillian Daly, 44, from Douglas, Co Cork, Ireland, died when she accidentally drove off Kennedy Quay in Cork city at 8.45pm on June 3

Mrs Daly's two children, aged ten and 12, escaped from the car and were treated for non-life-threatening injuries including shock at Cork University Hospital and have since been discharged. Pictured: The scene of the accident

The car was lifted from the river with a crane after it sank. Gardai are treating the crash as a tragic accident

The car was lifted from the river with a crane after it sank. People on the quay told CorkBeo the car was driving erratically before it went into the water.

A Garda spokesman said: 'Gardai are investigating all the circumstances of an incident where a vehicle entered the River Lee at Kennedy Quay, Cork City, at approximately 8.45pm on June 3.

'Two children were recovered from the water and were taken to Cork University Hospital to receive treatment for non-life threatening injuries.

'Following the arrival of a dive team with the Irish Naval Service, the body of a woman was later removed from the water.

'The woman's body was removed to Cork University Hospital where a post-mortem will take place.

'The results of which will determine the course of the investigation.'

The car tumbled off the edge of the quay and into the river below where the woman was unable to free herself

Cork City Missing Persons Search and Recovery: 'We would like to pass on our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.'

Cork City Missing Persons Search and Recovery said they would like to offer their sincerest condolences.

The group said: 'Volunteers were tasked late yesterday evening by Gardai to assist in a multi-agency search and recovery operation in the Kennedy Quay area where it was reported that a vehicle had entered the water.

'We immediately raced to the scene to assist the Gardai, fire service and Crosshaven coast guard and we deployed our boat, our vehicles and sonar team to the scene.

'We pinpointed the exact location of the vehicle on the riverbed and the naval dive unit recovered a person from the vehicle and they also recovered the vehicle.

'We would like to pass on our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.'
One of Boris Johnson's Cabinet allies today poured cold water on feverish speculation that the Prime Minister will face a crunch vote on his political future in a matter of days.

Grant Shapps dismissed suggestions that Mr Johnson will face a confidence vote among Tory MPs when they return to Westminster from tomorrow.

The Transport Secretary insisted - even if the PM were to face a vote on his leadership among Conservative MPs - he would win.

And he also shrugged off the impact of Mr Johnson being booed by Jubilee crowds, claiming the incident was being 'over-interpreted'.

A steady stream of Tory MPs have submitted letters of no confidence in the PM following the publication of Sue Gray's Partygate report last month.

The senior civil servant blamed 'senior leadership' at the top of Government for Covid rule-breaking in Downing Street.

Despite MPs being away from Westminster over the past week for their half-term recess, many continued to publicly reveal they had submitted no confidence letters to Sir Graham Brady, the chair of the powerful 1922 Committee.

A total of 54 letters are required to be handed to Sir Graham before the PM faces a confidence vote in his leadership.

It has been claimed that mark has already been reached, with one Tory rebel telling the Sunday Times that as many as 67 letters have gone in.

This has led to claims that Wednesday has already been pencilled in as the date for a vote on Mr Johnson's future.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps insisted - even if the PM were to face a vote on his leadership among Conservative MPs - he would win

Boris Johnson was booed by Jubilee crowds as he arrived, with his wife Carrie, at St Paul's Cathedral on Friday for a thanksgiving service

One Tory rebel claimed as many as 67 letters of no confidence have been submitted to 1922 Committee chair Sir Graham Brady

FACT BOX TITLE Boris Johnson has suffered a new blow after a Conservative donor demanded an 'immediate change of leadership'. Michael Tory, the founder of Ondra Partners, has given more than 340,000 to the party since 2010. He told the Sunday Times: 'I was a loyal and longstanding donor but can only resume donating if there is an immediate change of leadership. 'And it has to be now  before its too late to avoid a richly deserved obliteration at the next election, followed probably by a decade in opposition.' Advertisement

But Mr Shapps, speaking to the BBC's Sunday Morning programme, said he didn't think there would be a confidence vote this week.

The Cabinet minister also played down suggestions that, if the PM doesn't face a crunch moment in the coming days, it might come later this month following by-elections in Tiverton and Honiton, and Wakefield on 23 June.

The Tories are braced to lose both seats, with a JL Partners poll revealing that Labour are 20 points clear of the Tories in the 'Red Wall' constituency of Wakefield.

The day after the by-election results has already been dubbed 'Black Friday' for the PM.

A former Cabinet minister told the Sunday Times there was a '55 per cent' chance of a confidence vote taking place 'on Monday or Tuesday', with an '80 per cent' chance after the two by-elections.

Mr Shapps dismissed the results of the Wakefield poll, saying: 'The best thing to do with all elections is to allow the people to speak and to do so at the ballot box.'

He also suggested Tory MPs shouldn't be affected by 'mid-term' results for the party.

'Actually in the round when people judge Government by the general election - rather than mid-term where it's not unusual to see polling like this - people make a decision about whether you've delivered and done a good job for the country as a whole,' the Transport Secretary said.

How could Boris Johnson be ousted by Tory MPs? What is the mechanism for removing the Tory leader? Tory Party rules allow the MPs to force a vote of no confidence in their leader. How is that triggered? A vote is in the hands of the chairman of the Tory Party's backbench 1922 Committee, Sir Graham Brady. A vote of no confidence must be held if 15 per cent of Tory MPs write to the chairman. Currently that threshold is 54 MPs. Letters are confidential unless the MP sending it makes it public. This means only Sir Graham knows how many letters there are. What happens when the threshold is reached? A vote is held, with the leader technically only needing to win support from a simple majority of MPs But in reality, a solid victory is essential for them to stay in post. What happens if the leader loses? The leader is sacked if they do not win a majority of votes from MPs, and a leadership contest begins in which they cannot stand. However, they typically stay on as Prime Minister until a replacement is elected. Advertisement

Quizzed about the PM being booed by crowds as he arrived at St Paul's Cathedral on Friday for a Jubilee thanksgiving service, Mr Shapps warned against 'over-interpreting' the incident.

'There were also people cheering and you're not asking me why they did that,' he said.

'Look, politicians don't expect to be popular all the time - getting on with running the country is a job where you have to take difficult decisions a lot of the time.

'I wasn't there but I heard people booing, I heard people cheering.

'I think it's best to get on with the job at hand, running the country, rather than being overly distracted by the clips you just played.'

The Cabinet minister highlighted how Tory politicians, such as ex-Chancellor George Osborne, were booed at the 2012 Olympic Games in London, adding: 'It didn't mean the election wasn't won in 2015.

'I think you're rather over-interpreting it, if you don't mind me saying.'

Mr Shapps continued: 'Politicians by their very nature... will of course divide opinion. That's what politicians do, that's because we argue about different sides of issues.

'So of course you always get people who approve and people who disapprove. That's the point of a democratic free and democratic society.

'It's also the point of having a monarch where everyone can join together and support the Queen regardless of their politics.'

Mr Johnson is said to be plotting a fightback amid the increasing speculation about his future in Number 10.

The PM is expected to make two major speeches in the next fortnight.

One is expected to set out his plans to extend the right-to-buy scheme to millions more people.

Another, to be jointly delivered with Chancellor Rishi Sunak, will focus on efforts to grow the economy.

Meanwhile, the Sunday Telegraph reported Mr Johnson is preparing to unveil legislation to override the Northern Ireland Protocol this week.
A frantic search has been launched for a teenage girl missing for more than a week.

Armina, 13, was last seen at Nathan Court at Pakenham in Melbourne's southeast on May 26.

Her family and police have concerns for the teenager's welfare due to her age and the length of time she's been missing.

Armina, 13, (pictured) was last seen in Pakenham in Melbourne with her family concerned for her welfare

Armina is about 170cm tall with long dark hair and she is known to visit the Hallam, Dandenong and Cranbourne areas.

Police are appealing for the public's assistance to help locate Armina.

Anyone with information on her whereabouts is asked to contact Pakenham Police Station on 03 5945 2500.
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A devastated cat owner who spent 4,000 stuffing her beloved animal to make it look as it was asleep in its basket has insisted it was the best decision she ever made.

Nursing assistant Harriet Peace, 28, was distraught when her cat Tango died after being hit by a car in September 2021.

Ms Peace says she couldn't bear the thought of burying her cat, which she thought of as 'her child' and so was determined to have him preserved.

The taxidermy process took seven months and Tango had to be sent down to a special business in London. His grieving owner collected him last month and was thrilled with the results.

Ms Peace, of Mauchline, Ayrshire, said: 'He looks so realistic. He's exactly how he was and I'm so happy I have him here to remember him.'

She said her former partner, who she shared Tango with, was 'horrified' by the idea but it didn't stop her.

Nursing assistant Harriet Peace, 28, was distraught when her cat Tango died after being hit by a car in September 2021 and was determined to preserve him through taxidermy

Ms Peace says she couldn't bear the thought of burying her cat, which she thought of 'like her child' and so opted to have him preserved

The taxidermy process took seven months and Tango had to be sent down to a special business in London. His grieving owner collected him last month and was thrilled with the results (Pictured: Tango alive one Christmas morning)

Ms Peace said she thought of Tango like her child and was devastated when he was struck by a car last September

Ms Peace now wants to challenge notions about taxidermy and encourage other people who can afford it to consider it. She says having Tango back in her home was worth every penny of the 4,000 price tag.

She said: 'When Tango died, I was devastated - I couldn't bring myself to have him cremated.

'When someone mentioned taxidermy it sounded like the perfect way for him to be with me forever.

'I was really nervous when I dropped him off because I was worried he would look different and I would have made the wrong decision.

'But when I picked him up it was all worth it.

'Everyone jumps to the conclusion it is disgusting or degrading or prevents an animal from being at peace, but it's done very respectfully.

'If you had the chance to have your pet preserved how it was before for the rest of your life, wouldn't you do it?

'It is the best decision I ever could have made.'

Despite being hit by a car, Ms Peace said the cat had no visible injuries and he just looked asleep.

Ms Peace, of Mauchline, Ayrshire, said having Tango (pictured when alive) back in her home was worth every penny of the 4,000 price tag

Ms Peace, of Mauchline, Ayrshire, said: 'He looks so realistic. He's exactly how he was and I'm so happy I have him here to remember him'

Ms Peace said: '[Tango] was like my child, it was a huge loss to me. He had been through so much with me and I thought I'd have him for at least ten years - he was my wee sidekick'

'Taxidermy sounded like the perfect way for [Tango] to be with me forever,' said Ms Peace, whose former partner was 'horrified' by her decision

Taxidermy involves preserving an animal's body to appear life-like and only a select few businesses in the country offer it for pets.

Ms Peace said: 'He was like my child, it was a huge loss to me.

'He had been through so much with me and I thought I'd have him for at least ten years - he was my wee sidekick.

'Taxidermy sounded like the perfect way for him to be with me forever.'

Ms Peace put Tango in the freezer straight away and soon afterwards, was travelling from her home in Scotland to specialists Get Stuffed in London.

She chose to get Tango in a sleeping position with his eyes closed, so the specialists wouldn't need to put fake ones in.

Not everyone agreed with her decision and Ms Peace described how told how many people thought it was a bad idea.

She said: 'I thought it was an amazing thing to do, but I learnt quickly that everyone has different views on it.'

'I was really nervous when I dropped him off because I was worried he would look different and I would have made the wrong decision. 'But when I picked him up it was all worth it,' said Ms peace

Ms Peace said: 'If you had the chance to have your pet preserved how it was before for the rest of your life, wouldn't you do it?'

The taxidermy process took seven months and Tango had to be sent down to a special business in London so he could be preserved with chemicals

'Tango is exactly how he was. It's not for everyone but honestly, I couldn't thank the man who did it enough,' said Ms Peace

Despite brushing off negative opinions, Ms Peace said as time passed waiting for Tango to be ready to bring home, she did grow concerned she had made a bad decision.

'I got really quite scared at points,' she said. 'You don't really know what to expect.'

But when the time came on April 26, she went and picked Tango up from London to bring him home.

And as soon as she saw him, all her worries disappeared, adding: 'I couldn't believe it. His fur and everything - it was amazing. He is so realistic.'

Ms Peace wants to challenge notions about taxidermy and encourage people who can afford it to consider it.

She said: 'You hear a lot of bad things, and it costs a lot of money, so I was worried.

'But as soon as I walked in and saw him sat with all the other cats I just knew he was absolutely perfect.

'Tango is exactly how he was. It's not for everyone but honestly, I couldn't thank the man who did it enough.

'After losing my best friend it's the best gift anyone could give me. It's the best decision I ever made.'
On the health condition of the women, the collector said most of them had been recovered and 110 women were discharged from the NTR Hospital. (DC)

Visakhapatanam: The special committee appointed by the government to find the source of gas that leaked into Seeds Intimate India Ltd apparel manufacturing unit affecting as many as 270 female workers, began its investigation on Saturday.

Anakapalli district collector Ravi Patansetty told this newspaper that the committee, having three experts, began collecting samples from the seeds company and nearby units for analysis. The team members also collected blood samples of the women who were hospitalised.

It is a challenging task to identify the gas and the source through which it came, the collector said.

On the health condition of the women, the collector said most of them had been recovered and 110 women were discharged from the NTR Hospital, Anakapalli, after an expert team from Visakhapatnam cleared them in the morning. Two pregnant women are undergoing treatment in King George Hospital, Visakhapatnam.

The collector added that though the unit was non-hazardous, the management submitted its safety audit reports. He said the operations in the seeds unit had been suspended till the committee submitted its report.

Meanwhile, the Opposition TD and Left parties raised hue and cry over the incident blaming the management and the state government for the incident. Senior TD leaders including Telugu Mahila president and former MLA Vanagalapudi Anita condemned the government for its negligence of safety measures in manufacturing units.

State secretary of CPI (M) V. Srinivasa Rao demanded that the government file a criminal case against the management and arrest them. Talking to the media, Srinivasa Rao said the safety audit was not being done properly and this was the fourth incident after the styrene gas leak from LG Polymers.

It is strange that the complex employing more than 20,000 employees has no hospital. They had to search and wait for ambulances to take the patients to different hospitals, Srinivasa Rao said.
Japanese adventurer Kenichi Horie, 83, has become the oldest person to complete a solo, nonstop voyage across the Pacific Ocean  and he said he was still 'in the middle of my youth' and not finished yet.

Horie returned home as he crossed the Kii Strait off Japan's western coast early Saturday, completing his 5,500 mile trans-Pacific solo voyage in 69 days after leaving a yacht harbour in San Francisco in late March.

On Sunday, after spending the night on his 19-foot, 990kg Suntory Mermaid III just off the coast, Horie was towed into his home port of Shin Nishinomiya yacht harbour, where he was cheered by locals and supporters, some holding banners that read: 'Welcome back, Mr Kenichi Horie!'

Kenichi Horie, 83, has became the oldest person to complete a solo, nonstop voyage across the Pacific Ocean

The Japanese adventurer said he was still 'in the middle of my youth' and not finished yet

He carried a stock of medicine from San Francisco, he said, but only used eye drops and band-aids during his more than two months alone at sea. Horie said: 'That shows how healthy I am'

As he approached the harbour, Horie, standing in his boat, took off his white cap and waved. Then he got off the boat, took off the cap again and bowed deeply on the pier before he was presented with bouquets of roses.

'Thank you for waiting!' said Horie, tanned and with his white hair longer than usual.

He carried a stock of medicine from San Francisco, he said, but only used eye drops and band-aids during his more than two months alone at sea.

'That shows how healthy I am,' Horie said. 'I'm still in the middle of my youth.'

Horie returned home as he crossed the Kii Strait off Japan's western coast early Saturday, completing his 5,500 mile trans-Pacific solo voyage in 69 days

On Sunday, after spending the night on his 19-foot, 990kg Suntory Mermaid III just off the coast, Horie was towed into his home port of Shin Nishinomiya yacht harbour

He was cheered by locals and supporters, some holding banners that read: 'Welcome back, Mr Kenichi Horie!'

He said he 'burned all my body and soul' on the journey but says he's ready for more.

The avid sailor added: 'I will keep up my work to be a late bloomer.'

It was the latest record-setting achievement for the octogenarian adventurer, who in 1962 became the first person in the world to successfully complete a solo nonstop voyage across the Pacific from Japan to San Francisco.

Sixty years later, he traveled the opposite route.

It was the latest record-setting achievement for the octogenarian adventurer, who in 1962 became the first person in the world to successfully complete a solo nonstop voyage across the Pacific from Japan to San Francisco. Sixty years later, he traveled the opposite route

Horie has completed other long-distance solo voyages, including sailing around the world in 1974. His latest expedition was the first since his 2008 solo nonstop voyage on a wave-powered boat from Hawaii to the Kii Strait

Soon after his departure from San Francisco, he was faced with a storm, but the weather gradually improved and he reached Hawaii in mid-April ahead of schedule.

He had some struggles toward the end with a few days of pushback from a strong tide. He wrote on his blog on Friday that he had succeeded but was exhausted, and he took a nap after feeling assured that his yacht was on the right track to the finish line.

Horie has completed other long-distance solo voyages, including sailing around the world in 1974. His latest expedition was the first since his 2008 solo nonstop voyage on a wave-powered boat from Hawaii to the Kii Strait.
London mayor Sadiq Khan today rejected suggestions he could seek to replace Sir Keir Starmer if the Labour leader is forced to quit over Beergate.

Mr Khan insisted he was 'not at all' interested in leading Labour should Sir Keir have to resign over his boozy curry in Durham last year.

Sir Keir's dramatic vow to stand down if he is fined by police for breaking Covid lockdown rules has fuelled fresh speculation about who could succeed him.

The Labour leader has taken a huge gamble on his political future by promising to go if he receieves a fixed penalty notice (FPN).

The same pledge has also been made by Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner.

But, despite being among those touted as Sir Keir's likeliest successors, Mr Khan ruled out a future Labour leadership bid.

Asked on the BBC's Sunday Morning programme as to whether he had ambitions to lead his party, the London mayor replied: 'Not at all.'

Sadiq Khan insisted he was 'not at all' interested in leading Labour should Sir Keir Starmer have to resign over his boozy curry in Durham last year

Sir Keir's dramatic vow to stand down if he is fined by police for breaking Covid lockdown rules has fuelled fresh speculation about who could succeed him

The Labour leader was pictured sipping a beer as he shared a takeaway with colleagues at what he has repeatedly insisted was a 'work event' in Durham in April last year

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and Mayor of London Sadiq Khan during the Platinum Jubilee Pageant in front of Buckingham Palace

Mr Khan also became the latest Labour figure to attempt to draw a comparison between Sir Keir's Beergate row and the Partygate scandal faced by Boris Johnson.

'It is a good compare and contrast about the integrity of Keir Starmer and Angela Rayner versus Johnson and [Rishi] Sunak,' he added.

'The public should understand that one of these characters, Boris Johnson, presided over a culture of law-breaking.

'The other guy has the integrity to say, 'You know what? If there is a fixed-penalty notice, I'll quit'.'

Durham Police are still investigating allegations of a lockdown breach in relation to Sir Keir's Friday night gathering - which was also attended by Ms Rayner - in April 2021.

The Labour leader was pictured sipping a beer as he shared a takeaway with colleagues at what he has repeatedly insisted was a 'work event'.

Sir Keir has claimed he and Labour officials returned to their duties after the boozy curry in the run-up to local council elections and the Hartlepool by-election.

At the time of the Durham event, England was in the 'Step 2' rules that banned people from gathering indoors with people not from your own household.

However, there was an exemption for 'work purposes'.

Sir Keir has insisted the event was 'perfectly legal' and rejected 'ridiculous' comparisons with Covid rule-breaking in Downing Street.

Labour last week confirmed both Sir Keir and Ms Rayner have now receieved police questionnaires about the Durham gathering.

The party's fears that Sir Keir could be fined over Beergate are said to have grown after Durham Police confirmed they are following tough national guidelines on lockdown offences.

Meanwhile, Mr Khan kept up his pressure on the Metropolitan Police to explain their reasons for issuing fines as part of the Partygate scandal.

The Prime Minister receieved only one FPN - for his 56th birthday bash in Number 10 in June 2020 - despite having also been present at other events for which fines were issued.

Mr Khan claimed Scotland Yard's rationale for fining people looks 'odd' in relation to pictures of Downing Street parties published in the report by senior civil servant Sue Gray.

'I accept it does look odd in relation to the photographs we've now seen, in relation to the knowledge we now have of who received a fixed-penalty notice and who didn't,' the London mayor said.

'What is undisputed is there was a culture of law-breaking in Downing Street. No other property in the country received this many fines.'

Mr Khan suggested ongoing legal action, being brought in part by former Met Police chief and Liberal Democrat peer Brian Paddick, could shed more light on how and why Partygate fines were issued.

'What we don't want is the perception to be given that it is one rule for them, the rule-makers, and one rule for the rest of us,' he said.

'What I've not seen and what Lord Paddick will maybe see in the court case is the evidence for each individual case.

'I've just seen the one photograph we saw in relation to Boris Johnson raising his glass  clearly a party atmosphere.

'I've not seen the responses to the questionnaires or the other photographs. That's why it is right and proper for the court case to go ahead and for this to be looked into.'

Lawyers for Lord Paddick have said they wise to judicially review the 'apparent failure' of Scotland Yard to 'adequately investigate or investigate at all' the PM's participation in three Number 10 leaving dos.

Mr Khan last month demanded the Met Police deliver a 'detailed explanation' of their Partygate decisions in the wake of Ms Gray's report.

His actions prompted Tory fury and angry accusations of political meddling by the capital's mayor in police activities.
The father of Mia Janin, a 14-year-old pupil of the Jewish Free School (JFS) who killed herself in March 2021, has said he believes social media messages may have led to his daughter's death.

Mariano Janin implored parents and pupils of JFS to come forward with information regarding Mia's death and expressed concern that venomous social media messages or videos may have tipped his daughter, who had been subject to bullying according to fellow pupils, over the edge.

'This whole experience has been a nightmare that is too horrible to explain. Every day feels as though I am living in slow motion. Parents with information  please take it to the coroner,' he told The Times.

'We need to know what happened for the sake of other children as well as for Mia.'

Janin became the third pupil at the Jewish state school in North London to kill herself since 2017 when she took her own life one day after returning to school following lockdown last year.

The year 10 pupil reportedly asked her parents if she could move school the evening before her death, and investigators discovered she had sent a voice message to a friend ahead of the first day back in which she said she was 'mentally preparing herself to get bullied by him and all of his boyfriends'.

Mariano also said he knows Mia logged into a social media app just hours before her death, but does not know what she saw, sent or received.

Her phone was handed to police in the wake of her death but has remained locked, keeping Mariano and the rest of Mia's family in awful suspense for more than a year.

It is set to be unlocked before the next hearing into Mia's death takes place on Wednesday, and Mariano hopes investigators will discover the catalyst that drove his daughter to end her life.

Janin became the third pupil at the Jewish state school in North London to kill herself since 2017 when she took her own life one day after returning to school following lockdown last year

Jewish Free School in Kenton, North London, was branded 'inadequate' in an emergency Ofsted inspection following Mia's death last year

Mia's death bears a stark resemblance to that of Molly Russell, another 14-year-old JFS student who killed herself in 2017 after viewing messages on social media, and prompted an emergency Ofsted investigation into the school.

Ofsted's report downgraded the largest Jewish school in Europe from 'good' to 'inadequate' and announced many JFS pupils were subject to harsh bullying with little to no intervention from staff.

'Not all pupils observe appropriate boundaries. Relationships between some pupils are damaged by unchallenged, inappropriate behaviour,' the report read.

'In some cases, this has escalated to harmful behaviour, including sexual harassment. Many pupils report sexual bullying, including via social media.'

Meanwhile, a change.org petition launched by one of Mia's fellow pupils accused the school of refusing to acknowledge the year 10 student's death and called for renewed mental health support for attendees of JFS.

'We had an assembly on the same day introducing our interim head teacher and not once did they mention Mia or bullying or prioritising mental health... It needs to be known that JFS has not taken accountability for their role in this tragic incident... they have not done anything to further support anybody and they claim they want their students to feel safe,' the petition read, having claimed Mia was 'brutally bullied for such a long time'.

A change.org petition launched by one of Mia's fellow pupils accused the school of refusing to acknowledge the year 10 student's death and called for renewed mental health support for attendees of JFS

Former JFS headteacher Rachel Fink wrote in the aftermath of Mia's death :'We know how special and close a Jewish school community can be and how such devastating news can affect pupils, staff and governors and we want them to know that we are thinking of them.'

Fink along with several other heads stressed the dangers posed to young people by social media platforms and added that the issue was 'not a problem particular to JFS or indeed to our community,' highlighting the fact the death came after just one school day following months of lockdown.

JFS headteacher Dr David Moody, who joined after Mia's death, told The Times: 'All aspects of this case are currently being investigated by external agencies including the police and coroner's office.

'JFS is a school that is always looking to improve and we will ensure that any recommendations or conclusions are acted upon.'

The Metropolitan Police said: 'Throughout this investigation officers have ensured the girl's family have been updated with the progress of this work. A final report will be provided to the coroner ... At this time, no evidence of criminality has been found.'

Inquests into the two deaths prior to Mia's involving JFS pupils found no fault with the school.

For support call the Samaritans on 116123 or go to www.samaritans.org.
The pro-Russian separatist Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) said today that it had completed its criminal investigation into British prisoner of war Aiden Aslin, who was captured by Vladimir Putin's invading forces in Ukraine in April.

In an announcement, the Prosecutor General's Office of the separatist DPR said Mr Aslin's case had been passed to the courts, and that he is facing the death penalty.

The 28-year-old had been fighting with Ukrainian soldiers in Mariupol when he was captured, and is one of at least three British men being held by pro-Russian forces.

Shaun Pinner, 48, and Andrew Hill, 35, were also captured and are being held by the authorities in the so-called DPR.

It was reported at the end of May that both Mr Pinner and Mr Hill are also being tried as mercenaries and are therefore also facing the death penalty.

Mariupol is found in Ukraine's eastern Donbas region. While the DPR has claimed much of the territory since the 2014 conflict, it is still recognised as being Ukrainian territory by Kyiv and its allies.

However, Russia's state-owned RIA news agency said on Sunday that the investigation found Mr Aslin had taken part in 'the armed aggression of Ukraine to forcibly seize power in the republic for a reward.'

'The criminal case was sent to court, the first hearing will be held soon,' it noted.

A former care worker, Mr Aslin (pictured left) moved to Ukraine after falling for his now-wife Diane (pictured right), who is originally from the city of Mykolaiv - found about 260 miles west of Mariupol, along the coast. He was captured by pro-Russian forces in April

Incendiary ammunition airbursts are seen during a shelling, as Russia's attack on Ukraine continues, in the town of Marinka, in Donetsk region, Ukraine June 3, 2022

The announcement from the DPR Prosecutor General's Office, which was posted to Telegram, said Mr Aslin had been charged with four separate offences: Committing a crime as part of a criminal group; forcible seizure of power or forcible retention of power; being a mercenary; and the promotion of training in terrorist activities.

'Taking into account wartime, on the basis of the provisions of the current main law, according to the results of the trial, the mercenary may be assigned an exceptional measure of punishment - the death penalty,' the statement said.

At the end of May, it was announced that Mr Pinner and Mr Hill are also to be put on trial in the DPR. There is a fear is that the pro-Russians will stage a show trial aimed at maximising concessions from Britain.

If convicted, the maximum penalty is execution - believed to be by gun shot - for conducting 'combat operations' against the pro-Putin region, said a local law enforcement official.

Eyebrows were raised at the time when Mr Aslin was not named as potentially facing the death penalty - unlike the two other British prisoners of war.

The suspicion was that his DPR captives were using him for propaganda purposes.

Shaun Pinner (left) and Aiden Aslin (right), who had been serving in the Ukrainian marines, were captured by Putin's troops in the city of Mariupol in April. Another British man, Andrew Hill, is also being held by the DPR

Last week, he was seen fronting a YouTube channel praising his captors, in an apparent Russian propaganda effort. He was shown praising the 'amazing' food he receives in detention, and offering to answer questions from around the world.

Hill, a father-of-four from Plymouth who surrendered in Mykolaiv, last month confessed in a video broadcast by pro-Putin media admitted to 'unwittingly' being involved in 'war crimes' -and pleaded for leniency.

Pinner in April appeared drained as he acknowledged he understood charges against him. Earlier in May, Pinner and Aslin had been told by prosecutor Andrei Spivak that they had committed 'a number of crimes against civilians of the Donetsk People's Republic.

'The maximum punishment for these crimes is the death penalty,' Spivak said.

A former care worker, Mr Aslin moved to Ukraine after falling for his now-wife Diane, who is originally from the city of Mykolaiv - found about 260 miles west of Mariupol, along the coast.

People walk their bikes across the street as smoke rises above a plant of Azovstal Iron and Steel Works during Ukraine-Russia conflict in the southern port city of Mariupol, May 2

A view of the destruction of the city of besieged Mariupol in Ukraine on March 26

He had previously travelled to Syria in 2015 to fight for the Kurds in a western-backed alliance against ISIS, and he made headlines on his return to the UK in 2016 when he was arrested and charged with terrorism offences. All charges were later dropped.

Aslin then returned to Syria in 2017 to help in the fight to re-take the city of Raqqa, which had been the de-facto capital of ISIS's terror-state.

After being arrested in the UK a second time trying to return from Syria via Greece, Aslin moved to Ukraine after falling for Diane.

Having heard about the fight against Russia in Donbas from Ukrainian volunteers in Syria, he was persuaded to join the military and in 2018 signed up as a marine.

Aslin completed three tours of the frontline and was dug into trenches in the Donbas in late February when Putin's troops stormed across the border in a second invasion.

He ended up falling back to the nearby city of Mariupol where he fought for weeks under siege, before being captured in April after his unit ran out of ammunition.
One of the ten Republican representatives who voted to impeach Donald Trump after the January 6 Capitol attack wouldn't commit to supporting Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy to become speaker if the GOP retakes the House in the 2022 midterms.

South Carolina Congressman Tom Rice told ABC News' Jonathan Karl in an interview that aired Sunday morning that he thinks Wyoming GOP Representative Liz Cheney would make a 'great Speaker', even though she will almost assuredly lose her primary in August.

'If Republicans win back the House do you think McCarthy should be Speaker?' Karl asked Rice in the pre-recorded interview.

'I'm not going to answer that one right now,' Rice responded with a smirk.

He added: 'We'll see what happens.'

Rice also said that he could potentially support Trump again 'if he came out and said, 'I'm sorry that I made a huge mistake on January 6.'

'Then I might consider it,' he added.

When asked about the potential of congressional leadership from Cheney, Rice immediately said: 'I think she'd be a great Speaker.'

'I think she's a real Republican. I think she is very conservative and I think she's a fearless leader,' Rice told Karl in his interview, which aired Sunday morning on ABC's This Week program.

Rice insisted that his decision to impeach Trump was the true 'conservative vote.'

The congressman running for his sixth term in office explained to Karl that he is among the Republicans who chose to 'defend the Constitution' in voting for impeachment.

Representative Tom Rice, one of the Republicans who was in favor of impeaching Donald Trump after the January 6 Capitol riot, wouldn't say Sunday if he would support Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy becoming speaker if the GOP retook a majority in the House in the 2022 midterms

.@ABC NEWS EXCLUSIVE: GOP Rep. Tom Rice tells @JonKarl that he thinks Rep. Liz Cheney would make a great Speaker of the House.



She's a real Republican. I think she is very conservative and I think she's fearless leader. https://t.co/2ZlroTCfl7 pic.twitter.com/Jx1bZPRXye  ABC News Politics (@ABCPolitics) June 5, 2022

'Why are you such an outlier then, on your willingness to stand up to Donald Trump? I mean, why are there so few Republicans like you?' Karl asked.

'It's really interesting because there are people calling me a RINO,' Rice said.

'Republican in Name Only,' the ABC reporter detailed the acronym Trump has dubbed his in-party enemies. 'When you have a voting record that is more conservative than '

'Right, absolutely,' Rice cut in. 'Defending the Constitution is a bedrock of the Republican platform, right?'

'Defend the Constitution  and that's what I did. That was the conservative vote,' he said of his vote last year.

Coming up on @ThisWeekABC -



My exclusive interview with @TomRiceSC7 -- who explains why he believes his vote to impeach Donald Trump was "the conservative vote"



Here's a clip: pic.twitter.com/vUfEhYzv3f  Jonathan Karl (@jonkarl) June 5, 2022

'Impeachment is the conservative vote?' Karl questioned.

'Absolutely, it was the conservative vote,' Rice replied. 'There's no question in my mind.'

Rice won reelection for his fifth term in 2020 with 61.8 percent against his Democratic challenger's 38.1 percent as Trump lost his reelection bid. The congressman is now running for a sixth shot at representing South Carolina's northeastern shore line, including Myrtle Beach.

Although some other Republicans' vote to impeach Trump was more predictable, not many saw Rice's vote coming.

The district Rice represents is very pro-Trump, with the former president winning it with 59 percent to 40 percent. He also gave no indication ahead of the vote that he would be in favor of the second impeachment of Trump.

Speculation stirred during his vote that he had unintentionally cast the wrong vote, but Rice later clarified on Twitter: 'I have backed this President through thick and thin for four years. I campaigned for him and voted for him twice. But, this utter failure is inexcusable.'

Two of those who voted to impeach  Wyoming's at-large Representative Liz Cheney and Illinois Congressman Adam Kinzinger  are the two Republicans serving with seven Democrats on Nancy Pelosi's panel probing the January 6 Capitol riot.

Representatives Adam Kinzinger (right) and Liz Cheney (left) are two of the Republicans who voted for impeachment and are on the Democrat-led panel probing the January 6 Capitol riot

The select committee will begin prime time hearings this week in the probe into the Capitol attack last January, which Democrats and the ten Republicans tried to immediately peg on Trump and his rhetoric toward his supporters after the 2020 presidential election.

Those GOP lawmakers who voted to impeach Trump for the second time include, Cheney, Kinzinger, Rice, Dan Newhouse and Jaime Herrera Beutler of Washington, Anthony Gonzalez of Ohio, Fred Upton and Peter Meijer of Michigan, John Katko of New York and David Valadao of California.

Rice said that Cheney, who was booted from her post as No. 3 Republican after her impeachment vote, would make a 'great' Speaker of the House.

Not only did Cheney lose her spot as Republican Conference Chairwoman, she was also censured by the Republican National Committee (RNC) and the GOP in her home state of Wyoming.

Cheney is running for reelection for the at-large district in the most pro-Trump state, but it's unlikely she will win come the primary in August.

Her Trump-backed primary competitor Harriet Hageman is showing 30 points ahead just a few months before the election.
An Australian bodybuilder and former Mr Universe has shared confronting footage showing his injuries after crashing through a second storey window.

Calum von Moger, 31, who rose through the ranks of the bodybuilding scene before finding fame playing a young Arnold Schwarzenegger in a 2016 film, plunged from the window of his Melbourne home on May 6.

He was then placed in an induced coma, leading some fans to fear he would not walk again, but after a month he continues to be making a steady recovery.

Mr von Moger returned to Instagram on Sunday night posting bible passage with the caption 'it's nice to be alive'.

'For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. They are plans for good and not disaster to give you a future and a hope,' the bible passage read.

He followed the post up by sharing serveral clips which showed the weightlifter's legs and arms bruised and patched up with wound dressings while he lay in a hospital bed.

Mr von Moger required dozens of stitches after he crashed through a second storey window

Von Moger was caught driving an unregistered car that was loaded with illicit drugs

He was placed in an induced coma but is now recovering after 11 days in hospital

Multiple large cuts can be seen on his bicep and forearm requiring dozens of stitches, while smaller cuts and grazes cover his hands and knees.

He also appeared to be back in the gym already as part of his recovery, posting one clip from a weight bench.

Fellow bodybuilder and Youtuber Nick Trigilli previously revealed Moger was in a 'rough spot' when he fell from the window.

He had reportedly been kicked out of his family's home in recent months after dealing with a string of setbacks.

'I hope this is rock bottom for him and he can get his life back,' Trigilli said.

Mr von Moger returned to Instagram on Sunday night posting bible passage with the caption 'it's nice to be alive'

The Aussie bodybuilder had pumped himself with so much testosterone over the years he can no longer produce it naturally

The bodybuilder was back in the gym after suffering significant injuries just a month ago

Mr von Moger appeared in Melbourne Magistrate's court 10 days ago shortly after he was released from hospital.

He plead guilty to possessing a variety of drugs, including testosterone, cannabis and about two grams of methamphetamine - the deadly drug ice.

Appearing via video link with his arm in a sling, the court heard von Moger remained in severe pain after spending 11 days in The Alfred hospital following the fall before his release on May 17.

He told the court he was suffering severe depression when he plunged through the window.

The home where Von Moger fell from the second storey window which is boarded up

The drugs were found when months earlier on January 31 Mr von Moger was pulled over in Melbourne's CBD when cops observed his Ford Ranger was unregistered.

A search was conducted, with officers finding a shoulder bag containing a small deal bag of meth.

A further search turned up his illicit stash of testosterone, needles, three containers of cannabis oil, another bag of white crystal powder and an assortment of prescription drugs, including Viagra.

He was arrested but claimed in the interview the drugs must have belonged to friends he had been driving around that weekend.

He did, however, admit to using testosterone for the past 10 years.

'I no longer produce it naturally and need to have it to be normal,' von Moger told cops.

'I use the testosterone weekly to keep my levels stable. I use the cannabis oil to help me settle and sleep.'

Bodybuilder Calum von Moger, 31, reportedly fell through a window on May 6, injuring his spine

Days before that arrest he had been allegedly embroiled in an argument with a shopper at a Woolworth's car park in West Melbourne.

That incident saw von Moger slapped with a series of assault-related charges, including affray and conduct endangering life, which he intends to contest in court.

Von Moger's lawyer, Bernard Campigli, told the court his client had since been accepted into a residential rehabilitation facility, which would treat him for the next month.

The court heard von Moger had been struggling with depression since his father was crippled in a tragic motorbike accident.

The Australian's first acting gig was in 2017 for the film Generation Iron 2, but he's best known for his portrayal of a young Arnold Schwarzenegger in the 2018 movie Bigger.

Von Moger played a young Arnold Schwarzenegger (pictured together) in the 2018 film Bigger and has been dubbed 'Arnold 2.0' in the bodybuilding world

The film was based on Joe and Ben Weider, the two brothers who co-founded the International Federation of BodyBuilders and put the sport on the map.

He later released his own documentary titled Calum von Moger: Unbroken on Netflix in 2019.

The film detailed Moger's rise through the bodybuilding ranks to a point where he was dubbed 'Arnold 2.0' and how that came crashing down following a significant knee and bicep injury while abseiling.

'I was pretty broken - pretty heartbroken,' he said upon reflecting on his injury.

In the same year he nearly lost his home due to devastating fires in California.

However Covid had caused his acting work to dry up forcing him to return to Australia.

His defence lawyer said he had 'struggled to find balance' since being back, especially after the death of his beloved support dog.

Moger had reportedly been kicked out of his family's home in Australia in recent times

On top of this the body builder is involved in a bitter custody battle with his ex back in Los Angeles over their two-year-old son.

The court heard von Moger spent a night behind bars following his arrest, which acted as a 'sobering experience'.

But when news of his troubles became known within the bodybuilding community, von Moger's mental health took another plunge after being subjected to online hate and trolling.

The court heard von Moger was determined to get his life back in order so that he could return to the US and engage with his son and girlfriend, who has travelled to Melbourne to support him with his legal woes.

The magistrate Roslyn Porter did not record a conviction over the assorted drugs found on Mr von Moger, noting von Moger's total lack of prior offending and previous good behaviour.

Instead von Moger was simply ordered to pay $500 to the court fund, which will go to a court-appointed charity.

Moger (pictured with a friend) released his own documentary titled Calum von Moger: Unbroken on Netflix in 2019
The BBC production team behind coverage of Prince William's Earthshot Prize Awards and Harry and Meghan's wedding have been praised for organising a 'phenomenal' show to mark the Queen's 70th anniversary on the throne.

Brits have commended organisers for the 'magical' and 'phenomenal' show last night, as thousands watched live from The Mall, with a peak of 13.4 million tuning in via their televisions, making it the most watched programme of the year.

Two of the key organisers were Claire Popplewell, creative director for BBC Studios Events and Mark Sidaway, executive producer for the BBCs Platinum Party at the Palace.

Claire Popplewell, creative director for BBC Studios Events was a key organiser of yesterday's party outside the palace

One of yesterday's key organisers was Mark Sidaway, executive producer for the BBCs Platinum Party at the Palace. Pictured last month at the BAFTAs

Ms Popplewell has been employed by BBC Studios for three years and eight months, having taken the role after a multi-award winning career as director, executive producer, producer and editor.

She had spent a more than 27 years with the BBC as an editor of ceremonial events, and executive producer.

She is currently responsible for the planning and execution of all royal, ceremonial and commemorative programming, and has delivered global events including Live 8, the funeral of Nelson Mandela, the international broadcast of Harry and Meghan's wedding, D-Day 75 and, most recently, VE Day 75.

Brits have commended organisers for the 'magical' and 'phenomenal' show last night, as thousands watched live from The Mall, with a peak of 13.4 million tuning in via their televisions

Royal fans watch as Prince Charles, and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, appear on stage during the Platinum Jubilee concert taking place in front of Buckingham Palace

Drone Show above Buckingham Palace during the BBC's Platinum Party at the Palace spelt 'Thank You Ma'am' in tribute to the Queen

The crowds heard archive recordings of the Queen speaking about the future of the planet in 1989 during her Christmas Message: 'The future of all life on earth depends on how we behave towards one another and how we treat the plants and animals that share our world with us'

Speaking ahead of the jubilee, she said: 'The BBC Ceremonial Events team has been at every major Royal landmark since The Queen's coronation in 1953.

'Its been a challenging couple of months but long term relationships with the Met Police, Royal Parks and the Armed Forces have helped them to look favourably on our endless and sometimes bizarre requests.'

This included a 360 degree view of the Horse Guards Parade.

Mr Sidaway has been with BBC Studios for one year and five months, having worked as an executive producer for both NBC and ITV's The X Factor.

He was also executive producer for the first ever Earthshot Prize Awards Ceremony at Alexandra Palace on October 17, 2021, with his team winning a BAFTA for the Best Live Event at the awards last month.

Mark Sidaway, executive producer for the BBCs Platinum Party at the Palace, (right), with Dermot O'Leary and Clara Amfo after winning a BAFTA for the Best Live Event, after organising 'The Earthshot Prize 2021'

The University of Sheffield graduate said that he was 'thrilled and honoured' when the Queen agreed to star in a special sequence with Paddington Bear.

'It was slightly nerve-wracking ensuring it all blended seamlessly with the live performance from Queen + Adam Lambert,' he added.

Talking about the Earthshot Prize, launched by Prince William and The Royal Foundation, Mr Sidaway said it was a 'monumental challenge' to create an 'unforgettable and star-studded awards ceremony' while 'striving to achieve the highest standards of sustainability'.

This morning, Sir Cliff Richard said that last night's spectacle was the best performance created for Her Majesty.

'The show that I saw last night was probably the best produced show ever done for the Queen,' he told Sky News.

'I mean they must have spent millions on the lighting, it was just fantastic.'

Tom Bairstow, founder of design and production studio NorthHouse, worked with the BBC on the event, designing the visuals for the celebrations

NorthHouse, a design and production studio, worked with the BBC on the event, designing the visuals for the celebrations.

It brought the palace to life with projection-mapped visuals and LED screens visuals.

Founder Tom Bairstow said that it was an 'honour' to be awarded the contract and help deliver the show for the Queen and the BBC.

His team spent six months preparing for the production, and had to 3D scan Buckingham Palace, before replicating it in their purpose-built software and designing the projections to fit every angle of the building.

'It was incredibly technically difficult,' Mr Bairstow said. 'It was just amazing to see it all. When we got there, everything worked perfectly.'

His team also worked closely with drone light show company, SKYMAGIC, to bring 'ideas from the projection into the drones and back down'.

'It was an opportunity to collaborate,' Mr Bairstow added. 'We have worked on big shows including the Super Bowl, and spent a year with Coldplay... but this was obviously really special.

'It has been amazing, and there has been an incredible response.'

How was the drone display created? Created by SKYMAGIC, last night's display featured 400 drones above Buckingham Palace. The performance was created in the six months up to the event, with the SKYMAGIC team working with the BBC and the palace on designs. Once a finished storyboard had been agreed, including the much-loved corgi, the design was animated by the team using specialist software. They then assign 'individual way points' to each drone so that they can carry out their 'own mission' on the night. The team usually rehearse the display for a week in the performance location, but the 'top secret' nature of the jubilee concert meant that last night's performance was the only one in that space. Instead, they did a few rehearsals in an 'off-grid location' in the north of England. The battery-powered drones have two geo fences surrounding them, meaning that if anything went wrong and the drone reached the fence, it would carefully lower to the ground. Advertisement

Also among those praising organisers was musician Gary Barlow, and former Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osbourne.

Charlotte Moore, the BBCs chief content officer, said in the lead-up to the show that she was 'thrilled' to be bringing the nation together for the 'incredible, once-in-a-lifetime event' to celebrate the Queen's 'momentous' 70 years on the throne.

The performance included a special two and half minute sequence between the monarch and Paddington Bear, which had been kept under wraps for several months by Buckingham Palace, BBC Studios and Heyday Films/STUDIOCANAL.

Anna Marsh, CEO of STUDIOCANAL said that filming with Her Majesty and Paddington at the palace is a memory to 'cherish', adding 'Her Majesty's warmth and generosity was a joy to behold'.

Last night's set-up included three stages, linked by walkways, which created a unique 360 experience in front of Buckingham Palace and The Queen Victoria Memorial.

They were linked together with 70 columns representing each year of Her Majesty's reign.

To the left of the palace was an orchestra stage with a 75-piece orchestra from military musicians from the British Armys Household Division Bands.

And to the right was the Pop stage, which was backed by LED screens. In front of the Queen Victoria Memorial was the final stage, facing crowds in The Mall.

The entire front of Buckingham Palace was projection mapped  making it the UKs biggest screen for the night.

Throughout the evening, the live concert spanned more than two and a half hours, with 30-plus artists and performers in the line-up from pop, rock, classical and musicals, with Queen + Adam Lambert opening the show.

The event was staged by BBC Studios Productions. The same team produced coverage for Trooping the Colour, the lighting of the beacons, the thanksgiving service at St Pauls and the Pageant.

They also made Elizabeth: The Unseen Queen.
A California woman found herself sitting pretty on $36,000 after she discovered that a couch she had acquired through Craiglist for free was actually a treasure box.

Vicky Umodu had just moved to her new home in San Bernardino County, and was looking for alternative options to fill her empty house.

So when Umodu came across a Craiglist advertisement for a free couch, she thought it was the perfect chance to score a nice piece of furniture.

'I said, ''Maybe it's a gimmick.'' I said, ''Let me call them,''' she told ABC.

'I just moved in, and I don't have anything in my house. I was so excited, so we picked it up and brought it in,' she added.

Vicky Umodu had just moved to her new home in San Bernardino County, and was looking for alternative options to fill her empty house

She found $36,000 in cash stashed inside the beige, floral-patterned couch. Umodu returned the money and was rewarded $2,200

Inside manila envelopes was the $36,000. Umodu said she was never tempted to take the money and immediately called the man who had given her the couch

What she didn't expect was to find $36,000 in cash stashed inside the beige, floral-patterned couch.

'I was just telling my son, ''Come, come, come!'' I was screaming, ''this is money! I need to call the guy.'''

The conscious woman returned the massive sum of money to the original owners of the couch and was rewarded with $2,200 by the grateful family.

Umodu said she found the money inside one of the cushions and initially thought it was a heating pad, but disregarded the thought when she failed to find an electrical cord

Umodu said she found the money inside one of the cushions and initially thought it was a heating pad, but disregarded the thought when she failed to find an electrical cord, ABC reported.

Inside manila envelopes was the $36,000. Umodu said she was never tempted to take the money and immediately called the man who had given her the couch.

He later told Umodu that he and his family had decided to give way the couch, which belonged to a relative who had recently died.

As a thank you for her honesty, Umodu was rewarded with $2,200, which she used to buy a refrigerator.

'God has been kind to me and my children, they're all alive and well. I have three beautiful grandchildren, so what can I ever ask from God?' Umodu told abc.
A father whose son died on Russia's stricken Moskva cruiser has claimed he knows the horrible truth behind what happened to the hundreds of lost crew.

Dmitry Shkrebets, whose 20-year-old son Yegor was on-board when it was blasted by Ukrainian missiles in the Black Sea, claims the cruiser was deliberately sunk by Moscow to cover up the disaster - with the surviving sailors still on-board.

Shkrebets, 43, has led a solo campaign for transparency and justice on the fate of Vladimir Putin's Black Sea Fleet flagship which was destroyed on 14 April by a suspected double Neptune missile strike launched by Kyiv's forces.

He has demanded that the Kremlin come clean about the real death toll - officially just one - amid suspicions that dozens, or even hundreds, perished. And he has threatened to reveal more details, while insisting he is a true patriot to Russia.

Defying warnings to stay silent, Shkrebets asked: 'Want to know why there were no badly wounded survivors from the Moskva?

'Because they sank them together with the cruiser.

'They couldn't tug the ship to Sevastopol, because everyone would realise what happened, so overnight from 13 to 14 April they pulled it further south, and sank it.

'This is the naked truth. The scary, awful truth, and I'll prove it. The time will pass, and I'll prove it. Look at the awful beasts we have as our authorities.'

A father whose son died on Russia's stricken Moskva cruiser (pictured) has claimed he knows the horrible truth behind what happened to the hundreds of lost crew

Yegor Shkrebets (right), 20, a conscript who went missing after the Moskva cruiser death, is shown posing with his father Dmitry Shkrebets, who has has led a solo campaign for transparency and justice on the fate of Vladimir Putin's Black Sea Fleet flagship which was destroyed on 14 April by a suspected Ukrainian Neptune double-missile strike

Russia has still not acknowledged the huge death toll, so far only admitting one casualty from the embarrassing blow to the Kremlin war effort. At the time, Russia claimed the Moskva was destroyed in an accident involving a munitions explosion.

Shkrebets says he has been targeted by Russian security services after he threatened to expose the true hidden horror of what happened to the lost crew.

The bereaved father has been interrogated for alleged terrorist offences after intelligence officials made 'fake' claims that he had sent bomb threats, he said.

Shkrebets revealed that interrogators had been sent to him by Russian secret services after he publicly criticised the failure to reveal the true death toll on the Moskva which had 510 crew members including an estimated 300 conscripts.

He accused them of concocting a bogus story that he had sent bomb threats from his laptop.

'I'm even embarrassed for those serious, smart and really polite people who were forced to visit me because of such a bestial fake,' he said.

'It seemed to someone that the tragic death of my son did not shock me enough, not enough grief, not enough trouble.'

His son Yegor, 20, was lost in the sinking. He was a conscript - despite President Putin publicly insisting that draftees would not be sent to the military conflict.

Russia has still not acknowledged the suspected huge death toll, so far only admitting one casualty from the embarrassing blow to the Kremlin war effort. At the time, Russia claimed the Moskva (pictured, file photo) was destroyed in an accident involving a munitions explosion

Yegor, 20, was lost in the sinking. He was a conscript - despite President Putin publicly insisting that draftees would not be sent to the military conflict

The authorities appear to be seeking to gag him after he said earlier: 'There were no rescue efforts. Officers fled the ship like rats, the sailors were abandoned.' He vowed: 'Putin will answer personally. He is used to lying.'

Denying there was any evidence of a bomb threat on his confiscated computer, he said: 'You can't make a terrorist out of someone who can never be one by nature, mindset and character.'

He called on officials who know the fate of the Moskva to admit it.

'I can call myself a patriot in the healthy sense of the word,' he said.

'I can't understand why everyone is silent. We've lost our flagship, we've lost our people - and it's like nothing happened.'

The head of the Black Sea Fleet Admiral Igor Osipov has not been seen in public since the ship sank.

The alleged bid to repress Shkrebets with trumped-up charges comes as sensational new details have emerged of how the warship was hit by two suspected Ukrainian Neptune missiles, one in the bow, the second in the stern 'below the waterline'.

The account comes from Igor Strelkov, 51, a former intelligence and army veteran who was formerly a staunchly pro-Vladimir Putin commander of clandestine military operations during the annexation of Crimea and in Donbas in 2014.

'[There were] two missiles - the first [hit] the bow of the ship, the second hit the stern, below the waterline,' he told TV presenter Andrei Kovalyov.

'Initially the artillery cellar of the 130-mm tower blew up as a result of the first strike.

'Then the ammunition for two Vulkans - these are anti-aircraft guns, multi-stem.

'There was smoke. The command post was disabled.'

The Moskva was the flagship of Russia's Black Sea fleet. Pictured: Russian president Vladimir Putin is shown on-board the missile cruiser with Egypt's then-president Abdel Fattah el-Sisi

Igor Strelkov, a former intelligence officer who was formerly a staunchly pro-Vladimir Putin commander of clandestine military operations in Ukraine, speaks out on the Moskva cruiser to TV presenter Andrei Kovalyov

His version is that the attack - which Russia has not admitted, instead claiming the vessel sank from an on board fire and explosion - took the crew's commanders by surprise.

'The S-300 [missile defence] were not even open,' he said. And at that moment the second missile hit the hold. 'The cruiser tilted on the left and after some time it sank.'

The Moskva sank between one and three hours after the strike, said Strelkov, real name Igor Girkin who is wanted in the West over the shooting down flight MH17 over eastern Ukraine in 2014.

When quizzed by Kovalyov, he played down rumours that the West - rather than Ukraine - had fired the missiles which sank the Moskva.

'Were those Ukrainian missiles? There are rumours circulating that someone else launched them,' said the presenter. 'Who else?' replied Strelkov. 'I do not rule out anything, our dear Western partners might launch, but I do not know that.'
A British man has been arrested by police on suspicion of assaulting his wife just hours after they got married during a holiday in Majorca.

The unnamed groom is said to have hit his bride at their boozy wedding party after having too much to drink.

The surreal incident happened on Friday night at an unidentified venue in the tourist town of Peguera in the municipality of Calvia the same day they tied the knot nearby.

The surreal incident happened on Friday night at an unidentified venue in the tourist town of Peguera in the municipality of Calvia the same day they tied the knot nearby

Local reports police were called just before 9pm after the Brit 'got violent' as he celebrated on the couple's big day, with respected island newspaper Ultima Hora saying officers had to restrain him before arresting him after being informed he had assaulted the bride (File image of Peguera)

The woman is said to have left the venue and returned later, unaware he had been taken into police custody, to look for him (File image of Peguera)

Local reports police were called just before 9pm after the Brit 'got violent' as he celebrated on the couple's big day, with respected island newspaper Ultima Hora saying officers had to restrain him before arresting him after being informed he had assaulted the bride.

The woman is said to have left the venue and returned later, unaware he had been taken into police custody, to look for him.

Civil Guard officers took charge of the case after the arrest by local police.

It was not immediately clear today if he had appeared before a judge in a closed court hearing.

The 'assaulted' bride is understood to have declined to press charges, although there has not yet been any official confirmation.

The Civil Guard in Majorca could not be reached for comment at midday today.
HYDERABAD: In a rare case, the Telangana High Court cancelled the auction of a land and a house which was conducted in 1965. The court also set aside the transactions and alienations made upon such properties, since they had been auctioned.

The government confiscated the land of 11 acres 25 guntas in Survey No. 117 and 121 (old) and 124, 128/2 (new) along with house property bearing Door No. 1-42, Burugupally, Mominpet mandal, Ranga Reddy district in 1958, from its owner under the Revenue Recovery Act, because he defaulted arrears of rentals to the government to a tune of `3,393 for a toddy shop.

The owner, K. Rama Goud, had mortgaged the agricultural land and house as security for payment of rentals in respect of the toddy shop.

After taking over the land, the government had tried to auction it in 1958 and 1964. The highest bidders twice failed to credit the bid amount, which was Rs.2,725 at both times. With no one coming forward to purchase the properties, the government by invoking Board Standing Order No. 45 purchased the agricultural land for `10 and house for `50.

After that, the government had assigned a piece of 9 acres and 6 guntas in the land parcel to an ex-serviceman in 1979, who subsequently sold part of it to the GITAM University.

In 1995, the legal heirs of Rama Goud approached the High Court challenging the auction conducted in 1965. They said they were minors at the time of auction. They said the government had auctioned 14 acres and 58 guntas of their ancestral property, whereas Rama Goud had mortgaged only 11 acres and 25 guntas.

Meanwhile, they also cleared the Excise arrears of Rs.3,400 on March 30, 1996, when the excise department came up with the offer to write off the interest and penalties if the principal amount was paid, and agreed to restore the agricultural land and house to them. They submitted that they came to know of the fraud committed by the government only in 1995 and questioned the auction.

After conflicting judgments by various benches of the Telangana High Court in writ petitions in 2008, appeals were filed before a division bench. The division bench of the High Court comprising Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice K. Lakshman recently cancelled the auction and transactions made upon the property.

The court said that it was a fraud played by the government authorities in auctioning the land and thereafter. First of all, the authorities did not issue notice to the land owner before auctioning the land parcel. Though the auction was done in 1965, the record showed that the name of Rama Goud continued in revenue records both in the pattadar and possessor columns till 1973.

The bench faulted the procedure followed by the government to hand over the properties for only `60. Moreover, it had not paid the amount to the excise department towards rental arrears of Rama Goud, who had died in the meanwhile. With that, the excise officials permitted the legal heirs of Rama Goud to pay the arrears. The court also refuted the contentions of the revenue authorities.

Now, the properties will be re-delivered to the legal heirs of Rama Goud.
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An Iditarod sled dog that escaped during this year's race in Alaska has been found alive and healthy three months later after covering 150 miles.

The dog, called Leon, was a a part of French musher Sebastien Dos Santos Borges' team, and got loose while the team was camped out at a checkpoint in the town of Ruby - roughly the halfway point of the 1,000 mile course.

Locals in the town of McGrath, a city about 150 miles south, began spotting the hound hanging around in May.

Leon was eventually captured and appeared to be in perfect health despite the brutal conditions.

Dos Santos Borges returned to Alaska to reunite with Leon, and the pair are due to return to France once the dog receives his medical certifications to fly.

Musher Sebastien Dos Santos Borges planting a kiss on Leon when they were reunited on Saturday

Leon and Sebastien Dos Santos Borges reunited in Alaska on Saturday. Leon survived alone in the Alaskan wilderness for three months this spring

This year's Iditarod sled dog race began on March 6 just north of Anchorage, Alaska.

Dos Santos Borges, Leon, and the rest of the 12-dog team, were camped out at a checkpoint in the town of Ruby, just under 500 miles into the race on March 12.

He had swapped out the race collar Leon was wearing for a looser collar, according to race officials, and the dog managed to slip out of the collar and escape.

The musher was forced to leave Leon behind as he carried on with the race. Severe weather would force him to scratch days later, just 22 miles from the finish line in Nome, Alaska.

Dos Santos Borges posted this photo of him and his sled dogs under describing what it was like to have to leave Leon behind during the race

Dos Santos Borges spent the months that Leon was missing searching for the dog. Above, he and another of his dogs in a spotter plane hired to try to find Leon

A missing poster for Leon. The poster described the three-year-old husky as being 'very shy'

Over the following weeks, Dos Santos Borges and Iditarod authorities searched the Alaskan tundra for Leon, even chartering small aircraft to look for the dog and signs of his presence.

In a number of emotional Facebook posts, Dos Santos Borges documented the search process, and talked about the emotional decision of leaving the dog behind.

'One thing is for sure, I'll never stop looking for my dog,' he wrote in one post, 'The Iditarod committee has certified us that they would, finally, conduct research with regular reports. I'm waiting to see... but at this moment, it's important, like a hitch, to move on.'

'Go forward with, I think, benevolence, altruism and a positive attitude to find, all together, my little Leon...'

A poster circulated offered a reward for information leading to Leon's safe return.

'Leon is very shy. Please do not chase' the poster read.

Dos Santos Borges and Leon reunited in Alaska on Saturday. Leon was found to be in good health after three months in the harsh Alaskan tundra

Leon, Dos Santos Borges, and friends toasting Leon's safe return. Dos Santos Borges toasts with a cup of water in one hand on Leon's behalf

Three months later, residents in the city of McGrath - about 150 miles south of Ruby - reported to Race Director Mark Nordman that Leon had been spotted hanging around a cabin on May 31.

The resident of the cabin and a local dog musher began leaving food out for Leon, and the husky was finally captured on Saturday.

Leon was reportedly in good health, alert, and 'understandably skinny but seemingly healthy,' said Iditarod spokesperson Shannon Markley.

Leon and Dos Santos Borges were reunited on Saturday. The musher posted pictures of the pair together.

'Leon is with me ! A great story, a beautiful story of love and friendship between all the people who helped, who thought very hard about this reunion,' he wrote on Facebook, 'Thank you! Life is gooooood !'
Three people were killed after multiple gunmen fired shots outside a bar in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Police say at least 14 people were shot in the 2100 block of McCallie Avenue Sunday morning. Three others were struck by cars as they fled for safety.

Two of the deceased were killed in the shooting. The other died after being hit by a car. Several victims were hospitalized with life-threatening injuries.

The attack comes just hours after multiple shooters fired into a large crowd of weekend revelers in downtown Philadelphia, killing three and injuring 11.

It is also the latest in a string of vicious shootings that have ripped across the US in recent weeks, including one at a supermarket in Buffalo, New York, a hospital in Tulsa, Oklahoma and at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas.

Three people were killed after multiple gunmen fired shots outside a bar in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Investigators are stationed in the 2100 block of McCallie Avenue after multiple shooters opened fired outside Mary's Bar & Grill around 2.45am Sunday

The Chattanooga Police Department investigate the scene following a shooting early Sunday morning

Two shootings broke out in downtown Chattanooga overnight

Police responded to Mary's Bar & Grill on McCallie Avenue after shots rang out around 2.45am Sunday.

Investigators are unsure what prompted the gunfire, but note at least 17 people, including one juvenile, were victims of the deadly incident.

It is unclear if the juvenile is among the injured or deceased.

A manhunt is underway for the shooters, however police cannot confirm exactly how many gunmen they are searching for, WTVC reported.

The area surrounding the bar was blocked off with crime scene tape and is expected to remain closed for several hours while investigation is underway.

Police Chief Celeste Murphy told reporters the shooting is likely an isolated incident and they don't believe there is any ongoing threat to the community.

Police say the shooting is likely an isolated incident and don't believe there is any ongoing threat to the community

Police say 14 people were shot and three others struck by cars as they ran away to seek shelter from the gunfire

Two of the deceased were killed in the shooting. The other died after being hit by a car

Several victims were hospitalized with life-threatening injuries

A Chattanooga resident who appeared to driving past the bar when shots were fired posted footage of the incident on Facebook.

More than 20 shots ring out in the short 11-second clip, prompting the woman to duck for cover in her car.

Tabby, a Chattanooga resident, (pictured) posted video of the shooting on Facebook. More than 20 shots ring out in the short 11-second clip

Other locals are seen running past her vehicle as they tried to escape the barrage of bullets.

'Lawwwd we almost died,' the woman, whose name on Facebook is Tabby Tab, captioned the video.

In another post, she referred to the shooting as 'stupid a** s**t.'

Another video, shared online by resident Laquena Donegan, showed a large crowd and several vehicles were gathered in the streets at the time of the shooting.

The revelers appeared to be socializing amongst themselves, with those in the cars revving their engines, when shots unexpectedly rang out.

Donegan kept recording during the aftermath of the shooting, which saw bargoers frantically trying to locate their loved ones. At least one man was seen lying on the ground while bystanders tried to help him.

Police allege the incident is not connected to a shooting that broke out just hours earlier about three miles down the road, according to the TV station.

Three people were injured when a shooter opened fire on Fort Street, near the Chattanooga Convention Center and Finley Stadium, around 11pm Saturday.

The nature of their injuries remains unknown at this time.

Another video shared online showed a large crowd was gathered in the streets when shots rang out

Several stationary cars lined the road before the gunmen opened fire on the group

Donegan kept recording during the aftermath of the shooting, which saw bargoers frantically trying to locate their loved ones. At least one man was seen lying on the ground while bystanders tried to help him

The area surrounding the bar was blocked off with crime scene tape and is expected to remain closed for several hours while investigation is underway

Investigators are seen collecting evidence at the scene of Sunday's fatal shooting

The shootings come the weekend after six teens were wounded during an exchange of gunfire in a downtown Chattanooga business district.

The victims- two 15-year-old girls, three 15-year-old boys, and one 13-year-old boy - were shot on Saturday, May 28 around 11.45pm the Cherry Street area.

The shooting involved two groups of people that appeared to have been advancing toward each other in an altercation, when two individuals in one group pulled guns and fired at the other group.

Authorities believe one or more teens were targeted, but that some victims were hit unintentionally.

The Chattanooga incidents followed recent shootings that killed 10 people at a grocery store in Buffalo, New York; 21 victims at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas; and four people at a medical building in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

There have been at least 240 mass shootings in the United States so far this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive, a nonprofit research group. It defines a mass shooting as one in which at least four people are shot, excluding the shooter.

The shootings come the weekend after six teens were wounded during an exchange of gunfire in a downtown Chattanooga business district. Police are pictured at the scene of the May 28 shooting

The shooting involved two groups of people that appeared to have been advancing toward each other in an altercation, when two individuals in one group pulled guns and fired at the other group. Officers are pictured investigating the Cherry Street shooting on May 28

Philadelphia police officers saw 'several active shooters' firing shots into a large crowd late Saturday night.

One officer reported being 'within about 10 to 15 yards' of one of the gunmen, police said. That officer fired at the suspect, prompting them to flee the scene. It is unclear if the gunman was hit.

Two handguns were recovered at the scene, including one with an extended magazine. No arrests have been made and Philadelphia police are actively searching for the shooters.

Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney described the shooting as 'horrendous, despicable and senseless.'

Meanwhile, gun safety advocates are pushing the U.S. government to take stronger measures to curb gun violence.

U.S. President Joe Biden on Thursday called on Congress to ban assault weapons, expand background checks and implement other gun control measures to address the string of mass shootings.

Philadelphia police officers saw 'several active shooters' firing shots into a large crowd late Saturday night

Philadelphia Police investigators work the scene of a fatal overnight shooting on Sunday
The Red Arrows have cancelled their planned flypast of Buckingham Palace as part of the Platinum Procession as a result of low cloud conditions.

The Royal Air Forces' aerobatic display team was set to perform another flyover streaming the iconic red, white and blue smoke from their tails to commemorate the Queen's 70th year on the throne.

But a classically overcast British summer's day scuppered the display.

The Red Arrows did however put on a spectacular performance on Thursday, when nine of its aircraft screamed over The Mall and Buckingham Palace accompanied by some 71 military aircraft - including the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight - to kick off the Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

Some 10,000 people including a cast of 6,000 performers are involved in staging today's carnival route from Horse Guards, along Whitehall to Admiralty Arch and down The Mall to Buckingham Palace, echoing Her Majesty's 1953 coronation procession.

There were fears the Queen may not appear at the procession today after she pulled out of two Jubilee events amid concerns for her health.

But the Royal Standard was pictured flying above the Palace earlier this afternoon and the monarch emerged on the Palace balcony to greet hordes of delighted fans.

A classically overcast British summer's day has scuppered the Red Arrows' planned flypast today (Red Arrows flypast on Jun 02 pictured)

The Red Arrows have cancelled their planned flypast of Buckingham Palace as part of the Platinum Procession as a result of low cloud conditions (view from Red Arrows cockpit shows their flypast on Thursday to kick off jubilee celebrations)

The RAF Red Arrows blasted over the streets of London trailing red, white and blue smoke

Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, their children George, Charlotte and Louis are among those seated in the royal box alongside Boris and Carrie Johnson, Keir Starmer and Sadiq Khan to watch the incredible two-mile procession through central London.

Charles, Camilla, William and Kate, and other members of the royal family are all expected to appear on the Buckingham Palace balcony at the end of the two-and-a-half-hour procession.

The famous red, white and blue smoke discharged by the Red Arrows is made by shooting diesel with a special dye into the BAE Systems T1 Hawk aircraft's engine.

The Red Arrows - formally known as the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team - have begun their 58th season.

Thursday's fly past represented one of the only times this year the team will fly as a nine-ship formation. For most events this year they will have just seven jets in the air.

Original golden coronation carriage with hologram of the Queen is seen during the Platinum Pageant on June 05, 2022 in London, England

Some 10,000 people including a cast of 6,000 performers are involved in staging today's carnival route from Horse Guards, along Whitehall to Admiralty Arch and down The Mall to Buckingham Palace, echoing Her Majesty's 1953 coronation procession

Original golden coronation carriage with hologram of the Queen is seen progressing down The Mall

The Red Arrows are due to perform at more than 60 events this season across Britain, with visits to France, Denmark, Ireland, Jersey and Guernsey.

The Red Arrows were accompanied on Thursday by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, which included a Lancaster bomber, three Spitfires and a pair of Hurricanes.

Army, Royal Navy and RAF helicopters including Chinooks, Apaches, Merlins and Wildcats also flew over the palace.

A squadron of RAF Typhoons later screamed overhead, flying in formation of the number 70 to mark the 70th anniversary of the Queen's coronation.
Democrat Senator Chris Murphy on Sunday rejected the idea of getting President Joe Biden involved in his chamber's bipartisan negotiations on gun reform following a spate of devastating mass shootings - but said change was 'closer than ever before.'

'I think the Senate needs to do this ourselves. I have talked to the White House every single day since these negotiations began. But, right now, the Senate needs to handle these negotiations,' he said on CNN's State of the Union.

It comes as Senators on both sides of the aisle are expressing a new optimism that years of gridlock on firearms legislation could finally be broken.

Republican Senator Pat Toomey, who co-led a bipartisan effort to expand background checks in 2013, said he hoped any proposal that comes to the floor could get the support of 'at least half' of his caucus.

Both Murphy and Toomey are part of a small group of senators in talks to produce a proposal for the Senate to vote on by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer's stated deadline of this week.

Elected officials have been under renewed pressure to act on gun control after 19 elementary school children and two teachers were slaughtered in Uvalde, Texas late last month - barely a week after a white extremists shot 10 people dead at a supermarket in a predominantly-black neighborhood of Buffalo, New York.

In both instances, the teenage shooters used AR-15 assault rifles.

Murphy signaled on CNN that the working group may not cobble out the legislation by Schumer's deadline but said he had 'never been part of negotiations as serious as these.'

Democrat Senator Chris Murphy is one of the lawmakers leading the bipartisan talks. The Connecticut Democrat was in the House of Representatives when a gunman killed 20 children and six adult staffers at his district's Sandy Hook Elementary School

The Connecticut Democrat was in the House of Representatives when a gunman killed 20 children and six adult staffers at his district's Sandy Hook Elementary School.

'There are more Republicans at the table talking about changing our gun laws and investing in mental health than at any time since Sandy Hook,' Murphy said.

'Now, I have also been part of many failed negotiations in the past. So I'm sober-minded about our chances. We're talking about a meaningful change in our gun laws, a major investment in mental health, perhaps some money for school security, that would make a difference.'

Among the potential initiatives he listed were red flag laws - which many Republican Senators outright oppose - improvements to the federal background check system, as well as 'a handful of other items that will make a difference.'

'Can we get there by the end of next week, as Senator Schumer has requested? I don't know,' Murphy conceded.

'But as late as last night, we were engaged in conversations about trying to put a package together, because I think Republicans realize how scared parents and kids are across this country.'

And suggesting there was still a timeline in place, Murphy said: 'We need to make decisions on whether or not we have a sustainable package in the next five days.'

Meanwhile Pennsylvania Republican Toomey said his party was looking for 'a place to land that is consistent with the Second Amendment.'

Republican Senator Pat Toomey cautioned that any proposal brought to the floor had to be 'realistic,' stating his hope that it could get support from at least half of his conference

'My hope is we'll get at least half of the Republican conference. That should be the goal here. We're going to have to be realistic about what can do that,' he said on CBS News' Face The Nation.

'Senator Murphy alluded to the idea that it's not going to be everything. Certainly the Democrats would like. We'll- we'll see where it ends up.'

Like Murphy Toomey expressed some support for expanded background checks and red flag laws, but cast the latter as more of a choice for individual states - something other Republicans signaling openness to gun reform have also stated. However, they left the door open to talks on how the federal government could incentivize the change.

As for background checks, he recalled his work with West Virginia Democrat Sen. Joe Manchin on an expansion of the system which ultimately did not pass.

'I certainly hope we're going to have an expansion of background checks. Senator Manchin and I have been working on this for a long time. We've tried to establish that at least for commercial sales of firearms, there ought to be a background check,' Toomey said.

He added that striking the right balance was more of a 'moving target' this time.

'We're still in discussions, and we are still trying to figure out exactly what mechanism is going to enable us to get the votes that we would need. So I can't be precise about that,' Toomey said.

A woman prays for the shooting victims of Robb Elementary School in front of a makeshift memorial outside the Uvalde County Courthouse in Texas, United States on May 28

While the Senate had been under pressure to act on surging gun violence, the House is getting ready for a House vote this week on its own proposal, which passed the Judiciary Committee late last week after an emotional 10-hour markup session.

Biden for his part called on Congress to pass lasting gun reform in an emotional speech on Thursday last week.

'The question now is: What will the Congress do?' the president questioned before touting the Democrat-led House's proposals.

Turning his attention to the gridlocked upper chamber, Biden said: 'This time, we have to take the time to do something. And this time, its time for the Senate to do something.'

'But, as we know, in order to do any-  get anything done in the Senate, we need a minimum of 10 Republican senators,' he continued.

'I support the bipartisan efforts that include a small group of Democrats and Republican senators trying to find a way. But my God, the fact that the majority of the Senate Republicans dont want any of these proposals even to be debated or come up for a vote, I find unconscionable.'
At least 50 people are feared dead after gunmen opened fire on worshippers and detonated explosives at a Catholic church in southwestern Nigeria on Sunday, officials said.

The violence at St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo town, in Ondo State, happened during the morning service on Pentecost Sunday in a rare attack in the southwest of the African country.

While much of Nigeria has struggled with security issues including Islamic extremism, Ondo is widely known as one of Nigeria's most peaceful states.

No group claimed responsibility for the attack and the motives and the death toll were not immediately clear, but President Muhammadu Buhari condemned the 'heinous killing of worshippers'.

Videos appearing to be from the scene of the attack showed church worshippers lying in pools of blood while people around them wailed.

This photograph was allegedly taken in St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo town, in Ondo State, in the aftermath of the attack

Ondo state governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu said in a statement it was a 'vile and satanic attack' and appealed to the security forces to track down the assailants.

In a tweet, he added: 'Our hearts are heavy. Our peace and tranquility have been attacked by the enemies of the people.'

Local politician Ogunmolasuyi Oluwole, who visited the scene and also the hospital where many of the wounded were being treated, said among the dead were many children.

State police spokeswoman Ibukun Odunlami said the gunmen attacked the church with explosives, leaving an undisclosed number of worshippers dead.

'It's still premature to say exactly how many people were killed. But many worshippers lost their lives while others were injured in the attack,' she said.

Adelegbe Timileyin, who represents the Owo area in Nigeria's lower legislative chamber, said the presiding priest was abducted as well.

No group claimed responsibility for the attack and the motives and the death toll were not immediately clear, but President Muhammadu Buhari (above) condemned the 'heinous killing of worshippers'

A witness, who gave his name as Abayomi, said at least 20 worshippers had died in the attack.

'I was passing through the area when I heard a loud explosion and gunshots inside the church,' he continued.

He said he saw at least five gunmen on the church premises before he ran away for safety.

Gun and bomb attacks are rare in Ondo state, but Nigeria's military is battling a 12-year-old jihadist insurgency in the northeast, kidnapping gangs in the northwest and separatist agitation in the southeast.

Nigeria's security forces did not immediately respond to enquiries as to how the attack occurred or if there are any leads about suspects. Owo is about 215 miles east of Lagos.

'In the history of Owo, we have never experienced such an ugly incident,' said lawmaker Oluwole. 'This is too much.'
Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis peeked through a window at Buckingham Palace shortly before the Queen appeared on the balcony at the end of her Jubilee celebrations.

Footage showed Charlotte pull back a curtain, with her younger brother at her side, as the pair were seen trying to catch a glimpse of the crowds gathered outside.

However, their views were then cut short by an unknown individual promptly closing the curtain.

Moments later, the Queen stepped out onto the palace balcony for less than three minutes, in her first public appearance since Platinum Jubilee celebrations began on Thursday.

The monarch, 96, was greeted by roars from thousands of spectators gathered on The Mall as Britain's longest-serving head of state was helped onto the balcony by Prince Charles, Camilla, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, George, Charlotte and Louis.

Footage showed Charlotte pull back a curtain, with her younger brother at her side, as the pair were seen trying to catch a glimpse of the crowds gathered outside

However, their views were then cut short by an unknown individual promptly closing the curtain

Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis look out the window during the Platinum Pageant

Moments later, the Queen stepped out onto the palace balcony for less than three minutes, in her first public appearance since Platinum Jubilee celebrations began on Thursday

The royals then joined the crowd in a spine-tingling chorus of God Save The Queen shortly after 5pm, bringing the the Jubilee celebrations to a close.

It comes as Prince Louis showed off his star power again today while watching the fourth day of Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

The four-year-old delighted crowds on Thursday as he stood next to his great-grandmother The Queen with his hands covering his ears amid the roaring cries of the public.

Today, as he sat next to the Duchess of Cambridge in the Royal Box at the Platinum Jubilee Pageant in London, he reacted with similar wonder at all the fuss.

At times, he was pictured cocking a snook, put his hands over his mother's mouth, waved his arms in the air and stood on his seat for a better view.

He later moved across to his other relatives and sat on his grandfather Prince Charles' lap, who pointed out the spectacles in the parade.

The monarch, 96, was greeted by roars from thousands of spectators gathered on The Mall as Britain's longest-serving head of state was helped onto the balcony by Prince Charles, Camilla, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, George, Charlotte and Louis

Prince Charles, Queen Elizabeth and Prince George stand on the balcony during the Platinum Pageant

Prince George, Prince William, Princess Charlotte, Prince Louis and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge stand on the balcony

The prince pulled more than a few faces as he watched the pageant from the Royal box with his mother, the Duchess of Cambridge

He placed his hand over his mother's mouth at one point while watching the pageant

Behind the little prince sat Mike Tindall who at one point, entertained the boy with funny faces to keep him amused.

The former England rugby player Tindall, sitting in the row behind, gestured and pointed to his eyes that he was keeping watch over him, as Kate chuckled at their interaction.

Kate stroked Louis's shoulder before he got out of his seat and walked to his left.

The four-year-old prince then sat on his grandfather Prince Charles's lap, who rocked him from side to side.

Behind the little prince sat Mike Tindall who entertained the boy with funny faces to keep him amused

Prince Louis joined his grandfather, who pointed out some of the spectacles on display in the parade

He was then seen back with his mother Kate.

The prince had delighted royal fans by stealing the show on the balcony on Thursday after Trooping the Colour.

He let out a howl and covered his ears during the flypast, and his 'Gan Gan' the Queen sweetly interacted with her great-grandson, leaning down to chat to him and point out the planes.
An Uvalde funeral worker rushed toward Robb Elementary School after seeing a gunman enter the building - but said cops prevented him from interfering.

Cody Briseno said he and a co-worker were about eight to 10 feet away from where 18-year-old Salvador Ramos crashed his pick-up truck in a ditch on May 24, and he initially sought to offer the teenager help.

But as he realized Ramos had an AR-15 rifle and had an 'evil look' while walking towards the elementary school, Briseno said he decided to run over - watching Ramos enter the building through an unlocked door.

As he ran over to the school, though, Briseno said, a cop asked him where he was going.

'I'm going in and try to stop them,' Briseno remembers telling the officer. 'I told him that [Ramos is] already inside the school.'

But the cop told him to stay back and shut up, NBC News reports.

Briseno did not specify which department the officer worked for.

Cody Briseno said he tried to run toward Robb Elementary School after he saw 18-year-old Salvador Ramos go inside with an AR-15 but was stopped by an unnamed police officer

Briseno said he and a coworker saw Ramos crash his pick-up truck into a ditch outside of the school and initially offered to help the teen

He has since had to bury some of the 19 children and two adults who died in the massacre, as an employee of Hillcrest Memorial Funeral Home

Briseno said he and a coworker were outside when they saw Ramos crash a black pick-up truck that morning.

'I see him crawling out the passenger window,' Briseno recounted to NBC News. 'I tell him, "Hey man, are you OK? Are you alright?"'

Salvador Ramos, 18, (pictured) stormed Robb Elementary School on May 24 and was inside the school building for 77 minutes before police reached the locked door with a key and killed him

But as he was offering help, Briseno said, Ramos turned back to his truck, from where he pulled out an AR-15 assault rifle.

'At that moment, he looks back at me with this evil look, and I see that rifle,' Briseno said, adding that he then warned his co-worker that Ramos has a gun.

They both took off running, when Briseno fell and saw Ramos attaching a magazine to his rifle, he said.

'He was shooting at both of us,' Briseno said. ' I could just hear ricochet.

'He was aiming that barrel right at me and my coworker.'

At that point, Briseno said he called his wife to bring him his own gun as he charged toward Robb Elementary School, where he was eventually stopped.

Ever since, Briseno said, he has felt guilty as he has had to bury some of the 19 children and two teachers at Hillcrest Funeral Home - which is directly across the street from Robb Elementary School.

'My intention was to stop him, and I feel guilty, man, because I couldn't stop him,' he told NBC News.

'It always plays in my head,' Briseno said, when 'I loaded those caskets down.'

A girl was seen crying outside the Willie de Leon Civic Center on May 24 as family members waited for information about their loved ones

Community members visited a memorial for the victims of the Robb Elementary School shooting on May 27

A makeshift memorial has been set up for the 19 children and two children at the school

An aerial photo shows people visiting another memorial in the Uvalde town square

The astonishing details come as the Texas Department of Public Safety continues to investigate the Uvalde Police Department's response to the devastating school shooting.

Authorities say Ramos was inside the building for well over an hour before heroic Border Patrol agents reached the door with a key and killed him.

Steven McCraw, head of the Texas Department of Public Safety, said in the aftermath that school police chief Pete Arredondo - who was the acting incident commander during the massacre - declined to send cops into the building at the time because he believed the shooting had turned into a hostage situation.

McCraw admitted during a press briefing last Friday that waiting to take Ramos down 'was the wrong decision.'

State Senator Roland Gutierrez, who has publicly criticized law enforcement's response to the mass shooting, also revealed on Thursday that Arredondo was not carrying a radio during the shooting and was never informed that children had been calling 911 from inside the building.

'Uvalde PD was the one receiving the 911 calls for 45 minutes while officers were sitting in a hallway, while 19 officers were sitting in a hallway for 45 minutes,' Gutierrez said during Thursday's press briefing.

The legislator said the fact that the calls were going to the city police but were not communicated to Arredondo was a 'system failure' and claimed the school police chief was not given all the necessary information when he opted against an immediate confrontation with Ramos.

Authorities have not yet disclosed how Arredondo, a Uvalde local, was communicating with other law enforcement officials at the scene.

Authorities say school police chief Pete Arredondo (pictured) declined to send cops into the building at the time because he believed the shooting had turned into a hostage situation

Cops waited outside the school for a total of 77 minutes as Ramos continued shooting. Officers are seen here investigating the scene following the mass shooting

The Uvalde school board announced at its meeting on Friday it would not fire Arredondo

Still, the Uvalde Independent School District declined to fire Arredondo at its board meeting on Friday - the first since the massacre.

Superintendent Hal Harrell told meeting attendees he was 'eager' for the several investigations launched into law enforcement's response to the shooting to 'run their course,' The Texas Tribune reported.

Harrell's remark implied the school could still take disciplinary action against Arredondo, who has been considered a cowardice 'man in hiding,' pending the results of the investigations.

He also told concerned parents that students would 'never' return to the Texas elementary school.

Parents who tried to rush into the school to rescue their kids have also expressed outrage over being handcuffed and restrained outside while police let Ramos continue to evoke terror inside the building.

The board is scheduled to meet again on June 20. Parents are hopeful the next meeting will better address their concerns.
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A pride-month event at a Dallas gay bar inviting children to take the stage alongside drag queens was met with outrage and encouragement alike over the weekend.

The event, titled 'Drag The Kids To Pride,' was held at the Mr. Misster gay nightclub in North Dallas on Saturday morning.

The event invited parents to bring their kids along for a morning drag show, and featured children dancing alongside men dressed in drag beneath a pink neon sign reading 'It's not gonna lick itself.'

Outraged protesters arrived to picket the event, while the shows promoters and participants defended the day as nothing more than an opportunity for people to share joy about who they are.

Three children on stage at the gay nightclub Mr. Misster in Dallas, Texas, during their 'Drag the Kids to Pride' event on Saturday

Protesters outside of Mr. Misster on Saturday. The demonstrators accused the parents in line of enabling democrats to endorse pedophilia

The controversial event comes as debates rage across the country about how gender identity and children should interact.

Photos and footage from the event showed adults sitting on stools surrounding a long narrow runway stage in the middle of the room.

As parents sipped on drinks with kids seated at their side, drag queens in dresses and glittered leotards danced along the stage, at times inviting the children to walk down the runway with them.

The drag queens snatched dollar bills from children's outstretched hands, all beneath the glow of a pink neon sign reading 'It's not gonna lick itself.'

Kids danced alongside drag queens beneath this large neon sign at the event at Mr. Misster on Saturday. 'It's not gonna lick itself!' the sign reads in large pink letters

A drag queen can be seen accepting dollar bills from audience members. Children can be seen handing over cash to the performers too

A kid handing over dollar bills to drag performers at the Mr. Misster gay nightclub at a family drag show on Saturday, June 4

An online brochure for the event read 'Mr. Misster's Drag The Kids To Pride Drag Show provides the ultimate family friendly pride experience.'

It continued: 'Do you want to hit the stage with the queens? We have FIVE limited spots for young performers to take the stage solo, or with a queen of their choosing! Come hangout with the Queens and enjoy this unique pride experience, fit for guests of all ages!'

The event was met with vitriol by some, who came out in protest and called after parents in line with their children, accusing them of 'grooming' and endangering their kids.

'I only have one question, why do you want to put an axe-wound in between your son's legs?' one protester says through a bullhorn.

A woman responds 'We've got kids here, please go away.'

'That's the point,' the man on the bullhorn says.

A drag queen performing at the 'Drag Your Kids to Pride' event at a Dallas gay night club on Saturday, June 4. Children can be seen sitting on stools lining the runway

A drag queen performing at Mr. Misster on Saturday as children in the audience look on. Kids could be seen handing dollar bills to the performers

The banner for the event's online brochure. Organizers characterized it as an opportunity for people to share joy about who they are

That interaction quickly devolved into the protestor accusing the parents in line of enabling democrats to endorse pedophilia, and a woman screaming 'You're scaring children, shut the f**k up! Shut the f**k up! Shame on you! Shame on you!' as children in line cower and hold hands over their ears.

One woman protesting says she saw a poster for the event and was emboldened to come out and protest.

'I live in this community,' the woman told ABC 8, 'I have for several years. I don't believe that I should be seeing signs advertising for children to be dancing on stage with men in thongs and in inappropriate clothing and makeup. I do not in any way condone the behavior that these people are engaging in, but what drags me out here is it's kids now.'

A representative for the bar however said that the event provided a safe and family friendly space to celebrate people being who they are.

A protester confronts people waiting outside of the Mr. Misster gay bar on Saturday after the 'Drag Your Kids to Pride' event at the nightclub. Police arrived to maintain order

Supporters of the event unfurl a pride flag in front of a protester outside of Mr. Misster. The event took place on June 4, just as pride month kicked off across the country

'We are more than happy to open our doors to celebrate Pride in a family friendly, safe environment, separate from our normal operations of 2 p.m. - 2 a.m. on Saturdays because we believe that everyone should have a space to be able to celebrate who they are. Mr. Misster is a place where everyone is welcome to feel accepted, safe and included.'

'We had a group of protestors outside yelling homophobic threats, transphobic remarks and vile accusations at these children and parents. It is so sad to see that in 2022, there are people that still want to protests others celebrating who they are, but our staff and wonderful officers helped keep us safe and kept the protestors at bay.'

The representative for the bar also noted that the raised money for a youth LGBTQ+ organization in the community.

Controversy around the event comes as Pride Month kicks of in the US, and as debates swirl across the country about the role of gender-identity exposure and education to children.

In March, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed into a parental rights bill that bans teachers from giving classroom instruction on 'sexual orientation' or 'gender identity' in kindergarten through third grade.

In April, a Tennessee lawmaker said he would 'burn' banned books if he could, as books about gender identity top the lists of banned titles at schools across the country.

In May, a Florida mother sued her daughter's school after teachers created a 'transgender support plan' for her daughter without asking for parental consent.

This month, even Pizza Hut was pulled into the debate after it promoted a children's book that featured a little boy who dresses in drag.

And just this week, DeSantis moved to ban transition therapies for children and revoke Medicaid support for trans adults' treatments in Florida.

That includes suspending access to 'puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones and surgeries'.

'Florida must do more to protect children from politics-based medicine,' wrote state surgeon general Joseph Lapado, who DeSantis appointed to his post in February.

'Otherwise, children and adolescents in our state will continue to face a substantial risk of long-term harm.'
The Duchess and Duke of Cambridge have been seen in London today greeting Royalists out marking the Jubilee's last day.

Kate Middleton, 40, was spotted in Kensington, just a short walk from her London residency of Kensington Palace, at a street party with her husband Prince William, 39.

She is one of an up to an estimated 18 million people who took part in an afternoon lunch outside to mark the Queen's 70 year reign.

The Duchess was dressed in a blue dress with white polka dots In Kensington which she later changed out of when she appeared at the Royal Box in pink on the fourth day of the Jubilee weekend.

One attendee, Sandra Duggan, said it was a 'lovely surprise' to see William and Kate at St Helen's Church Jubilee Big Lunch in north Kensington.

Another said it was 'the perfect Royal ending to the Platinum Jubilee Weekend', adding he felt 'incredibly honoured' to meet the Cambridges.

'As a new British Citizen they spent such lovely and welcoming words and we will treasure this moment forever,' he added.

The Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton is seen visiting the local community in Kensington

Prince William can be seen laughing behind while Kate sits serenly with other members of the public at a street party in Kensington

The Duchess looks on as she talks to residence in Kensington

Kate Middleton is seen greeting the local community including a woman in a union jack hat as others sit around on table and chairs having their street party lunch

Kate Middleton delights the crowds in a simple blue and white dress with white heels in Kensington

Kate and William pictured with a member of the public

Kate speaking to a child who was enjoying the Jubilee lunch in the street (left) and (right) the Duchess of Cambridge appears as Prince William talks to someone in the background

The Duchess of Cambridge also appeared on the Buckingham Palace balcony with The Queen, Prince Charles, Camilla, her children and husband as Her Majesty, 96, told those on the Mall she was 'humbled and deeply touched' by those taking to the streets in her honour.

While the Royal couple were out in Kensington, they were pictured sitting down to lunch in the street on tables and chairs near Kensington Memorial Park.

As well as speaking to lots of members of the public, the couple also moved through the crowds as they paid their surprise visit.

One royal fan, who was lucky enough to pose with William and Kate, said on social media they were 'incredibly honoured' to have such 'lovely words' with both of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

Later in the day, The Queen stepped out onto the Buckingham Palace balcony for less than three minutes, in her first public appearance since Platinum Jubilee celebrations began on Thursday.

The monarch, 96, was greeted by roars from thousands of spectators gathered on The Mall as Britain's longest-serving head of state was helped onto the balcony by Prince Charles, Camilla, Kate, William, George, Charlotte and Louis.

The royals then joined the crowd in a spine-tingling chorus of God Save The Queen shortly after 5pm, bringing the the Jubilee celebrations to a close.
Beijing has hit back at Australia after the country slammed a Chinese fighter jet for intercepting one of its spy planes in a 'very dangerous' mid-air incident with a graphic depiction showing just how close the two planes came.

It was announced on Sunday that an RAAF P-8A Poseidon aircraft was carrying out maritime surveillance in the South China Sea when it was intercepted by a Chinese J-16 fighter aircraft on May 26.

Defence Minister Richard Marles blasted it as a 'dangerous manoeuvre' while Prime Minister Anthony Albanese raised his concerns directly with China.

A depiction of the incident showed the J-16 narrowly cutting in front of the P-8A and releasing aluminium strips that went into the plane's engine.

The Global Times, which is the Chinese Communist Party's mouthpiece, published an opinion piece accusing Australia of acting like a 'little bully'.

The rising tensions between the two countries prompted Mr Albanese to make a trip to Jakarta to meet with Indonesian president Joko Widodo on Monday with the pair set to discuss pressing issues such as trade, climate change and regional security.

It was announced on Sunday that an RAAF P-8A Poseidon aircraft was carrying out maritime surveillance in the South China Sea when it was intercepted by a Chinese J-16 fighter aircraft on May 26 (pictured, stock image of a P-8 Poseidon)

Defence Minister Richard Marles blasted it as a 'dangerous manoeuvre' by the J-16 fighter jet while Prime Minister Anthony Albanese raised his concerns directly with the Chinese government (pictured, stock image of a J-16 fighter jet)

A graphic depiction of the 'dangerous manoeuvre' carried out by the J-16 plane (top) as the P-8 (bottom) flew over the South China Sea

The Global Times claimed the Australian government had failed to address several questions about the operation in the South China Sea.

'For example, where exactly in the South China Sea is the area in which the incident occurred?' it read.

'How far is it from the Chinese islands and reefs in the region? What is their purpose here? Furthermore, what did the Australian military aircraft do before the intercept?'

The media outlet said it was the latest claim made by Australia in its campaign of 'groundless' accusations against China.

On February 17, the Australian Defence Force (ADF) said a Chinese navy vessel directed a laser at a P-8A Poseidon as it flew over Australia's northern approaches.

The incident was slammed and the ADF warned it could have endangered the safety and lives of their personnel.

The Global Times claimed there was evidence proving the P-8A was flying too close to the Chinese vessel and said the Australian military had become a 'professional for blackmail'.

The Global Times said it was the latest claim made by Australia in its campaign of 'groundless' accusations against China

'This time, Marles also pretended to be 'the weak' and said in front of a reporter's microphone that Australia will not be deterred by China's intimidation,' the article read.

'This is obviously a tone favored by American and Western journalists, and Australian politicians are well versed in it and pick what they want to hear.'

AUSTRALIA VERSUS CHINA TRADE WAR In October 2020, China imposed informal bans on Australian cotton and coal. A month later, Australian sugar, barley, lobsters, wine, copper and timber were added to the list. Six meat processors were banned from exporting beef to China. In December 2020, Australia lodged a complaint with the World Trade Organization over China's 80.5 per cent tariffs on its barley exports. In the filing, Australia claimed China deviated from WTO rules 26 times. In March 2021, China imposed duties of between 116.2 per cent and 218.4 per cent on Australian wine, making it too expensive for Chinese consumers. This effectively killed the market. Advertisement

The opinion piece said 'Canberra's approach' was 'inappropriate and unwise' as China had 'never posed a threat to Australia'

'Judging from the two recent incidents involving the ship and the aircraft, we need to remind Canberra that Sinophobia does Australia more harm than good,' it read.

'It has been proven time and again that the more "conscientiously" Canberra acts in front of Washington, the more easily the former will become a stepping stone.'

Mr Marles said conducting surveillance over the South China Sea is 'completely within our rights under international law'.

'This is a body of water, which is deeply connected to Australia because of our trade, which goes through there,' he said.

'We have made representations to the Chinese government, but we will not be deterred from engaging in the activities which we are entitled to at international law in the future.'

Mr Marles said the crew was unharmed, they responded professionally to the incident and returned the plane to the base.

'What occurred was that the J-16 aircraft flew very close to the side of the P-8 maritime surveillance aircraft,' he said.

'In flying close to the side, it released flares, the J-16 then accelerated and cut across the nose of the P-8, settling in front of the P-8 at very close distance.

'At that moment, it then released a bundle of chaff which contained small pieces of aluminium, some of which were ingested into the engine of the P-8 aircraft.'

Australian-Chinese relations have struggled since April 2020, when then-prime minister Scott Morrison called for World Health Organisation investigators in Wuhan to have the same powers as UN-backed weapons inspectors.

The WHO was investigating the origin of the Covid-19 pandemic, a virus that effectively forced the world to lock down for two years.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (left) and Defence Minister Richard Marles (right) both criticised an incident between a Chinese fighter jet and an Australian surveillance plane

In November 2020 it emerged that the Chinese embassy in Canberra had drawn up what became known as the 'list of grievances' - 14 black marks that were China's reasons for the bad blood with Australia.

The list included: 'The incessant wanton interference in China's... affairs'; 'outrageous condemnation of the governing party of China'; and 'an unfriendly or antagonistic report on China by media'.

In January, three months before he became prime minister, Mr Albanese said Australia's relationship with China would remain difficult.

'Whoever's in government, it will be a difficult relationship,' he said.

'It will be difficult because the posture of China has changed.'
Zero-carbon road traverses China's largest desert

Xinhua) 16:06, June 05, 2022

* The Tarim Desert Road in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region has been turned into a zero-carbon one, thanks to a transformation project completed Thursday for the irrigation system along its shelterbelt.

* The project is estimated to cut diesel consumption by about 1,000 tonnes and carbon dioxide emissions by 3,410 tonnes per year.

* The zero-carbon road is an example of China's bid to achieve carbon peaking by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2060.

URUMQI, June 4 (Xinhua) -- The Tarim Desert Road, which traverses the Taklimakan Desert in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, has been turned into a zero-carbon one, thanks to a transformation project completed Thursday for the irrigation system along its shelterbelt.

After the transformation project, shrubs along the road are now irrigated with the help of solar power-fueled pumps, instead of diesel ones.

The project is estimated to cut diesel consumption by about 1,000 tonnes and carbon dioxide emissions by 3,410 tonnes per year, according to PetroChina's Tarim oilfield branch, which is in charge of the project.

Aerial photo taken on Aug. 12, 2019 shows the Tarim Desert Road traversing through the Taklimakan Desert and the shelterbelt planted along it in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Gu Yu)

THE GREEN SHIFT

The Tarim Desert Road was completed in 1995. Cutting through China's largest desert, it reduced the distance from the regional capital Urumqi to Hotan by 500 km.

However, it was no easy task to build and maintain a road in the Taklimakan, the world's second-largest shifting-sand desert. In 2005, a 436-km-long shelterbelt was planted on both sides of the road to protect it from being swallowed up by sand, and 109 well stations were built for irrigation.

Eighty-six of the well stations were powered by diesel fuel. They were also unable to provide continuous energy.

A worker checks the drip irrigation facilities outside a well station along the Tarim Desert Road in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, May 29, 2022. (Xinhua)

In January this year, PetroChina's Tarim oilfield branch launched the transformation project, which sought to alter all the diesel power generators into photovoltaic power-driven ones.

In addition to the diesel consumption and CO2 emissions reduced with the help of the project, CO2 captured by the shelterbelt can surpass 20,000 tonnes each year. It can help neutralize the CO2 emitted by passing vehicles, thus making it a zero-carbon road, according to the branch.

The solar power generators are also equipped with energy storage facilities, which ensure a stable power supply and provide the maintenance workers with accessible electricity.

Aerial photo taken on May 29, 2022 shows workers of PetroChina's Tarim oilfield branch installing photovoltaic panels at a well station along the Tarim Desert Road in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (Xinhua)

THE "GREEN-FINGERED"

In addition to meticulous planning by local governments and the Tarim oilfield branch, the desert road has reached its zero-carbon goal thanks to the "green-fingered" researchers and maintenance workers.

Chang Qing's devotion to the road began long before it was built.

In 1991, Chang and her colleagues were dispatched to the Taklimakan Desert. Their task was to select vegetation for the shelterbelt along the road, a key step to protecting it from the raging sandstorms.

Chang, now a senior engineer at the Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography under the Chinese Academy of Sciences, recalled that their lab was a semi-subterranean pit encircled by walls made of mud and hay, and that the salty water was their only means of staying hydrated.

Workers clean photovoltaic panels along the Tarim Desert Road in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, May 29, 2022. (Xinhua)

Through unremitting efforts, researchers in the desert identified new irrigation methods and ideal vegetation for preventing sandstorms and capturing CO2.

Compared with Chang, Xu Bo is a latecomer. When he kicked off his career as a forest ranger in 2004, the shelterbelt was but a batch of saplings.

In the course of his 18 years guarding the shelterbelt, Xu frequently consulted experts for advice and carried out numerous experiments to protect the plants. During this process, he suffered injuries to the eyes, hands and ankles due to the harsh conditions in the Taklimakan.

Workers of PetroChina's Tarim oilfield branch set up photovoltaic equipment along the Tarim Desert Road in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, March 20, 2022. (Xinhua/Gu Yu)

Now, he has become so familiar with his "green wall" that if anything goes wrong with any part of the shelterbelt, he can spot it at a single glance.

Both Chang and Xu are 59 years old and will reach retirement in a year or two. But neither has any intention to put an end to their dedication. "For me, blanketing the desert in green is a romantic cause worthy of lifelong devotion," Chang said.

Aerial photo taken on Aug. 22, 2021 shows heliostats at a photothermal power station in Hami, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Gao Han)

THE GREEN PATH

The zero-carbon road is just another example of China's bid to achieve carbon peaking by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2060.

With abundant new energy resources such as wind and solar energy, Xinjiang is a large-scale national clean energy base.

During the first 10 months last year, Xinjiang's solar and wind power generation amounts grew 22 percent and 25.3 percent year on year to 15.92 billion kWh and 47.09 billion kWh, official data shows.

Aerial photo taken on Aug. 22, 2021 shows a photothermal power station in Hami, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Gao Han)

Through 2025, Xinjiang will introduce nearly 10 billion yuan (about 1.5 billion U.S. dollars) of technological investment and incubate nearly 30 entities for innovation and entrepreneurship related to carbon reduction.

Since its construction, the Tarim Desert Road has facilitated transportation and boosted the livelihoods of local people. Now, the road stands as a testimony to China's commitment to honoring its carbon goals.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Bianji)
HYDERABAD: Bharatiya Janata Party state president Bandi Sanjay Kumar has demanded a CBI probe into the Jubilee Hills gang rape incident in which minor girl was the victim. Alleging that the police were sidetracking the investigations to save children of AIMIM leaders who are involved in the incident, Sanjay on Saturday said the TRS government was attempting to save its ally by denying justice to the victim.

He made it clear that if the state government refused to order a probe into the incident by the Central Bureau of Investigation, then the BJP would not hesitate to seek legal intervention to ensure justice to the victim and punishment to the guilty. How can the police investigate transparently when children of the ruling partys friends are involved in the case? The onus is on the Chief Minister to ensure that no stain falls on it, and this can be possible only with an impartial investigation. There are a lot of doubts and apprehensions with respect to the investigation and all of these can be addressed if the government orders a CBI probe, Sanjay said.

Why is the Chief Minister silent on the issue? Is this because his friends from the MIM are involved, he asked. The BJP, he said, would not rest until justice was done to the victim and the guilty were punished, irrespective of who they were as promised by minister K.T. Rama Rao.

Meanwhile, the BJP submitted a memorandum to the Director General of Police saying the gangrape had occurred during the day in a brazen manner and everyone involved, whether directly or indirectly, must be brought to book and punished. The party said the police named one accused as being a member of a family of an official in the TRS government, and another the son of a sitting MLA. It said given the seriousness of the situation and to conclude prima facie that he (the official of the state government) was not part of the crime would be too premature.

The delay in the police registering the crime raised suspicion that there is an attempt to obfuscate the facts, the BJP leaders, former MLA N.V.S.S. Prabhakar, former MLC N. Ramchander Rao, and the partys state general secretary Bangaru Shruti, told the Director General of Police.
Nadhim Zahawi warned Tory MPs last night they were plotting a course for disaster by seeking to remove Boris Johnson as Prime Minister.

The Education Secretary said the public do not vote for divided teams  and unless the party unites it could go down to a defeat as catastrophic as Tony Blairs Labour landslide of 1997.

Mr Johnson could find out as soon as today whether rebel MPs have collected enough letters to trigger a no-confidence vote in his leadership. One critic claimed at the weekend that 67 letters have been submitted to backbench chief Sir Graham Brady  significantly more than the 54 required. But Downing Street said it was simply not possible to know whether this is true.

Mr Johnson could find out as soon as today whether rebel MPs have collected enough letters to trigger a no-confidence vote

Last night Mr Zahawi insisted the PM had got the big calls right  and urged MPs to get behind him to ensure the Conservatives win the next general election.

And Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said that, although he did not think the threshold of 54 letters would be reached, he was confident that the PM would win any subsequent vote.

As MPs prepare to return to Westminster today after a week away:

It emerged that Tory rebels spent the Jubilee weekend circulating a dossier arguing that the only way to win the next election is to remove Boris Johnson;

Mr Johnson prepared to launch a fightback this week, unveiling plans to tackle NHS inefficiency and expand the right to buy;

A poll suggested that the Conservatives are on course to lose the by-election in Wakefield, West Yorkshire, later this month;

Splits emerged among Tory rebels about who should take over with a Remainer saying a new leader could rejoin the single market and a Eurosceptic demanded the successor be an ardent Brexiteer.

Nadhim Zahawi warned Tory MPs last night they were plotting a course for disaster by seeking to remove Boris Johnson as Prime Minister

If the 54 letters have already been submitted, Sir Graham, chairman of the Conservatives backbench 1922 Committee, could make an announcement as soon as this morning. Observers expect any confidence vote to take place on Wednesday.

One Conservative MP said that if the announcement is not made tomorrow, it is likely any vote would be deferred until after the by-elections in Wakefield and Tiverton in Devon on June 23.

Last night Mr Zahawi told the Daily Mail: People do not vote for divided teams. We are strongest when we are united and focused on delivery for the British people. The PM has got the big calls right: be it on Brexit, vaccines or leading us out of the pandemic. We need to get behind him.

Meanwhile, Mr Shapps told the BBCs Sunday Morning yesterday that Mr Johnson would lead the Conservatives into a general election victory because the issues that matter to people are Brexit and economic growth.

He dismissed the mixed reception received by the PM as he attended a service for the Queen at St Pauls Cathedral on Friday, where boos could be heard from the crowd. Mr Shapps noted that there were also cheers and said politicians dont expect to be popular all the time.

If the 54 letters have already been submitted, Sir Graham Brady, chairman of the Conservatives backbench 1922 Committee, could make an announcement as soon as this morning

Asked if he believes there is going to be a vote of no-confidence in Mr Johnson this week, Mr Shapps said: No, I dont... Im absolutely certain, with some of these huge decisions, like sorting out Brexit, getting through coronavirus, seeing the largest growing economy last year, these are decisions and actions which will matter to people.

Asked if Mr Johnson would win a vote of confidence, the Transport Secretary said: Yes, he will.

Business minister Paul Scully last night said Mr Johnson could face a vote of no-confidence but backed him to face it down.

Speaking to Channel 4s The Andrew Neil Show, Mr Scully said: We may well have a vote of confidence. I think he will win that.

Government sources said it was impossible to predict whether the threshold of 54 letters would be reached  and how any subsequent vote would go.

The rebels would need 180 votes to remove the Prime Minister  and he has an in-built advantage as around 170 Tory MPs are on the so-called payroll vote because they have jobs as ministers, trade envoys, ministerial bag carriers or party vice-chairmen.

One source said: Any confidence vote would be a secret ballot so its going to be very uncertain. And if a payroll MP votes against they are expected to resign. The source added: The problem for the rebels is that there is no alternative candidate.

Last week, divisions among the rebels emerged when Tobias Ellwood, an opponent of the PM, suggested the UK could rejoin the single market if Mr Johnson is replaced.

This prompted the Eurosceptic rebel Andrew Bridgen to say: Let me be clear. If we get the opportunity to move on from the leadership of Boris Johnson, the next Prime Minister will have to be an active Brexiteer.

Boris blasts back with health and housing reforms

By Daniel Martin Policy Editor for the Daily Mail

A defiant Boris Johnson will launch a fightback against his critics this week by unveiling plans to tackle NHS inefficiency and expand the right to buy social housing.

Despite the threat of a ballot on his leadership, the Prime Minister will make it clear that his Government plans to focus on policies that can win the next election for the Conservatives.

The idea is to show that Mr Johnson is still brimming with ideas for improving the country  and that it would be foolish for his MPs to get rid of him.

This week will see a slew of health announcements, including the revelation today that the NHS has carried out 1million checks for cancer and other diseases as part of a post-pandemic catch-up programme. Health Secretary Sajid Javid will also publish a report by Sir Gordon Messenger, a former Royal Marine general who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, into the future of NHS management.

Despite the threat of a ballot on his leadership, the Prime Minister will make it clear that his Government plans to focus on policies that can win the next election for the Conservatives

The review will look at ways of replicating good leadership across the NHS, and ensuring that the best leaders are attracted to the health service.

The Government will also expand on its plans to extend the right to buy, one of Margaret Thatchers flagship policies.

Mr Johnson wants to make it easier for people who live in housing association properties to buy their own homes. A No 10 source said: This week the Prime Minister will be focusing on important issues the public want us to address, such as the NHS, the cost of living, and housing.

Former Tory leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith urged Mr Johnson to unveil more traditional Conservative policies, such as tax cuts.

He said: Will the Conservative Government please stand up. Boris Johnson and the Conservative Party need to stand up and become Conservative in government.

Those in the squeezed middle have seen taxes rise dramatically. The Conservatives need to cut taxes to ease the pain of the crisis.

In a speech this week, Mr Johnson will say that he wants 2.5million people who rent housing association properties to have the chance to buy their homes at a discount.

He is also expected to signal his support for the construction of more flat-pack homes.

Under the right-to-buy policy, tenants living in council houses can get a discount of up to 70 per cent of the market price, depending on how long they have lived there, or a maximum of 87,200, rising to 116,200 in London. There is a less generous scheme for renters of housing association properties, with a discount of between 9,000 and 16,000.

Mr Johnson is said to want to offer these tenants a bigger discount

Former Tory leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith urged Mr Johnson to unveil more traditional Conservative policies, such as tax cuts

This week ministers will also update the public on how the NHS is delivering the biggest ever catch-up programme, with a vast expansion in scans and tests in community clinics. Since February the number of patients waiting more than two years for treatment has more than halved.

Sir Gordons findings on the NHS come after a sharp increase in central bureaucracy in the NHS. The doubling in the numbers working in NHS England and the Department of Health and Social Care  with the biggest rises seen at the highest levels  over the last two years come at a time when the nursing workforce rose by just 7 per cent.

The figures show the central workforce rose from 7,883 to 14,515, with the number of senior officials rising by 125 per cent, as the pay bill went from 42million to 83million.

Sir Gordon is also understood to be concerned that too much NHS management energy is focused on immediate and short-term tasks, with too little attention paid to the long-term agenda.

Fury over rebels dossier of doom

By Daniel Martin Policy Editor for the Daily Mail

Tory rebels came under fire last night after they spent the Jubilee weekend sharing a document that argues the only way to win the next election is to remove Boris Johnson as Prime Minister.

The paper, entitled Party Leadership, has been sent to a number of MPs who are considering submitting a letter of no confidence in the PM.

It says the only way to end this misery is to remove Mr Johnson, who it claims is no longer an electoral asset.

The document adds that public anger over Partygate is not going to go away, with the prospect of anti-Tory tactical voting leading to a landslide for Labour.

Former Tory leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith criticised the rebels, saying: It is sad that during the course of the Queens Jubilee celebrations, some MPs took it upon themselves to drag internecine Conservative politics into the mix.

It showed no respect for this great moment of celebration. It is not known who has circulated the briefing document, but key rebel leaders are understood to include former chief whip Mark Harper and Aaron Bell, an MP who was only elected in 2019.

Key rebel leaders are understood to include former chief whip Mark Harper

While Mr Harper is said to be concentrating on converting older MPs to the anti-Johnson cause, Mr Bell is working on the more recent Tory intake.

Mr Harper is chairman of the Covid Recovery Group, which called for looser restrictions during the pandemic. His opposition to lockdown explains his anger at the revelations of a party culture in No 10 while there were curbs for the public.

Mr Bell was denounced as a turncoat by one Cabinet minister at the weekend. The minister said he only won his Newcastle-under-Lyme seat  the first Tory to do so for more than 100 years  because of Mr Johnsons popularity. Andrew Bridgen, another prominent rebel, revealed the existence of the briefing in a blog yesterday. He said: Unfortunately it is hard for me to disagree with its content. It would be a huge mistake to ignore the mood of the nation.

Last night Tory MP Brendan Clark-Smith said: This is not a week for politicians to be talking about themselves.

And fellow Tory MP Mark Jenkinson added: I dont know what drives a tiny minority of my colleagues to do the Labour Partys bidding, but I do know that we have the Prime Minister and his Cabinet behind us in our mission to deliver on our 2019 promises. Every single seat of our historic majority was won with Boris Johnson at the helm.

The document, which covers one side of A4, states: Boris Johnson is no longer an electoral asset and, if left in post, will lead the party to a substantial defeat in 2024. He will lose Red Wall seats (with majorities under 10,000) to Labour, and Blue Wall seats (majorities up to 20,000) to the Liberal Democrats. At least 160 MPs are at risk. It adds: The only way to end this misery, earn a hearing from the British public, and restore Conservative fortunes to a point where we can win the next general election, is to remove Boris Johnson.
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Harry and Meghan have departed the UK and flown back to America an hour before the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebration ended, it is believed.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were seen for the last time in public on Friday at the Thanksgiving service in St Paul's Cathedral before they flew back home when the Jubilee Pageant kicked off today.

The couple, who have been largely absent from the fanfare, spent a lot of time at Frogmore Cottage during their stay and hosted a 'relaxed' party for Lilibet's first birthday at the Windsor residence.

They did not attend the Platinum Party and stayed in Windsor alongside the Queen to reportedly watch the concert with Her Majesty.

Harry and Meghan then drove, according to the Sun, to Farnborough Airport at 1.30pm, an hour before the Pageant started at 2.30pm and are now on their way back to California.

This was hours before the Queen - who sources say was 'determined' to bravely overcame her painful mobility issues - returned to Buckingham Palace to personally thank the thousands of well-wishers in the crowd who had turned out to express their own gratitude.

She was flanked by her three heirs - son, Prince Charles, grandson, Prince William, and great-grandson, Prince George - offering a glimpse into the monarchy's future.

The Sussexes were left out of any official role during the Jubilee, and one aide told the Telegraph at the beginning of the Jubilee they would not be having 'a prominent role' in the festivities.

The Daily Mail's Richard Kay wrote that the long weekend saw a triumph of 'public service and duty' over the 'celebrity-driven approach of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex' and whose absence was 'barely noticed'.

He added: 'Right now our love for monarchy is greater and more enduring than ever.'

Meghan, Duchess of Sussex and Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex attend the National Service of Thanksgiving at St Paul's Cathedral on Friday, 3 June

Queen Elizabeth II waves to the crowd during the end of the Platinum Jubilee Pageant today

Emotional Queen says she is 'humbled and deeply touched' as she thanks the millions who celebrated her Platinum Jubilee An emotional Queen said she remains 'committed to serving' the nation to 'the best of my ability' after she concluded her Platinum Jubilee celebrations by greeting crowds of adoring fans on the balcony of Buckingham Palace. The 96-year-old monarch was absent for much of the extended Bank Holiday weekend, after finding the first day enjoyable but tiring, and in a message of thanks acknowledged this but said her 'heart' had been with well-wishers. Surrounded by her family, including Prince Charles, Camilla, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, George, Charlotte and Louis, she was cheered by thousands of well-wishers after stepping on to the balcony following the Platinum Pageant, which told the story of her life, and the nation, with an eccentric, fun and imaginative carnival-like display. Smiling as she acknowledged the spectators, she looked down on The Mall where tens of thousands had waited in hope of seeing her. The Queen said later in her message: 'When it comes to how to mark seventy years as your Queen, there is no guidebook to follow. It really is a first. But I have been humbled and deeply touched that so many people have taken to the streets to celebrate my Platinum Jubilee. 'While I may not have attended every event in person, my heart has been with you all; and I remain committed to serving you to the best of my ability, supported by my family. 'I have been inspired by the kindness, joy and kinship that has been so evident in recent days, and I hope this renewed sense of togetherness will be felt for many years to come. 'I thank you most sincerely for your good wishes and for the part you have all played in these happy celebrations.' Advertisement

The Platinum Jubilee Pageant was an afternoon of entertainment for members of the royal family, who all sat together alongside their siblings and cousins.

The parade told the story of her life, and the nation, with an eccentric, fun and imaginative carnival-like display.

An insider said: 'There was no fanfare, they just went. They didn't stick around for the Platinum Jubilee pageant which is a celebration of Britain and all of its quirks and eccentricities over the Queen's 70 year reign.'

Instead of attending this and a concert yesterday, Harry and Meghan celebrated their daughter Lilibet's first birthday in Windsor on Saturday with a 'relaxed' birthday party with royal second cousins invited to the festivities.

The little girl's birthday party was open to Zara and Mike Tindall's three children, Mia, eight, Lena, three, and Lucas, one, as well as Savannah, 11, and Isla, 10, daughters of Peter Phillips and Autumn Kelly.

The couple were also seen at the Friday's thanksgiving service at St Paul's Cathedral, where a huge cheer went up as Harry and Meghan arrived and they were greeted at the great west door by the Dean of St Paul's.

It was the first time that the couple were on full public view alongside the Windsors since they quit the monarchy for a new life in the US two years ago.

They spent a few minutes talking to the senior cleric before they entered the place of worship and proceeded to greet the long line of clergy.

But before the festivities started an aide told The Telegraph: 'The media might try to make them prominent, but in reality they are not going to be playing a prominent role. A line has been drawn.'

Harry stopped to chat for a few moments with the Archbishop of York who later will give the sermon and is expected to praise the Queen's 70-year reign.

The Sussexes were also seen from a window at Thursday's Trooping the Colour, but were not on the balcony alongside working royals.

Neither Lilibet, nor her older brother three-year-old Archie, have been seen in public at any of the festivities.

And today, they missed the Monarch's appearance to the nation where she made a surprise visit from the balcony.

This was not her only surpises with her Paddington appearance seen as a much welcome appearance by the Queen.

A palace aide told the Sun: 'As you saw she likes to spring a few surprises.'

After the outpouring of public affection during her balcony appearance, the Queen said she was 'humbled and deeply touched' so many people had taken part in marking her 70-year reign.

The huge crowds at the Platinum Jubilee pageant today

The Monarch was flanked by her three heirs - son, Prince Charles, grandson, Prince William, and great-grandson, Prince George - offering a glimpse into the monarchy's future. Also pictured is Kate Middleton, Prince Louis and Princess Charlotte

A royal themed float due to be used in the Pageant waiting in Westminster this morning, June 5, 2022

People set up the tables for the Big Jubilee Lunch on The Long Walk in Windsor on June 5, 2022

Royal superfans wearing ponchos early on The Mall ahead of the Jubilee Pageant, June 5, 2022

Royal revellers done reds, whites and blues at a party in Windsor Great Park, June 5, 2022

As she walked slowly and gingerly, stick in hand, out on to the balcony, it was clear what a herculean effort the 96-year-old Queen was making. But she was rewarded with a deafening roar of cheers and a sea of red, white and blue.

The Queen, who did not attend the Jubilee events on Friday and Saturday after suffering physical discomfort, acknowledged her absences but made clear that her commitment to serve her people  first made all those decades ago  remained undiminished, particularly with her family by her side.

Queen 'struggled to not be overcome by tears', body language expert says The Queen is believed to have 'struggled to not be overcome by tears' as she greeted thousands of Jubilee well wishers from the balcony at Buckingham Palace. In an emotional end to the four-day Platinum Jubilee, which marked her 70th year as Queen, the Monarch could be seen 'narrowing' her eyes to avoid 'breaking down', body language expert Judi James said. The longest reigning Monarch in British history appeared for three minutes on the balcony as she maintained she was 'committed to serving' the nation to 'the best of my ability'. While there Ms James analysed her body language and said the Queen was using 'all her will power' to avoid breaking down in public for the first time in her life. She said the clear signs of this could be seen in the Queen's eyes and her lips being 'sucked' as she stood on the most famous balcony in the world. Surrounded by her family, including Prince Charles, Camilla, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, George, Charlotte and Louis, she was cheered by thousands of well-wishers after stepping on to the balcony following the Platinum Pageant. The parade told the story of her life, and the nation, with an eccentric, fun and imaginative carnival-like display which the Monarch missed along with many Jubilee events. Advertisement

'While I may not have attended every event in person, my heart has been with you all; and I remain committed to serving you to the best of my ability, supported by my family,' she said.

'I have been inspired by the kindness, joy and kinship that has been so evident in recent days, and I hope this renewed sense of togetherness will be felt for many years to come. I thank you most sincerely for your good wishes and for the part you have all played in these happy celebrations.'

And it was not just the crowds outside Buckingham Palace and watching on at home who paid tribute to the Queen. In Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelensky congratulated the monarch, saying he was 'grateful [to Britain] for supporting Ukraine in the fight for our freedom and independence'.

The four-day Bank Holiday celebrations brought communities together as they marked the Queen's 70-year reign.

It began with Trooping the Colour on Thursday when, for the first time in the event, the Queen handed over her duties to Prince Charles, who was joined by Prince William and Princess Anne. The monarch did, however, stand stoically on the balcony to take the salute as the troops returned.

Later, she reappeared on the balcony with the members of her family who still undertake royal duties  neatly sidestepping the issue of what to do with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex and the Duke of York  for an impressive Jubilee flypast involving some 70 aircraft.

That night she made her third public appearance of the day at Windsor Castle, where she launched the Jubilee beacon lighting, which saw more than 3,500 torches lit in her honour around the world.

Buckingham Palace was, however, forced to announce she would pull out of the following day's Service of Thanksgiving at St Paul's Cathedral due to the physical discomfort she was suffering.

The service was dominated by the attendance of Prince Harry and Meghan, making their first joint royal appearance since acrimoniously quitting their duties.

On Saturday the Queen was also a no-show at the Epsom Derby, but became the star of the evening's Party at the Palace concert  though she was not there in person. A scene-stealing performance in a short sketch, in which she takes tea with Paddington Bear, surprised even her closest family, who had been left in the dark about the project.

Meanwhile in the Royal Box, Prince Charles  who gave his seal of approval to the musical programme  waved his Union Flag as pop star George Ezra played his hit song Shotgun. 'He knew the tune straight away and couldn't stop tapping his toes. He loved it,' a source said.

The Monarch with the Prince of Wales and Cambridges

The Platinum Pageant makes its way down The Mall on Sunday. Seen here is a giant figurine being taken down

Camilla, Duchess of Cambridge, Prince Charles, Prince of Wales, Queen Elizabeth II, Prince George of Cambridge, Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, Princess Charlotte of Cambridge, Prince Louis of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge stand on the balcony of Buckingham Palace

An image of the Queen is projected on the Royal carriage as she does not appear to later that day

Cocking a snook! The prince pulled more than a few faces as he watched the pageant from the Royal box with his mother, the Duchess of Cambridge

All fun and smiles: The prince appeared to enjoy himself despite four long days of jubilee celebrations

Sitting next to Louis' grandfather was the Duchess of Cambridge, with the Princess Royal sat on the other

Part of the parade seen in miliary uniform as the Platinum Pageant marks the end of the Jubilee events

A decorative bauble is one of the many interesting things seen during the Pageant

Katherine Jenkins and Chris Eubank participate in The Platinum Pageant

Katherine Jenkins and Bonnie Langford made their debut in front of cheering crowds on the 1950s bus

The row of buses, which were filled with celebrities and took part in The Time of Our Lives section of the pageant of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations

Anthea Turner, Peter Duncan, Peter Purves and Valerie Singleton take part in a parade during the Platinum Jubilee Pageant

Prince Charles also gave a deeply personal tribute on stage to 'Your Majesty... Mummy'.

Yesterday the four-day celebrations came to a close with the Big Jubilee Lunch and the Platinum Jubilee pageant.

Touching moment Prince Charles bounces his cheeky grandson on his knee as four-year-old Prince Louis steals the show AGAIN Prince Louis joined his grandfather, who pointed out some of the spectacles on display in the parade After stealing the show on the Royal balcony, Prince Louis showed off his star power again today while watching the fourth day of Platinum Jubilee celebrations. The four-year-old delighted crowds on Thursday as he stood next to his great-grandmother The Queen with his hands covering his ears amid the roaring cries of the public. Today, as he sat next to the Duchess of Cambridge in the Royal Box at the Platinum Jubilee Pageant in London, he reacted with similar wonder at all the fuss. At times, he was pictured cocking a snook, put his hands over his mother's mouth, waved his arms in the air and stood on his seat for a better view. He later moved across to his other relatives and sat on his grandfather Prince Charles' lap, who pointed out the spectacles in the parade. And of course, social media loved it - as Abby posted on Twitter: 'Prince Louis being iconic as always.' Belle added: 'Prince Louis' facial expressions are as legendary as ever.' Canellecitadelle tweeted: 'Prince Louis deserves is own meme section! I cant with how expressive his face is!! Love you little bug!' Advertisement

The pageant was a gloriously eccentric British extravaganza, including a fleet of 'national icons' riding on open-top buses dedicated to different eras, as well as bicycle stunt riders, classic cars and Bollywood dancers.

And there was a moment of unintentional hilarity when the car driving The Great British Bake-Off's Prue Leith broke down and had to be pushed off The Mall, prompting giggles from Camilla and Princess Anne.

The Queen's typically buttoned-up daughter appeared to be enjoying herself, jiving and clapping in a cream suit to 1970s hits, including by Kool & The Gang.

But the icing on the cake came at 4.30pm when the Union Flag on the roof of Buckingham Palace was taken down and replaced by the Royal Standard. It was the first public signal that the Queen had returned from Windsor Castle to offer her own heartfelt thanks to the people of Britain for their seven decades of love and support.

The Duchess of Cornwall, patron of the Big Lunch, estimated that up to 18 million people could have taken part in Jubilee street parties, and the Queen expressed her hope this 'renewed sense of togetherness' would be felt for years to come.

Sunday's Pageant, which was so major in scale that a rehearsal was not feasible, concluded what was a varied programme of events since Thursday.

David Zolkwer, show director of the Platinum Jubilee Pageant, said: 'One of the most exciting things about the Platinum Jubilee Pageant was that there was never going to be a full dress rehearsal - the first and only time our entire cast came together was on the day - it was truly a once-in-a-lifetime event.

'Even after working closely with all these inspirational performers for so long to plan their Pageant beat by beat, the wonder of the live performance still absolutely took my breath away.

'The genuine commitment, exuberance and generosity of spirit of the thousands of people involved was a joy and a privilege to behold - it was truly the people's Pageant.'

Revellers were fortunate that the pageant went off without thunderstorms or heavy rain, which had been feared.

Councilor Adam Hug, leader of Westminster City Council, said the borough of Westminster has 'seen an unprecedented coming together of people', adding: 'It has been the most extraordinary event to stage and a national collaboration which has worked brilliantly.'

Meanwhile, travel chaos is on the cards for people returning to work on Monday due to a strike resulting in tube stations across London being closed.

London Underground advised people not to travel, warning of severe disruption across the network from the start of service on Monday to 8am on Tuesday.

Members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) are taking industrial action in a dispute over jobs and pensions.

Transport for London (TfL) said some train services will run but many stations, especially those in central and south London, will be closed, while others may only open for limited periods.

The Queen pictured on the balcony with the Cambridges during the Platinum Jubilee Pageant, June 5, 2022

Standing on top of the 1950s bus, Sir Cliff Richard - who was singing on top of the bus - Chris Eubank, Katherine Jenkins and Bonnie Langford made their debut in front of cheering crowds

Some 10,000 people including a cast of 6,000 performers are involved in staging the carnival route from Horse Guards. Pictured: Kate Moss dancing alongside Patsy Kensit

An outpouring of affection... and good omens for the royal future: From Union Jacks festooned across suburban streets to flags fluttering on village greens, the outpouring of affection has surprised even the most ardent of royalists, writes RICHARD KAY

Who would have believed it? Who could have dreamt of the scenes of such unbridled joy, not just outside Buckingham Palace over this extraordinary Jubilee bank holiday, but up and down the country?

From the Union Jacks festooned across suburban streets, to the flags fluttering from poles on village greens and hanging from countless lamp posts, the outpouring of affection has surprised even the most ardent of royalists.

Not even that most familiar of curmudgeons, the British weather, could dampen the spirit and wonder of four spectacular summer days.

Yet many feared that we would celebrate the Queen's 70 years on the throne with nothing more than a stifled yawn.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, along with their three children, all sing the national anthem with the crowd outside Buckingham Palace

Meanwhile people up and down the UK celebrated with their own events, including fancy dress parties such as the one here in Greater Manchester

Animals got in on the action too as owners dressed their pets in jubilee themed costumes

With a monarchy divided among itself by family discord and soiled by scandal, there was a sense of 'how much do people really care?'.

The evidence  from the 18million across Britain who sat down for street parties yesterday to the hundreds of thousands who poured into London for the people's pageant, the pop concert and the Red Arrows spectacular flypast  was a resounding expression of national unity. Even television audiences, no longer as reliable a barometer of the nation's mood because of the growth of social media platforms, spoke of the gratitude and respect many Britons have for its monarch.

Close to 12million watched the concert at the Palace on a night when rival attractions included an England football match, 7.5million tuned in for the Trooping the Colour on Thursday and another five million saw the BBC's broadcast of the lighting of the beacons. These are not insignificant figures.

Last night as the pageantry and carnival reached its climax, the Mall became a river of friendly humanity flowing between the trees that line the route to the Palace, impatient for one last glimpse of the Queen who thrilled the crowds by coming from Windsor to take their salute.

From the Palace balcony  with its peek of Prince Charles's vision of a future slimmed-down monarchy of him, Camilla, William, Kate and their children  her view of the euphoria must have been one of bewildered delight.

After the Royal Family's extraordinary battering  much of it self-inflicted  over the Prince Andrew affair and the recriminations surrounding the exile of Prince Harry and Meghan, what we witnessed this weekend was not just a patriotic love for the Queen.

It was also a demonstration of support for the noblest virtues of monarchy, of public service and of duty.

Many will see it too as a rejection of the celebrity-driven approach of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, once proclaimed as the royals for the Black Lives Matter and #MeToo era, but whose absence from yesterday's final day of celebrations was barely noticed. The Queen, of course, was the focus  and she certainly played her part, from that wonderful Paddington Bear skit to her balcony curtain calls.

But, at the same time, what these four days have showed us is that talk of a Britain without royalty and that the Queen, as republicans have it, should be 'Elizabeth the Last', are simply wrong.

The crowds that cheered Prince Louis's show-stealing antics and his brother George's sing-along to Sweet Caroline also cherish the Queen's link to the Second World War and the last vestiges of Empire, because of its thread to the future.

Right now our love for monarchy is greater and more enduring than ever. But what about that future? Ahead we could be destined for three old or ageing kings. Charles is already in his mid-70s, and if his mother lives as long as the Queen Mother he could be in his ninth decade before inheriting the throne.

The UK public and tourists were keen to get a glimpse of the royal family, climbing on walls and buildings to get a glimpse of Sunday's parade

The pageant on Sunday even included a 3D hologram on the side of the Queen's iconic golden carriage

The Queen's great-grandchildren made well-received appearances throughout the jubilee weekend

The Red Arrows have appeared in many major royal events to perform or participate in flyovers as one of the UK's most iconic aircraft

Members of the royal guard salute outside Buckingham Palace

The Queen and her son and heir Prince Charles looked to be enjoying Sunday's celebrations on the Buckingham Palace balcony

William and George may also not accede until they are in their 60s or even their 70s.

But does that even matter? For it has been the arrival of fresh blood in the Royal Family, first with Kate Middleton and then with her and William's delightful children, which has proved to be such a positive and stabilising influence.

As the Queen has aged we have seen a democratising of royalty: Charles picking up many of his mother's duties with William, Kate and (over this weekend) their children, doing much of the glad-handing and flesh-pressing so vital in keeping that cord between monarchy and people alive.

Over the years the royal 'firm' has ridden out many bumps in the road. The death of Princess Diana in 1997 was one such bump. She was the image of modernity, a princess for the age, famously described (but not by Tony Blair as he claimed) as 'the people's princess'.

The Windsors, by contrast, came across then as hidebound, cold and out of touch.

Yet five years later, by the time of the Queen's Golden Jubilee in 2002, the scale of the devotion and enthusiasm for the Queen and her family was remarkable. Ten years later at the Diamond Jubilee that affection was on show all over again.

However the Platinum Jubilee has been conducted against more perilously choppy waters. The saga of the Sussexes and their litany of complaints about the Royal Family  from alleged racist remarks about the colour of baby Archie's skin, to a lack of sympathy for Meghan's mental wellbeing  could easily have proved to be a major distraction.

The iconic Red Arrows performed a flypast to mark the pageant on Sunday using their red, white and blue smoke

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex attended jubilee celebrations, but kept a low profile

Spirit has been high throughout the jubilee celebrations with thousands coming from all over the world to take part

The Queen made a surprise appearance on the Buckingham Palace balcony with three other generations of her family

The pageant made use of the latest technology, with a 3D hologram of the Queen

The Queen's great-grandchildren rather stole the show at any event they attended!

Prince Charles could be seen pointing out some of the acts of the Jubilee pageant to his four-year-old grandson

Louis and his mother Kate Middleton clearly have a strong bond as he clung to her neck while enjoying some of the pageant acts

At the end of the pageant, thousands celebrated the Queen's balcony appearance by singing the national anthem

Also in the royal box were the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and their children, the Duchess of Cornwall and Princess Anne (not pictured). Leading politicians such as the PM and Sir Keir Starmer also had prime seats

Sunday's pageant was filled with dancing, music and performance art, as well as military parades and British icons

Throughout the weekend street parties were had up and down the UK - with local residents of all ages getting in on the fun

Residents of Teapot Lane in Aylesford, Kent, judge their Jubilee Bake-Off cake making competition during a street party on day four of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations

During the weekend the Queen sat down with the much-loved Paddington Bear for tea and marmalade sandwiches - with the Queen even finding one such sandwich in her own handbag

the Queen filmed with the crew from Paddington for half a day in Buckingham palace for the surprise short film which the public loved

Patience for a couple who have chosen to wash so much dirty linen in public through friendly US television networks has seen the goodwill that once existed towards them diminished. Inevitably, Harry and Meghan's decision to attend some of the four-day events pushed them centre stage. However as the weekend progressed even the will-they, won't-they palaver about whether the Sussexes could make up with William and Kate became unimportant.

When it didn't happen the public had made up its own mind: It was not prepared to let this desperately sad rift overshadow the tributes to the Queen.

The same was certainly true of Prince Andrew. Barely six months ago it was feared that the sexual abuse case against him would inflict untold damage on the Queen's Jubilee. His exclusion from any of the events was barely noted.

In the days and weeks ahead, courtiers will try to make sense of the triumphs and successes of these past days.

They know that our love for monarchy may have been reawakened in the crescendo of all the breathtaking events and that right now its mystery and mystique seems as strong as ever. But it is a fragile concept. In the absence of the Queen from future national events, how secure will public affection for Charles and his heirs be? And can it possibly match all that we have seen for the Queen?

One of the reasons for the success of the Queen's reign has been her omerta-like silence on every important issue. Charles, on the other hand, has offered his views on a whole range of subjects, which might imperil his hold on the love of the people. He has got one thing right, though.

The roars from the crowd in the Mall yesterday suggested that it approved of the balcony line-up as a taste of things to come.

There will, of course, be changes. One of the things I have learned over the years is the monarchy's unique ability to adapt  and after reporting on four Jubilees, I would say the omens are good.
A defiant Boris Johnson will launch a fightback against his critics this week by unveiling plans to tackle NHS inefficiency and expand the right to buy social housing.

Despite the threat of a ballot on his leadership, the Prime Minister will make it clear that his Government plans to focus on policies that can win the next election for the Conservatives.

The idea is to show that Mr Johnson is still brimming with ideas for improving the country  and that it would be foolish for his MPs to get rid of him.

This week will see a slew of health announcements, including the revelation today that the NHS has carried out one million checks for cancer and other diseases as part of a post-pandemic catch-up programme.

Boris Johnson is facing a mass rebellion amid the Partygate scandal and release of the Sue Gray report

Health Secretary Sajid Javid will also publish a report by Sir Gordon Messenger, a former Royal Marine general who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, into the future of NHS management.

The review will look at ways of replicating good leadership across the NHS, and ensuring that the best leaders are attracted to the health service.

The Government will also expand on its plans to extend the right to buy, one of Margaret Thatcher's flagship policies.

Mr Johnson wants to make it easier for people who live in housing association properties to buy their own homes.

A No 10 source said: 'This week the Prime Minister will be focusing on important issues the public want us to address, such as the NHS, the cost of living, and housing.'

The PM, pictured with wife Carrie Johnson, has attended multiple Platinum Jubilee events this weekend - and was booed by the public during his arrival at St Paul's Cathedral

Boris Johnson had to apologise to the Queen after it emerged a raucous party took place at 10 Downing Street the night before the Duke of Edinburgh's funeral

Former Tory leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith urged Mr Johnson to unveil more traditional Conservative policies, such as tax cuts.

He said: 'Will the Conservative Government please stand up. Boris Johnson and the Conservative Party need to stand up and become Conservative in government.

'Those in the squeezed middle have seen taxes rise dramatically. The Conservatives need to cut taxes to ease the pain of the crisis.'

In a speech this week, Mr Johnson will say that he wants 2.5million people who rent housing association properties to have the chance to buy their homes at a discount.

He is also expected to signal his support for the construction of more 'flat-pack' homes.

Under the right-to-buy policy, tenants living in council houses can get a discount of up to 70 per cent of the market price, depending on how long they have lived there, or a maximum of 87,200, rising to 116,200 in London.

Sajid Javid will publish a report by Sir Gordon Messenger, a former Royal Marine general who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, into the future of NHS management

There is a less generous scheme for renters of housing association properties, with a discount of between 9,000 and 16,000.

Mr Johnson is said to want to offer these tenants a bigger discount

This week ministers will also update the public on how the NHS is delivering the 'biggest ever catch-up programme', with a vast expansion in scans and tests in community clinics.

Since February the number of patients waiting more than two years for treatment has more than halved.

Former Tory leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith urged Mr Johnson to unveil more traditional Conservative policies, such as tax cuts

Sir Gordon's findings on the NHS come after a sharp increase in central bureaucracy in the NHS.

The doubling in the numbers working in NHS England and the Department of Health and Social Care  with the biggest rises seen at the highest levels  over the last two years come at a time when the nursing workforce rose by just 7 per cent.

The figures show the central workforce rose from 7,883 to 14,515, with the number of senior officials rising by 125 per cent, as the pay bill went from 42million to 83million.

Sir Gordon is also understood to be concerned that too much NHS management energy is focused on immediate and short-term tasks, with too little attention paid to the long-term agenda.
Tradesmen have been warned to stop work and ask for longer breaks if temperatures plummet to 1C.

Outdoor workers 'should be stood by on full pay' if it gets that cold, according to health and safety guidelines by the Victorian Trades Hall Council.

They are also encouraged to take longer breaks of up to 30 minutes per hour when temperatures drop below 9C.

The guidelines may apply to thousands of workers in the coming days as below average temperatures, showers, damaging winds, and snow batter parts of Australia.

Tradesmen have been warned to stop work and ask for longer breaks if temperatures plummet to 1C

The guidelines may apply to thousands of workers in the coming days as below average temperatures, showers, damaging winds, and snow batter the east coast of Australia

According to the OHS guidelines, tradespeople should get half-hour breaks every hour between 4C and 1C, 20-minute breaks between 7C and 4C and ten minutes between 9C and 7C.

Bosses must 'eliminate exposure to extreme cold' by providing heating, shelter and waterproof clothing for their employees, according to Safe Work Australia.

Workers need to be given time to acclimatise to the cold with job rotations, the national guidelines state.

Melbourne has been urged to rug up this week as maximum temperatures plummet over the next nine days, three degrees below what is usually recorded.

Icy winds will keep temperatures low with significant gusts recorded on Sunday, including 111km/h at Mount Fuller and 107km/h at Falls Creek.

Minimum temperatures in the eastern states will drop 'a little bit' below average to bring some frosty mornings of just two to three degrees.

Showers could fall across Sydney's west on Monday morning, but clear a few hours later as residents are hit with winds reminiscent of the icy gusts last week.

Outdoor workers 'should be stood by on full pay' if it gets that cold, according to health and safety guidelines by the Victorian Trades Hall Council

Workers need to be given time to acclimatise to the cold with job rotations, the national guidelines state (stock image)

Working in cold: Health and safety recommendations for employers Outside work in cold weather to be sheltered, screened and warmed with hot air blowers if possible. If the environment cannot be effectively controlled, implementation of an appropriate work/rest regime: for example, paid rest breaks of ten minutes per hour for temperatures between 9C and 7C, 20 minutes per hour for temperatures between 7 and 4C, and thirty minutes per hour for temperatures between 4C and 1C. (An air temperature of 1C should be regarded as the minimum acceptable for normal work. When the temperature reaches this point, workers should be stood by on full pay.) Workers needing to do work in intentionally cold environments below 1C - freezers for example - must be provided with appropriate protective clothing and the time they work in such environments must be kept to a minimum. Heated rest rooms or shelters should be provided so those workers may obtain temporary relief from the cold. Provision of hot drinks. Protection of the extremities through the use of appropriate protective clothing, including gloves, insulated or vapour barrier boots, and face masks as necessary. Provision of hot air jets, radiant heaters and appropriate types of gloves and mittens to keep the hands warm and maintain manual dexterity. Insulation or substitution of metal handles and control bars to reduce conductive heat loss. Source: Occupational Health and Safety Advertisement

The Bureau of Meteorology forecasts the Alpine resorts will receive up to 50 to 100cm of snow in coming days with residents in Hazelgrove near Oberon, in NSW, waking up to snow on Wednesday.

Tasmania is forecast to be hit with gusty showers and potential thunderstorms as a cold front travels across the Bass Strait.

Bushwalkers were warned snow would lower to around 700m in the central plateau and western districts on Monday afternoon and evening.

'Ski resorts are set to get another healthy dose of snow over the next few days as a cold front crosses the southeast, bringing a very cold airmass and plenty of moisture,' Weatherzone predicted.

'Snowfall is expected to be heaviest on Sunday and Monday, with lighter falls expected over the following few days.'

Residents at Hazelgrove near Oberon in NSW awoke to snow on Wednesday (pictured)

The bureau forecasts that the Australian Alps will receive up to 50 to 100cm of snow in coming days (pictured, snow in Oberon, 180km west of Sydney, on Wednesday)

Melbourne has been urged to rug up this week as maximum temperatures plummet over the next nine days, three degrees below what is usually recorded

Weatherzone forecaster Angus Konta said a low pressure system was expected to bring some 'pretty significant' winds as it travelled across southern Tasmania.

Wednesday is expected to be the coldest day in Sydney this week with temperatures dropping to a maximum of 15C.

Snow is likely to fall across NSW's southern alpine regions and possibly for Victoria as temperatures plummet below freezing.

Adelaide will have some cooler mornings this week with temperatures due to drop to below 10C each morning.

Southwesterly winds and cloud cover will keep temperatures at about 18C each day.

Canberrans should brace for a 'pretty chilly' week with snow beginning to fall in the south and west on Sunday and continuing on Monday.
A Tory peer is seeking a sentencing review after a paedophile who identifies as transgender was spared jail.

Baroness Nicholson is demanding action over the case of Peter Selby, who was caught with more than 125,000 child abuse images, including more than 2,400 that were classed as Category A, the most obscene.

Selby, 68, amassed the vile pictures and videos over a decade using internet search terms such as pre teen and jail bait, and the collection featured pictures of children as young as three.

Baroness Nicholson (pictured) is demanding action over the case of Peter Selby, who was caught with more than 125,000 child abuse images, including more than 2,400 that were classed as Category A, the most obscene

The paedophile, who was born male, admitted three charges of making indecent images of children and one of possessing extreme pornography, which involved an adult engaged in bestiality.

But the judge at Newcastle Crown Court was told that the paedophile was fearful about trying to manage in prison.

Making indecent images of children carries a maximum ten-year prison sentence but Selby was given a 14-month sentence, which was suspended for two years.

Recorder Geraldine Kelly said: You identify as transgender and that has caused issues for you and anxiety for you in how you would cope with that if you were sent immediately to prison... the impact of custody would be significant for you in the circumstances.

Recorder Geraldine Kelly said: You identify as transgender and that has caused issues for you and anxiety for you in how you would cope with that if you were sent immediately to prison... the impact of custody would be significant for you in the circumstances.

The judge at Newcastle Crown Court (pictured) was told that the paedophile was fearful about trying to manage in prison

The judge said she was suspending the sentence because Selby had sought counselling since being arrested in 2019, and was assessed in a pre- sentence report as being manageable in the community. Selby, of South Shields, Tyne and Wear, was ordered to sign the Sex Offenders Register and abide by a ten-year sexual harm prevention order.

The sentencing attracted public anger, and Conservative peer Baroness Nicholson said she would seek an immediate review of the case.

She said it demonstrated a disregard for child safety and questioned whether the judge had overlooked child protection in giving the suspended sentence, which allowed Selby to remain in the community. Baroness Nicholson said: We have a monstrous track record on child abuse, child pornography and child trafficking today.

It is understood that several complaints have already been made to the Attorney General, Suella Braverman, above, calling for the sentencing to be reviewed as too lenient

The State is a poor parent and this case demonstrates to me  and I am sure to others  a level of disregard for children that goes aggressively against the law, our customs and practice. I feel very strongly indeed about this.

It is understood that several complaints have already been made to the Attorney General, Suella Braverman, calling for the sentencing to be reviewed as too lenient.

Police found the child abuse images on three devices that were seized during a search at Selbys home.

The paedophile admitted owning the images and claimed to be shocked at the sheer number amassed.

Prosecutor Neil Pallister said 2,413 of the child images were classed as Category A. A further 2,127 were Category B and 120,864 were Category C.
Britain is sending a police officer and seven lawyers to The Hague to help support investigations into war crimes in Ukraine.

The delegation will be appointed to assist the International Criminal Court in the Netherlands.

The announcement  which follows 1million in funding committed earlier this year and the appointment of a British adviser  comes as ICC prosecutor Karim Khan QC visits London today. Mr Khan will provide an update on the progress of their investigation.

The UK and Norway will also deliver war crimes investigation training to Ukrainian police.

And officers from Metropolitan Police Counter Terrorism Unit are assisting with forensic and technical capabilities, such as biometrics and examination of digital devices.

The International Criminal Court's Assembly of States Parties held in The Hague is pictured, where Britain is sending a police officer and seven lawyers to The Hague to help support investigations into war crimes in Ukraine

Justice Secretary and Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab said: The UK has responded swiftly to a request from the International Criminal Court for more police and lawyers to aid their investigation into Russian war crimes in Ukraine.

Russian forces should know that they will be held to account for their actions and the global community will work together to ensure justice is served.

As well as the Metropolitan Police officer, the lawyers  all well experienced in international criminal law  are also set to assist.

Two further UK-based police officers will be appointed to help search for evidence via online sources.

Attorney General, Suella Braverman QC, added: Following my appointment of war crimes expert Sir Howard Morrison as an Independent Adviser to the Ukrainian Prosecutor Generals Office, I am determined that British expertise continues to be available to our friends in Ukraine in their search for justice.

We will stand side by side as they uncover the truth and hold those responsible in Putins regime to account for their actions.
Manchester Uniteds efforts to sign Frenkie de Jong are being complicated by Barcelona manager Xavi wanting Manchester Citys Bernardo Silva as a replacement.

Barcas financial problems mean their club bosses are happy to sanction a 70million deal for De Jong to join United and rejoin his former Ajax boss Erik ten Hag.

Talks continued yesterday but the Dutch midfielder is reluctant to leave Nou Camp for a club outside the Champions League and needs to be convinced.

Having played under him at Ajax, Frenkie de Jong is reportedly top of Erik ten Hag's transfer list

De Jong, 25, is a priority target for new United boss Erik ten Hag this summer as he looks to strengthen the spine of his team, but he faces a battle to sign him, with the silky performer having insisted he is already at his 'dream' side.

However, his comments after his country's 4-1 victory over Belgium, a game in which he delivered an eye-catching performance, may hand the Red Devils the impetus.

Speaking to NOS post-match, De Jong opened up on his preferred style of play.

Ten Hag managed de Jong in 59 games including a stunning Champions League run in 2018-19

'I like to be the first player to receive the ball from the defenders. In the national team I play differently compared to Barca. And I think this one fits me better,' he said.

He was also quizzed on whether the goal with Holland is to get on the ball 'as much as possible' during games, to which he responded with: 'Yeah, sure.'

Barcelona want Bernardo to replace De Jong

His remarks could put his potential suitors on red alert, and hint that his future lies away from the Nou Camp. PSG have also reportedly joined the race to sign him.

De Jong, however, has told ESPN: 'I prefer to stay with Barcelona. Barcelona is just my dream club. Also from a young age. I just said it too.

'I've never regretted my choice despite the fact that I had hoped for more in terms of prizes than I've achieved so far. But I have never regretted my choice.'

Bernardos contract at the Etihad runs until 2025 putting City in a strong position to ask for a hefty fee for their Portuguese international.

Talks continued on Saturday between United and Barcelona with agreement on De Jongs valuation moving closer but the player will still need to be persuaded.

Barca chief Joan Laporta could then ignore Xavis wishes but that would still be a gamble given the managers status at the club and throughout the city
Little Britain star David Walliams is set to replace Neil Patrick Harris as a judge on the upcoming season of Australia's Got Talent.

The actor, 50, will touch down in Australia later this month before they finally begin filming, after production was pushed back for two years because of the pandemic.

He joins judges Kate Ritchie, Alesha Dixon and Shane Jacobson.

Computer says... yes! Little Britain's David Walliams, 50, (pictured) is set to join the judging panel of the upcoming season of Australia's Got Talent after American actor Neil Patrick Harris pulled out

The upcoming series will see Aussie acts take on some of the best Got Talent acts from around the world.

Walliams, who describes his judging style as 'Maverick, like Tom Cruise in Top Gun,' has high expectations of the Aussie contenders.

'All the Australians I've met have been very outgoing, so I don't expect them to be as shy as British people are sometimes,' he said in a statement.

Down Under: David will touch down in Australia later this month before they finally begin filming, after it was pushed back for two years due to the pandemic. Pictured with fellow judge Alesha Dixon [R]

'People have had much more time than usual to work on their acts, so I'm expecting the standard to be really high.

'If its anything like BGT, there will be great excitement when people first step out on the stage, as many people haven't done that for a very long time.'

He said the Got Talent's enduring appeal was due to it being something families could watch together.

No thanks! US star Neil, 48, (pictured) is understood to have passed at the opportunity to return after his previous trip to Australia to film the show was cut short due to pandemic restrictions

'A show like Got Talent brings the whole family together and you want to watch it as it happens.'

A source close to production told Daily Mail Australia that LA-based Neil passed at the opportunity to return to the series because he wasn't happy with his previous trip.

Harris was forced to return to the US just two days after finishing then mandatory hotel quarantine because lockdown rules prevented the show from being filmed.

'He wasn't putting his children through that again,' claimed the source.

The all-new Australia's Got Talent is coming soon to Channel Seven and 7Plus.
The Britain's Got Talent judges have decided that this year's wild card act is Amber and the Dancing Collies, tweeting the announcement on Saturday.

The pirate-themed act last saw Amber and her prancing canines jumping around and doing tricks to a jaunty soundtrack.

The BGT Twitter account posted the news, saying: 'The Judges have decided, and our #BGT 2022 WILDCARD is... Amber and The Dancing Collies.'

Dancing dogs: The Britain's Got Talent judges have decided that this year's wild card act is Amber an the Dancing Collies, tweeting the announcement on Saturday

In her nautical semi-final performance, Amber and the dogs earned heaps of praise from the judges.

Alesha Dixon, 43, gushed: 'You choreographed that to perfection...And you did very, very well to keep up with those dogs.

'I commend you, obviously when it's live anything could go wrong and they were so brilliant, they worked so well.

Wild card: The pirate-themed act sees Amber and her prancing canines jump around and do tricks to a jaunty soundtrack

Prancing canines: The BGT Twitter account posted the news, saying: 'The Judges have decided, and our #BGT 2022 WILDCARD is... Amber and The Dancing Collies'

'You are the best dog act we've seen since Ashleigh and Pudsey, that was a spectacle...'

Amanda Holden, 51, added: 'For me it's just the amount of energy and joy, those dogs could not wait to get started...

'I felt like I'd gone to one of those Disney shows...It was like a part of a movie, it was absolutely extraordinary, well done.'

'Incredible': In her nautical semi-final performance, Amber and the dogs earned heaps of praise from the judges

Simon Cowell, 62, praised the performance as 'incredible'.

He lauded the dogs, saying: 'I've never seen a dog more enthusiastic in my life than when the second dog came out.

David Walliams, 50, also stressed Amber's mastery in the act, remarking: 'This is a nation of dog lovers...You are very talented too and it's the chemistry of the three of you that makes it so special.'

Praise: Alesha Dixon, 43, gushed: 'You choreographed that to perfection...And you did very, very well to keep up with those dogs'

It comes as Axel Blake was triumphant on Friday night's fifth semi-final of BGT in a gripping show ahead of Sunday's final.

Immediately after the announcement the comedian, 34, said: 'I feel amazing, thank you! Everyone at home and here, thank you very much!'

Poem-reading conversationist Aneeshwar Kunchala, seven, screamed as he received votes from judges David, Alesha and Amanda with the trio putting him straight through to the final.

Excited: Simon Cowell lauded the dogs, saying: 'I've never seen a dog more enthusiastic in my life than when the second dog came out'

He said: 'I feel amazing! I'm going to do another poem but it will be better upgraded.'

Aneeshwar took to the stage to perform an expressive poem about the importance of looking after the planet for his semi-final performance.

After his audition, Amanda said she was glad her daughters Alexa, 16, and Hollie, 10, were sitting in the audience so they could head the important message behind his words.

'Special': David Walliams, 50, also stressed Amber's mastery in the act, remarking: 'You are very talented too and it's the chemistry of the three of you that makes it so special'

Axel left the audience in fits of laughter with his jokes during his audition, with the funnyman being Simon's golden buzzer act earlier in the series.

The judge told him after his set: 'I've got to tell you, I was really nervous because I knew how good your first audition was and I really like you.

'I didn't realise actually how brilliant you are... I know people on these shows, we get carried away in the moment, "Oh you're a star, you're a star, you're a star," but I'm going to say it because I mean it, you're a star.'

Energetic: Amber and her collies ran up and down the pirate-themed stage in their semi-final performance

Brian and Krysstal and were buzzed off the show before they got the chance to finish their performance.

Guitarist Brian was seen standing on stage with his instrument alongside Krystall who wore a sequinned jacket over a black dress.

The pair began their slot by cracking a few jokes, prompting some giggles from the audience as they looked on.

Pooch pirates: The dancing dogs were in perfect synch around Amber's command as the trio performed

But, as the act went on, the gags left the judges increasingly unimpressed, with Simon insisting it seemed like they'd put no effort in for the late stage of the competition.

He said: 'As you can tell, we've got a bit of a split audience tonight. Some people were with us, some people loved you.

'I think it was not very well prepared for a semi-final.'

Champion: Comedian Axel Blake, 34, was triumphant on Friday night's fifth semi-final of Britain's Got Talent in a gripping show ahead of Sunday's final

David said: 'In fairness, I was the last person to buzz. So I was the least worst. It just wasn't coming over in the way we would have liked.

'We loved you in the audition, just being honest. I was looking forward to seeing you tonight but, for whatever reason, it just didn't come over.'

Alesha said: 'When I saw you on the line-up tonight I was really excited but it was just a bit ropey.'

Delighted: Poem-reading conversationist Aneeshwar Kunchala, seven, screamed as he received votes from the judges to send him through to the series final

Matricks Illusion kicked off the show and surprised the judges as they produced a clone on Simon for their performance.

The illusionist and magic act brought the glamour to the first performance dressed in glitzy gold and black outfits.

Part way through their live semi-final audition, they were joined by a lookalike of Simon, with the double donning a white shirt and a pair of high-waisted black trousers in the executive's typical style.

Passionate: The seven-year-old conservationist impressed the judges, with David saying he was one of his favourite acts

Elsewhere Scooter Boys left audience members' hearts in their mouths as they performed their tricks, with the words 'do not try this at home' emblazoned across the screen at the start.

Dressed in white outfits, they were seen leaping and flipping through the air on stage.

Impressed, Alesha told them: 'I love you boys so, so much. Your cheekiness, your friendship. The energy you brought tonight was fantastic.'

High hopes: Axel left the audience in fits of laughter with his jokes during his audition, with the funnyman being Simon's golden buzzer act earlier in the series

High praise: The judge, 62, told him after his set: 'I didn't realise actually how brilliant you are', with the performer now going through to Sunday's final

Elsewhere, a number of Britain's Got Talent acts were brought back to the stage on Saturday night to celebrate the Queen's Platinum Jubilee.

Colin Thackery, Jon Courtenay, The D-Day Darlings and the D-Day Juniors were joined by The Chelsea Pensioners Choir and Military Drummers for a patriotic performance.

Meanwhile, Amanda was dressed in a stunning red white and blue dress as a tribute to Her Majesty.

Patriotic: Elsewhere, a number of Britain's Got Talent acts were brought back to the stage on Saturday night to celebrate the Queen's Platinum Jubilee

The star wore a Union Jack themed gown which featured a tight, crimson bodice with an exposed back.

The bespoke House of Sheldon Hall piece was brought together with a show-stopping skirt and train.

It included ruffled detailing and acid-wash prints of the UK's flag.

Amanda wore her platinum blonde hair down in loose waves, opting for glam, dark eye make-up and a glossy baby pink lip.

Britain's Got Talent continues on ITV on Sunday at 7.30pm.
Cardi B is a proud mom of two children that she shares with her rapper husband Offset.

And on Saturday, the 29-year-old WAP hitmaker marked their baby son's nine-month milestone by sharing her favorite snaps of the infant to Instagram.

'Happy 9 months Wave !! My baby growing too fast on me,' captioned Cardi, who welcomed the little one in early September.

Baby boy: Cardi B is a proud mom of two children that she shares with her rapper husband Offset. And on Saturday, the 29-year-old WAP hitmaker marked their baby son's nine-month milestone by sharing her favorite snaps of the infant to Instagram

Many of the snaps showed Wave with a huge smile on his face as he modeled a comfy set of tie-dye sweats, as well as a wave-shaped diamond pendant necklace worth an estimated $200k that his parents purchased for him earlier this year.

He also rocked a more understated diamond chain and a pair of diamond stud earrings.

Wave's pricey necklace consists of a Cuban link chain and a pendant with Wave's first name spelled out in baguette diamonds, along with a blue enamel shark riding an orange surfboard, according to Page Six.

Decked out: Many of the snaps showed Wave with a huge smile on his face as he modeled a comfy set of tie-dye sweats, as well as the massive diamond chain necklace that his parents purchased for him earlier this year. Wave's pricey necklace consists of a Cuban link chain and a pendant with Wave's first name spelled out in baguette diamonds, along with a blue enamel shark riding an orange surfboard, according to Page Six

Growing: 'Happy 9 months Wave !! My baby growing too fast on me,' captioned Cardi, who welcomed the little one in early September

The chain is the creation of Elliot Eliantte, who's made several other pieces for Cardi and Offset's three-year-old daughter, Kulture.

For her first birthday, Kulture was gifted a diamond pendant and chain featuring enamel characters from the Netflix series 'Word Party', which reportedly cost $100,000.

Along with capturing him wearing his expensive bling, Cardi also included several shots of Wave enjoying infant life at her and Offset's sprawling Atlanta, Georgia home.

Oh baby! Along with capturing him wearing his expensive bling, Cardi also included several shots of Wave enjoying infant life at her and Offset's sprawling Atlanta, Georgia home

Adorable: She showed the nine-month-old cutie rocking a white robe after presumably getting out of a bath

In one adorable snap, Wave is seen wearing a pale blue onesie with a matching beanie and bib as he lounged on a yellow blanket.

Another showed the nine-month-old cutie rocking a white robe after presumably getting out of a bath.

Cardi also celebrated Wave turning eight months by posting photos of the boy on Instagram showing him all dressed up wearing his impressive jewelry collection.

Brother and sister: Cardi and Offset also share three-year-old daughter Kulture (pictured with Wave in May)

Blingy tradition: When Kulture celebrated her first birthday, she was gifted with a diamond pendant and chain featuring enamel characters from the Netflix series 'Word Party', which reportedly cost $100,000

Though she's family focused, Cardi hasn't let anything get in the way of her thriving music career and business ventures.

She recently received a Best Female Hip Hop Artist nomination at this year's BET Awards, which will air on Sunday, June 26.

The mother-of-two is up against the likes of Nicki Minaj and her WAP collaborator Megan Thee Stallion.

Balancing act: Though she's family focused, Cardi hasn't let anything get in the way of her thriving music career and business ventures; (L-R) Kulture, Cardi, Offset and Wave pictured in May
Hyderabad: TRS working president and IT minister K.T. Rama Rao lashed out at Union home minister Amit Shahs recent utterances that the BJP-led government at the Centre had given Rs 2.52 lakh crore to Telangana state in the last eight years.

Rama Rao reiterated that what the state had received from the Centre in that period was Rs 1.68 lakh crore whereas Telangana had contributed Rs 3.65 lakh crore to the Centre in the form of various taxes.

"I am ready to prove my claim on funds. I challenge him to prove his claim. If not he should rub his nose to the ground and offer apologies to the people of the state for his false claims," Rama Rao said while addressing a public meeting at Amistapur village in Bhootpur municipality of Mahbubnagar district.

Rao along with ministers V. Srinivas Goud and V. Prashanth Reddy and local MLAs visited Mahbubnagar and Narayanpur districts on Saturday to launch various development programmes.

He laid foundation for construction of Peruru lift irrigation scheme at a cost of Rs 55 crore; for a high-level bridge from Varne to Muthyalampally at a cost of Rs 18 crore; construction of a mini stadium at Bhootpur with Rs 3.5 crore and BT roads with Rs 10 crore besides inaugurating 2BHK houses for poor and handing them over to beneficiaries.

He criticised the BJP leaders for claiming that all the schemes being implemented by the state government were with central funds. "If that was so, why are there no schemes like Mission Bhagiratha, 2BHK housing, Aasara pensions, 24x7 free power to agriculture, Kalyana Laxmi, Shaadi Mubarak, Haritha Haram, Rythu Bandhu and Rythu Bima in BJP-ruled states," Rama Rao fumed.
Amy Poehler and Maya Rudolph had the same idea as they both arrived in all black looks for Netflix's Russian Doll FYSEE event.

The two comedians, 50 and 49, led the stars at the red carpet function held at Raleigh Studios in Los Angeles on Saturday afternoon.

Amy wore a black leather jacket with jeans and Maya donned a chic pantsuit.

Thinking alike: Amy Poehler (left) and Maya Rudolph (right) had the same idea as they both arrived in all black looks for Netflix's Russian Doll FYSEE event

The two women, who are both Saturday Night Live alumni, were in good spirits as they attended the star-studded gathering.

Amy opted for a patterned black shirt underneath her outer layer, which she tucked into her formfitting pants.

She finished the outfit with a pair of well-worn black boots and accessorized with a red statement ring on her index finger.

The blonde entertainer wore her shoulder-grazing locks in a side part with loose curls. She brought out her beautiful blue eyes with a face of flattering makeup.

Pretty: The blonde entertainer wore her shoulder-grazing locks in a side part with loose curls

Subtle makeup: She brought out her beautiful blue eyes with a face of flattering cosmetics

Fashionista: Maya turned heads with a black crewneck blouse worn under her blazer jacket and tucked into her slacks

Maya turned heads with a black crewneck blouse worn under her blazer jacket and tucked into her slacks.

She pulled the sleeves up to her elbows, exposing her forearms as she posed on the step-and-repeat.

The veteran entertainer commanded attention as she showed off her stellar style.

She wore her brunette bob in a center part and styled in very loose waves that cropped just above her shoulders.

Rudolph showed her playful side as she posed with a life size cutout of Natasha Lyonne, who stars in and created Russian Doll.

Fun: Rudolph showed her playful side as she posed with a life size cutout of Natasha Lyonne, who stars in and created Russian Doll

Gorgeous: Annie Murphy wore a spring-appropriate getup, showing off her fashion sense in a mint green blazer

Annie Murphy wore a spring-appropriate getup, showing off her fashion sense in a mint green blazer.

The Schitt's Creek actress combined it with a pair of light wash denim jeans that cropped above the ankle.

She rocked a red pedicure with her green and orange heeled sandals and wore her blonde hair with a bang.

The locks were tightly waved, giving her locks a beachy look as the fell over her shoulders.

Natural look: Her locks were tightly waved, giving her locks a beachy look as the fell over her shoulders

Attendee: Also at the function was Greta Lee who looked gorgeous in a long black skirt and white long-sleeved top

Also at the function was Greta Lee who looked gorgeous in a long black skirt and white long-sleeved top.

Her modest top had a tan-colored outline of a bra and she tucked it into her bottom, which had three centered buttons.

The actress, who also stars in the series, wore her raven locks in a straight and sleek style with a precise center part.

Bright! Carolyn Michelle Smith made a fashion statement in a turquoise blue two-toned dress

Carolyn Michelle Smith made a fashion statement in a turquoise blue two-toned dress.

The body-hugging number showed off her shape and had a side cutout at the chest.

She added a pair of beige open-toe heels that exposed her neon yellow pedicure.

Smith wore her hair in a side part that gave way to a straight, sleek style that fell over one shoulder.

Fun look: Charlie Barnett arrived in a tan colored suit with cream pinstripes and his double-breasted blazer topped an orange shirt with white trim

Charlie Barnett arrived in a tan colored suit with cream pinstripes and his double-breasted blazer topped an orange shirt with white trim.

The actor sported a neatly trimmed goatee and finished the look with a pair of coordinating orange and cream sneakers.

Costume designer Jennifer Rogien supported the event as she showed up in a golden yellow frock.

It had thin, black abstract designs throughout and also featured a keyhole at the chest that showed off her cleavage.

She wore her white-blonde hair in a side part with the short crop of tresses slicked behind her ears.

Fashion maven: Costume designer Jennifer Rogien supported the event as she showed up in a golden yellow frock

Girly girl: Brienne Rose looked light and feminine in a floral-print dress that she paired with white open-toe heels

Brienne Rose looked light and feminine in a floral-print dress that she paired with white open-toe heels.

The costume designer let her blonde hair fall over her shoulders in a subtle wave and she posed for photos.

Her long frock was belted at the waist, giving her a flattering silhouette.

Group shot: L-R Annie Murphy, Charlie Barnett, Carolyn Michelle Smith, Amy Poehler, Maya Rudolph, Greta Lee, Jennifer Rogien and Brienne Rose got together for a photo
Terri Irwin has marked her 30th wedding by sharing a touching tribute to her late husband Steve.

The mother-of-two shared a touching photo to Twitter of herself and Steve on Saturday standing together and smiling while he gently touched her arm.

Steve in his iconic Khaki uniform while Terri wore a beige rain jacket.

Memories: Teri Irwin, 57, (left) has celebrated her 30-year wedding anniversary with a moving tribute to her late husband Steve (right)

'I married this incredible bloke 30 years ago today,' she wrote

'What an adventure! Love and legacy live on.'

Terri has been open about her romance with iconic Steve who tragically passed-away in 2006.

Sweet: 'I married this incredible bloke 30 years ago today,' she wrote. 'What an adventure! Love and legacy live on'

Speaking to Anh Do on his Brush With Fame program, she recalled the moment she met Steve and wondered whether he was single.

'I wasn't even dating, I wasn't even looking,' Terri, who was then 27, said of Steve, 29, when they met in 1991.

Love story: Terri has been open about her romance with iconic Steve who tragically passed-away in 2006. On special occasions, she often speaks of their deep love for each other

'I was 27-years-old, and figured my life was going to be my work, and met Steve and fell instantly in love,' she added.

Terri said she was impressed by how cool and calm Steve was while feeding a crocodile for a show.

'I thought this man is the most incredible guy I have ever seen. He's probably married. He's gotta be taken,' she said.

'I wasn't even dating, I wasn't even looking': Speaking to Anh Do on his Brush With Fame program, she recalled the moment she met Steve and wondered whether he was single

It was then she plucked-up the courage to talk to him - but to her dismay Steve immediately said he wanted to introduce her to his 'girlfriend'.

'I just felt utterly crushed, and then he called out, 'Hey, Suey!' And here comes this little dog, Suey. I went, 'Boom! No girlfriend!''

Steve and Terri tied the knot in 1992 in her home state of Oregon.

Steve died in September 2006 at the age of 44, after being pierced in the chest by a stingray barb while filming a wildlife documentary in Queensland.

Terri never remarried following the death of her husband.

The couple welcomed two children - daughter Bindi, 23, and son Robert, 18.
She made waves in the boardroom during her short-lived stint on The Celebrity Apprentice Australia.

And The Real Housewives Of Melbourne star Gamble Breaux certainly meant business as she strutted down the footpath in Toorak last week.

Joined by her long-time friend, celebrity fashion designer Alin Le'Kal, the reality star showcased her svelte legs in a frilly black mini skirt and matching thigh-high boots.

Legging it! The Real Housewives Of Melbourne star Gamble Breaux (left) showed off off her trim pins in a black mini skirt as strolled with celebrity fashion designer Alin Le'Kal (right) in Melbourne last week

The blonde completed her look with a black denim jacket, matching Chanel handbag, long earrings and a pair of cat-eye sunglasses.

Alin, who has made several appearances on The Real Housewives Of Melbourne, looked effortlessly chic in a beige coat, cream jeans and a matching top.

His look was topped off with a gold pendant necklace, brown leather brogues and a pair of square-framed sunglasses.

Black out! The blonde completed her look with a black denim jacket, matching Chanel handbag, long earrings and a pair of cat-eye sunglasses

Gamble put on a playful display as she chatted to her pal, whose designs can be found in exclusive boutiques across the globe, including in Paris.

Over the years, Alin has amassed an international celebrity following, dressing the likes of Lindsay Lohan, Nicole Scherzinger, Kelly Rowland, Paris Hilton, Julia Morris and Sophie Monk.

Alin also created the show-stopping costume worn by The Voice's Sheldon Riley during his performance at the Eurovision Song Contest 2022 in Turin, Italy.

Jumping for joy! Gamble put on a playful display as she chatted to her pal, whose designs can be found in exclusive boutiques across the globe, including in Paris

Style star: Alin's look was topped off with a gold pendant necklace, brown leather brogues and a pair of square-framed sunglasses

Weighing a hefty 38 kilograms, Alin's extravagant creation took almost 2,500 hours to create and features over 90,000 pearls, crystals and feathers.

'This design was something different to what Sheldon usually wears. He usually goes for black and dark colours, but this time we wanted to go for an angelic look, lots of white. Something avant garde and otherworldly,' Alin previously told Daily Mail Australia.

'We tried to make it look as masculine as possible, while still giving it a modern edge because [Sheldon] likes to push boundaries,' he added.

Fashion icon: While Alin is based in Victoria, his designs can be found in exclusive boutiques across the globe, including in Paris. Alin is pictured with Real Housewife of Melbourne's Simone Elliott (left) and celebrity cosmetic nurse Alex Pike (right)
Ashley Greene cradled her growing baby bump on Saturday evening after grabbing dinner at Catch Steak LA in West Hollywood.

The Twilight actress, 35, stunned in a sleeveless black maxi dress with a plunging neckline.

Greene carefully strolled down the restaurant's steps in a pair of black peep toe heels and with a faux leather purse in hand.

Mom-to-be: Ashley Greene cradled her growing baby bump on Saturday evening after grabbing dinner at Catch Steak LA in West Hollywood

Her lightened brunette hair was parted to one side and styled in loose curls that cascaded down her back and chest.

As for makeup, the Florida native rocked a glowy complexion and a generous amount of pink blush on her cheeks.

She sculpted her eyebrows with a taupe brow pencil and doused her lips in a nude pink gloss.

While waiting at the valet, Greene beamed in the direction of passersby and shutterbugs with her hand resting atop her bump.

Stunning: The Twilight actress, 35, stunned in a sleeveless black maxi dress with a plunging neckline

She is expecting her first child with husband Paul Khoury.

She married the Australian TV personality in 2018.

Greene revealed her pregnancy in a post that was shared to Instagram in late March and included a heartfelt message to Khoury.

Elegant: Greene carefully strolled down the restaurant's steps in a pair of black peep toe heels and with a faux leather purse in hand

Date night: She was joined by husband Paul Khoury

'I love you more than I've ever loved anything and somehow my heart just keeps expanding to love you EVEN more,' began the Aftermath star.

'I cannot wait to watch you share your light, love, and passion with our baby.'

In a slideshow of black-and-white snaps, the couple posed closely as Green carried a sonogram in her hand.

Another showed the actress hopping on Khoury's back as he showed off the sonogram image to the camera.

Expecting: She is expecting her first child with Khoury (pictured). Greene revealed her pregnancy in a post that was shared to Instagram in late March and included a heartfelt message to Khoury

Updates: Since then, Greene has been sharing pregnancy updates with her nearly 2million followers; Greene pictured in May

Since then, Greene has been sharing pregnancy updates with her nearly 2million followers.

On Friday, the Pan Am alum boasted that she finally 'popped' and provided some insight into her go-to maternity clothing.

'We've popped... and a stretchy LBD is my best friend. #babyontheway,' captioned Greene, who modeled a short black dress styled with a muted green jacket.
She's set to star in the forthcoming action-comedy Mafia Mamma alongside Monica Belluci.

And Toni Collette was seen on the Rome, Italy set of the forthcoming mob film on Friday.

The Australian actress, 49, wowed in a pink blouse and billowing white pants for the European shoot.

Pretty in pink! Toni Collette was seen on the Rome, Italy set of her forthcoming mob film Mafia Mamma on Friday

Toni wore dark sandals on her feet and covered her wavy blonde tresses with a tan hat as she strode the streets of Rome.

At one point she shared an ice cream with her hunky co-star Giulio Corso.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Mafia Mamma 'follows a suburban American woman who inherits her grandfather's mafia empire and exceeds all expectations as the new head of the family business, including her own'.

Ice cool: The Australian actress, 49, wowed in a pink blouse and billowing white pants for the European shoot

Leading man: At one point she shared an ice cream with her hunky co-star Giulio Corso (pictured right)

The photos come after the Oscar-nominated actress reflected on ageing ahead of her 50th birthday in November.

Speaking to Stellar magazine last month, Collette admitted that she faced struggles over the past decade and is looking forward to a starting a new chapter.

'I found 40 psychologically difficult,' she said.

Golden age: Collette, 49, recently revealed that she feels comfortable turning 50 after finding her 40s 'psychologically difficult'

'For me, the past decade has been a treasure-trove of opportunities for learning life lessons, big and small. I finally feel like I'm really at home in myself. So I'm excited and, apparently contrarily, rather comfortable about turning 50.'

The Australian actress exclaimed that she was looking forward to what's to come and that 50 is not the cut-off point anymore but rather an invitation to embrace herself unconditionally.

'That, I believe, is why older female actors are soaring. As they grow to know themselves, they potentially also accept themselves,' she said.

'Then there's nothing to hide, nothing to lose, no approval to seek  and everything to share as actors.'
Gigi Hadid looked typically chic on a rare night away from her daughter Khai on Saturday night in New York City.

While enjoying some time for herself, the 27-year-old supermodel expertly styled a pair of wide leg purple cargo pants and a white T-shirt as she flashed a hint of her flat midriff.

Showcasing her eye for style, the runway star donned an oversized white shirt which added to the overall eye-catching look.

Night out: Gigi Hadid looked typically chic on a rare night away from her 20-month-old daughter Khai on Saturday night in New York City.

The cover girl oozed confidence as she stepped out in a pair of cream lace up chunky sole boots.

She accessorized her fashion forward ensemble with some gold jewellery and a cream handbag as she headed for dinner in one of The Big Apple's trendy restaurants.

Her gorgeous platinum blonde locks were tied up into a tight pony tail for the duration of the outing.

Out and about: She accessorized her fashion forward ensemble with some gold jewellery and a cream handbag as she headed for dinner in one of The Big Apple's trendy restaurants

Last month Gigi marked her second Mother's Day as a mom by sharing a rare glimpse of her daughter.

After paying tribute to her own mom Yolanda by sharing several throwback photos of them together on the beach, the beauty uploaded an image of herself and 20-month-old daughter Khai.

In the image, she and her mini-me could be seen looking down at some beautiful tulips as they appeared to be on her somewhere near her Pennsylvania farm.

Gigi shares Khai with her on-again, off-again partner Zayn Malik, who she allegedly had a 'destructive relationship' with prior to him reportedly assaulting her mother.

Doting mom: Last month the Vogue cover girl marked her second Mother's Day as a mom by sharing a rare glimpse of her daughter

It's been a busy year for Gigi as she is set to replace Alexa Chung on season two of Netflix 's Next In Fashion.

The fashion industry personality will co-host the next series alongside Queer Eye's Tan France , 38, who presented the first season alongside Alexa.

Both Gigi and Tan confirmed the news on Instagram in January, writing: 'Who would have thought when we met over Facetime 4 years ago that we'd be hosting NEXT IN FASHION TOGETHER!'

Their identical social media posts continued: 'You read that right! The secret's out. You better get ready, casting is now open.'

New show: It's been a busy year for Gigi as she is set to replace Alexa Chung on season two of Netflix 's Next In Fashion alongside close friend Tan France

Alongside the news, the fashionistas posted a photo of themselves putting on a friendly display at a fashion bash.

Series one of the fashion competition hit Netflix in January 2020.

It saw a group of innovative designers go head-to-head to become the next big name in the industry, and win a $250,000 cash prize and the chance to debut their collection with Net-a-Porter.

Ready to shoot: 'Want to say, with only a couple weeks left, that shooting this show alongside my brother @tanfrance has been a joy of my life,' she gushed in a recent post

Last month, Gigi was seen with the script for the show.

'Cant believe were almost a month into making a new season of @nextinfashion.

'Want to say, with only a couple weeks left, that shooting this show alongside my brother @tanfrance has been a joy of my life.

'I cant wait for you all to meet these designers- an amazing, talented, sweet, cool, deserving group of humans ! && for them to share themselves and their creations with the world! We have so much in store for you.

'THANK YOU to my new family at @netflix - Tanny, our EPs, every single person on the crew, and designers in the competition. It is an honor to work with you.'
Kyly Clarke has been on a fitness journey and she was showing off her gains on Sunday night.

The 40-year-old stunned in a black frock at the Sydney premiere of Elvis at the State Theatre in Sydney.

The former WAG rocked the red carpet in a midriff top and skirt combination which featured a racy side split.

Wow: Kyly Clarke (pictured) has been on a fitness journey and she was showing off her gains on Sunday night

Her gym-honed abs were on display, as were the beauty's trim pins which were highlighted by a very high split on the side.

The split, which ran past Kyly's hip, featured knotted detailing and gave a tantalising glimpse at her shapely thigh.

Kyly added a pair of statement hoop earrings with pearl drops, as well as a number of rings.

Looking good: The 40-year-old stunned in a black frock at the Sydney premiere of Elvis at the State Theatre in Sydney

Red carpet ready: The former WAG rocked the red carpet in a midriff top and skirt combination which featured a racy side split

Fit: Her gym-honed abs were on display, as were the beauty's trim pins which were highlighted by a very high split on the side

She completed the ensemble with a pair of black heels with a pointed design and carried a purse with a gold chain strap.

For makeup, the television personality chose a very natural makeup palette with a peachy blush and pink-nude lipstick.

The brunette wore her locks down around her face in soft waves, and appeared to be having fun at the premiere.

Woah: The split, which ran past Kyly's hip, featured knotted detailing and gave a tantalising glimpse at her shapely thigh

So stunning: Kyly added a pair of statement hoop earrings with pearl drops, as well as a number of rings

Kyly has been showing off her gym workouts on social media in recent months as she increases her fitness.

She recently revealed she is in the 'best shape of her life', more than two years after her split with ex-husband Michael Clarke.

She showed off her sensational physique for the cover of Body + Soul magazine in January to celebrate reaching her fitness goals.

On fire: She completed the ensemble with a pair of black heels with a pointed design and carried a purse with a gold chain strap

Made up: For makeup, the television personality chose a very natural makeup palette with a peachy blush and pink-nude lipstick

Inside, she revealed she was aiming to have the 'best legs she's ever had' when she started her fitness journey.

'I'm never going to be 20 again, I don't want to be, but I want to work with what I have,' she said.

'I'd be really proud of myself if people were to think that I was a role model of someone who's 40 and can still achieve their fitness goals.'
Alan Cumming's missing chimpanzee friend Tonka has been found alive after his owner admitted to faking his death to avoid turning him over to an ape sanctuary.

Tonka was last seen in a cage, which animal welfare charity PETA claimed was 'filthy,' in a controversial breeding facility in Missouri called Missouri Primate Foundation - but was unable to be located after it closed.

The ape - who starred alongside 57-year-old Alan in 1997 film Buddy, was said to have died last May from heart failure after a stroke - his owner Tonia Haddix claimed - with a declaration and court documents submitted to a Missouri judge stating Tonka's body was burned in a fire pit.

But, in a bizarre twist, on Thursday Tonka was found in Haddix's Missouri home with Rolling Stone stating the chimp had 'access to a 60-inch TV and a tablet device' and recently attended a St Patrick's Day party.

Say what? Alan Cumming's missing chimpanzee friend Tonka has been found alive after his owner admitted to faking his death to avoid turning him over to an ape sanctuary (pictured in 1997 at the Buddy premiere)

When asked if she had lied, Haddix told the publication: ''Oh absolutely, 100 percent' and said she had faked Tonka's death to avoid sending him to the Center for Great Apes sanctuary in Wauchula, Florida - despite a judge ordering this.

PETA also claims that Haddix had booked for Tonka to be euthanised on June 2 - although she denies this and says it was merely a standard check-up.

PETA says Haddix's story unfolded when they received a recording of a phone call where she 'confessed that [Tonka] was still alive but would be euthanized on June 2.'

He wants to help: In April, Hollywood star Alan had offered a $10,000 reward for anyone who could locate the missing chimpanzee

Her home was searched by authorities as s part of an emergency court order obtained by PETA - who she has been battling in court since 2018.

In April, Hollywood star Alan had offered a $10,000 reward for anyone who could locate the missing chimpanzee. PETA shared it would add another $10,000 to that number bringing the reward to $20,000.

After lying under oath about Tonka's fate, Haddix now potentially finds herself in contempt of court but says: 'Honey, Ive been held in contempt of court three times. I have paid $50 a day [in fines]. Ive been through the mill. Im sure that therell be some jail time in this.

'Do I care? No, I dont care. Its because its about that kid. As long as that kid is safe, I dont care about nothing out there.

Haddix also claims there is a documentary being filmed about her legal battle - as PETA push on with their plans to move Tonka to a sanctuary>

They are bringing in an independent veterinarian to assess whether Tonka is fit to be transported to the sanctuary - but Haddix says she believes he won't survive the journey and will die as a result of losing human contact.

Wow: On Thursday Tonka was found in a Missouri home with Rolling Stone stating the chimp had 'access to a 60-inch TV and a tablet device' and recently attended a St Patrick's Day party (pictured 1997)

Tonka just cannot tolerate that, she explains. If anybody knows Tonka, Tonka is not a normal chimpanzee. He is a people chimpanzee because he was raised for the movie sets and he could care less about other chimpanzees. He doesnt act like another chimpanzee, he loves people.

PETAs attorney Jared Goodman said in a statement: 'After months of searching, Tonka has finally been found and help is on the way.

'He has endured nearly a year of isolation and likely needs urgent care, but if all goes well, PETA will soon arrange for him to be moved to a lush sanctuary where hell have a chance for a real life at last.'

Haddix also described Tonka as her best friend and said she will die if he is taken away from her.

Back when Tonka's disappearance was reported, Alan spoke out about the animal star in a statement shared this week.

Cumming said, 'During the months we filmed together, baby Tonka and I became good friends, playing and grooming each other and just generally larking about.'

He added, 'It's horrible to think he might in a cage in a dark basement somewhere or have met some other fate, so I'm appealing to whoever knows what has become of him to please come forward claim the reward.'

At the film premiere in Los Angeles in 1997, he was seen beaming as he held onto Tonka, who was young at the time.

The Missouri Primate Foundation was where chimps were bred then sold to private owners; it is also where animals would be rented out for movies and parties.

PETA had sued the Missouri Primate Foundation over the chimpanzee's living conditions. The organization said the enclosures were also 'barren.'

PETA was then allowed to take Tonka and six other chimpanzees to a sanctuary.

But when PETA arrived to move Tonka in July 2021 the animal could not be found.

According to PETA: 'Owner Tonia Haddix claimed that [Tonka] had 'died,' but told various stories that didn't add up and failed to prove that this was the case. She had previously stated that PETA would never get him. In January, a judge found that mystery surrounds the primate's disappearance and that Haddix's testimony was not credible, leaving PETA and Cumming to try to determine his whereabouts or perhaps his final resting place.'

He loved his pal Tonga: Here Cumming is seen in the film as two chimps play on a see-saw

The film Buddy was about wealthy eccentric Trudy (Rene Russo) who collects wild animals.

She then meets the sicky young gorilla Buddy and raises him as her own child, dressing him in up and training him.

But as Buddy grows older and larger, Trudy is unable to restrain him from turning increasingly violent, according to the film's synopsis.

The story is loosely based on a real life socialite from the 1920s who raised animals in her mansion.

She wanted to protest 'inhumane zoo conditions,' according to the Tampa Bay Times.
Helena Bonham Carter spent Saturday afternoon packing on the PDA with her boyfriend Rye Dag Holmboe.

The 55-year-old actress looked happier than ever as she smooched her art historian beau, 33, on a leisurely dog walk in West London.

The couple embraced for the tender moment before later heading off for an afternoon tea to celebrate the Queen's Platinum Jubilee.

Loved up: Helena Bonham Carter, 55, packed on the PDA with boyfriend Rye Dag Holmboe, 33, as they enjoyed a dog walk in London on Saturday

Helena showed off her unique sense of style for the outing in black top with alabaster lace detailing which she teamed with a gathered floral skirt.

The Crown star has been in a relationship with the academic for four years following her split from film director Tim Burton in 2014.

Slipping her feet into brown trainers Helena wrapped a contrasting burnt orange scarf around her neck as she carried her belongings in a cross body bag.

Day out: The couple embraced for the tender moment before later heading off for an afternoon tea to celebrate the Queen's Platinum Jubilee

Appearing youthful with a face free of make-up the Sweeney Todd actress tied her dark tresses his in a bow as she balanced spectacles on her head.

Rye cut an equally casual figure as he embraced the sunny weather in a salmon shirt and cerulean shorts.

Opting for a pair of leather sandals he wore his curled hair in a relaxed style as he peered through clear framed glasses.

Happy couple: The Crown star has been in a relationship with the academic for four years following her split from film director Tim Burton in 2014 (pictured together in 2019)

The couple hugged and kissed in the sunshine as they watched their dogs, with Rye later tenderly pecking Helena on the forehead.

After walking their pooches on Hampstead Heath the loved up pair headed over to the swanky Ginger and White's cafe for afternoon tea to celebrate the monarch's milestone.

This comes after the actress told the Daily Mail's Richard Eden she felt 'very lucky' to have met Rye.

Lunch: After walking their pooches on Hampstead Heath the loved up pair headed over to the swanky Ginger and White's cafe for afternoon tea to celebrate the monarch's milestone

Helena and her former long-term partner, director Tim Burton, 63, famously lived in inter-connecting houses during their 13-year relationship, with each property decorated to their own his 'n' hers tastes and personal styles.

However, the Daily Mail's Richard Eden reported last year that she had made the step of choosing to share a home with her academic boyfriend, even adding to their domestic bliss by adopting house rabbits.

The couple met at a wedding in 2018, following Helena's split from Tim in 2014.

Explaining how they met, she told The Guardian: 'A totally random thing, which both of us nearly didn't go to, so it was one of those moments that was so chance and ended up determining so much. A really happy accident, and it's an amazing thing.'

Lucky lady: This comes after the actress told Daily Mail's Richard Eden at a recent event, she felt 'very lucky' to have met Rye (pictured earlier this year)

Addressing the couple's 22-year age gap, the actress previously said in an interview with The Times:

'Everybody ages at a different rate. My boyfriend is unbelievably mature. He's an old soul in a young body, what more could I want?

'People are slightly frightened of older women, but he isn't. Women can be very powerful when they're older.'

She shares children Billy, 18, and Nell, 14, with ex-husband Hollywood director and writer Tim Burton.
Olivia DeJonge is basking in the spotlight thanks to her role in Baz Luhrmann's new Elvis biopic.

On Sunday, the 24-year-old Australian actress was commanding attention at the Sydney red carpet premiere of the film.

The Melbourne-born beauty opted for a slinky pink frock, and risked a wardrobe malfunction in the blush-toned number which showed off ample bust.

Looking good: Olivia DeJonge is basking in the spotlight thanks to her role in Baz Luhrmann's new Elvis biopic

Olivia placed a lot of faith in her fashion tape, with the top half of the frock seemingly taped down to avoid showing off too much.

The gorgeous gown skirted around her slender frame, fanning out to a long train that added maximum drama, as well as featuring a low-cut back.

The stunner opted for a 1960s style half-up hairdo, as well as bold red lipstick and rosy cheeks with a porcelain finish foundation.

Stunner: On Sunday, the 24-year-old Australian actress was commanding attention at the Sydney red carpet premiere of the film

A look: The Melbourne-born beauty opted for a slinky pink frock, and risked a wardrobe malfunction in the blush-toned number which showed off ample bust

Stuck down: Olivia placed a lot of faith in her fashion tape, with the top half of the frock seemingly taped down to avoid showing off too much

Drama: The gorgeous gown skirted around her slender frame and featured a low-cut back

She kept her accessories minimal, with a glistening choker necklace and matching snake bracelet.

Posing on the red carpet alongside her co-stars Tom Hanks and Austin Butler, as well as director Baz Luhrmann, the beauty was in her element.

Olivia is best known for her role on Netflix's mystery series The Society and her lead role in M Night Shyamalan's The Visit.

Pretty: The stunner opted for a 1960s style half-up hairdo, as well as bold red lipstick and rosy cheeks with a porcelain finish foundation

Details: She kept her accessories minimal, with a glistening choker necklace and matching snake bracelet

Gorgeous! The dress had a long train that fanned out behind her

All the gang is here: Posing on the red carpet alongside her co-stars Tom Hanks and Austin Butler, as well as director Baz Luhrmann, the beauty was in her element. All pictured

She added the prestigious project of Elvis to her resume in 2019, with the announcement that she would be playing Priscilla Presley, now 77, in the film.

She joins Austin Butler as the King of Rock and Roll and Tom Hanks, who plays a Svengali-like role of Elvis' longtime manager Colonel Tom Parker.

Luhrmann, the mastermind behind musical projects including Moulin Rouge and Strictly Ballroom, said of Olivia: 'Olivia is capable of manifesting the complex depth and presence that has made Priscilla Presley an icon in her own right.

What a role: Olivia added the prestigious project of Elvis to her resume in 2019, with the announcement that she would be playing Priscilla Presley, now 77, in the film

Luhrmann said of Olivia: 'Olivia is capable of manifesting the complex depth and presence that has made Priscilla Presley an icon in her own right'

'She's an extremely talented young actor and the perfect counterpoint to Austin [Butler]'s Elvis,' the director added

'She's an extremely talented young actor and the perfect counterpoint to Austin [Butler]'s Elvis.'

Olivia may have come to Luhrmann's attention thanks to her performance in the quasi-Shakespearean series Will, which was created by his longtime writing partner Craig Pearce.

She also currently stars in HBO Max's true crime series, The Staircase, based on the life of Michael Peterson and the death of his wife Kathleen, alongside Colin Firth and Toni Collette.
US Democracy Institute founder Patrick Basham doubts the Joe Biden strategy is working, and Kyiv is losing support. The poll that expressed reservations due to US President Joe Biden's shortcomings wants to see Russian President Vladimir Putin as a leader.

The US Pushes the Proxy War in Ukraine

The think tank's recent poll found that only 36 percent of American respondents accept the administration's policy, and 53 percent are against it, reported RT.

Among the respondents, 45 percent accept Ukraine is losing the war, but 40 percent cannot accept the loss. The question is why Washington cannot make the US keep its proxy war supporting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Basham says US opinion is shifting over the Ukraine crisis on how the president is seen as lacking in his policy for Ukraine is alarming in the developments in the countries involved.

Sanctions imposed by the president and pro-Ukraine surrogates thought that Russia would cave in quickly and the Russian people would rise against Vladimir Putin is a total failure.

Biden and his allies anticipated that American economic pressure on Russia would quickly end the conflict and that the intentional pummeling of the Russian economy might lead to public anger and President Putin's removal from office by the Russian people.

It only boomeranged back, and the US leader has added this to his mostly unsatisfactory tenure creating distrust in the administration and promises, just like the loss of Afghanistan, mentioned CNN.

Basham said the Biden administration's strategy that has thrown economic, military, and political predictions only have been trashed due to supporting Kyiv. Russia's resilience that the west discounts at its peril, noted Foreign Policy.

Read Also: Volodymyr Zelensky Children: Does the Ukraine President Have Kids?

The American public has lost confidence in the 46th president, whose policy and actions have brought about a negative image to the country before the Ukraine conflict that has gotten worse.

Biden is the most vilified president whose inability to govern is not deserving of the Oval Office because of his actions that he denies losing Afghanistan.

It gets worse as Russia sees the Biden administration as the symbol of impotence that shows a weak US influence in Ukraine is a weakness on the international stage.

Biden Administration Stains America's Image

The government has proven to fail in gaining any support for its economic or military policies due to the failure of the president, vice-president, secretary of state, and national security advisers has not been convincing enough to drive even an untrue narrative for the Ukraine policy.

In the initial two months of the conflict, social media made up false stories about Russia losing, but it was Zelensky on the losing end. It seems the White House cannot get its act right, which seems unbelievable.

Recently, mainstream media has been telling the truth that Ukraine is losing, retreating, and surrendering to the Russian army, making Washington's line that Moscow is losing extremely doubtful. Mariupol and other areas in the DPR and LPR are now Russian-controlled.

American-based media should report the truth, not risking the viewers and readers to question how Russia got the upper hand if people asked how the US lost. It seems the White House shot itself in the foot and risks disaster.

Basham calls the Biden strategy to fight Russia failing, and Kyiv's losses will make it harder for this administration to justify their policy.

Related Article: Biden Administration Divided Over Russian Sanctions That Have Not Deterred Putin, Instead Boomeranged Back on the US

@ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
She never fails to turn heads with her eye-catching sense of style.

And Kimberley Garner looked radiant as ever as she enjoyed an evening out at Annabel's in London to watch the Jubilee party on Saturday.

The former Made In Chelsea star, 31, showcased her jaw-dropping figure as she donned a black mini dress with a large ribbon detail.

Stunning: Kimberley Garner looked radiant as ever in a black mini dress as she enjoyed an evening out at Annabel's in London to watch the Jubilee party on Saturday

The garment also featured a cut out detail along the centre which highlighted Kimberley's toned midriff.

Adding height to her frame with a pair of tan open-toed heels, Kimberley styled her blonde locks into a ponytail.

Also sporting a silver bracelet, the star completed her look with a light palette of makeup.

Despite now enjoying huge fame as a swimwear designer, Kimberley has previously revealed how she used to pretend to be an intern when she first started the business as nobody took her seriously.

Fashion: The garment featured a large ribbon and a cut out detail along the centre which highlighted Kimberley's toned midriff

However, the property heiress insisted she's more than just the face of her line Kimberley London and is involved with every aspect of creating her sell-out swimwear range.

She told MailOnline: 'I think people sometimes think that Im only the face, but I am responsible for every bit of the business.

'I was 18 when I started my first company - I came up with an idea, stayed up for days learning how to register the company and teaching myself. It became very successful overnight.'

Glamour: Kimberley styled her blonde locks into a ponytail for the outing

Trendy: Also sporting a silver bracelet, the star completed her look with a light palette of makeup

She explained: 'However, as I was only 18, no one ever imagined it was mine. I was a young blonde girl with a soft voice.

'No one would take me seriously or realise it was my company. So, I pretended to be the Intern!

'I handled all the meetings, phone calls, and emails for the company. When it became a success, I put all the revenues into starting Kimberley London.'
Dame Joan Collins was the picture of elegance as she led the procession of Dames during Sunday's Platinum Jubilee Pageant.

The Hollywood Icon, 89, was joined by her husband Percy Gibson, 57, in a cream vintage jaguar as the celebrations for her majesty's 70-years on the throne drew to a close.

Following close behind Dame Joan for the 'Dames in their Jags' section was fashion model Twiggy, real name Lesley Lawson, 72, and GBBO's Prue Leith who were both honoured by Her Majesty in 2019 and 2021 respectively.

Style queen: Joan Collins, 89, was the picture of elegance as she led a motorcade of Dames in vintage Jaguars as part of the star-studded Platinum Jubilee Pageant on Sunday (pictured with husband Percy Gibson, 57)

The classy motorcade was part of the afternoon's second act, The Time of Our Lives progressing through seven decades of culture, music and fashion, within the four-section pageant.

Former Dynasty Joan actress looked gorgeous in a pale pink ensemble, complete with matching chapel and long chic scarf.

Adding glamour to the look Dame opted for lavender opera gloves and a pink fascinator with netting detail.

Following: Following close behind Dame Joan was fashion model Twiggy, 72 (pictured) and GBBO's Prue Leith who were both honoured by Her Majesty in 2019 and 2021 respectively

The timeless star chose a glamorous palette of make-up for the event with a pop of colour thanks to a bright red lip as well as pearl accessories.

Joan appeared in her element as she sat back in the burgundy upholstered motor waving to the thousands of screaming fans.

Beloved husband Percy looked dapper in a light green suit which he layered over a lavender shirt and silver printed tie.

Glamour: Adding glamour to the look Dame Joan opted for lavender opera gloves and a pink fascinator with netting detail.

Over here! Joan appeared in her element as she sat back in the burgundy upholstered motor waving to the thousands of screaming fans

Beaming next to his wife the couple seemed in high spirits as their chauffer whisked them along the mall.

Close behind was 1960s fashion model Twiggy, who opted for stylish cream suit and purple fascinator.

Wearing her blonde locks in a simple style the beloved star held a check blanket over her knees in a bit to keep warm.

Royal wave: Beloved husband Percy looked dapper in a light green suit which he layered over a lavender shirt and silver printed tie

Last but not least: The third Dame in the procession was chef and Great British Bakeoff host Prue Leith

The third Dame in the procession was chef and Great British Bakeoff host Prue Leith.

The television personality looked stylish in a colourful suit as she was joined by her husband John Playfair.

With floral applique decorating the blazer the star wore statement jewellery and a pink scarf which matched her striking spectacles.

Bake Off presenter Prue Leiths vintage Jaguar broke down and had to be pushed by four stewards before being quietly removed from the Pageant

However Prue's appearance was cut short when her vintage Jaguar broke down and had to be pushed by four stewards before being quietly removed from the Pageant.

The 'Dame' section of the Jubilee pageant was dubbed 'hags in Jags', by Joan Collins, who featured in the section alongside Arlene Phillips and Twiggy, real name Dame Lesley Lawson, as they drove down the road in open-topped vintage cars.

Dame Collins gave the section its joke name after being invited to participate alongside six other dames, co-chair Nicholas Coleridge told the Evening Standard.

Also seen in the parade were Dame Floella Benjamin, Dame Darcey Bussell and Dame Zandra Rhodes.
Julianne Moore held hands with her second husband Bart Freundlich after enjoying a hearty Italian meal at Bar Pitti in Manhattan's Greenwich neighborhood on Saturday night.

Impressively, August 23 will mark the 61-year-old Oscar winner and the 52-year-old Sundance Grand Jury Prize nominee's 19th wedding anniversary.

The empty nesters originally met 26 years earlier when Bart directed Julianne (born Julie Anne Smith) in The Myth Of Fingerprints way back in 1996.

Hot date! Julianne Moore held hands with her second husband Bart Freundlich after enjoying a hearty Italian meal at Bar Pitti in Manhattan's Greenwich neighborhood on Saturday night

Julianne was dressed casually for their date night in a black T-shirt with ruched black pants and white trainers while carrying a large black tote bag tucked under her arm.

She wore her famous red locks parted down the middle while rocking a modestly made-up face.

Bart wore a gray plaid shirt unbuttoned over a white T-shirt, along with slim jeans and green-and-white Nike trainers.

'What's really funny about it is that you say years ago, it was 24 years ago, that's what's shocking to us, we are like, "We met 24 years ago?"' Moore marveled on The Drew Barrymore Show in 2020.

'The only thing I can say is I think that you both have to really want to be married. I do feel like I've seen situations where things aren't working out for people because one member of the couple doesn't want to be there. I think if you are both invested in it working out that's important.

Still going strong! Impressively, August 23 will mark the 61-year-old Oscar winner and the 52-year-old Sundance Grand Jury Prize nominee's 19th wedding anniversary

Make-up free outing: But the empty nesters originally met 26 years earlier when Bart directed Julianne (born Julie Anne Smith) in The Myth of Fingerprints way back in 1996

Moore marveled on The Drew Barrymore Show in 2020: 'You really have to have a good time. My god, I think they have to make you laugh, if they don't make you laugh it's just deadly...it doesn't feel like a long time'

'You really have to have a good time. My god, I think they have to make you laugh, if they don't make you laugh it's just deadly. And somebody asked me the other day if it felt long a long time and I was like, "Oddly no it doesn't." That's what has been nice about it, it doesn't feel like a long time.'

The two-time Emmy winner divorced her first husband, stage director John Gould Rubin, in 1995 after nine years of marriage.

Earlier on Saturday, Julianne and Freundlich joined their 24-year-old son Caleb and his girlfriend of five years, Kibriyaa Morgan, at an anti-gun violence rally in Foley Square.

The organizations Everytown for Gun Safety and Moms Demand Action hosted the Annual Walk in Solidarity with Survivors, which kicked off at noon.

On May 20, Caleb received his master's degree in music/screen scoring at NYU Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development.

'#WearOrange': Earlier on Saturday, the two-time Emmy winner and Freundlich joined their 24-year-old son Caleb (2-R) and his girlfriend of five years, Kibriyaa Morgan (M), at an anti-gun violence rally in Foley Square

'#Bvlgaripartners': The married couple are also parents of 20-year-old daughter Liv (L, pictured May 5), a sophomore attending Northwestern University in Illinois

The aspiring composer got his big break last year scoring his father's short film Intersection, one of the 13 shorts of the COVID-set anthology film With/In.

The married couple are also parents of 20-year-old daughter Liv, a sophomore attending Northwestern University in Illinois.

In September, Julianne will fly to Greenland and Iceland to portray retired physiotherapist Verna in Lynne Ramsay's cruise ship-set revenge thriller Stone Mattress opposite Sandra Oh, according to Deadline.

'I am beyond excited for the opportunity to work with these two!' In September, Julianne will fly to Greenland and Iceland to portray retired physiotherapist Verna in Lynne Ramsay's cruise ship-set revenge thriller Stone Mattress opposite Sandra Oh

'Coming soon!' But first, audiences can next catch Moore as Spruce Haven CEO Evelyn Katz opposite Finn Wolfhard (L) in Jesse Eisenberg's feature directorial debut, which A24 Films will release later this year

On May 23, Moore  who boasts 3M Twitter/Instagram followers  wrote of the Amazon Prime Video project: 'I am beyond excited for the opportunity to work with these two!'

But first, audiences can next catch the Dear Evan Hansen actress as Spruce Haven CEO Evelyn Katz opposite Finn Wolfhard in Jesse Eisenberg's feature directorial debut, which A24 Films will release later this year.

Oscar winner Emma Stone produced the mother-son dramedy - based off of Eisenberg's own 2020 Audible Original, which has a 66% critic approval rating (out of 87 reviews) on Rotten Tomatoes.
Three-time Grammy nominee Kate Bush issued a rare statement on Sunday thanking fans of Netflix's Stranger Things for the surprising resurgence of her 1985 hit Running Up That Hill (A Deal With God).

'You might've heard that the first part of the fantastic, gripping new series of Stranger Things has recently been released on Netflix. It features the song, Running Up That Hill which is being given a whole new lease of life by the young fans who love the show  I love it too!' the British 63-year-old wrote on her official website.

'Because of this, Running Up That Hill is charting around the world and has entered the UK chart at No. 8. It's all really exciting! Thanks very much to everyone who has supported the song. I wait with bated breath for the rest of the series in July. Best wishes, Kate.'

Delighted: Kate Bush (pictured in 2014) issued a rare statement Sunday thanking fans of Netflix's Stranger Things for the resurgence of her 1985 hit Running Up That Hill (A Deal With God)

In the fourth season of the Duffer Brothers' hit show, Running Up That Hill happens to be grieving teen Max Mayfield's (Sadie Sink) favorite song, and it unexpectedly saves her life in episode four.

Bush's alt-pop single originally reached No. 30 on the US Billboard Hot 100 but, because of Stranger Things, is currently No. 4 on Spotify Weekly Top Songs Global chart and it's No. 3 on Apple Music's Top 100 Global chart.

The David Garfath-directed, interpretive dance-filled music video has amassed 56.5M views on YouTube  a nearly 15,000% rise from the previous week.

'[Stranger Things music supervisor] Nora Felder came to us pre-pandemic to discuss the idea of using it as Max's song for this season,' Sony Music Publishing's Wende Crowley recalled to Variety last Wednesday.

The British 63-year-old wrote on her website: 'You might've heard that the first part of the fantastic, gripping new series of Stranger Things has recently been released on Netflix. It features the song, Running Up That Hill which is being given a whole new lease of life by the young fans who love the show  I love it too!'

Kate continued: 'Because of this, Running Up That Hill is charting around the world and has entered the UK chart at No. 8. It's all really exciting! Thanks very much to everyone who has supported the song. I wait with bated breath for the rest of the series in July. Best wishes!'

'Kate Bush is selective when it comes to licensing her music': In the fourth season of the Duffer Brothers' hit show, Running Up That Hill happens to be grieving teen Max Mayfield's (Sadie Sink) favorite song, and it unexpectedly saves her life in episode four

'She wanted to make sure it was within the realm of possibility before she got the Duffer Brothers on board with the idea, since the song was going to be "such a focal point to Max's storyline."

'Kate Bush is selective when it comes to licensing her music and because of that, we made sure to get script pages and footage for her to review so she could see exactly how the song would be used.'

Running Up That Hill has also inspired many artists such as Kim Petras, Placebo, Alanis Morissette, Ellie Goulding, Charli XCX, k.d. lang, Grimes, Solange Knowles, Adele and Coldplay.

In 2016, Kate (born Catherine) released a live album of her 22-night London Hammersmith Apollo residency Before the Dawn from 2014.

Still running! Bush's alt-pop single originally reached No. 30 on the US Billboard Hot 100 but, because of Stranger Things, is currently No. 4 on Spotify Weekly Top Songs Global chart and it's No. 3 on Apple Music's Top 100 Global chart

No. 25 on YouTube! The David Garfath-directed, interpretive dance-filled music video has amassed 56.5M views on YouTube - a nearly 15,000% rise from the previous week

Speed of Sound: Running Up That Hill has also inspired many artists such as Kim Petras, Placebo, Alanis Morissette, Ellie Goulding, Charli XCX, k.d. lang, Grimes, Solange Knowles, Adele, and Coldplay (pictured)

But the reclusive raconteur with the four-octave soprano pipes hasn't released new music since her 10th studio album 50 Words for Snow in 2011.

In March, Bush was nominated (for the third time) to be inducted in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame this November, but she did not receive enough votes from fans. Perhaps this will change next year.

On the personal front, Kate is mother to 24-year-old son Albert from her 30-year marriage to guitarist Danny McIntosh.

Last sighting: In 2016, the reclusive raconteur with the four-octave soprano pipes released a live album of her 2014 concert Before the Dawn (pictured), but she hasn't released new music since her 10th studio album 50 Words for Snow in 2011
She's been sharing some stunning snaps from her picturesque getaway in Utah in recent days.

And Kylie Jenner proved she was still dressing to the nines even while she was relaxing on her own when she posted some striking photos of herself in a little black dress on Sunday.

The 24-year-old Kardashians star was unmissable thanks to her red eyeshadow and long pink nails in images she shared on her Instagram Stories.

Black and red: Kylie Jenner, 24, looked glamorous in a little black dress while showing off her red eye shadow on vacation in the Utah desert on Sunday

In the photos, Kylie wore her lustrous raven tresses parted down the middle and resting gracefully across her bare shoulders.

She held one finger up to her plump pout, highlighting the sharp pink claws and her large jeweled heart-shaped ring on her index finger.

She seemed to reference the eye shadow by caption her post with a red asteroid emoji.

Back in black: Later, she gave her 344 million followers a closer look at her sleeveless, curve-hugging LBD while taking a stroll through a gorgeous canyon

Piercing: Another image highlighted her eyes and impeccable eyebrows as she gazed into the camera

Perfect view: The reality star also revealed her perfect view as she sat down to a meal at the Amangiri resort in Canyon Point, Utah, a popular vacation spot for celebrities that she has visited several times in the past

Later, she gave her 344 million followers a closer look at her sleeveless, curve-hugging LBD while taking a stroll through a gorgeous canyon.

Another image highlighted her eyes and impeccable eyebrows as she gazed into the camera.

The reality star also revealed her perfect view as she sat down to a meal at the Amangiri resort in Canyon Point, Utah, a popular vacation spot for celebrities that she has visited several times in the past.

Latest post: Kylie showed off her keen sense of style in a series of photos posted the day before on Instagram that showcased her stunning all-blue ensemble

The day before, the mother of two put her famous curves front and center in a metallic blue co-ord.

The futuristic-looking outfit was made up of a long-sleeved ribbed top and a matching miniskirt.

The beauty maven wowed in the two-piece number, which featured a mock neck and a cutout Diesel emblem at the center.

The logo was also embroidered on the skirt, and it was tripled with Kylie carrying the brand's coordinating blue handbag.

The fashion designer's not-yet-released Fall '22 pieces flattered the reality TV star's voluptuous figure and she kept fans engaged by posting multiple angles.

In her caption Kylie wrote, 'blue might be my new favorite color,' and the post received over three million likes in just a few hours.

Stylish: The 24-year-old mother-of-two put her famous curves front and center in a metallic blue co-ord

Jenner pulled her dark hair back into a neat ponytail that was sectioned off into multiple braids.

Her face was made up with a soft palette of warm tones to bring out her features.

Flawlessly arched eyebrows, blushed cheeks, and a matte pinkish brown color for her lips rounded out the look.

She accessorized with multiple rings worn between both hands, one being the Michael Rodent Skull Ring by The Great Frog.

Closer look: The futuristic-looking outfit was made up of a long-sleeved ribbed top and a matching miniskirt

Stunner: The beauty maven wowed in the two-piece number, which featured a mock neck and a cutout Diesel emblem at the center

The influencer is currently enjoying a getaway with multiple friends, and has been documenting the trip online.

An earlier post showed her cozying up to a gal pal while sitting in the backseat of a vehicle.

Kylie went makeup-free, showing off her clear and sun-kissed complexion while resting her head on her friend's shoulder.

'Pretty brown eyes,' she wrote in a caption with a brown heart emoji.

Best angles: The fashion designer's not-yet-released Fall '22 pieces flattered the reality TV star's voluptuous figure and she kept fans engaged by posting multiple angles

Close friends: An earlier post showed her cozying up to a gal pal while sitting in the backseat of a vehicle

Taking to the photo-sharing app's Stories feature, the high-profile beauty uploaded even more content.

The Kylie Cosmetics founder modeled a long, brown 'pillow dress' from Entire Studios.

She shared multiple outtakes in the innovation fashion piece, which had a halter neck design with a small 'pillow' that wrapped around her neck.

Social engagement: Taking to the photo-sharing app's Stories feature, the high-profile beauty uploaded even more content

Unique look: The Kylie Cosmetics founder modeled a long, brown 'pillow dress' from Entire Studios

Fashionista: Kylie, who has 344 million Instagram followers, allured her admirers with various snapshots in the trendy look

Kylie, who has 344 million Instagram followers, allured her admirers with various snapshots in the trendy look.

She teamed the fashion-forward dress with a pair of Baroque Brown Air Max 1 sneakers.

The $500 footwear design is a collaboration between Nike and her boyfriend, rapper Travis Scott.

Supportive: The $500 footwear design is a collaboration between Nike and her boyfriend, rapper Travis Scott
An Aussie influencer couple known for pushing the boundaries of good taste with their raunchy posts have broken up after two years of dating.

OnlyFans star Mikaela Testa, 22, and 'crypto bro' Atis Paul, 21, called it quits sometime last month, and confirmed the split on social media on Sunday.

Atis was first to address the break-up - which fans had suspected for a week after Mikaela went on holiday without him - during an Instagram Q&A on a flight to Europe.

It's over! Influencer couple Mikaela Testa and Atis Paul have split after two years of dating

After being flooded with questions about why Mikaela wasn't with him, he confirmed they were no longer dating but insisted the decision to end things was mutual.

'I've been getting asked so much if Mik and I are still together. We love each other so much and decided to be friends now,' he said.

'Everything is perfect between us. We both agree it's better that way.'

Done: Atis was first to address the break-up - which fans had suspected for a week after Mikaela went on holiday without him - during an Instagram Q&A on a flight to Europe

Cagey: Mikaela, who is on a girls' trip to Bali, was less forthcoming about the break-up but said the supportive messages from fans were making her 'so emotional'

Mikaela, who is on a girls' trip to Bali, was less forthcoming about the break-up but said the supportive messages from fans were making her 'so emotional'.

'For the fifth time, Atis and I are fine... you guys are making me so emotional. I wish I could hug every single one of you,' she wrote.

'Everything is going to be okay... the answer [to heartbreak] is love and self-care.'

What's going on? There seems to be some confusion about when exactly the pair called it quits, as Mikaela denied split rumours less than a week ago

Hmm: She had responded 'no' alongside a love heart emoji after one of her TikTok followers asked her: 'Did you guys break up?'

There seems to be some confusion about when exactly the pair called it quits, as Mikaela denied split rumours less than a week ago.

She had responded 'no' alongside a love heart emoji after one of her TikTok followers asked her: 'Did you guys break up?'

Mikaela previously revealed in March her relationship with Atis began as an affair when they were both dating other people.

However, there is no suggestion a third party was involved in their recent break-up.

Dangerous liaisons: Mikaela previously revealed in March her relationship with Atis began as an affair when they were both dating other people

Remember this? Mikaela made headlines in 2019 when she posted a video of herself crying hysterically after Instagram took away the 'like counter' on posts

Atis, who was born in Germany before moving to Australia as a child, is an influencer who made his fortune as a cryptocurrency investor.

He is the brother of Anna Paul, who has been called Australia's No. 1 OnlyFans star.

Mikaela is also an OnlyFans creator with an estimated monthly income of $162,000, as well as a model, influencer and occasional viral celebrity.

Rude: Mikaela was banned from TikTok in 2020 for breaching 'multiple community guidelines'

High-profile: Atis is an influencer who made his fortune as a cryptocurrency investor. Mikaela is an OnlyFans creator with an estimated monthly income of $162,000

She made headlines in 2019 when she posted a video of herself crying hysterically after Instagram took away the 'like counter' on posts.

Her racy photos have also resulted in several bans on Instagram and TikTok.

In 2020, she was kicked off TikTok for breaching 'multiple community guidelines'.

She publicly disputed the ban, telling News Corp she hadn't done anything wrong and had been unfairly penalised by TikTok's 'automatic scanner'.

'I am SO a virgin': The couple were criticised in January when they starred in a fast-fashion brand's Valentine's Day campaign that didn't go down well with some viewers

Cashed up: One particularly eyebrow-raising moment took place in a bedroom where Atis shot fake money from a toy gun over his girlfriend's body

Mikaela and Atis were criticised in January when they starred in a fast-fashion brand's Valentine's Day campaign that didn't go down well with some viewers.

The advert for Beginning Boutique, which showed the scantily clad couple getting frisky inside a mansion, was compared to a scene from a porn film.

One particularly eyebrow-raising moment took place in a bedroom where Atis shot fake money from a toy gun over his girlfriend's body.

In another controversial scene, a braless Mikaela swam in the pool wearing a white singlet with the provocative slogan 'I am SO a virgin'.
US officials convinced European nations to help Washington have more allies than Japan and Australia, using China not having western security and values as their excuse.

Neocons drive the Biden administration to face off with Beijing despite warning that it will be a mismatch, and they are patterning it after Ukraine.

Turmoil in the Indo-Pacific

US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman alleges that Allies in Europe are threatened by China, pushing a new world order challenging US hegemony in the contested region, reported RT.

She spoke to the press on video link last Thursday, saying that China is against Europe as the spin this time.

The deputy secretary of state is trying to convince Europe by gaslighting what they interpret as Beijing's intention by inflating fears that it will side with Russia. The reports showing Russia winning despite US assistance to Kyiv cannot be denied, citing Fars News.

She added that when Chinese President Xi Jinping and President Vladimir Putin declared full mutual support in February, she stressed that the People's Republic of China is intent on challenging European nations' security, economy, and values to convince them.

Despite the actions of the US officials like her pushing a new cold war that blames Beijing against western security and values. Saying that the Chinese are interested in Europe as claimed even from thousands of miles is not accurate, noted Mass News.

US officials are convincing European nations to help Washington have more allies other than Japan and Australia, saying China does not have western security and values as their excuse.

Neocons allegedly drove the Biden administration to face off with Beijing despite warning that it would be a mismatch, and they are patterning it after Ukraine.

Read Also: Xi Jinping: 5 Things To Know About China's President

Washington claims it does not want to cut economic ties with China, but it wants Beijing to be on America's terms, which is unacceptable.

Wanting a unified front to face the Chinese Dragon, the US administration uses the supply chain issue to justify its veiled demand on EU allies.

Sherman's statement follows after Secretary of State Antony Blinken remarked that China has all the resources and capability that including military with technology; to some, it seems the administration has plans in the Indo-Pacific, and China is a stumbling block.

American Hegemony, Not Chinese Dominated Future

Blinken is attempting to characterize Beijing as a nation that could move everyone away from the universal values that have bolstered so much of the world's advancement over the last 75 years.

He said President Joe Biden came up with the idea that the next ten years will be crucial, bringing on a belief that Washington and Beijing will clash, noted TrixAbia.

In the face of a rising dispute with China over Taiwan's problems, America has been drumming up support from Pacific nations and Western allies.

Under the One-China policy, China views the island nation as part of its sovereign territory. The 23.5 million-strong country has been self-governing since 1949 but has never proclaimed independence.

The US government keeps ties with Taipei, including selling arms for profit and claiming that China is looking at what happens to Ukraine. Beijing wants peaceful unification, but the US is manipulating Taiwanese opinion.

Essentially, US officials want to have more allies like European nations on their side to show how vital western security and values are important, but China is too strong for the US to handle alone.

Related Article: China Calls Out the US, New Zealand for Criticism Over Recent Activity in the Pacific Region

@ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Hyderabad: In what is believed to be the fallout of gang rivalry involving youngsters, the accused including the minors in the Jubilee Hills minors gangrape case were part of a friends circle till recently. In their attempt to outwit each other during the summer vacation, each group tried its best to embarrass the other.

According to sources close to one of the juvenile accused, these friends-turned-foes used to hang out together before differences emerged within the group. Things went out of hand when the rivalry led to a violent clash, and the issue landed at a police station.

They were let off after the police warned them, and owing to the fact that they were underaged. The group leaders were boastful of their possessions including girl friends. Their ego clash continued till the day they met at the pub in Jubilee Hills, said the source.

Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, the father of one of the juvenile accused said that he was cooperating with the police in the investigation, but the way their identity was being flashed in the media was traumatising his family. I generally never let my kid go to these kinds of places (pub). On that day I gave a nod only after being assured it was a non-alcoholic pub. Let the police do their investigation and we are extending complete cooperation, but the political involvement and media trial are distressing, he said.
Pope Francis will discuss with Ukrainian officials the possibility of a trip to their country amid the continued Russian attacks that destroyed more than 100 churches.

In a question and answer program with children in the Vatican, the 85-year-old pontiff said he would meet with Ukrainian officials soon, according to a Reuters report.

Pope Francis used a wheelchair during the event due to knee pain, which he has endured for quite some time.

"Can you come to Ukraine to save all the children suffering there now?" a Ukrainian boy asked the pope.

Francis responded that the children of Ukraine are always in his thoughts, and he wanted to visit the country. But he admitted that it is a difficult decision for it "could do more harm than good to the rest of the world."

"I have to find the right moment to do it," he said. "Next week, I will receive representatives of the Ukrainian government, who will come here to talk, to talk even about an eventual visit of mine there. We'll see what happens," Francis said, but he did not give further details, according to a Vatican transcript of the event.

Vatican Carefully Balances Diplomacy

The crisis in Ukraine has caused the Vatican to perform a careful diplomatic balancing act, with multiple offers to arbitrate a resolution to the conflict.

In May, Vatican foreign minister Archbishop Paul Gallagher visited Kyiv following the sending of two trusted cardinals to Ukraine and neighboring countries to examine the humanitarian needs of Ukrainian refugees and convey Francis' support, as per a report from Time.

The head of the Roman Catholic Church has criticized Russia's invasion of Ukraine and used the term "unjustified aggression." He also voiced concern for atrocities committed against civilians. Though, he did not mention the name of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Francis has been invited by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko, Major Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk of Ukraine's Byzantine-rite Catholic Church, and Ukraine's ambassador to the Vatican, Andriy Yurash.

Read Also: US Democracy Institute Founder Claims Joe Biden's Strategy Failing Against Russia, Support for Ukraine Insufficient

Russian Invasion Destroys 113 Churches in Ukraine, Including Ancient Ones

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed that Russian shelling has "destroyed" 113 churches in its war against Ukraine, per CNN.

"Among them are the ancient ones," Zelensky stated in his nightly address on Saturday. "Those that withstood World War II but not the Russian occupation."

Among the destroyed churches was the Skete of All Saints of the Sviatohirsk Lavra, built in 1991, and its reconstruction started in 2001, according to the Ukrainian head of state.

Zelensky noted that "three Lavra monks were killed by the Russian shelling on Wednesday. Worship services are forced to be held in the basement."

Sviatohirsk Lavra belongs to the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, which is still regarded to be affiliated with the Russian Orthodox Church in Moscow, "but even this does not stop the Russian army," Zelensky pointed out.

Zelensky urged the Ukrainian Orthodox Church to "draw conclusions" in light of "the support of the Orthodox hierarchs in Russia for the aggression against Ukraine."

President Zelensky said: "The Russian army can stop burning churches. The Russian army can stop destroying cities. The Russian army can stop killing children. If the same person in Moscow just gives such an order. And the fact that there is still no such order is an obvious humiliation for the whole world."

The Catholic News Agency reported in March that Ukraine's spiritual heritage is "being destroyed by bombing," according to a Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church leader.

Major Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk said priests were killed in various areas when Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24.

Related Article: Russian Defense Ministry Claims Kyiv Treats Foreign Volunteers as Cannon Fodder on the Front Lines

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Congress activists raise slogans outside the DGP office seeking justice for minor rape victim on Saturday in Hyderabd. (Deepak Deshpande/DC)

HYDERABAD: Telangana Police on Sunday arrested the fourth accused in connection with the alleged gang-rape of a teenage girl in Hyderabad's Jubilee Hills last week.

Three of the four arrested accused are juveniles.

Inspector Jubilee Hills S Rajashekhar Reddy said, "Police arrest fourth accused in the matter. One more accused has been taken into custody, and now a total of four accused have been arrested." The fifth accused is still absconding.

Telangana Home Minister Mohammed Mahmood Ali has promised that no leniency is being adopted in the Hyderabad gang-rape case while also clarifying that the state police department works without pressure and does not spare the culprits.

The Jubilee Hills police on Saturday arrested two suspects, both juveniles in connection with the gang rape case of a minor girl late last month. Sources said one of the minor accused in the case was arrested in Nellore on Saturday, amid allegations that those involved in the incident were being allowed to flee the city.

Following the arrest of accused Sadudin Malik on Friday evening, the Jubilee Hills police placed two juveniles under arrest on Saturday morning. West Zone DCP Joel Davis said they were being produced before the juvenile court for safe custody.

We had to arrest the two on Saturday morning as Supreme Court guidelines state that the police cannot arrest a minor post sunset. So far, out of the five suspects, three are apprehended. The remaining accused, Umair Khan and another juvenile, are still absconding and efforts are on to nab them, the DCP said.

Eight teams have been formed with personnel from CCS, task force and the city police, to trace and nab Umair Khan and the other juvenile involved in the case. The police had no leads on them yet, sources said. Sources said they did not coordinate before escaping.

Sources close to the investigation revealed that the gang did not plan where and how to escape. We questioned the arrested about the other two but in vain. They seem to have escaped without a plan and scattered. One of the juveniles was caught from Nellore on Saturday, while the other accused, who is the son of a prominent political leader, was caught from the city, sources said, adding that one lead in the case would land the rest behind bars.

The DCP explained that the police had identified five culprits in the case with the help of CC cameras and other technical evidence which was verified thoroughly by the police teams and was also corroborated with the statement of the victim.

On the evening of May 28, a party, by the name of Euphoria, was held at Amnesia pub after it was announced on Instagram by one Osman Ali Khan. The pub reportedly dispersed the crowd at 5 pm, following which the accused offered to drop the victim home. CCTV cameras showed her leaving the pub at 5.30 pm. The gang is said to have first stopped at a bakery and then shifted into another vehicle in which she was sexually assaulted.

Timeline

May 28

1 pm: Party at Amnesia pub started with about 200 students, including minors, hosted by Usmaan Ali Khan.

5 pm: Music was stopped, the place was vacated.

5.30 pm: Victim leave the place with the five suspects in a Mercedes car.

5.30 to 7.30 pm: They stopped by a pastry shop, changed cars. The victim was allegedly raped by two of the accused while three of them stood guard.

7.30 pm: Victim went back to the pub to collect her jacket and left within 5 minutes.

May 31: Victims father approached the Jubilee Hills police alleging sexual assault.

June 1: Victim was sent for counselling at Bharosa Centre.

June 2: Victim shared about the rape.

June 3: Five accused were identified; one of them, Sadudin Malik, was arrested.

June 4: Two more accused, both juveniles, arrested.
The education department, two days ago, announced the release of SSC results on June 4 and above 6.2 lakh students with parents eagerly waited for the results release but in vain. (Representational Image/ DC)

Vijayawada: The AP education department postponed release of SSC exam results scheduled on Saturday to June 6. The education department called for a press meet to release SSC results in Vijayawada on Saturday morning but later, the officials announced postponement of results to June 6 after a lot of discussions. The postponement disappointed nearly 6.2 lakh X Class students and their parents who were eagerly waiting to know the results. The government did not conduct X Class exams for two years due to the Corona pandemic and conducted SSC exams this year.

During the current year, the Andhra Pradesh SSC Board examinations were conducted from April 27 to May 9, at various centres across the state. Allegations of paper leakages marred the SSC exams and the police arrested several people including government teachers on the allegations of malpractice. As many as 6,21,799 candidates appeared for the SSC examination this year across Andhra Pradesh and evaluation of X exam papers was swiftly completed to announce the results in 25 days. The education department, two days ago, announced the release of SSC results on June 4 and above 6.2 lakh students with parents eagerly waited for the results release but in vain.

Earlier the AP government used to give grades to the students in the SSC but the same was changed and the government is awarding marks in the SSC exams.

Students B. Rajesh and S. Raju said the majority of students were planning Intermediate courses according to the marks obtained in subjects in the SSC exams. They said students who scored good marks in mathematics, physics and chemistry would opt for MPC and students getting good marks in science subjects would go for Bi. PC streams. They said they were happy to know their results within 25 days of the SSC exams but the postponement was largely disappointing. They appealed to the government to release SSC results without fail on June 6 honouring the wishes of 6.21 lakh students.

Every year, the education minister releases SSC exams results, but this year the tradition has been changed. It has been decided that special chief secretary, education department B. Rajasekhar will release SSC results and the same was announced. Sources said later objections were raised on the release of results by the officials, hence it was postponed to Monday.

Students Federation of India (SFI) leader M. Someswara Rao alleged that SSC exams results release was postponed due to unavailability of minister for education Botsa Satyanarayana which was severely objectionable. He said this was the first SSC exams released by the YSRC government but it failed in that, hence Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy should take measures for the smooth release of SSC results.

Telugu Desam (TD) MLC Nara Lokesh demanded explanation from the Jagan government to the SSC students on the abrupt postponement of X Class results. TD AP state president K. Atchennaidu alleged that the YSRC government was playing with the lives of SSC students for political gains and sought explanation from the government on X Class results.
There is a strong demand in party circles that the leadership should initiate stringent action against such leaders indulging in illegal activities instead of invoking 'name sake suspensions' from the party.

HYDERABAD: A few leaders of the Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) and their kin continue to embarrass party leadership with their involvement in criminal and other illegal activities. The party has been encountering such instances frequently for the past few months, damaging its image and reputation at a time when Assembly polls are nearing.

Incidents of alleged harassment and abetting suicides in Khammam and Kamareddy by TRS leaders recently and the latest incident of involvement of a TRS leader's son in the Jubilee Hills minor girl's gang rape case has not only invited public wrath but pushed the party into a defensive mode.

All these incidents created a huge public uproar with civil society organisations and Opposition parties the ruling TRS leaders and workers of becoming grossly arrogant and indulging in criminal and other illegal activities such as 'settlements' pertaining to land disputes, financial dealings etc.

There is a strong demand in party circles that the leadership should initiate stringent action against such leaders indulging in illegal activities instead of invoking 'name sake suspensions' from the party.

In January this year, party's Kothagudem MLA Vanama Venkateswara Rao's son Vanama Raghavendra Rao was arrested on charges of abetting suicide of a businessman, his wife and twin daughters. In a purported self-shot video that went viral on social media, the businessman accused the MLA's son of making disparaging remarks about his wife and driving him to take the extreme step.

Soon after, two such incidents were reported in April. A realtor and his mother ended their lives in Kamareddy in a hotel after posting a selfie video about the torture they faced from a local TRS leader.

In another incident in April, a young BJP activist committed suicide alleging harassment by TRS leader and transport minister Puvvada Ajay Kumar.

In another sensational case in February 2021, a lawyer couple was hacked to death in broad daylight on a busy highway near Peddapalli and family members of the victims alleged that local TRS leaders were behind the murder.

In May 2022, the Petbasheerabad police registered a case against a group of 10 persons including labour minister Ch Malla Reddys relative M. Srinivas Reddy, on charges of trespassing into a land at Gundlapochampally and attacking the guards on the land with sticks over a land dispute.

To douse public anger, the party leadership issued statements suspending such leaders from the party but there are complaints that those leaders continue to remain politically active in their constituencies and continue to hold sway.

A few TRS leaders went to the extent of attacking each other in public over land disputes, in a recent incident in Nizamabad. TRS MLA and TSRTC chairman Bajireddy Govardhan and the husband of TRS Nizamabad municipal corporation mayor Neethu Kiran resorted to attacks

claiming ownership on a land parcel.

In January 2017, the then forest minister Jogu Ramanna's son Jogu Premender was booked in a murder case after the victim's family complained that he ended his life unable to bear the harassment by Premender.

In February 2017, police booked cases against T. Rameshwar Goud, son of the then excise minister T. Padma Rao Goud and others for allegedly assaulting and threatening a local businessman in Secunderabad.

In November 2021, the Saifabad police booked a criminal case against Talasani Saikiran Yadav, son of minister Talasani Srinivas Yadav for causing injuries to a man with his vehicle due to rash driving.
New Delhi: The BJP on Sunday suspended its national spokesperson, Nupur Sharma, and expelled its Delhi media head, Naveen Kumar Jindal, after their alleged derogatory remarks against Prophet Muhammad, as it sought to defuse a raging row over the issue. Amid protests by Muslim groups over the remarks, which have also caused a stir abroad, especially in Arab countries, the BJP issued a statement aimed at assuaging the concerns of minorities and distancing itself from these members, asserting that it respects all religions and strongly denounces insults of any religious personality. However, the BJPs action against Ms Sharma drew sharp criticism on the social media by many BJP supporters, who questioned why the party leadership did not take any action against fundamentalists denigrating Hindu gods and goddesses, especially after the Kashis Gyanvapi case.

Ms Sharma's remarks during a television debate had created controversy. Her remarks reportedly incited violence in Uttar Pradesh's Kanpur and she was provided security after she received death threats for her comments. Mr Jindal views on social media, according to the Delhi BJP unit, are in violation of the party's fundamental beliefs as they vitiate communal harmony.

Ms Sharma's comments, made nearly 10 days back and Mr Jindal's now-deleted tweets, sparked a Twitter trend calling for a boycott of Indian products in some countries in the Gulf region.

In a major embarrassment to India during Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidus ongoing visit to Gulf nation Qatar, both Qatar and Kuwait summoned India's ambassadors and handed over official notes protesting the derogatory comments of two BJP spokespersons.

Handing over an official note, Qatar demanded an apology and condemnation from India. In a statement, the Qatar foreign ministry said that it summoned the Indian ambassador, Deepak Mittal, and handed him an official note on its "total rejection and condemnation of the remarks of an official in the ruling party in India against Prophet Mohammed."

The government, in a swift response, clarified that the controversial views were not those of the Indian government but of "fringe" elements and that "strong action" has already been taken against those who made the comments.

In a major damage-control move, monitored at top levels, India said it accords the highest respect to all religions. New Delhi told Qatar that vested interests were trying to use the offensive comments by inciting people and trying to damage ties between the two nations.

The Indian embassy in Qatars capital Doha stated, "The ambassador had a meeting in the foreign office in which concerns were raised with regard to some offensive tweets by individuals in India denigrating the religious personality. The ambassador conveyed that the tweets do not, in any manner, reflect the views of the Government of India. These are the views of fringe elements. In line with our civilisational heritage and strong cultural traditions of unity in diversity,

Government of India accords the highest respect to all religions. Strong action has already been taken against those who made the derogatory remarks."

A similar response will be extended to Kuwait as well.

Notwithstanding the incident, Mr Naidu met the top leadership of Qatar and was received warmly, an indication that the two nations do not want their close ties to be endangered.

In a late-evening development, Iran became the third country to summon the Indian ambassador and protest against the offensive comments of the now-suspended BJP spokesperson, but was told by New Delhi that the comments are not the views of the Indian government and that the concerned (BJP) party functionaries have been sacked. This comes ahead of the reported forthcoming visit of the Iranian foreign minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, to New Delhi next week.

Meanwhile, back in India, in the statement issued, the BJP claimed that it is "strongly against any ideology which insults or demeans any sect or religion" and that it "does not promote such people or philosophy Indias constitution gives the right to every citizen to practice any religion of his/her choice and to honour and respect every religion."

The letter issued to Ms Sharma regarding her suspension by member - secretary of BJP's central disciplinary committee, Om Pathak read, "You have expressed views contrary to the partys position on various matters, which is in clear violation of Rule 10 (a) of the constitution of the BJP. I have been directed to convey to you that, pending further inquiry, you are suspended from the party and from your responsibilities/assignments, if any, with immediate effect."

The letter expelling Mr Jindal from the BJP was issued by its Delhi unit chief Adesh Gupta.

Later in the day, Ms Sharma issued an apology and tweeted: "I take back my words if they hurt anyone's religious sentiments."

Talking to reporters after being expelled, Mr Jindal said he was "a dedicated worker of the party" and that the partys decision is of the "utmost importance" to him.
A massive fire and a series of subsequent explosions at a private chemical container depot in southeastern Bangladesh killed at least 49 people, including nine firefighters, and injured more than 450 others, officials said on Sunday, as firefighters were still struggling to put out the blaze.

According to doctors, the toll could rise further as many of the injured people were being treated with severe burns. The firefighters backed by army troops were yet to enter deep down the blast site to douse the fire nearly 23 hours after the fire broke out on Saturday.

"The fire was caused by chemicals including hydrogen peroxide, making the situation difficult, fire service chief Brigadier General Mohammad Mainuddin told reporters at the scene where the firefighters were trying to extinguish the blaze amid intermittent explosions since Saturday evening.

The official expected the firefighters to put out the blaze and halt the explosions by tonight.

The disaster prompted authorities to call out army sappers to prevent the spread of chemicals in nearby canals and the coastlines of the Bay of Bengal.

Also Read: Bangladeshi woman swims to India to marry boyfriend; arrested

Fire service officials said nine of their colleagues were killed in explosions as they rushed to the scene immediately after the blaze was reported at the BM Container Depot in Sitakunda at the outskirts of the port city of Chattogram.

This was the first time in known Bangladesh history when so many firefighters were killed in the line of duty in a single such disaster.

"So far 49 bodies arrived at the (Chattogram Medical College Hospital or CMCH) morgue, police sub-inspector at the facility Mohammad Alauddin told reporters.

Doctors at the state-run CMCH, which accommodated most of the wounded people, said the fate of over a dozen of the burn-injured patients was uncertain due to their critical wounds.

Dozens more including firefighters are being treated at the Chattogram Combined Military Hospital (CMH) while Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina ordered military helicopters to bring the critically wounded patients to Dhaka for better treatment.

Chattogram Divisional Commissioner (DC) Ashraf Uddin said that families of the deceased would be given USD 560 (Taka 50,000) by the DC office, and USD 224 (Taka 20,000) would be given to the families of the injured, the Daily Star newspaper reported.

Bangladeshs parliament, which met on its maiden budget session on Sunday, adopted a condolence motion over the tragedy.

Officials and witnesses speculated that the firefighters were initially unaware that the depot stored chemicals to cause blasts while video footage which went viral showed a teenage boy doing Facebook live and moments later virtually vanishing alongside the firemen.

"The deafening explosions turned the sky a blazing orange throughout the night, a resident in the neighbourhood told a TV channel adding that the explosions threw several people metres away from where they were standing.

The residents said the explosions rocked the neighbourhood within a nearly four-kilometre radius around the inland container depot which has been operating since May 2011.

A pungent odour in the air forced rescuers to cover their noses in masks while they also complained of itching eyes apparently due to chemicals.

Officials said the depot -- a site with 21 acres of land -- stored around 4,000 containers, many filled with garments destined for Western retailers.

In a statement, Mujibur Rahman, director of the BM Container Depot, said it was not clear what caused the fire. "But I think the fire started from the container".

"Arrangements are being made to ensure that the injured get the best treatment. We will bear the entire cost of the treatment. Those who were injured in the accident will be given the maximum compensation," Rahman was quoted as saying by The Daily Star.

"In addition, we will take responsibility for all the families of all the victims," he added.

BM Container Depot is set up as an inland container depot which has been operating since May 2011. The private container depot was built on 21 acres of land in the Sitakunda area of Chattagram adjacent to the Bay of Bengal coastlines.

Bangladesh has a history of industrial disasters. Past industrial tragedies have often been attributed to safety lapses.

Last year, a fire engulfed a food and drink factory in Bangladesh, killing at least 52 people.

In February 2019, a blaze ripped through a 400-year-old area cramped with apartments, shops and warehouses in the oldest part of Dhaka and killed at least 67 people.

In 2012, about 117 workers died when they were trapped behind locked exits in a garment factory in Dhaka. The countrys worst industrial disaster occurred the following year, when the Rana Plaza garment factory outside Dhaka collapsed, killing more than 1,100 people.

Another fire in Old Dhaka in a house illegally storing chemicals killed at least 123 people in 2010.
The Pakistan government on Sunday called for two helicopters "urgently" to extinguish forest fire in the Swat region of Kyber Pakhtunkhwa province, a day after four people were killed in the blaze.

Four people of a family lost their lives in the wildfire that erupted in the remote area of Ali Jaan Kapraai of Shangla district on Saturday.

Prime Minister Sharif ordered to provide two helicopters "immediately" for extinguishing fire in Patnai area, following a request by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Dawn newspaper reported.

The request by the district administration and subsidiaries of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa was made in an attempt to prevent the fire from spreading due to a high risk of dry weather and strong winds.

Authorities said fires had broken out in four different places in the mountains of Swat, adding that the incidents were increasing day by day due to the negligence of the departments concerned.

The incidents of forest fire have also increased in the mountains of Swat, Buner, Mingora, Shangla, and Chakesar.

Meanwhile, a raging fire in the Panjar area of Rawalpindi district has spread six to seven kilometres.

Last month, a huge fire destroyed a pine nut forest in Balochistan's Sherani district, leaving three people dead.
In the realisation that the pandemic situation caused people from the LGBTQ community great difficulties in accessing requisite medical services, three NGOs have come together to launch a pan-Indian Covid-19 services locator dedicated to the people from this community.

The said locator, created jointly by Varta Trust in Kolkata, Chennai-based Solidarity and Action Against the HIV Infection in India (SAATHII), and Grindr for Equality from Los Angeles was launched in Kolkata on late Saturday evening.

The locator has features that allow one to search for services by state, city, town, nature of service as well as the different queer community sub-sections served by the service providers.

Pawan Dhall, founding trustee of Varta Trust, Kolkata told IANS that the Covid-19 pandemic has only seemingly ended. "Even if it is dormant at this stage, its devastating socio-economic and health impact on transgender and queer lives is still being felt and will continue to be felt. Such an online help finder was badly needed. What if there's a fourth wave of the pandemic? Queer people need to be smarter next time around and be prepared with information where to access help," Dhall said.

Read | Bengaluru's Pride Month events have something for everyone

In an e-mail communique, Jack Harrison-Quintana, the director of Grindr for Equality, Los Angeles said that his organisation has supported this vital project from the beginning and he is pleased to continue supporting it in the new phase. "This is important for Grindr users and all LGBTIQA+ people in the country," Quintana said.

Queer activist Susanta Pramanik, who worked on the locator with Varta as a researcher, pointed out that the locator presents easily searchable information on queer community groups and NGOs across India that provide a variety of services related to Covid-19.

"These include not just Covid-19 testing and vaccination support, but also access to quarantine centres, dry rations, community kitchens, emergency shelter, legal aid, and even livelihood guidance, STI/HIV treatment and mobile phone recharges. These are the challenges that queer people have faced because of the pandemic and lockdowns, and we wanted to make sure our research tools captured information on as many of them as possible," he added.

Calcutta High Court's senior criminal lawyer and also a reported queer-rights activist, Kaushik Gupta, that even after the Supreme Court of India turned down Section 377, that earlier criminalised same-sex relationship as a punishable offense under law, lack of awareness among a large section of the queer community still prevails where many are unaware of their rights to access medical facilities.

"So, in my opinion, this pan-Indian Covid-19 services locator will be of great help to the people of the community where they will know exactly whom to approach in times of crisis or emergency,' Gupta said.
As migrant Kashmiri Pandit and Dogra employees have been demanding the government to shift them out of the Valley in the wake of targeted killings, the BJP on Sunday appealed to them to stay back and said the government is determined to defeat the "Pakistani conspiracy".

Calling Jammu and Kashmir the country's crown, the BJP's chief for the union territory Ravinder Raina said, "We have to stand together to scuttle the nefarious designs of Pakistan, which has chalked out the conspiracy of targeted killings through its sponsored terrorists to force out minorities and nationalist Muslims from the Valley."

Also Read | Authorities stop fleeing Kashmiri Pandits along Srinagar-Jammu highway

"We are fighting a Pakistan-sponsored proxy war for the last 32 years and our army, police and paramilitary forces have given a befitting reply by eliminating thousands of terrorists over the years to frustrate the evil designs of the neighbouring country," Raina said, addressing a gathering of Kashmiri Pandits at the party headquarters here.

He said when terrorism started in the Valley in the early 1990s, Pakistan's plan was to drive out the "nationalist forces", and hence it targeted Kashmiri Pandits and nationalist Muslims in the BJP.

Also Read | Bank manager killed in Kashmir cremated in Raj village

"Our people fought back bravely... Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government has given a free hand to the army, police and paramilitary forces, and the security situation in the Valley has improved satisfactorily, which is evident from the fact that there is no Hurriyat Conference-sponsored strikes and stone pelting during anti-terrorism operations," he said.

As Pakistan saw the restoration of peace in the Valley, it conspired with the terror groups to bleed Kashmir again and chalked out the strategy of targeted killings to create fear and force fresh migration, he alleged.

"We appeal to all nationalists, including Pandits, Dogras and those who have come from different parts of the country to stay back as we have to join hands to defeat the conspiracies of the enemies," he said, adding the government has already announced their relocation to safer paces and provided them adequate security.
MNS President Raj Thackeray may have postponed his visit to Ayodhya because of protests and health issues, a senior MNS leader Avinash Jadhav sprang a surprise by visiting the temple town and taking darshan of Lord Ram on Sunday.

After visiting Ayodhya, Jadhav, the partys head in Thane and Palghar districts, posted about the visit on Facebook.

Now I am in Ayodhya.we are in Ram Janmabhoomievery Hindu, every Indian must visit here, he said.

Yes, today is June 5and a Marathi manoos had visited Ayodhya, he said.

During April-May, Thackeray had built enthusiasm among his party workers with two announcements - that he would visit Ayodhya on June 5 and gave a deadline of May 3 to the government to bring down loudspeakers from mosques or they would play Hanuman Chalisa at twice the volume.

However, his plans of the Ayodhya visit were met with protests from BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh who said that the MNS chief would not be allowed to visit Ayodhya till he apologies for his anti-North Indian stand. Raj said that it appeared to be a trap.

The day I stood on loudspeakers in mosques, I had announced that I would be visiting Ayodhya. After that, a lot happenedthat I would not be allowed to enter Ayodhya. I was watching all this I was getting information from Mumbai, Delhi and even from Uttar Pradesh People were telling me what exactly is happening. Then I realised this was a trap I should not get trapped It all started from Maharashtra, he said, however, did not name anyone.
India needs a National Council on Climate Change which could be chaired by the Prime Minister and the elected representatives from the states as its members, Maharashtra Environment Minister Aaditya Thackeray said as one of the steps to tackle climate change.

Given the severity of our situation, my message to all fellow environment ministers across India is that we need to band together and undertake collective climate action. Collaboration across the board to build climate resilience is the need of the hour, Thackeray told DH in an interview coinciding with the World Environment Day.

Thackeray, the son of Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, is steering one of Indias biggest climate action plans in Maharashtra, said: As Environment Ministers, but more importantly, as elected representatives, we have to act decisively on climate change. The loss and damage due to climate change-related disasters are taking a toll on our environment, economy and society.

Thackeray, who also holds the Tourism and Protocol portfolios, pointed out that the Maharashtra government has paid over Rs 14,000 crores as compensation for extreme weather events in just the last two years.

Read | Central Indian landscape witnessing climate change

This gives an idea of the scale of loss of life and livelihood that we are facing today due to climate change and its impacts. We are already witnessing a rise in the frequency of floods and cyclones. Just a few weeks ago, the entire Indian subcontinent was sweating under a scorching heatwave, he said.

According to him, subnational action is the way forward. Moreover, regional governments need to join hands with non-state actors like businesses, investors and civil society in combating climate change. India emphasised the Panchamrit vision at COP26 to meet its climate goals. Now it is up to the state governments to take leadership. States can devise localised solutions to their climate woes.

Elaborating further, he said: "As per the climate issues that they specifically face, our states should meaningfully engage with the aforementioned stakeholders to step up Indias climate ambitions and agenda. As a matter of fact, the Maharashtra government is working with organizations such as the Climate Groups Under2 Coalition and C40 Cities, through which we are collaborating and working with subnational governments in India and abroad.

On being asked about the Mumbai Climate Action Plan has set some ambitious targets already while 43 cities have signed up for Race to Zero in the state, he said: At COP26, India set forth an ambitious 2070 net-zero goal. As a subnational government, Maharashtra will lead from the front and accelerate the achievement of our national goal at the earliest. Maharashtra is already a partner in the UN Race to Resilience. Given that our state contributes the highest percentage to Indias GDP, the state has the resources to become NetZero as early as 2050.

With this view, the government conceptualised the Majhi Vasundhara Abhiyan as a state-wide program to build grassroots level climate resilience. If Maharashtra achieves its Net Zero target at such an early date by adopting a sustainable development trajectory, then it creates a competitive atmosphere for other states to achieve their Net Zero goals. This will only speed up the attainment of Indias Net Zero goals. Only by working together, can we ensure that India sets a precedent internationally by achieving its Net Zero goals earlier than 2070.

According to him, the Maharashtra government has set up the Maharashtra Council on Climate Change which would be chaired by the Chief Minister and co-chaired by the Deputy Chief Minister and the Revenue Minister.


Railway builders urged to show Chinese quality

Source : China Daily Date :

2022-06-05 19:36:03

Railway builders urged to show Chinese quality

Lu Kang (third left), China's ambassador to Indonesia, visits a worksite for the Jakarta-Bandung High-speed Railway project in March. [Photo by Zhao Yuemei/for China Daily]



Lu Kang, China's ambassador to Indonesia, visited Chinese builders constructing the Jakarta-Bandung High-speed Railway (HSR) on March 30 and urged them to demonstrate the charm of Chinese quality in economies participating in the Belt and Road Initiative.

While touring Tegal Luar station and the worksite of a locomotive station being built by State-owned China Railway No 4 Engineering Group Co Ltd (CREC-4), Lu called on the builders to do their utmost to ensure a high-quality project.

As the first high-speed railway in Indonesia as well as in Southeast Asia, the $8-billion Jakarta-Bandung HSR is China's first systemic HSR footprint overseas, incorporating whole supply chains.

As a signature link in the BRI, the Jakarta-Bandung HSR project, with a maximum designed train speed of 350 kilometers per hour, is being jointly built by China and Indonesia, with construction managed by PT Kereta Cepat Indonesia-China, a consortium involving Indonesian state-owned companies and Chinese central State-owned enterprises.

A day after Lu's visit, China Railway No 4 Engineering builders successfully erected a continuous cross-highway box girder with the largest span on the Jakarta-Bandung HSRthe final high-risk and most-difficult key node on the 142.3-km line, said Zhang Qing, safety superintendent of the company's Jakarta-Bandung HSR project.

With it, the builders can now begin to lay track, starting from the national capital of Jakarta and extending to Bandung, the nation's fourth largest city.

The HSR will have four stations: Halifax Station is in Jakarta Urban Area, while Karawang, Walini and Tegal Luar stations are located in West Java. A world-famous harbor, Jakarta is the largest city in Southeast Asia.

The box girder, flying over the widely traversed Jakarta-Bandung Expressway, now stands on the P136-to-P146 piers of the No 46 Super Bridge along the high-speed rail network.

Adhering to strict safety requirements with high construction risks, erecting the box girder involves multiple local government departments and has drawn intense public attention.

In a bid to ensure a safe and smooth construction process, the No 4 beam fabrication yard of China Railway No 4 Engineering, the project's contractor, devised thorough work plans on cross-expressway girder construction, ground traffic management and safety precaution measures, said Zeng Weixian, chief of the yard.

The Chinese builders carried out sufficient communication with the Indonesian ministry of public works and the Jakarta-Bandung HSR special working group, as well as the police and traffic departments of West Java and Bandung, obtaining a green light for the erection.

By Wednesday, staff members from the CREC4 No 4 beam fabrication yard had finished erecting all 343 box girders on the line from Jakarta to Bandungone week ahead of schedule and marking a new milestone.

The yard is in charge of precasting and erecting 1,007 box girders in the section between DK85+043 and DK139+726 on the line, said Li Jinpeng of the CREC4 First Engineering Co Ltd.

In order to safeguard the steady and smooth progress of the track-laying in the direction from Bandung to Jakarta on the Jakarta-Bandung HSR, the yard well handled the anti-COVID work and the engineering construction.

Upon completion, the journey from Jakarta to Bandung will be cut from the current three hours to 40 minutes, greatly facilitating traveling of local residents and boosting economic development.

Due to issues concerning land acquisition, relocation of high-voltage lines, continued impact of COVID-19 and funding, full operation of the Jakarta-Bandung HSR is now expected to begin in June 2023, according to an official local participating party in the project.

The HSR, which began construction in June 2018, was previously scheduled to begin regular service by the end of 2022.

Indonesia, which holds the rotating Group of 20(G20) presidency in 2022, plans to launch a trial operation of a section of the line involving Tegal Luar station in the near future.

At present, the Chinese contractors are working hard to safeguard regular construction and ensure the trial's success and the future full operations.

The project department of China Railway No 4 Engineering will efficiently handle the dual tasks of safe and normal construction, and anti-COVID preventive work, to ensure the successful building of the HSR, Zeng said.

According to Chinese Customs figures, the Chinese-Indonesian trade reached $124.34 billion in 2021, a rise of 58.43 percent year-on-year.
This week the world is observing thirty years of the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development  popularly known as the Earth Summit  held in Rio de Janeiro and also fifty years of the first Human Environment Conference held in Stockholm. The two landmark meetings brought into focus the interdependence of social, environmental and economic factors and catalysed environmental policies and actions globally. The Earth Summit presented a broad agenda and a blueprint for international action on the environment. This process, over the years, manifested in various treaties and mechanisms, like the Kyoto Protocol, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and carbon trading. The periodically released scientific reports of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) have served as guidance to policymakers and negotiators. While all this happened, the impacts of climate change have become more apparent in the form of extreme weather events, drastic changes in weather patterns and impacts on livelihoods.

At the national level, several policy changes and programmes were initiated to fulfil Indias international obligations. In 2008, the UPA government came up with the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) consisting of missions on solar energy, energy efficiency, water, agriculture, Himalayan ecosystem, sustainable habitat, green India, and strategic knowledge on climate change. The activities in missions for solar energy, energy efficiency and the forestry sector are supposed to contribute directly to the reduction in carbon emissions, while other missions are to support carbon emissions reduction as a co-benefit. As a follow-up, the states were told to formulate their respective action plans outlining sector-specific and cross-sectoral actions.

Also Read | International Solar Alliance: Making solar power a political priority for nations

By the time the NDA came to power in 2014, all major states had prepared state action plans. However, many state plans got outdated by the time they were formulated and no major action has been initiated barring a few adaptation projects. The state science and technology councils, which are supposed to be nodal agencies for climate action, are not adequately prepared to handle the task. Given that climate action, by its very nature, is inter-sectoral, the state councils often do not get the necessary cooperation from other departments.

To support adaptation programmes in states under the National Adaptation Fund for Climate Change, funds are released for specific projects through the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD). This quantum has come down from Rs 118 crore in 2015-16 to Rs 42 crore in 2020-21, according to information provided by the government in the last parliament session. The funds released for 2021-22 (till the last week of March 2022) were only Rs 27 crore. In addition to supporting states in adaptation projects, the central government funds some activities on its own. The money spent by the central government on the climate change action programme has come down from Rs 26 crore in 2017-18 to Rs 20 crore in 2020-21. Both the funds released to the states for climate-specific projects and funds spent by the central government for climate change related activities have shown a downward trend in the last seven years.

One of the five commitments Prime Minister Narendra Modi made at the Glasgow meeting of UNFCCC in November 2021 was that India would install 500 GW of non-fossil energy capacity by 2030. Solar energy was one of the eight missions announced in 2008 and the progress being made under this mission in recent years has been rapid, but it appears to be a case of shifting goalposts. In July 2018, the government informed parliament that it had set a target of installing 100 GW of solar capacity by 2022 in the country. Overall, the target for renewable energy capacity was 175 GW 2022  100 GW from solar, 60 GW from wind, 10 GW from bio-power and 5 GW from small hydro-power. In November 2021, the government claimed that the target had been met with installed renewable energy capacity at 150 GW (48.55 GW solar, 40 GW wind, 4.83 GW small hydro, 10.62 GW bio-power, 46.51 GW large hydro). There is a huge gap of 25 GW in installed renewable capacity and over 50 GW gap in solar capacity  between the projection made in 2018 and the reality in 2022. The solar capacity also includes grid-connected rooftop solar panels set up by people on their own. The states were told in 2014 to make the installation of rooftop solar panels mandatory in building bye-laws.

The other commitments the prime minister made in Glasgow included a reduction in the emissions intensity of GDP by 45% over 2005 levels, achieving the target of installing capacity for generating 50% of electricity from non-fossil sources by 2030 (which is related to 500 GW capacity of renewables), reduction in carbon emissions by one billion tonnes till 2030 and becoming net-zero by 2070. All these promises are linked to each other and need cohesive action and plans to translate intent into action. If the promise of 500 GW made by India to the world community is to be met, the country will have to add 350 GW of renewable energy capacity in the next eight years. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has not yet come up with a blueprint to achieve this target although the announcement was made in November 2021. Similarly, some initiatives, like National Hydrogen Mission and National Electric Mobility Mission Plan, have been initiated, but it is not clear how much they will contribute to emission reduction. The government also needs to work with all stakeholders including civil society and states. More concrete steps are needed to bridge the gap between intent and action.

(Dinesh C Sharma is a journalist and author based in New Delhi. His latest book is Indian Innovation: 100 ideas that transformed India)
The mild aroma of printing-ink from freshly printed textbooks is evocative and a memorable part of ones journey through school. However, even before the books are distributed and opened, a serious controversy has erupted. This controversy cannot be brushed aside as mere political rhetoric. The arguments that have surfaced call for every citizens attention. Perhaps, the most important line of debate is related to the making of modern Karnataka.

Schools in Karnataka resumed their routine work after severe disruptions due to the Covid pandemic. With all pending examinations done and results out, as the new academic year begins, over one crore children and teenagers have returned to 77,000 schools.

The name Erloo bin Narayan may not ring any bells for the government, but it should. Erloo was a boy from Dharwad district who belonged to the Mahar community (now classified as SC). He was denied school admission in 1856 and managed to have a complaint sent to Governor Mountstuart Elphinstone in Bombay.

Also Read: Report on Karnataka textbook revision doubtful on June 2

After three years of correspondence between the Governors office and the Education secretary of London, admission was granted. By then Erloo had disappeared. Seven decades later, Dr B R Ambedkar found his letter in the Bombay government files. His travel to Dharwad in search of Erloos family did not yield results, but the boys quest for inclusion in education found a permanent place in Dr Ambedkars mind.

The placement of education as a subject in the concurrent list, with school education predominantly with the state and higher education mainly with the Union Government, is to ensure that there is no denial of access to education. Karnataka has come a long way since the days of Erloo.

Regressive journey

However, the controversy surrounding textbook revision is an indication that the state has started on a regressive journey.

In order to grasp why the journey is in the reverse direction, it is necessary to see the evolution of the idea of textbooks. Text, a term drawn upon the Latin textile and texture, was used to indicate the state of being woven together.

Texts, be it the sutra-path of Panini or the ancient Roman textum or the early American text The New England Primer or the colonial textbooks discussed by Dharampal in his work on pre-colonial education, all had a common purpose. It was to weave the minds of children together into a dominant national or cultural narrative.

All textbooks are based on this principle, in both good and bad times. Mahatma Gandhi had, therefore, written in 1937 that if textbooks alone are to be used as vehicle of knowledge, the living presence of a teachers mind will have no space in education.

Also Read: Teach truth in textbooks, not ideologies, says Bhyrappa

The cultural context of the text

For almost a thousand years since Basavanna, Karnataka formed its identity through a lively dialectic between the living presence of a teachers mind and the dominant national narrative. What defines Karnataka is the rich history of the tension between the two.

The best of Karnatakas medieval scholarship was devoted to subversive and creative re-interpretations of older texts, not a mechanical adoption and extension. The Rohit Chakrathirtha Committee appears to have set aside the historical reality of the very spirit of learning in Karnataka as well as the principle of inclusion that Dr Ambedkar embedded in the Constitution.

In 2017, a somewhat similar textbook controversy erupted in Europe. In the wake of Brexit, the British textbooks moved over to a more critical discussion of a unified Europe than German textbooks which still promoted Martin Schulzs expansionist idea of a United States of Europe by 2025. The intention of educators in both countries was to socialise young learners into their respective national ideologies.

Raising questions

The protests against the revisions in textbooks are not futile. The Kannada writers objecting to the new texts on the block are raising pertinent questions: What, after all, is the narrative of Karnataka? What should textbooks be composed of to weave the spirit and being of Karnataka into the minds of young learners? What kind of texts will socialise them as citizens of the world who live in India, who belong to the state of Karnataka a country that the Constitution defines as a Union of States?

Also Read | Govt to revise Basavanna content, probe 'distorted' state anthem

If K V Puttappa gets truncated in a text, will the mind of readers have a place for vishwamanavata or universal humanism and develop a sacred affinity with their native Kannada Nadu? That love for Karnataka cannot come by merely using bombastic Sanskritised words or absurd English abbreviations  a tendency rife in the present regime.

If Devanur Mahadeva, a champion of freedom of expression and an outstanding writer, withdrew permission to use his Edege Bidda Akshara in textbooks, this should serve as enough of a reason for the government to halt its ideological cleansing and revisionist programme.

In the heat of controversies, tempers rise and wise counsel takes a back seat. Hence, the withdrawal of permissions by various writers are narrowed to questions of caste and party politics by trolls.

A teachers dilemma

Classroom transactions and the development of cognitive abilities are entirely overlooked. Think, for instance, of the inclusion of Nijavada aadarsha purusha yaaraagabeku? a Kannada rendering of K B Hedgewars lecture. The chapter is supposed to bring up the nature of ideals. The essence of the lecture is that the principle matters, not the person. Since the lesson is meant for Class 10, the teacher would be required to do background research before introducing the lesson on why and when the author said this.

A conscientious teacher will find out that Hedgewar was under pressure from his svayamsevaks to join the Dandi march by Mahatma Gandhi, an event that he had refused to join. He was more concerned with the growth of the RSS and worried about the growing aura of the Mahatma. Later, his dislike for Gandhiji increased and persons nurtured in the RSS ecology conspired to eliminate him. Will the conscientious teacher enjoy teaching the text?

Also read | Congress wont allow saffronised textbooks, says Rahul Gandhi

And an inquisitive student is likely to ask, Not a person but a principle? Which principle does the author imply? Is the teacher supposed to say, truthfully, the principle of militant Hindutva?

If, indeed, a teacher believes that that is the right way forward for India, will she not be contributing to the rise in the number of non-state actors, ready for violent out-of-law activities?

These are serious pedagogic issues. The Karnataka government must decide what its understanding of the Karnataka cultural identity is. It should decide if it wants to negate the social, philosophical and cultural struggles that Karnataka took up during the last millennium to make it a modern, humane and inclusive state.

(G N Devy is a writer, thinker & academic)
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About Indian Police Force Indian Police Force was released on Jun 06, 2022 and was directed by Rohit Shetty .This show is available in Hindi language. Sidharth Malhotra are playing as the star cast in this show. You can watch the show online on Prime Video, as long as you are a subscriber to the video streaming OTT platform. Indian Police Force is available in Action and Drama genres.

Indian Police Force Storyline Indian Police Force is a web series which shines a spotlight on the workings of the Delhi Police. The cop drama has eight episodes with the protagonist solving new crimes in every episode. The action-packed series is full of interesting action sequences. The high-octane action blockbuster fiction series gives an ode to the selfless service, unconditional commitment and fierce patriotism of Indian police officers across the country who put everything in their call of duty to keep civilians safe. The series Indian Police Force hopes to set a new bar for action content which will appeal to audiences globally. Viewers will experience an immersive cop universe story in the series which salutes the selfless service and unwavering commitment of our Indian police forces. The action-packed cop-drama will keep audiences hooked. Watch Indian Police Force series now.

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The body which regulates nursing and midwifery will visit Donegal next week to discuss the future of the professions after the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI) will host a discussion event in Letterkenny.

The Donegal event, which will be held in ATU Letterkenny, will focus on mental health nursing.

NMBIs President and CEO and senior directors will be in attendance at the event.

President of NMBI, Essene Cassidy, said: This Summer Series has been designed to facilitate open conversations about the practice of nurses and midwives and the innovations taking place in our professions right now.

NMBI CEO Sheila McClelland said: Senior NMBI staff members will be in attendance listening to our professionals about how they work now in 2022 and how they hope to work into the future.

We will also be sharing insights and data from our Register of Nurses and Midwives following the digitisation of the registration process.

There are around 80,000 registered nurses and midwives in Ireland.

Director of Education, Policy and Standards at NMBI, Carolyn Donohoe, said: The Summer Series is a wonderful opportunity to take NMBI outside Dublin to different college campuses; to listen and to discuss new innovations in nursing and midwifery and to examine how our professions can adapt and change in the years ahead to lead on improvements for our health service users.

All of the Summer Series events are free. Tickets are available on EventBrite.
Pulling together, moving forward

Source : China Daily Global Date :

2022-06-05 19:36:03

Pulling together, moving forward

SHI YU/CHINA DAILY



Political mutual trust will help lift China-Barbados ties to a higher level

The People's Republic of China established diplomatic relations with Barbados on May 30, 1977. As a Chinese saying goes: "A bosom friend afar brings a distant land near."



Despite the geographic distance between the two countries, China and Barbados share a long history of friendship and are like-minded true friends, good partners and brothers.

Since the two countries established diplomatic relations 45 years ago, the bilateral ties have kept developing and the cooperation has borne fruit in various fields, setting an example of mutual respect, equality, mutual benefit and common development for the relations among big and small nations.

President Xi Jinping and Barbados Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley had a phone conversation in July 2021, in which they reached a series of important consensuses, charting the direction for the development of China-Barbados ties.

The two countries have developed solid political mutual trust. China and Barbados respect each other's national independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and understand and support each other on issues related to each other's core interests and major concerns. Barbados has always adhered to the one-China principle and the Chinese side firmly supports Barbados in independently choosing a national system and development path suited to its national conditions and history, and safeguarding the country's legitimate rights and interests.

Bilateral cooperation has been deepening. China is the fourth-largest source of imports for Barbados. In 2019, the two countries signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative. The Garfield Sobers Gymnasium, Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Center and Cheapside Public Market built with China's assistance are playing important roles in local economic and social life. Other China-aided projects, the Center for Food Security and Entrepreneurship and the Hope Agriculture Training Institute, are set to start construction. Harrison's Cave built by Chinese companies has become a famous tourist attraction of Barbados.

The Sam Lord's Castle Hotel and Scotland District Road Rehabilitation Project, with preferential loan from China, have made steady progress. "Made-in-China "electric buses have helped Barbados become the country with the largest electric bus fleet in the Caribbean, contributing to local carbon emissions reduction and sustainable economic and social development. At the same time, Barbados rum has gradually become popular among Chinese customers, and more Chinese people visit picturesque Barbados.

After the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, President Xi and Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley exchanged letters to express support to each other. China and Barbados have joined hands to go through the hard times. China has provided 30,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccines and 14 batches of urgently needed anti-pandemic materials to Barbados. The Chinese side announced it will donate anti-pandemic and medical supplies to Barbados and other Caribbean countries having diplomatic relations with China at the Foreign Ministers' Meeting among China and the Caribbean Countries Having Diplomatic Relations with China, which was held online not long ago. China has sent medical teams to Barbados since 2016, and about one in every 10 Barbadian people have received medical services from the Chinese medics.

People-to-people connectivities and cultural exchanges have never come to a halt. China has sent Chinese language teachers to Barbados since 2011 and Chinese has been taught as a foreign language by the Cave Hill Campus of West Indies University. About 100 Barbadian students have furthered their studies in China with the scholarship of the Chinese government in recent years, becoming messengers of friendship and exchange between the two countries.

A Confucius Institute was officially inaugurated at the Cave Hill Campus of West Indies University in 2015. A growing number of Barbadian people study the Chinese language and culture there. Lushan Primary School in China's Hunan province and Charles F Broome Primary School in Barbados have established sister school relations.

The Fish and Dragon Festival launched by the Chinese Embassy in Barbados and the Central Bank of Barbados, as well as cultural activities to celebrate the Chinese Spring Festival have been held for eight years in a row. They have also become brand events in Barbados and even the Caribbean region and are well received by local people.

As the world is facing with the complex situation in which major global changes unseen in a century are being compounded by a once-in-a-century pandemic, the global economic and social development and security situation are undergoing complex and severe challenges. Under the guidance of the spirit of the phone conversation between President Xi and Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley, China and Barbados will firmly stick to the right direction of bilateral relations, maintain the momentum of high-level exchanges, continuously enhance political mutual trust, promote the joint construction of the Belt and Road Initiative, jointly implement the Global Development Initiative and the Global Security Initiative, and lift China-Barbados ties to a higher level so as to enable their cooperation to benefit the two peoples and jointly build a China-Barbados community with a shared future.

The author is the Chinese ambassador to Barbados. The author contributed this article to China Watch, a think tank powered by China Daily. The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.
With all the talk since the beginning of the Ukraine War of Ireland being asked about the possibility of joining N.A.T.O., I was not surprised to be asked by a friend of mine recently --- 'Whatever happened to the F.C.A.'?

This person reminded me that they used to parade around the Town on public holidays but have not been seen for a long time!

All I could tell him was that I understood a few of the members who had been seconded into the regular Defence Forces.

When I looked it up, however, I was surprised to read that the Volunteer Force known as an Forsa Cosanta Aitiual had stood as long ago as 2005 and had been reformed as a much smaller unit known as the R.D.F (Reserve Defence Force) attached to the Regular Army.

The F.C.A. had been established in February 1946 to replace the Local Defence Force formed in 1941 as a second-line Reserve Force to the Regular Army and was disbanded in October 1945.

The initial target for this Reserve Force was 60,000 but, although there was a lot of enthusiasm to join at the start, it never got higher than just over 37,000 and dwindled over 50 years to the 1990s, when it was around 8,000.

The decline in numbers continued and the aim for enrolment in the R.D.A. was set at just 6,000 but has only reached about 2,000 to date.

Unlike the U.K. Home Guard, who were nicknamed 'Dad's Army', the F.C.A. recruits were mostly not out of their teens and were dubbed the 'Free Clothing Association' because it was said that those young men 'joined for the boots'.

They got nothing much more than their uniforms and what was described as a 'paid annual holiday' when those from this area were transported to the Gormanston Camp in Meath for annual training.

There might have been some truth in the story about the value of the boots as I can testify from my own experiences as a member of the later formed Civil Defence.

I recall that the best thing I got out of that experience was a fine pair of black leather boots which lasted me for years tramping all over the Cooley and Mourne Mountains without ever wearing out the sole leather!

The truth of the matter relating to the young men who joined the F.C.A., in the 40s and 50s, was that many of my friends who did join, did so for the excitement.

A good thing that came out of one local unit was that it bonded together the boys who attended the two rival local secondary schools of the C.B.S. and St. Mary's because there was never enough for either school to form a separate unit.

I do not know if any De la Salle Secondary School boys were in the same unit? There may have been a few but there were certainly no girls, which was a great disappointment to some of the boys of my time!

Whit Sunday

Next Sunday is Whit Sunday, which used to be a date of great significance in these parts but is now almost forgotten, other than that there is still a Bank Holiday on the following day.

It used to be the day when young people in these parts would bathe in the open sea for the first time but nobody seems to do much of that any more!
Note: Since this column was written the artwork on the mentioned WWI monument has been removed and the official unveiling postponed.

The details of his life story sound like something straight out of one of those old-fashioned Hollywood biopics that used to be all the rage years ago.

Yet its likely youve never heard of him, even though he spent many years living and visiting with his family in Blackrock in the late 19th and early 20th century.

The past few weeks and months has brought up plenty of debate and talk about the World War One memorial just unveiled at the Crescent beside the Garda Barracks in Dundalk. It commemorates all the local men who fought and died during the Great War.

On one hand it is surprising that Dundalk was the last major town in the country, not to have such a memorial in place before now.

Hundreds of men from around Louth enlisted to fight on the side of the allies in that conflict and many never returned home.

Dundalks, at times strained, more recent history has undoubtedly contributed to the lack of a memorial to the local Great War dead up until now.

The towns proximity geographically, culturally and socially to the border has had an impact on being able to revisit and reappraise the very idea of men from Dundalk fighting on behalf of the British Army in that conflict.

But so many did, and a good portion of those would have also strongly believed in a free Ireland then too.

A quick search through the Irish Great War Dead Archive online brings up 480 entries of deceased men who had a relationship with Dundalk back then.

Some died of dysentery or other medical, non-combat ailments, but there are rows and rows of men with Killed in Action beside their entry.

Theres such poignancy and typically understated heartache in some of the recorded comments.

Rifleman Barney Carolan was 37 when he died in action in France in October, 1917.

He had served for 23 years as a postman in Dundalk. He was described as a most efficient and obliging public servant, and very popular with all who knew him.

There's Major William Barker, who died of wounds received at the Dardanelles in Turkey, eventually dying at sea, presumably on a hospital ship off the coast. He was from Falcon House in Carlingford originally.

All deaths in war are tragic, its just that some seem to be coloured with added sorrow and heartbreak.

Gunner Albert Edward Bromley, who is buried in Dowdallshill, made it home alive from the trenches, but died at his home in

Casey's Place, Dundalk, from what is described as Heart Disease dropsy in the archive.

The record adds that his sister-in-law Alice Coleman was present at his passing. Before PTSD syndrome had a name and was dismissively labeled shellshock,

Albert Edward Bromley is reported as having a disability caused by strain and exposure and hardship of 22 months continual service with the B.E.F. (British Expeditionary Force).

Then theres Captain Edward Gerald James Moyna - the man briefly introduced at the outset of this piece.

He was described as a leader writer with the London Morning Post - a powerful position at the time, granting him a pulpit from which to influence the great and good of London life and by direction, even the British Empire.

His life reads like a classic Boys Own adventure, but he would have spent many of the happiest days of his life in Blackrock, where his mother lived at Sandymount.

He was born in Chile in South America around 1880, just as a bloody revolution in that country was kicking off.

His family were of Irish and Scottish extraction and it was reported that he came under fire as a boy as that fierce internal conflict escalated.

After the family departed Chile he went on to school in Oxford where, among other achievements, he was a champion featherweight boxer for the university and a first class shot and motorist.

With his schooling complete, he hit the high seas and among other derring do adventures, he shot big game in Africa and ended up shipwrecked in the Pacific.

It was while in China though that his passion for journalism seemed to be fired-up when a number of his articles from the Orient were published to acclaim back in England.

This ultimately helped him towards the job as leader writer with the London Morning Post.

He eventually settled down, married and had three kids; preparing to drift off into middle age with regular trips back to Blackrock to see his mother on the cards, it would appear.

When back in Blackrock, Edward Gerald James Moyna was a favourite with the locals too. He was extremely popular, especially with the hardy and industrious fishing folk of the village, according to one report.

But with the coming of war in 1914, Moyna, by now in his mid-30s, was among the first to volunteer to join the army as a lowly private. However, due to an ailment of the throat he was refused on medical grounds.

Undeterred, Moyna pressed ahead and his merits as a soldier led to repeated offers of a commission, which his natural modesty at first prompted him to refuse; but he eventually accepted a commission in that famous regiment the Royal Scots Fusiliers, as the best means of getting to the front.

On the morning of 25th September 2015, Captain Moyna was badly wounded by shrapnel as he led his men in an attack at the Battle of Loos.

While such injuries would usually mean a trip to hospital, if not a return home, Captain Moyna was bandaged up and returned to the front line to lead his men once again.

He fought on all that afternoon and into the night, but died on Hill 70 from a gunshot to the head in the early hours of the 26th September.

Described as most unselfish; all his thoughts were for others, Captain Moyna left behind his grieving widow and children.

It is clear from reports and writings that he was beloved by many, with the grief at his passing felt by his friends and colleagues, who are proud to remember that they had the privilege of being his friends.

These brief snippets of individuals with strong Dundalk connections who died in the 1914-1918 war serve to highlight the vast scope of local social history that we should never forget, nor the local families that sacrificed so much and ultimately lived on with such sorrow and loss for the rest of their days.

The new memorial at the Crescent can go some way towards securing this important local legacy.
Independent Louth Councillor, Paddy Mc Quillan, is to call on Louth County Council to work with all Drug Service Providers in the north east to explore the possibility of setting up a residential detox centre for the area.

In a statement to the Dundalk Democrat, Cllr McQuillan said that, I first proposed this back in 2012 but I was informed by the HSE at the time that there was not a need for one in our area as the existing centres around the country were more than able to cope with the demand.

I think that it is fair to say that given the amount of people availing of the service of The Red Door, over 200 weekly presentations, there is a need for this service in the area. In the first six months of this year, The Red Door has referred over thirty individuals to residential detox centres around the country from this Drogheda service alone.

As it stands, there are no residential detox centres in the north east that service users of The Red Door can access. The waiting list for places can often take up to six months. Cllr McQuillan explains that people in recovery lucky enough to receive a placement must accept the offer they get which often means they must go to counties Down, Kildare, Wicklow, Offlay, Limerick or Dublin. This can be a burden on families wishing to visit loved ones.

Cllr Mc Quillan, who is part of the Louth Drug & Alcohol Forum, feels that there is a need for such a service in the area. I will be bringing this to the next meeting of the Louth Drug & Alcohol Forum, he states. We are well through the looking glass when it comes to our drug problem in Drogheda and the north east of the country more generally. We can no longer bury our heads in the sand and pretend it doesnt exist. There is a definite need for such a service and I would like to see the conversation start to explore possible ways we can make this happen.

Action 3.6 of the Geiran Implementation plan states, Agencies working in the substance use field in Drogheda should look at practical ways of interagency cooperation, including the identification and implementation of appropriate gateways to treatment and progression routes for service users. It is a recommendation in the Geiran Report and I believe we should explore all avenues to make it a reality for people suffering from addiction in Drogheda and the north east of the country more widely, the Drogheda Urban councillor added.
Omniplex Cinema review the latest new releases to watch in cinemas this week.

Jurassic World Dominion (12a Cert) - click link to see trailer

Starring: Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas Howard, Laura Dern & Sam Neill

Director: Colin Trevorrow

Genre: Action Adventure

Release Date: Fri 10 June

This summer, experience the epic conclusion to the Jurassic era as two generations unite for the first time. Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard are joined by Oscar-winner Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum & Sam Neill in Jurassic World Dominion, a bold, timely and breath-taking new adventure that spans the globe. From Jurassic World architect and director Colin Trevorrow, Dominion takes place four years after Isla Nublar has been destroyed. Dinosaurs now live and hunt alongside humans all over the world. This fragile balance will reshape the future and determine, once and for all, whether human beings are to remain the apex predators on a planet they now share with history's most fearsome creatures.

Jurassic World Dominion (12a Cert) Trailer:

Jurassic World Trivia:

Jurassic World: Dominion will be released on June 10, 2022, just one day before the date when Jurassic Park (1993) was released on June 11, 1993. And just two days before the date when Jurassic World (2015) was released on June 12, 2015.

Colin Trevorrow has revealed that this film is going to have the more animatronics than its predecessors.

As he put it: "We've actually gone more practical with every Jurassic movie we've made since the first one, and we've made more animatronics in this one than we have in the previous two."

Sam Neil has often said he thought Dr. Grant would have long since retired by now, but maybe the threat of dinosaurs back on American soil would force him to reconsider that option.

Howard stated that she wanted the film to "blow your mind in terms of being like, 'Whoa, this is where this technology can go. This is what the world could really turn into if this technology fell into the wrong hands.' So basically, seeing a world with dinosaurs everywhere."

The New York Times has reported that the production crew had spent approximately $9 million putting safeguards in place. That money went toward renting out an entire hotel for the cast and crew to quarantine in for the duration of the shoot. They also established 150 hand sanitizing stations around the set and ordered roughly 18,000 COVID tests.

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Feature: Chinese company brings "new hope" to Egypt's animal farming

Source : Xinhua Date :

2022-06-05 18:25:42

Feature: Chinese company brings "new hope" to Egypt's animal farming

Employees work at a chicken feed repository of New Hope Egypt Co., Ltd. in Menoufia province, Egypt, May 15, 2022.(Xinhua/Sui Xiankai)

MENOUFIA, Egypt, May 28 (Xinhua) -- At a feed factory in Sadat City of Menoufia province, north of the Egyptian capital Cairo, workers were loading poultry feed into trucks waiting in line from local farms.



"The poultry feed produced by New Hope company is popular among local farmers because of its good quality," Ibrahim Hassan, a 36-year-old driver, told Xinhua, noting that his truck can carry 10 tons of feed.

Hassan, who works for a local poultry farm to deliver feed, was referring to New Hope Egypt Co., Ltd., the first feed factory established a decade ago in Egypt by New Hope Liuhe Co., Ltd., which is a leading Chinese corporation in feed, animal farming and food industry.

"The number of poultry birds in our farm has reached 3 million, two-thirds of which are fed by feed produced by New Hope," Hassan said.

The feed conversion ratio is a measure of poultry or livestock production efficiency. It is the ratio of given feed weight over animal weight gain in a certain period of time.

"The lower the feed-to-meat ratio, the higher the level of production efficiency and economic benefits. Before we came here, the ratio in the Egyptian feed industry was 1.8, but now, using our feed, the figure has dropped to 1.5," said Su Hao, general manager of New Hope Egypt Co., Ltd.

The strains used by New Hope in feed production in Egypt are imported from China, which boost the ability of broilers to absorb nutrients from the feed and reduce nitrogen production. "We call the product biological feed, which is characterized by high-quality, eco-friendliness and efficiency," said Yang Luofan, manager of the company's quality control department.

New Hope has four feed manufacturing companies and one poultry farming company in Egypt, with an investment of 600 million Chinese yuan (about 90 million U.S. dollars), creating 800 jobs for Egyptians, said Shao Wen, head of New Hope Egypt area affiliated with the overseas business department of New Hope Liuhe Co., Ltd.

The expansion of China's New Hope in Egypt comes under the umbrella of the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) which seeks win-win partnerships among participating states.

"We closely follow the steps of the BRI, supported by more than 40 years of expertise of our Chinese technical teams and using leading production technologies to process high-quality feed, which has played a role in the development of Egypt's agriculture and animal husbandry industry," Shao said, adding that many Egyptians have gained better lives and career paths through working for the Chinese firm.

Mohamed Ramadan joined New Hope Egypt Co., Ltd. 10 years ago and he is now a deputy manager of the company's production department.

"When I first joined New Hope, I was a warehouse manager. Through receiving training and continuous learning at the company, I gradually mastered the advanced feed production technology and eventually became a member of the company's management in Egypt," he said, noting that the company has nearly 200 employees and more than 90 percent of them are Egyptians.

Asmaa Saeid, an Egyptian veterinarian, joined New Hope in 2018. She is a deputy manager of the company's technical service department and is responsible for providing technical support for customers and their farms.

"As a female vet, it was not easy to join the farming service team. When I started visiting poultry farms, many farmers were reluctant to let me in because they were worried that my service was not good enough, but in a short while I gained their trust," Asmaa said proudly.

"Now they feel free to call me and tell me any problems they have with feeding their chickens, and I appreciate New Hope for supporting me and giving me this opportunity," she told Xinhua.

Through New Hope, China has contributed to the development of Egypt's animal husbandry industry, which really represents a "new hope," she concluded.
Cradles of sustainability

Source : China Daily Global Date :

2022-06-05 19:36:03

Cradles of sustainability

CHEN WEI/FOR CHINA DAILY



Eco-compensation schemes need to be developed further to support China's river basin strategies

The Yangtze River and the economic belt it defines play an important role in the historical, cultural and political identity of China, and are also a key driver of the country's economy. It is also one of the world's most bio-diverse regions, with ecosystems and natural resources that underpin national water, food and energy security. Yet over the past four decades, the Yangtze River Basin has undergone large-scale and high-intensity development that has had a severe impact on its ecological and hydrological conditions.

Water pollution, changes in flow, reductions in the wetland area and eutrophication of lakes have significantly affected the basin's ecosystems and biodiversity. The region is emblematic of the challenges China faces as it looks to transition toward sustainable and green development.

The central government has taken a more balanced approach to the development of this region as a priority national strategy, releasing the "Yangtze River Economic Belt Development Plan" in 2016, which was then supported by the country's first law on river basin protection in 2020. In 2018, the Ministry of Finance issued the Guiding Opinions on Establishing Eco-Compensation and Long-Term Protection Mechanism in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, outlining several tasks including emphasizing ecological protection in general fiscal transfers from the central to local governments and particularly increasing the central government transfers from the National Key Ecological Zone Program to the region's provinces.

Accordingly, the central government transfers from the National Key Ecological Zone Program to the 11 Yangtze River provinces had increased from 23.99 billion yuan ($3.59 billion) in 2017 to 32.51 billion yuan in 2020, focusing on provinces in the upper reaches of the river, such as Yunnan, Guizhou and Sichuan.

Defined by monetary incentives for ecologically beneficial actions, eco-compensation in China not only includes direct government payments to individuals and communities for the protection and provision of ecosystem services, but also frameworks for cooperation and fiscal transfers between different local governments.

This stems from the government's efforts to incentivize the reforestation of steep slopes and manage soil and water erosion in the upstream of the Yangtze and Yellow river basins in response to severe hydrological disasters in the late 1990s that cost lives and billions of dollars of economic value.

Eco-compensation mechanismsfiscal transfers used to incentivize and compensate for the costs of ecological protectionare increasingly used to support China's basin strategies of the Yangtze and Yellow rivers, with both their number and scale growing rapidly in varied forms. However, despite the achievements having been made so far, there are still opportunities to further develop and use eco-compensation schemes to support China's river basin strategies.

It is vital to develop national guidelines, standards, and protocols. The National Regulation for Eco-Compensation, formulated by the National Development and Reform Commission in 2020 and currently under consultation, should provide an improved legal basis for the national implementation of eco-compensation schemes.

Specific protocols, regulations, and methods are useful in guiding local implementations and reducing transaction costs, especially in establishing cross-provincial programs. To address the implementation issues related with separating policy areas and providing clear demarcation of implementation and service delivery roles from consultative, executive, regulatory, monitoring, and evaluation roles within and between government agencies, more efforts should be made to coordinate different sector planning processes and sector plans in areas such as the river basin master plan, spatial planning, the environmental and ecological protection plan. River basin authorities could act as conveners to promote inter-jurisdictional coordination.

Developed through basin-wide hydrological and water quality modeling and subsequent basin management plans, basin-level objectives could help provide valuable guidance for sub-national programs, and help target ecosystem synergies and avoid trade offs. Hot spot analysis can be conducted at the basin level to identify locations for the most cost-effective interventions.

At present, the information available to the public remains limited. Greater information publicity and data transparency measures could help increase understanding, accountability and confidence in the results. Some non-governmental organizations have tried to provide more data to the public by machine learning technologies that consolidate various data from online sources, and online platforms and smartphone apps that allow the public to upload and download information.

Funding resources need to be diversified to enhance the sustainability of eco-compensation programs. China's current eco-compensation programs largely rely on government funding. Diversifying funding resources and attracting private sector participation are crucial to the sustainability of those programs and their achieved outcomes. Diversified benefit-sharing mechanisms can also be developed. In addition to financial subsidies, industrial support, technical assistance, talent support, employment training, and other compensation methods should also be encouraged to make their contributions to the eco-compensation drive.

The establishment of an impact evaluation system could promote performance-based financing. Collection of a wider range of ecological indicators would support increasingly sophisticated programs and facilitate impact and performance assessments. This requires enhancing the system of monitoring, tracking and performance evaluation of ecological and environmental spending, which is crucial to maximize the ecological protection outcomes with limited public resources.

The author is an associate professor at the Bay Area International Business School at Beijing Normal University (Zhuhai). The author contributed this article to China Watch, a think tank powered by China Daily.

The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.
Chinas Shenzhou-14 mission has successfully docked with the country's Tiangong space station on Sunday. According to CNN , the three-person crew of the spacecraft arrived at the Tianhe Harmony of the Heavens crew module at 5:42PM local time after launching from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in the Gobi Desert earlier in the day. The arrival marks the start of a six-month stay at the station for the missions astronauts that will see China attempt to make significant progress toward the completion of Tiangong.

The country hopes to finish building the station by the end of the year. Next month, it will launch the first of two lab modules that will expand Tiangongs capabilities, with the latter to follow in October. The modules will allow Chinese astronauts to conduct microgravity and life science research. After the country completed its first-ever tandem spacewalk last year , the Shenzhou-14 crew will conduct multiple EVAs to prepare the station for expansion. Among the three astronauts is Liu Yang, the first Chinese woman to make it to space nearly a decade ago during the countrys Shenzhou-9 mission.
The modern world as we know it simply would not exist if not for the mind of Sir Isaac Newton. His synthesis of differential calculus and pioneering research on the nature of gravity and light are bedrocks of the scientific method. However in his later years, Newton's interests were admittedly drawn towards a decidedly non-scientific subject, alchemy. Does that investigation invalidate Newton's earlier achievement, asks theoretical physicist and philosopher, Carlo Rovelli in the excerpt below. His new book of correspondence and musings, There Are Places in the World Where Rules Are Less Important than Kindness: And Other Thoughts on Physics, Philosophy and the World, Rovelli explores themes spanning from science to history to politics and philosophy.

Riverhead Books

From THERE ARE PLACES IN THE WORLD WHERE RULES ARE LESS IMPORTANT THAN KINDNESS: And Other Thoughts on Physics, Philosophy and the World by Carlo Rovelli published on May 10, 2022 by Riverhead, an imprint of Penguin Publishing Group, a division of Penguin Random House LLC. Copyright  2022 Carlo Rovelli.

In 1936 Sothebys puts up for auction a collection of unpublished writings by Sir Isaac Newton. The price is low, 9,000; not much when compared to the 140,000 raised that season from the sale of a Rubens and a Rembrandt. Among the buyers is John Maynard Keynes, the famous economist, who was a great admirer of Newton. Keynes soon realizes that a substantial part of the manuscript writings deal with a subject that few would have expected Newton to be interested in. Namely: alchemy. Keynes sets out to acquire all of Newtons unpublished writings on the subject, and soon realizes further that alchemy was not something that the great scientist was marginally or briefly curious about: his interest in it lasted throughout his life. Newton was not the first of the Age of Reason, Keynes concludes, he was the last of the magicians.

In 1946 Keynes donated his unpublished Newtoniana to the University of Cambridge. The strangeness of Newton in alchemical guise, seemingly so at odds with the traditional image of him as the father of science, has caused the majority of historians to give the subject a wide berth. Only recently has interest in his passion for alchemy grown. Today a substantial amount of Newtons alchemical texts have been put online by researchers at Indiana University and are now accessible to everyone. Their existence still has the capacity to provoke discussion, and to cast a confusing light over his legacy.

Newton is central to modern science. He occupies this preeminent place because of his exceptional scientific results: mechanics, the theory of universal gravity, optics, the discovery that white light is a mixture of colors, differential calculus. Even today, engineers, physicists, astronomers and chemists work with equations written by him, and use concepts that he first introduced. But even more important than all this, Newton was the founder of the very method of seeking knowledge that today we call modern science. He built upon the work and ideas of others  Descartes, Galileo, Kepler, etc  extending a tradition that goes back to antiquity; but it is in his books that what we now call the scientific method found its modern form, immediately producing a mass of exceptional results. It is no exaggeration to think of Newton as the father of modern science. So, what on earth does alchemy have to do with any of this?

There are those who have seen in these anomalous alchemical activities evidence of mental infirmity brought on by premature aging. There are others who have served their own ends by attempting to enlist the great Englishman among critics of the limitations of scientific rationality.

I think things are much simpler than this.

The key lies in the fact that Newton never published anything on alchemy. The papers that show his interest in the subject are extensive, but they are all unpublished. This lack of publication has been interpreted as a consequence of the fact that alchemy had been illegal in England since as early as the fourteenth century. But the law prohibiting alchemy was lifted in 1689. And besides, if Newton had been so worried about going against laws and conventions, he would not have been Newton. There are those who have portrayed him as some kind of demonic figure attempting to glean extraordinary and ultimate knowledge that he wanted to keep exclusively for himself, to enhance his own power. But Newton really had made extraordinary discoveries, and had not sought to keep those to himself: he published them in his great books, including the Principia, with the equations of mechanics still used today by engineers to build airplanes and edifices. Newton was renowned and extremely well respected during his adult life; he was president of the Royal Society the worlds leading scientific body. The intellectual world was hungry for his results. Why did he not publish anything based on all those alchemical activities?

The answer is very simple, and I believe that it dispels the whole enigma: he never published anything because he never arrived at any results that he found convincing. Today it is easy to rely on the well-digested historical judgment that alchemy had theoretical and empirical foundations that were far too weak. It wasnt quite so easy to reach this conclusion in the seventeenth century. Alchemy was widely practiced and studied by many, and Newton genuinely tried to understand whether it contained a valid form of knowledge. If he had found in alchemy something that could have withstood the method of rational and empirical investigation that he himself was promoting, there can be no doubt that Newton would have published his results. If he had succeeded in extracting from the disorganized morass of the alchemical world something that could have become science, then we would surely have inherited a book by Newton on the subject, just as we have books by him on optics, mechanics and universal gravity. He did not manage to do this, and so he published nothing.

Was it a vain hope in the first place? Was it a project that should have been discarded even before it began? On the contrary: many of the key problems posed by alchemy, and quite a few of the methods it developed, in particular with reference to the transformation of one chemical substance into another, are precisely the problems that would soon give rise to the new discipline of chemistry. Newton does not manage to take the critical step between alchemy and chemistry. That would be down to scientists of the next generation, such as Lavoisier, to achieve.

The texts put online by Indiana University show this clearly. It is true that the language used is typically alchemical: metaphors and allusions, veiled phrases and strange symbols. But many of the procedures described are nothing more than simple chemical processes. For example, he describes the production of oil of vitriol (sulfuric acid), aqua fortis (nitric acid) and spirit of salt (hydrochloric acid). By following Newtons instructions, it is possible to synthesize these substances. The very name that Newton used to refer to his attempts at doing so is a suggestive one: chymistry. Late, post-Renaissance alchemy strongly insisted on the experimental verification of ideas. It was already beginning to face in the direction of modern chemistry. Newton understands that somewhere within the confused miasma of alchemical recipes there is a modern science (in the Newtonian sense) hidden, and he tries to encourage its emergence. He spends a great deal of time immersed in it, but he doesnt succeed in finding the thread that will untie the bundle, and so publishes nothing.

Alchemy was not Newtons only strange pursuit and passion. There is another one that emerges from his papers that is perhaps even more intriguing: Newton put enormous effort into reconstructing biblical chronology, attempting to assign precise dates to events written about in the holy book. Once again, from the evidence of his papers, the results were not great: the father of science estimates that the beginning of the world happened just a few thousand years ago. Why did Newton lose himself in this pursuit?

History is an ancient subject. Born in Miletus with Hecataeus, it is already fully grown with Herodotus and Thucydides. There is a continuity between the work of historians of today and those of antiquity: principally in that critical spirit that is necessary when gathering and evaluating the traces of the past. (The book of Hecataeus begins thus: I write things that seem to me to be true. For the tales of the Greeks are many and laugh able as they seem to me.) But contemporary historiography has a quantitative aspect linked to the crucial effort to establish the precise dates of past events. Furthermore, the critical work of a modern historian must take into account all the sources, evaluating their reliability and weighing the relevance of information furnished. The most plausible reconstruction emerges from this practice of evaluation and of weighted integration of the sources. Well, this quantitative way of writing history begins with Newtons work on biblical chronology. In this case too, Newton is on the track of something profoundly modern: to find a method for the rational reconstruction of the dating of ancient history based on the multiple, incomplete and variably reliable sources that we have at our disposal. Newton is the first to introduce concepts and methods that will later become important, but he did not arrive at results that were sufficiently satisfactory, and once again he publishes nothing on the subject.

In both cases we are not dealing with something that should cause us to deviate from our traditional view of the rationalistic Newton. On the contrary, the great scientist is struggling with real scientific problems. There is no trace of a Newton who would confuse good science with magic, or with untested tradition or authority. The reverse is true; he is the prescient modern scientist who confronts new areas of scientific inquiry clear-sighted, publishing when he succeeds in arriving at clear and important results, and not publishing when he does not arrive at such results. He was brilliant, the most brilliantbut he also had his limits, like everyone else.

I think that the genius of Newton lay precisely in his being aware of these limits: the limits of what he did not know. And this is the basis of the science that he helped to give birth to.
Weeks after NASA decided to postpone testing of its next-generation Space Launch System to make repairs to the rocket , its ready to try again. Starting at 12:01AM on June 6th, technicians at NASAs Kennedy Space Center in Florida will begin rolling out the spacecraft from the facilitys Vehicle Assembly Building. It will take approximately eight to 12 hours for NASA to transport Artemis 1 along the four-mile road to Launch Pad 39B, with the agency planning to livestream part of the event on YouTube.

As Space.com notes , the overnight rollout is a concession toward utility. Moving the vehicle at night means NASA can avoid subjecting it to the worst of Flordias hot and humid daytime weather. Once Artemis 1 is back at Pad 39B, NASA plans to restart the rockets wet dress rehearsal on June 19th. The test is designed to replicate the countdown procedure it will undergo when the Artemis 1 mission hopefully gets underway later this year.

Following an initial attempt on April 1st, NASA attempted to complete a modified version of the trial on April 14th , but that was cut short after technicians discovered a hydrogen leak in the SLS mobile launch tower. NASA eventually decided to roll the rocket back to the Vehicle Assembly Building to fix the issues that had come up in its previous test attempts and give a critical gaseous nitrogen supplier time to complete capacity upgrades.
As expected , Stellantis, the parent company of Dodge and Jeep, has pleaded guilty to criminal conspiracy charges related to its efforts to conceal the amount of pollution produced by its diesel engines. The worlds fifth-largest automaker agreed this week to pay $300 million in penalties to end a multi-year investigation by the US Justice Department, Reuters reported on Friday .

Federal prosecutors accused Stellantis of violating the Clean Air Act, alleging the automaker attempted to deceive US regulators by selling vehicles it knew did not meet national emissions standards. The Justice Department said Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, which merged with Peugeot parent company PSA to form Stellantis in 2021, installed illegal software designed to cheat government emissions tests.

According to the agency, the company purposely programmed its cars to produce fewer emissions during testing than under normal circumstances. The settlement covers approximately 100,000 vehicles sold in the US between 2014 and 2016, including SUVs and pickup trucks produced by the automaker for its Jeep and Ram brands.
For National Cancer Survivors Day, here are some mobile apps that can be helpful for former patients.

Cancer is a terrible and life-threatening complication. Each case and scenario varies differently from one person to another depending on a lot of factors. These mobile apps are only a tool to help you for informational purposes only. When feeling something strange, or wanting to try out a recommended activity or medication, always consult your physician first.

Apps for Cancer Patients and Survivors

Living With

The Living With Cancer app is a mobile application developed by Pfizer's Oncology. This is a free app that can be downloaded from both Google Play and Apple's App Store for free. The app has numerous functions and features to help patients and people who are giving support to their loved ones.

By downloading this app, you can get daily motivation, inspiration, affirmation, and real-life stories from other people's experiences. This also allows tracking to be easier since it has a feature that allows you to track both your pain level and mood. This can also record your sleep and your steps. It also has features to help you with your daily tasks and helps you make the most of your doctor's appointment.

Cancer.Net Mobile

Another app that we recommend is Cancer.Net Mobile. Cancer.Net is a mobile application that can be downloaded on mobile devices running the iOS and Android operating systems. The application gives users access to a comprehensive set of tools that can assist them in managing their cancer care, as well as reliable, oncologist-approved information.

This app was developed by the American Society of Clinical Oncology. This has always been well known for reliable information and has won multiple awards.

The app features tracking of symptoms. It will note the date, time, and severity of the symptom.

This also has a great feature that will be beneficial to a lot of users: the log medication tab. You can input your medications, the dosage, the time, the frequency, and it also sets a reminder.

This mobile app also has a generous library of information called the Get Information section. In addition to the most recent videos, podcasts, and blog articles from the Cancer.Net website, these up-to-date guides cover 125 different types of cancer and cover topics such as therapy, managing side effects, the cost of care, and living with cancer.

Not only is this available in English, but the app is also available in Spanish.

Read Also: Preparing In Cases of Emergency: Here's How To Set Your Apple Watch for Emergency SOS

ChemoWave

ChemoWave is a free app developed together with the Cancer.Net team. This app will help you with your daily activities such as tracking your eating, water intake, mood, sleeping, and steps or exercises. For your health, it helps patients and caregivers track medication, symptoms, treatments, and appointments.

Furthermore, the app can record the patient's ongoing symptoms and condition. With that, you can discover new information about yourself with the use of AI-powered personal insights that are generated based on connections between your symptoms, emotions, and treatment actions.

This one is a top mobile health application that has been supported by scientific assessment as an excellent tool for tracking patient-reported outcomes for cancer patients.

ChemoWave gives people battling cancer access to their own personal insights, which enables them to collaborate more effectively with their physicians or other members of their care team to better control the negative side effects and symptoms of their treatment.

Important Note: When downloading mobile apps about your health and wellness, given the fact that you have a cancer diagnosis, exercise caution and be wary of taking recommendations unless approved by your physicians and specialists.

Additionally, be sure that the apps that you are using are credible, accurate, and reliable, backed by scientific research and evidence. The recommended apps above will be helpful for your day-to-day living, especially if you use the data gathered to work closely with your physicians to better understand your current health status.

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Across the globe, countries are rearming  and this is especially true in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), the region has imported more military equipment in the past decade than all but one other (Asia and Oceania). But countries in the MENA region are not only enthusiastic importers of weapons. They are also increasingly aiming to create indigenous defence capabilities and become exporters themselves. Their goals are to make inroads into the lucrative defence sector, to reduce the pressure on their own budgets by being able to buy domestically, and to support allies across the region with military hardware. This trend will have consequences not only for security in the region but also for Europe and how it deals with states that do not have the same ethical standards as European countries.

Turkey has led the way in such efforts, setting an example that states across the MENA are now emulating. Ankara has reaped the geopolitical benefits of the production and sale of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs or drones), especially in terms of security and deterrence capabilities. For example, Turkey has used drones to protect its foreign policy interests in Syria and the eastern Mediterranean  and to extend its influence beyond the region, such as through the support for Azerbaijan, which helped the latter win its 2020 conflict with Armenia over Nagorno-Karabakh. Turkey was able to play this role because it spent years developing solid technological expertise and an industrial base. Other countries are now following suit. For instance, the United Arab Emirates is also developing its own drone industry and has deployed drones to support its allies and proxies in Libya, Yemen, and Ethiopia.

Local companies are now investing heavily in unmanned systems, especially unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs), as well as loitering munitions (expendable missiles capable of staying airborne for some time until they identify a target and attack). These systems have performed remarkably well in war zones such as Libya and Syria. Turkeys Baykar and Israel Aerospace Industries have risen through the ranks of global drone manufacturers. They have expanded their market presence thanks to innovative and relatively cheap systems such as the TB-2 UCAV and the Harpy family of loitering munitions, which have already seen extensive use in battle, including in Ukraine. The expendability, affordability, and effectiveness of the Turkish TB-2 have made it the best-selling drone in history.

The region is poised to become one of the largest drone hubs in the world. Without the legal limitations and ethical constraints associated with the use of US- and other Western-made systems, states in the region will capitalize on indigenous drones and loitering munitions to reduce their dependence on Western products. The benefits for them include mitigating the risk of supply chain disruptions, increasing their room for manoeuvre when diplomacy fails to deliver, and establishing advantageous security partnerships with like-minded actors. Loitering munitions are drawing increasing attention because they are more cost-effective medium- and long-range precision strike systems.

For countries in the region, greater indigenous production can help alleviate the fiscal burden on national treasuries by reducing the need for expensive imports and can support national economies by creating highly skilled workforces. And states are throwing their weight behind this effort: in the past year alone, the region has hosted four prestigious defence exhibitions, including the largest one in the world, which recently concluded in Riyadh. Saudi Arabia is aiming to increase its capacity to cover its own defence procurement needs from barely 2% in 2018 to 50% by 2030. The UAE has already developed a capacity to manufacture arms locally, mainly through its state-owned defence conglomerate, EDGE Group (on 23rd place in SIPRIs top 100 global military and defence manufacturers list). The UAE has become the worlds 18th-biggest arms exporter, ahead of South Africa and Brazil, mostly by selling weapons to customers such as Egypt, Jordan, and Algeria.

Smaller-scale attempts at indigenisation have also boosted Egypts and Qatars defence industries. At Egypt Defence Expo 2021, Cairo presented the Noot tactical UAV and the forthcoming Thebes-30, a combat drone designed by local firm Industrial Complex Engineering Robots. The same company also produces the EJune-30, a licensed copy of the Emirati-designed Yabhon Flash 20, underlining the strong relationship between Cairo and Abu Dhabi in defence cooperation. In Qatar, the local incubator for military technology, Barzan Holdings, is working on several unmanned systems, including a high-altitude long-endurance drone and unmanned ground vehicles  the latter of which is being produced as part of a joint venture with German defence giant Rheinmetall.

Egypt, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE are the Middle Eastern states most active in bolstering their own drone fleets with indigenously made platforms. EDGE Group recently developed the Hunter-2 series of portable tactical UAVs and loitering munitions. These are easily deployable, can operate in swarms, and will complement the groups drone portfolio. EDGE Group is the first Arab company to develop swarming drones with artificial intelligence capabilities. Similarly, Saudi conglomerate INTRA Defence Technologies has unveiled its newest UCAV, the Samoom, which may be a promising solution for the Saudi military and adds to the countrys indigenous Saker UAV family. Both Abu Dhabi and Riyadh have so far relied on Chinese drones such as the Wing Loong I and II, but they could progressively shift towards domestic systems that are easier to maintain and integrate into their command-and-control structures.

Like Turkey and Israel, Iran is positioning itself as a major drone power in the region. Yet Irans approach to drone development is remarkably different from that of its neighbours. The country built up its vast drone fleet over many years mainly out of necessity, aiming to compensate for its old and decaying air force, which has been battered by decades of sanctions. Thanks to reverse-engineering and components smuggling, Iran is now able to deploy several types of combat drones and loitering munitions, some of which have beyond-line-of-sight communications and long-range-strike capabilities. However, Iranian drones have remained largely on the margins of the global defence market. For example, Iran has exported an undisclosed number of Mohajer-6s to Ethiopia and has delivered other systems to regional allies such as the Syrian government, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and the Houthis in Yemen. Indeed, for Tehran, the market dimension of drones is of secondary importance to their role in strengthening national security and buoying the regimes propaganda for both domestic consumption and external deterrence.

Meanwhile, Algeria and Morocco are also hotspots for drone proliferation. Fuelled by their long-standing geopolitical rivalry, the two countries have in recent years significantly strengthened their drone capabilities by acquiring foreign systems. These include Rabats purchase of the TB-2 and the Wing Loong I, as well as Algerias acquisition of several models of the Chinese CH family. Algerias and Moroccos attempts at indigenisation have been on a smaller scale than those of many other countries in the region. But Morocco remains ambitious in this area: it recently signed a significant aviation deal with the Israel Aerospace Industries that is likely to cover UAV technology.

The proliferation of UCAVs throughout the MENA has not been accompanied by effective regulation of their use; their growth has led to a vast number of civilian casualties and violations of international humanitarian law in all conflicts in the region. This is taking place at a time when overall arms imports by Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Qatar have risen 27%, 227%, and 73% respectively. These facts should prompt the international community, including the Europeans, to assume a leading role in ensuring the use of drones meets internationally recognised standards of oversight, transparency, and accountability. The European Union has a core interest in developing its own drone technology and preserving and expanding member states defence partnerships. However, the EU should also invest its political and diplomatic capital in devising a shared drone accountability regime designed to limit civilian casualties and to make the misuse of such systems intolerably costly.

Tools of Influence: Drone Proliferation in the Middle East and North Africa  Commentary by Federico Borsari  European Council on Foreign Relations / ECFR.

The Commentary can be downloaded here
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed at the end of the 101st day of full-scale war. On that day, the Skete of All Saints burned down in the Svyatohirsk Lavra in the Donetsk region. It caught fire as a result of Russian artillery shelling.Zelenskyy noted that the building withstood World War II, but did not withstand the Russian occupation. Russia is deliberately and systematically destroying Ukraine's cultural and historical heritage, as well as social infrastructure, housing, and everything necessary for normal life, - Volodymyr Zelenskyy added.
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BEIJING (AP)  China on Sunday launched a new three-person mission to complete assembly work on its permanent orbiting space station.

The Shenzhou 14 crew will spend six months on the Tiangong station, during which they will oversee the addition of two laboratory modules to join the main Tianhe living space that was launched in April 2021.

Their spaceship blasted off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on the edge of the Gobi Desert at 10:44 a.m. (0244 GMT) atop the crewed space flight programs workhorse Long March 2F rocket. Fifteen minutes later, it reached low Earth orbit and opened its solar panels, drawing applause from ground controllers in Jiuquan and Beijing.

The launch was broadcast live on state television, indicating a rising level of confidence in the capabilities of the space program, which has been promoted as a sign of China's technological progress and global influence.

Commander Chen Dong and fellow astronauts Liu Yang and Cai Xuzhe will assemble the three-module structure joining the existing Tianhe with Wentian and Mengtian, due to arrive in July and October. Another cargo craft, the Tianzhou-3, remains docked with the station.

The arrival of the new modules will provide more stability, more powerful functions, more complete equipment, said Chen, 43, who was a member of the Shenzhou 11 mission in 2016, at a press conference Saturday.

Liu, 43, is also a space veteran and was Chinas first female astronaut to reach space aboard the Shenzhou 9 mission in 2012. Cai, 46, is making his first space trip.

Chinas space program launched its first astronaut into orbit in 2003, making it only the third country to do so on its own after the former Soviet Union and the U.S.

It has landed robot rovers on the moon and placed one on Mars last year. China has also returned lunar samples and officials have discussed a possible crewed mission to the moon.

Chinas space program is run by the ruling Communist Partys military wing, the Peoples Liberation Army, prompting the U.S. to exclude it from the International Space Station.

Chen, Liu and Cai will be joined at the end of their mission for three to five days by the crew of the upcoming Shenzhou 15, marking the first time the station will have had six people aboard.
Federal prosecutors have reached a settlement agreement with the construction company that built a troubled private border fence along the Rio Grande in South Texas.

The settlement caps off 2 years of legal wrangling after the federal government sued Fisher Industries and its subsidiaries, alleging that the 18-foot-tall and 3-mile-long fence led to erosion so significant that it threatened to shift the border and could cause the structure to collapse into the river, affecting a major dam.

Under the agreement, the company must conduct quarterly inspections, maintain an existing gate that allows for the release of floodwaters and keep a $3 million bond, a type of insurance, for 15 years, or until the property is transferred to the government, to cover any expenses in case the structure fails.

Experts told ProPublica and the Texas Tribune that the settlement provides insufficient protection to the Rio Grandes shoreline and leaves too much discretion to the builder when it comes to maintaining and inspecting the bollard fence.

Theyre putting Band-Aids on top of Band-Aids to fix the initial problem that they caused, said Adriana E. Martinez, a Southern Illinois University Edwardsville professor who studies river systems. She said the settlement does not require enough from the company to prevent additional flooding or damage from the fence.

The settlement lets Fisher Industries select the places along the fence to inspect for damage, decide what triggers some repairs and reject any proposed changes to the maintenance plan suggested by the government. It also allows the company to police itself instead of requiring a third-party inspector, said Amy Patrick, a Houston forensic structural and civil engineer and court-recognized expert on wall construction.

It appears as though they are trusting the contractor far more than I have seen other contractors trusted, she said.

As part of the settlement, Fisher and its subsidiary must destroy copies of an engineering report, commissioned by the Department of Justice, that studied the projects soundness. Federal officials said the report contains proprietary information.

ProPublica and the Tribune requested copies of the report in August, months before the settlement, but the DOJ refused to provide the records, citing a confidentiality order in the ongoing lawsuit.

Ryan Patrick, former U.S. attorney for the Southern District of Texas, said his office first filed the lawsuit to stop the construction of the project because it violated the law and it was too close to the river. We always knew it was a joke, but it was a dangerous joke, said Patrick, now a partner at a law firm in Houston.

Patrick said he still thinks the fence should be removed, but he declined to discuss the settlement, saying there might be information related to the difficulty or cost of taking it down that he doesnt know since he left office in February 2021. But I am still concerned for the surrounding towns if a big storm hits that thing.

Neither the builder, Tommy Fisher, nor his companys attorney responded to requests for comment. DOJ officials declined to comment, saying they did not have additional information besides what was available in court documents.

Fisher Industries started building the bollard fence along the banks of the Rio Grande in 2019 as part of a wider effort of We Build the Wall, a nonprofit organization founded by Brian Kolfage, an Air Force veteran. The nonprofit raised more than $25 million, Kolfage said, to help former President Donald Trump build his big, beautiful wall along the border. In April, Kolfage pleaded guilty to federal charges of defrauding donors of hundreds of thousands of dollars in contributions to the wall effort.

The government filed a lawsuit soon after Fisher started construction of the project. It alleged the fence violated a treaty with Mexico that requires both countries to approve any development that can affect the international boundary. A state district judge in Hidalgo County granted the government a temporary restraining order to stop construction, but a federal judge reversed it a month later.

By February 2020, Fisher completed the 3-mile fence along the rivers edge.

Later that year, ProPublica and the Tribune reported that severe erosion at the base of the fence outside of Mission could result in the structure toppling into the Rio Grande if not fixed.

Following the reporting, Trump attempted to distance himself from the project, saying on Twitter that it had been constructed to make him look bad, despite some members of his family and top advisers previously vouching for it.

Two engineering reports, commissioned by the nearby National Butterfly Center, a nonprofit that opposed the project because of flooding concerns, later confirmed the news organizations findings.

In the summer of 2020, Hurricane Hanna dumped about 15 inches of rain into the area, leaving waist-deep cracks on the banks of the Rio Grande along parts of the fence, which threatened the structural integrity of the project, experts told ProPublica and the Tribune at the time. Fisher, the CEO who put more than $40 million of his own money into the project, told ProPublica and the Tribune that erosion was expected given the amount of rainfall.

He said his company had fixed the erosion, in part by adding a 10-foot-wide road made out of rocks for the Border Patrol to drive over. I feel very comfortable with what weve done, he said a month after the hurricane.

But Marianna Trevino-Wright, executive director of the National Butterfly Center, said she worries that the hurricane season, which began Wednesday and is expected to be more active than usual, could cause the structure to fail, potentially flooding communities and properties on both sides of the border and damaging the Anzalduas Dam, which provides irrigation water in the Rio Grande Valley.

Trevino-Wright called the settlement agreement a total miscarriage of justice.

Sally Spener, a spokesperson for the International Boundary and Water Commission, which will be in charge of oversight as part of the settlement, expressed support for the agreement and said she believed it addressed previous concerns. The binational commission is now responsible for ensuring the owners comply with the inspections and address any issues that arise.

Patrick, the former prosecutor, called the fence a mess that will have long-term implications.

Looks like the builders of this thing are going to have to feed and care for this white elephant for quite some time and will in the end be far more expensive and a pain to deal with than they ever envisioned, he said.

This article is co-published with ProPublica, a nonprofit newsroom that investigates abuses of power. The Texas Tribune is a nonprofit, nonpartisan media organization that informs Texans about public policy, politics, government and statewide issues.
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Major Republican donors, including some that have contributed to Gov. Greg Abbotts campaigns, joined other conservative Texans in signing an open letter supporting congressional action to increase gun restrictions in response to the May 24 mass shooting in Uvalde that left 19 children and two teachers dead.

The letter, which ran as a full-page ad in the Dallas Morning News on Sunday, endorses creating red flag laws, expanding background checks and raising the age to purchase a gun to 21. More than 250 self-declared gun enthusiasts signed it.

Most law enforcement experts believe these measures would make a difference, the letter reads. And recent polls of fellow conservatives suggest that there is strong support for such gun-safety measures.

The letter voices support for Texas senior senator, John Cornyn, who has been tapped to lead bipartisan negotiations in Congress over possible gun reform measures.

We are grateful that our Senator John Cornyn is leading efforts to address the recent tragedies in Uvalde and elsewhere across our great Country, the letter says. Hes the right man to lead this bipartisan effort, as he has demonstrated throughout his career.

In an interview with Politico, Cornyn stressed that he was not interested in restricting the rights of law-abiding citizens under the Second Amendment, but said it would be embarrassing if Uvalde didnt spark Congress to reach some sort of bipartisan legislative response.

The letter was paid for by Todd Maclin, a former senior executive at J.P. Morgan Chase who now runs the Dallas-based finance firm Maclin Management. Maclin said he is a conservative gun owner who has been stirred to action by the shooting in Uvalde.

These events have really motivated me and really gotten under my skin and encouraged me to support the effort thats underway, Maclin told the Texas Tribune. I just felt like I needed to do something, and I also believe that there are reasonable things that can be done.

He said he is still hearing from more conservative gun owners who are feeling a great sense of urgency and a great need to support (Cornyn) as he does his best to address these issues.

Maclin said the group is focusing on federal legislation, which he believes is the best avenue to passing gun safety laws and ensuring they are applied uniformly across the country. He declined to comment on the state response to the shooting or gun legislation, except to say that he hopes any federal plan led by Cornyn and passed with conservative support would be embraced by state governments.

Among the signatories are deep-pocketed Abbott supporters, including billionaires Robert Rowling, whose holding company owns Omni Hotels, and Ray L. Hunt, executive chairman of Hunt Consolidated Inc.

The contents of the letter are in line with policies Abbott and other party leaders, including Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, have supported in the past  though not the ones they are endorsing now.

After the 2018 school shooting in Santa Fe, outside Houston, Abbott supported red flag laws, which would allow local officials to take someones guns away if a judge declares them to be a danger. He later dropped his support for the measure, citing a coalescence against it from his own party.

The next year, after back-to-back mass shootings in El Paso and Midland-Odessa, Patrick said he was willing to take an arrow from the National Rifle Association and support expanding background checks.

The next time the Legislature met, however, lawmakers instead passed a law that allows Texans to carry a handgun without a license or training.

This time, neither Patrick nor Abbott have expressed any support for tightening gun laws. They have instead offered suggestions that have ranged from expanding mental health services and minimizing the entrances to school buildings to doing surprise security checks.

On the federal level, both Cornyn and Sen. Ted Cruz have A+ ratings from the NRA and are top Senate recipients of gun industry donations. But theyve taken differering tacks in response to the shooting in Uvalde.

Cruz said in the wake of the massacre that passing laws that restrict gun access doesnt work. Its not effective. It doesnt prevent crime. But Cornyn has shown a willingness, now and in the past, to support some bipartisan gun legislation.

In the wake of the 2017 Sutherland Springs shooting outside San Antonio, Cornyn worked with Democratic colleagues to improve the background check system to prevent felons and domestic abusers from purchasing firearms.

He also has supported banning bump stocks, which allow semi-automatic guns to fire faster, and shepherded into law a bill that funded the screening and treatment of offenders with mental illness.

After the May 24 shooting, Cornyn has said hes not interested in making a political statement, but is focused on making the terrible events that occurred in Uvalde less likely in the future.

Disclosure: Politico and Robert Rowling have been financial supporters of the Texas Tribune. Financial supporters play no role in the Tribune's journalism.

The Texas Tribune is a nonprofit, nonpartisan media organization that informs Texans about public policy, politics, government and statewide issues.
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A woman died after being shot in the head early Sunday morning, according to the San Antonio Police Department.

At approximately 4:45 a.m. officers received a call for a woman shot in the head in the 4300 block of Bloomdale Street. When officers arrived they found the woman in the street. She was pronounced dead.
A man has been arrested after a woman reported that she had been kidnapped and held against her will for several days, Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar said Saturday.

The woman escaped from a home in the 11200 block of Briggs Road early Saturday and ran to a neighbors house, where she called for help, the sheriff said.

She told a deputy that she had been kidnapped by a man she previously had been involved with, Jason Daniel Steele, 46, who had then driven her out in the middle of nowhere in an apparent attempt to abandon her, Salazar said. Investigators believe he took her to Tempe, Ariz.

However, Salazar said the woman was able to convince Steele to return to Texas. Steele drove them to the home on Briggs Road, where he locked her in a bedroom, according to Salazar. During that time, Salazar said, Steele assaulted, threatened and refused to feed the woman. He also attempted to sexually assault her, he added.

After she filed a report with the Bexar County Sheriffs Office, two warrants were issued for Steeles arrest, one for aggravated kidnapping and one for domestic violence-2nd offense.

When a SWAT team arrived at the home later that morning to execute the warrants, Steele emerged and was taken into custody.

However, Salazar said the other inhabitants of the home refused to cooperate and leave. Eventually, the SWAT team sent tear gas into the home, cut off power and water and breached the front door, he said. The remaining inhabitants then surrendered.

Salazar pointed out that several other people did possibly assist to a certain extent in holding the woman. Currently, we have four suspects in custody, he said Saturday.

Salazar said the sheriffs office is focused on helping the woman heal from what he described as a very traumatic experience and has offered her access to social services.
China, Timor-Leste agree to strengthen regional cooperation, safeguard multilateralism

Xinhua) 16:30, June 05, 2022

President of Timor-Leste Jose Ramos-Horta (L) meets with visiting Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Dili, Timor-Leste, June 4, 2022. (Xinhua/Xu Qin)

DILI, June 4 (Xinhua) -- President of Timor-Leste Jose Ramos-Horta and visiting Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Saturday expressed common willingness to strengthen regional cooperation and safeguard multilateralism.

During their meeting in Dili, the capital of Timor-Leste, Ramos-Horta said his country fully supports the Belt and Road Initiative and other major initiatives proposed by China. China's development benefits Timor-Leste greatly, and is of great significance to the region and the world.

Ramos-Horta thanked the Chinese government and people for their tremendous support in the past years, stressing that Timor-Leste has unswervingly adhered to the one-China policy since the establishment of diplomatic ties.

Timor-Leste is full of confidence and expectation for the future of bilateral relations, the president said.

For his part, Wang expressed appreciation to Ramos-Horta for signing the joint communique on establishing diplomatic ties with China on the day of independence in 2002 when he served as the first foreign minister of Timor-Leste.

Over the past 20 years, Wang said, China and Timor-Leste have treated each other as equals, understood each other and supported each other. Timor-Leste has become an important partner of the Belt and Road Initiative, and China has played a positive role in Timor-Leste's socio-economic development, infrastructure construction and improvement of people's lives.

Immediately after the COVID-19 outbreak, China sent medical supplies to Timor-Leste to help its fight against the pandemic. Chinese medical teams have benefited more than 300,000 people in the country. China has also taken an active part in the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Timor-Leste, Wang said.

China is ready to work with Timor-Leste to take the 20th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties as an opportunity to review their successful experience and draw up a blueprint for the future, so as to elevate their comprehensive cooperative partnership to a new level and set an example of mutual respect, equality, mutual benefit and common development among countries of all sizes, Wang said.

Wang called for efforts to promote high-quality joint construction of the Belt and Road and initiate new landmark projects. China is willing to support Timor-Leste in enhancing its capability for self-development, accelerating its agricultural modernization and industrialization, and achieving diversified development, he said.

The Chinese side will continue to encourage Chinese enterprises to invest and start businesses in Timor-Leste, contributing to its development and revitalization, Wang added.

Both sides also reached consensus on strengthening regional cooperation.

Wang said China supports Timor-Leste playing an active role in regional and international affairs, and expects to see its early entry into the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, on which Ramos-Horta expressed gratitude for China's support as well as the hope that the long-cherished wish will come true at an early date.

Both sides pledged to uphold and safeguard multilateralism.

Wang said China expects Timor-Leste to take an active part in the China-proposed Global Development Initiative and Global Security Initiative, both of which have won widespread support.

Timor-Leste always sticks to its principles despite being a small nation, Ramos-Horta said, noting that his country advocates peaceful settlement of differences through dialogue and consultation as well as unity in responding to challenges facing international peace and security.

Wang is on a visit to Timor-Leste, the last leg of his Pacific tour starting from May 26, which has taken him to island countries of the Solomon Islands, Kiribati, Samoa, Fiji, Tonga, Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Bianji)
Passengers stand in line for at a check-in counter at Terminal 1 of the Incheon International Airport, Friday. Newsis





By Anna J. Park







Stock prices of so-called LCCs, or low-cost carriers, continue to move upward lately, reflecting the country's revitalized travel sector, with the number of international travelers increasing.







According to the Korea Exchange (KRX), the stock price of Jeju Air saw a weekly increase of 7.73 percent, as the price rose from 20,700 won ($16.53) logged on May 27 to last Friday's closing price of 22,300 won. When compared to the intra-day trading price of 18,800 won on May 26, the airplane stock rose by 18.6 percent in just eight days.







Other low-cost carriers, including Jin Air and T'way Air, also logged a weekly increase of 2.23 percent and 3.37 percent during the same period.







The rise in flight carriers' stock prices is mainly attributed to the Japanese government's recent decision announced on May 26 to permit the entrance of foreign travelers into the country from May 10.







It has been two years since Japan opened its doors, due to the effects of the global pandemic that began in 2020. The stock price of Jeju Air, which has a larger proportion of flights to Japan compared to other competing carriers, rose much more than other LLCs during the past week, reflecting market expectations.







The Korean government's decision announced earlier this month to normalize the number of international flights to pre-pandemic levels also boosted low-cost carriers' stock value.







The land ministry decided last Friday to lift restrictions imposed on the number of flights per hour as well as flight curfew hours at Incheon international airport, after more than two years and two months. With the restrictions gone, the number of incoming flights at the airport has increased to 40, the pre-pandemic level, from the 20 flights during the pandemic era. The flight curfew hours of 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. will also be removed, officially returning the airport to a 24-hour operation.







With the favorable moves both in and outside of the country, low-cost carriers' revenues are expected to rapidly increase throughout the year.







"With the increase in the volume of traffic, low-cost carriers are expected to make a turnaround in profits during the second half of this year," Jung Yeon-seung, an analyst at NH Investment & Securities, said. "With the restrictions lifting, this year's number of international flights will be recovered to about 46 percent of the number of international flights made in the year 2019," the analyst added.







Facing the summer peak season after a two-year freeze, low-cost carriers have been focusing on capital increases. Jeju Air issued perpetual notes worth 79 billion won last month, while T'way Air increased capital by issuing new stocks worth 120 billion won in May. Air Busan also announced plans to raise 200 billion won by offering new stocks.






Farming and rural businesses are being offered a grant scheme worth 60,000 to help provide affordable accommodation along the North Downs Way.

The grant is being offered to businesses in the region who can offer low-cost and accessible places to stay along the North Downs Way.

The scheme is a collaboration between North Downs Way National Trail, Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (ANOB) Unit and Kent County Council.

The accommodation must be attractive to walkers, hikers, and riders, or those looking for a more back to nature overnight stay.

The grant aims to support new and low-cost accommodation to attract more walkers and cyclists to the area of outstanding natural beauty, who are looking for a cheap but comfortable place to stay on their journey.

Grants starting from 3,000 are available to relevant businesses such as landowners and existing hospitality offerings, on or within 5km, by foot or cycle, of the North Downs Way in Kent.

Suitable accommodation must have a low or positive impact on the landscape. Grant organisers are also keen to receive applications for unique accommodation, unlike anything else in the area.

Examples include camping pods and bothies, existing structure conversions such as barns, and all season nearly wild camping with basic services including toilets and showers.

To help create a more inclusive experience, planned accommodation must be priced at a maximum of 40 per night and offer both single night and single person stays.

Applicants are encouraged to make provision for guests with mobility, hearing, and sight loss. And to attract walkers and riders rather than visitors in cars, provision of bike storage and/or a drying room is also encouraged.

Catherine Bradley, European & Project Development Manager for Kent Downs AONB, explains the benefits of the scheme for businesses and guests.

We believe everyone should be able to experience all that the beautiful North Downs Way has to offer, regardless of age, ability or affordability," she said.

"The scheme provides a fantastic opportunity for businesses to create something not only new and unusual but also accessible for a range of different guests  some of whom might not have considered this type of trip before.

Applicants may have questions about the scheme or application process, and I would urge them to get in touch.

Were really looking forward to helping applicants expand their businesses in a way that attracts more visitors and enhances the area.

The closing date for applications is 31 August, and projects must be completed by 31st January 2023 and ready to launch the same year.
Prince Harrys new initiative encourages travellers to choose sustainable options when planning their next trip



Inspired by the Maori values of sustainability, kaitiakitanga (guardianship and protection) and manaakitanga (love and compassion), Prince Harry  the Duke of Sussex  has launched an eco-travel campaign in New Zealand.







The Duke of Sussex leads the non profit Travalyst, an organisation that works to make sustainable travel mainstream. This initiative encourages travellers to consider sustainable options in trip planning using a rating tool on Travalyst. You need to visit the Travalyst site and answer five questions about your holiday practices. You will be rated in terms of sustainability and offered tips on how to make better choices. Travalyst also features stories from local travel operators who are at the forefront of sustainable travel.



The royal launched the initiative with an appearance on the Te Ao with Moana programme on the Maori TV channel. Describing how Maori culture is intrinsically sustainable and committed to taking care of the land, he urged visitors to go the extra mile for the planet by supporting local businesses and contributing to local conservation efforts.



As part of the launch, Prince Harry also acted in a video with Kiwi actors Rena Owen, Dave Fane and Rhys Darby. They play the part of ratings agents trialing a system in which holiday destinations rate their visitors. The Duke of Sussex is rated on his activities on a previous trip to New Zealand with his wife Meghan, especially his use of hotel towels, toothbrushing habits, littering and buying local honey  all in jest, of course.



The Duke is quoted to have said on Te Ao with Moana, A few years ago, I founded Travalyst, a non-profit dedicated to making sustainable tourism mainstream for all of us, and through that making systemic change Every year, more and more of us want better options, and for the first time Travalyst is striving to make that reality for everybody who wants to support local communities and looking after nature and wildlife.



For our first campaign, we are encouraging people to flip the script. Were always being asked for our feedback on our trips and experiences, but what would happen if our holiday rated us? Its an important question to ask, and we want all of you to help us answer it. He added, Guided by Maori knowledge and practices, Aotearoa (the Maori name for New Zealand) is a country of sustainability pioneers. The Maori culture inherently understands sustainable practices and how to take better care of our life-giving land, which are critical lessons which we can all learn.







Prince Harry has also endorsed an initiative spearheaded by Tourism New Zealand. The Tiaki Promise encourages visitors to support local communities, look after nature and wildlife, and protect and preserve New Zealand as a guardian.



Images: Shutterstock



Also see: Pack Mindfully For More Sustainable Travel
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Hrithik Roshan has an interesting lineup of films to look forward to. One of them is undoubtedly Vikram Vedha which is a Tamil remake by director duo - Pushkar and Gayathri.

Recently, Gayathri spoke up on why Hrithik Roshan was the apt choice for the film. She went on to share how after the Tamil release of the film back in 2017, Hrithik Roshan was the first actor to give them a call. It was like he could see into the soul of Vikram Vedha and embody it perfectly. She went on to further add how Hrithik is a delight to work with and always aims to make the project bigger and better. He has absolutely no ego when it comes to brainstorming and getting things clarified.

The Tamil version had R Madhavan and Vijay Sethupathi in the lead. The Hindi remake has Saif Ali Khan in the lead along with Hrithik Roshan. As per reports, a set imitating Lucknow has been created in Abu Dhabi where a certain part of the film has been shot already.





ikram Vedha
90% of patients achieve tumor size reductions

40% of patients achieve partial response, i.e. tumor size reductions of more than 50%

Regulatory News:

NOXXON Pharma N.V. (Euronext Growth Paris: ALNOX) (Paris:ALNOX), a biotechnology company focused on improving cancer treatments by targeting the tumor microenvironment (TME), announced today the publication of the full top-line results from the NOX-A12 Phase 1/2 GLORIA trial in brain cancer (glioblastoma) in a poster presentation at the 2022 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting, taking place in Chicago, Illinois, US, from June 3 to June 7, 2022.

The poster presentation entitled "Radiotherapy and olaptesed pegol (NOX-A12) in partially resected or biopsy-only MGMT-unmethylated glioblastoma: Interim data from the German multicenter phase 1/2 GLORIA trial" was presented by Dr. Frank A. Giordano and highlighted that:

90% of patients who received NOX-A12 and radiotherapy achieved tumor size reductions vs. 25% of patients in a matched reference cohort receiving standard of care.

40% of patients who received NOX-A12 and radiotherapy achieved partial response (defined as tumor size reduction of more than 50%) vs. 10% in a matched reference cohort receiving standard of care.

In 30% of patients who received NOX-A12 and radiotherapy, one or more non-target lesions (smaller secondary lesions) completely disappeared.

Infiltration of the tumor with activated, cytotoxic T-cells and M1-like macrophages was seen in both patients who had repeat surgery during NOX-A12 therapy, consistent with NOX-A12 and radiotherapy overcoming immune cell exclusion and making the tumors immunologically hotter.

The combination of NOX-A12 and radiotherapy was safe and well tolerated, with no dose limiting toxicities and no treatment-related deaths. Only 4% of the adverse events of Grade 2 or more were deemed solely NOX-A12-related.

Aram Mangasarian, CEO of NOXXON, commented: "We are excited about these impressive results, which demonstrate the potential of our lead asset NOX-A12 in brain cancer and further substantiate our innovative approach of targeting the tumor microenvironment. We will continue to report on maturing data from the dose-escalation part of the study and are looking forward to interim read-outs from the ongoing expansion study exploring additional combination therapies, which will help us design our planned pivotal trial. Brain cancer is a very difficult to treat condition and these results bring us a step closer to offering improved treatment options and hope for patients."

Dr. Frank A. Giordano, Director and Chair of the Department of Radiation Oncology at the University Hospital Bonn and the lead investigator of the GLORIA trial, commented: "These encouraging results show a strong response to NOX-A12 and radiotherapy, with 90% of patients achieving tumor size reduction. In addition to this, the 40% of patients who have achieved more than 50% tumor size reduction under NOX-A12 treatment is a considerable increase over the 22% disclosed in the previous interim data analysis, and a multi-fold increase over the 10% achieved by the reference cohort receiving standard of care. This suggests the promising clinical efficacy of this new approach to directly target CXCL12 in glioblastoma."

A copy of the poster presentation and a video describing the poster, is available on the NOXXON website. More information about the GLORIA study (NCT04121455) can be found at ClinicalTrials.gov.

Following the ASCO 2022 conference, NOXXON will host a Key Opinion Leader (KOL) webinar with Dr. Giordano, who will take the audience through the ASCO poster presentation and discuss the results of the GLORIA Phase 1/2 trial in more detail.

Details of the Key Opinion Leader webinar are as follows:

Title: KOL Webinar on GLORIA Top-Line Results of NOX-A12 Radiotherapy Combination in First-Line Glioblastoma Presented at ASCO 2022

Presenter: Dr. Frank A. Giordano, Director and Chair of the Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Bonn, Germany

Webinar time and date: June 10, 2022, at 02:00 p.m. CEST (08:00 a.m. EDT)

Registration: To register for the event, please click here

About NOXXON

NOXXON's oncology-focused pipeline acts on the tumor microenvironment (TME) and the cancer immunity cycle by breaking the tumor protection barrier and blocking tumor repair. By neutralizing chemokines in the TME, NOXXON's approach works in combination with other forms of treatment to weaken tumor defenses against the immune system and enable greater therapeutic impact. NOXXON's lead program NOX-A12 has delivered final top-line data from a Keytruda combination trial in metastatic colorectal and pancreatic cancer patients published at the ESMO conference in September 2020 and in July 2021 the company announced its Phase 2 study, OPTIMUS, to further evaluate safety and efficacy of NOX-A12 in combination with Merck's Keytruda and two different chemotherapy regimens as second-line therapy in patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer. NOXXON is also studying NOX-A12 in brain cancer in combination with radiotherapy which has been granted orphan drug status in the US and EU for the treatment of certain brain cancers. GLORIA, a trial of NOX-A12 in combination with radiotherapy in newly diagnosed brain cancer patients who will not benefit clinically from standard chemotherapy has delivered top-line data from all three dose-escalation cohorts showing consistent tumor reductions and objective tumor responses. Additionally, GLORIA has been expanded to assess the benefit of NOX-A12 with other treatment combinations, radiotherapy bevacizumab and radiotherapy pembrolizumab. The company's second clinical-stage asset NOX-E36 is a Phase 2 TME asset targeting the innate immune system. NOXXON plans to test NOX-E36 in patients with solid tumors. Further information can be found at: www.noxxon.com.

Keytruda is a registered trademark of Merck Sharp Dohme Corp.

Visit NOXXON on LinkedIn and Twitter.

About the GLORIA Study

GLORIA (NCT04121455) is NOXXON's dose-escalation, phase 1/2 study of NOX-A12 in combination with irradiation in first-line partially resected or unresected glioblastoma (brain cancer) patients with unmethylated MGMT promoter (resistant to standard chemotherapy). GLORIA further evaluates safety and efficacy of NOX-A12 three additional arms combining NOX-A12 with: A. radiotherapy in patients with complete tumor resection; B. radiotherapy and bevacizumab; and C. radiotherapy and pembrolizumab.

About the OPTIMUS Study

OPTIMUS (NCT04901741) is NOXXON's open-label two-arm phase 2 study of NOX-A12 combined with pembrolizumab and nanoliposomal irinotecan/5-FU/leucovorin or gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel in microsatellite-stable metastatic pancreatic cancer patients.

Disclaimer

Translations of any press release into languages other than English are intended solely as a convenience to the non-English-reading audience. The company has attempted to provide an accurate translation of the original text in English, but due to the nuances in translating into another language, slight differences may exist. Certain statements in this communication contain formulations or terms referring to the future or future developments, as well as negations of such formulations or terms, or similar terminology. These are described as forward-looking statements. In addition, all information in this communication regarding planned or future results of business segments, financial indicators, developments of the financial situation or other financial or statistical data contains such forward-looking statements. The company cautions prospective investors not to rely on such forward-looking statements as certain prognoses of actual future events and developments. The company is neither responsible nor liable for updating such information, which only represents the state of affairs on the day of publication.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220605005022/en/

Contacts:

For more information, please contact:

NOXXON Pharma N.V.

Aram Mangasarian, Ph.D.

Chief Executive Officer

Tel. +49 (0) 30 726247 0

amangasarian@noxxon.com

Investor and Media Relations:

LifeSci Advisors

Guillaume van Renterghem

Tel. +41 (0) 76 735 01 31

gvanrenterghem@lifesciadvisors.com

NewCap

Arthur Rouille

Tel. +33 (0) 1 44 71 00 15

arouille@newcap.fr
New teclistamab data presented at the 2022 ASCO Annual Meeting report longer follow-up from Phase 1/2 MajesTEC-1 study evaluating the BCMAxCD3 bispecific antibody, including progression-free survival and subgroup analyses1

Data from MajesTEC-1 study published in The New England Journal of Medicine2

The Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson Johnson announced updated efficacy and safety results from the teclistamab Phase 1/2 MajesTEC-1 study.1 Teclistamab is an investigational, off-the-shelf, T-cell redirecting bispecific antibody targeting B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA), which is being studied in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM).1 The data were featured as part of an oral session during the 2022 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting. Applications seeking approval of teclistamab are currently under health authority review in the United States (U.S.) and Europe.

The multicohort, open-label, Phase 1/2 MajesTEC-1 study is investigating the safety and efficacy of teclistamab in patients with RRMM who received at least three prior lines of therapy, including an immunomodulatory agent, a proteasome inhibitor and an anti-CD38 antibody.3 As of March 2022, 165 patients were treated with teclistamab at the recommended subcutaneous (SC) Phase 2 dose (RP2D) of 1.5 mg/kg preceded by step-up doses of 0.06 mg/kg and 0.3 mg/kg across both Phase 1 (NCT03145181) and Phase 2 (NCT04557098) of the study.1

Longer Follow-up from MajesTEC-1 Study in Patients with Triple Class Exposed Multiple Myeloma (Abstract #8007)

At a median follow-up of 14.1 months (range, 0.26-24.4), an overall response rate (ORR) of 63 percent (95 percent Confidence Interval [CI], range, 55.2-70.4) was observed in patients with triple class exposed multiple myeloma, with a complete response (CR) or better achieved in 39.4 percent of patients.1 Study participants had three or more prior lines of therapy, with a median of five prior lines, including a prior proteasome inhibitor, immunomodulatory drug and anti-CD38 antibody?.1 The majority of patients were triple-class refractory and/or refractory to their last line of treatment.1 Although response duration data are not mature, the median duration of response at this time is 18.4 months and has not been reached in patients who achieved a CR or better (95 percent CI, 14.9 not estimable).1 This suggests responses to teclistamab were durable and deepened over time.1 The medium progression-free survival (PFS) was 11.3 months (95 percent CI, 8.8-17.1).1 Adverse events (AEs) were low-grade for the most part and manageable with no new safety signals seen.1

These results from the MajesTEC-1 study were also simultaneously published online in The New England Journal of Medicine.2

"The longer term results from the MajesTEC-1 study suggest that patients are able to achieve deep and durable responses when treated with teclistamab," said Maria-Victoria Mateos, M.D., Ph.D., Consultant Physician in Haematology, University Hospital of Salamanca.* "These encouraging data reinforce the potential of teclistamab as a monotherapy for eligible patients with heavily pretreated multiple myeloma, in need of new treatment options."

No new safety signals were observed with longer follow-up.1 In 14.1 month follow-up data presented, the most common grade 3/4 haematologic AEs were neutropenia (64.2 percent); anaemia (37 percent); lymphopenia (32.7 percent) and thrombocytopenia (21.2 percent).1 Infections occurred in 76.4 percent of patients (44.8 percent grade 3/4).1 The most common nonhaematologic AE was cytokine release syndrome (CRS), all of which were grade 1/2 except for one transient grade 3 CRS (72.1 percent all grade).1 The median time to CRS onset was two days (range, 1-6) and median duration was two days (range, 1-9).1 There were five treatment-related deaths, and dose reductions and discontinuations due to AEs were infrequent.1

First Results from Cohort C of the MajesTEC-1 Study of Teclistamab in Patients with RRMM with Prior Exposure to BCMA Targeted Treatment (Abstract #8013)

Initial results were also presented from Cohort C of the MajesTEC-1 study evaluating teclistamab in the treatment of patients with RRMM who had previously been exposed to an anti-BCMA treatment.4 These patients had received a median of six prior lines of therapy, most (85 percent) were triple-class refractory and 35 percent were penta-drug refractory.4 The use of teclistamab following prior treatment with chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy and/or an antibody drug conjugate (ADC) (e.g., belantamab mafodotin) targeting BCMA resulted in a promising response rate in patients with heavily pretreated RRMM.4 At a median follow-up of 12.5 months (range, 0.7-14.4), the ORR was 52.5 percent (95 percent CI, 36.1-68.5) among 40 patients who received teclistamab in Cohort C.4 Responses to teclistamab occurred early and deepened over time, with comparable response rates in patients previously treated with an ADC and/or CAR-T.4

A tolerable side-effect profile was observed in patients previously treated with anti-BCMA treatment, with no dose reductions or discontinuations due to AEs.4 The safety profile for Cohort C was comparable with that observed in BCMA treatment-naive patients, with no new safety signals.4 In 12.5 month follow-up data, 26 patients (65 percent; 30 percent grade 3/4) had infections.4 The most common AEs (n=40) were CRS (65 percent any grade), with a median time to CRS onset and duration of two days (range, 2-6) and two days (range, 1-4) respectively.4 Cytopenias (grade 3/4) were noted as follows; neutropenia (62.5 percent); thrombocytopenia (30 percent); anaemia (35 percent); and lymphopenia (42.5 percent).4

"Patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma have limited treatment options and only 30 percent will be able to achieve a response using conventional therapies," said Edmond Chan MBChB M.D. (Res), EMEA Therapeutic Area Lead Haematology, Janssen-Cilag Limited. "While unmet needs remain, we continue to be dedicated to developing innovative treatment approaches that improve outcomes for people living with multiple myeloma, at all stages of the disease."

Initial Patient-Reported Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) Outcomes in Patients with RRMM Treated with Teclistamab (Abstract #8033)

Initial results from an analysis of patient-reported health-related quality of life (HRQoL) outcomes following treatment with teclistamab were also shared in a poster session.5 The study analysed patient-reported assessments of quality of life metrics among patients in the MajesTEC-1 trial who had received their first treatment dose by March 18, 2021.5 The metrics analysed include function (physical, role, emotional, cognitive, social); symptoms (fatigue, nausea/vomiting, pain, appetite loss, constipation, diarrhoea); and generic health (mobility, self-care, usual activities, pain/discomfort, anxiety/depression).5 Over 80 percent of the 110 patients included in the patient-reported outcomes (PRO) analysis noted meaningful improvement (percentages of patients with clinically meaningful change from baseline (EORTC QLQ-C30 scales: =10 points)) in at least one of the symptom scales.5 Reduction in pain scores occurred as early as cycle two.5 At the moment, no meaningful improvement was observed in the scales for physical functioning and fatigue.5 These initial PRO results complement recent clinical data and support teclistamab as a potential off-the-shelf, T-cell redirecting therapy for patients with RRMM.5

As of September 7, 2021, median duration of treatment was 5.7 months and median follow-up was 7.8 months.5 Global health? status scores significantly improved from baseline (95 percent CIs for least squares mean change did not cross 0) at cycles four, six, and eight; emotional functioning significantly improved at all time points.5 PRO assessments included European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 item (EORTC QLQ-C30).5 PROs were assessed on day one of each treatment cycle (28 days per cycle).5 Additional follow-up is needed to assess the full benefit of meaningful improvement in functional outcomes.5

"The updated data presented at ASCO support the ongoing evaluation of teclistamab for the treatment of relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma," said Yusri Elsayed, M.D., M.HSc., Ph.D., Vice President, Disease Area Leader, Hematologic Malignancies, Janssen Research Development, LLC. "These results underscore our ongoing commitment to address the unmet need for new therapeutic options and our effort to bring forward novel treatments for multiple myeloma patients in the near future."

ENDS#

About Teclistamab

Teclistamab is an investigational, fully humanised IgG4, T-cell redirecting, bispecific antibody targeting both BCMA and CD3, on T-cells.1 BCMA is expressed at high levels on multiple myeloma cells.6,7,8,9,10 Teclistamab redirects CD3-positive T-cells to BCMA-expressing myeloma cells to induce killing of tumor cells.11

Teclistamab is currently being evaluated in several monotherapy and combination studies.3,12,13,14,15 In 2020, the European Commission (EC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) each granted teclistamab Orphan Drug Designation for the treatment of multiple myeloma. In January 2021 and June 2021, teclistamab received a PRIority MEdicines (PRIME) designation by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and Breakthrough Therapy Designation (BTD) by the FDA, respectively. PRIME offers enhanced interaction and early dialogue to optimise drug development plans and speed up evaluation of cutting-edge, scientific advances that target a high unmet medical need.16 The U.S. FDA grants BTD to expedite the development and regulatory review of an investigational medicine that is intended to treat a serious or life-threatening condition and is based on preliminary clinical evidence that demonstrates the drug may have substantial improvement on at least one clinically significant endpoint over available therapy.17 In December 2021, Janssen submitted a Biologics License Application (BLA) to the FDA seeking approval of teclistamab for the treatment of patients with RRMM; a marketing authorisation application (MAA) was submitted to the EMA for teclistamab approval in January 2022.

About Multiple Myeloma

Multiple myeloma is an incurable blood cancer that affects a type of white blood cell called plasma cells, which are found in the bone marrow.18 In multiple myeloma, cancerous plasma cells change and grow out of control.18 In Europe, more than 50,900 people were diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2020, and more than 32,500 patients died.19 While some patients with multiple myeloma initially have no symptoms, most patients are diagnosed due to symptoms, which can include bone fracture or pain, low red blood cell counts, tiredness, high calcium levels or kidney failure.20

About the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson Johnson

At Janssen, we're creating a future where disease is a thing of the past. We're the Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson Johnson, working tirelessly to make that future a reality for patients everywhere by fighting sickness with science, improving access with ingenuity, and healing hopelessness with heart. We focus on areas of medicine where we can make the biggest difference: Cardiovascular, Metabolism, Retina; Immunology; Infectious Diseases Vaccines; Neuroscience; Oncology; and Pulmonary Hypertension.

Learn more at www.janssen.com/emea. Follow us at www.twitter.com/janssenEMEA for our latest news. Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Janssen-Cilag Limited and Janssen Research Development, LLC are part of the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson Johnson.

Maria-Victoria Mateos, M.D., Ph.D., has been a paid consultant to Janssen; she has not been paid for contributing to this press release.

Cautions Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 regarding development teclistamab. The reader is cautioned not to rely on these forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations of future events. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or known or unknown risks or uncertainties materialise, actual results could vary materially from the expectations and projections of Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Janssen-Cilag Limited and Janssen Research Development, LLC, and any of the other Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies, and/or Johnson Johnson. Risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: challenges and uncertainties inherent in product research and development, including the uncertainty of clinical success and of obtaining regulatory approvals; uncertainty of commercial success; manufacturing difficulties and delays; competition, including technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; challenges to patents; product efficacy or safety concerns resulting in product recalls or regulatory action; changes in behaviour and spending patterns of purchasers of health care products and services; changes to applicable laws and regulations, including global health care reforms; and trends toward health care cost containment. A further list and descriptions of these risks, uncertainties and other factors can be found in Johnson Johnson's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 2, 2022, including in the sections captioned "Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements" and "Item 1A. Risk Factors," and in Johnson Johnson's subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Copies of these filings are available online at www.sec.gov, www.jnj.com or on request from Johnson Johnson. None of the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies nor Johnson Johnson undertakes to update any forward-looking statement as a result of new information or future events or developments.

1 Nooka A et al. Teclistamab, a B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) x CD3 bispecific antibody, in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM): Updated efficacy and safety results from MajesTEC-1. 2022 ASCO Annual Meeting American Society of Clinical Oncology. June 2022.

2 Moreau P et al. Teclistamab, a BCMAxCD3 antibody, in triple class exposed multiple myeloma. The New England Journal of Medicine. June 2022.

3 ClinicalTrials.gov. A Study of Teclistamab, in Participants With Relapsed or Refractory Multiple Myeloma. Available at: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04557098. Last accessed: June 2022.

4 Touzeau C et al. Efficacy and safety of teclistamab (tec), a B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) x CD3 bispecific antibody, in patients (pts) with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) after exposure to other BCMA-targeted agents. 2022 ASCO Annual Meeting American Society of Clinical Oncology. June 2022.

5 Martin T et al. Health-related quality of life in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) treated with teclistamab, a B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) x CD3 bispecific antibody: patient-reported outcomes in MajesTEC-1. 2022 ASCO Annual Meeting American Society of Clinical Oncology. June 2022.

6 Labrijn AF, et al. Efficient generation of stable bispecific IgG1 by controlled Fab-arm exchange. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2013 Mar 26;110(13):5145-50.

7 Frerichs KA, et al. Preclinical Activity of JNJ-7957, a Novel BCMACD3 Bispecific Antibody for the Treatment of Multiple Myeloma, Is Potentiated by Daratumumab. Clin Cancer Res. 2020 May 1;26(9):2203-2215.

8 Cancer Research Institute. "Adoptive Cell Therapy: TIL, TCR, CAR T, AND NK CELL THERAPIES." Available at: https://www.cancerresearch.org/immunotherapy/treatment-types/adoptive-cell-therapy. Last accessed: June 2022.

9 Cho SF, et al. Targeting B Cell Maturation Antigen (BCMA) in Multiple Myeloma: Potential Uses of BCMA-Based Immunotherapy. Front Immunol. 2018 Aug 10;9:1821.

10 Benonisson H, et al. CD3-Bispecific Antibody Therapy Turns Solid Tumors into Inflammatory Sites but Does Not Install Protective Memory. Mol Cancer Ther. 2019 Feb;18(2):312-322.

11 Usmani SZ, et al. Teclistamab, a B-cell maturation antigen CD3 bispecific antibody, in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma (MajesTEC-1): a multicentre, open-label, single-arm, phase 1 study. Lancet. 2021 Aug 21;398(10301):665-674.

12 ClinicalTrials.gov. A Study of the Combination of Talquetamab and Teclistamab in Participants With Relapsed or Refractory Multiple Myeloma. Available at: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04586426. Last accessed: June 2022.

13 ClinicalTrials.gov. A Study of Subcutaneous Daratumumab Regimens in Combination With Bispecific T Cell Redirection Antibodies for the Treatment of Participants With Multiple Myeloma. Available at: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04108195. Last accessed: June 2022.

14 ClinicalTrials.gov. A Study of Teclistamab With Other Anticancer Therapies in Participants With Multiple Myeloma. Available at: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04722146. Last accessed: June 2022.

15 ClinicalTrials.gov. A Study of Teclistamab in Combination With Daratumumab Subcutaneously (SC) (TecDara) Versus Daratumumab SC, Pomalidomide, and Dexamethasone (DPd) or Daratumumab SC, Bortezomib, and Dexamethasone (DVd) in Participants With Relapsed or Refractory Multiple Myeloma (MajesTEC-3). Available at: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05083169. Last accessed: June 2022.

16 European Medicines Agency. PRIME Factsheet. Available at: https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/human-regulatory/research-development/prime-priority-medicines. Last accessed: June 2022.

17 The U.S. Food and Drug Administration. "Expedited Programs for Serious Conditions." Available at: https://www.fda.gov/downloads/Drugs/GuidanceComplianceRegulatoryInformation/Guidances/UCM358301.pdf. Last accessed: June 2022.

18 American Society of Clinical Oncology. Multiple myeloma: introduction. Available at: https://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/multiple-myeloma/introduction Last accessed: June 2022.

19 GLOBOCAN 2020. Cancer Today Population Factsheets: Europe Region. Available at: https://gco.iarc.fr/today/data/factsheets/populations/908-europe-fact-sheets.pdf. Last accessed: June 2022.

20 American Cancer Society. Multiple myeloma: early detection, diagnosis and staging. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/content/dam/CRC/PDF/Public/8740.00.pdf. Last accessed: June 2022.

CP-321579

June 2022

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220605005076/en/

Contacts:

Media Contact:

Jenni Mildon

Phone: +44 7920 418 552

Email: jmildon@its.jnj.com

Investor Relations:

Raychel Kruper

Phone: +1 732 524 6164

Email: rkruper@its.jnj.com
SYDNEY, June 05, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Visionary filmmaker Baz Luhrmann was joined by Hollywood heavyweights Tom Hanks, Austin Butler, and Olivia Dejonge on a star-studded red-carpet at Vivid Sydney tonight, for the Sydney Premiere of Elvis. Presented by Warner Bros. Pictures and Vivid Sydney, this is the first time in the festival's 12-year history a movie premiere has been included in the official program.

Luhrmann's first appearance at Vivid Sydney was earlier in the day, where he joined acclaimed journalist Marc Fennell for a thought-provoking talk, The Business of Baz, as part of Vivid Ideas' headline Global Storytellers series. The conversation covered the remarkable rise and rise of Baz's career, from his humble beginnings in small-town New South Wales (NSW), Australia to the dazzling heights of Hollywood, capturing audiences along the way with his signature style and powerfully storytelling.

Vivid Sydney, the annual festival of Light, Music and Ideas, will transform the Harbour City into an illuminating fusion of creativity and innovation until Saturday 18 June. Featuring more than 85 intriguing talks, workshops and immersive experiences, Vivid Ideas explores the forces shaping our society, starting conversations that continue long after the festival has ended.

Minister for Enterprise, Investment and Trade, Minister for Tourism and Sport and Minister for Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said the Sydney premiere of Elvis is another example of how Vivid Sydney is pushing the boundaries to deliver the biggest, brightest and best line-up ever.

"Vivid Sydney 2022 is off to a flying start with our largest opening weekend ever, seeing 435,000 people in Sydney's central business district enjoying all the festival and we're expecting a similar turnout this weekend," Mr Ayres said.

"This is another festival first, the first time a movie premiere is part of the official program. Vivid Sydney is constantly evolving and looking for fresh, new ways to engage audiences, while supporting the local events and creative industries. The Business of Baz and the Elvis premiere tickets have been snapped up, with more than 1,400 tickets sold. It's thrilling to see the theatre packed and the visitor economy humming."

Festival Director Gill Minervini added "Baz Luhrmann joins a powerful, thought-provoking Vivid Ideas line-up for 2022, as a Global Storyteller alongside Aaron Sorkin, Gretchen Carlson and Troye Sivan. Baz is a creative visionary with a body of work that embodies everything Vivid Ideas is about - celebrating those who push creative boundaries, tell stories that challenge the status quo and drive change for good. Both he and Catherine Martin personify Sydney style and creativity."

Baz Luhrmann said "I grew up in a very small town in regional NSW. When I was 15 years old I used to come to the city and watch movies, and now I am back in Sydney talking about movies. There's even one opening tonight - Elvis. It's home for me and I just feel so comfortable being here. It's so wonderful to be part of Vivid Sydney."

Appearing on the red carpet at the Sydney premiere of Elvis tonight at the State Theatre Sydney included Baz Luhrmann and the stars of Elvis including Tom Hanks, Austin Butler and Australian actress Olivia DeJonge, who stars as Priscilla Presley.

To book tickets for Vivid Sydney events and performances, and for more information on the program go to www.vividsydney.com. Get social using @vividsydney vividsydney.

Media Contact:

Wayne Mitcham, Destination NSW

E: wayne@amio.nz

P: +64 21 499 550

Related Images











Image 1: Baz Luhrmann, Olivia DeJonge, Austin Butler, and Tom Hanks





Premiere of Elvis at the State Theatre, Sydney, Australia. Photo credit: Destination NSW

















Image 2: Tom Hanks





Elvis Premiere at the State Theatre, Sydney Australia. Photo credit: Destination NSW

















Image 3: Austin Butler & Olivia DeJonge





Elvis Premiere at the State Theatre, Sydney, Australia. Photo credit: Destination NSW

















Image 4: Baz Luhrmann & Tom Hanks





Premiere of Elvis at the State Theatre, Sydney Australia. Photo credit: Destination NSW

















Image 5: Baz Luhrmann speaking at Vivid Sydney 2022 Ideas





Photo credit: Destination NSW









This content was issued through the press release distribution service at Newswire.com.

Attachment
Financial Services Commission (FSC) Vice Chairman Kim So-young attends a financial risk monitoring meeting on May 18 at the government complex in central Seoul. Yonhap



By Anna J. Park



The government plans to strengthen domestic regulations on financial companies' soundness requirements from early next month, aiming to proactively respond to growing external financial risks.



The financial authorities have not been applying an ultra-stringent approach on financial companies' soundness requirements since April 2020, in a move to provide necessary liquidity to households and businesses struggling during the pandemic.



However, the authorities have now decided it is time to tighten the reins again, as warning signs become louder and clearer that the Korean economy is facing threats.



"A typhoon, which includes economic crises, has entered our country's backyard," President Yoon Suk-yeol said last Friday, expressing the need for caution against unfavorable macroeconomic factors. He made the comments to reporters on his way to work in Yongsan District, Seoul.



Those words are in line with JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon, who issued a warning earlier this month at a financial conference held in New York.



"That hurricane is right out there down the road coming our way," Dimon said "We just don't know if it's a minor one or Superstorm Sandy. You better brace yourself," he continued, adding that JPMorgan Chase is preparing for a "non-benign environment."



As the U.S. Federal Reserve plans to reduce its $8.5 trillion balance sheet starting this month through quantitative tightening  the opposite of quantitative easing, aiming to shrink the money supply in the economy  local financial companies are in urgent need of bracing themselves for increased uncertainties in the global macro environment.



Against this backdrop, the financial authorities aim to make domestic financial companies prepare themselves with ample capital reserves in times of growing uncertainties. The authorities' move to strengthen regulations on financial soundness requirements on the part of companies is to be conducted from next month.



The Financial Services Commission (FSC), the country's top financial regulator, explained that the basic direction is a normalization of soundness requirements imposed on financial companies, which has been temporarily eased during the past two years due to the pandemic.



"As the temporarily-imposed lax measures are slated to be effective until the end of this month, it could be regarded, as of now, that the soundness requirements on financial companies would be normalized from next month," an FSC official told The Korea Times, Sunday.



As part of the move, the current 85 percent liquidity coverage ratio (LCR), the proportion of highly liquid assets to ensure a financial institution's ability to meet short-term obligations, imposed on banks during the past couple of years, will be gradually increased to the previous 100 percent from next month.



Other eased soundness requirements are also expected to be strengthened again from July.


Im just outside of ATL, ordered from Granger, it was about $1200 below d plan. I called 8 dealers around me, and none would do x plan. Flights are running about $200(x2), gas will be about $250, and $200 for a hotel. So Ill still be a little under x plan, and the truck will have 900 miles on it when I get home, and will be ready to tow.



There were so many positive experiences with Granger on here that I wasnt worried about some shenanigans when the truck came in, they made the order process super easy, just a few emails, and a docusign and a deposit.



plus it sounds like a fun road trip, and time to get to know the truck.
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Hundreds of people line up to apply for tourist visas at the Korean Consulate on June 1, Tokyo. Korea resumed issuing the travel visas from June 1 after suspensions due to the COVID-19 outbreak. AP-Yonhap



By Lee Hae-rin



Starting this month, the Korean government resumed issuing tourist visas for the first time in two years, but many Japanese visitors who want to travel to the neighboring country still face difficulties obtaining them, as evidenced by a long line formed by applicants in front of the Korean Embassy in Tokyo.



Some of them waited in line since the previous night to apply for visas.



The long wait is mainly due to a resurgence in travel demand, which pushed the embassy's capacity beyond its means to issue visas.



Korea and Japan had allowed no-visa entries into each other's country for short-term travelers staying for less than 90 days, but the system has been suspended since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.



As all Koreans who want to travel to Japan, or vice-versa, need to obtain visas, the embassy has been dealing with the visa issuance since last week.



The embassy has even assigned officials from other divisions to consular tasks to meet the enormous increase in demand for tourist visas, an official from the Korean embassy in Japan said.



Due to the time required for the administrative process, the embassy set a limit to the number of visa issuances. The consulate received 205 applications on the first day, but it was reduced to 150. Ten Korean consulates in Japan, including the one in Tokyo, have been receiving applications for tourist visas.



The consulate is considering an online reservation system to mitigate the inconveniences of waiting in line. However, the number of visa issuances cannot be changed due to administrative reasons.



Since over 10 million people traveled between the two countries during the year before the pandemic, the visa issuance capacity is not expected to meet Japanese travelers' demand to visit Korea.



The fundamental solution to meet the surge in travel demand and mitigate the inconvenience could be to operate the 90-day tourist visa waiver program again.



However, it is against the principles of reciprocity for Korea to take visa exemption measures for Japan, as the country has suspended the visa waiver program on individual foreign travelers.



Meanwhile, Japan will allow the entry of foreign nationals traveling in guided group tours from June 10, while still restricting individual international arrivals.


CINCINNATI, May 31, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Blue Water Vaccines Inc. (BWV or Blue Water Vaccines or the Company) a biopharmaceutical company developing transformational vaccines to address significant global health challenges, today announced the signing of an amendment to its existing Sponsored Research Agreement with The University of Oxford. Under this amendment, BWV will extend funding for research into its universal influenza vaccine candidate, BWV-101, for an additional 18 months.



Under the original agreement signed in December 2019, BWV agreed to fund research and development of its universal influenza vaccine at The University of Oxford for a period of three years, ending on December 19, 2022. The signing of this amendment, as well as additional funding provided by BWV, will enable Oxford to continue research and optimization of the Companys universal influenza vaccine candidate, BWV-101.

We are thrilled to continue our partnership with The University of Oxford, said Joseph Hernandez, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Blue Water Vaccines. In addition to the original work on H1 epitopes of limited variability, the team at Oxford recently found epitopes of limited variability for H3 and influenza B. This work brings us one step closer to a truly universal influenza vaccine, and we look forward to reaching that milestone with our partners at Oxford.

According to the World Health Organization, there are more than 1 billion influenza infections each year, 3  5 million of which are considered severe, leading to between 290,000  650,000 related respiratory deaths worldwide. Current influenza vaccines have several shortcomings, including yearly reformulations 6 months prior to influenza season leading to yearly administration and typically provide protection to only 50% of the individuals that receive the vaccine. Additionally, the CDC estimates about $87.1 billion USD is lost through absenteeism and healthcare costs in the US and the WHO estimates around $4 billion US is spent on the flu vaccine each year. Both the clinical toll of this disease and the economic burden it poses warrants investigation and commitment to the development of a universal influenza vaccine.

About The University of Oxford

Oxford University has been placed number 1 in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings for the sixth year running, and 2 in the QS World Rankings 2022. At the heart of this success is our ground-breaking research and innovation. Oxford is world-famous for research excellence and home to some of the most talented people from across the globe. Our work helps the lives of millions, solving real-world problems through a huge network of partnerships and collaborations. The breadth and interdisciplinary nature of our research sparks imaginative and inventive insights and solutions. Through its research commercialization arm, Oxford University Innovation, Oxford is the highest university patent filer in the UK and is ranked first in the UK for university spinouts, having created more than 200 new companies since 1988. Over a third of these companies have been created in the past three years. The university is a catalyst for prosperity in Oxfordshire and the United Kingdom, contributing 15.7 billion to the UK economy in 2018/19, and supports more than 28,000 full time jobs.

About Blue Water Vaccines

Blue Water Vaccines Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing transformational vaccines to address significant health challenges globally. Headquartered in Cincinnati, OH, the company holds the rights to proprietary technology developed at the University of Oxford, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center (CCHMC), and St. Jude Children's Hospital. The company is developing a universal flu vaccine that will provide protection from all virulent strains in addition to licensing a novel norovirus (NoV) S&P nanoparticle versatile virus-like particle (VLP) vaccine platform from CCHMC to develop vaccines for multiple infectious diseases, including norovirus/rotavirus and malaria, among others. Additionally, Blue Water Vaccines is developing a Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) vaccine candidate, designed to specifically prevent the highly infectious middle ear infections, known as Acute Otitis Media (AOM), in children. For more information, visit www.bluewatervaccines.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements may be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as anticipate, believe, forecast, estimate, expect, and intend, among others. These forward-looking statements are based on BWVs current expectations and actual results could differ materially. There are a number of factors that could cause actual events to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, risks related to the development of BWVs vaccine candidates, including, but not limited to BWV-301; the failure to obtain FDA clearances or approvals and noncompliance with FDA regulations; delays and uncertainties caused by the global COVID-19 pandemic; risks related to the timing and progress of clinical development of our product candidates; our need for additional financing; uncertainties of patent protection and litigation; uncertainties of government or third party payor reimbursement; limited research and development efforts and dependence upon third parties; and substantial competition. As with any vaccine under development, there are significant risks in the development, regulatory approval and commercialization of new products. BWV does not undertake an obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement. Investors should read the risk factors set forth in BWVs Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC) on March 31, 2022, and periodic reports filed with the SEC on or after the date thereof. All of BWVs forward-looking statements are expressly qualified by all such risk factors and other cautionary statements. The information set forth herein speaks only as of the date thereof.

Media Contact Information:

Media Relations

513-620-4101

Email: media@bluewatervaccines.com
NEW YORK, June 04, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Oscar Health, Inc. (Oscar or the Company) (NYSE: OSCR) and certain of its officers. The class action, filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, and docketed under 22-cv-04103, is on behalf of a class consisting of all persons and entities other than Defendants that purchased or otherwise acquired Oscar Class A common stock pursuant and/or traceable to the registration statement and prospectus (collectively, the Registration Statement) issued in connection with the Companys March 2021 initial public offering (IPO or the Offering). Plaintiff pursues claims against under the Securities Act of 1933 (the Securities Act).



If you are a shareholder who purchased or otherwise acquired Oscar Class A common stock, pursuant and/or traceable to the companys IPO, you have until July 11, 2022 to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com . To discuss this action, contact Robert S. Willoughby at newaction@pomlaw.com or 888.476.6529 (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 7980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased.

[Click here for information about joining the class action]



Oscar is a health insurance company that claims to be the first such company built around a full stack technology platform which will allow [Oscar] to continue to innovate like a technology company and not a traditional insurer.

On March 4, 2021, the Company filed its prospectus on Form 424B4 with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which forms part of the Registration Statement. In the IPO, the Company sold 36,391,946 shares of Class A common stock at a price of $39.00 per share. The Company received net proceeds of approximately $1.3 billion from the Offering. The proceeds from the IPO were purportedly to be used to repay in full outstanding borrowings, including fees and expenses, under Oscars Term Loan Facility ($167 million), and the remainder proceeds were to be used for general corporate purposes.

The complaint alleges that, the Registration Statement was materially false and misleading and omitted to state: (1) that Oscar was experiencing growing COVID-19 testing and treatment costs; (2) that Oscar was experiencing growing net COVID costs; (3) that Oscar would be negatively impacted by an unfavorable prior year Risk Adjustment Data Validation (RADV) result relating to 2019 and 2020; (4) that Oscar was on track to be negatively impacted by significant Special Enrollment Period (SEP) membership growth; and (5) that, as a result of the foregoing, Defendants positive statements about the Companys business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis.

On August 12, 2021, Oscar disclosed that the Companys Medical Loss Ratio (MLR) for the second quarter of 2021 was 82.4%, an increase of 2170 basis points year-over year. The Company claimed that [t]he MLR increased to 82.4% in 2Q21 from 60.7% in 2Q20, primarily driven by meaningfully lower utilization in 2Q20 as a result of COVID-19, as well as higher COVID-19 testing and treatment costs and a return to more normalized utilization in 2Q21. The Company also disclosed that its net loss for the quarter was $73.1 million, an increase of $32.1 million year-over-year.

On November 10, 2021, Oscar disclosed that its third quarter 2021 MLR increased 920 basis points year-over-year, to 99.7%. The Company claimed that the MLR increase was primarily driven by higher net COVID costs as compared to the net benefit in 3Q20, an unfavorable prior year Risk Adjustment Data Validation (RADV) result, and the impact of significant SEP membership growth. The Company also disclosed that its net loss for the quarter was $212.7 million, an increase of $133.6 million year-over-year.

During a conference call held the same day, Scott Blackley, the Companys Chief Financial Officer, stated: We recognized approximately $20 million of risk adjustment expense this quarter related to our risk adjustment data validation audit or RADV results. The RADV exercise is atypical this year due to COVID. It spans two years, 2019 and 2020. The majority of the RADV headwinds relate to the 2019 audit results, which were recently completed.

On this news, Oscars share price fell $4.05 per share, or 24.5%, to close at 12.47 per share on November 11, 2021.

By the commencement of this action, Oscar stock has traded as low as $5.47 per share, a nearly 86% decline from the $39.00 per share IPO price.

Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com
People watch a TV screen at a train station in Seoul, May 25, showing a news program reporting on North Korean missile launches, using file footage. North Korea launched three ballistic missiles toward the sea that day, hours after President Joe Biden wrapped up his trip to Asia where he reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to defend its allies in the face of the North's growing nuclear weapons threat. AP-Yonhap





North Korea fired eight short-range ballistic missiles (SRBMs) toward the East Sea, Sunday, a day after South Korea and the United States wrapped up a joint exercise near the peninsula involving a U.S. aircraft carrier, according to the South's military.







The Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said the launches were detected between 9:08 a.m. and 9:43 a.m. from areas around Sunan in Pyongyang; Kaechon, north of the capital city; the northwestern region of Tongchang-ri; and the eastern city of Hamhung.







The missiles flew around 110 to 670 kilometers at altitudes of between 25 and 90 km with speeds of from Mach 3 to 6, it added.







The intelligence authorities of South Korea and the U.S. are conducting an analysis for more details, it said.







An informed source said two missiles were shot from each site "sporadically," presumably from transporter erector launchers (TELs), the largest number of ballistic missiles the North has recently launched "on a single day and occasion."







"The North's continued launch of ballistic missiles are provocations which poses a significant threat to peace and security not only on the Korean Peninsula but also in the world," the JCS said in a statement.






English Chinese (Simplified)

-- Changxing manufacturing facility readiness and CMC activities impacted by COVID-19 outbreak in China - the facility is now expected to be ready for GMP inspections in Q3-2022 --

-- Regulatory submissions to the China NMPA, EMA, and the WHO for SCB-2019 (CpG 1018/Alum) are anticipated to be completed in the second half of 2022 --

-- Universal Booster Development: Phase 3 clinical trial evaluating SCB-2019 (CpG 1018/Alum) as a heterologous booster for CoronaVac and Comirnaty expected to initiate in June 2022 --

-- Credit agreement with China Merchants Bank has been approved for up to US$300 million to support commercial launch of SCB-2019 --

SHANGHAI, China, June 05, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Clover Biopharmaceuticals, Ltd. (Clover; HKEX: 02197), a global clinical-stage biotechnology company developing novel vaccines and biologic therapeutic candidates, today provided an update on 2022 corporate milestones.

The recent COVID-19 surge in China has heightened the need and urgency for increased vaccination and continued boosting with safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines. This surge has also caused temporary disruptions across the economy and supply chain and have impacted some of our ongoing activities. We have devoted extensive efforts to mitigate the impact including working closely with regulatory authorities and thus believe getting our COVID-19 vaccine candidate across the regulatory finish lines is in sight, said Joshua Liang, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of Clover. With Phase 3 heterologous booster data in individuals previously receiving 2- and 3-doses of inactivated vaccine expected in the second half of this year, we anticipate SCB-2019 (CpG 1018/Alum) will play a significant role in boosting protection against Omicron in the Chinese population when it will be greatly needed.

"At a global level, we are still experiencing a pandemic as new Omicron lineages emerge and the threat of new variants remains significant. These circumstances reinforce Clovers confidence in the role that our protein-based COVID-19 vaccines, utilizing the Trimer-Tag platform, can play in global efforts to fight against this virus now and throughout the transition to a long term endemic disease setting, said Dr. Nicholas Jackson, President of Global Research and Development of Clover. Given the growing evidence demonstrating that SCB-2019 induces strong booster responses against Omicron in previously-vaccinated and previously-infected individuals, combined with its favorable safety and reactogenicity profile and stability under standard refrigerated conditions, we believe that SCB-2019 (CpG 1018/Alum) will become an important universal COVID-19 booster in China and globally.

Clover underscores its commitment to completing regulatory submissions of SCB-2019 (CpG 1018/Alum) to the China NMPA, EMA and the WHO, while concurrently mobilizing and preparing manufacturing capabilities for global commercialization. Additionally, Clover is ensuring a long-term, comprehensive pipeline with the advancement of potentially broadly-protective COVID-19 research and development programs  SCB-2020S (a beta-variant and prototype chimeric vaccine candidate) and a bivalent Omicron and prototype COVID-19 vaccine candidate  which will provide further proof-of-concept for variant strain application utilizing the Trimer-Tag technology platform.

SCB-2019 (CpG 1018/Alum), COVID-19 Vaccine Candidate

Regulatory Submissions: Clover remains actively engaged with the China NMPA, the EMA, and the WHO regarding the data needed to support conditional approvals for SCB-2019 (CpG 1018/Alum).

Submission and Production Strategy : Based on the anticipated supply demands of SCB-2019 (CpG 1018/Alum) for the China market and in order to streamline supply of the vaccine to multiple markets simultaneously, Clover optimized its regulatory and manufacturing strategy for 2022. In 2022, Clovers Changxing facility will be focused on seeking product approval with the China NMPA and supplying vaccine for the China market. Clovers CDMO site  which has previously received EMA and WHO approvals  will be focused on seeking product approvals from the EMA and the WHO with the objective of supplying our vaccine for global markets, including for the COVAX facility. This plan has been communicated with and acknowledged by the relevant regulatory authorities.



Impact of COVID-19 Outbreak in China : COVID-19 outbreaks in Shanghai and other localities across China have resulted in strict containment measures. This situation has impacted certain day-to-day operations at Clover, including the delayed delivery of certain raw materials and equipment to our manufacturing facilities, the pause in specific testing services at contract laboratories, and restrictions on travel to our manufacturing facilities. Despite the logistical impact, the Clover team has worked through the situation, and significant progress has been made on completing improvements to the Changxing facility and the associated CMC activities. Clover now anticipates that the facility will be ready for GMP inspections in Q3-2022.



Guidance for Regulatory Submissions : The latest plans for our SCB-2019 rolling submissions and status of our Changxing and CDMO manufacturing facilities have been communicated with the regulatory authorities. Regulatory submissions are now anticipated for completion in the second half of 2022 for all three agencies, with product launch commencing thereafter upon receiving conditional approvals.



Universal COVID-19 Booster Vaccine Development: Clover plans to complete the development of its COVID-19 vaccine candidate as a universal COVID-19 booster vaccine in 2022, to potentially enable its use as a booster dose, regardless of the vaccine technology used for the primary vaccination or previous SARS-CoV-2 infection history. Initial universal booster data have demonstrated that SCB-2019 (CpG 1018/Alum) can induce a significant and broadly-neutralizing immune response against variants of concern (VoCs) including Omicron.

Heterologous Booster

Boosting CoronaVac  (SinoVac Inactivated Vaccine) and Comirnaty (Pfizer mRNA Vaccine) : Clover anticipates initiating a clinical trial in the Philippines in June 2022, to evaluate SCB-2019 (CpG 1018/Alum) as a booster for select COVID-19 vaccines including in individuals that previously received two doses of CoronaVac or two doses of Comirnaty. SCB-2019 (CpG 1018/Alum) administered as a heterologous booster will be compared head-to-head against homologous boosters of CoronaVac and Comirnaty, respectively. Initial results from this trial are expected in Q3-2022.

In this trial, Clover plans to initiate a subcohort evaluating SCB-2019 (CpG 1018/Alum) as a booster in individuals previously receiving three doses of CoronaVac, which is expected to begin enrolling in Q3-2022 with initial results expected in Q4-2022.

Separately, Clover recently received an update from investigators in an ongoing investigator-initiated study in Brazil evaluating SCB-2019 (CpG 1018/Alum) used as a booster in individuals previously receiving two doses of CoronaVac. Since the CoronaVac booster study group had met significant challenges with enrollment due to a preference for other licensed vaccines, the investigators and study funders have decided to terminate the study.

Homologous Booster

Boosting SCB-2019 (CpG 1018/Alum) : A homologous booster dose of SCB-2019 (CpG 1018/Alum) in individuals previously receiving two doses of SCB-2019 (CpG 1018/Alum) induced a robust and rapid neutralizing antibody immune response that exceed levels after the primary immunization series by approximately 5-fold. The safety and reactogenicity profile of the homologous booster dose was consistent with the primary immunization series. The study evaluated SCB-2019 (CpG 1018/Alum) in 3,755 participants in Brazil, the Philippines and Columbia. Additional data from this trial including Omicron neutralization results and a cohort boosted with a half-dose of SCB-2019 (CpG 1018/Alum) are expected to be available in the middle of the year.

: A homologous booster dose of SCB-2019 (CpG 1018/Alum) in individuals previously receiving two doses of SCB-2019 (CpG 1018/Alum) induced a robust and rapid neutralizing antibody immune response that exceed levels after the primary immunization series by approximately 5-fold. The safety and reactogenicity profile of the homologous booster dose was consistent with the primary immunization series. The study evaluated SCB-2019 (CpG 1018/Alum) in 3,755 participants in Brazil, the Philippines and Columbia.

Promising Next-Generation COVID-19 Vaccine Candidates

SCB-2020S (prototype and beta-variant chimeric vaccine candidate) : Clover initiated a Phase 1 clinical trial in South Africa evaluating SCB-2020S in May 2022. Preliminary results are expected in Q4-2022. The results will provide further proof-of-concept for variant strain change utilizing the Trimer-Tag technology platform and will also generate first-in-human data for CAS-1 (an in-house oil-in-water emulsion adjuvant).

: Clover initiated a Phase 1 clinical trial in South Africa evaluating SCB-2020S in May 2022. Preliminary results are expected in Q4-2022. The results will provide further proof-of-concept for variant strain change utilizing the Trimer-Tag technology platform and will also generate first-in-human data for CAS-1 (an in-house oil-in-water emulsion adjuvant). Bivalent Vaccine (prototype and omicron-variant combined formulation vaccine candidate) : Clover has nominated a bivalent candidate vaccine into its development portfolio based on promising preclinical data against VOCs. The manuscript Cross-Protection to VOCs by Bivalent S-Trimer COVID19 Vaccine is available for pre-print on bioRxiv and has been accepted by a peer-reviewed scientific journal.

Other Business Updates: After completing internal scientific, financial, and strategic assessments, Clover will prioritize resources on the development of COVID-19 assets and certain early-stage programs/platforms while limiting investments in non-COVID-19 mid/late-stage programs and new infrastructure. In navigating the current macroeconomic environment, Clover continues to prudently evaluate its expenses and explore opportunistic financing options to extend its cash runway.

Focused on Near-term Value Drivers : Regulatory submissions for SCB-2019 (CpG 1018/Alum) remains Clovers highest priority. Clover is also maximizing its impact on COVID-19 by completing universal booster development for SCB-2019 (CpG 1018/Alum) and advancing additional COVID-19 vaccine candidates including SCB-2020S and a bivalent COVID-19 vaccine candidate. SCB-219M will also advance into a Phase 1 in the near-term. Additional investments in SCB-313 (TRAIL-Trimer for oncology), SCB-808 and SCB-420 (Fc-Fusion protein programs) have been paused for the time being.

: Regulatory submissions for SCB-2019 (CpG 1018/Alum) remains Clovers highest priority. Clover is also maximizing its impact on COVID-19 by completing universal booster development for SCB-2019 (CpG 1018/Alum) and advancing additional COVID-19 vaccine candidates including SCB-2020S and a bivalent COVID-19 vaccine candidate. SCB-219M will also advance into a Phase 1 in the near-term. Additional investments in SCB-313 (TRAIL-Trimer for oncology), SCB-808 and SCB-420 (Fc-Fusion protein programs) have been paused for the time being. Up to US$300 Million Credit Agreement Approved : China Merchants Bank has approved a one-year credit agreement for up to US$300 million to support potential working capital needs during commercial launch. Drawdown on this agreement is subject to a review of Clovers business condition and changes in Clovers condition may result in early repayment. Additional terms including the repayment date and interest rate will be fixed at the time of drawdown approval.

About SCB-2019 (CpG 1018/Alum)

SCB-2019 (CpG 1018/Alum), our lead COVID-19 vaccine candidate, is anticipated to potentially be one of the first protein-based COVID-19 vaccines commercialized globally through the COVAX Facility. Employing the Trimer-Tag technology platform, Clover developed the SCB-2019 antigen, a stabilized trimeric form of the S-protein (referred to as S-Trimer) based on the original strain of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Clover created its COVID-19 vaccine candidate by combining SCB-2019 with Dynavaxs (Nasdaq: DVAX) CpG 1018 advanced adjuvant and aluminum hydroxide (alum).

About Clover Biopharmaceuticals

Clover Biopharmaceuticals is a global clinical-stage biotechnology company committed to developing novel vaccines and biologic therapeutic candidates. The Trimer-Tag technology platform is a product development platform for the creation of novel vaccines and biologic therapies. Clover leveraged the Trimer-Tag technology platform to become a COVID-19 vaccine developer and created SCB-2019 (CpG 1018/Alum) to address the COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2.

For more information, please visit Clovers website: www.cloverbiopharma.com and follow the company on LinkedIn.

Clover Forward-looking Statements

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements and information relating to us and our subsidiaries that are based on the beliefs of our management as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to our management. When used, the words "aim," "anticipate," "believe," "could," "estimate," "expect," "going forward," "intend," "may," "might," "ought to," "plan," "potential," "predict," "project," "seek," "should," "will," "would" and the negative of these words and other similar expressions, as they relate to us or our management, are intended to identify forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations and assumptions regarding our business, the economy and other future conditions. We give no assurance that these expectations and assumptions will prove to have been correct. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are participant to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict. Our results may differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements. They are neither statements of historical fact nor guarantees or assurances of future performance. We caution you therefore against placing undue reliance on any of these forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement made by us in this document speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. Participant to the requirements of applicable laws, rules and regulations, we undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. All forward-looking statements contained in this document are qualified by reference to this cautionary statement.

Clover Biopharmaceuticals:

Cindy Min

SVP, Public Affairs

media@cloverbiopharma.com

Naomi Eichenbaum

VP, Investor Relations

investors@cloverbiopharma.com
SYDNEY, June 05, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Visionary filmmaker Baz Luhrmann was joined by Hollywood heavyweights Tom Hanks, Austin Butler, and Olivia Dejonge on a star-studded red-carpet at Vivid Sydney tonight, for the Sydney Premiere of Elvis. Presented by Warner Bros. Pictures and Vivid Sydney, this is the first time in the festival's 12-year history a movie premiere has been included in the official program.

Luhrmann's first appearance at Vivid Sydney was earlier in the day, where he joined acclaimed journalist Marc Fennell for a thought-provoking talk, The Business of Baz, as part of Vivid Ideas' headline Global Storytellers series. The conversation covered the remarkable rise and rise of Baz's career, from his humble beginnings in small-town New South Wales (NSW), Australia to the dazzling heights of Hollywood, capturing audiences along the way with his signature style and powerfully storytelling.

Vivid Sydney, the annual festival of Light, Music and Ideas, will transform the Harbour City into an illuminating fusion of creativity and innovation until Saturday 18 June. Featuring more than 85 intriguing talks, workshops and immersive experiences, Vivid Ideas explores the forces shaping our society, starting conversations that continue long after the festival has ended.

Minister for Enterprise, Investment and Trade, Minister for Tourism and Sport and Minister for Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said the Sydney premiere of Elvis is another example of how Vivid Sydney is pushing the boundaries to deliver the biggest, brightest and best line-up ever.

"Vivid Sydney 2022 is off to a flying start with our largest opening weekend ever, seeing 435,000 people in Sydney's central business district enjoying all the festival and we're expecting a similar turnout this weekend," Mr Ayres said.

"This is another festival first, the first time a movie premiere is part of the official program. Vivid Sydney is constantly evolving and looking for fresh, new ways to engage audiences, while supporting the local events and creative industries. The Business of Baz and the Elvis premiere tickets have been snapped up, with more than 1,400 tickets sold. It's thrilling to see the theatre packed and the visitor economy humming."

Festival Director Gill Minervini added "Baz Luhrmann joins a powerful, thought-provoking Vivid Ideas line-up for 2022, as a Global Storyteller alongside Aaron Sorkin, Gretchen Carlson and Troye Sivan. Baz is a creative visionary with a body of work that embodies everything Vivid Ideas is about - celebrating those who push creative boundaries, tell stories that challenge the status quo and drive change for good. Both he and Catherine Martin personify Sydney style and creativity."

Baz Luhrmann said "I grew up in a very small town in regional NSW. When I was 15 years old I used to come to the city and watch movies, and now I am back in Sydney talking about movies. There's even one opening tonight - Elvis. It's home for me and I just feel so comfortable being here. It's so wonderful to be part of Vivid Sydney."

Appearing on the red carpet at the Sydney premiere of Elvis tonight at the State Theatre Sydney included Baz Luhrmann and the stars of Elvis including Tom Hanks, Austin Butler and Australian actress Olivia DeJonge, who stars as Priscilla Presley.

To book tickets for Vivid Sydney events and performances, and for more information on the program go to www.vividsydney.com. Get social using @vividsydney #vividsydney.

Media Contact:

Wayne Mitcham, Destination NSW

E: wayne@amio.nz

P: +64 21 499 550

Related Images











Image 1: Baz Luhrmann, Olivia DeJonge, Austin Butler, and Tom Hanks





Premiere of Elvis at the State Theatre, Sydney, Australia. Photo credit: Destination NSW

















Image 2: Tom Hanks





Elvis Premiere at the State Theatre, Sydney Australia. Photo credit: Destination NSW

















Image 3: Austin Butler & Olivia DeJonge





Elvis Premiere at the State Theatre, Sydney, Australia. Photo credit: Destination NSW

















Image 4: Baz Luhrmann & Tom Hanks





Premiere of Elvis at the State Theatre, Sydney Australia. Photo credit: Destination NSW

















Image 5: Baz Luhrmann speaking at Vivid Sydney 2022 Ideas





Photo credit: Destination NSW









This content was issued through the press release distribution service at Newswire.com.

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STOCKHOLM, Sweden, June 05, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Stockholm+50, convened by the United Nations General Assembly, took place in Stockholm, Sweden on June 2-3, 2022, under the theme of a healthy planet for the prosperity of all - our responsibility, our opportunity. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the 1972 UN Conference on the Human Environment in Stockholm, which was the first global meeting prioritizing environmental concerns.



The Federation of World Peace and Love (FOWPAL), Association of World Citizens (AWC), and Tai Ji Men Qigong Academy (Tai Ji Men) co-organized a number of bell ringing ceremonies in Stockholm, Sweden, as well as a hybrid event in association with Stockholm+50, on June1-3. A total of 11 influential leaders rang the Bell of World Peace and Love, including officials from the United Nations Environment Programme and environment ministers. The bell ringers and forum participants shared conscience-based solutions to foster environmentally responsible global citizens and accelerate ecosystem restoration. Through the ancient bell ringing ceremonies, the organizers aim to awaken people's conscience and inspire bell ringers to make and carry out their wishes for global peace and sustainability.

In light of the difficulties and crises the world faces, Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze, president of FOWPAL, delivered welcome remarks, emphasizing, When everyone follows the guidance of their conscience, the problems we encounter today can be resolved. As long as we stop acting in our own self-interest and instead consider the well-being of the entire Earth and all of humanity, we will be able to achieve a healthy, sustainable, and affluent planet. In the face of the daunting challenges, we must take immediate action. When we treat the disadvantaged and suffering people in the world as our brothers and sisters, we can expand the capacity of peoples hearts and broaden their horizons, making it possible to realize a peaceful and beautiful world where everyone follows their conscience and every individual and family is happy.

Prof. Rene Wadlow, president of the Association of World Citizens, stated, World Citizens stress conscience as a guide for creative action to develop a world society of shared values. Conscience provides an ethical basis for the whole structure of human rights. We strive to make the world a more humane dwelling place for ourselves and for future generations. We move toward a peaceful, just and ecologically-responsible future.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres delivered his remarks at the opening of Stockholm+50, emphasizing, The 17 Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement show the way. But we must act on these commitments. He also noted, We must place true value on the environment and go beyond Gross Domestic Product as a measure of human progress and well-being. Let us not forget that when we destroy a forest, we are creating GDP. When we overfish, we are creating GDP. GDP is not a way to measure richness in the present situation in the world. Throughout history, humanity has shown that we are capable of great things. But only when we work together. If we want to survive and thrive, let us protect and nurture our planet, that is our only home, he added.

Swedish Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson welcomed all participants at Stockholm+50 and emphasized, Climate action is one of my governments priorities in the years ahead. We will speed up this process. She also pointed out, Swedens message is plain and clear: Going green is not only possible, it is the path to create growth, jobs and prosperity for all. She concluded by saying, Let our work be guided by the words spoken at the 1972 Conference by the then Prime Minister, Olof Palme, There is no individual future, neither for human beings, nor for nations. Our future is common. We must share it together. We must shape it together.

More than 50 volunteers from FOWPAL, AWC, and Tai Ji Men flew to Stockholm from all over the world, bringing with them the Bell of World Peace and Love, hoping that the bell ringers wishes for peace would be spread through the sound of the bell, praying for the blessings of all life on Earth and ecosystem restoration.

A total of 11 visionary leaders rang the Bell, including, Dr. Kwaku Afriyie, Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation of Ghana; Dr. Maminata Traore/Coulibaly, Minister of Environment, Energy, Water and Sanitation of Burkina Faso; Harald Fries, Director and Deputy Head of Department of International Development Cooperation, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Sweden and Ambassador of Sweden to the Philippines (2010-2016); Amb. Nancy Karigithu, Principal Secretary and Special Envoy for Maritime and Blue Economy of Kenya; Eve Bazaiba Masudi, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for the Environment of Democratic Republic of Congo; Orlando Habet, Minister of Sustainable Development, Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management of Belize; Carlos Manuel Rodriguez, CEO and Chairperson of Global Environment Facility and former Minister of Environment and Energy of Costa Rica; Philda Kereng, Minister of Environment and Tourism of Botswana; Dr. Aldo Manos, former Director of UNEP; Donald Kaniaru, Director in the Division of Environmental Policy Implementation at UNEP; and Qaiser Nawab, Director of Business Development for the Middle East.

Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze, president of FOWPAL, presented to each of the bell ringers a Compass Clock of Conscience and An Anthology of Conscience by Dr. Hong. The Clock represents time, direction and goal, guides people toward the right path of life, and reminds them to seize every moment to apply conscience and do good deeds. The anthology is a collection of the excerpts on conscience from Dr. Hongs speeches presented on various occasions around the globe, which serves as a wellspring of wisdom for the recipients in the promotion of a culture of conscience.

Amb. Nancy Karigithu, Principal Secretary and Special Envoy for Maritime and Blue Economy of Kenya, rang the Bell and stated, When you talk of the conscience, the compass, it touches my heart. And I feel somebody new, somebody different. She expressed her desire to encourage Dr. Hong and the organizations led by him to continue spreading positivity because it is the way of the world and the future. When I was ringing the bell, I was thinking of my little five-year-old granddaughter and the kind of world I am living now and hope that it will be much better than we have now, and suddenly I feel uplifted."

Dr. Kwaku Afriyie, Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, rang the Bell on June 1 and wished for absolute peace amongst all people of the world. He stated that it is not by accident that he became the 400th ringer of the Bell: I believe that its by divine providence that Ive come here. Throughout my life, even though I am not perfect, these three words have always rung true in my life: conscience, morality, and ethics. I am so grateful. And Im so happy that I have participated in such a spiritually uplifting [event]." Spirituality is all-encompassing and binds us all together, stated Minister Afriyie, adding, Its good to discover that there are people of conscience in this world. Im so happy today. Thank you so much!

Dr. Aldo Manos, 89, is a former Director of UNEP and has been dedicated to environmental protection. He attended the June 3 forum, rang the Bell, and stated, "I know that peace is our most important objective, but we also know that it's the most difficult one, so this requires all our commitment, all our energy, and all our faith, and I am very humbled and honored to be invited here today in front of this very important symbol. The bell in all religions in the world is rung as a message to the world and to "somebody else" so that what we hope will be realized, and with the help of everybody, it will be realized." He emphasized, Conscience is the essence of environmental protection. As a veteran of the world's first Earth Summit 50 years ago, he is now invited back to Stockholm+50 and encourages young people to go beyond their dreams and return to Stockholm in 2072.

To date, 410 visionary leaders from 124 nations, including 43 heads of state and government, have rung the Bell and exerted their positive influences to contribute to global peace and sustainability! For instance, three bell ringers, President Fradique de Menezes of Sao Tome and Principe (2001-2011), President Abdoulaye Wade of Senegal (2000-2012), and President Leonel Fernandez of the Dominican Republic (1996-2000 and 2004-2012), rang the bell and made wishes for peace during their tenure and later mediated between neighboring countries to defuse potential wars, fulfilling their promises to help stabilize and sustain the Earth.

FOWPAL, AWC, and Tai Ji Men further fostered sustainability by inviting the participants to endorse various declarations of peace and conscience. Through the signing of the declarations, people show their commitment to environmental protection. Since 1999, the three organizations have visited 101 nations to promote the endorsement of various international declarations. To date, the Declarations for Human Rights of World Citizens and Peace have been endorsed by over 3.73 million people in 176 nations, and a CD with 2 million signatures was submitted to the UN in 2004; the Declaration for the Movement of An Era of Conscience and Declaration of International Day of Conscience have been endorsed by people in 195 nations. With the promotion of a culture of conscience, love, and peace, they hope that more conscientious volunteers will support the endorsement campaign and continue to promote the values expressed in the Declarations to help the world move towards a better future.

Youth volunteers from the three organizations presented uplifting songs and dance, including We Can Change the World, The Angel in Your Heart, and Happiness Is Everywhere, to encourage people to follow their conscience, regardless of race, age, work, or other factors, and take positive action to make the world a better, happier place.

Everyone is cordially invited to watch the forum online, which was filled with conscience-based positivity, and everyone is encouraged to invite their family and friends to watch the forum to inspire more world citizens to adopt conscience-driven actions and solutions to accelerate ecosystem restoration and sustain the Earth.

About the Federation of World Peace and Love (FOWPAL) : Established in 2000 in the United States by Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze, FOWPAL is an international love and peace organization, with members from around the world. It is guided by the principle that changing the world for the better starts with one good thought. Over the past two decades, FOWPAL, along with the Association of World Citizens (AWC) and Tai Ji Men Qigong Academy (Tai Ji Men), has promoted conscience, love, and peace globally and attended Earth Summits to promote SDGs. It had worked with various Permanent Missions to the United Nations through conferences, bell ringing ceremonies, and declaration signing, making the UNs adoption of the International Day of Conscience in July 2019 possible. They have held over 55 webinars in the past two years, fostering conscience-based sustainability.

Media Contact:

Lily Chen

Representative

info@fowpal.org

626-202-5268

www.fowpal.org

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/70aeb720-acd3-4644-a4b4-bf1a12b68368

The photo is also available at Newscom, www.newscom.com, and via AP PhotoExpress.




SAN FRANCISCO, June 05, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Candidate Dr. Vinson Eugene Allen is gaining popularity throughout the state and has built a solid foundation for the upcoming June 7th primary for California Insurance Commissioner. The candidate has been campaigning up and down the California Coast, spreading the message, "We're in this together." According to a recent Q & A with The San Diego Tribune, Dr. Allen has been positioned as one of the top three Democrats to enter the race and has raised over one million dollars. The Los Angeles Doctor has also received a public endorsement from the San Diego Voice & View Point.

Dr. Allen's advertising platform has taken off across the state, reaching voters from San Diego to Oakland, California. In Los Angeles, the Doctor has dominated advertising in the city with billboards, local Radio ads and Television, reminding voters to come out and vote. Many southern California residents have begun to show support with donations for Dr. Allen. The candidate has received support from the National Association of African American Insurance Agents and has received an endorsement from the (IAPAC) I Chinese American Political Action Committee. Support is growing daily for the candidate. Dr. Allen is known in Los Angeles for feeding families and taking charge in the community when there is a crisis.

Oakland Voters have shown support for the candidate. Dr. Allen has been making weekly visits to the Bay Area, diligently working to hear the unspoken and silent voices in those communities. Voters believe he represents change for the insurance industry while calling out the disparity evident in the auto insurance sector. His vision is to develop a workable solution to end increased insurance premiums within our elderly population, and to provide a viable solution to prevent insurance non-renewals and increased premiums within our urban wildlife interface. Dr. Allen recently gave an interview to the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce with Marisol Rubio, where he spoke in detail about his plans if he is elected as Insurance Commissioner. President George Holland of the NAACP of Oakland has also reached out to the candidate with support.

During a recent visit to San Francisco, Candidate Allen was introduced to Dr. Amos Brown, a historic leader known for many acts of bravery during the civil rights movement. Being impressed with his admiration for the residents of California, he invited Dr. Allen to San Francisco to attend a special Sunday service on June 5, 2022, to speak before his congregation. Allen has plans to meet with the San Francisco chapter of the NAACP and members of the Asian and Spanish communities to discuss bringing our communities together for a better California.

The candidate recently traveled to Sacramento, where he attended the State Congressional Committee meeting and spoke with insurance political action committees and agents to discuss his plans once in office. Dr. Allen was interviewed on the Sac Town Talk podcast by Jarhett Blonien, where he discussed why he has decided to run for California Insurance Commissioner. Candidate Allen has appeared on many podcasts, radio shows, and local television, including Hollywood Unlocked with Jason Lee and The Cut.

Dr. Allen is the founder of Dusk to Dawn Urgent Care facilities, located throughout Southern California. For 20 years, Dr. Eugene Allen and his wife, Dr. Connie Yu Allen, have centered their commitment to the communities of Los Angeles. Dr. Allen, Dr. Yu, and their children have served the Los Angeles community with turkey giveaways, toys, clothing, donations, and overall care to everyone in need of support. Dr. Allen is a friend, brother, and son to those who come into contact with the candidate.

###

Campaign Headquarters

Dr. Allen for California Insurance Commissioner

701 East 28th Street Suite 401

Long Beach, Ca 90806

Phone: (310) 386-6404

Election Website: www.electdrallen2022.com

Media Inquiries: Derrick Dzurko

Email: derrick@e1mgmedia.com

Phone: (888) 231-6942

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Kim Gunn, right, South Korea's top nuclear envoy, holds a meeting in Seoul with his American counterpart, Sung Kim, on North Korea's missile launches, Sunday, in this photo provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Yonhap





Top South Korean and U.S. nuclear envoys held an emergency meeting in Seoul, Sunday, hours after North Korea test-fired another salvo of ballistic missiles into the East Sea, according to the foreign ministry.







Kim Gunn, special representative for Korean Peninsula peace and security affairs, had discussions with his American counterpart, Sung Kim, on the issue in their second face-to-face meeting in two days.






The Samsung Galaxy S III was released in May 2012  ten years ago. The S-series has evolved significantly over the past decade and we wanted to try and quantify that evolution. Since there is a lot to cover, we thought we should keep it simple and focus on the camera today.

The third generation S-phone arrived with a single 8MP camera on its back and one 1.9MP selfie camera on the front. This was before the days of multi-camera setups, OIS and so on.

In fact, OIS wouldnt appear until 2015 and the Galaxy S6. Then in 2018 the Galaxy S9+ brought the first telephoto lens to the series, the Galaxy S10 5G from the following year added an ultra wide camera.



The best Samsung Galaxy S phones from 2012 to 2022

A quick note  the Galaxy S10+ also had an ultrawide camera, but were only looking at the best model of each generation. And in 2019 that was the S10 5G, which added 3D ToF sensors on the front and the back. That didnt last long and Samsung eventually went back to the computational approach to measuring the distance to objects. Another short-lived feature was the dual aperture  the Galaxy S9+ and S10 5G could switch between f/2.4 for day shots to f/1.5 at night.

These two are responsible for another short-lived trend, the iris scanner on the front. This was used for biometric authentication, but was dropped in the S10 generation as under-display fingerprint readers became available.

The following year the first Galaxy S phone with a periscope arrived (the likes of the Galaxy S4 zoom dont count  that wasnt a periscope style lens and, if were being honest, that was more camera than phone).

The Galaxy S20 Ultra had a periscope with 103mm focal length or 4x optical magnification. That was double what the previous tele lenses offered, but it created too wide a gap for the main sensor to fill with digital zoom. So with the Galaxy S21 Ultra forward, Samsung used both a standard telephoto lens (now at 3x) and a periscope.

There is a lot of data to cover, even for just the camera, so we put everything in a table to summarize the evolution of the Galaxy S series over the last ten years and we have included some charts to visualize the progress.
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The Oppo Reno8 trio is made mostly out of the same stuff, yet the three models received surprisingly different results in last weeks poll  one did quite well, one got no love and one was somewhere in between.

Of the three, the Oppo Reno8 Pro+ was most peoples favorite. That Dimensity 8100-Max is a big draw and the 10-bit 120Hz AMOLED display promises excellent image quality. But as one commenter says, chipset and display arent everything.

Despite having the custom MariSilicon X ISP on board, people were not impressed with the camera setup. The main 50MP camera lacks OIS, the 8MP ultra wide module is too low-resolution and theres no telephoto lens.



Oppo Reno8 Pro+  Oppo Reno8 Pro  Oppo Reno8

The Oppo Reno8 Pro has the exact same camera hardware (MariSilicon included), but wasnt as popular  how come? People are not sold on the Snapdragon 7 Gen 1. This is the first phone to feature Qualcomms new mid-range chip, so if the chip can prove the naysayers wrong, the Pro phone could rise in popularity.

Then theres the vanilla Oppo Reno8, which barely has any points on the board. The advantages over the Dimensity 1300 over the old 1200 are unclear and Oppo really skimped on hardware features here  even the basic 8MP ultra wide camera is missing. Considering the prices, the vanilla model faces stiff competition from competing brands (including the cousins from Realme and OnePlus).

As for the previous generation Reno7, that has fallen out of favor, which is good news for Oppo. These twice-a-year upgrade cycles sometimes lead to the awkward situation of the older model being more desirable. That is not the case with the Reno7 and 8 series.

Even so, the new trio has a lot to prove - as the poll shows, most voters were not convinced that this series has the right phone for them.

Open sales of the Oppo Reno8 Pro+ and Reno8 began in China earlier this week, the Reno8 Pro will be available starting next Saturday. Oppo has not announced an international release yet, but were keeping our ear to the ground.
Dragon boat festivities have returned in parts of China for the first time since the outbreak of the pandemic in late 2019 as restrictions are lifted along with a major drop in COVID-19 cases
Suits, blazers and ties. Thats what you might expect to see students wearing at a prestigious business program like The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. But thats not true, as Shelly Zhang found out after her first year at the Ivy League school in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

The 19-year-old economics major also realized how her previous high school experiences on island prepared her for the rigors of college.

I was very active in Close Up in high school. During the Youth Summit, my group took on the topic of Guam Budget and Economics to create more funding for public schools, Zhang said, referring to the federal program that brings students from around the country for civic education programs.

Im sure there were things lacking in our proposal, but the experience created a new interest for me in economics, she said.

Zhang did not only focus on business experiences while she was at John F. Kennedy High School. She helped plan school events such as a Zumba fundraiser for Guam Cancer Care and the Guardians of the Reefs cleanup projects because she believes social responsibility is important in the corporate field.

Driven to pursue a career in business after graduating from high school in 2021 as class valedictorian, the Tamuning resident knew that the business school in Pennsylvania was the perfect choice for her.

Safe spaces

During her first few weeks of college, Zhang had a hard time.

Guam is very warm and inviting, Zhang said. Everyone in Penn is friendly too, but theres not too much interaction with each other because everything is fastpaced.

But that didnt stop Zhang from breaking out of her comfort zone and reaching out to peers at her college.

I understood that because campus is so big, you dont have the ability to know everyone, Zhang said.

She joined Wharton Asia Exchange and Wharton Women to find undergraduates who share the same interests as her.

Both are pre-professional organizations that aim to prepare Wharton students by helping them develop professional skills. The former organization bridges the gap between Wharton and the Asian business community, while the latter focuses on helping women break into the financial industry.

I felt safe and comfortable joining these groups because they are my support system, Zhang said. In business, there are some things that we would normally be stigmatized to talk about. In these groups, I can speak up about those issues.

Speaking up isnt always easy, especially since Wharton students appear to subscribe to the work hard, play hard philosophy.

When that happens, you tend to internalize that everyone is doing well in school and in their careers, and that makes it hard, especially if you feel like youre the only one who seems to be struggling, Zhang said.

She found a solution in an app called Sidechat. The app provides students from across the University of Pennsylvania with a space where they can anonymously vent about their feelings and experiences.

The anonymous posts are very honest, Zhang said. Some content people would post include, Im struggling in this course, and others would respond with words of encouragement or advice.

The future

Throughout her first year, Zhang observed from successful students that doing well in academics at Wharton can only get them so far in their careers.

Some of the upperclassmen that Ive met really tried hard to network, aside from achieving high marks in their assessments, Zhang said.

So, she hopes to continue networking with other students and professionals at Wharton who inspire her in the field of economics, while also diversifying her activities during her sophomore year.

In the future, she plans to intern at corporations like McKinsey & Company, Bain & Company, and Goldman Sachs during her summers.

But for now, Zhang will enjoy her last summer vacation on Guam, watching the gorgeous tropical sunsets and spending time with family and old friends.
The health disparities program at the Department of Public Health and Services is forming new community partnerships to reach residents who have trouble accessing COVID-19 vaccinations, testing and other government services.

The program was designed to help people who have trouble getting health services because of transportation problems or lack of internet service.

Patrick Luces, coordinator for the health disparities program, said part of the community outreach involves participating five days a week in Operation Homebound.

The operation began as a joint effort between Guam National Guard medics and Public Health nurses to help homeless and low-income residents receive testing and vaccinations.

As of May 23, a total of 1,660 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine had been administered, 40 COVID-19 tests completed and 5,030 resident assessments were conducted at all 19 villages, according to data provided by Luces.

Other services

The program also connects residents to government services such as Medicaid and Section 8 housing. Just over 2,260 government service referrals have been provided to help underserved residents connect with, apply for and receive much-needed services.

Success of the program is due in part to the partnership with village mayors, the Division of Senior Citizens, Catholic Social Service, Manelu, the Guam Housing and Urban Renewal Authority, the Guam Homeless Coalition, Guma San Jose, and Liheng Sinafu.

The intent is to leverage our resources by working with these partners and going out to the different villages so we are targeting other at-risk populations, said Luces.

Health disparities program employees have joined the Todu Guam Foundation mobile clinic to reach low-income residents. They also target youth by attending events like the foundations free health fair at Ypao Beach Park in May.

Extension

The program has a staff of 30 and began in August 2021 through a $6.6 million grant from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which will fund the initiative for two years.

We are in the process of looking for an extension of the program for an additional 12 months, said Luces.

He said a goal is to train members of underserved populations, such as residents living in Guams Federated States of Micronesia communities, to become certified health care workers.

When the grant is finished, we will have built a capacity of health care workers throughout the island. We dont have a lot of community health care workers in our workforce, but this grant gives us an opportunity to gain more, said Luces.
Members of the NASA Ames Laboratory for Advanced Lensing, assisted by the Pacific Islands Climate Adaptation Center at the University of Guam, set up an unmanned aerial vehicle to map Guams reefs in this May 2019 photo. UOG students, through a NASA Guam Space Grant and NASA Guam EPSCoR, now have the opportunity to become certified drone pilots through the newly launched UOG Drone Corps.
People watch file footage on a TV news program reporting North Korea's latest missile launch, at Seoul Station, Sunday. North Korea test-fired eight ballistic missiles off to the East Sea, marking the 18th round of missile provocations this year alone. AP-Yonhap



North Korea fires 8 ballistic missiles after South Korea-U.S. naval drill



By Nam Hyun-woo



North Korea fired eight short-range ballistic missiles (SRBMs) into the East Sea, Sunday, in an apparent reaction to a joint naval drill between South Korea and the U.S. carried out in the Philippine Sea from Thursday until Saturday.



President Yoon Suk-yeol enters the presidential office to attend a National Security Council meeting after North Korea fired eight ballistic missiles into the East Sea, Sunday. Joint Press Corps

The launches mark the 18th missile provocation by North Korea this year and this is virtually the first time that the regime has fired eight ballistic missiles in a salvo. With officials saying that Pyongyang's nuclear test is imminent, Sunday's launches are ratcheting up tensions further on the Korean Peninsula, as the North showcases its capability to strike multiple targets at the same time.



According to South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS), the missiles were fired consecutively from 9:08 a.m. to 9:43 a.m. from four sites in the area of Sunan near the North's capital Pyongyang, South and North Pyongan Provinces and South Hamhung Province.



The JCS said the SRBMs flew a distance of 110 kilometers to 670 kilometers at altitudes ranging between 25 kilometers and 90 kilometers and at speeds of Mach 3 to 6. Although the JCS did not reveal more details of the missiles, sources said the launches are assumed to have involved the KN-23, KN-24 and KN-25.



Recently, the North has been concentrating on launching multiple missiles consecutively. On May 25, the regime fired one intercontinental ballistic missile and two SRBMs at the same time. Along with Sunday's launches, the North appears to be showing off its capability to avoid South Korean and U.S. missile defense systems.



Following the launch, President Yoon Suk-yeol convened a meeting of South Korea's National Security Council and concluded that the launches were "a serious challenge and test to the (South Korean) government's national security posture."



During the meeting, Yoon noted that the North has "staged provocations approximately every nine days this year alone" and ordered the military to "strengthen the Seoul-Washington extended deterrence, including missile defense exercises."



Extended deterrence refers to Washington's commitment to providing its nuclear capabilities to defend its allies.











South Korean Navy's Maritime Task Flotilla commander, Rear Adm. An Sang-min, right, shakes hands with U.S. Navy Carrier Strike Group 5 commander, Rear Adm. Michael Donnelly, on the USS Ronald Reagan during a joint Carrier Strike Group Exercise in the Philippine Sea on June 2. Courtesy of Joint Chiefs of Staff



Regional tensions mounting



Sunday's launch came a day after the JCS announced that South Korea and the U.S. had wrapped up a three-day Carrier Strike Group Exercise in the Philippine Sea, which involved the U.S. aircraft carrier, the USS Ronald Reagan.



It was their first joint naval drill involving a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier since November 2017 and came just 12 days after Yoon and his U.S. counterpart Joe Biden agreed on the extended deterrence needed to deter North Korea's escalating missile and nuclear threats.



Officials from Seoul and Washington are now assessing the possibility of the North conducting a nuclear test, which appears to be imminent.



During a trilateral meeting between the nuclear envoys from South Korea, the U.S. and Japan in Seoul, Friday, Sung Kim, Biden's special envoy for North Korea, said the U.S. assesses that the North is "preparing its Punggye-ri test site for what would be its seventh nuclear test" and Washington is "preparing for all contingencies."



Seoul's representative, Kim Gunn, responded by stating that North Korea's nuclear programs will "only end up strengthening our deterrence" and this will "ultimately run counter to Pyongyang's own interests."



Japan's Takehiro Funakoshi also called for stronger action at the United Nations, expressing regret over a recent veto by China and Russia of a draft resolution on sanctions against North Korea.



Funakoshi said that China and Russia were not joining efforts by South Korea, the U.S. and Japan to contain North Korea with stronger sanctions. Rather, they each launched naval drills to apparently counter the Seoul-Washington naval drill and the upcoming Rim of the Pacific Exercise (RIMPAC), which will start later this month.



According to the Russian news agency Tass, Russia's Pacific Fleet has started a week of naval drills which will last until June 10 and will involve more than 40 warships and 20 aircraft.





The USS Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier and other warships from the South Korean and U.S. navies train in formation during Carrier Strike Group Exercise 2022 in the Philippine Sea, June 4. Courtesy of Joint Chiefs of Staff
Solar panels from GoSolar Guam on the Cars Plus Guam building in Maite.
Tenant Warren San Nicolas, seated, receives a Pfizer booster shot, administered by Department of Public Health and Social Services nursing assistant Cyrene San Agustin during Operation Homebound at the Hemlani Apartments in Barrigada March 25, 2022. The health agency workers partnered with Guam National Guard members in conducting the medical outreach to offer COVID-19 vaccinations to homebound or at-risk residents living at the apartment complex.




Haiti - Culture : Residences Par Quatre Chemins 2022 call for candidacies





The Association par Quatre Chemins (A4C) offers innovative creators from all backgrounds a residency program in Haiti dedicated to artistic research. It is for artists to develop their creations in provincial towns.



Through this program, the association aims on the one hand to support artists from the very beginning of their creative ideas, and on the other hand to the decentralization of cultural activities confined to Port-au-Prince.



These residences are carried out in partnership with local cultural institutions which take advantage of the workshops led by the selected artists, intended for residents of the respective areas: art centers, performance halls, libraries, museums, art galleries, schools, asylums, prisons, etc... The disciplines concerned include the performing arts, the visual arts, the transdisciplinary arts, etc.



The end of the stay ends with a public restitution of the work carried out in the workshop by the artist with the local participants.



The length of stay is one month. The winners will be awarded a lump sum living allowance of the equivalent in Gourdes of 1,000 US dollars.



Eligibility Criteria:



Apply as an individual



Be a creator (male or female) in a living and/or visual arts discipline, or transdisciplinary, etc.



Have an artistic project related to an interior city of Haiti;



Proof of at least 3 years of professional practice;



Be released from your professional activity during your stay



No age limit.



Application file:

Artists must send their application files to the following email address: festivalquatrechemins@gmail.com



Applicants must submit a detailed application covering the following points:



A precise description of the project indicating the specific objectives of the stay in relation to a given city. The residency period desired by the artist must be indicated between August and October.



A short CV;



An artistic file (CD photos, audio, video, or documents by email)



The project and CV must be written in French and/or Creole.



Financing, support and terms:

The winner will receive 80% of their living allowance when leaving their residence. The balance will be paid to him upon return, upon receipt of the original receipts for the costs related to the residence, as well as a report of the stay which must be submitted within two months of the return.



Any reduction in the length of the stay will result in a deduction in proportion to the number of days actually spent on site.



Payments will only be made once the administrative procedures have been settled with the Association Quatre Chemins. The living allowance awarded to the winner is fixed and final. All costs and expenses incurred outside of this allowance remain the responsibility of the winner.



Important:

If, for personal or professional reasons, the winner cannot maintain their stay during the current year, it cannot in any case be postponed or split. Winners are required to pay for their transportation and insurance. They will be held responsible for any damage that may result from the execution of their program of stay.



It is accepted that the program may make changes if circumstances so require. In this case, the winners will be formally informed without prejudice to the objectives pursued.



Calendar:

June 30, 2022: closing of applications;

July 15, 2021: announcement of results;

August 2022: start of residencies;

November 2022: Programming of the work stages at the Quatre Chemins Festival.



Contact - Info:

Michael FORMILUS, programming assistant

michaelformilus@gmail.com /+509 4752 0400



HL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - News : Zapping...





Two police officers placed in solitary confinement

After hearing, the General Inspectorate of the National Police of Haiti (IGPNH) decided to place in isolation two police officers, Colas Jean Winder and Peter Forestin who would be involved in the death of a young man and another seriously injured in and in front of a club in Jeremie.



BSEIPH : Resignation of the Chief of Staff of Secretary of State Joseph

Me Joseph Jean Boucherau, the Chief of Staff of the Secretary of State for the Integration of Persons with Disabilities (BSEIPH) kidnapped on May 1st https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-36570-icihaiti-bseiph-2-people-kidnapped-and-2-vehicles-stolen.htmlthen released agaisnt ransom on May 13 https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-36672-haiti-news-zapping.html submitted his resignation on May 30 to Secretary of State Genard Joseph.



Closure of the Paris Consulate

The Consulate General of the Republic of Haiti in Paris informs the Haitian community that the doors of the Consulate General will be closed on the occasion of the feast of Pentecost, Monday, June 6, 2022.



6 candidates for the position of DG of PAHO, including a Haitian

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has published the list of 6 candidates running for the post of Director General, including the former Haitian Minister of Health, Dr. Florence Duperval Guillaume. Elections will be held in September by secret ballot.



Cerca-la-Source : Construction of a community library

As part of the promotion of reading, the Ambassador of Taiwan (Republic of China) in Haiti, Ku Wen-jiann and Mrs. Elimarthe Anger Beauzier Coordinator of the "PAINLO" program, signed a partnership agreement aimed at implementing the Cerca-la-Source community library construction project (Central Dept.)



The Ambassador of France visits Aristide University

In visit Thursday at the University of the Aristide Foundation and its future hospital site, the Ambassador of France in Haiti discussed with Mrs. Mildred Aristide and with her university team the avenues of collaboration between the Foundation and French cooperation.



HL/ HaitiLibre


















President Yoon Suk-yeol arrives at work at the presidential office in Seoul, Sunday. Yonhap



President Yoon Suk-yeol instructed officials Sunday to strengthen the extended deterrence and combined defense posture of South Korea and the United States in response to North Korea's latest demonstration of its firepower.



Yoon gave the order as members of the National Security Council briefed him on the results of a meeting they held shortly after North Korea fired eight short-range ballistic missiles toward the East Sea, according to the presidential office.



"President Yoon Suk-yeol ordered the readiness posture be firmly maintained at all times, and the continued strengthening of the South Korea-U.S. extended deterrence and combined defense posture, including missile defense exercises between South Korea and the United States," it said in a statement.



Yoon noted that North Korea has conducted missile provocations once every nine days on average this year alone.






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Lee Jun-seok, chairman of the ruling People Power Party / Yonhap





The ruling party chief, who is visiting Ukraine, has said the war-torn country is hoping for a large amount of medical and other assistance from South Korea in its ongoing war with Russia, according to the party Sunday.







Lee Jun-seok, head of the People Power Party, met with officials from local nongovernmental organizations in Ukraine's western city of Lviv, Saturday, and discussed ways to support refugees fleeing the war.







"They are hoping for a lot of assistance from South Korean society," Lee was quoted as saying. "In particular, they are asking for medical supplies and food that can be stored for a long period of time."







Lee is leading the party's delegation, which also includes Reps. Kim Hyung-dong, Park Seong-min, Jeong Dong-man, Tae Young-ho and Her Euna.







Before leaving for Ukraine, Friday, Lee met with Ukrainian Ambassador to South Korea Dmytro Ponomarenko in Seoul, and delivered the delegation's intent to learn the situation on the ground and report its findings to President Yoon Suk-yeol.







The delegation is expected to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during its stay, but relevant details remain unannounced for safety concerns. (Yonhap)






Edwards explains why he changed his mind on Medicaid expansion

N.C. Sen. Chuck Edwards

"Due to the promise from our federal government for billions more in Medicaid payments, it is now fiscally irresponsible for NC to not consider the benefits," he wrote in his weekly newsletter. "For the last six years, I've heard from constituents on both sides of this issue and until now I've resisted the deal Washington, D.C., has offered states to expand."

Last week, the Senate passed a bill expanding Medicaid by a lopsided 44-2 margin and sent it on to the House, where it faces an uncertain fate.

Here is Edwards's entire statement:

"The Affordable Care Act has caused healthcare prices to sky-rocket making them unaffordable to many. A recent healthcare study across all 50 states and the District of Columbia ranked North Carolina 47th overall for cost, access, and outcomes. With high prices, poor access, and inefficient outcomes, it has become very evident that the time to act is now.

"Since the beginning, Republican members of the General Assembly - including myself - have been opposed to Medicaid expansion because, unless enacted alongside additional reforms, Medicaid expansion is terrible federal policy. So I'm sure you're wondering, why now? The reality is: The Affordable Care Act is not going away. All legal and legislative attempts to overturn it have been exhausted. The federal government continues to offer up"sweeteners" to states that haven't expanded Medicaid under the ACA and, with an additional 5 percent federal cost-share for NC's traditional Medicaid enrollees upon expansion, it has become good state fiscal policy.

"What this means to our state is a $1.5 billion cash injection into our general fund. Then about $4.8 billion more in Medicaid payments made annually to our state, plus another $3.2 billion annually for our struggling rural hospitals, and about $45 million annually for local governments.

"Safeguards have been put in place in this bill. If the feds ever break their promise on the incentives, then NC will no longer participate. We've also added a work requirement for able-bodied participants to join the plan.

"In the past, North Carolina's existing Medicaid program has been broken and mismanaged. It has regularly burdened taxpayers with billion-dollar shortfalls, but fortunately, over the past decade and during my last six years with the General Assembly, my Republican colleagues and I have turned Medicaid around in North Carolina. We have had eight straight years of solid Medicaid budgets without cost overruns and completely reformed the system by implementing Medicaid Transformation last year.

"The new federal incentives coupled with North Carolina's strong financial management and completely reformed system have created the premier opportunity to expand Medicaid while addressing the supply-side issues wanted by Conservatives that have until now prevented further access to care and address the mental health crisis our citizens are facing.

"I voted YES on HB149 , our bill to expand access to healthcare. This bill creates the Healthcare Access and Stabilization Program. This program will serve as a lifeline to NC hospitals, especially our rural hospitals. The program will ensure that hospitals are funded, healthcare workers are paid, and both the economy and jobs are secured. The bill also targets outdated restrictions on Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN) and their full practice authority, saving taxpayer money and allowing registered nurses to supply medical care to the best of their abilities. We also included medical billing transparency that will protect patients from surprise medical bills.

"This bill expands access to health insurance while addressing regulations that prevent providers from practicing and removing barriers that drive up costs. Because of the expansion of Medicaid, our state budget will be stronger and the longevity of our rural hospitals will be better protected. Now is the time to make this change, before we are forced to do it in the future."
Honor Flight Network marks milestone

Eighteen years ago, more than 150,000 people gathered on the National Mall to dedicate the National World War II Memorial. Presidents, statesmen and historians paid tribute to the many veterans who had come to see the long overdue monument.

During the ceremony, my late husband, Bob Dole, a veteran of that war, described the memorial as not a memorial to war. Rather it is a tribute to the physical and moral courage that makes heroes out of farm and city boys, and inspires Americans in every generation to lay down their lives for people they will never meet, for ideals that make life itself worth living.

From the stage, Bob could see his fellow veterans, and said of them, Proud of their country, they let their tears flow freely.



Only 240,000 WWII veterans survive



Almost 59 years had passed between the end of the war and the dedication of the memorial. The pride and emotions felt by those who served had not diminished, but time had certainly taken its toll on the number of veterans able to see the grand monument built in their honor. Sixteen million Americans served during World War II. Today, an estimated 240,000 survive.

After completing the hard-fought campaign to build the memorial, there was great concern about how to enable more veterans to experience it for themselves. Considering that the World War II generation was scattered across the country and many struggled with health and mobility issues, there were no easy answers.



Fortunately, as has happened so many times throughout our nations history, ordinary Americans worked together to solve the problem in extraordinary fashion.

Two proud members of military families, Earl Morse and Jeff Miller, launched campaigns to get veterans to Washington. Morse recruited volunteer pilots. Miller coordinated chartered jets from his base in Hendersonville. Soon, patriotic individuals stepped up to cover the cost, and volunteers joined the journeys to help participants who might need an arm to lean on or someone to push their wheelchair.

Then, crowds appeared  at airports, memorials and along stretches of highway  to give the veterans a heros welcome.

This incredible grassroots effort  an example of our nation at its best  grew into the Honor Flight Network. Today, the network is made up of nearly 130 hubs throughout the country. Each hub is powered by local volunteers and homegrown fundraisers. Together, they bring more than 22,000 veterans to Washington, D.C., every year.



Flights have honored 250,000 veterans



In May, the Honor Flight Network marked the milestone of transporting 250,000 veterans, and the veterans on these trips have represented the broad diversity of those who have served.

Such an incredible achievement is certainly reason to celebrate. At the same time, the occasion should remind our nation that the mission to bring our veterans to Washington grows more urgent, as more than 230 World War II veterans are lost every day.



The opportunity to transport veterans of the Korean and Vietnam Wars is also precious, and Honor Flight has generously expanded its mission to serve these veterans as well.

The aging of our veterans, combined with dozens of trips canceled during the pandemic, has generated the longest waitlist in the organizations history  50,000 veterans.

This is a cause for our nation to rally around. While every American can offer their support through the Honor Flights national office, the local hubs are always looking for volunteers to recruit veterans, organize trips and cheer on the participants for a patriotic welcome home.



I witnessed the moving moments made possible by these trips when Bob and I would spend our Saturdays greeting veterans at the World War II Memorial.

They were often tearful, just as they were at the memorials dedication. Such emotion was obvious at the other memorials, as veterans ran their hands over familiar young faces etched into the Korean War Veterans Memorial and along the names of friends engraved on the memorial for the Vietnam War.

Our national memorials show our veterans that their sacrifices hold a permanent place in our countrys heart, and these heroes deserve to experience the full weight of our nations appreciation before it is too late.

* * * * *



Elizabeth Dole, a Salisbury, N.C., native, served as U.S. secretary of Transportation, U.S. secretary of Labor and U.S. senator from North Carolina. Mrs. Dole chaired the Honor Flight 250K Participant Commemoration Event in Washington, D.C., on May 3.
A FAMILY who fled Ukraine to escape the war have now settled in Sonning Common.

Olena Prokopenko, 45, and husband, Biktor, 44, and two of their children, Dmytro, 14, and Biktor, six, moved to the village in April.

They have another daughter, Alona, 19, who is staying in the Netherlands with her boyfriend and his brother.

The family were sponsored by Michael Harper, of Sedgewell Road.

Mr Prokopenko works for dress maker Diva Catwalk in Rotherfield Greys analysing fabrics.

His wife, who was a tax inspector in Ukraine, has been given a job at the Barn Cafe at the Herb Farm in Peppard Road.

I have a family and we need the money, she said. We are grateful we have been given a home but we must live and eat too.

Some people refuse a job theyre offered but were not in a position to do that anymore and a lot of refugees dont know English so its difficult to expect to get the same job they had in Ukraine.

I never washed dishes in Ukraine but you have to do it. But its a nice job and my colleagues are really good to work with.

The family lived in the capital Kyiv but moved out on February 24 when the Russian military invaded Ukraine.

They travelled to Mohyliv-Podilskyi on the border with Moldova where they stayed in a hotel until March 3 when they decided to leave for Romania.

The family were staying in a hostel in Romania when they were made aware of the sponsorship scheme to come to the UK.

They used the website host4ukraine.com to get in touch with Mr Harper and then spent a total of a month waiting for their British visas to arrive.

Once they had the paperwork, the family drove almost 1,300 miles from Romania to Sonning Common.

Mrs Prokopenko said she thinks the village is beautiful and the people have been welcoming and made her feel happy.

Caroline Cann, of Grove Road, who co-runs the cafe with Donna Galimore, gave Mrs Prokopenko a two-hour paid trial shift.

She then decided to employ her as she felt that she would be a good fit. Mrs Cann said: I would always want to take on someone who needs help as its a good thing to do and Im pleased that weve been able to do that.

Olena is brilliant and when employers take Ukrainian workers on, they will get massive benefits because theyll get a really hard worker.

Anyone who takes somebody on like Olena will be very happy.

We would have found a job for her anyway and would have

re-organised the shifts or something to get her in.

Mrs Canns husband Michael, a Sonning Common parish councillor, told a council meeting last month that he believed the council should do more to help Ukrainian refugees to find work.

Biktor attends Sonning Common Primary School and despite not having very good English, he is learning more every day.

His brother Dmytro, who had a private English teacher in Ukraine, goes to Maiden Erlegh Chiltern Edge School.

Both boys have made friends at their schools and enjoy the way English schools are run.

Mrs Prokopenko said: Theres less homework here and there are fun things like going to the swimming pool or going to the forest.

In Ukraine we have too much homework and difficult subjects all the time.

They also get a choice of what to eat in the cafeteria but in Ukrainian schools you dont get a choice  you must eat what you get.

Dmytro has chosen his GCSE subjects for year 10, which he will start in September. He will take computing, design technology, geography and history.

Alona now wants to come and join her family in Sonning Common and Mr Harper has said she would be welcome.

She currently does online classes at the National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy, studying IT programming.

She won an award before starting university for being one of the 100 most intelligent students in Kyiv and was awarded a grant by the Ukrainian government.

She earned first place in Ukrainian language and second place in the maths category.

Mrs Prokopenko wants to stay in Sonning Common after the war ends as members of her family who are still there are struggling.

She said: Firstly, you cant find jobs now. Prices have gotten so bad, petrol is hard to find and salary is low  its very difficult.

She said England was also the best place for her children because of the high level of education and the level of English they will achieve.

Mr Harper, who has lived in Sonning Common for 30 years, said that having the family at home with him was going really well.
North Korea condemned for weapons program



North Korea has continued to escalate tensions on the Korean Peninsula by conducting another missile test. On Sunday, the North fired eight short-range ballistic missiles (SRBMs) toward the East Sea. The launch was the North's 18th military provocation this year and the third since President Yoon Suk-yeol took office May 10.



We cannot but express grave concerns about the North's repeated show of force which was in violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions which ban Pyongyang from nuclear and ballistic missile tests. The saber-rattling came a day after South Korea and the U.S. wrapped a three-day joint exercise in international waters off Okinawa as part of their stepped-up efforts to better respond to the North's continued provocations.



During the naval exercise, the two allies mobilized the USS Ronald Reagan, a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, to send a strong warning against the recalcitrant North. It followed the North's May 25 launch of a suspected new type of intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) and two short-range ballistic missiles right after U.S. President Joe Biden's visit to South Korea and Japan.



During their summit on May 21, Yoon and Biden agreed to strengthen extended deterrence, deploy strategic assets and expand combined military exercises to cope with the North's ceaseless provocative acts and weapons development. Regrettably, however, the Kim Jong-un regime has continued to defy repeated calls from the allies and the international community to stop further provocations and return to dialogue. More worrisome is that the North is reportedly ready to conduct a seventh nuclear test at any time.



North Korea invited severe condemnation Thursday for continuing its nuclear and missile development program when it assumed the rotating presidency of the Geneva-based U.N. Conference on Disarmament. Australian Ambassador Amanda Gorely read a joint statement by 48 countries and the European Union that called the North's nuclear and missile program a violation of the UNSC resolutions. However, North Korean Ambassador Han Tae-song ignored the call, arguing that his country remains committed to contributing to global peace and disarmament. It is nonsense for the North to take over as head of the U.N. conference although the role rotates alphabetically among the 65 member countries. The North should realize that its chairmanship will only undermine the credibility of the U.N.



The Kim regime should not try to take advantage of a new Cold War confrontation between the U.S.-led Western democracies and the grouping of China and Russia following Putin's war in Ukraine. The U.N. Security Council failed to push for additional sanctions against the North due to a veto by China and Russia. Yet the failure cannot and should not be seen as carte blanche for the North to build up its nuclear arsenal.



We urge Pyongyang to focus on keeping in check the spread of COVID-19 to ensure North Koreans' health and improve their living standard by reviving the state's moribund economy. Nuclear weapons cannot guarantee its survival. The leadership there will only deepen its international isolation and may cause its self-destruction. The Kim regime should return to dialogue immediately to find a peaceful solution to the nuclear showdown.




By Robert Neff





A visage of the past  Gyeongju, the ancient capital of Silla. Postcard, circa 1920s. Courtesy of Diane Nars Collection

In the late 19th century, books written in English about Korean history were often more amusing than informative because they were filled with inaccuracies, folktales, myths and deliberate deceptions. Horace N. Allen, an early American missionary doctor and later the American representative to Korea, was fond of amusing foreign readers on the peninsula  as well as those abroad  with his tales of Korea's past.



One of his more interesting tales was published in 1896 and immediately grabs the reader's attention:



"In former times it was believed that a son born of the 5th [day] of the 5th moon must be killed, otherwise he would overthrow the dynasty, if of royal birth, or ruin his father, if of ordinary parentage."



Allen claimed that the last king of Silla had "a son born on that unfortunate date and fearing lest his dynasty might be overthrown by him, he tossed the new-born babe out" into an adjoining courtyard to be devoured by the dogs. But his sinister act was thwarted by the kindness of one of the king's female slaves who rescued the baby and secretly raised it.



Although Allen did not name the king or the child, it is easy to deduce his tale was about Gung Ye. It isn't clear who Gung Ye's father was  either King Heonan (r. 857-1861) or King Gyeongmun (r. 861-875)  but his unnamed mother was one of the king's beautiful concubines. The mother clearly loved her son  despite his inauspicious birthdate and his physical features  but the father viewed him as a threat and was determined to do away with him.



According to Homer Hulbert, another 19th century narrator of Korean history, Gung Ye "had several teeth when he was born which made his arrival the less welcome." The king commanded that the child be thrown from a window but before this could be accomplished, a court woman (Hulbert describes her as a nurse) rescued the infant and smuggled it away to a place of safety. Unfortunately, as she was carrying the child, "she accidently put out one of its eyes." Another version claims that Gung Ye's mother, knowing that the soldiers were ordered to kill her baby, threw it out the window to her maid who was hiding nearby  as in the previous version, the maid accidentally damaged the baby's left eye causing it to be lost.





Boldeok-gul Hermitage in the Geumgang Mountains. Postcard, circa 1920s. Robert Neff Collection



For about 10 years, the woman (slave, nurse, or maid) raised Gung Ye  presumably as her own  until her death. The boy, now an orphan, sought shelter at Sedalsa, a Buddhist temple in the mountainous region of the East Coast. Here he adopted the name Sun-jeong and lived and studied as a monk for several years.



It was at about the age of 17 when Sun-jeong realized that "he was by nature ill-fitted for the monastic life" and joined a band of bandits (or rebels  depending on the source) in Gangwon province.



According to Allen's narrative, Gung Ye "devoted himself to fighting and warlike pursuits generally. When fully grown he led a band of his rough followers to the capital at [Chuncheon] and defeated the king, his father, whom he caused to be put to death. The son was enthroned and ruled vigorously but very harshly."



Allen's description of Gung Ye's rule is rather anemic  only that "he oppressed the people without mercy so that they diligently plotted his overthrow." However, his supernatural account of the monarch's fall is fascinating and, of course, rather unbelievable  just the type of tale Allen loved to write about.



Apparently, the chief advisors, fearing the people would revolt, "begged the king, for his own good as well as the best interest of the country" to make reforms but Gung Ye dismissed their fears:



"'My dynasty is permanent,' said the king haughtily. 'Worms, like the people, may eat the heart of the oak and destroy it but my reign is like that of the solid rock. The people can no more harm my dynasty than worms can eat solid rock. When the rocks are worm-eaten then I will think of changing my conduct.'"





The wilderness of the Geumgang Mountains. Postcard, circa 1920s. Robert Neff Collection



The gods heard his challenge and answered. In the middle of the night a "rumbling, grinding sound" was heard coming from the mountain and one of the court officials noticed "countless worms grinding their way into the stones." He promptly reported this to the king. In the morning, the king went to the site and saw with his own eyes that the stones "were all porous and worm-eaten" but he refused to change.



He dismissed the phenomenon and insisted that he would only be impressed if encountered horses with horns. Once again his challenge was accepted. "That night a male gave birth to a colt with horns."



The frightened king fled his palace  "leaving no one to inherit his throne  intent on finding safety in the Wonsan region. However, "as he crossed the mountain and saw all the stones worm-eaten, he became so afraid that he committed suicide at the Sam Pang Pass (Three Valley Pass) where he was buried by the people, who erected a little temple by the roadside in front of his grave." Allen insisted that his grave could still "be seen by all travelers."



Allen's tale was just that  a tale. There are other historical accounts of Gung Ye but determining their veracity is no easy matter. Gung Ye raised an army and, through the military prowess of his trusted general (Wang Geon), conquered a large swath of the Korean peninsula. In 901, according to Hulbert, Gung Ye proclaimed himself king of Goryeo "and emphasized it by slashing with a sword the picture of the king of Silla which hung in a monastery."



Ruling from Songak (modern Gaeseong  North Korea), Gung Ye's armies continued to enjoy victories on the battlefield adding more territory to his domain and further weakening Silla. In 905, he renamed his kingdom Majin and moved the capital to Cheorwon in Gangwon Province. It was about this time that he rediscovered his religious faith.



"He proclaimed himself a Buddha, called himself [Maitreya Buddha], made both his sons Buddhists, dressed as a high priest and went nowhere without censers. He pretended to teach the tenets of Buddhism. He printed a book, and put a monk to death because he did not accept it as canonical."





The tomb of Gongmin, the 31st ruler of Goryeo (r. 1351-1374), in Gaeseong. Postcard, circa 1910s. Robert Neff Collection
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As the old saying goes, One persons trash is another persons treasure. But in this case, to be more specific, its another persons renewable energy.

The Houston company Archaea Energy is teaming with Republic Services, one of the nations biggest waste management firms, to reclaim methane produced by landfills and refine it to fuel power plants, homes and vehicles. In addition to matching the quality of natural gas produced from wells, landfill methane, known as renewable natural gas, or RNG, has the advantage of emitting lower levels of greenhouse gases and meeting federal and state standards as a low-carbon fuel.

The companies plan to develop 39 RNG projects across 19 state, representing the nations single largest development of renewable natural gas. Five projects are slated for Texas: one in the Houston area, one in Beaumont, two in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and one in Amarillo.

We're really excited about this, Tim Oudman, Republics vice president of environmental services, said in an interview. No one else has done something like this.

Under the joint venture, Archaea Energy will develop, engineer, build and operate the RNG processing plants located at landfills owned by Republic Services. Construction is slated to begin later this year, with completion and commissioning of the plants scheduled through 2027.

The 39 projects are expected to generate approximately 12.5 million MMBtu, (million British thermal units) of RNG annually  equivalent to the average annual natural gas usage of nearly 200,000 U.S. residential customers.

Nick Stork, CEO of Archaea Energy, said the joint venture represents a good fit for both companies. Republic, based in Phoenix, was seeking a partner with the capabilities to develop more than three-dozen RNG processing plants and maintain consistency across the projects in both efficiency and sustainability.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Renewable energy firm Archaea Energy moves headquarters to Houston, plans hip office in the Heights

Archaea, meanwhile, specializes in a standardized approach to designing and building RNG facilities, which is expected to lower costs.

The two companies signed a five-year agreement to create a joint venture valued at $1.1 billion. Under the terms of the deal, Archaea Energy will invest approximately $800 million, and own 60 percent of the joint venture, and Republic will contribute about $300 million and own 40 percent.

RNG primer

RNG, also known as biomethane, is produced from wastewater, food waste and livestock waste such as manure. But the major source of RNG comes from landfills, according to an economic analysis by the Coalition for Renewable Natural Gas, a trade group that advocates for RNG in North America.

As solid waste breaks down in landfills, it emits gas  primarily the potent greenhouse gas methane  into the atmosphere. But the gas, which otherwise would contribute to global warming, can be captured through various technologies and refined into biomethane by removing carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide and other unwanted gases.

The resulting RNG is interchangeable with natural gas from wells and can be injected into the natural gas distribution system.

By mid-2021, 176 RNG facilities were operating and 220 were under construction or planned, the Coalition for Renewable Natural Gas found. North American RNG production reached 87.3 billion cubic feet last year, but still represents a tiny fraction of the U.S. natural gas market, which consumes about 100 billion cubic feet of gas per day.

Fast-growing Archaea

Stork, Archaeas CEO, said he first got into the RNG business as a landfill owner in Pittsburgh. I started in this industry as a garbage man, owning landfills and trash trucks, he said.

With his landfill partner, Richard Walton, Stork decided to build an RNG plant. When he and Walton, now Archaeas president, realized they could build the project themselves at less than half the cost estimated by contractors, they formed Archaea Energy in 2018. (The company is named for single-celled organisms that produce methane gas as a byproduct of decomposition.)

Last September, Rice Acquisition Corp., a special purpose acquisition company or SPAC led by former executives of Pittsburgh-based EQT, the largest U.S. natural gas producer, combined Archaea Energy and a long-established renewable energy company, Aria Energy, to form the new Archaea Energy, with headquarters in Houston.

On HoustonChronicle.com: The growing dilemma of oil refiners: Move to biofuels or stick with what they know?

The Rice team, which had previously invested in Archaea, sought to combine Archaeas RNG expertise and technology with Arias larger base of operating assets to create an RNG producer of a sufficient size to be able to expand into the market for new RNG projects. As a result of the merger with Aria, Archaeas revenues jumped by more than 10 times to $73.7 million in 2021. The company has about 100 employees in Greater Houston and 400 employees nationwide.

Archaea operates 19 landfill gas-to-electric projects, that use largely unprocessed landfill gas to produce power on-site, as well as 12 projects that refine landfill gas into pipeline quality RNG. In addition to its RNG joint venture with Republic, Archaea recently announced the acquisition of another 14 North American landfill gas-to-electric projects through a merger with NextGen Power Holdings of Calgary.

Archaea markets its RNG production based on fixed-price, long-term contracts targeting customers seeking stable, dependable supplies of lower-carbon natural gas to help them meet their climate goals. Customers include the University of California system, and FortisBC, British Columbias largest utility.

Our customers that are using renewable natural gas today like the benefits of natural gas, but also want to decarbonize, Stork said.

Transportation

Republic Services has traditionally focused its RNG marketing on the transportation sector, where the biomethane can be converted to compressed natural gas (CNG) or liquified natural gas (LNG) to power fleets of trucks, said Oudman. Republic runs about 20 percent of its own vehicles on CNG, he said.

The joint venture, because of its ambition, is expected to grab the attention of transportation fuel markets, which view RNG as a cheaper way cut carbons emissions standards than alternatives, such as switching to electric vehicles. Proponents of RNG, such as the Coalition for Renewable Natural Gas, say it could provide a small piece of the puzzle when it comes to moving the country to a lower-carbon energy future.

RNG provides about two-thirds of the fuel for natural-gas powered vehicles, according to David Cox, founder and chief financial officer of Coalition for Renewable Natural Gas. Companies pay a premium for RNG because of its environmental benefits, which help them meet regulations and climate goals.

More: Read the latest oil and gas news from HoustonChronicle.com

RNG is projected to cost $7 to $20 per million British thermal units, according to 2019 study by the American Gas Foundation, an industry-financed research group. In comparison, spot prices for conventional natural gas are forecast to average $5.72 per million British thermal units by 2040, up from an average of $3.94 this year, according to the Energy Department.

But given the growing demand for cleaner sources of energy, the industrys future looks bright despite the fuels higher costs, said Stork, Archaeas CEO.

We actually think that there's a supply-demand imbalance. There's more demand than there is potential supply of renewable natural gas, he said. There are only so many landfills and so many cows in North America, but there's growing demand.
Buc-ees co-founder Arch Beaver Aplin III is donating $50 million to Texas A&M University to create a learning center featuring a new hospitality entrepreneurship program, the university announced.

The new facility will be named the Aplin Center and will be an immersive learning laboratory where students can study hospitality, retail studies and food product development, the university said in a news release. Degree programs will include viticulture, coffee, food science and fermentation processes.

The $50 million donation is one of the largest Texas A&M has ever received from a single donor, the university said in the news release.

BUC-EE'S: The best snack foods to eat here, both pre-packaged snacks and made-to order food

This is an awesome gift and will position Texas A&M to become the top hospitality program in the nation, Texas A&M University System Chancellor John Sharp said in a statement.

The new learning center will include product development laboratories, food tasting centers and outdoor and indoor student recreational spaces. It was also feature retail and food service areas that will be managed by students as part of their educational programs, the news release says.

The Aplin Center will also focus on workforce training. It will host corporate training and recruiting programs, as well as other professional development opportunities, the news release says.

Aplin said in a statement that hes proud to be involved in the creation of what is designed to be a world-class hospitality entrepreneurship program.

PROJECT BUC-EE'S: Taxpayers may subsidize a Buc-ees plan to make a Texas store the largest in the world

We want to create a learning, gathering space on the A&M campus that exemplifies hospitality, Aplin said in a statement. A place where people come together. A place where the Aggie culture can thrive  a happy place.

Aplin graduated from Texas A&M in 1980 with a degree in construction management and co-founded the first Buc-ees two years later in Lake Jackson. The iconic chain, which has become known for its clean bathrooms, now has more than 40 gas stations and travel centers in Texas, Alabama, Kentucky, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida and has plans to expand to five more states.

Aplin has received several awards from his alma mater and often returns to campus to speak to students.

Texas A&M President Dr. M. Katherine Banks said in a statement that Aplin is a true visionary and one of the most creative entrepreneurs shes ever known.

He remains connected to his university, speaking to many students who share his passion for business and product development, Banks said. Through this generous gift, he is creating a living, learning laboratory that will provide transformational opportunities for our students. The Aplin Center will positively impact Aggies for generations to come.

The Aplin Center will be built on Wellborn Road, across the street from the Texas A&M Hotel and Conference Center and near Kyle Field, the news release says.

Its primary academic partners will the be the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and the Mays Business School.
Smoke rises after Russian missile strikes in Kyiv, Ukraine, June 5. AP-Yonhap



Reinforced Russian troops backed by airstrikes pummeled a portion of eastern Ukraine on Saturday, blowing up bridges and shelling apartment buildings as they fought to capture two cities that would put a contested province under Moscow's control, Ukrainian officials said.



Russian and Ukrainian forces battled street-by-street in Sievierodonetsk and neighboring Lysychansk, regional governor Serhiy Haidai said. Russian strikes killed four people, including a mother and child, in the nearby village of Hirske, Haidai said.



The cities are the last major areas of Luhansk province still held by Ukraine. The Russian attacks are central to the Kremlin's reduced wartime goal of seizing the entire Donbas region, where Moscow-backed separatists have fought Ukrainian forces for eight years and established self-proclaimed republics.



Russia also escalated attacks in Donestk, the other province that makes up the Donbas, the Ukrainian military said, as the war reached its 101st day. Reflecting the close combat, Russian and Ukrainian military officers blamed each other for a fire that destroyed the main church at the Sviatohirsk monastery, one of Ukraine's holiest Orthodox Christian sites.



In a video address Saturday, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Russia of "deliberately destroying the Ukrainian culture and its historic legacy along with social infrastructure and housing  everything needed for normal living."



In recent days Russian forces have focused on capturing Sievierodonetsk, which had a prewar population of about 100,000. At one point they held 90% of the city, but Ukrainian soldiers clawed back some ground, Haidai reported Friday. Zelenskyy described the city's situation as "extremely difficult" on Saturday.



Western military analysts said Russia was devoting significant troop strength and firepower to what British officials called a "creeping advance" in the Donbas.



"The combined use of air and artillery strikes has been a key factor in Russia's recent tactical successes in the region," the U.K. Ministry of Defense said in a Saturday assessment. The ministry warned that after launching so many guided missiles, Russia was employing unguided missiles that have "almost certainly caused substantial collateral damage and civilian casualties."



The Ukrainian military reported that it repulsed nine attacks in the Donbas over 24 hours. The claim could not be independently verified.









While Russian forces are concentrated on the Donbas in the east, Ukraine has staged counterattacks to try to regain territory in the south.



After seizing most of the Kherson and Dnipropetrovsk regions, as well as the port city of Mariupol, Moscow has installed local administrators, offered residents Russian passports and taken other steps to consolidate its hold on occupied areas.



Russian shelling killed at least three civilians in the Black Sea port city of Mykolaiv, Mayor Oleksandr Senkevich said Saturday.



The Institute for the Study of War, a Washington-based think tank, said Russian-installed officials and troops face growing resistance among the local population and "an increase in partisan activity in southern Ukraine."



The institute cited accounts on Russian Telegram channels of threats against locals who received Russian passports.



The Ukrainian Center for National Resistance, which established a website to advise people on sabotage and other techniques, said Kherson residents were encouraged to burn down a Russian passport center.



The Ukrainian military noted with approval the trouble that occupation authorities were encountering, saying Russian-installed leaders in Kherson were wearing bulletproof vests and traveling in armored vehicles.





A man crosses a street as smoke rises in the background after Russian missile strikes in Kyiv, Ukraine, June 5, 2022. AP-Yonhap
UVALDE  Police officers from across Texas are out in force in Uvalde, providing a conspicuous law enforcement presence at funerals for the 19 children and two teachers killed in the massacre at Robb Elementary School.

Out-of-town officers began to converge on the city after the May 24 shooting. Although they say theyre here to support Uvalde police, the exact nature of their role is unclear.

UVALDE STRONG: Heartbreaking photos show growing memorials taking over Uvalde

Police departments with a visible presence in Uvalde include Fort Worth, Lubbock, Del Rio, Allen, Conroe, Pearland, Grand Prairie, College Station and Bedford. Many of those departments do not appear to be operating here under any formal agreement with the city of Uvalde.

The outside officers have been especially visible at funerals for victims of the massacre. Reporters have been barred from attending the services and have been limited to designated viewing areas. Although the number of journalists in town has dwindled, interactions with police have become tense.

Officers have threatened to arrest journalists for walking on public streets near funerals. Police also have been seen mingling with motorcycle club members, who have interfered with journalists efforts to observe and photograph funerals by physically surrounding them and obstructing their view, even in designated media areas.

TRAGEDY IN UVALDE: Remembering the lives lost in Uvalde

Josie Norris, San Antonio Express-News / Staff photographer Josie Norris, San Antonio Express-News / Staff photographer Law enforcement officers from around the state talk outside during the funeral for Jacklyn Jalyen Cazares at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Uvalde. (Josie Norris, San Antonio Express-News) Law enforcement officers from around the state talk outside during the funeral for Jacklyn Jalyen Cazares at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Uvalde. (Josie Norris, San Antonio Express-News)

Outside Hillcrest Memorial Cemetery, where two of the slain children were interred on Friday, two police officers from Bedford, in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, appeared to direct mourners away from two Hearst Newspapers reporters.

This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate 2 1 of 2 Josie Norris, San Antonio Express-News / Staff photographer Show More Show Less 2 of 2 Josie Norris, San Antonio Express-News / Staff photographer Show More Show Less



The officers at one point urged mourners to walk faster so they could avoid the journalists, who were standing where police had directed them to wait.

Bedford police did not respond to a request for comment.

On Thursday, a uniformed Lubbock police officer watched as bikers from a group called Guardians of the Children surrounded a Hearst Newspapers reporter who was walking in a public street near a funeral. The confrontation was captured on a video posted to Twitter.

A spokesman for the Lubbock Police Department, Antonio Leal, said the officer was acting in his official capacity providing traffic direction for a funeral procession in Uvalde.

Our officers, including the one depicted in the video, are operating under the direction of the command center located in Uvalde and not in coordination with any other organizations, Leal said.

He added: The Lubbock Police Department believes strongly in the First Amendment protections provided to the media and citizen journalists alike to cover and share news from any incident, whether in our jurisdiction or not.

In Del Rio, Lt. Hubert Smith said his department has had a pair of two-officer teams in Uvalde since the shooting. The teams  a detective and a patrol officer  have been providing security and responding to calls for police assistance, among other assignments, he said.

On HoustonChronicle.com: A reconstruction of how the Uvalde massacre unfolded

Asked if controlling the media was part of their mission, Smith replied, I havent heard anything about the media, keeping the media away.

Told of the incident in which bikers surrounded the reporter, Smith said, That is something we will not tolerate.

Were trying to help out with what they need, but as far as my understanding, were not engaging as far as blacking out the press or anything like that. I hope not, Smith said.

Lt. Chris Daniels, a spokesman for the Fort Worth Police Department, said 12 of its officers volunteered to go to Uvalde, some 350 miles away, after the Texas Police Chiefs Association issued a statewide appeal for assistance for Uvalde.

Josie Norris, San Antonio Express-News / Staff photographer

The department has been rotating those officers in and out of Uvalde in groups of five to six. Fort Worth is paying their salaries and a per diem while theyre there.

The officers are working in Uvalde without a formal memorandum of understanding, Daniels said.

Our approach has been to ensure a supervisor is part of each team who is responsible for ensuring that any operation involving the FWPD is in compliance with our policy, he said. Among other duties, the officers provided support during President Joe Bidens visit to Uvalde on Sunday.

Daniels said that we have no agreement whatsoever with any biker group, nor have they been deputized.

It is not clear when the Fort Worth police officers will go back home. Daniels said the department is evaluating our position every few days. He added, Uvalde and the local agencies are encouraging all other agencies to stay as long as possible, since the funerals will be going on for some time.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Uvalde shooting leaves a father to grieve the loss of his 10-year-old child from inside a prison

Asked to describe the officers mission, Daniels said it was to provide public safety for the Uvalde community and security for the families of the victims for funeral services, as well as security for the local officials.

There is no directive to control the media, but only to ensure safety and privacy for the families as they grieve their losses, he said.

The Fort Worth officers and other visiting law enforcement personnel are staying at the Alto Frio Baptist Camp and Conference Center in Leakey, 40 miles north of Uvalde.

Alto Frio says it is hosting 150 to 200 Texas Rangers, county sheriffs deputies and other law enforcement officers. On its website, the center encourages donations to help cover the cost of caring for these officers and support staff.

Among the out-of-town officers are four from Lubbock, 375 miles away.

Leal, the police department spokesman, said the officers are expected to return home on Monday.

They receive assignments from a command center in Uvalde, but follow policies established by their department, Leal said. Lubbock is paying their salaries and a per diem. The city of Uvalde is footing the bill for food and lodging.

The Allen Police Department, in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, said on its Facebook page May 27 that it was sending six officers and two dispatchers to Uvalde to assist in any way they can.

ARREDONDO: Why was the head of a six-person force for Uvalde CISD in charge of the mass shooting response?

Marked patrol vehicles from the College Station Police Department have been observed fulfilling a very specific role: standing sentry outside the home of Pedro Pete Arredondo, chief of police for the Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District.

College Station police Lt. Rodney Sigler said the department sent four officers and a supervisor to Uvalde for several days after authorities there asked for help due to the magnitude of the incident. He said they were given assignments by local authorities.

Arredondo was the on-scene incident commander during the mass shooting at Robb Elementary, and he has been widely condemned for holding back the assembled police officers for more than an hour while 18-year-old gunman Salvador Ramos, armed with an assault-style rifle, was holed up in a pair of adjoining classrooms filled with children and two teachers.

Josie Norris, San Antonio Express-News / Staff photographer

State officials say Arredondo decided that after Ramos fired an initial heavy fusillade, the crisis shifted from an active-shooter situation to a barricaded subject situation, that children were no longer in danger and that there was time to await the arrival of more officers with specialized equipment.

UVALDE RESPONSE: 5 things to know about embattled Uvalde CISD Police Chief Pete Arredondo

That was the wrong decision, period, Col. Steven McCraw, director of the Texas Department of Public Safety, said at a news briefing last week. Theres no excuse for that. From what we know, we believe there should have been an entry as soon as you can.

Ultimately, a Border Patrol tactical unit stormed the classroom and killed Ramos.

Arredondo has made no public comment on his handling of the incident.

julian.gill@chron.com
Regarding Solomon: Reactions to protests by Gabe Kapler, Colin Kaepernick not so surprisingly different, (May 31): I take great umbrage at your support of ex-quarterback Colin Kaepernick taking a highly public knee during the singing of the national anthem and the display of our countrys flag. Regardless of his personal motives, the national anthem and display of the flag are for one, and only one, reason: to honor those million plus men and women who gave their lives for this country. There are many other, and more proper, venues and means to publicly vent ones feelings. To me, a veteran, kneeling during the national anthem and display of the flag is similar to pissing on a public street instead of in a public bathroom.

Kaepernick made a poor decision that has only inspired more people to disrespect our flag. In my opinion, he is helping to accelerate the moral decline of our country, a subject that also raises my blood pressure. At least San Francisco Giants manager, Gabe Kapler had the good sense to remain in the clubhouse during the anthem as a way to express his frustration with the lack of action in Uvalde.

Bob Leilich, The Woodlands

Uvalde 21

Regarding Opinion: This Memorial Day, reflect on who we laid to rest in the name of freedom, (May 29): Richard Harris of Wichita, Kan., in his letter to the Chronicle, expressed my sentiments regarding this Memorial Day.

The slaughtered teachers and schoolchildren of Uvalde were sacrificed to preserve our freedoms and there are fresh graves for those whose lives were surrendered...

I sincerely felt (and still feel) that they deserved to be honored this Memorial Day.

So, I went to the elementary school where my wife is a teacher and our daughter was a student and placed a humble homage to the two teachers and 19 children who were massacred in the name of freedom.

May they rest in peace.

Pradeep Anand, Sugar Land

NRA

Regarding Essay: Im a Texan from a gun-owning family who went to the NRA convention. Heres why Im furious. (May 28): My time in America started in 1978 and I have lived in several different states from Rhode Island to California and have experienced many cultural differences.

One of the things that is the same from state to state is the lack of appreciation for educators. School funding, pay levels and accountability are all sadly lacking. But what about arming them? I think about my own teachers and those I have interacted with over the years and there are many who are responsible enough to have a firearm, however there are very few who, I believe, would be accepting of the title bodyguard as part of their daily duties.

Besides the issue is not who do we arm to protect our children, it is how we control who gets these weapons of mass destruction.

Enter the NRA, this is an organization that defends the Second Amendment and rightfully so. But why can they not see that they should be the leaders in controlling who has guns and what kind of guns are available. The right to bear arms does not mean you should have access to military grade weapons. Especially at 18, when you have not proven your willingness to fight for your country.

I do not believe that any one group or person has all the answers to this issue, but I am fairly sure that the NRA would receive a lot more positive input if they worked with the political and legal systems to help the current Wild West environment that we live in.

Karl Blench, Pearland
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After the mass shooting at a Texas elementary school, schools around the country pledged to boost security measures and increased the presence of law enforcement on campus  partly to reassure parents and students.

But police inside schools can make some students more uneasy, not less. Especially for Black students and other students of color, their personal experiences with policing can leave them feeling unsafe and alienated from school when they see officers on campus.

High school senior Malika Mobley has seen three different school resource officers patrolling the campus in Raleigh, North Carolina. Once on the way home from school, Mobley saw officers detain a visibly distraught classmate and push the student into the back of a police vehicle.

THE LIVES LOST: Remembering the victims of the horrific Uvalde school shooting

They were crying, Why are you doing this to me? I didnt do anything,' said Mobley, co-president of Wake County Black Student Coalition. I was just forced to stand there and couldn't do anything.

Since 2020, the student group has advocated for eliminating police officers from school buildings in favor of investing in counselors and support staff for students.

We dont see police presence as part of the solution, Mobley said. If you really think about why police dont make us safer, you can draw connections to all types of tragedies that impact the most marginalized among us.

Police officers have a regular presence at schools across the country in recent decades, often in the form of school resource officers, who are tasked with building relationships with young people to promote trust of law enforcement, providing security, and enforcing laws. Critics say having armed police on campus often results in Black students being disproportionately arrested and punished, leading to what they call the school-to-prison pipeline.

NEWSLETTERS Join the conversation with HouWeAre We want to foster conversation and highlight the intersection of race, identity and culture in one of America's most diverse cities. Sign up for the HouWeAre newsletter here.

Black students feel less safe

Researchers have found that Black students report feeling less safe around police officers than their white peers and that officers in predominantly Black school districts were more likely to view students themselves to be threats.

Black students and other students of color also are disproportionately likely to have negative interactions with police in schools, ranging from referrals to law enforcement to being arrested or restrained, said Katherine Dunn, director of the Opportunity to Learn program at the Advancement Project. Since 2007, the Advancement Project has documented at least 200 instances of officers at schools assaulting students, she said.

It shows all the physical harms that young people experience by police," she said. "It's also the experience of being degraded and made to feel like a criminal because you have to walk down the hallway to your class with several armed cops, who are not there for your safety, who you see arrest your friends, assault your friends.

In 2018, after the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, the state Legislature passed laws mandating public schools to have either law enforcement or armed personnel present on campuses.

FORMER COP SHOT IN SANTA FE: Increase security or let parents, teachers protect themselves

A study of the law's impact by F. Chris Curran, a University of Florida professor, found the expanded police presence was followed by an increase in school arrests and the number of reported behavioral incidents. He said there are many factors to consider in deciding the role police play in schools.

I'd like to see that conversation include thoughtful considerations of potential benefits, decreasing certain kinds of behaviors, but also the potential unintended consequences, if that's increasing the likelihood students are arrested or potentially increasing racial disparities in discipline and arrest rates, Curran said.

While there are examples of school resource officers who have intervened in incidents of gun violence, Curran said, the presence of law enforcement does not always guarantee that shootings or other violence won't occur, or that the officer would be immediately effective at stopping the perpetrator and minimizing casualties.

In a statement issued this week on best practices for school security in the wake of the Uvalde, Texas, shooting, the National Association of School Resource Officers emphasized the importance of having a carefully selected, specifically trained SRO on its campus whenever school is in session.

FORMER SHERIFF: Uvalde shooting response was missing true grit in leadership

The nonprofit group has rejected criticism that officers contribute to a school-to-prison pipeline. Officers who follow its best practices, it says, do not arrest students for disciplinary issues that would be handled ordinarily by educators.

Increase of police presence at schools

As elsewhere around the country last week, the police presence was increased outside schools across North Carolina to provide reassurance to families in the wake of the Uvalde, Texas shooting.

Wake County schools have 75 school resource officers, drawn from several local law enforcement agencies.

The Wake County Black Student Coalition's campaign to remove the officers stemmed partly from student accounts of bad experiences with officers, including a 2017 incident where a school resource officer was filmed picking up a Black girl and slamming her to the ground, said Chalina Morgan-Lopez, a high school senior who is co-president of the student group.

I think it's a reasonable response to want more officers in schools, especially from people who genuinely do feel protected by law enforcement, even though that's not my lived experience," Morgan-Lopez said. "But I think people need to take into account ... that officers do in fact do more harm than they do good."

LENDING A HAND: How Houston is stepping up to support victims' families after Uvalde tragedy

Last summer the school system made several changes to its school resource officer program, including a new process for fielding grievances involving officers and adjustments to training to prepare them better for the school environment, said Lisa Luten, a spokesperson for the school system. The review was based on community feedback the district sought in the wake of the killing of George Floyd and the resurgence of the Black Lives Matter movement, Luten said.

This is not a new conversation for us," she said. That certainly brought it back to light.

Ma, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, writes about education and equity for APs Race and Ethnicity team. Follow her on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/anniema15

The Associated Press reporting around issues of race and ethnicity is supported in part by the Howard Hughes Medical Institutes Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
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Berkshire Arts & Technology graduates 39 in the class of 2022 on Saturday.

BArT Class of 2022 Sent Off With Advice, Assurance



Each graduate selected a staff or faculty member who had an impact on their time at the school to present with a flower in appreciation. See more photos here.

ADAMS, Mass.  Graduation for the Berkshire Arts & Technology Public Charter School's class of 2022 was a bit of a reunion on Saturday.



The 39 graduates welcomed back two former teachers to give the commencement addresses and some perspective on changes they'd seen in the class.



Both Jamal Ahamad and Michael Vogt talked about their first year teaching with the class in middle school, and how they'd been anxious and, said Vogt, "absolutely terrified," and how much they had learned from the students.



Jamal Ahamad, now teaching English and African-American literature at Taconic High School when he's not a multimedia designer and choreographer, recalled his first year of teaching in 2017 with the class, saying he was impressed with how bright they were even at a young age.



It was during one lesson on social dynamics and gender roles, when he realized that the students were thinking in the ways of humanity in total, not idealized roles.



"It was in that moment with y'all, when I realized about young people, especially y'all, is that you have the audacity of hope," he said. "You had the audacity that you were so willing to put yourself out there and say, 'this is who I am, this is the normal to me.' It blew my mind the views that y'all used is now commonplace today, but you were doing it four or five years ago ... there are people my age who don't know who they are."



He left the class with words of advice to give to those who have nothing to give back because you never know what giving love can do for someone.



"Lastly, be bold enough to hold yourself accountable. Be brave enough to act upon constructive criticism as it services you and in doing so, be gentle with yourself so that you may have the space to grow and change," Ahamad said. "And as you do that, be kind enough to yourself to forgive yourself. That's the thing."



Michael Vogt, a former math teacher in the middle and high school who's now teaching out near Boston, said he was quick to pick up the phone when he saw the 413 area code and delighted to be asked to speak.



"I really was confident I was going to hold it together but you know, talking to some families, talk to some teachers about the amazing things y'all have done since I've left and the amazing things I know that you're gonna continue to do when you leave this building today," he said. "I'm extraordinarily proud of every single one of you, who you have become, who you will turn into in the future."



He also offered some advice: Sing loudly, travel at every opportunity, learn the difference between studying and learning, find a good barber and a good pair of boots, add salt to boiling water, don't mix up the Red Sox with any other team and, especially, invest.



"Not money, but that helps," he joked. "Invest in your passions, invest in your hobbies, and most importantly, invest in yourself. You are your biggest advocate and your biggest backer, you need to believe that you can do it or no one else will."



Graduation ceremonies were held in the gym. Audrey Krzanik and Abigail Webster sang the national anthem and John Kozak and Lyndon Morehouse introduced the speakers. Graduate Ty Aubin led the class in the appreciation of faculty and staff at the school that they felt had the most impact on them. Each students selected a person and presented them with a pink carnation. Shasta Racela and Kevin Santana-Menendez were the class speakers, sharing "Senior Reflections."



"BArT has been such a fundamental experience to many of us and I know we spent half of our conscious lives here making memories, and sometimes we were over Zoom making memories with our pajamas on still eating breakfast with our cameras off during homeroom," said Racela, who was a student ambassador. "We're all going on to the next chapter of our lives, whether that's college, taking a gap year, going straight to work or whatever else is in store for us. I honestly wasn't sure I'd make it this far."



They said their memories of high school weren't all about the fun, but also the "tremendous workload, the expectations I would put on myself to do everything at once."



"I wasn't alone. My teachers were always there, usually willing to accommodate when I couldn't cope," Racela said. "My friends were also there and we would help each other through any essays or slideshows that came our way. ... if we can make through high school, we can do anything."



When Santana-Menendez took the stage, his classmates laughed and cheered as he said, "I'm about to do something that I didn't think anybody would ever let me do and that's to speak freely into a microphone."



He looked back on the "tidal wave of unfortunate circumstances and events" that brought challenges and blockades during the pandemic, and the departure of some favorite teachers over the past year.



Finding ways to cope with difficulties in life can be incredibly challenging, especially as a teenager, but something he said he's always taken to heart is the human moments in life.



"A human moment is a moment where you realize how much someone actually cares, when you realize how much someone has done for you or sacrificed for you. A moment where you have built a meaningful connection with another human being or a moment of recognition for the life and feelings and accomplishments of another human," Santana-Menendez said. "I think that BArT is filled with human moments. During the four-plus years we have spent together trying to survive high school, we have build meaningful relationships with each other to help us reach the success we achieve today."



Before presenting the diplomas, Principal Erin Hattaway said the class should celebrate "all you've accomplished not in spite of what life was dictating, but in the spirit of lifelong learners. Adapting and working hard to take care of your lives and to take care of your friends and the people around you."



Executive Director Jay White said the class was living in historic times and has seen "how borders and cultures can be seemingly swept over by things like disease or national aggression."



"Turn that anxiety and uncertainty you're feeling right now and use it to harness the imagination to fashion the world that you know that we need," he said. "We're here to bask in your promise and we're here to begin to imagine with you the world that you're going to build."

The Berkshire Arts & Technology class of 2022:

Ty Jacob Aubin *+

Michaela Jade Berry **

Luciano Alexander Bertelli **

Hunter James Bishop **

Benjamin Amoako Bonsu **

Noah Michael Bourassa

Conroy Franklin Casey*

Atticus Kennedy Clark *

George Gilbert Crane **

Andrew Joaquim Cunha **

Isabelle Louise Daignault

Jordan Christina DeGrenier

Reggie Sylvester Delphia **

lan Robert Dunn **

William Nyshawn Edgerton

Kymani Kesean Ferguson **

Samuel August Spofford Gallick*

Nathaniel Carl Gillman *

Cole Bryan Hunt

Naomie Ayodele Iffetayo *

Wylie John Jones *

John Wellington Kozak *

Audrey Ann Krzanik *

Olivia Claire Leasure **++

Hope Marie Lemaire

Brianna Raquel Martinez *

Lyndon Flavius Morehouse *

Cheyenne Aaliyah Newton

Madison Elise Ostrowski *

Nicole Grace Pelton **

Shasta Nicole Racela*+ ++

Keya Lamesha Robertson

Kevin Junior Santana-Menendez*

Abigail Grace Scholl *+

Jarryd Robert Valentine *

Abigail Elizabeth Webster *

Asa Daniel Webster*

Jessie Lynn Wiles

Melvin Lee Wright **

*High honors **Honors Student Ambassador Student Council
Russian President Vladimir Putin delivers a video address announcing the start of the military operation in eastern Ukraine, in Moscow, Russia, in a still image taken from video footage released February 24. Reuters-Yonhap



Russian President Vladimir Putin warned Sunday that Moscow will strike new targets if the West supplies long-range missiles to Ukraine and said new arms deliveries to Kyiv were aimed at "prolonging the conflict."



If Kyiv is supplied with long-range missiles, "we will draw the appropriate conclusions and use our arms.... to strike targets we haven't hit before," Putin was quoted by Russian news agencies as saying.



In extracts of an interview to be broadcast late Sunday on Rossiya-1 television, Putin did not specify exactly which targets could be hit nor the exact range of the missiles to which Moscow would react.



But his comments came just days after the United States announced it would supply Ukraine with Himars multiple launch rocket systems.



Himars is a mobile unit that can simultaneously launch multiple precision-guided missiles up to 80 kilometres (50 miles) away.



Military experts say that the range of the Himars systems is slightly longer than that of similar Russian systems, meaning Kyiv's forces could strike enemy artillery while keeping out of Moscow's reach.






Climate change is the change in the usual weather of a place. Weather can be defined as everyday changes happening in our environment, for example, it might rain one day and sunshine the next day. This pattern of usual weather over a period of time for a particular place is termed climate. Climate change shifts the usual patterns in weather and this shift can have devastating ramifications.

What causes climate change?

Pixabay/Representational image

Climate changes are natural and have been occurring since the inception of our beloved Earth. But recent changes are larger in scope and scale instigated by human activities like excessive burning of fossil fuels. The fossil fuels consist of coal, oil and natural gas and when burnt they emit greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide. These greenhouse gases trap heat and prevent it from escaping the earths atmosphere which leads to global warming.

In todays liberal and globalised world, each sector is on the path of worsening the climate change crisis be it energy, industry, transport or agriculture. While scientists, activists and governments are looking forward to limiting the global temperature rise to no more than 1.5, the current scenario estimates a temperature increase around 3.2 by the end of the century.

Why should one worry about climate change?

ESG

The path that humans are on with their greed and power having little concern for the very platform they exist on is leading each one of us to our own graveyard.

Climate change sets up extreme weather conditions that are consequential and threatening to each and every one's livelihood. Farmlands turning into deserts, wildfires becoming frequent, bleaching of corals, frequent floods, extreme heat, melting of glaciers etc. are just a glimpse of all the possibilities relating to climate change.

For the developed countries, it is relatively easy to adapt or even make changes to counter climate change but developing countries find it very difficult to maintain their position on various remedies and suggestions as unlike the self-sustainable developed nations, the developing nations have an economy to support. This bias is highly useful in politics but the reality of climate change is bigger than our mere nation-states, and if not addressed with care and consistency, the fruition of nature as an ally to humans will change.

Climate adaptation safeguards people, their homes, businesses, livelihoods, infrastructure, and natural ecosystems but to reach the point of adaptation on par with a non-deteriorating climate change is a

An institutionalised effort

Unsplash/Representational image

States and their governments have come forward to acknowledge and counter the climate change crisis. This efforts pinnacle was the Paris Climate Accords in 2015 in which limiting the global temperature to no more than 1.5 (ideally) was agreed upon. The countries agreed to reduce greenhouse emissions and their progress and actions are monitored through Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC), a report submitted by each country every five years.

UNFCCC

The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) is a binding international convention to counter climate change that came into effect in the year 1994. Since then UNFCCC has been instrumental in acknowledging, addressing and countering climate change.

Today almost all countries have signed and ratified the convention making them members to the various protocols and agreements stemming from the convention.

The Kyoto Protocol, the Paris Accords, the Glasgow Pact are a few monumental consequences of the convention that are the only real action oriented response to climate change on a global scale.

The mechanism of the Conference of the Parties (COP) meeting every year to review and suggest changes is dogmatic in the discourse of countering climate change. The first COP meeting was held in 1995 and the latest being COP 26 held in Glasgow from which the Glasgow Pact emerged.

Agencies

Last week, the UNFCCC celebrated its 30th anniversary. The statement on the occasion read, We know collective success is only possible when the voices of individual people  people representing all genders, all generations, all sectors and all political stripes  are included in our efforts to address climate change.

All of us as individuals can also contribute to countering climate change in our own capacity by changing our lifestyle to a more sustainable and efficient way of living by avoiding things that act as a factor contributing to climate change.





References

da Silva, Cecilia. Conference of the Parties (COP). UNFCCC. Accessed 16 May 2022.

Gohd, Chelsea. Climate Change: Explained. Space.com, 11 May 2022. Accessed 16 May 2022.

The Paris Agreement. UNFCCC. Accessed 16 May 2022.

The Paris Agreement | United Nations. the United Nations. Accessed 16 May 2022.

UNFCCC 30th Anniversary - Tough Decisions Are Needed by All. UNFCCC, 9 May 2022. Accessed 16 May 2022.

What Is Climate Change? NASA, 14 May 2014. Accessed 16 May 2022.

What is climate change? A really simple guide. BBC, 13 October 2021. Accessed 16 May 2022.

What is the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change? UNFCCC. Accessed 16 May 2022.
Tesla Motors Inc CEO Elon Musk talks about Tesla's new battery swapping program in Hawthorne, California in this June 20, 2013, file photo. Reuters-Yonhap



Tesla Inc Chief Executive Elon Musk said on Saturday that the electric vehicle maker's total headcount will increase over the next 12 months, but the number of salaried staff should be little changed, backtracking from an email just two days ago saying that job cuts of 10 percent were needed.



"Total headcount will increase, but salaried should be fairly flat," Musk tweeted https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1533176789022957568 in a reply to an unverified Twitter account that made a "prediction" that Tesla's headcount would increase over the next 12 months.



Musk in an email to Tesla executives on Thursday, which was seen by Reuters on Friday, said he has a "super bad feeling" about the U.S. economy and needed to cut jobs by about 10 percent.



In another email to employees on Friday, Musk said Tesla would reduce salaried headcount by 10 percent, as it has become "overstaffed in many areas." But "hourly headcount will increase," he said.



Tesla's shares sank 9.2% on Friday on the news.



According to a Tesla U.S. regulatory filing, the company and its subsidiaries had almost 100,000 employees at the end of 2021.



Ahead of his emails on staffing levels, Musk on Wednesday in an email to Tesla employees issued an ultimatum to return to the office for a minimum of 40 hours a week. Failure to do so would be taken as a resignation, he wrote.



Musk on Thursday said Tesla's AI day has been pushed to Sept. 30, and said a prototype of Optimus, a humanoid robot that is a company priority, could be ready by then and could be launched next year. (Reuters)


A massive fire broke out at a private container depot, killing at least 39 people in Bangladesh's Chittagong district, authorities. According to reports 500 people have been reportedly injured in what is seen as one of the worst such incidents in the country.

The fire was reported at about 10.30 p.m. on Saturday at the private BM Container Depot Ltd, a Netherlands-Bangladesh joint venture company, in Sitakunda.





AFP

According to PTI, none of the owners or directors of the company are available, and amount or type of chemicals stored or how many containers are there is not immediately known.

Reports suggest that the fire has spread to a 5-km area.

Assistant Director of Chittagong Fire Service and Civil Defense, Md Faruk Hossain Sikdar told IANS: "Around 29 firefighting units are working to douse the blaze and 50 ambulances are on standby at the spot."

The injured people have been admitted to the different hospitals, including the CMCH and the Combined Military Hospital (CMH).



AFP

Mujibur Rahman, director of the BM Container Depot, issued a statement claiming it was not clear what caused the fire.



"But I think the fire started from the container. Arrangements are being made to ensure that the injured get the best treatment. We will bear the entire cost of the treatment. Those who were injured in the accident will be given the maximum compensation.

"In addition, we will take responsibility for all the families of all the victims," he added.





For more on news and current affairs from around the world please visit Indiatimes News.
We all know that dogs can sense an earthquake coming but now scientists are training rats to rescue earthquake survivors while wearing tiny backpacks which contain microphones and location trackers so that rescuers can trace and speak to them.

According to reports, seven rodents have been trained to make their way through earthquake debris. It took almost two weeks to make them fully equipped. Why did the scientists choose the rats to be trained? The rats were chosen because of their compact size and agility which makes them the perfect companion in disaster zones.

APOPO

The project is being led by scientist Dr Donna Kean, from Scotland's Glasgow. The 33-year-old scientist has been working in Morogoro, Tanzania, over the past year for a non-profit organisation APOPO as part of their project 'Hero Rats'.

Dr Kean has studied ecology at Strathclyde University and also holds a PhD at Stirling University - she was fascinated by how quickly rats can learn and be trained. She also wants to clear the misconception that rodents are unhygienic and called them 'sociable' creatures instead. She also believes that these well-trained rats will save many lives one day.

APOPO

"Rats would be able to get into small spaces to get to victims buried in the rubble. We have not been in a real situation yet, we have got a mock debris site. When we get the new backpacks we will be able to hear from where we are based and where the rat is, inside the debris. We have the potential to speak to victims through the rat, Kean was quoted as saying by Metro newspaper.

The rats will be sent to Turkey, which is prone to earthquakes, to work with a search and rescue team.

APOPO

H/T: Metro

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For final testing, the Artemis 1 mission rocket is currently on launch pad 39B at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Two days of testing will take place. The tanks will need to be refueled, their countdown clock reset multiple times, and then the fuel tank will be empty. Launch of the unmanned mission has been scheduled for May/June.

At 111 meters tall and 130 tons in weight, the largest rocket ever built left Kennedy Space Center's Vehicle Assembly Building yesterday on a caterpillar. It traveled 6.7 kilometers from the hangar to launch ramp at a speed of 1.6 km per hour. At 9:15 AM, the transfer was completed.

Artemisa 1 consists of the Space Launch System, (SLS), and the Orion capsule. It can hold four astronauts and has a European-made service module. NASA says the SLS is composed of a main rocket and two boosters. It will launch the Orion spacecraft towards Moon at 39,400 km/h. This mission will mark the first joint test of thrusters and space capsule. It will return to the Pacific Ocean.

This weekend's tests will be conducted by staff from the Florida Launch Control Center and Mission Control Center in Houston (Texas), the Space Force East Test Range, and the Space Force Engineering Support Center. SLS Huntsville, Alabama. The system's tanks will contain 2.7 million liters liquid hydrogen and oxygen. Launch day will see the countdown. Briefings and validation checks will be performed as part of the countdown.

After the launch time has been reached, controllers will reset the clock to T-10 minutes (10 minutes prior to liftoff) and restart the countdown. The countdown will be stopped 10 seconds before the engine starts to demonstrate that extremes are possible. The system will then return to the vehicle assembly facility, where it will be taken out of service. After that, the spacecraft and sensors will be removed. New tests will be conducted before Artemisa 1 is officially transferred to the launch pad.

Artemis 1 will be in principle the first of three missions for the new program of manned flights towards the Moon. Orion's capsule, which will remain empty during this mission, will orbit the satellite, and will reach within 100 km of its surface. This mission will last between four to six weeks. Artemisa 2 will be launched in May 2024. It will be similar to Artemisa 1, but will last ten days, and have four astronauts. NASA's most optimistic predictions suggest that the first woman will set foot on the Moon in 2025. This will be accomplished by the Artemis 3 mission. A SpaceX lunar descent vehicle and SLS spacecraft will be added. By Elon Musk
Ireland has a ratio of one garda for every 370 people, whereas the average in Europe is one police officer to 320 people.

The gardai not only lack the proper numbers for the size and population of the country, but are also less equipped than many other police forces in developed countries.

The result, according to the man in charge of the biggest police representative association in the world, is that the people of Ireland, especially those in rural areas, are not getting the service they deserve.

Calum Steeles CV is impressive. He has expert knowledge of how Irelands policing resources compare to many other countries.

He is general secretary of the International Council of Police Representative Associations (ICORA). It has 2m members worldwide. They are mainly drawn from police forces in Canada, the USA, Britain, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and several former Portuguese colonies.

Umbrella organisation

Mr Steele is also the general secretary of the Scottish Police Federation and president of the European Confederation of Police (Eu-roCOP). Founded in 2002 with its headquarters in Luxembourg, it is the umbrella organisation for police unions and staff organisations in Europe.

He is also an avid watcher of whats going with Irish policing. For the last 16 years his position in the other influential associations has seen him invited to many annual conferences organised by the Garda Representative Association (GRA), for frontline members of the force, and the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors (AGSI), representing Garda middle management.

He has regularly heard them say they need more personnel and better equipment and seen similar calls addressed in other countries, but not properly here.

One of the reasons he believes this is the case is because senior Garda management and the Government are not engaging properly with Irelands policing associations and the issues their members face on a daily basis.

At last month's GRA conference in Co Mayo, delegates called for a major roll-out of tasers and other essential equipment to frontline gardai, which Mr Steele says shows Ireland has a long way to go to provide its frontline law-enforcers with the 21st century tools they need to do the job.

Standard equipment

Tasers have been standard equipment for police forces in most developed countries for years.

Mr Steele said decisions were made in Scotland around 15 years ago about upgrading police uniforms and equipment. They also introduced rigid handcuffs rather than those with chain links still used here.

Scottish police have had body cameras for quite some time. The Irish Government, as outlined by Justice Minister Helen McEntee at the GRA conference, is only now looking at legislation to provide gardai with them.

Scottish police have had body cameras for quite some time but the Irish Government, as outlined by Justice Minister Helen McEntee at the GRA conference, is only now looking at legislation to provide gardai with them. Picture: Conor O Mearain

Mr Steele argues that gardai should be equipped with tasers for a number of reasons.

He said without tasers an offender could end up being bludgeoned into submission, which gives a negative impression of an aggressive police force to the public at large.

Having a red dot [taser aimer] pointed at you is a very sobering thing. The risk to the individual [offender] and the police is bigger without them, Mr Steele said.

This was echoed by GRA members who said tasers represent a safe medium-force way of resolving an issue. They said batoning somebody does not look good and if that person still resists the next step up the ladder is having to bring in armed support units to point loaded guns at them, with potential fatal outcomes.

Mr Steele maintains that when it comes to industrial relations between Government/senior Garda management and their frontline police Ireland is a long way from perfect".

Most EU countries would score a seven or eight [on this] but with Ireland in my opinion it would be a five, he said.

Its entirely counterproductive that gardai are kept on the fringe of industrial relations. It is absolutely shameful.

"Being kept at arms length by the Government and [Garda management] should be a warning beacon to the people of Ireland" because the powers-that-be are burying their heads in the sand as to whats going on on the ground.

"Its astonishing in the 21st century that [compared to other countries] the Garda Representative Association etc [Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors] are kept at arms length by Garda management in terms of industrial relations, Mr Steele said.

He also maintains gardai are not operating the best shift patterns, which should be two early shifts, followed by two late shifts, then two night shifts and four days off, as other more progressive countries have introduced.

Any organisation that wont listen to its workers is absolutely for the birds.

"As a result you wont attract or keep the right people and you create a level of churn which makes an organisation less effective and more expensive to fix in the long term, Mr Steele said.
The almost unbelievable style involved in owning a door knocker by Diego Giacometti speaks volumes about Hubert de Givenchy  a collector with a unique taste for mixing and matching modernity and classicism.

Deeply rooted in the culture of his country the world-renowned couturier always considered furniture in dialogue with works of art. His magnificent homes  Hotel dOrrouer in Paris and Chateau du Jonchet in the Loire Valley  display the fruits of this hugely successful quest for an ideal of classical beauty.

Starting next week the collection of Hubert de Givenchy comes up at four live auctions and two online sales at Christies in Paris. With 1,229 lots of extraordinary variety and richness put together with impeccable good taste the overall estimate is in the region of 50 million.

There are nearly 200 paintings including works by Joan Miro, Pablo Picasso, Claudio Bravo, Max Ernst and Kurt Schwitters: over 100 sculptures including works by Alberto and Diego Giacometti, Francois Girardon, Francois-Xavier Lalanne and Janine Janet and more than 440 examples of seat furniture by makers and designers from the 18th to the 20th century.

Online auctions  the art of living and the art of hospitality  get underway next Wednesday (June 8) and run to June 22 and June 23 respectively.

There will be four live auctions on successive days beginning with masterpieces on June 14. With a remarkable gathering of nearly 800 pieces of French and European furniture Christies promise that these sales will be unmissable.

A pair of monumental girandoles attributed to Pierre-Philippe Thomire for Tsar Paul I of Russia.

There are masterpieces of classical furniture from the French Regency period to the Neoclassical and beyond. Among them is a Regence console from the collection of Coco Chanel who frequently invited him for dinner. A potpourri vase is thought to have been acquired by the King of Naples around 1780 and a pair of monumental girandoles attributed to Pierre-Philippe Thomire were made for Tsar Paul I of Russia.

A Louis XVI gilt-beechwood bergere stamped by N. Quinibert Foliot, c1770 with fabric design by Georges Braque.

A Louis XVI bergere with a textile designed by Georges Braque is one example of his taste for reupholstering antique furniture with modern textiles. He loved the colour green for its calming and relaxing properties and a natural sponge painted in green by Charles Sevigny is a nod to another master of the art of mixing modern and classical works.

There are masterpieces of modern art from his friend and collaborator Alberto Giacometti whose Woman Walking is estimated at 20-30 million.

This piece greeted visitors to the first drawing room in the home of Givenchy and Philippe Venet on Rue de Grenelle.

Diego Giacometti designed door knocker.

A key painting by Joan Miro is titled Passage of the Migratory Bird and there are several works by Albertos brother Diego Giacometti (whose door knocker was at Chateau du Jonchet) and more contemporary pieces by Claudio Bravo and Francois-Xavier Lalanne. It promises to be a sale to remember, well worth exploring online.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sens ruling party is heading for victory in local elections, early indications showed on Sunday.

The poll saw people vote in large numbers for the first time since a 2018 general election that was widely criticised as unfair.

Hun Sens Cambodian Peoples Party was virtually certain to capture the lions share of 11,622 council seats being contested in 1,652 communes throughout the country.

Cambodians queue up to vote at a polling station in Takhmua, in Kandal province, south-east of Phnom Penh (Heng Sinith/AP)

The party has held an iron grip on power for decades and has the huge advantage of controlling almost every local government.

Its opponents are less organised, with much fewer resources and have complained of intimidation and threats.

The preliminary results were set to be announced commune by commune by state media on Sunday night, but an aggregated official tally will no be given until June 26.

Several governors quoted by the Fresh News website, which is close to the government, said unofficial results showed Hun Sens party winning most council races in their provinces.

Earlier, news websites that broadcast counts from polling stations had generally put the ruling party in the lead.

Turnout was more than 77% out of 9.2 million registered voters, said Prach Chan, chairman of the National Election Committee.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen and his wife Bun Rany (Heng Sinith/AP)

He said the election was free and fair, without intimidation or threats, contrary to the UN Human Rights Office in Geneva that last week said there has been a pattern of threats, intimidation and obstruction targeting opposition candidates.

Hun Sens party was the only one to field candidates in all the communes. Its most serious challenger was the Candlelight Party, which was rallying opposition supporters.

Hun Sen, an authoritarian ruler in a nominally democratic state, has held power for 37 years. He and his wife cast their ballots on Sunday morning in Kandal province near the capital, Phnom Penh.

Hun Sen has said he intends to stay in office until 2028 and has endorsed one of his sons to succeed him.

The local elections are held a year ahead of the general election and are regarded as a test of the parties strength.

A police officer drops his voting slip into a ballot box (Heng Sinith/AP)

In the last communal elections in 2017, the main opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party made an unexpectedly strong showing, which led Hun Sens government to crack down on it as well as independent media.

The party was dissolved by the Supreme Court on a charge of treason, widely seen as politically motivated, and the free press was driven out of business or cowed into submission.

Without the Cambodian National Rescue Party on the ballot, Hun Sens party was assured of victory in the general election the following year, taking all the seats in the National Assembly.

Several Western nations imposed sanctions on the government after judging the 2018 election neither free nor fair.

The harshest measure came from the European Union, which withdrew some preferential trading privileges.

The dissolved Cambodia National Rescue Party, whose sitting members were also ousted from their political posts, remains banned, with most of its top leaders in exile.
The British Home Office has been accused of attempting to deport unaccompanied minors to Rwanda.

Charities claim there is a worrying pattern of asylum seekers who are under the age of 18 being classed as adults by the British government.

The refugee charity Care4Calais is currently engaged in an age dispute with the Home Office over two teenage boys who have been issued with notices of removal.

While the boys say they are 16, the Home Office  after undertaking age assessments  claim they are 23 and 26 respectively.

It is essential that proper age assessments are done before any deportation takes place, the charity said in a statement, pledging to use its lawyers to challenge the notices.

One (of the) 16-year-old (boys) saw his brother killed in front of him when his village was raided in Sudan. He escaped and went back later to find the whole village gone.

Anti-trafficking charity Love146 UK similarly expressed alarm over the British governments age assessment system for asylum seekers.

Campaigns manager Daniel Sohege told The Guardian the charity is seeing children as young as 14 being incorrectly age-assessed as 23.

He added: The number of children we have seen who have just had 1999 put down as their date of birth when they are clearly under 18 is highly concerning, and putting young people at risk.

Lauren Starkey, a social worker for the charity, told the newspaper: It is not within the realm of possibility that anyone, especially someone trained in child protection, could look at the children we have seen and believe they are in their 20s.

The PA news agency has asked the Home Office for comment over the charities claims.

They come after the Home Office said it will not remove any person from Britain if it is unsafe or inappropriate to do so, and denied that unaccompanied minors will be among those sent to Rwanda as part of the governments controversial scheme to process migrants offshore.

Home Secretary Priti Patel said she is determined the UK will send migrants to Rwanda (James Manning/PA)

Earlier this week, Britain's home secretary Priti Patel said she is absolutely determined that the country will send migrants to Rwanda despite the prospect of legal challenges being mounted by human rights groups.

The Home Office has begun formally notifying migrants of their removal to Rwanda, with the first deportation flight expected to depart on June 14.

The government described the move as the final administrative step in its partnership with the east African nation, whereby people who are deemed to have entered Britain illegally will be encouraged to rebuild their lives thousands of miles away.

Nearly 10,000 migrants have arrived in the UK so far this year after crossing the English Channel in small boats, Government figures show (Gareth Fuller/PA)

Despite the prospect of the removals being held up by court action from human rights groups, Ms Patel said she is resolute about delivering the scheme for the British public.

She added: It is unprecedented. Its the first of its kind and I can tell you something else  its exactly what the British people want.

Described by Ms Patel as a world-first agreement when it was announced last month, the deportation policy will see asylum seekers deemed to have entered the UK by illegal means sent to Rwanda, where their claims will be processed.

If successful, they will be granted asylum or given refugee status in the country.

Those with failed bids will be offered the chance to apply for visas under other immigration routes if they wish to remain in Rwanda, but could still face deportation.
Slow travel continues to experience popularity as the tourism industry recovers from COVID-19 and considers new COVID restrictions and protocols. One-way passengers can absorb the culture of their destinations is by taking the train.

A recent Travel + Leisure report highlights Amtraks Crescent Route helps passengers travel from New York to New Orleans and engage in exhilarating stops along the way.

Crescent Route runs daily between New York City and New Orleans, servicing 32 stations across the southeastern United States. While passengers can purchase a ticket that takes them through the entire route (a 30-hour journey with plenty of amenities), passengers who want to get off the train and immerse themselves in different destinations can purchase stop-specific tickets.

The Crescent Route accommodates passengers' travel aspirations, bringing them from Philadelphia to Atlanta, or Charlotte, North Carolina, to Wilmington, Delaware with ease.

Here are some key stops along Amtraks Crescent route:

New York City - Moynihan Train Hall (NYP)

Manhattan is a vibrant city and travelers should take at least a day to immerse themselves in its beauty. Central Park, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the High Line, and the Empire State Building are exciting tourist attractions that all visitors should experience. New York City bagels and pizzas are also delicious foods tourists should try.

Washington, D.C. - Union Station (WAS)

By stopping at Washington, D.C. tourists can view the National Mall, which means that visitors can explore the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, among many others. Also be sure to check out the beautiful cherry blossoms if it is the correct season.

Charlottesville, VA - Charlottesville Union Station (CVS)

Home to the University of Virginia and a variety of culinary destinations that benefit from the citys farm-to-table culture, every tourist is bound to enjoy Charlottesville. From walking along the brick-paved Historic Downtown Mall, exploring hiking paths, and going to Scott Stadium, visitors can easily immerse themselves in the robust city.

Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Peachtree Station (ATL)

Atlantas green spaces, local cuisine, and top-tier museums, makes it an exciting travel destination. Tourists should be sure to visit the Beltline, the Georgia Aquarium, and the Ponce City Market.

New Orleans, LA - Union Passenger Terminal (NOL)

The last and final stop on the Crescent Route is New Orleans, Louisiana, home to entertaining jazz music, Cajun and creole food, and distinctive architecture that makes the city unique.

Although New Orleans is typically known for its Mardi Gras celebration, travelers can engage in the lively atmosphere at any time of the year.

For the full Travel + Leisure report, click here.
In this undated file photo released by the Taiwan Ministry of Defense, a Chinese PLA J-16 fighter jet flies in an undisclosed location. Australia on Sunday, said a Chinese J-16 fighter jet carried out dangerous maneuvers threatening the safety of one of its maritime surveillance planes over the South China Sea. Taiwan Ministry of Defense via AP-Yonhap



Australia on Sunday said a Chinese fighter jet carried out dangerous maneuvers threatening the safety of one of its maritime surveillance planes over the South China Sea and forcing it to return to the base.



Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said his government expressed concern to China over the May 26 incident, which the Defense Ministry said took place in international airspace where a Chinese J-16 intercepted a P-8A Poseidon surveillance aircraft on routine patrol.



Defense Minister Richard Marles said the Chinese J-16 flew very close to the Australian plane and released flares and chaff that were ingested by the engines of the Poseidon, a converted Boeing 737-800.



''The J-16 ... accelerated and cut across the nose of the P-8, settling in front of the P-8 at very close distance,'' he told reporters in Melbourne. ''At that moment, it then released a bundle of chaff, which contains small pieces of aluminium, some of which were ingested into the engine of the P-8 aircraft. Quite obviously, this is very dangerous.''



He said the crew of the P-8 responded professionally and returned the aircraft to its base.



There was no official response Sunday from Beijing.



Such incidents are not unprecedented. A collision between a U.S. EP-3 surveillance plane and a Chinese air force jet in April 2001 resulted in the death of the Chinese pilot and the 10-day detention of the U.S. air crew by China.



Relations between Australia and China have been poor for years after Beijing imposed trade barriers and refused high-level exchanges in response to Canberra enacting rules targeting foreign interference in its domestic politics.



Australia and others have also sought to block Chinese inroads into the South Pacific, including Beijing's signing of a security agreement with the Solomon Islands that could result in China's stationing of troops and ships in the archipelago, which lies less than 2,000 kilometers (1,200 miles) from the Australian coast.



Last month's incident comes amid increasingly aggressive behavior by the Chinese military in border areas and at sea targeting planes, ships and land forces from India, Canada, the United States and the Philippines.



In February, Australia said a Chinese navy ship fired a laser also at one of its Poseidon surveillance planes, illuminating it while in flight over Australia's northern approaches and endangering the safety of the crew.



China claims the South China Sea virtually in its entirety and has been steadily ratcheting up pressure against other countries with claims to parts of the strategic waterway. That has included construction of military facilities on artificial islands and the harassment of foreign fishing vessels and military missions in the air and international sea.



Earlier this year, U.S. Indo-Pacific commander Adm. John C. Aquilino said China has fully militarized at least three of its island holdings, arming them with anti-ship and anti-aircraft missile systems, laser and jamming equipment, and military aircraft.



The U.S. and its allies have consistently challenged the Chinese claims by staging patrols and military exercises in the area, provoking angry responses from Beijing despite agreements aimed at reducing tensions.



''We're operating completely within our rights ... most of our trade traverses the South China Sea,'' Marles said. ''This incident will not deter Australia from continuing to engage in these activities, which are within our rights and international law to assure that there is freedom of navigation in the South China Sea, because that is fundamentally in our nation's interest.''(AP)


This Week in Review

A weekly review of the best and most popular stories published in the Imperial Valley Press. Also, featured upcoming events, new movies at local theaters, the week in photos and much more.
Johnson City, TN (37604)

Today

Scattered thunderstorms this morning, then mainly cloudy during the afternoon with thunderstorms likely. Potential for severe thunderstorms. High 78F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms. Low near 65F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%.
Johnson City, TN (37604)

Today

Scattered thunderstorms. Gusty winds and small hail are possible. High 77F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Cloudy skies early with scattered thunderstorms developing late. Gusty winds and small hail are possible. Low near 65F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.
Johnson City, TN (37604)

Today

Thunderstorms likely. Gusty winds and small hail are possible. High 78F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%..

Tonight

Considerable cloudiness. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 64F. Winds light and variable.
A person holds a "Free Hong Kong" sign during a candlelight vigil commemorating the anniversary of the 1989 Tiananmen square massacre in Beijing, standing outside of the Chinese consulate in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, June 4. AFP-Yonhap



Hong Kong authorities on Saturday detained several people as they pounced on any attempt at public commemoration of the 33rd anniversary of the Tiananmen crackdown, while around the world tributes were paid to the victims of the bloody event.



As night fell, candles appeared in the windows of several foreign countries' missions to Hong Kong  in defiance of a warning not to do so  and on various street corners around the city.



Discussion of the events of 1989, when China set troops and tanks on peaceful protestors, is all but forbidden on the mainland.



Semi-autonomous Hong Kong had been the one place in China where large-scale remembrance was still tolerated  until two years ago when Beijing imposed a national security law to snuff out dissent after widespread pro-democracy protests in 2019.



Authorities had warned the public that "participating in an unauthorized assembly" Saturday risked a maximum penalty of five years' imprisonment.



They also closed large parts of Victoria Park, once the site of packed annual candlelight vigils that were attended by tens of thousands on the anniversary.



The park and nearby Causeway Bay shopping district  one of the city's busiest neighborhoods  were heavily policed all day Saturday.



People were stopped and searched for carrying flowers, wearing black and, in one case, carrying a toy tank box.



Multiple people detained



Five men and one woman, aged 19-80, were arrested in the course of the day, Hong Kong police said.



Three of them were detained for obstructing officers in the execution of their duties, one for inciting others to join an unauthorized assembly, and the remaining person was apprehended for possession of offensive weapons, according to the police.



Activist Yu Wai-pan from the League of Social Democrats (LSD) party was also briefly detained but later released without charge, according to his party.



"For 33 years it has always been peaceful, but today it's like (police) are facing a big enemy," Chan Po-ying, head of the LSD, said.



Security was heightened in the Chinese capital Beijing on Saturday, with officer numbers bulked up, and ID checks and facial recognition devices set up on roads leading to Tiananmen Square.



China has gone to exhaustive lengths to erase the crackdown from collective memory, omitting it from history textbooks and scrubbing references to it from the Chinese internet and social media platforms.



A similar approach is now beginning to be applied to Hong Kong, as authorities remould the city in the mainland's image.



Since last September, the Victoria Park vigil's organizers have been arrested and charged with subversion, their June 4 museum has been closed, statues have been removed and memorial church services cancelled.



Commemoration events in Macau were also cancelled this year.





Protesters block the road with a cardboard tank as they attend a vigil to commemorate the 33rd anniversary of Tiananmen Square crackdown outside the Chinese Embassy in London, Britain, June 4. Amnesty International organized vigils around the world, including San Francisco, Washington D.C., Seoul, Taipei, Sydney, Oslo, Paris, and Amsterdam as the vigil in Hong Kong's Victoria Park has been banned for the past two years on COVID-19 grounds by the Chinese authorities. EPA-Yonhap
The law firm of Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP (www.ktmc.com) informs investors that the firm has filed a securities class action lawsuit against AbbVie, Inc. (AbbVie) (NYSE: ABBV) on behalf of all persons and entities who purchased or otherwise acquired AbbVie securities between April 30, 2021, and August 31, 2021, inclusive (the Class Period).

CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT YOUR ABBVIE LOSSES. YOU CAN ALSO CLICK ON THEFOLLOWING LINK OR COPY AND PASTE IN YOUR BROWSER: https://www.ktmc.com/new-cases/abbvie-inc?utm_source=PR&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=abbvie&mktm=r

TO VIEW OUR COMPLAINT, PLEASE CLICK HERE

CANNOT VIEW THIS VIDEO? PLEASE CLICK HERE

LEAD PLAINTIFF DEADLINE: JUNE 6, 2022

CLASS PERIOD: APRIL 30, 2021 through AUGUST 31, 2021

CONTACT AN ATTORNEY TO DISCUSS YOUR RIGHTS:

James Maro, Esq. (484) 270-1453 or Email at [email protected]

Kessler Topaz is one of the worlds foremost advocates in protecting the public against corporate fraud and other wrongdoing. Our securities fraud litigators are regularly recognized as leaders in the field individually and our firm is both feared and respected among the defense bar and the insurance bar. We are proud to have recovered billions of dollars for our clients and the classes of shareholders we represent.

ABBVIES ALLEGED MISCONDUCT

AbbVie is one of the worlds largest pharmaceutical companies. The companys revenues will come under significant pressure in the coming years when its best-selling drug, Humira, will lose patent protection in 2023. Accordingly, AbbVies future revenue and earnings depend in large part on its ability to develop new sources of revenue to offset Humiras lost sales. Rinvoq-an anti-inflammatory drug manufactured by AbbVie and used to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and other diseases by inhibiting Janus kinase (JAK) enzymes-was touted as one such drug. Rinvoq was initially approved in the United States to treat only moderate to severe RA. However, AbbVie was actively pursuing additional
In "Why Her?" Episode 2, Oh Soo Jae (Seo Hyun Jin) becomes a professor at Seojung University and gets entangled with the students, particularly with Gong Chan (Hwang In Yeop).

'Why Her?' Episode 2: Choi Tae Guk Restricts Oh Soo Jae From Coming to TK Law Firm

Oh Soo Jae went to TK Law Firm to attend the inauguration of the newest managing partner Choi Ju Han (Ji Seung Hyun). But she was surprised when she was restricted from entering the premises, not until Choi Tae Guk (Heo Jun Ho) came and let her in for a while.

Seeing how others were celebrating her defeat made Oh Soo Jae mad and became more determined to get back at those who dragged her down.

Meanwhile, the female lawyer received a call from the law school reporting that the class would be canceled because these students didn't want to attend her class.

Oh Soo Jae Brings Her Students Back

Oh Soo Jae offered an internship at TK Law Firm and allowance per year to the one who can top the class. She then entered the room filled with students. Choi Yoon Sang (Bae In Hyuk) and Gong Chan (Hwang In Yeop) who were the only people who stayed before the announcement and were surprised when their classmates returned.

Further, Oh Soo Jae with the help of her team, threatened Lee In Soo (Jo Young In) and Han Sung Beom (Lee Kyoung Young) about their anomalies. She also told Choi Tae Guk that the two high-ranking officials tried to bribe her to save their names in public, which alarmed CEO Tae Guk.

Gong Chan and Choi Yoon Sang Squad Save Na Se Ryeon

Na Se Ryeon (Nam Ji Hyun) made headlines after confessing that professor Seo Joon Myung (Kim Young Pil) sexually assaulted her during their school welcome party.

People didn't want to believe her and even Nam Chun Poong (Lee Jin Hyuk) lied during the investigation.

Then, Gong Chan, Choi Yoon Sang, and Jo Gang Ja (Kim Jae Hwa) believed in Se Ryeon and formed an alliance to prove her innocence.

After collecting strong evidence to show that Seo Joon Myung molested Se Ryeon, they entered the board meeting and presented their proof.

Everyone was in shock, including Seo Joon Myung. But he was not satisfied with the proof and asked Oh Soo Jae's opinion. The female gave him the option to talk about it in private, but he insisted.

She then showed the copy of the CCTV footage during the after-party when Seo Joon Myung was caught harassing Oh Joo Sae. All of them, particularly Gong Chan, were surprised by what Jae Soo did. Thanks to their team-up, Seo Joon Myung was kicked out of the university.

Gong Chan Confesses To Oh Soo Jae

After the meeting, Gong Chan followed Oh Soo Jae and told her that she shouldn't go beyond showing that video of her to help Na Se Ryeon's case. Because of what she did, Gong Chan praised her and called her cool.

He tried to keep it to himself, but Gong Chan ended up confessing his feelings for Oh Soo Jae. His confession caught her off guard. The male student has a tragic story, and it was Soo Jae who helped him overcome it. This is why he pursues law to meet her again and thank her for what she did in the past.

Unfortunately, Soo Jae has no idea who Gong Chan is.

Have you watched "Why Her?" Episode 2? How's the story so far? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!

For more K-Drama, K-Movie, and celebrity news, follow and subscribe to KDramastars.

KDramastars owns this article.

Shai Collins wrote this.
Much Ado About Nothing may have been written more than 500 years ago, but William Shakespeares comedy has never felt fresher to A.J. Magoon.

Theres a lot going on right now, he said. Its a heavy world, and people are dealing with a lot. So, I think part of its appeal is as an escape.

As executive director of the Summit Players Theatre troupe, Magoon is bringing Much Ado About Nothing to Bong State Recreation area Friday.

The performance kicks off the groups 2022 Shakespeare in the State Parks tour.

In this comedy  one of the Bards most popular plays  two couples seeking romance are kept apart through Shakespeares usual comedic complications of mistaken identities and what Magoon calls merry madness.

Summit has always been about having fun, about making people laugh and cracking wise and clowning a little bit, he explained. Comedy is where we started, and I think theres something delightful about a comedy on a warm summer day that just lifts your spirits.

More specifically, Much Ado is about deceit, plotting and outright lies, he added. Its about starting off at odds with someone and growing to care for them. Its about the hard work it takes to trust someone and to love someone. Its not a preachy play  its funny and a lot of those themes are subtle  but they are absolutely things I think all of us are contending with every single day.

On Wisconsin!

The traveling theater company, now in its eighth season, will bring the comedy to state parks and forests across Wisconsin from June 10 through Aug. 20. In all, the actors will set up shop in 23 different spots.

We work in state parks because Wisconsin has such a great park system, Magoon said. Working with the Wisconsin DNR, we can hit virtually every nook and cranny of the state and invite communities from all over to join us for workshops and performances.

And the parks are so, so great  theyre such important public resources. We want people to know that, no matter what theyre going for, they can go to the parks for a good time, and that they should come back time and time again.

The troupe added one new park this season: Merrick State Park in Fountain City on the western side of the state, Magoon said.

Every year, its a balancing act of what parks are working well for us and which ones should we consider changing? Are we serving any areas in the state too heavily to the detriment of not reaching other areas?

When pressed to name some favorites, Magoon said he has a strong affinity for the performance locations at Rib Mountain State Park and Mirror Lake State Park, boasting some of the most beautiful amphitheaters in the Wisconsin State Parks, in my opinion.

As for overall park experience, he added, Ill never pass up a hike along the river at Copper Falls State Park.

Started at Bong

The Summit Players Theatre was founded in 2014 by Hannah Klapperich-Mueller, who was inspired after a family camping trip.

I was walking past a wooden amphitheater in a state park, and I thought wouldnt it be great to go there and do a show? she said.

At that time, Klapperich-Mueller was an undergraduate student at Marquette University, and she enlisted some of her classmates into doing a tour through Wisconsins state parks.

The troupes first show was at Bong, and the troupe continues to start the tour at Bong because thats where we started, and they were so receptive to us. Audiences, she said, continue to embrace the outdoor shows.

Magoon, who has been with the troupe since the beginning, said Bong still holds a special place for the Players.

Theres a reason we always start at Bong, he said. What an incredible crowd. The first year, Bong was our first show, like always, and we were taking bets in the car: Would we get 10 people to show up? Fifteen, maybe 20? We had 75 that first year, and every year since, weve gotten that kind of warm reception: 70 people, 80 people, sometimes more than 100.

The crowd at Bong was the first real indication that what we were doing was important to people, not just to us, he said. Its one of the reasons we decided to turn Summit into a real company, and its one of the reasons were still around today.

But what if I hate Shakespeare?

Getting people over the Shakespeare hump can be difficult, Magoon concedes.

When someone tells him, I cant understand the language in Shakespeares plays, so I cant go to the show, hes quick to respond.

I dont think thats true. Of course, its easy to think that, he said. People are introduced to Shakespeare in school or somewhere when theyre younger, and they get this sense that his plays are dense and impenetrable  like another language.

We really focus on making things understandable in a few ways: When our adapter and director, Maureen Kilmurry, cuts the scripts, she concentrates on taking out the weird references, the old jokes and the phrases that only made sense 400 years ago. And when were rehearsing, we make sure our actors understand what theyre saying. They can paraphrase the whole show into modern English if needed.

The goal, he said, is always clarity, and the result is a show that anyone can enjoy. It doesnt matter if you understand every single word, you still get the jokes and you can follow the plot and care about the people. Thats what were after.

Shakespeare 101

To help people get ready for the 7 p.m. show at Bong, the acting company leads a 45-minute workshop on Shakespeare, designed to help modern audience members get over their fear of the Bards works.

The free pre-show workshop is interactive, with theater games and a discussion about Shakespeare, plus a preview of the show.

The pre-show educational workshop is a great way for kids and families to get into the world of the play were doing, Magoon said. It goes over the characters, the themes and the plot in an interactive and simple way so that, by the time the performance rolls around, even kids who have never seen Shakespeare before have a baseline for whats going on.

Also, the script adaptation emphasizes the plot and character arcs to make the action easy to follow, and between the constant character switching, the slapstick and hijinks, the music, the dance and the fast-paced fun, we work to make it easy to keep paying attention.

The shows are designed for children 8 years and older and adults. The play will be performed rain or shine  moving inside if the weather is bad.

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A patient undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer was diagnosed on April 20th with profound secondary adrenal insufficiency (hypophysitis: ACTH undetectable, cortisol 0.2) caused by immunotherapy (pembrolizumab). She was started on corticosteroids and sent home from the hospital on April 24th with a prescription for only five days of prednisone. After completing the five days of prednisone, she predictably began to feel profoundly weak and nauseous. She continued losing weight and was unable to eat. Finally, after developing a fever, her family brought her to the emergency department for evaluation on May 15th.

Despite easy access to her recent hospital records, the emergency physician promptly diagnosed her with septic shock due to a urinary tract infection and called the hospitalist for admission. After at least a couple of hours in the ED, the patient had already received a full sepsis fluid bolus, antibiotics, cultures, and was subsequently placed on a norepinephrine drip due to refractory hypotension.

Something wasnt right, though. Her symptoms had reportedly gone on for weeks before admission, yet she had a normal white blood cell count, and her lactic acid was only slightly above normal range. The hospitalist asked the ED physician by phone if something else might contribute to her hypotension, maybe cardiogenic or hemorrhagic shock. Nope, he was told.

In less than a minute, the answer was apparent. The discharge summary from April 24th clearly listed adrenal insufficiency secondary to chemotherapy as a top diagnosis, and the patient was shockingly not taking any corticosteroids. Within moments, the hospitalist called the ED physician back and asked him to immediately give intravenous hydrocortisone.

Within 24 hours, the patient felt remarkably better, and she had an appetite for the first time in weeks. Her urine culture grew E. coli, and she was treated for the infection, but her adrenal crisis likely played a large role in her overall clinical status. If corticosteroids had not been started, the outcome could have been much worse. It is also scary to think that if the patient had not developed a fever, she might have stayed home longer, weakened further, or even died.

There is often a combination of errors in such cases that leads to the adverse outcome. In this case, the discharging hospitalist failed to prescribe long-term corticosteroids, and the patient did not have a prompt follow-up with her oncologist. Perhaps the electronic medical record had a default of five days of prednisone built into the orders that the hospitalist clicked on inadvertently.

I was the hospitalist who admitted her on May 15th. When I evaluated her in the ED, she was surrounded by multiple family members, all very concerned. The patient and her family were clearly intelligent enough to understand the concept of adrenal insufficiency and the importance of long-term corticosteroid therapy. This reinforced what I have always believed: Educating the patient and family about their medical conditions is probably the most important safety measure we can take.

Imagine if the patient (and family) had been carefully taught this at the time of discharge: You have a serious condition called adrenal insufficiency. This means that your adrenal gland, which makes cortisol, is not working. Your body absolutely needs cortisol to survive. So, you will very likely need to take some type of corticosteroid for the rest of your life, every day. Never let your prescription run out, and never let a doctor stop your corticosteroids without a good reason. Now, can you teach me what I just told you?

This is the conversation I had with her and her family in the emergency department, and every subsequent day she was in the hospital.

Even if we provide excellent care in every way, if the patient doesnt understand their disease, the risk of adverse events remains high. Unfortunately, patient education is not a metric that hospitals or hospitalists are incentivized to achieve. In this case, the quality officers were certainly watching closely to see that the sepsis fluid bolus and antibiotics were given, cultures obtained, and that serial lactic acid levels were monitored at appropriate times, etc., but sadly, no quality officer has ever come to me to check if a patient has been educated about their condition and medications. Despite all of our so-called focus on quality, the quality officer would never have noticed if the diagnosis of adrenal crisis was missed entirely. Unfortunately, thats how we measure quality these days. We strain at a gnat and swallow a camel.

This month, I was pleasantly surprised when I reviewed a medical record of one of my patients who had recently been at the University of Virginia Medical Center in Charlottesville, VA. Through remote access, I found both a standard discharge summary (for doctors) and a second discharge summary written for the patient (in simple terms). Impressive. Its extra work for the doctor, but its a sign that someone is thinking outside the box about patient safety. How would your hospitalist team react to such a requirementto write two discharge summaries? What would their response say about their priorities?

Too often, when admitting a competent patient with a recent hospitalization, I find that they have little to no idea what happened during the previous hospitalization. Some doctors would blame the patients for not having the capacity to understand medical topics. An old doctor I worked with as a medical student used to say, chuckling, in response to a patients question about their medical diagnosis: Oh, youd have to go through four years of medical school to understand that! Honestly, I think he just wanted to move on to the next patient. Certainly, some patients cannot understand the complexities of their medical conditions, but we should at least take time to explain, in simple terms, the most critical aspects of their disease; or reach out to an engaged family member.

I fear that with pressures like discharge before noon, hospitalists are forced to rush patients out without taking time to do a very important thing: educating the patient using the teach-back method. As professionals and as a specialty, hospitalists need to step back, awaken our common sense, and take time to teach our patients. It could save their life.

David M. Mitchell is a hospitalist.

Image credit: Shutterstock.com
The Clonmel Show and Agricultural Society Ltd. announces the launch of the National Artisan Food Awards for 2022.

After a short break and now in its third year, these awards are aimed uniquely at artisan food producers.

The inaugural Clonmel Show National Artisan Food Awards in June 2018 was deemed an outstanding success and a true boost for the promotion of Artisan Foods in Ireland.



The Clonmel Show National Artisan Food Awards 2022 will bring together for judging produce from genuine artisan producers whose business meets the Food Safety Authority of Ireland Food Marketing Terms Guidelines for the use of the term Artisan:

The Food is made in limited quantities by skilled craftspeople.

The processing method is not fully mechanised and follows a traditional method.

The food is made by a micro enterprise in a single location

The characteristic ingredient(s) used in the food are grown locally where seasonally available and practical.

Turnover is less than 300,000

The classes will be judged in the following categories:

Preserves

Sauces / condiments

Dairy produce

Bakery (Savoury/Sweet)

Honey

Chilled meat / fish products

Chocolate

Non-alcoholic bottled drinks

Modern Irish Artisan

In the class entitled Modern Irish Artisan Foods, the judges will be looking for standout produce that they believe to offer something new and exciting to the Irish food scene.



The overall winner in each class will receive a Clonmel Show National Artisan Food Awards trophy handmade by Philippe Hetier, artisan wood-craftsman (www.philippehetier.com). There will be cash prizes of 80, 50, 20 respectively and Clonmel Show rosettes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place in each class.

Gold, silver and bronze awards will also be awarded to entrants who meet particular

standards to be set by our judging panel.

This years judging list includes food luminaries such as Richard Gleeson, Con Traas, Sarah Furno, Sinead Delahunty, Janine Kennedy, Declan Malone and Kai Ghanem.

Background

The Clonmel Show & Agricultural Society is a registered charity and is run by a voluntary committee of management. It has now been 157 years since the first agricultural show was held in Clonmel. A widely acclaimed exhibition in Tipperary County Museum which ran for much of 2015 highlighted the long history of the exhibition of agricultural produce at Clonmel Show.



The societys rule book which dates back to 1924 lists as the first of our objectives: To promote the improvement of horses, cattle, sheep, swine.....agricultural produce, creameries, bee-keeping,

cottage and other industries.



Further information including entry forms may be found here https://www.clonmelshow.ie/ artisan-food-awards. Contact: Mike Quirke, Chairman Food Awards foodawards@clonmelshow.ie Ph: 087 289 1285
Shenandoah, IA (51601)

Today

Partly cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 77F. Winds NNW at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Mostly clear. Low around 55F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph.
Weather Alert

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE HAS ISSUED SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH 329 IN EFFECT UNTIL 5 AM CDT EARLY THIS MORNING FOR THE FOLLOWING AREAS IN MISSOURI THIS WATCH INCLUDES 12 COUNTIES IN CENTRAL MISSOURI AUDRAIN BOONE CALLAWAY COLE MONITEAU OSAGE IN EAST CENTRAL MISSOURI CRAWFORD FRANKLIN GASCONADE LINCOLN MONTGOMERY WARREN THIS INCLUDES THE CITIES OF COLUMBIA, FULTON, JEFFERSON CITY, MEXICO, SULLIVAN, UNION, AND WASHINGTON.

...A SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 400 AM CDT FOR NORTHWESTERN COLE...BOONE AND WESTERN CALLAWAY COUNTIES... At 338 AM CDT, severe thunderstorms were located along a line extending from near Midway to near Easley, moving east at 60 mph. HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts. SOURCE...Radar indicated. IMPACT...Expect damage to roofs, siding, and trees. Locations impacted include... Columbia Regional Airport, Lake Mykee Town, Murry, Lake Mykee, New Bloomfield and Fulton. This also includes Rock Bridge State Park, Finger Lakes State Park, Jewell Cemetery Historic Site, and Jefferson Landing Historic Site. This includes Interstate 70 in Missouri between exits 121 and 144. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building. && HAIL THREAT...RADAR INDICATED; MAX HAIL SIZE...
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy gives a speech virtually to the National Assembly in Seoul, April 11. Korea Times photo



'Lack of cause' for Russian retaliation



By Kang Seung-woo



South Korea, sticking to a stance of sending only non-lethal supplies to Ukraine, has found itself in a tricky situation over a new request to export artillery ammunition to Canada, after the North American country sent its own shells to the war-torn Eastern European country.



The South Korean government has maintained that there are limits on sending lethal weapons to Ukraine due to possible fallout in diplomatic ties with Russia, and there is speculation that a possible ammunition shipment from Seoul to Ottawa could be seen by Moscow as indirect support from South Korea for Ukraine.



According to the Ministry of National Defense, the Canadian government has inquired if Seoul could export tens of thousands of 155-millimeter artillery shells to Ottawa due to an ammo shortage there. In the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which began in February, Canada has sent its own ammunition to Ukraine.



"It is true that Canada has asked if we can export artillery shells," deputy ministry spokesman Army Col. Moon Hong-sik said during a regular press briefing.



"However, there has been no official process or progress made in this regard yet," he continued.



Moon refused to elaborate on whether other countries have also requested ammo exports for similar reasons.



The Ukrainian government, including President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, has asked the South Korean government to supply military equipment to help the country's fight against Russian aggression.



However, the defense ministry has said that there are limits to providing lethal weapons to Ukraine, citing the security situation and the potential impact on the military's readiness posture.



Instead, South Korea has focused on providing largely humanitarian support, with it set to ship a third batch of non-lethal aid, comprised of gas masks and mask canisters that are worth 1.5 billion won ($1.18 million), by next month.



Russia has designated South Korea as an "unfriendly" nation, citing the latter's participation in international sanctions against Russia, including export controls and Moscow's removal from the SWIFT network, through which trillions of dollars change hands in cross-border payments.



"Along with the designation of South Korea as an unfriendly country, Russia will stand up for North Korea against the international community's punishment for its provocations such as ballistic missile and nuclear tests," said Park Won-gon, a professor of North Korean studies at Ewha Womans University.



In fact, Russia and China vetoed a United Nations Security Council resolution last week that proposed tougher sanctions on North Korea following its ballistic missile launches.



However, there is also speculation that possible retaliation from Russia toward South Korea would be limited.



"So far, there have been no retaliatory actions against countries that have sent military equipment to Ukraine even though Russia has strongly condemned them," a diplomatic source said.



"Due to possible fallout, including exits of multinational companies operating there, the Russian government also seems to remain very cautious before taking any action," the source continued.



A defense ministry official also said there was little room for Russia to object.



"As Canada wants to import ammunition for its stockpiles, it is not that we are supplying weapons to Ukraine, leaving little chance for Russia's resistance," the official said.



"There is a lack of cause for retaliation against South Korea," the official said.




President Yoon Suk-yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida / AFP-Yonhap



By Kang Seung-woo



Speculation is rising of a long-awaited Korea-Japan summit on the sidelines of the NATO leaders' meeting scheduled to take place in Spain later this month as both President Yoon Suk-yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida are considering attending the June 29-30 meeting.



The presidential office is said to have sent an advance team, comprised of officials from the foreign ministry as well as its own staff, to the host country, while Japan's Kyodo News reported, Saturday, that Japanese officials were planning to travel to the Spanish capital.



Since before his inauguration, May 10, Yoon has called for a future-oriented approach to restoring bilateral ties between Seoul and Tokyo, overshadowed for years by historical and territorial disputes, believing that an improved relationship would help trilateral cooperation that also includes the United States to effectively deal with North Korea's growing nuclear and missile threats.



In that respect, Yoon dispatched a policy consultation delegation to Japan, the second of its kind following the U.S., before taking office and also tried to invite Kishida to his inauguration ceremony for a South Korea-Japan summit that last took place in December 2019. But Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi attended instead.



In addition, Yoon held a phone conversation with Kishida two days after his election, saying he hopes the two sides will work together to promote friendly cooperation between their countries.



According to the Kyodo report, based on government sources, the Yoon administration had sounded out the Japanese side about the first summit between the two leaders, but the presidential office has yet to confirm Yoon's participation in the upcoming NATO summit.



If Yoon travels to Spain, it would be his first overseas trip as South Korean president.



The NATO summit could also set the stage for a summit trilaterally with U.S. President Joe Biden, with whom Yoon sat down in Seoul, May 21.




Angola, IN (46703)

Today

Partly cloudy skies this morning will give way to cloudy skies and rain during the afternoon. High near 70F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%. Rainfall near a quarter of an inch..

Tonight

Partly to mostly cloudy skies with scattered thunderstorms during the evening. Low 52F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%.
Senior members of the royal family have wished Lilibet - the daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex - a happy first birthday.

Lilibet's grandparents Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall and her uncle and aunt the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge sent greetings to mark her special day on Saturday (04.06.22).

A tweet from Charles and Camilla's account read: "Wishing Lilibet a very happy 1st birthday today!"

The message from Prince William and Catherine's joint Kensington Royal account said: "Wishing a very happy birthday to Lilibet, turning one today!"

Queen Elizabeth met her great-granddaughter for the first time this week as Prince Harry and Meghan returned to the UK for the monarch's Platinum Jubilee celebrations - two years on from their decision to step down as senior royals and relocate to California.

Lilibet was born in the United States and was named in honour of the Queen, whose family nickname has been Lilibet since she was a child.

According to the Daily Mail newspaper, the 96-year-old monarch met Lilibet at Windsor after the royals attended the Trooping the Colour ceremony on Thursday (02.06.22) - where Harry and Meghan were spotted watching the parade from the Major General's Office having not been invited to join the Queen and other royals on the Buckingham Palace balcony.

Prince Harry and Meghan made their first public appearance in the UK together since 2020 on Friday (03.06.22) as they attended a service of thanksgiving for the Queen's reign at St Paul's Cathedral.

The couple travelled to the UK with their three-year-old son Archie and Lilibet but neither of the children have been seen at the Platinum Jubilee events so far.
FORMER First Lady Grace Mugabes first husband Stanley Goreraza has reportedly died after battling cancer and suffering stroke.

Although efforts to get an official comment from his family were fruitless yesterday, a notice seen by NewsDay directed to Volendam Court residents in Harare, where Goreraza was staying at the time of his death, said he had died yesterday morning.

Good morning. I hope I find you all well. It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing on of our dear friend, Stanley Goreraza. He passed away this morning after a long battle with cancer and stroke. May his dear soul rest in peace, read the message to residents at the flat situated in Harares Avenues area.

Air Force of Zimbabwe spokesperson Squadron Leader Donovan Muroyiwa said he was not yet aware of the development. Im not yet aware of his death, Muroyiwa said.

Goreraza, who was once married to Grace before they separated and she married the late former President Robert Mugabe, once served as an Air Force of Zimbabwe pilot. He and Grace had a son together, Russel Goreraza.

After Mugabe snatched Grace away from him, Goreraza was posted to serve as a military attache, in China and later in India.

Mourners are gathered at number 2665 Mahogany Circle in New Marlborough. Newsday
Just over two months out from the Democratic U.S. Senate primary, tightening polls show the hard-fought race is still anyones to win.

And as the top four candidates look toward attracting the nearly half of all Democratic voters that the latest Marquette Law School Poll shows as having no preference so far in the race, experts say reaching those voters will be a matter of image, candidates emphasis and reach  not their mostly similar policy positions.

Each of the top candidates  Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes, Milwaukee Bucks executive-on-leave Alex Lasry, state Treasurer Sarah Godlewski and Outagamie County Executive Tom Nelson  has extremely high favorability ratings among the voters who are familiar with them. And they generally agree about codifying abortion protections, bolstering voting rights, forgiving student loan debt to some extent and investing in renewable energy.

There are some subtle differences, however  like what to do about the contested Enbridge Line 5 pipeline project in northern Wisconsin, specific health care policies, reforming the U.S. Supreme Court and whether to lift Title 42, a policy the federal government has wielded to turn immigrants away at the border during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Their policy differences are not great, UW-Madison political science professor Barry Burden said. Theyre pretty much on the same page. If they got to office, their votes in the Senate would be pretty similar.

When it comes to environmental policy, Barnes proposes a Green New Deal that works for Wisconsin, Nelson touts a Blue-Green New Deal including strong labor laws, Godlewski wants more environmental policies but doesnt support the Green New Deal, and Lasry, who also doesnt support the Green New Deal, wants to bring environmentally friendly union jobs to Wisconsin.

I think its hard for those nuances to really carry the day, Marquette Law School Poll director Charles Franklin said. I think its usually more a matter of one candidate who finds an area to emphasize that someone else is not emphasizing.

In terms of Democratic voter preference, there is a 14-point gap between the top four candidates, according to the latest Marquette poll: Barnes is at 19%, followed by Lasry at 16%, Godlewski at 7% and Nelson at 5%.

The biggest voter group, by far, was the 48% of voters who had no preference.

The primary is Aug. 9.

Race takes shape

Barnes is emphasizing rebuilding the middle class, lowering costs and bringing jobs to Wisconsin as well as bolstering voting rights. The son of a third-shift General Motors line worker, Barnes has proposed new measures to increase American production and advocated for existing measures that have been proposed, like Democratic U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwins Made in America Act. Unlike many of his opponents, Barnes does not have a substantial net worth, but he has reported raising $4 million from donors, more than his Democratic opponents.

In his first ad, Barnes emphasized that he was affected by rising prices and wasnt a millionaire unlike other senators and candidates  implicitly referring to Lasry, Godlewski and Republican U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson.

Asked whether Barnes was firmly ahead of the pack, Burden said, We still got some months to go and there will be debates, probably, and other things that could change the course of the campaign. But I do think its going to be a challenge for him to hold his front running position throughout.

In his many ads, Lasry  who has put close to $6 million of his money into the race, far more than his primary opponents  has emphasized paying fair wages, cutting costs, supporting unions and building the economy environmentally. A Milwaukee Bucks executive on leave, Lasry has also highlighted his efforts to pay Fiserv Forum workers a $15 minimum wage and build the arena using union labor.

While Lasry has crept up on Barnes with his bigger ad campaign and monetary investment, Democratic strategist Tanya Bjork said at a WisPolitics luncheon last month that Lasrys stable position behind Barnes does say a lot about Barnes relative comfortability as the frontrunner.

Godlewski, who has put about $3 million into the race, almost immediately took to the airwaves after a leaked draft opinion showed the U.S. Supreme Courts intent to overturn nationwide abortion protections. She has used her status as the only female top-tier candidate to pitch voters on child care policy and abortion rights, while also pushing for increased investments in rural areas and economic security.

While Aprils Marquette poll showed Godlewski well behind Barnes and Lasry, the leaked Roe v. Wade draft opinion may have given her a needed surge.

We had the best grassroots fundraising week of the campaign (after the leak) and it hasnt let up, Godlewski spokesperson Sarah Abel said.

Burden said Godlewskis ad and post-Roe leak efforts really could see her jump forward in the polls.

In his first ad, Nelson criticized a massive taxpayer subsidy to build Milwaukee Bucks Fiserv Forum that he says benefitted the rich at taxpayers expense. Lagging behind in the polls without Barnes vast donor base or Lasrys and Godlewskis ability to self-fund, Nelsons ad was his latest in his string of taking shots at his opponents. Nelson has also spent a lot of time campaigning on Medicare for All, building unions, opposing the Line 5 pipeline and confronting corporate power.

Burden said Nelson was a clear underdog among the top-four with his lack of donations and visibility compared with other candidates, but that nothing was impossible.

He could pull this off, but he has more of a steep road, he said.

Focus on Barnes

At last months WisPolitics luncheon, Republican strategist Keith Gilkes was asked who would be the weakest Democratic U.S. Senate candidate to compete against Johnson. Bjork, the Democratic strategist, was asked who would be the strongest. Both said Barnes.

Highlighting Barnes position as lieutenant governor to Democratic Gov. Tony Evers, Gilkes said, There is some ... synergy between running against Tony Evers and Mandela Barnes because they almost represent the same thing.

Maybe running against Mandela Barnes makes the most sense because then you can really run against the entirety of the Democratic Party, he said.

Bjork responded that she would be happy with Republicans using the same playbook running against Evers and Barnes. Evers has pitched himself as a centrist Democrat who works across the aisle while Barnes has received criticism for having supported, to some extent, more liberal issues like Medicare for All and the Green New Deal.

Especially this year, turnout is going to matter a lot, said Bjork, who highlighted low Democratic turnouts in Milwaukee, especially among Black voters. For obvious reasons Mandela Barnes is very motivating to that base, she said, adding that Barnes  the son of a union line worker and union school teacher  also has a compelling personal story.

Barnes is the clear frontrunner. (He) was a year ago, still is today, probably will be tomorrow unless theres a significant shakeup in this race, Bjork said.

The pipeline issue

While the candidates generally agree on most issues, theyre torn on the proposed Enbridge Line 5 pipeline project in northern Wisconsin that supporters say could generate hundreds of union jobs while opponents fear for potentially disastrous environmental impacts.

As a result of a lawsuit, the Canadian pipeline company wants to remove a 12-mile segment of its Line 5 pipeline from the Bad River Reservation and bypass it with about 41 miles of new pipe through Ashland, Bayfield and Iron counties.

According to a draft environmental review, the $450 million project would cross some 185 waterways, including the Bad River, and temporarily disturb about 135 acres of wetlands.

The company says the line, which transports an average of 540,000 barrels a day between Superior and southwestern Ontario, is a key piece of energy infrastructure, delivering crude oil and natural gas liquids to terminals in Michigan. Supporters, including Republican lawmakers, trade unions and the state chamber of commerce, tout the economic impact and 700 construction jobs needed to complete the reroute.

Opponents say the project endangers waters, including Lake Superior, and goes against warnings from international scientists to halt new investments in fossil fuel infrastructure in order to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Opponents also point to dozens of past spills on Enbridge pipelines, including a 2010 rupture in Michigan that cost $1.2 billion to clean up. According to the environmental review, Enbridge spilled about 1.4 million gallons of oil over the previous decade, which amounts to less than one-thousandth of a percent of the oil transported.

Nelson  who has made his opposition to the project a campaign centerpiece and called out the other candidates for not speaking out against it in the past  said jobs can be created in a manner that doesnt put the environment at risk.

Its not just the threat of spills that makes Line 5 unacceptable for Wisconsin, Nelson said at a public hearing. Its unacceptable because it represents a dangerous reliance on the very fossil fuels that are causing the ongoing, ever-escalating climate crisis.

His stance contrasts with Godlewski, who called for a forward-looking energy policy less dependent on fossil fuels but said, As we create the clean energy economy for tomorrow, we must also create good-paying jobs and lower energy prices today.

Carefully upgrading existing infrastructure is how we smartly bridge that gap, she added.

Lasry wants the pipeline shut down immediately, too, spokesperson Thad Nation said. But if Line 5 stays open, Lasry would support the relocation project as long as the state of Michigan first approves a controversial Enbridge project to relocate part of Line 5 beneath the Straits of Mackinac in northern Michigan, Nation said.

I dont support the Line 5 project, Barnes said. My focus is on creating good-paying union jobs in renewable energy that will deal Wisconsin workers in on the economy of the future.

The Governors Task Force on Climate Change, which Barnes chairs, called for Wisconsin to halt new investments in fossil fuel infrastructure, though there wasnt a consensus within the task force on the proposal.

The task forces final report states Wisconsin cant mitigate the climate crisis without bold action to reduce fossil fuel use and pivot to renewable energy.
New Delhi [India], June 5 (ANI): Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party leader Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday lashed out at the Centre over the alleged killing of Kashmiri Pandits in Jammu and Kashmir and said that Kashmiri Pandits were being "forced" to leave their homes, while asserting that "BJP can't handle Kashmir".

Addressing the Aam Aadmi Party's 'Jan Aakrosh Rally' at Jantar Mantar in Delhi, Kejriwal said, "Kashmir was ours, belongs to us and will remain ours. Kashmiri Pandits were being forced to leave their homes, a repeat of what happened in the 1990s."

Also Read | Gujarat: Four Injured in Clash Between Two Upper Class Groups in Surendranagar District.

"Whenever there is a murder in Kashmir, it comes in the media: 'Home Minister called a meeting..' Too many meetings are being held while people are dying. Now, India needs action. People want action to be taken by the government. Tell the plan to the country," he said.

The AAP National Convenor said, "The truth is that BJP can't handle Kashmir. When they (Kashmiri Pandits) protest against the targeted killings, the present BJP government in Kashmir does not allow them to protest. If the government behaves like this, the suffering of the people becomes double."

Also Read | BJP Acts Against Spokesperson Nupur Sharma, Media Chief Naveen Jindal for Making Insulting Religious Comments.

"BJP government has failed in this. The era of 1990 has come again. They (Centre) don't have any plans. Whenever there is a murder in the valley, news comes that the Home Minister has called a high-level meeting. Enough of these meetings! Now, we need action. Kashmir wants action!," he said.

After a rise in attacks on minorities in Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha earlier this week ordered the officials to post selected government employees and other members from minority communities in Kashmir at secure locations by June 6.

The development comes as Kashmiri Hindu government employees have been protesting against the killing of a Hindu woman teacher Rajni Bala, who was shot dead by terrorists in Kashmir's Kulgam district on May 31.

Last month, two civilians - including Kashmiri Pandit employee Rahul Bhat -- and three off-duty policemen were killed in Kashmir by terrorists.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday held a meeting with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and other top officials on security in Jammu and Kashmir.

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police Dilbagh Singh also participated in the meeting. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Visual from the meeting of the Central Planning Group for Bharat Jodo Yatra (Photo/ANI)

New Delhi [India], June 5 (ANI): Congress held a meeting of the Central Planning Group here on Sunday to prepare for the Bharat Jodo Yatra which will be taken out from Kanyakumari to Kashmir.

The Bharat Jodo Yatra, which is aimed at connecting Kanyakumari in Southern India to Kashmir in Northern India, will begin on October 2.

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"The first meeting of the Central Planning Group for Bharat Jodo Yatra took place today. The Kanyakumari to Kashmir yatra will start on October 2 and planning for it began in right earnest. Rahul Gandhi also attended the meeting," INC Member of Rajya Sabha Digvijay Singh said in a tweet.

Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi announced this mass campaign to counter polarisation politics with the slogan Bharat Jodo" on May 16--the last day of the Congress -led Chintan Shivir in Udaipur.

Also Read | 'Views of Fringe Elements': India on Qatar's Response to Comments on Prophet Muhammad (Check Tweet).

According to party sources, the five-month-long yatra which is scheduled to cover a distance of 3,500 kilometres and more than a dozen states, will commence from Kanyakumari and will conclude in Kashmir.

The yatra will include padayatras, rallies, and public meetings which will be attended by the Congress top brass including Sonia Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra.

Earlier, the sources had said that like-minded parties, members, and organisations from civil society will also be a part of this mass campaign. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], June 5 (ANI): West Bengal Congress chief Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury on Saturday slammed the Centre over recent killings in the Kashmir valley and called it the failure of the government's policy.

The senior Congress leader also alleged that people are fleeing the Kashmir valley to save their lives.

Also Read | West Bengal Post-Poll Violence: CBI Grills Two Trinamool MLAs Close to Anubrata Mondal.

"People are leaving the Kashmir valley to save themselves; this is a failure of the government's policy. It's a delicate situation," Chowdhury told ANI.

Several targeted killings of innocent civilians in the Kashmir valley took place over the past two months and the victims include members of the Kashmiri Pandit community, civilians, and those working with the government departments.

Also Read | Gyanvapi Case: Jamaat-e-Islami Hind Asks Central Govt to Uphold Places of Worship Act to Protect Mosque.

Meanwhile, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel also hit out at the Centre yesterday over the recent targeted killings in Jammu and Kashmir and said the problem persists despite the strategy adopted by the government and the method to solve it "has been unsuccessful".

"Earlier Kashmiri Pandits were killed and now Hindus (migrants) are getting killed. Whatever strategy you (Centre) have adopted, the problem still exists even after that. The method used to solve the problem has been unsuccessful," he told ANI.

A bank manager, identified as Vijay Kumar, was shot dead by terrorists in the Kulgam district of Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday.

Earlier this week 36-year-old Hindu woman teacher Rajni Bala, hailing from Jammu's Samba district, was shot dead by terrorists at a government school in Gopalpora, Kulgam. Last month, two civilians - including Kashmiri Pandit employee Rahul Bhat -- and three off-duty policemen were killed in Kashmir by terrorists.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also held a meeting on Friday with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and other top officials on security in Jammu and Kashmir. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
New Delhi, June 5 (PTI) A 60-year-old man was injured after his e-rickshaw was hit allegedly by a speeding car in west Delhi's Vikaspur area on Sunday, police said.

Bhukkal Ram, the injured driver, is a resident of Uttam Nagar, they said.

Also Read | Tamil Nadu: Seven Girls Drown in Check Dam Built Across Geddilam River Near Cuddalore District.

A call about the accident was received at around 10.43 am, police said.

According to police, Dharmender Jain, 42, a resident of Shakurpur, was allegedly speeding his car when he first hit an auto rickshaw and then an e-rickshaw being driven by Bhukkal Ram.

Also Read | Gujarat: Four Injured in Clash Between Two Upper Class Groups in Surendranagar District.

Bhukkal Ram was admitted in Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital where his condition was stated to be normal, a senior police officer said.

"We have registered a case and arrested the car driver," he said, adding an investigating is underway.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Chandigarh, Jun 5 (PTI) Teams from the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited on Sunday conducted raids in different parts of Mohali circle and imposed a fine of Rs 59.11 lakh against 92 consumers for alleged power theft and unauthorised usage.

Power Minister Harbhajan Singh said that raids were conducted in several villages, including Kandala, Naraingarh, Dhakauli, Thuha under Zirakpur and Banur sub-divisions, and in Jhampur and Sector 123 of Mohali division.

Also Read | Karnataka: Woman Commits Suicide in Mysuru; Parents Allege Dowry Death.

"Some electricity metres have been found dubious and these teams sealed them on the spot and sent them to the lab for further necessary examination," he added.

Few cases of unauthorised usage of electricity were also found in Sarsini, Togapur, Lalru, Lalru Mandi and Dhangerha village in Lalru division.

Also Read | Tamil Nadu: Seven Girls Drown in Check Dam Built Across Geddilam River Near Cuddalore District.

Singh said that the Punjab government is committed to controlling the menace of power theft and Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has given clear instructions to the power corporation to take strict action against erring consumers.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Srinagar, Jun 5 (PTI) The first batch of 145 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday left for Saudi Arabia on the annual Hajj pilgrimage which was resumed this year after remaining suspended for two years in the wake of COVID-19, officials said.

About 6,000 pilgrims from the union territory are scheduled to undertake the pilgrimage this year, they said.

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According to the officials, while there will be only a single direct flight from Srinagar airport to Jeddah airport for the first five days, two flights will operate thereafter.

"All arrangements have been put in place. Everything is going on smoothly and the pilgrims will not face any problems," executive officer of the Jammu and Kashmir Hajj Committee Abdul Salam Mir told reporters here.

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He said all the pilgrims tested negative for COVID-19.

The pilgrimage was flagged off by executive officer and member of the Hajj Committee of India Aijaz Hussain.

He said the Hajj Committee and the union territory government have made all arrangements for the pilgrimage.

"We have tried to improve facilities for pilgrims this year," he said.

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha interacted with the pilgrims via video conference.

"Interacted with first batch of Haj pilgrims from J&K. Conveyed my greetings and best wishes to people undertaking sacred pilgrimage. I pray for successful Haj pilgrimage & peace, amity and prosperity for UT of J&K," the LG wrote on Twitter.

National Conference president Farooq Abdullah and vice president Omar Abdullah, too, greeted the pilgrims.

"JKNC President Dr Farooq Abdullah, Vice President @OmarAbdullah greets the selected Hujaaj leaving for the holy journey today. They urge the Hujaaj to pray specially for lasting peace and prosperity in J&K, Ladakh, the party tweeted.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], June 5 (ANI): The Forensic team on Sunday reached the Jubilee Hills Police Station to collect evidence from the car used in the gangrape of a 17-year old teen in Hyderabad last week.

Notably, the development came hours after Telangana Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan ordered the Chief Secretary and the DGP to submit a report in the said gangrape case within two days.

Also Read | Tamil Nadu: Seven Girls Drown in Check Dam Built Across Geddilam River Near Cuddalore District.

Four accused persons, including three juveniles have been apprehended in the case so far, while the fifth person is still absconding.

A 17-year-old girl was allegedly gangraped when she was returning home after a party in the Jubilee Hills area of Hyderabad on May 28. Following the incident, the minor girl's father submitted a complaint to the police regarding the incident.

Also Read | Gujarat: Four Injured in Clash Between Two Upper Class Groups in Surendranagar District.

Following the complaint, a case was registered against five accused involved in the case under sections 354 and 323 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Section 9 read with 10 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

The security footage which is viral on social media purportedly showed the girl standing with the suspected attackers outside the pub where she had met them. The boys had offered to drop her home. Instead, she was assaulted inside a parked car in the city.

Her attackers took turns to rape her while others stood guard outside the car.

Telangana Home Minister Mohammed Mahmood Ali has promised that no leniency is being adopted in the Hyderabad gangrape case while also clarifying that the state police department works without pressure and does not spare the culprits. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Vishakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh) [India], June 5 (ANI): GVMC (Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation) completely banned the usage of single-use plastic from June 5 (Sunday) on the occasion of World Environment Day under corporation limits. Now, GVMC announced that major tourist spots as plastic-free zones.

GVMC Commissioner G Lakshmi Shah said, "People are not allowed to bring plastic items into these locations, irrespective of the microns, followed places are not allowed to bring plastic items into these locations, the spots include RK Beach, VUDA Park, All Abilities Park, Rushikonda, Thotlakonda, Kailasagiri and Tenneti Park."

Also Read | Decoded: Why Not All Obese Patients Develop #diabetes

Read:  Latest Tweet by IANS India.

The GVMC opened an eco-bazaar on the beach road on June 5 to offer cloth/jute bags and other environment-friendly products at subsided prices to drive the public towards plastic alternatives. Vizag produces about 1,000 tonnes of waste a day out of which plastic constitutes about 200 to 300 tonnes. We do not hesitate to impose penalties on those who flout the norms. Our intention is to minimise plastic use in the city, but not to levy penalties on the public, said Lakshmi Shah.

Shah stated that ahead of the plastic ban, every household in Vizag to get 2 cloth bags from GVMC for below the poverty line people free of cost. The GVMC is conducting a series of meetings with key stakeholders of the city, including NGOs, resident welfare associations, and women self-help groups, to seek their cooperation to make the ban successful.

Also Read | Gujarat: Four Injured in Clash Between Two Upper Class Groups in Surendranagar District.

Meanwhile, GVMC conduct a rally with all student and government bodies against the use of plastic on Sunday from RK Beach to the YMCA junction in the Beach raid of Visakhapatnam and later distributed cloth bags.

The program witnessed the participation of Minister Amarnath, Mayor Venkata Hari Kumari, GVMC commissioner Lakshmi Shah District collector Mallikarjuna and Visakhapatnam city police commissioner Srikanth participated. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Bhuj, Jun 5 (PTI) A total of 49 packets containing drugs were recovered after they got washed ashore in the creek area of Arabian Sea near Jakhau in Gujarat's Kutch district, a police official said on Sunday.

Also Read | Gujarat: Four Injured in Clash Between Two Upper Class Groups in Surendranagar District.

The drug packets were discovered by Border Security Force and local police and are suspected to be part of the consignment being smuggled on a Pakistani boat recently apprehended by Coast Guard working jointly with the Gujarat Anti Terrorist Squad, Kutch (West) Superintendent of Police Saurabh Singh said.

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"Each packet weighs around one kilogram. We are checking whether the drugs are the same that were being smuggled on the Pakistani boat. An ATS team is coming to check and confirm the same," he said.

The Coast Guard had apprehended Pakistani boat Al Noman with seven crew members in the intervening night of May 30-31, working jointly with the state ATS on information that it was carrying contraband. However, rummaging of the boat had not yielded any drugs.

Preliminary questioning of the seven arrested Pakistani nationals revealed that two plastic bags containing the contraband were loaded on the boat and were to be unloaded in another boat after entering Indian waters, the ATS said.

After entering the Indian waters, 'Al Noman' was trying to establish contact with another boat via VHF, officials said.

When they noticed the ICG ship approaching them, they threw the two bags into the sea, the officials added.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Welcome Guest! You Are Here:
A 32-year-old Gwanda woman yesterday rode her luck after she won two cars at the OK Grand Challenge Jackpot Promotion final event that saw winners walking away with 47 vehicles and other prizes at Borrowdale Racecourse in Harare.

Portia Dube, a married mother of two, secured two Nissan NP200 vehicles which were sponsored by two of OK Zimbabwe Limiteds partners for the event, Arenel and CABS. In an interview with The Sunday Mail, the ecstatic Dube said she was confident of winning as she had travelled all the way from Gwanda to attend the draw.

I am so elated at having won these two cars. Last year, I won five times from weekly draws. This year, I have been buying at OK shops almost every day. I was targeting products that were on promotion and my hopes were high this year considering the number of entries I made. That is why I travelled all the way from Gwanda, she said.

In his keynote remarks at the event, OK Zimbabwe board chairperson Mr Herbert Nkala said this years Grand Challenge was historic due to the huge number of prizes on offer.

The OK Grand Challenge Jackpot Promotion is a national happiness occurrence that symbolises the heart of what we stand for as OK Zimbabwe Limited. We are giving away 47 cars today, which has never happened before in the history of our promotions here in Zimbabwe and in Southern Africa at one go, he said.

The promotion has grown bigger, better and much more exciting. The 44 cars out of 47 are coming from our supplier partners and three are coming directly from us.

He said the OK Grand Challenge horse race had been recently classified as a Grade 1 competition internationally, making it one of the biggest races on the racing calendar globally. Prosper Zambuko from Kwekwe drove away with a double-cab Ford Ranger, which was the main prize from OK Zimbabwe Ltd. Sunday Mail
New Delhi, Jun 5 (PTI) Union minister Anurag Thakur on Sunday accused Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal of "politicising" the targeted killings in Jammu and Kashmir at a time when all sections of the society were standing firm with the people of the Union territory.

"At a time when the entire nation is standing shoulder to shoulder with the people of Jammu and Kashmir and condemning the acts of terror, Kejriwal has not spoken a word of condemnation against the separatist forces," he said in a statement here.

Also Read | Assam Pre Poll Violence: BJP Office in Karbi Anglong Set on Fire Before Polls.

"Those who question the valour of armed forces and join hands with anti-national Khalistani forces for the sake of power, with what face will they condemn terror?" he asked.

The minister's remarks came on a day when Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party staged protests in the national capital against the killings in Kashmir and slammed the BJP-led Union government for the situation.

Also Read | 'Views of Fringe Elements': India on Qatar's Response to Comments on Prophet Muhammad (Check Tweet).

Addressing the protest, the AAP supremo alleged that the BJP government had failed to provide security to Kashmiri Pandits. He said Union Home Minister Amit Shah had failed to provide any action plan to tackle the situation in Kashmir.

Thakur, the information and broadcasting minister, accused Kejriwal of resorting to "low level politics" over the situation in Kashmir.

He said the Jana Sangh and the BJP have been relentlessly giving voice to the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and fought for the abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35A.

He added that the Narendra Modi government has been working for all round development of Jammu and Kashmir and taken decisive steps to free the region of terrorism.

"The recent incidents in Kashmir are unfortunate and condemnable. BJP does not need a certificate from you (Kejriwal). You first remove your corrupt ministers," the Union minister said.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
New Delhi, Jun 5 (PTI) Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Sunday said India deeply values Qatar's role in its energy security and underscored the need to move beyond buyer- seller relationship into a comprehensive energy partnership.

Naidu reached Qatar on Saturday on the last leg of his three-nation tour. He is the first ever vice president of India to visit the State of Qatar.

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The vice president called on Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, father of Amir of Qatar and held delegation level talks with Sheikh Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al Thani, the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior of Qatar on Sunday.

Highlighting that India and Qatar have historic ties built on mutual trust and respect, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, father of Amir of Qatar hoped that more investments can be made by Qatar in India and more industrial and business houses can establish economic ties with Qatar.

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The vice president and father of the Amir agreed that there is a huge potential to diversify trade between the two countries, a statement issued by the Vice President Secretariat said.

Appreciating that Qatar's investment in India has grown five times since March 2020, Naidu opined, it is still well below potential and can be substantially increased.

He also said that there is a keen interest in the private Indian business community to build partnerships with Qatar.

The vice president lauded Qatar for emerging as an education hub in the region and expressed happiness over several Indian universities opening offshore campuses there.

He thanked Qatari leadership for taking care of the 7.8 lakh Indians in Qatar. "We are happy to note that Indians are found in all walks of life and have become a part and parcel of Qatar's developmental journey," the statement said quoting Naidu.

Naidu also reiterated the Indian community's long standing request for a prayer hall and a crematorium in Qatar.

Referring to the landmark visits by the Amir to India in 2015 and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Qatar in 2016, Naidu said the relations are driven by close chemistry between the leadership of the two countries.

Observing that nearly 40 per cent of India's gas requirements are met from Qatar, Naidu said that India deeply values Qatar's role in its energy security and underscored the need to move beyond buyer- seller relationship into a comprehensive energy partnership.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Jammu (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], June 5 (ANI): Kishtwar Police and Security Forces (17 RR) on Sunday arrested one terrorist of Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) identified as Talib Hussain in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district.

According to the police, Talib Hussain joined the terrorist ranks of the HM outfit in the year 2016 and remained active along with other terrorists of Kishtwar and remained instrumental in reviving militancy by way of recruiting youths in militancy.

Also Read | Tamil Nadu: Seven Girls Drown in Check Dam Built Across Geddilam River Near Cuddalore District.

"But later on, due to some squabble with other HM terrorists left HM group and remained at large, however, Kishtwar Police worked meticulously on the leads obtained about his whereabouts and pre emptied his move to affect the revival of militancy in the area as he got arrested after dodging the Police and other security agencies for a long time," said the police.

An FIR under relevant sections of law has been registered in police station Kishtwar and investigations have been taken up, the police added. (ANI)

Also Read | Gujarat: Four Injured in Clash Between Two Upper Class Groups in Surendranagar District.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Poonch (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], June 5 (ANI): With an aim to curb terrorism in the valley, State Investigation Agency (SIA) conducted searches and seizures at various locations in Poonch, informed the officials.

The searches were conducted on Saturday.

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State Investigation Agency (SIA), a Specialized Agency has been constituted by the Government of Union Territory, Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) for the investigation and prosecution of terrorism-related cases.

"A special team of SIA Jammu visited the border district of Poonch, J&K in connection with the investigation of an important case of Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act of Police Station JIC, Jammu. The team visited various important locations on the border and conducted search and seizures," informed the department in an official statement.

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The Director of SIA after reviewing the working of SIA Jammu issued strict directions to speed up investigations and all efforts be made to unearth terror networks. (ANI)

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Kanpur (Uttar Pradesh) [India], June 5 (ANI): After a violent clash broke out in Kanpur on Friday, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed and the security has been beefed up between Yateem Khana and Parade crossroads while the accused were interrogated, informed the officials on Sunday.

"SIT has been formed in the Kanpur violence case and action will be taken against those who have done the work of erasing the CCTV footage," said Kanpur Police Commissioner Vijay Singh Meena.

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Huge security has been detailed in the area with an aim to maintain peace and keep the situation under control.

"The situation is under control and heavy police force has been deployed on the spot, while the interrogation of the arrested accused is going on," informed Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), Akmal Khan.

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A violent clash broke out between two groups belonging to different communities allegedly over a market shutdown in Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh on Friday.

Two persons and one policeman were injured in the aftermath of the clashes.

The violence started after some people tried to shut down shops which was opposed by the other group, said the police.

As many as 36 persons were arrested and 3 FIRs have been registered in the Kanpur violence case and further investigations are underway.

Hayat Jaffar Hashmi, the main accused in the Kanpur violence case was arrested along with three other masterminds on Saturday.

Four men involved in the conspiracy were identified, tracked, and arrested. "We will investigate if they had any links with PFI. Action will be taken under Gangster Act, and NSA and their properties will be seized," added the Kanpur CP.

Further investigations in the matter are underway. (ANI)

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Nashik (Maharashtra) [India], June 5 (ANI): Amid the scorching summer, a village in Nashik is facing a severe water crisis.

With the onset of summer, the water crisis has been reported from different parts of the country, including Maharashtra.

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In the Chichlekhaire village in Igatpuri, Nashik, women travel arduous three km-long treks to fetch water. People in the village are forced to fetch muddy water by going down into a deep well, where the water level has plummeted below the base of the well.

"It has been a month, there is no water in our village. We fetch water from far away places. A man goes down deep into a well that is almost dry and left with muddy water at the base. We demand from the government to provide us potable water," a villager Chhaya Shende told ANI.

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"The women of our village have to walk three kms every day to fetch water. We do not have water in our village. It has become very difficult for us to even feed cattle. We demand from the government to resolve the water crisis as soon as possible," said another villager Kashinath Shende.

It is not just Chichlekhaire but several other villages in Nashik facing acute water shortages.

Rohile village in Nashik is facing water shortage and the women have put their lives at stake to fetch drinking water, as they step into the well to fetch water. (ANI)

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New Delhi, Jun 5 (PTI) Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan will pay a four-day visit to Zimbabwe and the Republic of Malawi beginning Monday to further enhance bilateral ties.

In the first leg of his tour, Muraleedharan will be in Zimbabwe on June 6 and 7, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Sunday.

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From Zimbabwe, he will travel to Malawi for a two-day visit on June 8 and 9.

"During the visit to Zimbabwe, the minister of state will call on Emmerson D Mnangagwa, President of the Republic of Zimbabwe and meet other senior leaders of the country," the MEA said.

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It said he will also hold discussions with Foreign Minister Frederick Shava on various matters to enhance mutual cooperation.

In Malawi, Muraleedharan will call on President Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera and meet other senior leaders of the country.

The MEA said Muraleedharan will also hold talks with Foreign Minister Nancy Tembo on matters of mutual interest and cooperation.

The minister will also meet a cross-section of the Indian community in both the countries and participate in events marking 'Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav' celebrations.

"India shares excellent bilateral relations with both Zimbabwe and Malawi ranging across political, economic, cultural and development assistance fields, which have particularly strengthened in the past few years," the MEA said in a statement.

It said Muraleedharan's visit would add further momentum to India's multifaceted relations with the two countries.

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Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], June 5 (ANI): The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) on Sunday hit out at the Centre over recent killings in Kashmir and said it made no concrete efforts to rehabilitate Kashmiri Pandits in their homeland.

NCP chief spokesperson Mahesh Tapase said that Home Minister Amit Shah should personally ensure the safety of all the Kashmiri citizens.

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"The rise of insurgency once again in the valley targetting civilians is the failure of intelligence machinery in the valley. Home Minister Amit Shah should personally ensure the safety of all Kashmiri citizens," he stated.

Tapase said that the Centre has miserably failed to protect the lives of Kashmiri Hindus and Pandits while BJP leaders are busy promoting 'The Kashmir Files' movie.

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He also said that Maharashtra was the only state which offered safe passage to the displaced Kashmiri Pandits while BJP only played with their sentiments.

"BJP should get over religion and caste-based politics and ensure safety, livelihood, and equality to the citizens of India," he said.

A bank manager, identified as Vijay Kumar, was shot dead by terrorists in the Kulgam district of Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday. Earlier, a 36-year-old Hindu woman teacher Rajni Bala, hailing from Jammu's Samba district, was shot dead by terrorists at a government school in Gopalpora, Kulgam. Two civilians - including Kashmiri Pandit employee Rahul Bhat -- and three off-duty policemen were killed in Kashmir by terrorists last month.

Shah also held a meeting on Friday with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and other top officials on security in Jammu and Kashmir. (ANI)

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Dehradun (Uttarakhand) [India], June 5 (ANI): Marking the occasion of World Environment Day, Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Sunday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is leading the global climate movement and the world is ready to be led by India in its fight against climate change.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi is leading the global climate movement and the World is ready to be led by India in its fight against climate change- a concern that like the COVID pandemic; knows no borders, respects no wealth or any other artificial human division. The responsibility to equip us to fulfil this leadership role lies on the shoulders of women and men of our scientific community," Singh made this statement while addressing scientists at the Indian Institute of Petroleum at Dehradun today.

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Singh said that it was a happy coincidence on the World Environment Day that he was at an institution that represents the commitment of a modern and new India to protect the environment and find alternate indigenous sources of energy.

The Union Minister said that the last 8 years have witnessed the Indian crusade against climate change. "We have already achieved our commitment of 40 per cent energy production from renewable sources, way ahead of the 2030 Paris Agreement target," said Singh.

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Singh added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is leading the global climate movement and other world leaders have followed suit. He added that apart from the thrust on renewable energy from solar and hydel, the Prime Minister announced major strides in Hydrogen energy from the ramparts of the Red Fort recently. The Minister said that this lays out the roadmap of our collective intention to fight for preserving the environment.

As a science researcher himself, the Union Minister said, one must speak with evidence. The Minister said that the project by CSIR-IIP for creating bio-diesel from waste cooking oil is one of many examples at the CSIR lab which demonstrate our national intent.

The Union Minister urged the scientific community to work towards making it a mass movement. Singh said it must dawn on our people that they can make Rs 30 per litre from a waste cooking oil that they routinely throw out.

The Minister added that we know now that we throw out more carbon than we need for our energy. Innovative ways to use this waste would meet the twin goals of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' and Make-in-India. The curiosity engendered in the masses would lead to awareness and that will lead to the application of science and ease of living.

Singh said that after a long time, the political leadership and scientific community are working in tandem. The government is guided in all its actions by scientific priorities. The Minister added that the Research community must come together with academia and industry to be useful to the common people in their fight to secure dignity.

The Union Minister called on the scientists to work closely with their stakeholders in government agencies and private entities. He said that it has become a practice in the Union Government to hold inter-ministerial meetings to create synergy. Singh said that the atomic energy sector is a prime example of such collaboration. The Union Minister added that India is now a hub for the start-up ecosystem. However, he cautioned that we must not remain limited to IT-enabled services and that we must be open to the untapped opportunities in the Agrotech sector.

Singh said that it is clear that the world is facing a triple challenge: the earth is heating up faster than expected, we are losing habitat and species diversity, and the pollution continues unabated. He concluded by saying that, as we look towards the centenary of our freedom 25 years from now, we must work for the cause of generating clean energy cost-effectively.

World Environment Day is celebrated annually on 5 June and is the United Nations' principal vehicle for encouraging awareness and action for the protection of the environment. (ANI)

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New Delhi [India], June 5 (ANI): Stating that developed nations are responsible for the largest carbon emissions, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said the various campaigns launched by the Centre as part of India's multi-faceted efforts are contributing in the conservation of environment.

Speaking at the 'Save Soil Movement' program, PM Modi said, "Many government schemes carry the message of environment conservation. Be it Swachh Bharat Mission, Namai Gange, or One Sun, One Grid. India's efforts are multi-faceted. Developed nations are responsible for the largest carbon emissions."

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He said that India is making many efforts for environmental conservation even while India's contributions in carbon emisisons is negligible.

The Prime Minister further laid emphasis on the importance of "Soil Health Cards" in changing the mindset of the farmers.

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"Soil Health Cards are playing an important role in changing the mindset of our farmers. These cards provide farmers with the nutrient status of their soil and its composition. This is helping them decide what is needed for good soil health," PM Modi stated.

PM Modi said that a huge campaign was launched to give soil health cards to the farmers in the country when they were not aware of soil health.

"In this year's Budget, we've announced natural farming along the Ganga river corridor will be promoted. In March, we have begun the rejuvenation project of 13 rivers. It will also help in increasing the forest cover by over 7,400 sq km," he added.

"The policies related to biodiversity and wildlife that India is following today have also led to a record increase in the number of wildlife. Today, India has achieved 10 percent ethanol blending in petrol five months ahead of its target," he further said.

The movement was started by Sadhguru in March 2022, who embarked on a 100-day motorcycle journey passing through 27 countries. June 5 marks the 75th day of the 100-day journey.

World Environment Day is celebrated annually on June 5. It offers a global platform for inspiring positive change in the environment. It also pushes individuals to think about what they consume from the ecosystem and gives them a chance to build a greener future. (ANI)

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THE Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) has appointed Ms Winnie Muchanyuka as its substantive chief executive officer.

She takes over from ZTA chief operating officer Mr Givemore Chidzidzi who has been acting CEO since 2019.

ZTA board chairperson Mr Ray Mawerera confirmed the appointment to The Sunday Mail.

It is true that she is now our CEO, said Mr Mawerera.

Sources said Ms Muchanyuka is set to be officially unveiled at an event this week.

She started her career in the tourism industry as an air hostess at Air Zimbabwe, before joining Swiss Air, where she spent seven years as a sales representative. Ms Muchanyuka then joined South African Airways as a sales executive and rose through the ranks to become the airliners country head.

She sits on the Tourism Business Council of Zimbabwe and Chinhoyi University School of Tourism boards. Sunday Mail
New Delhi, Jun 5 (PTI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday greeted Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on his 50th birthday and lauded him, saying the state has scaled new heights of progress under his "able" leadership.

A five-time MP from Gorakhpur, the monk politician has made rapid strides in politics after being picked by the BJP leadership as the Uttar Pradesh chief minister in 2017.

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With him as the chief ministerial face in the 2022 assembly polls, the BJP scored a big win over its rivals, with his image as a tough administrator being seen as a positive.

Modi tweeted, "Birthday greetings to UP's dynamic Chief Minister @myogiadityanath Ji. Under his able leadership, the state has scaled new heights of progress. He has ensured pro-people governance to the people of the state.

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Praying for his long and healthy life in service of the people."

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New Delhi [India], June 5 (ANI): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will be on an official visit to Vietnam between June 8-10 at the invitation of Vietnam's Minister of National Defence General Phan Van Giang.

Singh will start his visit by paying respects to Late President Ho Chi Minh at his Mausoleum in Hanoi.

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You Will Also   Latest Tweet by PIB India.

According to the Ministry of Defence, Singh will hold bilateral talks with General Phan Van Giang, during which both the Ministers will review defence cooperation between the two countries and explore new initiatives to further strengthen the defence engagements. The two Ministers will also exchange views on regional and global issues of shared interest.

The Defence Minister is also scheduled to call on the President of Vietnam Nguyen Xuan Phuc and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh.

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At the Hong Ha Shipyard in Hai Phong, Singh will preside over the handing over ceremony of 12 high-speed Guard Boats constructed under the Government of India's USD 100 million Defence Line of Credit to Vietnam. This project is significant in the context of the growing defence industry cooperation with Vietnam.

During the visit, the Defence Minister will also visit the training institutions of Vietnam at Nha Trang, including the Telecommunication University where an Army Software Park is being established with USD 5 million grant from Government of India. He will also attend a community event organised by the Embassy of India, Hanoi and interact with the Indian diaspora in Vietnam.

India and Vietnam share a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership since 2016 and defence cooperation is a key pillar of this partnership. Vietnam is an important partner in India's Act East policy and the Indo-Pacific vision, said the Ministry.

Bilateral defence engagements have expanded over a period of time to include wide-ranging contacts between the two countries, including defence policy dialogues, military-to-military exchanges, high-level visits, capacity building and training programmes, cooperation in UN Peace Keeping, ship visits and bilateral exercises.

The Defence Minister's visit on the historic occasion of 50 years of establishment of India-Vietnam Diplomatic relations and 75 years of India's Independence will further consolidate the bilateral defence cooperation and the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. (ANI)

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Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], June 5 (ANI): The Mumbai Police on Sunday lodged the First Information Report against an unknown person for sending a 'Threatening letter' to the Bollywood actor Salman Khan and his father Salim Khan.

According to the police, Salim Khan found the letter on a bench where he sits daily after jogging in the morning. He found the letter at around 7.30 AM-8.00 AM in his and Salman's name, said the police.

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As per the police, an unsigned letter issuing threats to Salman Khan and his father Salim Khan was found near the Bandra Bandstand promenade in Mumbai on Sunday.

Bandra Police has filed an FIR against an unknown person and a further probe is underway, Mumbai Police said. (ANI)

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Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], June 5 (ANI): Several scholars, and religious leaders from various faiths on Sunday unanimously condemned the recent targeted civilian killings that took place in Jammu and Kashmir.

Jammu and Kashmir Anjuman Sharie Shian organised second InterFaith Dialogue Conference-2022 with the participation of scholars and religious leaders from all the faiths.

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According to a statement, the conference is being organised by the Anjuman Sharie's Interfaith dialogue chapter that revolves around theme, "Mitigating horizontal tensions is the need of the hour".

President of Jammu and Kashmir Anjuman-E-Sharie Shian Aga Syed Hassan Mosavi said that he believes that the essence of belief in God and service to the people of God can be found in all divine religions.

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"This conference teaches us how to sit together for a dialogue according to the tenets of the Holy Quran and the way of life and conduct of the Prophet Muhammad to make a safe and sound world free from sectarianism, extremism, war and bloodshed," he said.

He added that interfaith dialogue is essential to avoid fanaticism which leads to confusion. "The selfish evil forces with vested interest promote fanaticism to divide and to create communal disharmony to fulfill their selfish desires. But interfaith dialogue provides space for people of different religions to come together and discuss their religions, clarify the doubts and promote inter-religious understanding and creates inter-religious relations, which avoids frictions between religious and religious communities."

Since we live in a multi-cultural and multi-religious society, dialogue is very essential for unity and well being, the official statement read.

"Plurality is a basic and fundamental fact of the Kashmiri society and everyone has to understand this pluralistic nature of Kashmir society. Every religion also has to be pluralistic in its own perspective and promote this pluralism among its adherents," it read.

It added that inter-faith dialogue has to contribute towards communal harmony and the welfare of humanity.

It said that a joint resolution unanimously condemned the target killings of pandit community members and non-locals and they expressed total solidarity with them.

Scholars urged for unity among communities to thwart evil designs of vested interest and called for more such interfaith dialogue across Kashmir to bridge the gaps and let the flower of Kashmir's brotherhood, amity and affinity bloom. (ANI)

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Jammu, Jun 5 (PTI) A special teachers' training programme on using art-based tools for the emotional well-being of children and enhancing their academic performance has been launched in Jammu and Kashmir, officials said on Sunday.

The Directorate of School Education of both the Kashmir and Jammu divisions collaborated with Piramal Foundation (Kaivalya Education Foundation) and Red Pencil Humanitarian Mission to launch the arts-based capacity building and training (ACBT) programme.

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"It is a theoretical base derived from the framework of collaborative for academic, social, and emotional learning that emphasises self-awareness, social awareness, relationship skills, self-management and responsible decision-making," an official said.

The aim is to improve the overall socio-emotional wellbeing of students, especially the ones who cannot express their concerns and grievances verbally, officials said.

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It was launched jointly by the Director of School Education, Jammu and Kashmir divisions, Ravi Shankar Sharma and Tasaduq Hussain Mir on Saturday.

Officials said the initiative will train 150 teachers, 75 each from Jammu and Kashmir divisions in the first phase.

On the importance of counselling students and how art therapy could equip teachers with skills to ensure the all-around development of children, Sharma said the ACBT project will be helpful in remote areas such as Poonch, Kishtwar, and Reasi.

Mir said ACBT will go a long way in helping the budding generation to administer their thoughts so that they can learn in a free and fair environment.

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Two persons apprehended with over 200 grams heroin in Mizoram. (Photo/Twitter)

Lunglei (Mizoram) [India], June 5 (ANI): In a major crackdown against the drug menace, Mizoram Police on Sunday seized 222 grams of heroin worth approximately Rs 1.11 crore in the international market from the outskirt of Sateek village in Lunglei district and apprehended two persons for the same.

The team apprehended two persons were identified as Lalhruaitluanga who is 25-year-old and Vanlalruata, 27 years old.

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"In yet another major success in recent times, yesterday night, CID (SB) Ops team seized 222 grams heroin, hidden in 17 soap cases, valued approximately Rs 111 lakhs in the international market, at the outskirt of Sateek village from the illegal possession," Mizoram Police said in a tweet.

"The accused are identified as Lalhruaitluanga (25) s/o Dailova of Lunglei venglai and Vanlalruata (27) s/o Doliana of Electric veng, Lunglei," it added.

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Police said that the officials are working to break the supply chain of drugs in Mizoram.

"We continue to work day in and day out to disrupt the supply chain in our relentless #WarOnDrugs. However, demand reduction is also equally essential with the help of other stakeholders and civil society," police further tweeted.

In another incident, Mizoram police also nabbed one person with 502.46 grams of heroin worth Rs 251 lakhs in the Hnahthial district on Friday.

"We are on duty around 24x7 everywhere to catch the criminals. In another major success in our #WarOnDrugs, yesterday night, the Hnahthial PS team seized 502.46 grams of heroin, hidden in 40 soap cases, valued at approximately Rs 251 lakhs in the international market, at Leite, Hnahthial District from the vehicle and possession of Lallianzauva (42) s/o Tlangrema (L) of Maudarh, Leite Village," Mizoram police added. (ANI)

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Chamoli (Uttarakhand) [India], June 5 (ANI): Chief Election Commissioner Rajeev Kumar on Friday trekked for 18 kilometers to the remote polling booths of Uttarakhand to assess the challenges faced by polling parties in hilly areas.

Kumar reached Dumak and Kalgoth village, the most remote polling booths of Uttarakhand located in Chamoli district.

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Speaking to ANI, the Chief Election Commissioner said that the polling parties have to walk for days to reach far-off areas.

"Polling parties have to walk three days to reach here. I wanted to visit here to understand the challenges faced by the polling personnel during elections," he said.

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Further, Kumar said that he would be visiting more such remote polling booths to understand the requirements.

"I will be visiting several remote polling booths starting from here and try to fulfill the requirements of voters in these areas," he said.

The Dumak and Kalgoth polling stations are a part of the Badrinath Assembly constituency.

Meanwhile, on Friday, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami won the Champawat bypoll by a margin of over 55,000 votes.

This was a much-needed victory for Dhami to remain Chief Minister of the state after he lost the state Assembly polls held earlier this year despite the BJP's landslide victory. (ANI)

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Muzzafarpur, June 5: In a major development in Bihar journalist Rajdev Ranjan's murder case, a witness, who was allegedly declared dead by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), reached the court on Saturday.

The woman, Badami Devi, appeared before the judge in a civil court here and claimed that the CBI had declared her dead. "Huzoor (sir), I am alive. I have been declared dead by the CBI. This has been done under a well-thought-out conspiracy," the woman told the court. The woman showed her identification proof in court including a voter ID card, and a PAN card.

The petitioner's advocate Sharad Sinha said that Badami Devi was a key witness in the case and a report filed by the CBI on May 24 declared her dead. Advocate Sinha raised further questions on CBI and called it a "big negligence" on the investigating agency's part. UP Dalit Girl Death: 13-Year-Old Was Gang-Raped, Strangulated, Post-Mortem Report Confirms.

"It is big negligence on CBI's part. What will happen if the nation's biggest investigating agency will act like this?" Sinha asked. He further stated that the CBI did not even contact the woman and declared the woman dead, moreover, a report was also submitted. The court issued a show-cause notice to the CBI over the matter.

Ranjan, the Siwan bureau chief of Hindi daily Hindustan, was shot dead in May 2017. He was gunned down by motorbike-borne criminals near the busy Station Road at Siwan in north Bihar.

Ranjan's widow Asha Ranjan had sought direction for the registration of an FIR against RJD leader Shahabuddin and Tej Pratap Yadav for "conspiracy and harbouring and sheltering the proclaimed offenders" in the murder case.

In 2017, the CBI took custody of Mohammad Shahabuddin, whose name had cropped up as an accused in the investigation. However, in March 2018, the Supreme Court had closed proceedings against Tej Pratap in connection with this case.

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Jammu (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], June 5 (ANI): Following the recent targeted killings in Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday said women and girls are being targeted out of desperation to provoke the security forces.

"They are not even sparing girls and women now. It is their desperation that they are making such killings to provoke security forces. I know the administration and security forces would do their work with promptness," Sinha said.

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On Friday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired a high-level security review meeting on Jammu and Kashmir in the wake of a series of targeted killings in the Union Territory.

The move comes in the wake of the recent killings of Kashmiri Pandits in Jammu and Kashmir. Kashmiri Pandits are holding protests in Srinagar against the killings by terrorists.

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A 36-year-old migrant Kashmiri Pandit and high school teacher Rajni Bala was shot dead by terrorists in the Kulgam district of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday.

Earlier this month, two civilians - including Kashmiri Pandit employee Rahul Bhat -- and three off-duty policemen were killed in Kashmir by the terrorists.

These deaths follow a series of killings that have been happening since August 5, 2019, the day when the Union government stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its special status and downgraded it to Union territory while simultaneously bifurcating the region into Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh UTs. (ANI)

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Mumbai, Jun 5 (PTI) In a stinging attack on the BJP-led Central government, Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut on Sunday said it wouldn't be surprising if the Enforcement Directorate issues summons against former prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru in the National Herald newspaper case and paste the notice on his memorial.

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In his weekly column published in Sena mouthpiece Saamana, Raut alleged that National Herald was like a weapon created by Nehru during the freedom struggle and not a property.

"When will traders in the present-day politics understand this?" asked Raut, who is the executive editor of Saamana, in an apparent jibe at the BJP.

The ED recently issued summons to Congress president Sonia Gandhi and her MP son Rahul Gandhi in connection with a money laundering probe. It was for alleged irregularities in party-promoted Young Indian, which owns the National Herald newspaper.

The Shiv Sena, headed by Uddhav Thackeray, shares power with NCP and Congress in Maharashtra. Raut is the chief spokesperson of Sena.

Raut stated that the National Herald newspaper started by Nehru had lost its political significance long ago but the politics over it continues.

"When Jawaharlal Nehru started this newspaper in 1937, Mahatma Gandhi, Vallabhbhai Patel and Nehru himself were its pillars. The British feared this newspaper for its factual reporting and banned it between 1942 to 45," Raut said.

The newspaper wasn't started for monetary reasons but the ED has summoned Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi on charges of money laundering, in this case, he said.

Raut stated that Nehru's soul was in the National Herald and he had told reporters never to write out of fear.

"When someone said that the (National Herald) newspaper had become a headache for Congress despite being its mouthpiece, Nehru got enraged and asked 'what do you want me to do? Call the editor and ask him to praise everyone. What is the use of the editor who only praises," Raut said quoting Nehru.

When National Herald was suffering losses, Nehru even offered to sell his house, Anand Bhavan, the Shiv Sena leader said quoting anecdotes from the book of PD Tandon, who was associated with the National Herald during Nehru's time.

He said Nehru ensured that (Purshottam Das) Tandon's telephone bills are paid on time apprehending his arrest while visiting Mumbai.

"Tandon wrote that Nehru had ensured that his (Tandon's) future bills would be reimbursed by Vijayalaxmi Pandit and Indira Gandhi (Nehru's daughter) and not by National Herald," Raut stated.

Drawing similarities between Saamana and National Herald, Raut said both the newspapers are not properties but are carriers of thoughts and principles.

Raut said he had discussed the National Herald issue with Rahul Gandhi and some Congressmen.

"The case pertains to only repaying a loan which cannot be called money laundering. It wouldn't be surprising if ED summons Nehru too in the case and pastes a notice on his memorial," he stated.

Raut said that questions were also raised over PM CARES Fund and that certain financial transactions were executed by several institutions under Sangh Parivar.

"There was no need to stretch the case this far. Congress might have made certain financial dealings to ensure that the legacy started by Nehru survived. Such transactions are made by several institutions under Sangh Parivar. Questions have also been raised over the PM Cares Fund and crores of rupees deposited in the BJP treasury," he alleged and said Nehru's National Herald has been branded as criminal.

"Some people's souls will get peace only after notices of the CBI and the ED reach Pandit Nehru," he said.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Washington [US], June 5 (ANI): Women are more frustrated than men by gendered expectations placed on them at work, according to new Cornell University research, even when those expectations appear to signal women's virtues and are seen as important for workplace advancement.

The research was published in the 'Journal of Personality and Social Psychology'.

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Both women and men face gendered pressures at work. While men are expected to display independent qualities, like being assertive, women are expected to display communal qualities, like being collaborative, prior research shows. Recent polling reveals that beliefs that women possess positive communal qualities are on the rise in the U.S., and ILR School research has found that women themselves view qualities like collaborativeness and skill at interaction as relevant to success and advancement at work.

Still, when women and men are faced with positive gendered stereotypes, women experience more frustration and less motivation to comply with the expectation than men, according to Devon Proudfoot, assistant professor of human resource studies in the ILR School and co-author of "Communal Expectations Conflict With Autonomy Motives: The Western Drive for Autonomy Shapes Women's Negative Responses to Positive Gender Stereotypes."

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"We find that one reason why women feel more frustrated than men by these positive gendered expectations is that women and men face gender stereotypes that differ in the extent to which they affirm a sense of autonomy," Proudfoot said.

"In the Western world, people tend to strive to maintain an autonomous sense of self. But while Western society is subtly communicating that an ideal self is an autonomous, independent self, society is also telling women that they should be interdependent and connected to others. We find that this conflict helps explain women's frustration toward the positive gender stereotypes they experience."

In the paper, Proudfoot and her co-author, Aaron Kay of Duke University, examined how women feel about positive gendered stereotypes in the U.S., a Western individualistic culture. Further, the duo engaged in cross-cultural comparison, finding that women in a non-Western collectivistic culture, in this case, India, do not feel the same resentment.

"Our findings provide initial evidence that culture influences the way that women and men respond to gender stereotypes," Proudfoot said. "We show that it's the interaction between cultural models of ideal selfhood and the expectations placed on women and men that shape how women and men experience gendered pressures."

Proudfoot, whose work often examines stereotyping and discrimination, as well as what motivates employee attitudes and behaviour, led participants through five studies to gauge their reactions to positive gender stereotypes. The centrepiece of each study focused on personal experience and how the participant felt as a result.

"For instance, in some studies, we ask participants to recall a time when they were expected to act a certain way because of their gender," Proudfoot said. "What we find is that women report more anger and frustration when they were expected to be collaborative or socially skilled than men experienced when they were expected to be assertive or decisive."

To further examine their theory, Proudfoot and Kay compared women and men in the U.S. with women and men in India, a country that has a collectivistic culture in which people tend to strive for social connection and interdependence with others. They found that women in India did not experience the same feelings of anger and frustration, as the positive gender stereotypes align with cultural goals.

"What I find interesting is thinking how these Western cultural ideals around autonomy and independence intersect with gender and gendered expectations," Proudfoot said. "Our research considers how people's experiences of gendered trait expectations are dependent on the cultural context they grew up in and the ideal model of self-promoted by that culture."The research suggests that complimenting women employees for being collaborative or socially skilled could backfire, she said.

"Reinforcing these types of gender stereotypes could have negative emotional and motivational consequences for women in the workplace," Proudfoot said. (ANI)

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Washington [US], June 5 (ANI): Apple is planning to launch its own search engine as it prepares for its annual WWDC event.

A tweet from writer Robert Scoble, which appears after a thread summarizing the Apple surprises he expects in the coming year, is the source of the speculation.

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According to Mashable, Scoble reportedly stated that the information is based partly on interactions with informants and partly on deduction. "This is the most costly product launch of all time", he continued.

Many have speculated that the Cupertino behemoth would eventually dip its toes in the water due to a lack of competition in the search business and a long-standing rivalry between Google and Apple.

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Although the value of Google Search is difficult to estimate due to the way Alphabet's profits are reported, we do know that it accounts for the majority of the company's ad revenue, which was USD210 billion in 2021.

If Scoble's information is correct, Apple has decided it wants a piece of the action. But why now, specifically? According to a theory, Apple believes that the iOS and Safari install bases have reached critical mass, allowing it to mount a credible challenge to Google's dominance.

As per Mashable, Apple has benefited for years from a partnership with Google that ensures Google's status as the default Safari search engine (worth an estimated USD20 billion per year).

Apple is also prohibited from releasing a standalone search tool under the terms of this agreement, according to court documents filed as part of a recent class-action lawsuit. (ANI)

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Dhaka, Jun 5 (PTI) A massive fire caused by an explosion at a private container depot in southeastern Bangladesh has killed at least 16 people and injured over 450, officials said on Sunday.

On Saturday night, the fire broke out at BM Container Depot in the Kadamrasul area in Sitakunda Upazila in Chittagong.

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At least 16 people have died in the fire and subsequent explosions at the depot in while hundreds of people, including police and fire service personnel sustained burn injuries in the incident, The Daily Star reported.

Over 450 people have been injured in this incident of which, at least 350 are at CMCH," Istakul Islam, chief of the Health & Service Department at Red Crescent Youth Chittagong was quoted as saying by the Dhaka Tribune.

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"The death toll could be more at other hospitals, Islam said.

According to fire service sources, three of their workers were also killed during the incident.

The identities of the deceased could not be known yet. PTI

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Dhaka, Jun 5 (PTI) A massive fire and a series of explosions at a private chemical container depot in southeastern Bangladesh killed at least 49 people, including nine firefighters, and injured more than 450 others, officials said on Sunday, as authorities were still struggling to extinguish the blaze.

According to doctors, the toll could rise further as many of the injured people were being treated with severe burns. The firefighters backed by army troops were yet to enter deep down the blast site to douse the fire nearly 23 hours after the fire broke out on Saturday.

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"The fire was caused by chemicals including hydrogen peroxide, making the situation difficult, fire service chief Brigadier General Mohammad Mainuddin told reporters at the scene where the firefighters were trying to extinguish the blaze amid intermittent explosions since Saturday evening.

The official expected the firefighters to put out the blaze and halt the explosions by tonight.

Also Read | Bangladesh Container Depot Fire: 45 Killed Including Nine Firefighters, Over 500 Injured in Massive Fire in Chittagong.

The disaster prompted authorities to call out army sappers to prevent the spread of chemicals in nearby canals and the coastlines of the Bay of Bengal.

Fire service officials said nine of their colleagues were killed in explosions as they rushed to the scene immediately after the blaze was reported at the BM Container Depot in Sitakunda at the outskirts of the port city of Chattogram.

This was the first time in known Bangladesh history when so many firefighters were killed in the line of duty in a single such disaster.

"So far 49 bodies arrived at the (Chattogram Medical College Hospital or CMCH) morgue, police sub-inspector at the facility Mohammad Alauddin told reporters.

Doctors at the state-run CMCH, which accommodated most of the wounded people, said the fate of over a dozen of the burn-injured patients was uncertain due to their critical wounds.

Dozens more including firefighters are being treated at the Chattogram Combined Military Hospital (CMH) while Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina ordered military helicopters to bring the critically wounded patients to Dhaka for better treatment.

Hospitals in the area are overwhelmed, with crowds of people waiting in hallways for treatment.

Pictures of the aftermath showed the twisted remains of metal shipping containers and the collapsed roof of a warehouse.

Chattogram Divisional Commissioner (DC) Ashraf Uddin said that families of the deceased would be given USD 560 (Taka 50,000) by the DC office, and USD 224 (Taka 20,000) would be given to the families of the injured, the Daily Star newspaper reported.

Bangladesh's parliament, which met on its maiden budget session on Sunday, adopted a condolence motion over the tragedy.

Officials and witnesses speculated that the firefighters were initially unaware that the depot stored chemicals to cause blasts while video footage which went viral showed a teenage boy doing Facebook live and moments later virtually vanishing alongside the firemen.

"The deafening explosions turned the sky a blazing orange throughout the night, a resident in the neighbourhood told a TV channel adding that the explosions threw several people metres away from where they were standing.

The residents said the explosions rocked the neighbourhood within a nearly four-kilometre radius around the inland container depot which has been operating since May 2011.

A pungent odour in the air forced rescuers to cover their noses in masks while they also complained of itching eyes apparently due to chemicals.

Officials said the depot -- a site with 21 acres of land -- stored around 4,000 containers, many filled with garments destined for Western retailers.

In a statement, Mujibur Rahman, director of the BM Container Depot, said it was not clear what caused the fire. "But I think the fire started from the container".

"Arrangements are being made to ensure that the injured get the best treatment. We will bear the entire cost of the treatment. Those who were injured in the accident will be given the maximum compensation," Rahman was quoted as saying by The Daily Star newspaper.

"In addition, we will take responsibility for all the families of all the victims," he added.

Bangladesh has a history of industrial disasters. Past industrial tragedies have often been attributed to safety lapses.

Last year, a fire engulfed a food and drink factory in Bangladesh, killing at least 52 people.

In February 2019, a blaze ripped through a 400-year-old area cramped with apartments, shops and warehouses in the oldest part of Dhaka and killed at least 67 people.

In 2012, about 117 workers died when they were trapped behind locked exits in a garment factory in Dhaka. The country's worst industrial disaster occurred the following year, when the Rana Plaza garment factory outside Dhaka collapsed, killing more than 1,100 people.

Another fire in Old Dhaka in a house illegally storing chemicals killed at least 123 people in 2010.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Anchorage, Jun 5 (AP) A climber has died after collapsing while attempting to summit Alaska's Denali mountain, the National Park Service said Saturday.

The climber, 48-year-old Fernando Birman of Stockton, New Jersey, collapsed Friday evening at an elevation of 19,700 feet while on an attempt to reach the top of the 20,310-foot peak, the park service said.

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The park service statement said Birman's guides initiated CPR but he never regained his pulse.

Birman was part of a 12-member guided tour that began their ascent on May 22, said Sharon Stiteler, a spokesperson for Denali National Park.

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After his death, Birman's body was moved to a plateau and taken down from the mountain by helicopter before being sent to the Alaska medical examiner's office late Friday night.

The park statement said the cause of death was unknown but was consistent with sudden cardiac arrest.

There have been 129 climbing deaths at the park since 1932, Stiteler said. (AP)

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Dharamshala (Himachal Pradesh) [India], June 5 (ANI): Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama has visited the main Buddhist temple Tsuglagkhang to participate in the annual "Mani Dhondrup' prayers in Dharamshala.

Led by the monks of Namgyal Monastery, the prayer ceremony was attended by hundreds of people including women and children.

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The 14th Dalai lama visited here on Saturday to bless millions of holy 'Mani pills" which will be distributed among people during the conclusion of a six-day pooja here.

"At this time, we have Avalokiteshvara prayer offering for six to seven days. For this occasion, the Dalai lama has come. He will bless millions of pills which would be distributed across the world," Thubten Pema Lama, director of a Buddhist monastery in Dharamshala said on Saturday.

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He added that this is very significant because due to COVID-19 pandemic, the prayers could not happen.

"This is the second day of six-days' pooja an they will distribute the polls on the last day. We consider it holy pills and we call it Mani pills," theb director added.

Last month, a long-life prayer was offered for Dalai Lama by the members of the Sakya Tradition of Tibetan Buddhism at Tsuglagkhang temple in Himachal Pradesh's Dharamshala.

The offering ceremony was led by the hierarchs of both palaces-- the Dolma Phodrang and Phuntsok Phodrang-- headed by Sakya Dagtri Rinpoche.

After the text of the long-life prayer was recited, statues of the deities of longevity, White Tara, Amitayus and Ushnishavijaya, were presented to the 14th Dalai Lama (His Holiness), and he was offered a bowl full of long-life pills by Rinpoche.

"Thank you for this long-life offering. If I don't live long, there's a chance the Tibetan people's wishes and aspirations will not be fulfilled. For this reason, I pray that I will live to be more than a hundred and I ask you too to make the same prayer," Dalai Lama told the congregation.

"We Tibetans are upholders of Buddhist traditions including the Vajrayana. You too preserve the teachings of both Sutra and Tantra. I request you to keep these traditions alive," Lama added.The long-life offering ceremony was also attended by the incumbent Sakya Throne-holder, the Sakya Trizin, Gyana Vajra Rinpoche, and the previous Throne-holder, Ratna Vajra Rinpoche. (ANI)

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Dhaka [Bangladesh], June 5 (ANI): Marking the 33rd anniversary of the Tiananmen Square massacre, Swadhinata Sangram Parishad on Saturday organized a protest in Dhaka against China for killing its own citizens.

The protest, which started at 5 pm at Jatrabari near Dhaka Chattogram Highway and continued till 6:30 pm, was attended by 500 people. The protest highlighted China's inhuman activity that took place on June 4, 1989, to the international community.

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Various socio-cultural organizations had also staged the demonstrations in Dhaka as well as Narayanganj city in Bangladesh. The protesting organizations condemned and demanded justice for the genocide carried out by the Chinese communist government on pro-democracy students in their country.

On behalf of civil society-conscious civil society, speakers said that on June 4, 1969, in Tiananmen Square, China, when the country's democracy and peace-loving people protested against the Chinese government's repression, the Chinese army carried out indiscriminate genocide against civilians.

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Moreover, Muktijoddha Mancha held a demonstration and human chain program in front of the National Museum in Shahbag, Bangladesh on Saturday. During the demonstrations, about 400 people were present.

The program started at 3 in the afternoon and continued till 6:30 in the evening. About a thousand visitors were aware of the program and condemned China's actions.

Notably, the Tiananmen Massacre took place after the peaceful gatherings of students, workers, and others in Beijing's Tiananmen Square and other Chinese cities in April 1989, calling for freedom of expression, accountability, and an end to corruption. The government responded to the intensifying protests in late May 1989 by declaring martial law.

On June 3 and 4, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) soldiers fired upon and killed untold numbers of peaceful protesters and bystanders. In Beijing, some citizens attacked army convoys and burned vehicles in response to the military's violence.

In that massacre, 10 to 15 thousand people were killed by the army of the Chinese government.

Following the killings, the government carried out a nationwide crackdown and arrested thousands of people on "counter-revolution" and other criminal charges, including arson and disrupting social order.

The government has never accepted responsibility for the massacre or held any officials legally accountable for the killings.

Chinese authorities, over the last year, have increased the harassment and persecution of activists for commemorating June 4, 1989, Tiananmen Massacre, Human Rights Watch (HRW) said. The Chinese government should acknowledge and take responsibility for the mass killing of pro-democracy demonstrators, it added.

A few months ago, Hong Kong's universities removed the Tiananmen memorials. In December 2021, the University of Hong Kong removed "Pillar of Shame," a large sculpture commemorating the massacre victims, from the university premises. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on a diplomatic visit to Slovakia and Czech Republic (Photo Credit: Twitter)

Prague [Czech Republic], June 5 (ANI): External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who is on a visit to Slovakia and the Czech Republic from June 2 to 6 met Czech Republic Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jan Lipavsky to discuss bilateral ties between the two nations on Sunday.

The discussions involved talks on taking the European Union-India partnership forward and steady progress in bilateral cooperation.

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Taking to Twitter, S Jaishankar called his meeting with the Czech Foreign Minister warm and productive.

"As Czech Republic takes over EU Presidency, discussed taking India-EU partnership forward," he tweeted.

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The ministers of the two nations focussed on steady progress in bilateral cooperation, including in trade, defense, S&T, and people-to-people exchanges, and highlighted the trade level crossing USD 2 billion.

Moreover, the foreign ministers also exchanged views on the repercussions of the Ukraine conflict and the Indo-Pacific.

Jaishankar's visit to Slovakia and the Czech Republic is to impart further momentum to bilateral relations with the two Central European countries.He began his engagements in Prague by meeting a delegation of Czech members of the European Parliament (MEPs).

The EAM also held discussions on India's ties with the EU and the Czech Republic, the Indo-Pacific, food and energy security, and digital cooperation.

In addition to meeting the political leadership, Jaishankar will also interact with a cross-section of the diaspora during his visit to the central European country, including Indian students in the Czech Republic and energy security and digital cooperation. (ANI)

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Islamabad, Jun 5 (PTI) Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday stressed the need for initiation of a "grand dialogue" by all the stakeholders over vital sectors of the economy to move ahead on the path of progress and prosperity, as the cash-strapped nation was seeking international aid to support its failing economy.

Addressing a gathering at the inauguration ceremony of Indus Hospital in Lahore, Sharif said a consensus should be developed over the national economy in such a manner that it should not be disrupted with changes of governments", state-run Associated Press of Pakistan reported.

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There is a need for initiation of a grand dialogue by all the stakeholders over vital sectors of the economy to move ahead on the path of progress and prosperity, he said.

He opined that there were certain sectors of the economy like IT and industrialisation through which the country could move ahead.

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Pakistan has been witnessing a shaky economy for quite some time. It repeatedly has been seeking international aid to support its failing economy.

The talks with the International Monetary Fund are being held in the Qatari capital Doha.

The prime minister underlined that those stakeholders should think "above themselves and their personal likes and dislikes" and accord top priority to the progress and prosperity of the nation.

He said no one should have permission to do politics on health, agriculture and other vital sectors.

"You need to see the bigger picture, you will have to kill your ego for the nation's prosperity," he added.

The "grand dialogue" on economy mirrors the premier's calls for a "charter of economy" he has made in the past, most recently on May 27.

He lamented that he made the proposal "nearly four years ago but my proposal was rejected with disdain".

He had said the charter was imperative so that no government could use the economy for the sake of politics, adding that he would reach out to all political parties for dialogue on the matter.

The prime minister maintained that a "country cannot survive on debt".

Comparing Pakistan's export volume with Bangladesh, he said its annual exports now touched the USD 40 billion-mark while Pakistan's was USD 27-28 billion annually.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Islamabad, Jun 5 (PTI) Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday condemned the "hurtful" remarks by a ruling party leader in India against the prophet of Islam.

"I condemn in strongest possible words hurtful comments of India's BJP leader about our beloved Prophet (PBUH), Shehbaz tweeted.

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The prime minister also alleged that the current Indian government was trampling religious freedom and especially the rights of Muslims.

"Have said it repeatedly India under Modi is trampling religious freedoms & persecuting Muslims. World should take note & severely reprimand India. Our love for the Holy Prophet (PBUH) is supreme, he said.

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He went on to add: "All Muslims can sacrifice their life for the Love & Respect of their Holy Prophet (PBUH)."

Pakistan's Foreign Office also retweeted the brief statement by the Prime Minister.

In New Delhi, the BJP suspended its national spokesperson Nupur Sharma and expelled its Delhi media head Naveen Kumar Jindal after their controversial remarks against the Prophet, as it sought to defuse a row over the issue.

Amid protests by Muslim groups over the remarks, the party also issued a statement aimed at assuaging the concerns of minorities and distancing itself from these members, asserting that it respects all religions and strongly denounces the insult of any religious personality.

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Islamabad [Pakistan], June 5 (ANI): Pakistan's Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) requested the court to allow the arrest of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his son and Punjab province Chief minister Hamza Shehbaz in a Rs 16 billion money-laundering case.

However, the court extended their interim bail until June 11.

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During the hearing, the FIA's lawyer argued that the duo was "not part of the investigation". However, Hamza's counsel rejected the claims, accusing the agency of misleading the court as the "two had been a part of the investigations".

The counsel for the Sharif family, Mohammad Amjad Pervaiz said that the investigation has been going on for one and a half years but still the FIA was unable to present any evidence against his clients, Geo TV reported.

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As Amjad Pervaiz started presenting his arguments for the confirmation of bail in the money laundering case, both the PML-N leaders left the court.

The counsel highlighted that the FIA interrogated the father-son duo when both of them were in jail.

The judge ordered all other stakeholders to present their arguments at the next hearing, which is scheduled to take place on June 11; directing the FIA to present a report on the non-bailable warrants against Suleman Shahbaz, Tahir Naqvi, and Malik Maqsood.

On the other hand, during the hearing in Ramzan Sugar Mills and Ashiyana Housing case, Pakistan Prime Minister requested the judge to present arguments himself and sought time for it, reported Geo TV.

The case was filed by National Accountability Bureau (NAB) in an accountability court. During the hearing, prosecutor Asadullah Malik produced witnesses who presented records related to the corruption cases while SSP Legal Lahore Police sought more time from the court to present complete records.

After hearing all the arguments, the hearing was adjourned till June 20.

It is worth mentioning that Shehbaz has already been indicted in the Ashiyana Housing reference, according to geo TV.

Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) in December 2021 had submitted the challan against Shehbaz and Hamza before the special court for their alleged involvement in laundering an amount of Rs 16 billion in the sugar scam case.

The FIA report added that the amount was kept in "hidden accounts" and given to Shehbaz in a personal capacity.

The FIA had booked them in the case under sections of the Pakistan Penal Code, the Prevention of Corruption Act, and the Anti-Money Laundering Act in November 2020. (ANI)

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Colombo, Jun 5 (PTI) The 21st Amendment to the Constitution to empower the Sri Lankan Parliament over the executive president will be submitted to the Cabinet for approval on Monday, Justice Minister Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe said on Sunday.

The 21st Amendment is expected to annul the 20A to the Constitution, which gives unfettered powers to President Gotabaya Rajapaksa after abolishing the 19th Amendment that will strengthen Parliament.

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Rajapakshe said that a special discussion on the matter was held with the backing of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa last week. He along with Prime

Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and Foreign minister G L Peiris participated in the discussion, Lanka First, an online news portal reported.

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Rajapakshe said that the 21st Amendment to the Constitution, including proposals submitted by political parties and various other parties, will be submitted to the Cabinet for approval on Monday, the portal reported.

He said that the draft of the amendment will be gazetted after receiving the approval of the Cabinet.

Rajapakshe said that he expects to make a statement in Parliament on the 21st Amendment to the Constitution next week.

Prime Minister Wickremesinghe last week batted for the 21st Amendment to the Constitution, saying it will curb the president's unlimited powers while enhancing the role of Parliament in governing the debt-ridden country which is also facing an unprecedented political turmoil.

The powerful Rajapaksa family tightened their grip on power after their massive victory in the general elections in August 2020, which allowed them to amend the Constitution to restore presidential powers and install close family members in key positions.

The constitutional reform was a major plank of the agreement between Wickremesinghe and Rajapaksa when he took over the job of prime minister on May 12.

Sri Lanka has been grappling with unprecedented economic turmoil since its independence from Britain in 1948.

Sri Lanka's economic crisis has created political unrest with protesters demanding the President's resignation.

Under the 21A, the President will be held accountable to the Parliament.

The Cabinet of Ministers is also accountable to Parliament. The National Council is also accountable to Parliament. Fifteen Committees and Oversight Committees are accountable to Parliament.

Sri Lanka in mid-April declared that it was unable to meet its foreign debt payments and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) classified Sri Lanka's debt as unsustainable. Therefore debt restructuring was key for an IMF programme.

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Vice President Venkaiah Naidu today led delegation level talks with the Prime Minister & Minister of Interior of Qatar, Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani in Doha. (Twitter)

Doha [Qatar], June 5 (ANI): Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, who is on three-nation tour of Gabon, Senegal and Qatar, reiterated that India will further strengthen its historic friendship with Qatar and agreed that a high-level engagement should be sustained, including an early visit of Qatar's Amir, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to the country.

He reached Doha on Saturday on the third leg of his three-nation tour accompanied by a high-level delegation including Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Dr Bharati Pravin Pawar and three Members of Parliament, Sushil Kumar Modi, Vijay Pal Singh Tomar and P Ravindhranath.

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Naidu was warmly received by Soltan bin Saad Al-Muraikhi, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and accorded a ceremonial welcome with a Guard of Honour upon arrival, read the Ministry of External Affairs press release.

On Sunday, the Vice President called on Father of Qatar's Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. Later, he met the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani at Amiri Diwan.

Also Read | 'Views of Fringe Elements': India on Qatar's Response to Comments on Prophet Muhammad (Check Tweet).

Minister of Public Health Dr Hanan Mohammad Al Kuwari and Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Soltan bin Saad Al-Muraikhi were also present during the meeting.

Both sides positively assessed the developments in bilateral relations and Naidu expressed happiness at the first-ever visit at the Vice President level from India to Qatar.

Both sides expressed satisfaction at the continued engagement at the highest levels between both countries since the landmark visits of Qatar's Amir to India in 2015 and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Qatar in 2016.

They agreed that high-level engagement should be sustained, including through an early visit of Qatar's Amir to India. Both sides also looked forward to the convening of the Joint Commission between the two sides at the Foreign Minister level later this year. Both sides also agreed to promote bilateral parliamentary exchanges, added the release.

Vice President Naidu reiterated the high importance attached by India to close and friendly relations with Qatar and the commitment to deepen multifaceted bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, energy, food security, defence, technology, culture, education, health, media and people to people contacts.

He thanked the Qatari leadership for taking great care of the Indian community. On his part Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani recalled the historic relations between both countries which are based on mutual trust and appreciated the contribution of the Indian community in the development of Qatar, said the release.

An understanding has been reached to set up an ICCR Chair of Indian studies at Qatar University. ANI and Qatar News Agency have also agreed to enhance bilateral media cooperation.

Both sides expressed strong commitment to further enhance bilateral trade and investment cooperation. Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani asked Naidu about sectors for more investment opportunities in India.

Naidu invited the Qatari side to explore the significant opportunities in a range of sectors including infrastructure, connectivity both physical and digital, energy, defence and hospitality.

The Qatar side also invited Indian entities to look for opportunities in sectors like education, pharmaceuticals and healthcare in Qatar.

Both sides discussed the impact of recent global developments on food and energy security. They renewed their long-term commitment to energy partnership. Naidu further assured the Qatari leadership of India's assistance in meeting Qatar's food security.

Meanwhile, Naidu will address an India-Qatar Business Forum jointly organized by FICCI, CII and ASSOCHAM, along with Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Leading businessmen from both India and Qatar are expected to participate in the Business Forum.

A Start Up Bridge between Invest India and Invest Qatar will be inaugurated by Vice President Naidu during the Forum. It is hoped that the Forum will result in new networking opportunities for trade and investment between both sides. Qatar's FDI in India is in excess of USD 450 million and there is great potential for increasing these investments, said the release.

Invest India and Investment Promotion Agency of Qatar have reached an understanding on cooperation to promote two-way investments between both countries. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Chennai, June 5: The Tamil Nadu health department has commenced preemptive action on the rising Covid-19 cases following the Centre's letter to take guard in the matter.

The number of Covid positive cases are witnessing a steady increase in Tamil Nadu with the number of cases increasing to 714 cases on June 4 from 335 cases on May 27. Jammu and Kashmir Killings: AAP To Protest Against Kashmiri Pandit Killings at Jantar Mantar Today.

Tamil Nadu health secretary J. Radhakrishnan in a letter to the district collectors of the state informed them that the rise in the Covid cases in family clusters was an indicator of the waning immunity. He directed the district collectors to take measures for the people to adhere to Covid protocols.

The health secretary called upon the collectors to ensure that people wear masks, maintain safe distancing and sanitation of hands regularly, and wash with soap water.

State health minister, Ma Subramanian while speaking to IANS said, "The increase in the number of Covid-19 cases is a matter of concern and the health department has already directed all the 38 district collectors to ensure that the people adhere to Covid-19 protocols. People must also see to it that they are taking Covid-19 vaccinations."

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 05, 2022 10:08 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
New Delhi, June 5: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that India has achieved the target of 10 per cent ethanol blending in petrol ahead of schedule. Prime Minister Modi was speaking at a programme on 'Save Soil Movement' at Vigyan Bhawan here.

'Save Soil Movement' is a global movement to increase awareness about deteriorating soil health and bring about a conscious response to improve it. The movement was started by Sadhguru in March 2022, who embarked on a 100-day motorcycle journey passing through 27 countries and June 5 marks the 75th day of the 100 day journey.

The Prime Minister said, "Today India has achieved the target of 10 per cent ethanol blending in petrol. You will also feel proud to know that India has reached this target five months ahead of schedule." PM Modi Says 'India Making Multi-faceted Efforts for Environmental Conservation'.

"We had set a target to get 40 per cent of our installed power generation capacity from non-fossil-fuel based sources. India has achieved this target nine years ahead of schedule," the Prime Minister said. Prime Minister Modi also informed the audience that today the country's solar energy capacity has increased by about 18 times.

Talking about 'natural farming', the Prime Minister said that in this year's Budget, the government has decided to encourage natural farming in the villages situated on the banks of Ganga.

"We will make a large corridor of natural farming, which will not only make our farms chemical free and will also give new strength to the Namami Gange campaign," he said.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 05, 2022 01:02 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
World Environment Day is the annual celebration focused on helping people take an active interest in saving the environment and making it more hospitable for our future generations. World Environment Day 2022 will be celebrated on June 5. With a theme of Living sustainably in harmony with nature, World Environment Day 2022 celebrations are sure to be focused on helping each and everyone to choose more sustainable practices in their everyday life. One easy way of doing this is by sharing Tips and Tricks on Sustainable living, World Environment Day 2022 Quotes, Happy World Environment Day wishes and messages, World Environment Day 2022 Greetings, Happy World Environment Day 2022 WhatsApp stickers and Facebook Status Pictures with family and friends. World Environment Day 2022 Date & Theme: Know History, Eco Day Slogan, Objective And Significance of The Global Celebration.

World Environment Day celebration has been a significant annual event. The United Nations considers it the principal vehicle to encourage sustainable living and educate people on simple switches that can make them environmentally friendly. While it is crucial to ensure that corporations and organizations are doing all they can to reduce their carbon footprint and find feasible and safe ways of waste disposal. Various individual steps also need to be taken to help the cause. And considering the gravity of the situation, every step counts.

World Environment Day offers the perfect stage for people to take up the responsibility of being more environmentally friendly and ensuring we include sustainable practices in our daily life. As we prepare to celebrate World Environment Day 2022, here are some Tips and Tricks on Sustainable living, World Environment Day 2022 Quotes, Happy World Environment Day wishes and messages, World Environment Day 2022 Greetings, Happy World Environment Day 2022 WhatsApp stickers and Facebook Status Pictures that you can share online with family and friends.

World Environment Day (Photo Credits: File Image)

Happy World Environment Day (File Image)

Happy World Environment Day Messages (Photo Credits: File Image)

Happy World Environment Day Messages (Photo Credits: File Image)

World Environment Day greetings (Photo Credits: File Image)

World Environment Day 2022 Wishes: Images, Quotes, Greetings and Sayings To Celebrate Eco Day

We hope that this World Environment Day 2022, you are inspired to take that first step towards a more sustainable life and continue to walk on this path. Happy World Environment Day 2022!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 05, 2022 07:17 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
According to Mullah Janan Sayq, head of the State Ministry of Disaster Management's Emergency Operations Center, the firefighters were dispatched to the area to contain the situation but to no avail. The reason the firefighters were unable to douse the fire was the lack of advanced equipment.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday said that the BJP government has failed in giving security to Kashmiri Pandits.
Assam | NIA filed a chargesheet against 6 accused persons related to human trafficking of Rohingyas & Bangladeshi Muslims into India, at NIA Special Court, Guwahati. All the accused were involved in organising human trafficking of Rohingyas & Bangladeshi minor girls & women: NIA pic.twitter.com/kwF3tDg58m ANI (@ANI) June 5, 2022

(SocialLY brings you all the latest breaking news, viral trends and information from social media world, including Twitter, Instagram and Youtube. The above post is embeded directly from the user's social media account and LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body. The views and facts appearing in the social media post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY, also LatestLY does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.)
Manila, June 5: Authorities in the Philippines on Sunday raised the alert level for the Bulusan volcano after it spewed a grey plume about a kilometre high into the sky.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said the "phreatic eruption" occurred around 10.37 a.m., and lasted approximately 17 minutes. Volcano Eruption in Tonga Causes Tsunami Warning, Check Tweets

Ashfall was reported in towns near the volcano, located in Sorsogon province, southeast of Manila, Xinhua news agency quoted the Institute as saying.

"Alert level one is now raised over Bulusan volcano, which means that it is currently in an abnormal condition," it said, warning of "increased possibilities of sudden and hazardous phreatic eruptions".

The phreatic eruption is a "steam-driven explosion that occurs when water beneath the ground or surface is directly heated by hot rocks or new volcanic deposits or indirectly by magma or magmatic gas".

Before the eruption, the Institute said it recorded 77 volcanic earthquakes in the past 24 hours.

The institute prohibited people from entering the 4-km danger zone and urged residents of villages in the extended danger zone to be vigilant.

"People living within valleys and along the river and stream channels, especially on the southeast, southwest and northwest sector of the edifice, should be vigilant against sediment-laden stream flows in the event of heavy and prolonged rainfall should a phreatic eruption occur," the Institute warned.

It also warned airplanes to avoid flying close to the volcano's summit.

Bulusan is one of the Philippines' most active volcanoes.

In January 2018, the volcano spewed ash about 2.5 km high into the sky.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 05, 2022 03:17 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
A three month suspended sentence was handed down to a woman who was caught with 1,500 of drugs.

Joanna Bednarz, 35, of 18 The Birches, Portarlington admitted having the drugs at the house on November 19 last year.

She is charged with having amphetamines for sale or supply at the property.

Sgt JJ Kirby told the court the home of the accused was searched under warrant and there was 1,500 of drugs were found. Gardai also discovered a weighing scales and deal bags, he said. The woman has no previous convictions, added Sgt Kirby.

Solicitor Barry Fitzgerald said his client was pleading guilty to the charges. He said she is a 35 year old single mother from Poland who is the sole carer for her young son who has special needs. She had worked for ten years in a clothing company but hadnt worked since taking up her role as full time carer, he explained.

He said she began abusing drugs and the addiction escalated. The drugs she had were for her and her friends, he said. The issue arose out of a drug habit, he said. Since being arrested she has attended with her GP and has provided a urine sample to show she is drug free, said Mr Fitzgerald.

Judge Miriam Walsh described it as a substantial amount of drugs. She fined the woman 500 and handed down a three month sentence which she suspended for 12 months.
Glanbia Ireland employees in Laois and elsewhere around the country are teaming up with family, friends and their wider network in an all-out effort to cycle, walk, run and swim 30,000 km in one week and raise much-needed funds for three very worthy charities.

The Glanbia 300 fundraising drive runs from June 6 to 12. The event encourages employees to take up exercise and promotes physical well being, while raising over 290,000 for local and national charities since it first began eight years ago.

This years chosen charities are Focus Ireland, Carlow Kilkenny Homecare Team and The Ford Counselling and Psychotherapy Centre in Wexford. Employees will up their step count throughout Glanbia 300 and the key fundraising event again this year is a group cycle from Ballyragget in Kilkenny to Wexford on Friday, June 10. The group will stay overnight in Wexford and return to Ballyragget the next day.

Jim ONeill, Glanbia 300 spokesman, says the event helps promote health and wellbeing within the company and also delivers on Glanbia Irelands Living Proof sustainability strategy commitment to supporting its employees, suppliers, customers and consumers and the communities in which they live and work.

Weve set some ambitious targets yet again this year. Were asking each and every one of Glanbias 2,000 plus employees to cycle, walk, run, jog or swim 15 kilometres between June 6 and 12. That way, our 30,000 km target will be met.

Were also hoping to raise 50,000 for our chosen charities, each of which does incredible work in our communities on a local and national level. Donations can be made on iDonate and were asking everyone who can to dig deep.

Niall Gaffney, Corporate Partnerships Manager, Focus Ireland said: This is the first year weve partnered with Glanbia Ireland, and we are delighted to have been chosen as one of their charity partners. Focus Ireland is driven by the fundamental belief that homelessness is wrong and is entirely preventable. We work to support people who are at risk of or who are currently experiencing homelessness through 90 services across Ireland. Our support of these families, young people and children is made possible through the support we receive from companies like Glanbia Ireland - for which we are extremely grateful.

Catherine Quinlan, Nurse Manager with Carlow-Kilkenny Homecare Team, said: Demand for our voluntary services continues to grow and were very thankful to Glanbia Ireland, a company which has deep roots in this region, for choosing us. Their support raises awareness of our palliative care services for patients with cancer at all stages of their disease, as well as helping fund our service.

Viv Rooney, Manager of The Ford Counselling and Psychotherapy Centre, said: Our professional service is based on need and we provide Affordable Services to all. Glanbias assistance will help our compassionate team of professional therapists support individuals and families presenting with psychological and emotional issues in a safe and comfortable environment from our locations in Wexford town, Gorey, Enniscorthy and New Ross. This fundraiser will also help raise our profile among people of Co. Wexford who need our support.

Donations are accepted now on: https://www.idonate.ie/ fundraiser/11435166_glanbia- 300---2022.html
The settlement status of polluting communities in Mountmellick that rely on septic tanks for sewerage needs to be clarified if they are to be included in new 50 grant scheme for sewerage upgrade.

Cllr Paddy Bracken, Fianna Fail, called for clarity after he tabled a motion at a recent meeting with Laois County Council officials.

He asked if the local authority and Irish Water provide a public sewer network for Wolfe Tone Street, New Road, Chapel Street, Garoon, Pond Lane and other areas throughout the town that are not connected to the main sewer.

Its a disgrace in this day and age. There are 50 or 60 houses in the area I live (in Mountmellick), with now sewerage, he said.

He referred to a new 50 million scheme announced by the Minister for Housing Darragh OBrien. He said it referred to settlements that do not have access to public waste water.

He asked management: Is an area of 50 houses a settlement?

He was of the view that such an area should qualify. He added that further building is stifled due to the lack of

Director of Services, Donal Brennan, said Cllr Bracken had made a very valid reply. He said the possibility that they could qualify would be clarified by the councils water services Department.

Mr. Trevor Hennessy, A/S.E., Water Services, replied to the motion that the responsibility for new foul water sewerage schemes lies with Irish Water, subject to the normal planning considerations.

He added that other avenues for new sewers include developer-led sewers and Group Sewerage Schemes, both of which are subject to the Irish Water connection processes.

Cllr Bracken said he was disappointed with the engineer's reply group schemes are not financially viable because they are very expensive.

Ultimately, he said houses in Mountmellick that are not connected to the the public sewer are causing pollution.

The issue was raised at the recent Borris-in-Ossory Mountmellick Municipal District meeting.
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Johnny Gogan, the writer-director of two recent Netflix acquired film titles Black Ice and Hubert Butler Witness to the Future, has been branching out into the novel world.



The Dromahair-based writer has been receiving a positive response to his new novel Station to Station.



The book is set largely in Spain in 2008. It is the eve of the Financial Crash that will befall both Ireland and Spains property-charged economies. The protagonist Jack Lennon, a poet turned diplomat, is posted to Spain for his first diplomatic posting. Things go awry when the government Minister he is shadowing, John Paul Grealish, goes missing.

Declan Burke, in his Irish Times review, writes that what follows is a delightfully dry take on the spy novel - while John Le Carres spies operate along Moscow Rules, Irish diplomats follow Lambay Rules, according to which anything that happens east of Lambay Island is fair game - and Jack Lennon is terrific company as he goes ricocheting around southern Spain as a self-styled Don Quixote on another wild goose chase.

Author Johnny Gogan

Author Martina Devlin has identified in her cover note for the novel a gripping storyline.

Johnny Gogan tells the Leitrim Observer, the book evokes a time of political and collective turmoil; a time of grotesque, unbelievable, bizarre and unprecedented events. Journalists and academics have written about the Financial Crash of 2008, but fiction has approached the subject sparingly.

This is Johnnys second novel. Gogan's Love Song to a Bicycle film will receive its national premiere at the Galway Film Fleadh in July.

Station to Station is available in The Reading Room, Carrick; Liber in Sligo and in local Dromahair shops. The perfect pick up for Summer!
RATHKEALE has received a major boost following the official opening of a new multi-million euro facility by Formula Management Systems (FMS).

The company, which is a sister company of Glenstal Foods, has invested 3m in the facility which is located at the former Engine Innovate building in the town.

FMS, which produces high quality Dairy ingredients for the animal feed industry, was established in 2006 and the decision to expand into a larger premises was made in 2020 with work beginning on the new facility in Rathkeale last September.

The Mayor of the city and county of Limerick, Cllr Daniel Butler, attended the official opening of the new facility which was performed by Minister of State Patrick O'Donovan.

"This event is a testament to the vision of Liam Liddy and all the team at FMS and the significant investment by the company, supported by Enterprise Ireland, is a vote of confidence in the Limerick region," said the Limerick TD.

Richard Walsh, CEO of FMS, added: "Our substantial investment and expansion reflects our intention to grow this business and provide a high quality and secure manufacturing facility for the production of Dairy-based animal feed ingredients. Through our dedication to quality and traceability, we have become an important resource to both the Infant Formula and Dairy ingredients sector."

He went on to thank staff at the company and Enterprise Ireland for it's support in helping it realise it's expansion plans.

The FMS facility in Rathkeale is a designated Category 3 facility and all production is exclusively destined for the animal feed industry.
THE local authority has been strongly criticised and labeled as backward after members agreed to formally request that chimney stacks be included as a condition of planning for all new houses.

The recommendation  from the Economic Development, Enterprise and Planning Strategic Policy Committee  calls for planning regulations to be changed and the Minister for Housing, Darragh OBrien, will now be written to.

Opposing the proposal, which came before the May meeting of the council, Cllr Sean Hartigan said it was backward.

We have droughts, hurricanes and flooding  last year 59.1million people were displaced because of climate change and we want to burn fossil fuels  can we get anymore backward than that?, commented the Green Party councillor who added the recommendation was absolute nonsense.

Cllr Sarah Kiely disagreed saying such a change is needed to help those who are experiencing fuel poverty and who cannot afford to pay for gas and electricity,

Cllr Stephen Keary, who proposed the recommendation at the SPC, said he strongly believes chimneys are needed for use in emergencies  particularly in rural areas.

I see the situation whereby people cannot go out and buy expensive fuel such as gas or electricity  they are still depending on solid fuel appliances, he said adding he was without power for several hours last Christmas during a storm and that he would have had no way of heating his home if he did not have a solid fuel stove.

What in the name of god is wrong with this? he asked adding that nobody was saying the chimneys have to be used.

Abbeyfeale-based councillor, Liam Galvin, told the meeting he has an air-to-water heating system at his home and that he too experienced problems last Christmas due to a power outage.

I had no other source of heating in the house, I had no other way of preparing grub in the house, he told his colleagues adding that he fully supports the proposed recommendation.

We need to be realistic here. This is only in the eventuality of a an emergency, we are proposing that we go back to the ages of cutting turf again, he said.

Cllr Galvin said he believes the recommendation makes common sense given the impact that the war in Ukraine has had on fuel prices in recent months.
A VERDICT of accidental death was recorded at the inquest of a pensioner who passed away a number of weeks after he was involved in a road traffic collision.

The man, aged in his 80s, died in University Hospital Limerick on a date in 2019. Limerick Coroners Court was told he was involved in a single vehicle road traffic collision on a road near his home.

The investigating garda said they assisted the man on the afternoon of the accident and he was taken by air ambulance to University Hospital Limerick.

He got up at 4am that morning. He normally got up at 5am. His wife wanted to drive him but he insisted, saying: Im old enough, read out the garda from his deposition.

The coroners court heard that the deceased was taking a lot of medication for Parkinsons, heart disease and diabetes.

He was agitated that morning and concerned about getting jobs done. He was on his way to buy stamps to post letters at the time of the accident. After the incident he faced a long road to recovery but took a turn for the worse a number of weeks later and died.

Pathologist Dr Gabor Laskai said he died as a result of the car accident in which he suffered serious injuries including fractures to his spine and head. He added that the deceased had also developed pneumonia.

Limerick coroner John McNamara asked Dr Laskai if there was any evidence to suggest the pensioner suffered a heart attack or stroke. Dr Laskai said no.

Mr McNamara said there was no medical reason, or issue with the vehicle, to explain why he lost control.

He may have fallen asleep or taken his eyes off the road for a second but we are just surmising. There were no other vehicles involved and while people stopped to help they didnt see the accident. The appropriate finding is accidental death. Unfortunately, that doesnt fill in the blanks for you, said Mr McNamara, who expressed his sincere condolences to the mans wife on the tragic and untimely loss of her husband.

Inspector Sandra Heelan expressed her sympathies both in a personal capacity and on behalf of gardai in Limerick. His wife thanked gardai for all their work.
AN GARDA Siochana has issues an appeal this Sunday for the public to take care over the remainder of this bank holiday weekend.

Since Thursday, gardai and other emergency services have dealt with a "significant number of fatal incidents across the country".

"These tragic incidents have left behind grieving families and friends on a bank holiday weekend which should be full of fun and enjoyment," said a garda spokesperson.

All incidents remain under appropriate investigation and will ultimately result in files for the local coroner. An Garda Siochana has appointed family liaison officers to support families in all of these tragic fatal incidents.

Speaking this Sunday morning, Assistant Commissioner Paula Hilman, with responsibility for Roads Policing and Community Engagement, has appealed: "In the last 72 hours my colleagues in An Garda Siochana and in the other emergency services across the country have responded to a number of tragic fatal incidents. Too many families have suffered trauma already this weekend."

Assistant Commissioner Hilman said no matter what activity you are taking part in this weekend to please "take care".

"Please ensure that you are following all the appropriate safety advice. If you are travelling on our roads I appeal to drivers to please slow down and ask all road users to take care over the remaining days of this bank holiday weekend," said Assistant Commissioner Hilman.

On Thursday, the body of a 60-year-old male recovered in the Kerry mountains; a male in 60s died in a road traffic collision in Dunmanway, Co Cork

On Friday, two male motorcyclists (50s / 60s) were killed in road traffic collision on the M50 Motorway, Dublin; a female (early 40s) died in a vehicle related incident in Cork city.

On Saturday, a male motorcyclist (early 40s) was killed in a road traffic collision in Clifden, Co Kilkenny.
THE LIGHTER of iconic revolutionary Che Guevara purchased on his travels through Shannon Airport is up for auction starting at an estimated 4,000.

In March 1965 Che Guevara, who had distant Irish ancestry, stayed overnight in Shannon, Ireland when his Prague to Havana flight diverted there with engine trouble.

While at the airport, Guevara purchased the lighter at the duty-free store and called it his lucky lighter.

The lucky cigar lighter bought by the guerrilla leader is to go under the hammer from Paul Fraser Collectibles.

He used the lighter until his return from his disastrous trip to Africa, where he attempted to foment a series of continental revolutions.

At this point Guevara gave the lighter to Fidel Castros mistress Natty Revuelta Clews as a present, telling her it was not so lucky.

The present owner is British businessman Mr Gary Shannon, who knew the Castro family and their associates for 20+ years from circa 2000.

Mr Shannon helped provide technology and communications infrastructure to Cuba.

The lighter was acquired by Mr Shannon at the estate sale of Fidel Castro's mistress Natty Revuelta Clews, between December 2015 and July 2016.

The item formed part of Mr Shannons private Jagdamer Museum of Castro and Guevara memorabilia, from 2016 to 2020.

Natty Revuelta, Fidels mistress from 1955 until her death, was a wealthy socialite and was instrumental in assisting Castro overthrow the Batista regime in Cuba.

Revuelta sold her jewels to support the Cuban rebels, helped plan the July 26 Movement uprising in 1953 and, crucially, helped Fidel Castro co-ordinate the Cuban Revolution.

She exchanged secret messages with him while he was imprisoned between 1953 and 1955.

Until this present auction and the revelation of Castros cigar box with secret compartments, it was unknown how Castro transferred these secret messages.

The pair began their affair upon Castros release from prison in May 1955.

Bidding ends on June 23, 2022, at 8.02pm.
Omniplex Cinema review the latest new releases to watch in cinemas this week.

Jurassic World Dominion (12a Cert) - click link to see trailer

Starring: Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas Howard, Laura Dern & Sam Neill

Director: Colin Trevorrow

Genre: Action Adventure

Release Date: Fri 10 June

This summer, experience the epic conclusion to the Jurassic era as two generations unite for the first time. Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard are joined by Oscar-winner Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum & Sam Neill in Jurassic World Dominion, a bold, timely and breath-taking new adventure that spans the globe. From Jurassic World architect and director Colin Trevorrow, Dominion takes place four years after Isla Nublar has been destroyed. Dinosaurs now live and hunt alongside humans all over the world. This fragile balance will reshape the future and determine, once and for all, whether human beings are to remain the apex predators on a planet they now share with history's most fearsome creatures.

Jurassic World Dominion (12a Cert) Trailer:

Jurassic World Trivia:

Jurassic World: Dominion will be released on June 10, 2022, just one day before the date when Jurassic Park (1993) was released on June 11, 1993. And just two days before the date when Jurassic World (2015) was released on June 12, 2015.

Colin Trevorrow has revealed that this film is going to have the more animatronics than its predecessors.

As he put it: "We've actually gone more practical with every Jurassic movie we've made since the first one, and we've made more animatronics in this one than we have in the previous two."

Sam Neil has often said he thought Dr. Grant would have long since retired by now, but maybe the threat of dinosaurs back on American soil would force him to reconsider that option.

Howard stated that she wanted the film to "blow your mind in terms of being like, 'Whoa, this is where this technology can go. This is what the world could really turn into if this technology fell into the wrong hands.' So basically, seeing a world with dinosaurs everywhere."

The New York Times has reported that the production crew had spent approximately $9 million putting safeguards in place. That money went toward renting out an entire hotel for the cast and crew to quarantine in for the duration of the shoot. They also established 150 hand sanitizing stations around the set and ordered roughly 18,000 COVID tests.

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Google has barred businesses from using Rich Communication Services (RCS) for marketing in India, the company's largest market by users, in a setback for the standard that the company is expecting to help become the future of SMS messaging, following accusations of rampant spam by some companies.

In May, during the Android portion of Google I/O 2022, Google disclosed that RCS messaging has more than 500 million users around the world. The company was specifically referring to monthly active users of RCS using the Google Messages app.

According to TechCrunch, RCS is the result of a collaboration between a number of industry players to enhance traditional SMS with modern features like richer texts and end-to-end encryption.

RCS support has been scaled out to hundreds of millions of people throughout the world in recent years by Google, Samsung, and a number of other companies, including telecom providers. Google reported in May that the number of monthly active users using RCS messaging in the Android Messages app had topped 500 million. RCS is also geared at enabling businesses to reach out to users in a more participatory way, and the company urged "any mobile operating system" (a sly jab at Apple) to support it at its developer conference.

According to TechCrunch, the issue is that a lot of Indian organisations, including big banks and other lending institutions, have been misusing the function to send unsolicited promotional materials to any phone number they can discover in the country.

RCS is a next-generation texting system that is expected to eventually replace SMS by most operators throughout the world. It has read-receipts, high-quality attachments, and typing indications, as well as the majority of the features you'd expect from a modern messaging programme. RCS is referred to as "Chat" in Google's Android Messages app, which is a more consumer-friendly term for the service.

RCS providers may be able to view the contents of your messages and, if properly requested, may provide them over to the government. When they are transmitted to your phone, Google said it'd destroy them from its servers, The Verge reported in 2019.
India, on June 5, conveyed to Qatar that controversial remarks against minorities are views of fringe elements and not the Government of India. "In line with our civilizational heritage and strong cultural traditions of unity in diversity, the Government of India accords the highest respect to all religions. Strong action has already been taken against those who made derogatory remarks," said the spokesperson of the Embassy of India in Qatar.

Meanwhile, after their reported incendiary remarks against minorities, the BJP suspended Nupur Sharma from the party's primary membership and expelled Delhi media head Naveen Kumar Jindal. Sharma has apologised for her remark and said she had no intention to hurt anybody.

In response to a media query regarding a statement issued by Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs on an offensive tweet in India, the spokesperson said, "Ambassador Deepak Mittal had a meeting in the Foreign Office in which concerns were raised with regard to some offensive tweets by individuals in India denigrating the religious personality. The Ambassador conveyed that the tweets do not, in any manner, reflect the views of the Government of India. These are the views of fringe elements."

"A statement has also been issued by concerned quarters emphasising respect for all religions, denouncing insult to any religious personality or demeaning any religion or sect," added the spokesperson.

The spokesperson went on to say that vested forces opposed to India-Qatar relations have been agitating people by making negative remarks.

"We should work together against such mischievous elements who aim to undercut the strength of our bilateral ties," added the spokesperson.

As part of a three-nation tour that also included Senegal and Gabon, BJP Vice President Venkaiah Naidu has begun a four-day visit to Qatar with a high-level team. Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs called Dr. Deepak Mittal, India's Ambassador to the country, on Sunday and presented him with an official message expressing Qatar's disappointment and absolute rejection and condemnation of the contentious remarks.

Meanwhile, Qatar welcomed the statement issued by the ruling party in India in which it announced the suspension and expulsion of party officials.

(With ANI inputs)
The Qatar foreign ministry on Sunday summoned Indian ambassador Deepak Mittal and handed him an official note, expressing disappointment and total rejection and condemnation of controversial remarks made against Prophet Mohammed by BJP officials Nupur Sharma and Naveen Jindal.

While the authorities in Qatar welcomed the ruling government's move to suspend Sharma and expel Jindal, they also made clear their expectation of a public apology and immediate condemnation of the controversial statements.

They pointed out that allowing such Islamophobic remarks to continue without punishment, constitutes a grave danger to the protection of human rights and may lead to further prejudice and marginalization."

The note also stated that these insulting remakes would lead to incitement of religious hatred, and offend more than two billion Muslims around the world, and indicate the clear ignorance of the pivotal role that Islam has played in the development of civilizations around the world, including in India."

Following this, the Indian Embassy in Qatar said that Mittal has conveyed that the "tweets do not, in any manner, reflect the views of the Government of India. These are the views of fringe elements".

"In line with our civilisational heritage and strong cultural traditions of unity in diversity, Government of India accords the highest respect to all religions. Strong action has already been taken against those who made the derogatory remarks," read a statement by the embassy.

Vested interests that are against the India-Qatar relations have been inciting the people using these derogatory comments. We should work together against such mischievous elements who aim to undercut the strength of our bilateral ties," it added.

BJP's statement

In its efforts to defuse the tensions, the BJP earlier in the day issued a statement aimed at assuaging the concerns of minorities and distancing itself from Sharma and Jindal.

The party asserted that it respects all religions and strongly denounces the insult of any religious personality.

After her suspension, Sharma unconditionally withdrew her controversial statement made in a TV debate and claimed that her comments were a reaction to "continuous insult and disrespect towards our Mahadev"' (Lord Shiva).

Both Sharma and Jindal said it was never their intention to hurt anyone's religious feelings.

A communication to Sharma from the party's disciplinary committee secretary Om Pathak said she has expressed views contrary to the party's position on various matters, which is in clear violation of its constitution.

A communication from Delhi BJP chief Adesh Gupta to Jindal said his views on social media vitiate communal harmony and are in violation of the party's fundamental beliefs.

He has acted against the party's policies and ideology, Gupta said.

Vice President's Qatar visit

Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Qatar, Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani received Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu at Amiri Diwan in Doha on Sunday.

"PM & Minister of Interior of Qatar, Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani received VP @MVenkaiahNaidu at Amiri Diwan in Doha," tweeted MEA spox Arindam Bagchi while he informed about the congregation.

Continuing the thread, he said that both sides held delegation-level talks and reviewed bilateral relations including trade, investment, and economic and security cooperation.
Several explosions were heard rocking Ukraine's capital city Kyiv, following which, the Russian President Vladimir Putin said that Moscow is ready to hit new targets if the the Western countries supply the East European nation with long-range missile.

Putin on 24 February had launched a special military operation on Ukraine, citing neo-Nazi attempts, and NATO aspirations from West on the transcontinental country spanning Eastern Europe and Northern Asia. Tens of thousands of people have been killed, millions forced to flee and towns turned into rubble since the attack commenced over 100 days ago.

Putin was quoted by Russian news agencies on Sunday mentioned that if Kyiv is provided with the long-range missiles, ""we will draw the appropriate conclusions and use our arms... to strike targets we haven't hit before".

Although the Russian President did not mention which targets he was talking about.

Putin's statements seemed more in retaliation to the United State's promise made last week to supply Ukraine with advanced missile systems.

On Sunday, Ukrainian officials claimed that Russian missiles had hit railway infrastructure sites in the first such strikes on Kyiv since 28 April. Russia said that it had destroyed tanks supplied to Ukraine by eastern European countries during the strikes.

"High-precision, long-range missiles fired by the Russian Aerospace Forces on the outskirts of Kyiv destroyed T-72 tanks supplied by eastern European countries and other armoured vehicles that were in hangars," Russian defence ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov said.

Severodonetsk 'divided'

Meanwhile, in the east of the country, the battle for control of Severodonetsk raged on.

The city is the largest still in Ukrainian hands in the Lugansk region of the Donbas, where Russian forces have been advancing gradually after retreating or being beaten back from other parts of the country, including Kyiv.

Lugansk regional governor Sergiy Gaiday said that Russian forces had lost ground in the city and it was now "divided in two".

"The Russians were in control of about 70 percent of the city, but have been forced back over the past two days," he said on Telegram.

"They are afraid to move freely around the city."

Russia's army on Saturday claimed some Ukrainian military units were withdrawing from Severodonetsk, but Mayor Oleksandr Striuk said Ukrainian forces were fighting to retake the city.

"We are currently doing everything necessary to re-establish total control" of the city, he said in an interview broadcast on Telegram.

Food Shortage in Ukraine

Russian troops now occupy a fifth of Ukraine's territory, according to Kyiv, and Moscow has imposed a blockade on its Black Sea ports, sparking fears of a global food crisis. Ukraine and Russia are among the top wheat exporters in the world.

The United Nations said it was leading intense negotiations with Russia to allow Ukraine's grain harvest to leave the country.

The UN has warned that African countries, which normally import over half of their wheat consumption from Ukraine and Russia, face an "unprecedented" crisis.

Food prices in Africa have already exceeded those in the aftermath of the 2011 Arab Spring uprisings and the 2008 food riots.
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President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden were moved from their Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, home as a precautionary measure on Saturday afternoon after a small private plane entered restricted airspace, a White House official said. President Biden is shown here speaking from the White House on June 2, 2022.
Omniplex Cinema review the latest new releases to watch in cinemas this week.

Jurassic World Dominion (12a Cert) - click link to see trailer

Starring: Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas Howard, Laura Dern & Sam Neill

Director: Colin Trevorrow

Genre: Action Adventure

Release Date: Fri 10 June

This summer, experience the epic conclusion to the Jurassic era as two generations unite for the first time. Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard are joined by Oscar-winner Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum & Sam Neill in Jurassic World Dominion, a bold, timely and breath-taking new adventure that spans the globe. From Jurassic World architect and director Colin Trevorrow, Dominion takes place four years after Isla Nublar has been destroyed. Dinosaurs now live and hunt alongside humans all over the world. This fragile balance will reshape the future and determine, once and for all, whether human beings are to remain the apex predators on a planet they now share with history's most fearsome creatures.

Jurassic World Dominion (12a Cert) Trailer:

Jurassic World Trivia:

Jurassic World: Dominion will be released on June 10, 2022, just one day before the date when Jurassic Park (1993) was released on June 11, 1993. And just two days before the date when Jurassic World (2015) was released on June 12, 2015.

Colin Trevorrow has revealed that this film is going to have the more animatronics than its predecessors.

As he put it: "We've actually gone more practical with every Jurassic movie we've made since the first one, and we've made more animatronics in this one than we have in the previous two."

Sam Neil has often said he thought Dr. Grant would have long since retired by now, but maybe the threat of dinosaurs back on American soil would force him to reconsider that option.

Howard stated that she wanted the film to "blow your mind in terms of being like, 'Whoa, this is where this technology can go. This is what the world could really turn into if this technology fell into the wrong hands.' So basically, seeing a world with dinosaurs everywhere."

The New York Times has reported that the production crew had spent approximately $9 million putting safeguards in place. That money went toward renting out an entire hotel for the cast and crew to quarantine in for the duration of the shoot. They also established 150 hand sanitizing stations around the set and ordered roughly 18,000 COVID tests.

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Rafael Nadal and Casper Ruud battled it out in the final of the French Open, with the trophy once again going to the Spaniard for the 14th time.

The win sees Nadal take home a cheque of 2.2 million euros compared to Ruud's 1.1m euros as finalist. Nadal will also add 2,000 points to his tally as he looks to end the year in top spot.

He's already secured a spot at the Masters Cup in Turin, which runs from November 13-20, and also now sits fourth in the overall rankings, just 270 points behind the injured Alexander Zverev.

As for Casper Ruud, he collects 1,200 points as a finalist, and now sits sixth in the overall rankings behind Carlos Alcaraz and Stefanos Tsitsipas.
UVALDE, Texas (AP)  Mourners on Sunday were remembering a girl who was an aspiring artist, whose joy at reaching the double-digit age of 10 charmed broken hearts around the world.

Alithia Ramirez was among the 19 children who, along with their two teachers, died on May 24 when an 18-year-old gunman opened fire with an AR-15-style rifle inside Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. Alithia's funeral was set for Sunday afternoon at First Baptist Church. Funerals will continue into mid-June.

___

Alithia Ramirez

Ten-year-old Alithia Ramirez was a loving and caring girl who loved to draw.

Her obituary described her as smart and an extremely loving young lady who dreamt of attending Art School in Paris. She was very reliable, always wanted to take care of everyone, and was a role model to her siblings.

Alithias parents met with President Joe Biden during his visit to Uvalde on May 29, KENS-TV reported. They said Biden asked if he could have one of her drawings to hang in the White House.

Ryan Ramirez said Biden told the parents, Whenever we hang it up, we are going to send you a picture of where it is hanging, and you are free to see it anytime."

Ryan Ramirez rushed to Robb Elementary when he heard about the shooting. He told KTRK-TV he simply wanted to find his daughter and take her home.

After her death, a photo was shown around the world of Alithia, smiling broadly as she wore a tie-dye T-shirt that read: Out of single digits and I'm 10. Her birthday was April 28.

Her father later posted that same photo on Facebook with no words, but with Alithia wearing angel wings.

This is a parents nightmare. This is the worst of the worst, Ryan Ramirez told KENS-TV on Wednesday.

___

More on the school shooting in Uvalde, Texas: https://apnews.com/hub/uvalde-school-shooting
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TOKYO (AP)  Japanese adventurer Kenichi Horie at 83 just became the oldest person in the world to complete a solo, nonstop voyage across the Pacific Ocean  and he says he is still in the middle of my youth and not done yet.

Horie returned home as he crossed the Kii Strait off Japans western coast early Saturday, completing his trans-Pacific solo voyage in 69 days after leaving a yacht harbor in San Francisco in late March.

On Sunday, after spending the night on his 19-foot (6-meter) -long Suntory Mermaid III just off the coast, Horie was towed into his home port of Shin Nishinomiya, where he was cheered by local residents and supporters and banners that read: Welcome back, Mr. Kenichi Horie!

As he approached the harbor, Horie, standing in his boat, took off his white cap and waved. He got off the yacht, took off the cap again and bowed deeply on the pier before he was presented with bouquets of roses.

Thank you for waiting! said Horie, who appeared tanned and with his white hair longer than usual.

He carried a stock of medicine from San Francisco, he said, but only used eye drops and Band-Aids during his more than two months alone at sea.

That shows how healthy I am, Horie said. Im still in the middle of my youth.

He said he burned all my body and soul on the journey but says he's ready for more. I will keep up my work to be a late bloomer."

At a news conference at the yacht harbor later Sunday, he said becoming the oldest person to make the feat was a dream come true. "It was my great joy to have been able to make a challenge as a real goal and safely achieve it, instead of just holding onto it as a dream.

I want to be a challenger as long as I live, he said.

It 1962, he became the first person in the world to successfully complete a solo nonstop voyage across the Pacific from Japan to San Francisco. Sixty years later, he traveled the opposite route.

This time, his preparation during the coronavirus pandemic was full of uncertainties involving vaccine requirements, testing and other logistics. It was like walking on thin ice, he said.

Soon after his departure from San Francisco, he was faced with a storm, but the weather gradually improved and he reached Hawaii in mid-April ahead of schedule.

He had some struggles toward the end with a few days of pushback from a strong tide. He wrote on his blog on Friday that he had succeeded but was exhausted, and he took a nap after feeling assured that his yacht was on the right track to the finish line.

Horie has completed other long-distance solo voyages, including sailing around the world in 1974. His latest expedition was the first since his 2008 solo nonstop voyage on a wave-powered boat from Hawaii to the Kii Strait.

Despite sailing on his own, technology such as ship tracking and communications allowed him to stay in touch with his family and other people throughout the journey. I imagine my next voyage would be even more fun, he said.
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HELSINKI (AP)  NATO kicked off nearly a two-week U.S.-led naval exercise on the Baltic Sea on Sunday with more than 7,000 sailors, airmen and marines from 16 nations, including two aspiring to join the military alliance, Finland and Sweden.

The annual BALTOPS naval exercise, initiated in 1972, is not held in response to any specific threat. But the military alliance said that with both Sweden and Finland participating, NATO is seizing the chance in an unpredictable world to enhance its joint force resilience and strength together with two Nordic aspirant nations.

Finland and Sweden both have a long history of military non-alignment before their governments decided to apply to join NATO in May, a direct result of Russias Feb. 24 invasion of Ukraine. Over the past years, Moscow has repeatedly warned Helsinki and Stockholm against joining the Western military alliance and warned of retaliatory measures if they did.

Ahead of the naval drill, which involved 45 vessels and 75 aircraft, the top U.S military official said in Sweden  the host of the BALTOPS 22 exercise  that it was particularly important for NATO to show support to the governments in Helsinki and Stockholm.

It is important for us, the United States, and the other NATO countries to show solidarity with both Finland and Sweden in this exercise, U.S. Gen. Mark Milley, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said Saturday during a news conference aboard the large amphibious warship USS Kearsarge, which was moored in central Stockholm.

Milley, speaking with the Swedish Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson, stressed that the Baltic Sea is a strategically important body of water  one of the great seaways of the world.

He said from Moscows perspective, Finland and Sweden joining NATO will be very problematic and leave Russia in a difficult military position as the Baltic Seas coastline would be almost completely encircled by NATO members, except for Russias Baltic exclave of Kaliningrad and the Russian city of St. Petersburg and its surrounding areas.

Turkey, a NATO member that has had good relations with Russia, has objected to Finland and Sweden joining the military alliance, citing their alleged support for a Kurdish group that Turkey labels as terrorist. NATO's chief has been trying to resolve the dispute.

The United States has never before moved such a large warship as the 843-foot USS Kearsarge in the Swedish capital, where it sailed through narrow passages in the Stockholm archipelago, Milley said.

As NATO's close partners, Finland and Sweden have participated in the naval drill since the mid-1990s.

BALTOPS 22 is scheduled to end in the German port of Kiel on June 17.

___

Follow the APs coverage of the war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine
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NEW ORLEANS (AP)  Employees at a Starbucks store in New Orleans voted to form a union, becoming the first of the coffee giant's locations in Louisiana to unionize.

Ballots were cast Friday and Saturday 11-1 in favor of joining Workers United, which represents the unionized Starbucks stores, WWNO-FM reported. Two ballots were challenged, the station said.

The New Orleans vote is the latest in a series of wins for labor at Starbucks stores across the nation, and comes about a week after workers in Birmingham, Alabama, voted 27-to-1 to become that states first unionized Starbucks.

Barista Caitlyn Pierce and others wanted to unionize because of regular shifts where they were overworked and understaffed, the station reported.

Im feeling amazing, Pierce said. This is something we worked so hard for and its just great to finally get here.

Starbucks has fought unionization efforts, saying its 9,000 company-owned U.S. stores function best when Starbucks works directly with employees, which the company calls partners.

In a statement Sunday, Starbucks said it was listening and learning, and added, We respect our partners right to organize. The statement didnt say whether the company would challenge the vote.

Billie Nyx, lead organizer of the union campaign, was fired in mid-May for closing the store early without permission from higher management. Nyx is contesting the dismissal, saying it was in retaliation for union advocacy.

Nyx said they will meet with their lawyer and gather those still working at the store to solidify specific demands for the contract negotiations.

To win the changes they seek  like better pay and more reliable schedules  unionized stores must still sit down with Starbucks and negotiate a contract. Its a painstaking process that can take years.

A Starbucks in Buffalo, New York, became the first in the United States to unionize late last year. Based in Seattle, the company has more than 34,000 stores worldwide.
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PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (AP)  Early indications showed Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sens ruling party headed for victory in local elections Sunday as people voted in large numbers for the first time since a 2018 general election that was widely criticized as unfair.

Hun Sens Cambodian Peoples Party was virtually certain to capture the lions share of 11,622 council seats being contested in 1,652 communes throughout the country. The party has held an iron grip on power for decades, and has the huge advantage of controlling almost every local government. Its opponents are less organized, with much fewer resources and have complained of intimidation and threats.

The preliminary results were set to be announced commune by commune by state media on Sunday night, but an aggregated official tally wont be given until June 26.

Several governors quoted by the Fresh News website, which is close to the government, said unofficial results showed Hun Sens party winning most council races in their provinces. Earlier, news websites that broadcast counts from polling stations had generally put the ruling party in the lead.

Turnout was more than 77% out of 9.2 million registered voters, said Prach Chan, chairman of the National Election Committee.

He said the election was free and fair, without intimidation or threats, contrary to the U.N. Human Rights Office in Geneva that last week said there has been a pattern of threats, intimidation and obstruction targeting opposition candidates.

Hun Sens party was the only one to field candidates in all the communes. Its most serious challenger was the Candlelight Party, which was rallying opposition supporters.

Hun Sen, an authoritarian ruler in a nominally democratic state, has held power for 37 years. He and his wife cast their ballots Sunday morning in Kandal province near the capital, Phnom Penh. Hun Sen has said he intends to stay in office until 2028 and has endorsed one of his sons to succeed him.

The local elections are held a year ahead of the general election, and are regarded as a test of the parties strength.

In the last communal elections in 2017, the main opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party made an unexpectedly strong showing, which led Hun Sens government to crack down on it as well as independent media. The party was dissolved by the Supreme Court on a charge of treason, widely seen as politically motivated, and the free press was driven out of business or cowed into submission.

Without the Cambodian National Rescue Party on the ballot, Hun Sens party was assured of victory in the general election the following year, taking all the seats in the National Assembly.

Several Western nations imposed sanctions on the government after judging the 2018 election neither free nor fair. The harshest measure came from the European Union, which withdrew some preferential trading privileges.

The dissolved Cambodia National Rescue Party, whose sitting members were also ousted from their political posts, remains banned, with most of its top leaders in exile.

The Candlelight Party sought to take its place though it had to hurriedly organize and came under pressure from the government.

The original Candlelight Party was founded in 1995 by Sam Rainsy, the main political rival of Hun Sen, and later folded into the Cambodia National Rescue Party.

Sam Rainsy, faced with legal harassment, went into self-exile in France, and the co-founder of the Cambodia National Rescue Party, Kem Sokha, is currently being tried on a thinly supported treason charge.
WASHINGTON (AP)  For some Afghans who were evacuated as their country fell to the Taliban last summer, the journey to the United States has stalled, and perhaps ended, at a sun-baked cluster of tents and temporary housing on an American base in the Balkans.

While more than 78,000 Afghans have arrived in the U.S. for resettlement since August, the future for those who have been flagged for additional security vetting and diverted to Camp Bondsteel, in the small nation of Kosovo, remains up in the air. The U.S. won't force the dozens there to return to Afghanistan, where they could face reprisals.

Their frustration is growing. Some Afghans at the base, which has been shrouded in secrecy, took the unusual step this week of staging a protest, holding up signs with messages such as we want justice, according to photos sent to The Associated Press.

They just keep repeating the same things, that it takes time and we must be patient, one of the Afghans, Muhammad Arif Sarwari, said in a text message from the base.

Their complaints open a window into an aspect of the evacuation and resettlement of Afghans that has gotten little attention because U.S. authorities, and the government of Kosovo, have been reluctant to say much about the people sent to Bondsteel.

The base houses a mix of adults and children, because some of the people who have so far failed to get a visa to the U.S. are traveling with family. Sarwari, a former senior intelligence official with the Afghan government, said there are about 45 people there, representing about 20 or so individual visa cases, after a flight to the U.S. left with 27 of the refugees on Wednesday.

The Biden administration won't provide details, but acknowledges that some of the evacuees did not make it through what it calls a a multi-layered, rigorous screening and vetting process and won't be permitted to enter the U.S.

While the vast majority of Afghan evacuees have been cleared through this process, the small number of individuals who have been denied are examples of the system working exactly as it should, the National Security Council said in a written statement.

In all, about 600 Afghans have passed through Bondsteel, according to the government of Kosovo, which initially authorized use of the base for evacuees for a year but recently agreed to extend that until August 2023.

Kosovo, which gained independence from Serbia in 2008 with U.S. support, has also provided little information about the Afghans at Bondsteel, citing the privacy of the refugees. Prime Minister Albin Kurti said in a statement that the government is proud of its role providing temporary shelter to them.

Afghans are housed in a section of Bondsteel called Camp Liya, named for an Afghan child handed to the U.S. Marines over a fence at the Hamid Karzai International Airport during the evacuation, according to a U.S. military publication.

It was the chaotic nature of that evacuation that led to the need for an overseas facility in the first place. As the Afghan government collapsed, thousands of people made it onto military transport planes with minimal screening before they arrived at one of several overseas transit points.

The people sent to Bondsteel were stopped and diverted for a host of reasons, including missing or flawed documents or security concerns that emerged during overseas vetting by the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security, officials have said.

At the same time, some in Congress have criticized the administration for what they say has been inadequate vetting of Afghan refugees.

Sarwari made it to Kuwait from Afghanistan in early September with his wife and two of his daughters and says he doesn't know why he's been held up. He was a prominent figure in Afghanistan, serving as the former director of intelligence after the U.S. invasion in 2001. Before that, he was a top official with the anti-Taliban Northern Alliance.

Both positions would make him a target of the Taliban if he were to return.

The vetting team keeps telling us sorry, Washington is just deciding some political issues, he said.

Sarwari has applied for a special immigrant visa, which is issued to people who worked for the U.S. government or its allies during the war. He has not received a response, according to his lawyer, Julie Sirrs.

In theory, he is free to leave but its not clear where he could go, Sirrs said. He obviously cannot return to Afghanistan. Hes clearly in danger if he returns.

He and others live a circumscribed existence on Bondsteel. Although technically not detained, they cannot leave the arid, rocky base and have spent months in tents, which were adorned with handwritten signs during this week's protest. One said unfair decision, while another said children are suffering.

The Biden administration says authorities have determined that some  it won't say how many  simply cannot be allowed to enter the U.S. It is working to find other countries that don't harbor the same security concerns and are willing to accept them for resettlement. No one will be forcibly returned to Afghanistan, according to the NSC statement.

_____

Associated Press writer Llazar Semini in Tirana, Albania, contributed to this report.
ROME, Ga. -- The last time James McCubbin saw his old P51 Mustang was in the German countryside almost 80 years ago, when an enemy plane shot his wing and he had to eject.

Fast forward to Wednesday, and the 101-year-old World War II veteran smiling happily as he watched a P51 Mustang fly once again at Richard B. Russell Regional Airport in Rome.

As a member of the Eighth Air Force, McCubbin's main duty was to escort bombers, and on the way back to base, he was also allowed to find ground targets for strafing runs.

During a deep penetration strafing mission towards the end of the war, McCubbin and another pilot ran into trouble when the weather worsened. He would soon watch as his friend was shot down from the sky.

Despite the loss, McCubbin continued the mission and was on his way back to base when someone shot the wing of his plane and left a hole 2 feet in diameter. He ended up ejecting from the plane and landed in the countryside.

That was the last time he saw his plane, the Mary Al, named after his girlfriend at the time. When he returned from the war, he ended up marrying a lady named Bettye, who spent the rest of her life with him.

After weeks trekking through the German countryside and living off sauerkraut from generous strangers, McCubbin was captured by the Germans and held as a prisoner of war for three months, until the war ended.

During his imprisonment, he was given soup with worms and beans in it. At first he didn't eat the worms in the soup, but towards the very end, he ate them for protein.

He's credited for shooting down nine German planes and was awarded both a Purple Heart and a Distinguished Flying Cross. With his wife, Bettye McCubbin, he had four children, nine grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Bettye passed away at the Renaissance Marquis three years ago. McCubbin still lives there.

But on Wednesday he sat beneath a tent at Floyd County's airport as U.S. Air Force Col. Craig Hutain landed a P51 Mustang, to give him a last look at the aircraft he flew while serving his country so many years ago.

McCubbin was joined by his granddaughter Breanna Jones, granddaughter-in-law Holly Jones, 6-year-old great-grandson Cody Jones and daughter Cherie.

He said he felt good that day, especially since he didn't have to go to work. His short-term memory isn't what it used to be, but he was happy to be around so many people.

When asked if he wanted to get in the cockpit with a mic on, McCubbin joked that he was worried he'd drop a few swear words.

Three other WWII veterans were also in attendance: James Holloway, John Karlovich and James Griggs.

Although McCubbin did get an up-close look at the old, familiar plane, the heat of the day prevented him from climbing all the steps to get into the cockpit. But he posed for a photo with the plane and held up an older photograph, bringing the moment full circle.

Olivia Morley writes for the Rome News-Tribune.
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If the field of view (FOV) is specified for the photo, the scalebar appears in the left bottom corner of the viewer. The scalebar is draggable and resizeable. Drag the right edge to resize it. Double click will reset the scalebar to it's default size and position. If the scalebar is in default position, double click will make it circular.

Controls - Video

Video files have a standard set of video controls: - Reset to start, - Skip back, - Play, - Pause, - Skip forwards. Keyboard shortcuts: You can stop/start video play with the P key.

Controls - Animation (Spin Rotation)

Animation (usually 360 degree spin rotations) have their own controls: - enable spin mode. Note that while images are loading this option will not be available but will be automatically activated when the animation has loaded. Once active you can spin the image/change the animation by moving your mouse or finger on the image left/right or by pressing the [ or ] keys.

The button switches to move mode so that you can use your mouse/fingers to move the image around the screen as with other media types.

The button, or the P key will start playing the animation directly, you can interrupt this by using the mouse or finger on the image to regain manual movement control.

Controls - 3D Stereoscopic images

If a stereoscopic 3D image is opened in the viewer, the 3D button appears in the bottom right corner giving access to "3D settings" menu. The 3D images can be viewed in several ways:

- without any special equipment using cross-eyed or parallel-eyed method

- with stereoscope

- with anaglyph glasses.

- on a suitable 3D TV or monitor (passive 3D system)

For details about 3D refer to: Mindat manuals: Mindat Media Viewer: 3D

To enable/disable 3D stereo display of a compatible stereo pair image press the 3 key. If the left/right images are reversed on your display (this often happens in full-screen mode) press the 4 key to reverse them.

Controls - photo comparison mode

If a photo with activated comparison mode is opened in the viewer, the button appears in the bottom right corner giving access to "Comparison mode settings" menu.

Several layouts are supported: slider and side by-side comparison with up to 6 photos shown synchronously on the screen. On each of the compared photos a view selector is placed, e.g.: Longwave UV . It shows the name of currently selected view and allows to select a view for each placeholder.

Summary of all keyboard shortcuts
04.06.2022 LISTEN

The Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Chapter in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland Alhaji Alhassan Mbalba has joined Ghanaians, especially the supporters of the National Democratic Congress across the globe to commemorate the 43rd Anniversary celebration of the June 4th Uprising.

Chairman Mbalba noted that today marks the second year of the commemoration of the June 4th Uprising without the leader of the revolution late Flt Lt John Jerry Rawlings of blessed memory.

"As social democrats, it is a cardinal principle of NDC to promote equal opportunities for all Ghanaians without any form of discrimination on the basis of ethnicity, religion, gender, disability and individual's unique characteristics. There is enough evidence to show that Ghana made significant strides in promoting equal, just and fair society in Ghana under the leadership of the President", he said in a press statement.

READ THE FULL PRESS RELEASE BELOW:

NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC CONGRESS(NDC) UK & IRELAND CHAPTER STATEMENT TO COMMEMORATE 43RD ANNIVERSARY OF JUNE 4TH UPRISING.

The NDC- UK & Ireland Chapter would like to join Ghanaians especially NDC supporters across the globe to commemorate the 43rd Anniversary celebration of June 4th Uprising.

This is the second year running that we are commemorating the June 4th Uprising without the Leader of the Revolution, late Flt Lt John Jerry Rawlings of blessed memory.

The link between June 4th Uprising and 31st December Revolution which ushered in the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC) and National Democratic Congress (NDC) are well documented.

The socio-economic and political conditions in Ghana which precipitated the 4th Uprising helped in shaping NDCs political philosophy-social democracy.

As social democrats, it is a cardinal principle of NDC to promote equal opportunities for all Ghanaians without any form of discrimination on the basis of ethnicity, religion, gender, disability and individual unique characteristics.

There is enough evidence to show that Ghana made significant strides in promoting equal, just and fair society in Ghana under the leadership of President Rawlings.

It is unfortunate that our efforts to protect, to deepen and consolidate rule of law and democracy in Ghana are being thwarted by President Akuffo Addo-Bawumia led government which is characterised by nepotism, tribalism, corruption and other social ills.

There is no doubt that despite the sudden demise of Flt Lt Rawlings, the principles and values of June 4th will continue to be relevant and important in sustaining and consolidating our longest attempt to institutionalise democracy in Ghana.

Never again must we experience or witness the events which gave rise to and characterised the June 4 Uprising.

We must therefore, continue to cherish and propagate the ideals, values and principles of June 4th Uprising in our quest to deepen and consolidate democracy, rule of law and constitutionalism in Ghana.

Long Live Ghana!

Long Live NDC !

Long Live June 4th!

Signed:

Alhaji Alhassan Mbalba

Chairman

NDC-UK & Ireland Chapter
A UN human rights expert on Sudan called on Saturday for accelerated investigations into killings of protesters and other atrocities, as the death toll since last year's coup nears 100.

Sudan has been rocked by deepening unrest and a violent crackdown against near-weekly mass protests since army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan's power grab on October 25 derailed a fragile transition to civilian rule.

"It is simply unacceptable that 99 people have been killed and more than 5,000 injured as a result of excessive use of force by the joint security forces," Adama Dieng told reporters, quoting a toll provided by pro-democracy medics.

He called on authorities "to expedite" investigations into the killings of protesters.

On what is his second visit to Sudan since last year's coup, Dieng has raised concerns during talks with senior officials over arbitrary and mass arrests of activists, sexual and gender-based violence, and "acts of torture and ill-treatment" during detentions.

He said a probe set up by Sudanese authorities has confirmed "four cases of sexual violence" during the protests.

The UN expert also pointed to an intensification of an existing economic crisis since the coup, which has seen Western donors return to the sidelines, after brief engagement with a civilian-military power-sharing government established in the wake of autocrat Omar al-Bashir's ouster in 2019.

Spiralling prices and a poor harvest are "forecast to dramatically increase the number of people living in poverty," he noted.

Dieng is scheduled to meet with Burhan later Saturday.

On Friday, thousands of protesters took to the streets across Sudan to mark the third anniversary of a crackdown that medics say killed 128 people in June 2019, when armed men in military fatigues violently dispersed a weeks-long sit-in outside army headquarters.

A protester was killed during Friday's demonstrations despite calls by Dieng, echoed by Western diplomats, for security forces to "refrain from excessive violence against protesters."

The UN, along with the African Union and regional grouping IGAD, have been pushing for Sudanese-led talks to break the post-coup political stalemate.

On Friday, UN special representative Volker Perthes announced the Security Council had voted to extend by one year the United Nations' mission in Sudan.

Perthes, as well as AU and IGAD representatives, agreed with military officials to launch "direct talks" among Sudanese factions next week.

On Sunday, Burhan lifted a state of emergency in force since the coup to set the stage for "meaningful dialogue that achieves stability for the transitional period".

Since April, Sudanese authorities have released several civilian leaders and pro-democracy activists.
Percival Kofi Akpaloo, the presidential candidate for the Liberty Party of Ghana (LPG) has revealed that the surest way to break the duopoly of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is to vote for LPG.

He stressed that Ghanaians must trust the LPG to ensure that they break NPP and NDC duopoly to relieve Ghanaians from bad governance that has plagued them for many years.

Im pleading with Ghanaians to give us power in 2024 so we can break the duopoly of NPP, and NDC so that LPG will give Ghanaians a better life, he stated.

According to him, the continuous reliance on the two main political parties for support during elections is fuelling the long-standing duopoly and that could destroy Ghanas multi-party democracy.

He expressed worry about the continuous dominance of the NPP and the NDC, a situation, Kofi Akpaloo said created the impression as though Ghana practised a two-party system.

Kofi Akpaloo argued that minority parties like LPG played instrumental roles in strengthening the countrys democracy and called for deeper collaboration among the minority parties to break the cycle of the two main political parties.

He also underscored the need for the minority parties to be self-reliant by exploring innovative ways to raise funds to support their activities.

The position of the LPG as a formidable political party cannot be underestimated despite the many challenges the party faces like most minority parties. The countrys political space is gradually becoming polarised and seems to becoming a two-party state which is detrimental to our accepted multi-party democracy, Kofi Akpaloo told Accra-based Kingdom FM.

He added, the time has come for all Ghanaians who believe in the Kofi Akpaloo ideology to unite and build a formidable force to wrest power from the ruling NPP.

Kofi Akpaloo said the continuous dominance of the two major political parties threatened the survival of small political parties and the general stability of the multi-party system.
The former National Coordinator for the Teacher Trainee Association of Ghana (TTAG), Mr Joshua Owusu Yeboah has questioned the authenticity of a story published by Volta Webpage, (blogger) on an alleged trainee who has impregnated 24 girls including his headteacher and additional three female teachers during his teaching practice period.

According to him, the story is not only false but also an attempt to tarnish the image of teachers in the country.

He expressed his displeasure on how some media houses and social media influencers publish stories about teachers without making a fact-check.

"This fallacious story has been trending since yesterday, and it saddens me that even if there wouldn't be a fact-check, a simple analysis of the story would help you to know the malicious intention of the publisher," he stated.

In the early hours of Friday, June 3, 2022, a story published by one Sir Obed Fiave of voltawebpage.com indicated that a teacher trainee on teaching practice impregnated 24 girls, a headmistress and four female teachers.

But Mr Joshua who is not happy about the attempt by some bloggers to tarnish the image of teachers in Ghana, said because of supervision, the proximity of colleges is taken into consideration before trainees are allowed to embark on teaching practice in any basic school, and there was no way a college in the Western region will allow its student to do their teaching practice in Ashanti Region.

"It must also be put on record that the only College in the Western region is Holy Child College of Education, which is also a single-sex ( women) College. Is the publisher trying to insinuate that a female teacher trainee has impregnated 24 of her fellow gender?" he questioned

He added that trainees as of now are not doing their teaching practice so it makes it hard to believe the story.

"Trainees have only embarked on one teaching practise after the introduction of the BED programme excluding their weekly STS, and it lasted for only four months in 2021. So, no trainee as of now is doing his/her teaching practice", he added.

He finally expressed his dissatisfaction with how this story would tarnish the image of teachers and called on teacher unions to arrest the publisher if found culpable.
African countries needing to fill the gap created by a lack of Russian and Ukrainian food imports must look outside the typical sphere of economic aid, says UN Assistant Secretary General Ahunna Eziakonwa after a five-day mission to Japan.

Eziakonwa, also the UN Development Programme (UNDP) regional director for Africa, spoke of the unique role government and private sector partners in Japan could play in support of African countries.

Reinforced multilateralism and strong partnerships, including with Japanese government entities and private sector, will be decisive in supporting African countries' aptitude to respond to the new economic shocks caused by the war in Ukraine, she said.

Japan has played a strategic role to increase food security on the African continent, and aims to do more, according to the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

Rice revolution

JICA is also concerned about the present situation of the global food crisis. What we can do is enhance food capacities on the African continent by utilizing our strengths, our advantages, and that is rice production  Japan is rice country, says Shinjiro Amameishi, who works on JICA's agricultural development department.

This aid from JICA comes directly under Japan's Foreign Ministry. And while the group is not directly involved in diplomatic policies, Amameishi says supporting rice development in Sub-Saharan Africa is key.

Japan has been working on a three-phase program that began in 2008 with the Coalition for African Rice Development (CARD) in order to increase rice production for the domestic market throughout the continent.

JICA, along with a number of bilateral and multilateral donors and research institutions, makes up the consultative group.

CARD started with 23 member countries on the continent and has grown to 32 countries.

It achieved its first goal of doubling rice production from 14 million tons in Sub-Saharan African by 2018, surpassing the target with a yield of 31 million tons in 2018.

Tanzania

However, agricultural assistance and technology transfer to the African continent is nothing new for Japan. JICA began giving consistent technical assistance to Tanzanian farmers in Moshi, at the foot of Kilimanjaro, in the 1970s.

Tanzania's rice production ranks third on the African continent, with it also exporting to neighbouring countries. Its yield comes from a combination of irrigated fields as well as lowland and upland rain-fed rice paddies.

JICA plans to create seven training centres that fall under the Tanzanian Ministry of Agriculture that provides training for various climates within the country.

In the past, farmers in Moshi have complained that they have not had support from the government, arguing that tariff-free rice from Asia has flooded the market in the past, ruining some farmers.

Each African country is supposed to make its own strategies and promote domestic rice production, says JICA's Amameishi.

We are not in the position to forcibly influence the government stance, but what we are doing is giving support to the local farmer, he tells RFI.

If they are importing rice from outside, the domestic production should be increased and the quality should be increased.

Senegal

Senegal, one of the most important rice producers on the continent, has worked with JICA and JICA-supported rice development on boosting productivity and rice quality. The Japanese development agency has been working to increase irrigation.

In Senegal rainfall is limited, but there is water coming from rivers in the north, says Amameishi, speaking about the JICA work in hydro-agricultural developments of the Senegal River Valley between Saint Louis, Podor, and Bakel.

JICA believes this area will contribute some 60 percent of total rice production under the Senegalese Agriculture Acceleration Program.

The agency is working to improve and extend rice cultivation techniques, including the double cropping system, which means a farmer can produce rice twice a year; before, they only produced rice once a year.

Farming technology

From his experience living in Tanzania and Senegal, Amameishi has worked with farmers who want to mechanise their work more, but admits there are a few barriers to trade, even though they have had clearance from African countries to bring Japanese farm equipment to the African continent.

From a business aspect, it's not so easy. Japanese quality is nicer, but the problem is the price, he says.

Part of the second phase of the CARD program is to create regional hubs for agricultural mechanization.

Most of the machines African farmers use are made in China and India, which is cheaper.

We are trying to attract Japanese companies to come to Africa to start business activities, Amameishi says.

We have to make a distribution network. If in the future the demand is bigger, then they will start, but at present it's too small.

More options between Japan and the African continent will be discussed at the eighth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) slated to take place in Tunisia from 27-28 August, 2022.
The Speaker of Ghana's Parliament, Rt.Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin is leading a Ghanaian delegation to the 52nd Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) African Region Conference taking place in Freetown, Sierra Leone, from 03 to 09 June, 2022.

The delegation will represent Ghana's interests, inclusive of Parliament in the Conference and related meetings under the theme, The role of African Parliaments in building an inclusive society to counter growing insecurity in Africa, with a view to explore and share ideas and perspectives on how to strengthen democracy in Africa.

Mr Bagbin, a seasoned legislator who recently retired from his MPship slot, only to be elected Speaker, is expected to address the session on ways to strengthen parliamentary democracy in Ghana and the African sub-region.

Having garnered more than two decades experience as an MP representing the people of Nadowli-Kaleo, Mr Bagbin was elected on the eve of January 7, 2021 as Speaker of Ghana's Parliament.

During his tenure as Speaker, he has been able to enhance the image of Parliament and has restored the lost hope of Ghanaians in the legislature.

Since the return of the country to multi-party democracy in 1993, previous Parliament's have been described as a rubber stamp of the executive being the first opposition member to be elected to serve as a Speaker in a government other than his party, and his nationalism has endeared him to the hearts of the general populace.

The African Region of the CPA comprises of 63 national and subnational legislatures with a mission to promote and protect the interests and perspectives of African Parliaments and countries, into the Commonwealth and beyond, and to promote gender equality, emancipation of women, and respect for human rights, freedoms, democracy and good governance.

The conference is hosted by the Parliament of Sierra Leone in collaboration with the CPA Africa Region Secretariat, and brings together 400 delegates, observers and other participants from CPA Africa Region Member States (Branches) including; Ghana, Botswana, Lesotho, Zambia, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Mauritius, Nigeria, South Africa, Eswatini, Cameroon, Namibia, Malawi and Tanzania, as well as sixteen Sub Branches; Nine from South Africa and Seven from Nigeria.

The Conference will be opened officially on Monday, 06 June 2022, at the Freetown International Conference Center, at the Bintumani Hotel, in Aberdeen, Freetown.

The Ghanain delegation will participate in the plenary and side meetings of various committees including; Executive Committee, Commonwealth Womens Parliament Steering Sub Committee, Constitutional Amendment Ad hoc Sub Committee, Regional Representatives Sub Committee, and Programme Planning and Finance Sub Committee.

The high-level delegation led by Rt Hon Bagbin includes the leaders from both sides of the house , Majority Leader, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu and the Minority Leader, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu.

In accordance with rule 15 (1) and (2) of the Regional Conference Preparation Guidelines, the CPA's approved party representation formula for Parliamentary representatives for Ghana's delegation are:

. Mr Cyril Nsiah: Clerk to Ghana's Parliament

. Mr Richard Acheampong: Head of Speakers Secreteriat .

. Mr Camillo Pwamang: Member of the CPA Secretariat

. Ms Sheba Osei: Head, Parliamentary Relations.

. Ms Akua Osei-Somuah: Senior Asstant Clerk and one more member from speakers office.

. Hon Mahama Shaibu: Speakers Office.

The Ghanaian delegation is expected to deliberate on the following topics:

 Strengthening Parliamentary Visibility: Parliamentary Efforts in Resource Allocation for Purposes of

Executing its Constitutional Mandate,

 Evolving and Adapting New Strategies for Increased Women Participation in Politics,

 The Role of African Parliaments in Accelerating Intra-Africa Trade,

 Mobilizing Regional, International Coordination and Cooperation to Respond to COVID-19 and Future Pandemics,

 Drawing Lessons from Covid-19 to Build Foundations for Future Pandemics

The CPA was founded in 1911 at a meeting of Heads of Government in Westminster Hall as the then-Empire Parliamentary Association and its affairs were administered by the UK Branch. The original members were Australia, Canada, Newfoundland, New Zealand, South Africa and the United Kingdom.
05.06.2022 LISTEN

Humanists condemn the murder of a man for blasphemy in Abuja. According to a news report, some muslims killed this man, who belonged to a vigilante group, at the Federal Housing Estate following some exchange of words with members of the group. As in the case of Deborah Samuel, a Christian woman killed for blasphemy in Sokoto in May, some Muslims mobilized and beat the alleged blasphemer to death. They later burnt the corpse. There has been no arrest of suspected killers of the alleged blasphemer. Recently, there have been rampant cases of blasphemy allegations in Northern Nigeria. People accused of blasphemy have been threatened, attacked, summarily executed, or imprisoned in Kano, Sokoto, Bornu, and now in Abuja. In most cases, perpetrators of blasphemy-related attacks go scot-free. They are not arrested. If they are arrested, they are not prosecuted. Even when they are arraigned, they are later discharged and acquitted.

In Muslim communities, those who attack or kill suspected blasphemers are treated as heroes, as defenders of the Islamic faith, not criminals. Thus, Muslims have no qualms killing any real or imagined blasphemers.

Muslims attack and murder alleged blasphemers with impunity because the Islamic establishment sanctions and sanctifies these savage acts. Muslim leaders enable these horrific abuses through their actions, inactions and reactions whenever these atrocities are committed. They make pronouncements and declarations to justify blasphemy-related murders. Muslim clerics openly and publicly call for the killing of anybody suspected to have disparaged Islam or its prophet. The Nigerian police and other security agencies have caved into pressure from jihadists and Islamists. They turn a blind eye to these killings because they do not want to offend the Islamic authorities. Many state officers are jihadists or Islamist sympathizers; they support the killing of those who make blasphemous statements. They regard killing a blasphemer as a religious duty that would earn them a place in paradise, not an offense against the state.

It is important to get the Muslim community in Nigeria to understand that blasphemy killings undermine Islam now and in the future. Muslims who kill suspected blasphemers are killing the religion of Islam. These horrific murders are not doing Islam any good. Blasphemy killings negatively affect the perception of the faith of Islam, and the treatment of Muslims across the country and beyond. These killings reinforce the notion that Islam is a violent religion, and that Muslims are intolerant. Blasphemy-related attacks are likely to provoke revenge attacks and retaliations against Muslims, especially in places where Muslims are in the minority.

Since Muslims easily interpret any statements or expressions as blasphemous and resort to attacking and killing those who made such statements, it will become increasingly difficult to freely interact, communicate, and exchange ideas, debate, or discuss with Muslims. It will be difficult for Muslims to preach, or be allowed to publicly present their religion. Muslim leaders should begin the process of reorienting their members and getting them to abandon this violent tendency and inclination to attack or kill any suspected blasphemer.

By Leo Igwe
As part of the 43rd June 4th anniversary celebration, the NDC organized a clean-up exercise in the Awutu Senya Constituency led by Stephen Ofosu Agyare, the Constituency Chairman. Party faithful in the Constituency turned out in their numbers at the Mother & Child Hospital, an edifice built by the former President, John Dramani Mahama, where they weeded and cleaned up the hospitals surroundings as part of the activities to mark the anniversary.

The honorable Chairman donated essential items like soft drinks, toiletries and many others to the hospital. In addition to this, he catered for the hospital bills of patients who were detained as a result of their inability to pay their medical bills. The payments ranged from as low as GHS45.00 to as high as GHS1000.00.This situation proves the current economic hardship Ghanaians have to cope with. Indeed, prices of goods and services have shot up so badly that families are barely surviving. It is no wonder, but definitely, a sad turn of events, that hospital bills as low as GHS45.00 for patients in the Mother & Child Hospital in Kasoa are above their strength.

Some members of the NDC present at the hospital during the donations seized the opportunity to donate blood to increase the stock at the blood bank of the hospital.

In an interview with journalists present, the Chairman said that the NPPs promise of one district one factory is a scam because there is no single factory in Kasoa and other parts of the country built by the NPP government since they assumed power. The promise of one constituency one million dollars also hasn't materialized.

He appealed to the people of the constituency and the country at large to vote massively for the NDC and John Mahama in the coming general elections in 2024 to rescue this country from the hands of corrupt men who only care about themselves, family and friends, and not the wellbeing of the Ghanaian people.

He said that the current hardship in the country is unprecedented and added that such hardship was what sparked the June 4 revolution, which values are premised on probity, accountability and transparency.

He spoke about how COVID funds donated to Ghana were shared among top NPP leaders and how bad governance has been in the country so far.

He stated unequivocally that a John Mahama government will correct all the deadly blunders this government is committing and has urged the people of Ghana to keep hope alive since there is an opportunity for them to vote out the corrupt NPP government in 2024.

By Waterz Yidana

Playwright/Poet
05.06.2022 LISTEN

Nothing, not even the egregious grand-larceny now being revealed in the wills of some of our dearly departed big-thieves-in-high-places, can justify a military coup in Ghana. Do we not have the right to vote out ruling political parties that disappoint us, every four years, I ask?

Has the government of President Akufo-Addo not got two more years to redeem itself? Haaba. Those discerning and patriotic Ghanaians, who are now sick and tired of the intolerable greed that drives some of those who dominate our nation, must be more creative in the fight against corruption. Full stop.

Why do they, for example, not collaborate with online platforms, with a global reach, such as The Intercept, to expose the high-level corruption holding back the transformation of our homeland Ghana - since our ruling elites fear nothing more than international opprobrium?

Furthermore, why do they not promise to incentivise whistleblowing, by guaranteeing indemnity from prosecution, for all whistleblowers, and, adding a 25 per cent reward, for whistleblowing, which leads to the recovery of stolen public funds - and campaign to win power, to deploy those selfsame ideas to end high-level corruption in this beautiful and peaceful African nation, lucky to have an aspirational citizenry, committed to peaceful coexistence between neighbours?

If those who are now lining up to participate in the ongoing brutal gang-rape of Mother Ghana don't change their evil ways. In that case, one boldly predicts that we will eventually begin to see Robin-Hood-terrorism in Ghana, in which the worst big-thieves-in-high-places are regularly assassinated, in reprisals, oooo, Ghanafuo. Yoooooo.

Amongst its many victims will be judges perceived to be aiding and abetting the project to create a tyranny-of-the-majority, senior public servants amassing inexplicable wealth, and many, many government ministers, and their private-sector regime-crony-business-cohorts.

Finally, in light of all the above, for the sake of Mother Ghana, let us all boldly speak out against the bad-faith-manoeuvring, now being used to create a tyranny-of-the-majority, which frequently passes egregious rail-roaded-legislation, to legalise self-serving-illegalities, such as the Agyapa gold royalties SPAC. Military coups only create new jackbooted-tyrants accountable to no one - who will end up being even more corrupt than today's big-thieves-in-high-places, as sure as day follows night, and, worst of all, won't hesitate to kill dissenters, to silence them permanently. Yoooooooo. Ghanafuo: A word to the wise...
Kenyan water trader Bernard Irungu speaks about how donkeys have been cructal in his water business on the outskirts of Naivasha town, northwest of Nairobi. They have helped him pay rent, school fees, and buy food. All that changed when his donkeys started disappearing three years ago.

"One morning two donkeys I used to work with went missing. A month later I bought two more donkeys and after a year, they also disappeared, says Irungu.

He bought more donkeys from his savings in order to be able to continue his business.

"These ones disappeared completely. I even didn't find their remains, he says. He was so worried about his remaining donkeys, his family slept outside to protect them.

Another Kenyan water trader, Joseph Thendu, speaks about his love for his donkeys. They have also been instrumental in his water business in nearby Mirera village, outside of Naivasha town. His donkeys started disappearing three years ago, too.

After losing eight donkeys in three years, he's at a loss, and cannot restart his business without them.

In the past, when donkeys were stolen, if you went around various places, you could find them loitering around streets and villages, he says.

Both water traders say the rise of donkey abattoirs in Kenya has changed their lives.

Donkey abattoirs

The Kenya Meat Act of 1999 lists donkeys as one of the animals that can be processed for meat, giving abattoir owners a legal environment in which to operate.

Before the introduction of abattoirs, donkeys were a regular feature in towns, many walking around free. Reared to be used for work in poor rural communities, donkeys were a mainstay of the population.

A number of Chinese businesspeople opened abattoirs in Kenya because donkey-skin-based products are in high demand in the Chinese market, according to Raphael Ngome, supervisor at the Kenya Society for the Protection of Animals in Naivasha sub county.

After the introduction of abattoirs, the number of donkeys went down and also theft among donkey owners and users in these towns escalated, Ngome tells Africa Calling.

He said that donkeys had been stolen because their hides are used to make beauty potions.

The main product we have heard is the donkey skin which is used to make cosmetics  and there's also another Chinese product called Ejao, he says.

Residents told Africa Calling that Chinese abattoir owners originally told them that they would take only injured and old donkeys for processing, but when there were none to be found, they started buying healthy, younger donkeys.

Water vendor Thendu says that donkeys started disappearing when the local abattoir opened.

"Personally, I have lost eight donkeys in total, I remember losing six of them in one day and that brought me down completely," he adds.

"When my neighbour's donkeys were stolen I followed up and found them at the slaughterhouse. That means they were stolen and sold at the abattoir," adds Thendu.

Within four years, Kenya had lost an estimated 700,000 donkeys, according to the most recent figures.

Communities are grappling with increased incidents of donkey theft and high prices when trying to replace stolen donkeys, says Dr Raphael Kinoti, a director at Brooke East Africa, an organisation which deals with donkey and zebra welfare.

When the abattoirs came and started taking in donkeys for slaughter, within three months there was a strain in terms of numbers of donkeys because then the source was already depleted, says Kinoti.

Donkeys ferry water from one place to another, and they are valuable for their owners, but the rise in abattoirs was fueling theft and illegal slaughter of these beasts of burden, says Kinoti.

A future with donkeys?

When Kenyan donkey owners refused to sell their animals to the abattoirs, Kinoti says donkey rustlers stole donkeys in neighbouring countries and brought them to Kenya.

In 2020, the Kenyan agricultural ministry shut down the abattoirs after an outcry from communities and animal welfare organisations. The four slaughterhouses operated in Baringo, Machakos, Nakuru, and Turkana counties, killing up to 1,260 donkeys per day.

Africa Calling approached a number of abattoir operators, who declined to be interviewed.

That's where we are for now, though the Chinese traders are also really pushing to reopen the slaughterhouses and continue the slaughter of donkeys, says Kinoti.

This story was originally a report for the podcast Africa Calling.
A regional court has sentenced Colombian President Ivan Duque to five days of house arrest, local media reported on Saturday.

The court in the western city of Ibague also fined Duque the equivalent of 15 times the monthly minimum wage, Colombian daily El Espectador reported.

According to the newspaper, Duque had not complied with a Supreme Court order for the government to protect a national park.

The Caracol broadcaster reported that animals and plants had been trafficked from the protected area of the Los Nevados National Park, which is important for water supplies.

According to the reports, Duque gave assurances during a speech in the northern city of Monteria that his government was committed to biodiversity and to the protection of the Los Nevados Park. He decried the house arrest order as unconstitutional.

GNA
With the votes of the ruling Socialists, the Albanian parliament has elected the former army chief Bajram Begaj as president of the country.

On Saturday, 78 of 140 deputies voted for the 55-year-old military doctor. There were four votes against and one abstention, the ATA news agency reported. The right-wing opposition boycotted the election.

Begaj graduated in general medicine in Tirana and became a military doctor. In the armed forces, he became commander-in-chief of the medical service. He was also head of the Training and Doctrine Command.

He became commander-in-chief of the Albanian armed forces almost two years ago.

The Balkan country has been a member of NATO since 2009.

Begaj replaces President Ilir Meta, who was elected five years ago. He had also been supported by the Socialists but had fallen out with Prime Minister Edi Rama.

Impeachment proceedings initiated by the Socialists shortly before the end of Meta's term failed because the Constitutional Court did not consider his dismissal justified.

Begaj had been nominated by the Socialists for the highest office of state only shortly before Saturday's vote. Three ballots had failed in the days before.

Saturday's ballot was the first in which the 50% majority in parliament was sufficient for a successful election.

Meta signed the document dismissing Begaj, who held the rank of major general, from the military shortly before the election. The Albanian constitution prohibits military personnel from holding high state office.

The head of state in Albania tends to have only ceremonial powers.

GNA
A delegation of key actors within the countrys security architecture led by Honourable Albert Kan-Dapaah, Minister for National Security, on 2 nd June 2022, embarked on a tour of the Upper East Region to conduct security assessments towards enhancing counter-terrorism operations to respond adequately to the growing threats of terrorism from the Sahel region.

Accompanying the Minister were Edward Asomani, Deputy National Security Coordinator; Major General Thomas Oppong Peprah, Chief of Army Staff; Air Vice-Marshal Frank Hanson, Chief of Air Staff; and Brig Gen Moses Mohammed Aryee, General Officer Commanding (GOC), Northern Command.

Areas visited included Pulimakom, Mognori and Bawku. At Pulimakom, the delegation inspected the survey and boundary pillars between Ghana and Togo, and urged the Ghana Boundary Commission to expedite action to improve the visibility of existing boundary pillars, and replace the destroyed boundary pillars to ensure that operations conducted in border communities did not threaten the territorial integrity of neighbouring Togo.

The delegation bemoaned the active encroachment of both Ghanaians and Togolese on buffer zones between the two countries and urged the Border Security (BORSEC) to bolster efforts to protect the buffer zones from further encroachment while putting a stop to all construction works within the zone.

Subsequently, the delegation met with the members of the Upper East Regional Security Council, led by Hon Stephen Yakubu, Regional Minister, to discuss key issues of security concern in the region.

The Minister of National Security in his address to the members of REGSEC highlighted the need to enhance collaboration and intelligence sharing while sustaining ongoing public awareness campaigns at the regional level to enhance ongoing efforts aimed at addressing the growing threat of terrorism.

The delegation further visited the barracks and some Forward Operating Bases of the XI Mechanised Battalion where the Minister interacted with Security personnel in the area and expressed appreciation for their efforts in protecting the country from the infiltration of terrorists and violent extremists.

Reiterating the commitment of the Ministry of National Security to supporting ongoing counter-terrorism operations, particularly along the northern land frontiers of the country, the Minister for National Security encouraged the security personnel to keep up their good work and promised that the needed logistics and funds would be provided to support ongoing operations.
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05.06.2022 LISTEN

Four persons have sustained gunshot wounds after a clash between some men in military uniforms and a youth group at Zabarama line in the Ablekuma Central municipality.

The men in uniform were said to have attempted to demolish a structure being built on disputed land.

But after meeting stiff resistance from the youth who claimed to be relatives of the owner and caretakers of the project, the supposed military officers fired gunshots, injuring four of them.

There is more in the following report: Contractors were busy securing the land and rebuilding the structures that were destroyed by the alleged military men at the time of Citi News visit.

The group of men who resisted their activity were readying themselves to have a feast of goat meat in what looked like a celebration of their successful resistance.

According to them, they are relatives to the owner of the land who is developing it into a commercial property.

They claim he has tasked them to take care of the land and oversee the construction process. They appeared angered by the actions of the supposed military officers, hours after the incident.

The supposed military men according to the youth had come to the area on Saturday to carry out a demolition of the construction work carried out on the project site so far.

Videos of the incident shared with Citi News revealed the young men struggling with the supposed military officers, attacking their cars, throwing stones at them and with sound of gunshots in the background.

One eyewitness said the alleged military officers were instigated by the actions of the youth.

Four members of the youth group were shot in the process.

Two are said to have been released, while the other two have been sent to the Korle bu Teaching Hospital and the 37 military hospital for further treatment.

The incident happened as a result of an aged long dispute on the said land.

The Chief of Sempe, Darul Salam also called Zabarama line Chief Issifu Abdul who is one of the litigants in the matter says this is not the first time the community is receiving a visit from the supposed military officers.

Attempts to reach the other litigants in the matter were unsuccessful, as sources to the family say the leaders were unavailable for comments at the time of filing this report.

Meanwhile, some of the soldiers captured in the video have been apprehended by the Dansoman Police.

Citi News sources close to the police have confirmed the arrest and revealed that out of the three men arrested, only one has been confirmed as a military officer.

---citinewsroom
The north of the West African country is predominantly Muslim, while the south is predominantly Christian.

Gunmen storm a church in the Nigerian city of Owo during Sunday's Pentecost service. The governor speaks of a "heinous" attack - who is behind it is still unclear.

Dozens of people were killed in an attack on a Catholic Church in southwestern Nigeria on Pentecost Sunday. According to the Ondo-State government, the attack happened in the town of Owo during Sunday services at St. Francis Church.

A group of unknown gunmen stormed the church and fired indiscriminately at those attending the service, a local resident told a German press agency. According to media reports, explosives were also detonated in the attack.

The exact number of victims is unclear so far. The Ondo-State government did not provide details on the number of dead. The online publication People's Gazette quoted a state legislator as saying 28 people were killed. Some local media, such as the Nigerian Tribune, spoke of about 50 dead.

Ondo-State Governor Rotimi Akeredolu described the attack as "heinous and satanic," adding that, it is a calculated attack on the peace-loving people of Owo.

A video recording purporting to show the scene has been circulating on social media. On it, apparently dead people can be seen lying on the ground covered in blood - including children.

So far, no group has claimed responsibility for the attack. Local residents suspect that the attack was carried out by extremists from northern Nigeria.

Jihadist groups have carried out many attacks on churches in Nigeria's predominantly Muslim north in recent years. This is the first time an attack has been carried out on a church in the predominantly Christian south. Religious conflicts, especially between Muslims and Christians, are a recurring occurrence in the West African country with a population of around 206 million.
Since the dawn of independence, the Fourth Estate has been vibrant in Ghanaian politics. The role of the media in our politics was vividly exemplified by the contestation between such opposition media as the Ashanti Pioneer and that of the ruling partyThe Evening Standard---during the immediate post-independence era.

Since this era, the publics access to the media have grown exponentially, while their role and influence in the politics of the country have reached unimaginable heights, especially, with the emergence of social media.

While the media have highlighted myriad issues in our political firmament, the one issue that appears to be outstanding is the role they have played in sensitizing the electorate to the importance of holding politicians and political parties to account with regard to the promises they make in their manifestos.

Even though the Ghanaian media have always been vibrant, under no regime has this new found investigative role of the media been more visible and eloquent than during President Akufo-Addos administration.

Due to the relentless onslaught of social media in shining the light on shenanigans in governance in general, the current obsession in social media is the apparent frustration of Ghanaians regarding the current administrations failure to fulfil the numerous promises it made via the partys manifesto during the 2016 electioneering campaign.

Manifestos are aspirational goals and are the hallmark of the competitive politics we inherited from the colonial project with its underlying individualist ethos. As citizens, as opposed to being subjects in the pre-colonial governance setup, the electorate always reserve the right to know what the competing political parties intend to do with our resources to meet our developmental needs and wants.

Significantly, this right in the modern state contrasts sharply with the situation in the pre-colonial traditional states where no such right existed because whoever the kingmakers agreed to install as the Chief or King did not have to convince the populace about what they intended to do for them.

Thus, manifestos or promises are a central feature of modern governance and nobody can fault any candidate for public office for making promises about what they intend to accomplish in office once the electorate give them the mandate to rule.

But, the problem Ghanaians seem to have with the current Presidents promises is that within the context of our constitutionally-stipulated presidential term limit and resource constraints, the promises he made as a candidate were not only too many, but most poignantly, unrealistic.

Interestingly, in a previous life when I was part of a Coffee House group who met occasionally to discuss issues in African politics, I had always taken a critical stance on the importance of manifestos in Africas electioneering campaigns.

The premise of my critical stance against manifestos was that the quantity and quality of Africas literacy made such documents superfluous and unnecessary in our context. My argument was, and has always been that manifestos are essentially the preserve of the elite who are in the minority in African populations.

In fact, in the developed world where the quality and quantity of literacy are optimal, manifestos always reflect the opinions of the electorates solicited through focus groups that represent a cross section of opinions in the universe of the electorate.

This situation of scientifically selecting the opinions of the voting public as a basis of manifestos in the developed world hardly is the case in our part of the world where the elite tend to reason for the voting public and impose on them what they think they need and want.

The above-mentioned nuances notwithstanding, the situation where a presidents feet have been held to the fire for not fulfilling the promises contained in his partys manifesto as has been the case with the current President is unprecedented in our political history.

Truth be told, there is hardly a country in the world where a manifesto has been entirely fulfilled. To the extent that this is true, the brouhaha about President Akufo-Addos promises underscores two important facts about our contemporary politics.

First, the polarization that characterizes our Winner-take-all political and electoral dispensation has deepened in recent years due to our increasingly unequal society. Because of the developing nature of our productive forces, like most developing countries, the state happens to be the main source of livelihoods for the majority of Ghanaians.

Because the state, with its limited capacity, is the major employer, the majority of our people see the prevailing inequality as a by-product of corruption, especially official corruption. The net result of this perception is that the contestation for state power has become heightened and even violent as the state becomes the only avenue for wealth accumulation.

Second, and the most important reason why manifestos are playing such an important role in our contemporary politics is the publics increased access to the media, especially, social media. Barely ten years ago, this seismic access to social media by the public was unthinkable.

I cannot overemphasize the prominent role social media have played in shaping the perception that the New Patriotic Party and President Akufo-Addo have failed to fulfil the promises he made to Ghanaians.

What is significant about social medias role in sensitizing the electorate to the importance of manifestos is the rate at which this phenomenon has occurred. In fact, bereft of the insults that some of the social media often resort to and some of the medias obvious partisan agenda, this development should be welcome as a positive development for honesty and sincerity in our governance going forward.

Specifically, social media have contributed to the situation where voters are now sensitive to the importance of holding politicians accountable for the promises they make in their respective manifestos. This role social media are playing in our political firmament can only proliferate going forward.

While Akufo-Addos administration has coincidentally been the exemplar of this investigative role of social media, especially, during his second term, the bashing the President has been receiving should not be a source of joy for any prospective president or political party.

This is because with the exception of a few outliers, social media will continue to shine the light on shenanigans in government regardless of who occupies the throne so politics in our country, and indeed, the world will never be business as usual going forward.

It is needless for me to say that time indeed has proven me wrong for my scepticism about the importance of manifestos in our politics. My previous criticism of the importance of manifestos in our politics wrongly assumed that the Ghanaian voter is frozen in time.

However, recent events, especially, the emergence of social media, have shown that the voters of Ghana have evolved in sophistication and have become well adapted to the intricacies of politics, courtesy of social and other media.

It is within the context of the evolution of the voter with regard to manifestos that I believe the time has come to hold campaign managers, rather than presidents, accountable for the unrealistic promises contained in some political party manifestos.

Presidential candidates, more often than not, look at the bigger picture while on the campaign stump, leaving the minute details of the contents of manifestos to their campaign managers.

In fact, the writing of a manifesto is often delegated to a committee under the supervision of the campaign manager who briefs the candidate accordingly as the campaign unravels.

As experience has shown, campaign managers become some of the biggest beneficiaries of government largess when a political party wins power so in our context they tend to have this the end always justifies the means attitude to manifestos because of their personal interests in winning power.

Why should President Akufo Addo be the butt of endless jokes and hate for not fulfilling the promises in the NPPs manifesto, when the campaign manager during the 2016 campaign who oversaw the design and launch of the manifesto be comfortably ensconced in his government largess?

PROFESSOR ACHEAMPONG YAW AMOATENG, PHD, IS A SOCIOLOGIST BASED IN THE US
06.06.2022 LISTEN

This is the first of a series of thought-provoking write-ups that I will be sharing with the public on my conviction that we can use education to produce the kind of citizens we desire for the future. One of the compelling ways to achieve that is through curriculum reforms.

Mastercard Foundation in July 2020 released a research report on Secondary Education in Africa. in that report, the researchers sought to find out the role of secondary education in ensuring that the youth acquire the skills, knowledge, and competencies necessary to succeed in a dynamic and globalized labour market which now puts a premium on digitalization and automation. The report indicated that despite progress, many youths in Sub-Saharan Africa currently lack the foundational, digital, and 21st-century skills needed to succeed in a changing world of work. The World Bank reports that fewer than 20 percent of students meet minimum proficiency requirements in reading and math during late primary, well below scores in other regions (World Bank, 2018). Also, the report advocated for the provision of flexible pathways for the youth in their education. It recognizes that there are diverse young people pursuing education and hence there should be flexibility in how they progress paying attention to their capabilities. The final highlight for me in the report is on ensuring that the youth receive relevant knowledge and skills for the future. It emphasises that employers in both the formal and informal sectors increasingly demand workers with 21 -century skills such as critical thinking, communication, creative problem solving, resilience, and teamwork. Secondary education in Africa should seek to address these challenges.

This report is worth analysing especially in Ghana. This is because we are in a period of curriculum reforms. We have implemented the Standard-Based Curriculum at Kindergarten to Basic 6 (despite some challenges), we are implementing the Common Core Programme at the Junior High School level, and have kick-started the process of reviewing the secondary school curriculum. This puts Ghana in a pole position to ensure that we use this opportunity to address some of the challenges facing secondary education in the country.

The developers of various educational reforms envisioned two exit points for graduates of secondary education in Ghana. The graduates are either to enter the world of work or continue to tertiary institutions. It is not far-fetched that the current state of our secondary education does not prepare the students for the world of work. On average, 50% qualify to enter tertiary institutions while between 18% to 21% enroll in various tertiary institutions. It is imperative to also note that reports from our tertiary institutions suggest that most of the applicants have problems with numeracy and literacy. This has even necessitated the National Teaching Council (NTC) to propose the institution of an entrance examination in numeracy and literacy at the various colleges of education. The icing on the cake is the mode of assessment which focuses more on the cognitive domain and places less emphasis on other domains. This mode of assessment has resulted in the implementation of a tested curriculum instead of the formal or written curriculum which is supposed to focus on the total development of the student. It also has led to the introduction of teaching methodologies that promotes memorisation at the disadvantage of other progressive pedagogies such as practice-based, problem-oriented, and project pedagogies.

These challenges enumerated calls for a different kind of curriculum for the SHS. In this era of curriculum review, it will be important to include 21st-century skills, focus on numeracy and literacy, promote differentiation and remedial teaching and pay attention to the sequencing of content while integrating cross-cutting issues in the SHS curriculum. We need a document that can truly address the lack of lifelong learning and inadequate preparation of the students for the world of work. To achieve this, the developers of the curriculum should be receptive to ideas from experts and continue to engage broadly during this period.

Chapter Two will look at The Ghanaian Secondary School Graduate I would love to see. Anticipate.

By Peter Anti, IFEST - Ghana
The Padma Bridge project is a dream project for Bangladesh. This bridge is planned to transform connectivity between Bangladesh's southwest and the rest of the country, particularly Dhaka. Several years ago, the World Bank brought suspicions of wrongdoing against this project. The majority of people, including some authorities at the time, believed that the Padma Bridge could not be built without World Bank funding. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, on the other hand, has stated unequivocally that the Padma Bridge can be built on a self-financing basis. At that critical juncture, yes, we can build the Padma Bridge with our own money.

Bangladeshs Padma bridge is scheduled to be inaugurated on June 25. On June 25, the Padma Bridge will be inaugurated in all 64 districts of Bangladesh at the same time. To commemorate the event, there will be similar programs all around the country, including a laser show in Dhaka's Hatirjheel. For five days, special programs will be held in four districts: Munshiganj, Madaripur, Shariatpur, and Dhaka. The inauguration of the Padma Bridge will be open to all parties and international representatives (even World Bank!)

Amidst these, in a rare move, a Pakistan based researcher on Thursday (June 02, 2022) praised the contributions and roles of Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina in building a prosperous Bangladesh.

The Pakistani media has praised Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's confidence, wisdom, and bold choice to build the Padma Bridge with the country's funds ahead of its inauguration.

Dr. Malika-e-Abida Khattak, an educator, researcher, and international analyst in Pakistan's Punjab province, published an article titled "The Story of the Padma Bridge in Bangladesh: Something Bigger Than Just a Bridge?" in Pakistan's most widely read Daily Times.

In a recent article hailing the completion of this massive project, a number of Pakistani English publications referred to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina as the embodiment of Bangladesh's progress. Sheikh Hasina had to navigate through a maze of difficulties, but she arrived at her target and established the truth by firmly facing the conspiracy that was disseminated during the construction of the Padma Bridge, according to the statement.

The international community must also be aware of Bangladesh's ongoing prosperity and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's dedicated service to the country's people. In an article titled "Story of Bangladesh's Padma Bridge: More than a Bridge," Dr Malika-e-Abida Khattak said, "The world got an opportunity to realize once again the capacity of Bangladesh in the Hasina era."

Bangladesh is a country that has demonstrated its strengths on numerous occasions. Bangladesh's economic potential and image have been established all over the world as a result of the construction of the Padma Bridge with its own money.

The intellectual people of Pakistan are no less interested in Padma Bridge. Abida Khattak "Bangladesh's much-anticipated Padma Bridge is a dream project. It is going to be inaugurated on June 25 this month and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will inaugurate the long-awaited bridge at 10 am.

She wrote about the plot against the bridge, stating that the World Bank had withdrawn its guarantee due to bogus allegations of corruption and that other funders had done the same. The future of the Padma Bridge was in jeopardy, and construction work on the bridge was put on hold. Critics burst out laughing, causing a swarm of harsh comments that Sheikh Hasina would never be able to build the bridge.

In the article describing Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina as the epitome of Bangladesh's development, a Pakistani English daily said Sheikh Hasina had to walk through a maze of obstacles to get to her destination and establish the truth by firmly confronting the conspiracy that was spread at the time of the the Padma Bridge's construction. She wrote, "The Padma Bridge bears the signature of Ms Hasina's visionary leadership."

It is true that today the Padma Bridge is not just a bridge. It is a symbol of the dignity of the Bengali nation. The nation that was once ridiculed as a 'bottomless basket', Bangladesh, which was known abroad as a country of poverty and flood plague. There is nothing to underestimate the glory that Sheikh Hasina has created. A successful leader is one who can show the dream to the people and make that dream a reality. The father of the nation showed the Bengali nation the dream of independence, she made that dream a reality. His daughter Sheikh Hasina has also shown the dream to the nation and she has made that dream a reality. This is the difference between Sheikh Hasina and others.

When Bangladesh unveils the now-completed 6.15-kilometre railroad bridge across the mighty Padma in June, it will send a powerful message to the rest of the globe. Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's single greatest success in her 'Golden Decade' in the office is the construction of the Padma Bridge, Bangladesh's largest infrastructure project to date. She was the one who opted to proceed with the roughly $4 billion projects using Bangladesh's own funds after the World Bank made a big fuss over alleged but later debunked corruption allegations.

Sheikh Hasina, the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, decided in a cabinet meeting in July 2012 that the government will fund the construction of the Padma Bridge with Bangladeshi funds. The Canadian Supreme Court dismissed claims of corruption in the Padma Bridge in 2016, calling them "baseless." Bangladesh is a stigma-free country. The Prime Minister's "challenge" was successful.

Few leaders from the Third World would have dared to do what Hasina did. She promised a comprehensive investigation into the corruption charges at initially, but she needed the World Bank funds to get the project off the ground. When the World Bank took too long to provide the monies, she told them to pack their belongings and go.

China and Malaysia offered finance almost away, but Hasina decided to build the bridge with Bangladesh's own funds, citing the country's growing foreign exchange reserves and the flourishing economy as motivation. Some claim she gave the contract to a Chinese firm but refused to take Chinese funds. What a bold decision of a Prime Minister!

Bangladesh is currently on its journey to become a developing country. Furthermore, the Padma Bridge is more than just a bridge; it represents our progress, pride, and superiority. Above all, the fortitude and devotion of Bangabandhu's daughter Sheikh Hasina have resulted in self-dignity, self-identity, and merit. Bangladesh has also made considerable progress in its quest to become one of the world's happiest countries.

Sheikh Hasina has had huge success. This will also be evaluated in the future. There will also be research. Sheikh Hasina has triumphed over the tremendous task of the Padma Bridge. Bangladesh has already progressed to the status of a developing country. The Padma Bridge will expedite the country's progress. This bridge will play a vital role in bringing Bangladesh closer to the developed world. The decision to construct the long-awaited Padma Multipurpose Bridge, which is due to open for traffic on June 25, improved the country's international image and boosted national confidence.

Bangladesh is such a success story, with its people doing incredible feats. A fresh and inspiring chapter titled "Padma Bridge," written by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been added to that incredible story. Bangabandhu's "political will" was important in Bangladesh's formation.

Similarly, Sheikh Hasina's political resolve is at the heart of the Padma Bridge's implementation. It was her unwavering drive to build it, as well as her courage in overcoming many of the adversities that befell it along the road, that allowed the nation to see what it did yesterday: the completion of the bridge's physical framework. The dream of millions of Bangladeshis has come true thanks to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's innovative and proactive leadership. Pakistans Dr Abida Khattak has portrayed the real scenario in her write-up. Thanks to Dr. Malika-e-Abida Khattak. Yes, It's More Than Just a Bridge!!

Samina Akhter is a Dhaka-based freelance writer and women and human rights activist.
June 05, 2022

The MoA Week In Review - (NOT Ukraine) OT 2022-80

Last week's posts at Moon of Alabama:

---

Other issues:

Stagflation:

Crypto scam:

> Since the start of 2021, more than 46,000 people have reported losing over $1 billion in crypto to scams  thats about one out of every four dollars reported lost, more than any other payment method. The median individual reported loss? A whopping $2,600. The top cryptocurrencies people said they used to pay scammers were Bitcoin (70%), Tether (10%), and Ether (9%). <

Shambles:

Southern California ports rank dead last on global efficiency index - Freightways

Use as open (not Ukraine) thread ...

Posted by b on June 5, 2022 at 12:31 UTC | Permalink

Comments

next page 
June 05, 2022 Ukraine Open Thread 2022-81 Only news & views related to the Ukraine conflict ... The open thread for other issues is here. Posted by b on June 5, 2022 at 12:33 UTC | Permalink Comments next page  next page 
BEIJING (AP)  Australia on Sunday said a Chinese fighter jet carried out dangerous maneuvers threatening the safety of one of its maritime surveillance planes over the South China Sea and forcing it to return to the base.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said his government expressed concern to China over the May 26 incident, which the Defense Ministry said took place in international airspace where a Chinese J-16 intercepted a P-8A Poseidon surveillance aircraft on routine patrol.

Defense Minister Richard Marles said the Chinese J-16 flew very close to the Australian plane and released flares and chaff that were ingested by the engines of the Poseidon, a converted Boeing 737-800.

The J-16 ... accelerated and cut across the nose of the P-8, settling in front of the P-8 at very close distance, he told reporters in Melbourne. At that moment, it then released a bundle of chaff, which contains small pieces of aluminium, some of which were ingested into the engine of the P-8 aircraft. Quite obviously, this is very dangerous.

He said the crew of the P-8 responded professionally and returned the aircraft to its base.

There was no official response Sunday from Beijing.

Such incidents are not unprecedented. A collision between a U.S. EP-3 surveillance plane and a Chinese air force jet in April 2001 resulted in the death of the Chinese pilot and the 10-day detention of the U.S. air crew by China.

Relations between Australia and China have been poor for years after Beijing imposed trade barriers and refused high-level exchanges in response to Canberra enacting rules targeting foreign interference in its domestic politics.

Australia and others have also sought to block Chinese inroads into the South Pacific, including Beijing's signing of a security agreement with the Solomon Islands that could result in China's stationing of troops and ships in the archipelago, which lies less than 2,000 kilometers (1,200 miles) from the Australian coast.

Last month's incident comes amid increasingly aggressive behavior by the Chinese military in border areas and at sea targeting planes, ships and land forces from India, Canada, the United States and the Philippines.

In February, Australia said a Chinese navy ship fired a laser also at one of its Poseidon surveillance planes, illuminating it while in flight over Australias northern approaches and endangering the safety of the crew.

China claims the South China Sea virtually in its entirety and has been steadily ratcheting up pressure against other countries with claims to parts of the strategic waterway. That has included construction of military facilities on artificial islands and the harassment of foreign fishing vessels and military missions in the air and international sea.

Earlier this year, U.S. Indo-Pacific commander Adm. John C. Aquilino said China has fully militarized at least three of its island holdings, arming them with anti-ship and anti-aircraft missile systems, laser and jamming equipment, and military aircraft.

The U.S. and its allies have consistently challenged the Chinese claims by staging patrols and military exercises in the area, provoking angry responses from Beijing despite agreements aimed at reducing tensions.

Were operating completely within our rights ... most of our trade traverses the South China Sea, Marles said. This incident will not deter Australia from continuing to engage in these activities, which are within our rights and international law to assure that there is freedom of navigation in the South China Sea, because that is fundamentally in our nations interest.
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Peter Navarro, former trade adviser to President Donald Trump, speaks to reporters as he departs U.S. District Court after he was indicted on two counts of contempt of Congress for his failure to comply with a subpoena from the House of Representatives committee investigating the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol, in Washington, D.C., June 3, 2022.
Flowers, toys, and other objects to remember the victims of the deadliest U.S. school mass shooting in nearly a decade, resulting in the death of 19 children and two teachers, are pictured at the Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, May 30, 2022.
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DHAKA, Bangladesh (AP)  A massive fire at a container depot near a port city in southeastern Bangladesh killed at least 49 people, including nine firefighters, and injured more than 100 others, officials and local media reported Sunday, as efforts to extinguish the blaze continued into a second night.

The inferno at the BM Inland Container Depot, a Dutch-Bangladesh joint venture, broke out around midnight Saturday following explosions in a container full of chemicals. The cause of the fire could not be immediately determined. The depot is located near country's main Chittagong Seaport, 216 kilometers (134 miles) southeast of the capital, Dhaka.

At least nine firefighters were among the dead, according to Brig. Gen. Main Uddin, director general of the Bangladesh fire service and civil defense. More than 10 others were being treated for burns, he added.

Multiple rounds of explosions occurred after the initial blast as the fire continued to spread, Uddin said. Explosives experts from Bangladesh's military have been called in to assist the firefighters. The explosions shattered the windows of nearby buildings and were felt as far as 4 kilometers (2 1/2 miles) away, officials and local media reports said.

The death toll reached 49 by Sunday evening, according to Ekattor TV station, and the area's civil surgeon said the number could still rise as the fire raged for a second night.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina expressed her shock at the accident and ordered adequate arrangement for medical treatment of the injured.

Bangladesh has a history of industrial disasters, including factories catching fire with workers trapped inside. Monitoring groups have blamed corruption and lax enforcement.

Global brands, which employ tens of thousands of low-paid workers in Bangladesh, have come under fire to improve factory conditions in recent years. In the country's massive garment industry, which employs about 4 million people, safety conditions have improved significantly after massive reforms, but experts say accidents could still occur if other sectors do not make similar changes.

In 2012, about 117 workers died when they were trapped behind locked exits in a garment factory in Dhaka.

The countrys worst industrial disaster occurred the following year, when the Rana Plaza garment factory outside Dhaka collapsed, killing more than 1,100 people.

In 2019, a blaze ripped through a 400-year-old area cramped with apartments, shops and warehouses in the oldest part of Dhaka and killed at least 67 people. Another fire in Old Dhaka in a house illegally storing chemicals killed at least 123 people in 2010.

In 2021, a fire at a food and beverage factory outside Dhaka killed at least 52 people, many of whom were trapped inside by an illegally locked door.
An increasing number of deaf and hard-of-hearing kids in the U.S. are receiving cochlear implants  electrical conductors surgically inserted into the inner ear to stimulate the nerve responsible for hearing.

Fewer than 30,000 U.S. children had received cochlear implants by 2010, while an estimated 65,000 children had them by 2019. This is due to continuously improving medical and technological advances in cochlear implantation that make it cheaper and less painful to hear better than they would with other types of devices.

Yet most kids with cochlear implants still need significant help learning to understand and produce spoken language, much less learn material taught in lessons primarily meant for students who can hear. And they often struggle to fit in with peers who were born hearing, sometimes only finding a community that truly understands their lifes journeys upon reaching adulthood and connecting with other people who were born deaf or hard of hearing.

When parents choose to get their child a cochlear implant, they are no doubt making the best choices they can with the information and understanding they have about growing up and living in a world where most people can hear.

But too often they miss out on key support for themselves, and for their kids, from the Deaf community, which I am a part of  as the deaf mother of a deaf son  and which I study professionally. People who are deaf or hard-of-hearing, and those with average hearing all use sign language  the most common of which in the U.S. is American Sign Language  to fully understand and express themselves in ways that go beyond speech, and help each other navigate the challenges presented in a hearing world.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, some of the benefits of having a cochlear implant include being able to understand speech without lip reading, making telephone calls, watching TV and enjoying music.

Many professional websites maintained by hearing implant specialists boast that deaf and hard-of-hearing children can be trained to speak and hear for full integration in their communities.

But these sources leave out key information, such as the common need for assistance in school even after getting a cochlear implant. Their primary focus, as with many consultations with hearing specialists, audiologists and speech therapists, is on helping deaf and hard-of-hearing children learn to listen and speak.

These efforts downplay or ignore the idea that there are other ways deaf and hard-of-hearing people can communicate, without hardship or difficulty. For instance, on the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website section about screening for congenital deafness, the emphasis is on providing deaf and hard-of-hearing children early intervention services to avoid delays in learning to speak. Information on American Sign Language is reached only by clicking to another page and reading through a bullet list of technical jargon like auditory-oral and cued speech.

Over decades, even centuries, the Deaf community in the U.S. and around the world has been ignored, and even repressed, by mainstream hearing society.

As far back as the 19th century, educators of deaf people, such as telephone inventor Alexander Graham Bell, have tended to believe that speaking and listening are critical to functioning in the broader society. As a result, they have discouraged children from learning to sign, even though research shows that if kids can communicate effectively without speaking, theyll be more interested in learning speech.

This resulted in the methods used to teach generations of deaf Americans, including me, at schools for the deaf. I was not allowed to use American Sign Language in the classroom, but rather what was called the Rochester Method, a combination of speech and finger-spelling.

Attendance at these schools, which are mostly residential, has been declining since the 1975 passage of the first federal law requiring public school systems to offer a range of education options for students with different medical or physical conditions, including hearing loss. One option was placement in mainstream schools with aides for assistance.

But public schools arent always good at supporting deaf and hard-of-hearing students, who often struggle to follow along and fit in at school, including classrooms, hallways, cafeterias and recreational spaces  all of which can be very noisy, making it hard to distinguish one persons voice from another.

All this history helps explain why there is so little research about the Deaf community, and why officials and families often dont know much about it.

There is no recent census data or systematic research on the use of American Sign Language. The best figure Ive ever found was published in 2004, when the University of Iowas Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology estimated that between 250,000 and 500,000 people in the U.S.  both deaf and hearing  used American Sign Language.

In my personal and professional experience, this group  the Deaf community  is made up of people who are well equipped to support the mental, emotional and social health of deaf and hard-of-hearing children and their families. They participate fully in society, holding a wide range of jobs unhindered by the limits on their hearing. And they have come to understand the role of deafness in their own identities and lives. The HeART of Deaf Culture website offers a selection of creative works that present profound insight for Deaf identity affirmation.

Yet deaf children who are taught to speak often struggle with language delays through childhood and into adulthood. Teaching them to sign, however, can help them fully express their thoughts, feelings and ideas, and find acceptance and connection with others with similar experiences. I believe these children deserve to be taught to sign, to celebrate their deaf identity.

And many parents of deaf children want more help from the Deaf community than they are able to find. A 2018 survey found that just 27% of hearing families with a deaf child were connected with deaf adults to help support their child.

One parent told the surveyors: I wish we could have a deaf mentor or at least access to a program. I really would like to have a deaf person weekly in our home teaching us. And 8% of parents of deaf children reported wanting access to instruction in American Sign Language.

But there are not enough sign-fluent professionals available to meet that need.

As parents make their decisions about how best to support their deaf and hard-of-hearing children, they will definitely encounter a large number of medical experts, speech therapists and other professionals who want to help their kids function in a world that places a lot of emphasis on hearing. But they should know there is another community available, too, standing ready to help their deaf and hard-of-hearing kids, with or without cochlear implants, gain deeper understanding of themselves and more fully develop their limitless human potential.
BEARDSTOWN  The state fire marshal's office has been asked to assist the Beardstown Fire Department in investigating a fire early Sunday.

Firefighters were called about 12:01 a.m. to the 1400 block of East Sixth Street. An unoccupied single-story house was fully involved when firefighters arrive, according to a fire department report.
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP)  Hundreds of Puerto Ricans crowded into a convention center Saturday where federal legislators held a public hearing to decide the future of the islands political status as the U.S. territory struggles to recover from hurricanes, earthquakes and a deep economic crisis.

One by one, dozens of people ranging from politicians to retirees to young people leaned into a microphone and spoke against the islands current territorial status, which recognizes its people as U.S. citizens but does not allow them to vote in presidential elections, denies them certain federal benefits and allows them one representative in Congress with limited voting powers.

The hearing comes two weeks after a group of Democratic congress members including the House majority leader and one Republican proposed what would be the first-ever binding plebiscite that would offer voters in Puerto Rico three options: statehood, independence or independence with free association, whose terms would be defined following negotiations.

Congress would have to accept Puerto Rico as the 51st state if voters so choose it, but the proposal is not expected to survive in the Senate, where Republicans have long opposed statehood.

Everyone, even congress people themselves, know that the possibilities of this becoming law are minimal and maybe non-existent, but it doesnt stop being important, former Puerto Rico governor Anibal Acevedo Vila told The Associated Press.

About an hour into the hearing, a small group of people including a former gubernatorial candidate who supports independence burst into the ballroom, pointed fingers at the panel of U.S. legislators and yelled, 120 years of colonialism!

The majority of the audience booed the group and yelled at them to leave as U.S. lawmakers called for calm.

Democracy is not always pretty, but its necessary, said Rep. Raul Grijalva of Arizona, chairman of the U.S. House of Natural Resources Committee, which oversees affairs in U.S. territories.

The proposal of a binding plebiscite  a measure that has not yet been introduced in committee  has frustrated some on an island that already has held seven unilateral, nonbinding referendums on its political status, with no overwhelming majority emerging. The last referendum was held in November 2020, with 53% of votes for statehood and 47% against, with only a little more than half of registered voters participating.

Luis Herrero, a political consultant, said during the hearing that even if enough people support statehood, there are not enough votes in the Senate to make Puerto Rico a state: Not today, not yesterday, not tomorrow. Since 1898, Puerto Rican statehood has been a mirage, lip service to score cheap political points or to raise a few dollars for a campaign.

Saturday's hearing comes amid ongoing discontent with Puerto Ricos current political status, with the U.S. Supreme Court further angering many in April after upholding the differential treatment of residents of Puerto Rico. In an 8-1 vote, the court ruled that making Puerto Ricans ineligible for the Supplemental Security Income program, which offers benefits to blind, disabled and older Americans, did not unconstitutionally discriminate against them.

As a result, many of those who spoke at Saturdays public hearing welcomed the proposed binding plebiscite.

We finally see the light at the end of the tunnel, said Victor Perez, a U.S. military veteran who lamented the current political status. Even after all our service and sacrifice, we come back home and we are denied full voting rights and equality. ... We cannot vote for our president, our commander in chief, (but) they send us to war.

Grijalva said the testimonies given Saturday will help him and other legislators revise the proposed measure, which he said is a way to make amends. He said he hopes it will go to the House floor by August. If eventually approved, it would be held on Nov. 5, 2023.

Acevedo, the former governor, said he hasnt lost hope despite numerous attempts throughout the decades to change the political status of Puerto Rico, which became a U.S. territory in 1898 following the Spanish-American War.

A solution to this problem of more than 120 years has to happen at some point, he said. When will conditions allow for it? Thats unpredictable.
KYIV, Ukraine (AP)  Reinforced Russian troops backed by airstrikes pummeled a portion of eastern Ukraine on Saturday, blowing up bridges and shelling apartment buildings as they fought to capture two cities that would put a contested province under Moscow's control, Ukrainian officials said.

Russian and Ukrainian forces battled street-by-street in Sievierodonetsk and neighboring Lysychansk, regional governor Serhiy Haidai said. Russian strikes killed four people, including a mother and child, in the nearby village of Hirske, Haidai said.

The cities are the last major areas of Luhansk province still held by Ukraine. The Russian attacks are central to the Kremlin's reduced wartime goal of seizing the entire Donbas region, where Moscow-backed separatists have fought Ukrainian forces for eight years and established self-proclaimed republics.

Russia also escalated attacks in Donetsk, the other province that makes up the Donbas, the Ukrainian military said as the war reached its 101st day.

Reflecting the close combat, Russian and Ukrainian military officers blamed each other for a fire that destroyed a 1912 wooden church at the Sviatohirsk monastery, one of Ukraine's holiest Orthodox Christian sites. The sprawling, 16th-century monastery, which sits on the bank of the Siverskiy Donets River, has been hit several times previously during the war, most recently on Wednesday, when three monks were killed.

In his nightly video address Saturday, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Russia of deliberately and systematically destroying Ukrainian culture and its historical heritage, along with social infrastructure like housing and everything needed for normal life.

Zelenskyy said 113 churches have been damaged or destroyed during the invasion, including some that survived the battles of World War II.

In recent days Russian forces have focused on capturing Sievierodonetsk, which had a prewar population of about 100,000. At one point they held 90% of the city, but Ukrainian soldiers clawed back some ground, Haidai reported Friday. Zelenskyy described the citys situation as extremely difficult on Saturday.

Western military analysts said Russia was devoting significant troop strength and firepower to what British officials called a creeping advance in the Donbas.

The combined use of air and artillery strikes has been a key factor in Russias recent tactical successes in the region, the U.K. Ministry of Defense said in a Saturday assessment. The ministry warned that after launching so many guided missiles, Russia was employing unguided missiles that have almost certainly caused substantial collateral damage and civilian casualties.

The Ukrainian military reported that it repulsed nine attacks in the Donbas over 24 hours. The claim could not be independently verified.

While Russian forces are concentrated on the Donbas, Ukraine has staged counterattacks to try to regain territory in the south.

After seizing most of the Kherson and Dnipropetrovsk regions, as well as the port city of Mariupol, Moscow has installed local administrators, offered residents Russian passports and taken other steps to consolidate its hold on occupied areas.

Russian shelling killed at least three civilians in the Black Sea port city of Mykolaiv, Mayor Oleksandr Senkevich said Saturday.

The Institute for the Study of War, a Washington-based think tank, said Russian-installed officials and troops face growing resistance among the local population and an increase in partisan activity in southern Ukraine.

The institute cited accounts on Russian Telegram channels of threats against locals who received Russian passports.

The Ukrainian Center for National Resistance, which established a website to advise people on sabotage and other techniques, said Kherson residents were encouraged to burn down a Russian passport center.

The Ukrainian military noted with approval the trouble that occupation authorities were encountering, saying Russian-installed leaders in Kherson were wearing bulletproof vests and traveling in armored vehicles.

In other developments:

 Ukraines foreign minister denounced Frances president for saying the West shouldnt humiliate Russian President Vladimir Putin. French President Emmanuel Macron said in an interview with French newspapers Friday that Putin made a historic error in invading but world powers shouldnt "humiliate Russia, so that when the fighting stops, we can build a way out together via diplomatic paths. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba tweeted in response: Calls to avoid humiliation of Russia can only humiliate France and every other country that would call for it. ... We all better focus on how to put Russia in its place. This will bring peace and save lives.

 The bodies of more than 1,300 civilians have been exhumed so far in the region around Ukraine's capital following Russias military retreat from the area, Ukraines Interior Ministry reported Saturday. The bodies were sent to morgues for forensic examination, and some 200 of the victims have not been identified, ministry spokeswoman Alyona Matveyeva said. Since Russian forces left the region in early April, Ukrainian authorities have been collecting the dead, exhuming bodies from mass graves and collecting evidence for possible war crimes investigations and prosecutions.

 A Russian rocket hit an agricultural site Saturday in the Odesa region, wounding two people, according to a regional military chief. A Russian Defense Ministry spokesman said a missile attack destroyed a base of foreign mercenaries. Odesa is home to Ukraine's largest seaport and therefore vital to the country's ability to ship grain and other commodities. The attack came hours after Kuleba, the foreign minister, tweeted: Ukraine is ready to create necessary conditions to resume exports from the port of Odesa. The question is how to make sure that Russia doesnt abuse the trade route to attack the city."

 Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak said in an interview published Saturday that Russia is suffering significantly fewer military casualties compared with the first six weeks of the war. The lower figures might make Russian commanders think that they are fighting successfully, the website Meduza quoted Podolyak as saying. Speaking on Ukrainian television, he expressed optimism that new Western-supplied weaponry could change the mathematics of the war.

 Pope Francis said he needs to wait for the right moment to go to Ukraine. A Ukrainian refugee who was in a group of children visiting the Vatican asked the pontiff if he would go to his homeland. Francis told the boy he thinks a lot about the children in Ukraine and has a desire to go there. He said its not easy to take a decision that could do more harm to all the world than good. I must find the right moment to do it. The pope said he would discuss the issue next week when Ukrainian government representatives visit the Vatican.

___

Varenytsia and Rosa reported from Sloviansk, Ukraine.

___

Follow AP's coverage of the Ukraine war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine
A financial crisis caused in part by at least $6.9 million paid to settle lawsuits alleging sex abuse at the Masonic Grand Lodge of Texas' Masonic Home and School has led to a convention this weekend where masons will decide the school's fate.

Masons have been invited to a rare state membership convention Saturday in Waco, where they will decide whether to close the Fort Worth school or dip into its $50 million endowment fund to continue running it.

Texas Masons Board president Joseph Regian, responding to questions about the lawsuits, said the settlements have nearly drained cash reserves and account for "50 percent" of the financial problems.

Masonic leaders have mailed thousands of fund-raising letters seeking more than $6 million in donations to make up shortfalls attributed primarily to declining donations and bequests. The letters did not mention the settlements.

Regian told The Dallas Morning News for its Friday editions that confidentiality agreements had prevented him from mentioning the settlements as a major cause of the shortfall to the group's 122,000 Texas members or discussing abuse allegations at the school dating to the 1970s.

The Masons, a fraternal civic organization that has hundreds of thousands of members worldwide, supports dozens of boarding schools across the country and a network of boys clubs.

Public allegations of abuse at the boarding schools or within the Masons organization are uncommon, a check of news archives shows.

Regian and school officials said that students at the Fort Worth school are not abused and that since 1999, administrative safeguards, including background checks of staff members, have been in place to better monitor staff and protect children.

The boarding school serves about 135 students and employs 85 adult "house parents" who live on campus. It was established more than 100 years ago and now operates as a 206-acre nonprofit school district that is not subject to state child welfare inspections.

Masons officials declined to disclose the amount paid starting in 1999 to settle a lawsuit alleging that school caretakers were permitted to sexually abuse about a dozen students.

One sentence in the 600-page Masons financial statement for fiscal 1999 reports $6.9 million in settlements for litigation "in which the negligent hiring, supervision and retention of child care providers was alleged."

The 1999 lawsuit _ which is sealed except for the original complaint _ was filed against Texas Masons and former school director James Stewart on behalf of former student body president Scott Bickle.

Bickle's lawsuit involved at least a dozen other students, his former attorney said. Stewart left the school shortly before Bickle's lawsuit was settled. The lawsuit alleged that school and Masons leaders "had a significant history of documented child sexual abuse at their facility dating as far back as the 1970s" and refused to seek criminal charges "in every confirmed instance of sexual abuse/assault of children residing at the Masonic Home."

Bickle, now a college student living in Plano, declined to discuss his lawsuit or the settlement. He said he feared angering the Masons, who he said still support him with scholarships and other resources.

Bickle's former attorney, Timothy G. Chovanec of Fort Worth, also declined to discuss the lawsuit, citing the confidentiality agreements. He praised the Masons for taking positive steps to protect children since the settlement.

A separate 1994 lawsuit was filed on behalf of former school employee Bryan Butler and 19 children who lived at the home. Butler, who could not be located to comment, said in his lawsuit that he was fired within two weeks of reporting allegations of physical abuse and neglect and sexual abuse of children at the school.

Fort Worth police began an investigation at the Masonic Home and School in 1994. No criminal charges resulting from that investigation could be found.

Regian, again citing the sealed records, declined to say whether any of the allegations in the lawsuits had merit.
Less than a week after winning a defamation lawsuit against his ex-wife Amber Heard, Johnny Depp appears ready to restart his career.

British guitarist Jeff Beck announced a during a concert in Gateshead, England that he will release a new album with the 58-year-old actor, who stood beside him onstage.

The announcement came amid the fallout of the widely-publicized, closely-watched six week trial, during which Depp alleged Heard, 36, defamed him by calling herself a domestic abuse survivor in a 2018 Washington Post op-ed. The jury awarded Depp $15 million in damages and Heard $2 million -- for defamatory comments made by Depp's lawyer Adam Waldman in a Daily Mail article. Legal experts have called the verdict a decisive win for Depp, and it is being celebrated as such by fervent fans online and mourned by others, who see Heard's loss as an sign the #MeToo movement is losing steam.

Beck and Depp's album, which will come out in July, could signal a swift attempt to relaunch Depp's career. During the trial, Depp said that Heard's allegations had damaged his career and led Disney to drop him from "Pirates of the Caribbean 6." "The best is yet to come and a new chapter has finally begun," he said in a statement after the jury returned its verdict.

The publicity surrounding the trial could help Depp with a restart, said Eve Ng, a communications professor at Ohio University and author of "Cancel Culture: A Critical Analysis." "I bet there are people who wouldn't have even looked at this album but now are going to be like, 'I'm going to go out and buy that just to support him," Ng said.

That process could be harder for Heard. She has appeared in multiple films such as "The Rum Diary" and "Pinneapple Express" but wrote in the Post op-ed that friends and advisers told her she would be blacklisted for coming forward with accusations against Depp (who is not named in the piece). Despite starring in "Aquaman," she wrote that she had to fight to keep her role in the sequel and attributed it to "wrath for women who speak out."

"She can't win," said Ng. "If she lays low and waits for it to blow over, then people who think that she deserves all the horrible backlash that she got will have won. . . . But if she tries to come up with a project like Johnny Depp did, her detractors will say, 'Oh, she's just trying to do that to make us forget her terrible behavior.'"

Heard, who accused Depp of physical violence, lamented the outcome of case. Her attorney has said she will appeal the decision. "I'm heartbroken that the mountain of evidence still was not enough to stand up to the disproportionate power, influence, and sway of my ex-husband," Heard said in a statement.

Depp's turn to music is not a total surprise. While he is best known for acting in films such as "Pirates of the Caribbean," "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" and "Alice and Wonderland," before his career in Hollywood, he dropped out of school to become a musician. He played in the short-lived rock band "P," which sometimes featured performers from Red Hot Chili Peppers and Sex Pistols. He has since collaborated with Oasis, Iggy Pop and Marilyn Manson, among others. In 2015, he formed "Hollywood Vampires" with Alice Cooper and Aerosmith's Joe Perry.

At the show in England last Thursday, Depp bowed during Beck's announcement and said that he and Beck met five years before and have "never stopped laughing since." Depp has made multiple appearances onstage during Beck's current tour, and the two released a single together in 2020.

It makes sense for Depp to try to restart his career after the favorable verdict, said Sarah Kovoor, a professor at University of Colorado Denver Business School who researches crisis management. But he should be cautious, she said.

"He has to be very careful that he doesn't shift from victim to villain," she said. "He needs to show that this is not just a PR stunt, that this is something that he has been working on for some time. He needs to make it as if he's moving forward and not trying to cause harm to Heard or anyone else."
Photo by Gabriel Romero

Hill Country residents can head to the H-E-B in Marble Falls to get a taste of the company's latest True Texas BBQ joint. The Marble Falls H-E-B, located at 1503 Highway 1431, is expecting to complete construction on the True Texas BBQ restaurant on August 1, according to a Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation filing.

The store will be 499-square-feet and construction is estimated to cost $400,000. The project started on March 1, according to the filing. There are currently 19 True Texas BBQ restaurants.
Cities and counties in Texas were well represented on a list of the fastest-growing places in the U.S. between 2020-2021, according to population estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau. Between July 1, 2020, and July 1, 2021, eight of the fifteen fastest growing cities in the nation were located in Texas, the data shows.

San Antonio saw the largest numerical growth in population over 12 month period, Census data shows. The city gained 13,626 residents for a total population of 1.45 million, making it the seventh-largest in the nation and the second-most populous city in Texas behind Houston.

Fort Worth had the third-largest growth in population in the U.S., gaining 12,916 people between 2020 and 2021. Frisco gained 7,933 residents in 12 months, the third-highest total in Texas and the eighth-largest increase nationwide. The other Texas cities with the largest increases were New Braunfels (7,538), Georgetown (7,193), Leander (6,159), Denton (5,844) and McKinney (5,586).

While Georgetown did not have the largest numerical increase in population, the Austin-area city had the largest percentage growth in population in the U.S., growing 10.5%, Census data shows. At that rate, the citys population would double in less than seven years, a Census press release said. The city has a population of 75,420, according to Census estimates.

Texas is also home to some of the fastest-growing counties in the U.S., Census data shows. Rockwall County, in the Dallas area, grew the most in the nation between 2020 and 2021 with a population growth of 6.5%. Chambers County (5.7%), Hays and Comal counties (5.2%) and Fort Bend County (5.1%) were all also in the top 10 fastest growing counties in the U.S., according to Census data.

The 15 largest U.S. cities remained the same, although half of the cities saw a decrease in population, according to Census estimates. That includes Houston, which lost 11,777 people between 2020 and 2021, and Dallas, which lost 14,777 people in the same period.

Texas had the third-highest percentage increase in housing units in the 12-month period, growing 2.0% for a total of 11.9 million units. Utah was the state with the fastest growth at 2.7% followed by Idaho at 2.5%. Harris County saw the largest numerical gain in housing units in the country between 2020 and 2021, gaining 34,132 units.
By Lambert Strether of Corrente.

Spoiler: Readers, youll get a throw a flag on the Betteridges Law violation. But Im not completely sure that my chain of logic has no weak links. Please follow me into the wonderful world but minutely detailed world of media critique during wartime.

* * *

Lets begin with President Bidens policy on rockets, by which I mean High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), a wunderwaffe light multiple rocket launcher, four of which we are sending to Ukraine. Biden took the unusual step of writing a New York Times Op-Ed to make his policy clear:

[W]e will provide the Ukrainians with more advanced rocket systems and munitions that will enable them to more precisely strike key targets on the battlefield in Ukraine.

That is, not outside Ukraines borders. (Ukraine does consider Donbas and Crimea within its borders, but most importantly, Biden rules out firing these rockets into Russia or Belarus.) Biden underlines the point:

We are not encouraging or enabling Ukraine to strike beyond its borders.

Ukraine is not thus enabled because the HIMARS platform supports rockets with several ranges, and were only giving them short-range ones:

The officials said the HIMARS will be equipped with munitions that will allow Ukraine to launch rockets about 80 kilometers (49 miles). Some context: That is far less than the maximum range of the systems, which is around 300 kilometers (186 miles), but far greater than anything Ukraine has been sent to date. The M777 Howitzers the US sent to Ukraine last month, for example, marked a significant increase in range and power over previous systems, but even those top out at around 25 kilometers (18 miles) in range.

(OK, Ukraine could fire a rocket 50 miles into Russian territory, causing a diplomatic incident, but not (say) 101 miles from Sumy to Kursk, which would be a full-fledged provocation. One does wonder how many Russian logistics centers are within 50 miles of the border, however.) Nevertheless, the United States seems to be enforcing its policy through technical means, not by relying on Ukrainian assurances, so we havent completely lost our minds. [1]

Now we turn Bridget Brinks ambassadorial imbroglio, if imbroglio it was. Ukraine had been without a US Ambassador for three years. Brink was confirmed by the Senate on May 18, 2022. She presented her credentials to the Ukraine Foreign Ministry on May 30; not, as it would appear from this tweet, on June 2, when she met with Zelensky and seems to have presented her credentials a second time. She held a press conference immediately afterwards, also on June 2.

At the June 2 presser, Brink is reported in some sources to have made the following statement:

President Biden yesterday signed a $700 million military aid package that includes HIMARS long-range artillery. This will help Ukrainian forces to deliver more accurate strikes and [shoot] to a greater distance. So the Ukrainian troops will decide what distance to shoot , she said.

You will see at once that Ukrainian troops will decide what distance to shoot directly contradicts Bidens policy that We are not encouraging or enabling Ukraine to strike beyond its borders. So this is a diplomatic gaffe of the first water, but only if it was made, and only if it was not intended to be made.

There is no transcript of the presser on the US Embassy in Ukraines site. (Oddly, theres not even a press release on Brink presenting her credentials. Or anything on Brink at all after April 25, the day her nomination was announced.) I can find no larger transcript that includes the quote[2]. AP reported briefly on the presser on June 2, but doesnt include or mention the quote. The Canada-funded Kyiv Independent covered the presser but doesnt include the quote either. Normally, I would regard that as near dispositive, but were living under wartime censorship, and a major diplomatic gaffe is just the sort of thing theyd censor.

So where does the quote appear? First, in a number of bot-like venues with sketchy About pages and no visible means of support: Here, here, and here. The quote also appears, complete with [shoot] in Al Mayadeen. None of these sources link to an original. More importantly, the story  but not the exact quote  appears on June 3 in Russia Today, Ukraine to decide range of Washingtons rockets  US ambassador (the deck: The new envoy to Kiev has shrugged off Biden and Blinken guarantees):

Brink held a press conference on Thursday, after presenting her credentials to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Asked about the HIMARS multiple rocket launch systems (MLRS) that the US is supplying to Kiev as part of a $700 million military aid package, she volunteered the details about their command and control. The range itself is going to be up to the Ukrainian side, Brink said. The remark, translated into Ukrainian and re-translated into English, quickly made the rounds on social media, to the effect that the US would not regulate the range of the HIMARS.

It occurs to me that the translation/retranslation is an additional reason this quote is so difficult to run down. (Other sources pulled the RT story off the wire, but did not advance it in any way.)

Next, and even more interestingly, we have this story on June 2 from Ukrainian News, Ukraine Itself Will Decide At What Distance To Use HIMARS  U.S. Ambassador To Ukraine:

U.S. Ambassador To Ukraine Bridget Brink has commented on the new U.S. package of military assistance to Ukraine during a briefing in Kyiv on Thursday, June 2. President Biden yesterday signed a USD 700 million military aid package that includes HIMARS long-range artillery. This will help Ukrainian forces to deliver more accurate strikes and [shoot] to a greater distance. So the Ukrainian troops will decide what distance to shoot , she said.

I think Ukrainian News is the origin of the story, because Ukrainian News is actually located in Kyiv (About Page). Moreover, the story has a byline:   (Tanya Gerasimova). So who or what is Ukrainian News?

WikiPedia says[3] that Ukrainian News, which has been around since 1993, is owned by Inter Media Group, a subsidiary of the Russian-based GDF Media Ltd. Even under new ownership, I cant imagine why they are allowed to continue to operate, unless they serve some useful purpose to Ukraines government. However, the editor, Dmytro Kuzmin, doesnt seem cut out to be a lacky. Even more interestingly, Ukrainian News building at 20 Esplanadna Street in Kyiv also houses the American Councils for International Education in Ukraine, which has has administered numerous programs sponsored by the US Government [and] developed projects in civil society building.

Summarizing: A Ukrainian wire service, funded at least at one time by Russia yet spunky enough to have one of its reporters badger Putin, still in business under Zelensky, oddly close to a major American NGO, is the source for a diplomatic gaffe picked up by Russian and Russia-adjacent venues but not reported and/or suppressed by American sources.

Finally, and most interestingly, we have this tweet, which gives us a second source, with different wording. From Radio Svoboda (Google translation) on June 2, The firing range of the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) depends on the Ukrainian military who will use it, new US Ambassador Bridget Brink said at a briefing on June 2

The firing range of the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) depends on the Ukrainian military who will use it, new US Ambassador Bridget Brink said at a briefing on June 2. Thus, she answered the journalists question about how the range of HIMARS impressions will be regulated. As President Biden said the day before, he has just signed a $ 700 million package of defense aid, which includes HIMARS, which is the artillery of long-range destruction. This will help the Ukrainian army to aim more accurately at longer distances. Therefore, the range of the shot will depend on the Ukrainian side . Brink said.

(This is the version RT picked up.) Radio Svoboda is Radio Free Europe/Radio Libertys Russian Service, funded by the United States government. Note that Radio Svoboda is not reporting from the press conference; theres no byline. They, like so many, are simply repeating words with no sourcing.

* * *

So, did Bridget Brink manship say the words of the gaffe, and was it a gaffe? Jake, its Ukraine.

I think Brink said the words. I find the existence of Ukrainian News as a firm inexplicable, but  or rather, and so  I believe the reporting.

But were the words a gaffe? I think not. First, heres one fact about Bridget Brink that I havent mentioned:

Current and former government officials I have spoken to identify her as a protege of undersecretary of state for political affairs, Victoria Nuland , perhaps the State Departments premier Russia expert, and among the most forceful and skilled advocates for U.S. global hegemony.

If Nuland is Brinks mentor, that automatically removes any presumption of good faith. So lets review the sequence of events, and then we can speculate:

1) I presume Nulands involvement, because Radio Svoboda is not in Brinks scope, and Radio Svoboda wouldnt have picked up the story from Western sources, because it wasnt there to be picked up. So Nuland planted the gaffe with them.

2) The gaffe was not reported in the Western Press;

3) The gaffe was reported to Ukraine, and to any subscribers to Ukrainian News (for example, Al Mayadeen);

4) The gaffe was megaphoned to Russia via Radio Svoboda, a Russian-language station.

So why would Nuland set this little operation in motion, and on Brinks very first day? These people are as twisty as corkscrews, so its not possible to say. It feels rather like an arbitrage opportunity; Nuland and Brink would be among the few who understood what the West heard and what Russia heard. So, again speculating:

1) The gaffe undercuts Biden with Putin as an interlocutor. If Brink remains in office after undercutting Biden, that means Biden isnt running the show.

2) The gaffe encourages Ukraine to poke the bear, hence leading to more war or even escalation (both good in Nulands mind). However, since the Western press did not report the gaffe, our hands are clean.

3) The gaffe may encourage Russia to believe that Biden was lying[4] when he said that the missiles had limited range; afer all, 50 miles is not a lot of range to regulate. This again raises the possibility of escalation, good in Nulands mind.

Im not Machiavellian enough to work out all the convolutions that Nulands arbitrage entails; perhaps readers have thoughts!

Finally, if Biden genuinely doesnt want a hot war with Russia  or simply wishes to avoid appearing to be a cuck  he should fire Brinlk and stuff Nuland back in her box. From The Department of Fat Chance, I know, but a man can dream.

NOTES

[1] Of course, we could promote the HIMARS from a 50-mile pawn to a 186-mile queen by sending Ukraine more rockets, but even so, Moscow would be out of range.

[2] Sadly, I dont know Russian or Ukrainian.

[3] They play for high stakes in the Ukrainian media: On 18 November 2002 the body of founder Mykhailo Kolomiets was found dead hanging from a tree near Molodechno, Belarus, after being missing for four weeks. He met with Volodymyr Hranovskiy just before he deleted all files on his computer and left for Minsk on 22 October 2001. On 30 October 2001, his body was found and he was buried two weeks later as unidentified.

[4] I think Biden is less nutty than the Ukrainian irredentists, among them Nuland, running State (since we dont have boots on the ground, at least not officially). So I dont see a reason for him to lie. And he can always send longer-range missiles later.
Lambert and I, and many readers, agree that Ukraine has prompted the worst informational environment ever. We hope readers will collaborate in mitigating the fog of war  both real fog and stage fog  in comments. None of us need more cheerleading and link-free repetition of memes; there are platforms for that. Low-value, link-free pom pom-wavers will be summarily whacked.

And for those who are new here, this is not a mere polite request. We have written site Policies and those who comment have accepted those terms. To prevent having to resort to the nuclear option of shutting comments down entirely until more sanity prevails, as we did during the 2015 Greek bailout negotiations and shortly after the 2020 election, we are going to be ruthless about moderating and blacklisting offenders.

Yves

P.S. Also, before further stressing our already stressed moderators, read our site policies:

Please do not write us to ask why a comment has not appeared. We do not have the bandwidth to investigate and reply. Using the comments section to complain about moderation decisions/tripwires earns that commenter troll points. Please dont do it. Those comments will also be removed if we encounter them.

* * *

Is Fishing With a Drone the Way of the Future? Smithsonian (Re Silc).

Pressure builds on riskiest corner of US junk bond market FT

Davos: The Left Didnt Eat the Rich. The Rich Ate the Left Newsweek. A firebell in the night:

When the organized left cant be bothered to organize for pandemic protections  even though immunocompromised and vulnerable Americans face a daily choice between their health and economic survival  what hope do we have?  Walker Bragman (@WalkerBragman) June 5, 2022

Granted, for some definition of organized. But, for example, the case for better ventilation, especially in the worlkplace, is science-based and as clear as day. Wheres Big Labor? The Squad? Sanders? Heck, Warren.

68th Bilderberg Meeting to take place 2  5 June 2022 in Washington, D.C., USA Bilderberg Meetings. Includes the key topics for discussion. I like #11: Post Pandemic Health. Post. Really? List of participants. I certainly hope the (as yet unannounced) venue has proper ventilation.

Why Sheryl Sandberg Quit Facebooks Meta WSJ

Climate

#COVID19

Monkeypox

China?

Myanmar

Cambodians vote in local polls as revived opposition vies for seats France24

India

UK/EU

UK summer music festivals forced to close as cost of living crisis hits home Guardian

New Not-So-Cold War

Syraqistan

Biden Administration

Abbott restarts baby formula plant linked to contamination ABC

Capitol Seizure

House Jan. 6 committee announces first hearing will be held in primetime NBC. Im going to have to work out how to watch this without stroking out. Could be Watergate, could be Benghazi, could be a nrew and original way for Democrats to screw things up.

Supply Chain

The Bezzle

FTC reports $329 million lost to crypto scams in Q1 2022 Web3 Is Going Great. I cant understand how. Crypto is simplicity itself: Posting this here so your followers can learn something  cant credit the creator as I dont know who made it but damn if jt isnt a nice infographic pic.twitter.com/QSRLsaEtbm  AR Alpha Share (@C0mbatvv0mbat) June 4, 2022

Healthcare

PBM practices are keeping consumers from generics savings, white paper finds Healthare Dive

Former Wisconsin judge killed in targeted attack; suspect had hit list that included Mitch McConnell, Gov. Whitmer NBC

Police State Watch

Lawsuit: In botched drug case, Minneapolis police fabricated informant and evidence Star-Tribune. From Greg Doucettes enormous Cops lying is common permathread: Cops lying is common, continued Andre Moore is now suing the Minneapolis Police after spending 7 months in jail "We think that the confidential informant in this case may not have existed," said one of the attys Original story (16 May 2021): https://t.co/WBwhF0RRam Update: https://t.co/RJtf3bd9NP  T. Greg Doucette (@greg_doucette) June 3, 2022

The Body Of Christ Betrayed: Reflections On Sexual Abuse In The SBC The Roys Report

Class Warfare

The aliens are all hanging out on Dyson spheres circling white dwarfs, physicist argues Live Science

Theres a lot of stuff its hard to unsee just now:

We are in the midst of some renovations & our carpenter (a true craftsman) has been schooling me in fine detail work: Quarter rounds, tread & rise, corner joists, etc. Once a pro shows you what things done right look like, you cannot unsee it.  Barry Ritholtz (@ritholtz) June 4, 2022

When slats face due south, theres pretty much always shade (except at high noon).

Antidote du jour (via):

Bonus antidote (KatieBird):

Works best with the sound up, so you can react along with the cat.

See yesterdays Links and Antidote du Jour here.
By Nick Cunningham, an independent journalist covering the oil and gas industry, climate change and international politics. Originally published at DeSmog.

Climate change has worsened global inequality, with poorer countries less able to withstand and adapt to climate changes effects. It also has worsened inequality within countries between the rich and the poor: The impacts of drought, floods, hurricanes, and extreme heat are disproportionately felt by low-income communities and communities of color.

But new research suggests the reverse is also true: Not only is climate change contributing to greater inequality, but inequality is also fueling climate change. A new peer-reviewed paper by Fergus Green and Noel Healy, published in One Earth, analyzes the various ways in which inequality contributes to more greenhouse gas emissions while simultaneously making climate action even more difficult to pursue. The paper also asserts that climate policies that only focus on cutting greenhouse gas emissions, while ignoring inequality, will prove less effective at addressing the climate crisis compared to a much broader movement  like the Green New Deal  that attacks both inequality and climate change at the same time.

DeSmog spoke with one of the authors, Fergus Green, a lecturer in political theory and public policy at University College London, about the new research. The following conversation was edited for brevity and clarity.

Nick Cunningham: Lets start off with some basics on climate change and inequality. We know that climate change contributes to worsening inequality, that much is not in dispute, right? How does it do that?

Fergus Green: As we see all over the world, climate-related disasters like bushfires and wildfires, droughts, flooding those that are already vulnerable tend to be the worst hit. People who are poor dont have access to adequate shelter, dont have access to the mobility that they need to either avoid the worst impacts or move elsewhere afterwards. These shocks have a disproportionate impact on the worst off.

There are also these slow-onset events, particularly food and water related impacts, which also tend to disproportionately affect poor people because of their dependence on subsistence agriculture or their limited ability to purchase food. If theres a food price shock, theyre the worst hit, and were seeing that at the moment. So, there are various kinds of channels in which climate events are particularly bad for the poor.

NC: And then the well-off can kind of insulate themselves.

FG: Yeah, to a degree, although there are limits to that. The better off you are, the better insulated you certainly are going to be for a lot of these effects in the near-term. And actually, more than that, what we see is that the very rich are able to often profit financially from shocks. This is something that Naomi Klein has written a lot about, this idea of the Shock Doctrine. Those whose assets are tied up in financial and productive assets, which is predominantly the global 1 percent, can take advantage of shocks to shift investments in areas that do well out of natural disasters. So, theres some sense in which the very well-off do better, but thats of course limited by the fact that they also have to live on the planet. Certainly, relative to the people at the bottom of the income distribution where the impacts will be the worst felt, its very clear that for various reasons climate change is worsening, and will increasingly worsen, inequality.

NC: OK. And your paper kind of turns that on its head, and you find that inequality is worsening climate change. Walk me through some of the basics. How does that work?

FG: Yeah, exactly right. In this paper we are trying to show that the causal arrow goes the other way as well, and therefore potentially could be a vicious cycle over the long run. What we try to do is synthesize a whole bunch of research from different fields  economics, geography, sociology  that speaks to the various ways existing inequalities are linked to greater emissions. The slogan we used to summarize those mechanisms is: consumption, production, obstruction, trepidation, and non-cooperation.

NC: I think the one that would not be surprising to people would be consumption, that idea that the wealthy consume more. But some of these others might be a little bit more surprising to people. For example, the notion that the fraying social fabric could worsen climate change was interesting. Basically, as people see their circumstances deteriorate, they become less trusting in public institutions and that obstructs climate policy. Is that right?

FG: Yeah, thats the non-cooperation theme that we look at. In a way, Id say the direct evidence for this is the most complicated, but theres an underlying intuitive story that we piece together. There are two mechanisms here. First, the idea is that for any ambitious climate action its going to require the government to take actions that have a long time horizon. Therell be costs to that and therell be benefits, but a lot of the costs come upfront. And then the benefits include both the global and diffuse climate benefits, and other benefits like reduced air pollution and [increased] jobs and innovation. Those benefits take place over the medium-term.

The problem here is that governments are going to require their citizens to trust them, to trust that their promises to tackle climate change are going to yield all these benefits. But in highly unequal societies you have this problem where citizens are often cynical about politics and government. Because of these inequalities, the rich are able to capture those government processes. So, inequality is linked to corruption. And that makes citizens cynical and therefore less likely to trust and authorize their governments to undertake these nation-building reforms.

The second mechanism is more about how citizens relate to one another. The term thats used here in the literature is social trust. And we can sort of think about the trust between different groups and the solidarity between groups, and the willingness to compromise and make sacrifices for one another. Inequality reduces that social trust. The rich can live in gated communities and separate themselves from social and environmental ills. And we also know that the rich can use their control over media and communications to stoke divisions between everyone else. We see that particularly in the U.S. and other places with the role of Murdoch media and so on.

So, there are these various ways in which society becomes less trustful of one another. And if we think that climate change requires unprecedented cooperation, be it at the level of neighborhoods and community institutions, but also coming together in social movements to demand political change, then inequality is going to be a barrier to that collective action.

NC: And then as you mention, theres sort of a vicious feedback loop because then the rich can sort of buy more political power and rig the system even more in their favor, which then sort of stokes even more mistrust. Is that right? So, the mechanisms sort of interact with each other.

FG: They certainly do. Exactly. And particularly so here. We have one section where we actually combined two of our five themes, production and obstruction, because they are so closely related. As you rightly point out, thats also very closely connected to this last set of mechanisms around undermining the social fabric.

A lot has been written about [obstruction], the ability of corporations and wealthy investors to use their power to create a favorable regulatory environment. And thats not only obstructing, stopping, and weakening climate policies, but also ensuring large subsidies for fossil fuels and various other regulations that actively support more of the things that we dont need, like coal mines and gas wells.

NC: The one that may be a little more common sense to people is that consumption category. How does that work? The wealthy accrue more wealth, then consume more? Is that the basic idea?

FG: Yeah. Exactly. As peoples incomes rise, they consume more goods, and that means they consume more energy. And energy, at least as currently configured, is carbon-intensive.

One thing to note is that in these studies, emissions in the supply chain are usually attributed to the end consumer as a kind of accounting move. This is obviously somewhat arbitrary, because producers also make decisions. So, we try to highlight the importance of consumption, but also widen the focus so were looking more upstream in the production process.

NC: In general, scientists and much of the climate movement, though not all, spent years narrowly focused on cutting greenhouse-gas emissions in what you call a carbon-centric approach to climate policy. And fighting inequality was kind of an entirely separate journey for other people to take on. Why do you think that approach is misguided?

FG: I think this would be a good time to mention the one category that we havent mentioned yet, which we call trepidation. The idea here is were shifting our focus now from the wealthy down to certainly those who are poor and low-income  but even to some extent the middle class  who are somewhat financially precarious or overstretched in various ways. What that means is a lot of people are afraid of [the effects of] climate change policy on their jobs or prices, like on fuel and electricity. Its very easy for opponents of climate change policy to mobilize the boogeyman of increased costs, even when policies do include redistributive mechanisms. Its often a very powerful attack.

NC: This is like the Yellow Vest movement in France, for example, when French President Emanuel Macron hiked fuel taxes in 2018 and it sparked mass protest?

FG: Exactly right. Were not going to be able to enact carbon-centric climate policies if theres this kind of backlash. And I think that this has really unfolded in the last few years, and not just in France with the gilets jaunes. Weve seen this elsewhere in both the Global North and Global South.

This has, I think, made even the carbon centrists recognize that we cant just tackle climate change on its own. We also need to think about redistributive aspects if were going to get any climate change mitigation policy at all. I think it was a bit of a wake-up call.

NC: A few years ago when Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) and Sen. Ed Markey (D-MA) introduced their Green New Deal framework, one of the criticisms, even from people who are interested in addressing climate change, was that it included all these ancillary proposals to address inequality that had nothing to do with climate change. It sounds like youre suggesting that that was sort of the right approach all along?

FG: Thats right. And our study is explicitly framed to respond to this kind of critique from what we call Carbon Centrists, those that think inequality and climate change are not causally related (or not significantly so). Or, they think that by trying to tackle these wider inequalities, well just alienate moderates and centrists who we need in order to strike bargains to do anything on climate change at all.

What we try to do is synthesize the evidence thats out there, and build up this picture that kind of comprehensively responds to that critique and says, No, actually, these things are deeply intertwined through material processes and the political process. And we really have to address them together to make any sort of progress on either, and certainly on climate.

NC: Lets say that a large-scale Green New Deal program could be enacted. How would it attack inequality and climate change at the same time and address all these problems all at once? What kind of solutions are we talking about?

FG: Thats a good question. There have been a lot of proposals for Green New Deals from activist organizations, presidential candidates, and even some people whove been elected to office. What weve done is basically reviewed 29 Green New Deal proposals, mostly from the U.S. and Europe, but not entirely. Weve grouped their various components and said they really fall into six different buckets. Some include more traditional carbon-centric climate policies, but three of them we think are really distinctive to Green New Deal policy programs. And its these three that we focus on as the basis for combating these mechanisms that link inequalities to climate change.

First is sustainable social provisioning policies. So, thats about the state providing basic necessities to ensure that they are universally accessible, but also decarbonizing them at the same time. A key one here is housing, ensuring that people have access to housing, but not just any housing, efficient housing thats not connected to gas.

The second bucket is financial security policies. This gets to the problem I mentioned earlier about people feeling insecure about their jobs or their purchasing power because of climate policies. We need to ensure that all people are financially secure. The Ocasio-Cortez-Markey Green New Deal emphasized a jobs guarantee. Thats one way of getting there. There are others.

The third bucket we call reconfiguring power. Its not just about redistribution, its about changing the rules so that political power and economic power are more evenly spread throughout society. A key one here is shifting the balance between capital and labor through reforms in labor markets that are more pro-union. Also, reforms and processes that center racial, indigenous, and gender justice. Thats also about reconfiguring power.

NC: I was going to ask about the politics of all of this. As you mentioned earlier, often carbon-centric approaches sort of presume that we really need to keep this narrow in order to get moderates on board or even some conservatives. Youre saying, thats not working.

FG: I think its fair to say a lot of carbon-centric approaches are sort of apolitical. They dont really think through the political implications of these policies.

This idea that theres this sort of bipartisan cooperation around climate change that might happen is both belied by the institutional setup of the United States, but also by recent experience, which suggests theres not much of a center around which to cooperate.

A Green New Deal approach is predicated on incorporating transformative climate policy and a wider set of reforms that are intended to appeal to the vast majority, as well as progressive interest groups. The thought is if you can have a transformative vision and policy program that mobilizes votes on the left and left of center, you can get enough people to vote for that, and then implement that program in your own right. Thats the hope.

Now, its fair to say, even thats very challenging in the current environment. Theres no doubt about that.

NC: Im wondering if there are any places around the world that you see as being at the forefront of this?

FG: Thats a good question. I think its fair to say that so far theres not very many that have been enacted. There are some things that have been sort of branded as Green New Deals. One we are studying at the moment is the case of Spain. You had a Socialist Party that came to power after the collapse of the Conservative government in 2018. They went to an election in April 2019, the [Socialist Party] platform included quite prominently a Green New Deal. We focused on an aspect of that that supported the transition of Spanish coal regions. We think they did that quite well. There are lessons to learn there, how to do a kind of Just Transition in fossil fuel regions.

Beyond that, I think what is really interesting is what is happening at a sub-national level in the U.S. We saw, for example, in Boston, Michelle Wu elected as Boston Mayor on a very prominent Green New Deal strategy there. So, that is sort of one of the few examples of someone who has been elected on a through-and-through Green New Deal strategy. Of course, recognizing that there are limits to what cities can do. But I think thats a very fascinating example of where this kind of politics can be successful.
(Natural News) A formerly prestigious school in San Francisco has turned into a bottom-of-the-barrel school after eliminating its merit-based admissions standards due to fears about racism.

Prior to the change, Lowell High Schools failing rate was around 7 percent and some change. Now, it has soared to nearly 25 percent of students receiving either a D or an F during their first semester, according to internal records obtained by the San Francisco Chronicle.

The fall 2020 semester saw a slight increase in Lowells student failure rate due to remote learning requirements that were imposed in response to the Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19). When the school started accepting underprivileged students based on skin color as opposed to academic ability, however, the schools failure rate skyrocketed.

The fall 2021 class was chosen primarily based on a lottery instead of a decades-old merit-based system based on test scores and grades, bringing it in line with almost every other high school in the city, reports ADN America.

Those who supported the new lottery said the merit-based system was racist because it resulted in an underrepresentation of Black and Hispanic students, reports Asian-American news site Nextshark.

Outgoing Lowell principals plays dumb, says there are way too many variables that are causing school to fail

Before affirmative action was deployed to diversify Lowell High School, its student population was primarily composed of Asians. Now, there are many more blacks and Hispanics in attendance, and the grade-point average is reportedly dropping dramatically.

Outgoing principal Joe Ryan Dominguez claims that Lowells decline from an elite school to just another run-of-the-mill American institution is not due to the new racial makeup of the school.

There are way too many variables that contributed, he says about the massive spike in Ds and Fs on student report cards.

Over a year of distance learning, half of our student body new to in-person instruction at the high school level and absences among students / staff for COVID all explain this dip in performance.

Dominguez went on to offer a politically correct trope about how this is a sensitive topic and he does not want to risk shaming our students and teachers who have worked very hard in a difficult year.

Interestingly, Dominguez submitted his resignation just last month ahead of this news getting out. Did he know what was about to happen before local news, and eventually national news, picked up on it? Or is it all just a coincidence?

The excuse that Dominguez gave for resigning sounds a whole lot like his response to the spike in failing grades at Lowell. He blames a lack of well organized systems, fiscal responsibility and sound instructional practices as the path towards equity.

Those are tricky words, Mr. Dominguez, not to mention carefully chosen ones. It is clear that Lowell is now on a downward spiral, and who wants to go down with a sinking ship, right?

What becomes of Lowell amid all this is the next chapter that has yet to be written. It seems obvious, though, that its prestige is certainly gone  unless it reverses course, however.

There are signs that at least some in San Francisco are waking up to the fact that the citys social justice agenda is backfiring in a major way and will ultimately lead to ruin for everyone.

According to reports, three school board members were recently voted out of the San Francisco public school system for prioritizing social justice programming over the reopening of schools after the plandemic ended. Will the administration at Lowell take notice before it is too late?

If stories like this one interest you, there are many more like it at Wokies.news.

Sources for this article include:

ADNAmerica.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) The United States is flooding Ukraine with so many weapons that Russia has announced that it must take a more global approach to its special operation in Ukraine.

Instead of just dealing with the globalist problem in that country, Russia quickly realizes that all of NATO is its enemy. The axis of evil is much greater than just Ukraines puppet government is a simple way of putting it.

I have some unpleasant news, said Olga Skabeeva on the Russian state TV program 60 Minutes. Even though we are methodically destroying the weapons that are being delivered [to Ukraine], the quantities in which the United States are sending them force us to come up with some global conclusions.

Perhaps its time to acknowledge that maybe Russias special operation in Ukraine has come to an end, in a sense that a real war had started: WWIII, she added. Were forced to conduct the demilitarization not only of Ukraine but of the entire NATO alliance.

These are big words, but ones that have been written on the wall for quite some time now. Many could see that this was moving towards World War III once NATO decided to gang up on Russia for dealing with the Ukraine problem.

Both the United States and Poland, along with other NATO countries such as Germany, have been funneling weapons and other gear into Ukraine as part of a unified front against Russia. This leaves Russia with very little option other than to fight back against the whole shebang.

Indeed, we need to remember the words of Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, who said that anyone who tries to interfere in the special military operation will pay a heavy price, added Vladimir Avatkov from Russias Diplomatic Academy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

We never forget about these words of Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, but a great number of people are already standing in line, trying to interfere in Russias special operation on the territory of Ukraine, Skabeeva quickly interjected.

Turns out, we have to act  but were yet to figure out how we can act without conducting a nuclear strike.

Russia warns Poland: Mind your own business or your current borders will be worthless

During the conversation, Russian parliament member Oleg Matveychev weighed in that if Poland starts any intervention  its current borders will be worthless, to which Skabeeva added that it is not just Poland that needs to back off and mind its own business.

I wasnt just talking about Poland, but mainly about Great Britain and the United States, Skabeeva said, adding that theyre all lined up.

No need to rush, chimed in Avatkov. There is a line. Everything in its time!

Poland is simply first in line, according to Russia, because it is said to be moving to seize territories in western Ukraine. The Russian government also claims that Poland is actively working to dismember Ukraine.

On Russian state TV, hosts and pundits regularly refer to Ukraine as the territory formerly known as Ukraine. They also discuss matters pertaining to the denazification of the country, which is one of Russias goals with the operation.

For us, the special military operation is just the first act, an introduction, said Chairman of the State Duma Committee on Defense Andrey Kartapolov in an interview on Sunday Evening with Vladimir Solovyov.

The war that is going on right now  its not just an economical war and info-war, this war is about our faith. Its about our right, as the people, to have faith in what we want to believe, to love those we want to love, and to live the way our ancestors would have wanted, on our land and by our birthright.

More of the latest news about this subject can be found at WWIII.news.

Sources include:

Yahoo.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) The California State Senate voted this week to abolish a mandatory school violence reporting requirement that some say will increase the number of school shootings that occur in the Golden State.

Under the old law, whenever a school official was attacked, assaulted, or physically threatened by a pupil, school staff were required to promptly report the incident to specified law enforcement authorities. That requirement is now gone, which opens the door to more on-campus violence without consequences.

Senate Bill 1273 officially strikes the reporting mandate from California state law, and it was passed just days after the Uvalde, Tex., shooting, much to the surprise of many considering its potentially disastrous implications.

The group ACLU California Action fully endorses SB 1273, calling it a win for racial equality since black and brown people are apparently the worst offenders when it comes to committing violent acts at school.

Once students make contact with law enforcement, they are less likely to graduate high school and more likely to wind up in jail or prison, a statement from the organization reads.

These harms fall disproportionately on students from marginalized groups: Black, Indigenous, and Latinx students.

State Sen. Steven Bradford, the bills sponsor, similarly told the Daily Caller that the reporting requirement was racist because it led to alarming disparities in the type of students who are most likely to suffer these harms.

Black students, Latinx students, students of color, and students with disabilities are disproportionately referred to law enforcement, cited, and arrested, Bradford claims.

SB 1273 will reduce law enforcement involvement in schools and give teachers and administrators, who are often best suited to determine the appropriate response, the flexibility and power they need to support students.

Teachers and administrators will still be able to call law enforcement if they believe that is the right response to a particular incident, but they will not be required to do so.

Will violence, including mass shootings, increase in California?

To put it more simply in politically incorrect terms, non-whites are apparently a problem in public schools, according to Californias leftist government. And having rules in place to report their on-campus crimes results in many of them being punished, which is racist.

Now, instead of holding these non-white students accountable for assaulting and threatening teachers or other students, the state of California has enshrined a policy of turning a blind eye in order to promote equality and anti-racism  so progressive.

Chances are that on-campus violence will increase because of the change. And there is a strong possibility that mass shootings will also increase since the bar has now been lowered in terms of the consequences of violence.

They dont like what the statistics show so they eliminate the statistics, is how one person in the Caller puts it.

Another joked that it is entirely possible that there is no intelligent life left in California now, causing this person to reexamine my thoughts about extraterrestrial life having visited our planet.

Another factor worth considering is that the new law does not prohibit the reporting of violence on campus, but rather makes it optional. This could result in a reverse racism type of situation where teachers and administrators avoid reporting non-white students for fear of being called racists while only reporting white student violence.

There is no telling the extent to which the new rule will wreak more havoc on society, but leave it to California to voluntarily become a test case for experimental anti-racism endeavors that have the potential to backfire in a major way.

More related news about school shootings can be found at GunViolence.news.

Sources include:

DailyCaller.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) There is no bigger money maker than a plandemic like COVID-19. Millions or even billions of dollars were pocketed by politicians, organizations and agencies involved in the sinister release of the gain-of-function virus, plus all who perpetuated the propaganda that influenced mandatory lockdowns, mask-wearing, coerced vaccination and horrific hospital treatments that sent the majority of immune-compromised victims six feet under. That medical tyranny and psychological terrorism is still being perpetuated, but not enough for the greedy freaks to have complete control over the populace, so now theyre pushing out an even bigger scamdemic  monkeypox.

CDC posts scare-tactic travel advisory notice claiming monkeypox is contagious through human touch, bushmeat, linen, respiratory droplets

According to the Centers for Disease Continuation (CDC), monkeypox is already threatening to be the next pandemic across the world, with an 11 percent kill rate. The CDC fake science and misinformation campaign includes boldfaced lies that the small pox vaccine is already proven to prevent 85 percent of monkeypox cases from becoming severe.

The CDC already LIED and claimed COVID vaccines prevented COVID when they most certainly did not. Then they recanted that and said they prevent transmission. Then they recanted that too, and claimed they prevent a severe case of COVID. Then science proved that was a lie, and the lethal clot shot jabs efficacy, the little that they do supposedly provide, wanes within a couple months.

Now that the scamdemic has faded, lost power and most people have figured out the jabs are useless, the CDC needs a new plan of medical terrorism and psychological horror to reinstate complete control over the populace.

Monkeypox is a virus spread by gay dudes to other gay dudes at orgies who have had intimate contact with infected monkeys in Europe and Africa. The infected homosexuals get lesions on their skin and infect each other while having sex. The CDC wants all Americans on high alert, unless youre gay and attending a gay pride parade, then theres nothing at all to worry about.

The CDC is warning that you can easily catch and spread monkeypox by touching and eating the ever-popular bushmeat, which are meat products from exotic animals like monkeys, snakes, rodents and yes, bats. The CDC is warning everyone to NOT bring dead or barely living infected wild animals on the planes, trains and buses with you. Also, if you see people (lepers) with lesions all over their face, please report them to the authorities to prevent the monkeypox pandemic from killing every single American soon.

Expect lockdowns, social distancing, forced-vaccination, mask mandates to RETURN due to propaganda-led Monkeypox pandemic

Part of the communist aggression and US changeover being installed by the insane Democrats involves depersonalization of all humans, the bankrupting of all private businesses, the confiscation of all guns, the illegalization of free speech and press, and labeling all truth news as misinformation.

This means the Biden Regime, partnered with the highly corrupt CDC, FDA and WHO (World Hatred Organization), want all Americans wearing masks 24/7/365, regurgitating all scripted lies by the CDC, closing their businesses, forfeiting their guns, devaluing life in general, and checking into hospitals for immediate death-sentence-treatments, including Remdesivir and choke-you-to-death-in-less-than-4-days ventilators.

Monkeypox, however, according to the CDC, cannot be transmitted at any gender-fluid events or at gay rights parades, because the disease does not discriminate against the trans-community like white supremacists do. Thats why the Biden Regime just petitioned to reinstate the mask mandate on all means of public travel, because its the best form of communist, non-discriminatory advertising for the fake pandemic also known as Bill Gates monkeypox. Its all about pushing toxic gene therapy injections and deadly smallpox jabs now.

Bookmark Censored.news to your favorite websites for truth news thats being censored from the rest of media as you read this.

Sources for this article include:

NaturalNews.com

GatewayPundit.com

CDC.gov/travel
(Natural News) In an attempt at plugging the leak of truthful information online, the government of Connecticut has created a new Ministry of Truth bureaucratic position to scour social media for misinformation.

According to reports, the job will pay $150,000 per year, and its entire purpose is to purge the internet of anything the government deems as false.

The New York Times reported that whoever gets hired into the slot will be tasked with flagging memes, emerging narratives, and other content that has the potential to go viral. Part of the job position is to specifically target so-called alt tech platforms such as GETTR and Rumble.

To be sure that Mexicans, Puerto Ricans and other Hispanic people are not exposed to the same misinformation in Spanish, the qualified candidate will need to be bilingual as well.

The new job was announced in an election year, of course, the clear aim being to avoid any more Republican wins. (Related: The corporate-controlled media is also trying to silence the independent media for the same purpose.)

California, Colorado, Idaho and many other states are also spending taxpayer money to police the internet

Connecticut is not alone in its quest to sanitize information online. California and Colorado are both trying to do the same thing, reports indicate  and the latter actually already did this in 2020, unbeknownst to many.

Colorados Rapid Response Election Security Cyber Unit, as it is called, was first deployed in 2020 to stop Donald Trump and other Republicans from winning the election. That same unit is once again being deployed in 2022 for the upcoming midterms.

This unit is made up of three election security experts who will surveil the internet for election misinformation and report it to federal law enforcement, Reclaim the Net revealed.

Colorados Democratic Secretary of State, Jena Griswold, will head up the unit, her justification for its existence being that lies are being used to chip away at our fundamental freedoms.

In California, the office of the Secretary of State is working alongside the federal Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to stamp out the truth by probing for patterns of misinformation across the internet.

In addition to these flagging and censorship efforts, Colorado, Oregon, Idaho, and Arizona will also be spending millions of dollars on ad campaigns that push accurate election information, Reclaim the Net further reported.

Scott Bates, the Deputy Secretary of State in Connecticut, says his states Ministry of Truth is needed in order to achieve situational awareness by looking into all the incoming threats to the integrity of elections.

Misinformation can erode peoples confidence in elections, and we view that as a critical threat to the democratic process, Bates is further quoted as saying.

Tom Fitton of Judicial Watch, on the other hand, is horrified by this new trend. He says that all of these states are setting up Ministries of Truth to censor Americans.

These Ministries of Truth all align with the Biden regimes new Disinformation Governance Board, which was recently launched for the very same purpose of fighting disinformation online.

The Biden regime is scouring Facebook for unacceptable posts and flagging them for censorship. Democrats all across the country are reportedly doing the same thing on Twitter to force the removal of unsavory tweets.

Critics have argued that programs that involve public officials flagging speech for Big Tech platforms to censor violate the First Amendment because the government is coercing these private companies to censor on its behalf, Reclaim the Net explains.

However, courts have so far dismissed lawsuits that allege these public-private censorship initiatives violate the First Amendment.

The latest news about the Democrats desperate attempts at silencing the truth can be found at Censorship.news.

Sources for this article include:

ReclaimTheNet.org

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) Americans should expect to get Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine boosters annually, according to White House Chief Medical Advisor Dr. Anthony Fauci.

We know that immunity wanes over time, the infectious disease expert said in an interview with New York City channel PIX 11. Depending upon what this virus does, there is certainly a reasonably good chance that we will have the same sort of situation that we have with influenza  where every year, you have to re-boost people to keep that protection up.

Fauci added that COVID-19 is here to stay and the world will be dealing with this virus on a chronic basis. He said: We really hope it will reach a level low enough that it doesnt disrupt us to the extent that it has over the past couple of years.

The chief medical advisor for the Biden administration had previously mentioned the need for yearly COVID-19 booster doses back in December 2021. During an appearance on the ABC program This Week, he insinuated the necessity of annual boosters against the pathogen.

If it becomes necessary to get yet another boost, then well just have to deal with it when that occurs, Fauci said in response to This Week host George Stephanopoulos asking whether people should expect yearly boosters. (Related: Fauci orders Americans to comply with YEARLY boosters which will no doubt soon become MONTHLY spike protein injections.)

Faucis remarks in support of boosters appeared to line up with a recent decision by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) expanding their authorization. On May 17, the regulator permitted the use of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for use as a booster in children aged five to 11. It followed the January emergency approval of the shot as a booster in teenagers 12 to 15 years old.

Dr. Peter Marks, director of the FDAs Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, said of the move: The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine is effective in helping to prevent the most severe consequences of COVID-19 in individuals five years of age and older. Emerging data [suggest] that vaccine effectiveness against COVID-19 wanes after the second dose in all authorized populations.

Bourla also pushing yearly boosters for greater compliance

It appears that Fauci is not the only one pushing for yearly boosters. Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla shared the infectious disease experts sentiments, adding that the New York-based company he heads is developing an annual vaccine for that purpose. The Pfizer executive revealed this during an April press briefing organized by the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations.

What the world really needs is a vaccine that can last a year. A vaccine that will be taken once a year is way [easier] to administer and [to] have the population be compliant with it, said the Pfizer CEO. According to Bourla, this optimal public health solution can make compliance with vaccine mandates easier compared to vaccines that need to be injected every three to four months.

He pointed his finger at the politicization of vaccines during the COVID-19 as one of the reasons why the subsequent doses were not as warmly received as the initial ones.

I think that what didnt help at all, and this was a very big issue, was the fact that there was a politicization. It became a political statement [to get] a vaccine or [to] wear a mask or not, and that caused tremendous damage to global health.

Bourla also blamed peoples lukewarm reception toward boosters, citing the dwindling number of recipients for subsequent doses after the second.

The issue is that right now, we are  in many, many countries  in the fourth dose, and that creates fatigue. Way more people got the second [dose] than the third, [and] I think the compliance with the fourth dose will not be as high. [We] realized that people will not comply with the fourth or fifth vaccination. This is why we need to come [up with] scientific innovations that will allow us to have a vaccine that is annual.

Watch Noubar Afeyan, Moderna co-founder and chairman, claiming that COVID-19 boosters could be injected yearly.

This video is from the LoneGunman channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

VAXXED FOR LIFE: Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla calls for greater compliance with annual COVID vaccines.

BioNTech co-founder echoes Pfizer CEO, expects people to get vaccinated against coronavirus annually.

Fauci floats the idea of injecting eligible Americans with COVID booster shots every six months.

The HighWire: FDA has lost its way with approval of COVID boosters for kids aged 5 to 11.

European Medicines Agency advises against frequent COVID boosters, warns of risks.

Sources include:

SHTFPlan.com

OregonLive.com

TheGatewayPundit.com

FDA.gov

LifeSiteNews.com

Brighteon.com
(Natural News) Food and Drug Administration (FDA) staffers warned of the potential cardiac inflammation risk linked to the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine from Novavax.

The regulatory agencys staff members pointed out the risk in documents released June 3, ahead of the FDAs Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee (VRBPAC) meeting scheduled on June 7. They cited four events of myocarditis  inflammation of the heart muscle  that occurred during clinical trials of the vaccine. The Maryland-based Novavax conducted trials of its COVID-19 vaccine on almost 30,000 patients between December 2020 and September 2021.

These events raise the concern for a causal association with this vaccine, similar to the association documents with mRNA COVID-19 vaccines. Post-marketing data from individuals receiving mRNA vaccines [has] demonstrated increased risks of myocarditis and pericarditis, particularly within seven days following the second primary dose, the FDA staffers noted. Pericarditis pertains to the inflammation of the pericardium or the lining surrounding the heart. (Related: Heart inflammation reported in teens following Moderna and Pfizer vaccine.)

Data from passive surveillance during post-authorization use in other countries also indicate a higher than expected rate of myocarditis and pericarditis  associated with the vaccine. Further evaluation is needed to inform the risk of myocarditis and pericarditis, and their outcomes, as additional data emerge over time.

Aside from the cardiac inflammation risks, the FDA staffers also cited tenderness at the injection site, headache, fatigue and muscle pain as immediate reactions. They also mentioned hypersensitivity and swelling of the lymph nodes as reactions linked to the Novavax shot. There was also one case of Guillain-Barre syndrome  which is known to be associated with other [COVID-19] vaccines  observed during the Novavax clinical trial.

Novavaxs COVID-19 vaccine is different from the other vaccines in the market, as it uses an insect virus to deliver the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. The Pfizer and Moderna mRNA vaccines use lipid nanoparticles containing messenger RNA to deliver the spike protein in the body. Meanwhile, the AstraZeneca and Janssen viral vector vaccines use an adenovirus for this purpose.

The Novavax vaccine also contains the compound saponin, which is taken from the soap bark tree (Quillaja saponaria) native to South America. Saponins soap-like qualities trigger a response from the bodys immune system when injected in the body.

Novavax shot causes catastrophic reactions in three Aussie women

The U.S. has not yet authorized the Novavax shot as of writing  but some countries including the Philippines, the United Kingdom, Indonesia, India, South Korea and Australia have approved it. The Therapeutic Goods Administration, the Australian counterpart of the FDA, authorized the Novavax vaccine in January 2022. It recommended the two-dose vaccine for Australians aged 18 and older, with a three-week interval between both.

However, The COVID Blog outlined three cases of women suffering from serious vaccine injuries after being injected with the shot.

A 42-year-old woman named Tasha received her first Novavax dose on Feb. 21. She immediately reported a hot gushing feeling down [her] throat that tasted metallic, a deep throbbing headache, profuse sweating and the worst chest pain. The resident of Adelaide, South Australia sought medical treatment only to be told that doctors did not know how to deal with the adverse reactions caused by the Novavax vaccine. Tasha became completely bedridden by March 1.

Lee-Anne Barnett, 45, also reported the same metallic taste immediately after getting her first Novavax dose on Feb. 18. Following several days of having a sore arm, the Adelaide resident developed very itchy rashes on both thighs that rapidly spread to her legs. Doctors only prescribed steroids for the rashes, dismissing the possibility that the COVID-19 vaccine had something to do with it. Barnett reported diminishing cognitive abilities that made her feel like she was getting dementia on March 2.

Chiara Clowes, 30, experienced a plethora of reactions  including difficulty breathing, extreme chest pain, extreme fatigue, brain fog and cognitive issues  after getting the vaccine on Feb. 17. While tests conducted by medical professionals found nothing, they acknowledged Clowes chest pain was caused by the Novavax shot. On Feb. 24, doctors found a cyst in her ovary. Clowes, who lives a healthy lifestyle prior to her COVID-19 vaccination, now has to regularly meet with gynecologists as a consequence.

What we know for certain is that Novavax is an experimental injection and is already making people sick, remarked The COVID Blog.

Watch Dr. Jane Ruby expounding on the dangers of the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine below.

This video is from the Information Warfare channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

3 Aussie women experience SERIOUS REACTIONS after getting Novavax COVID shot.

Operation Warp Speed gives $1.6 billion in taxpayer funding to Novavax for coronavirus vaccines.

IMPOSSIBLE SCIENCE: Novavax says it will have a new vaccine ready in just two weeks for the Omicron variant, which appeared just last week.

Sources include:

TheEpochTimes.com

FDA.gov

Health.gov.au

TheCOVIDBlog.com

Brighteon.com
(Natural News) The worst part of the pandemic is not the virus, but the misinformation coming from the WHO, CDC, FDA and Biden Regime. The regurgitation of haphazard guessing and conspiracy theories based on zero science has created the most dangerous kind of pandemic  an infodemic. First, we were told by Nancy Pelosi that it was perfectly safe to wander around in big crowds in Chinatown, San Francisco, and this was at the beginning of the infodemic. Cruise boats landed on our west coast, full of infected people who had visited China, and were purposely released, without quarantine or even testing, to spread COVID across the United States.

Then came the mad, mad rush to get vaccinated with unapproved, unsafe, ineffective clot shot jabs that the CDC assured with their favorite infodemic lie were safe and effective. Everyone was told if the majority of Americans just got these injections, the COVID curve would be flattened. Sure.

Then the CDC and FDA goons lied some more when that misinformation got exposed, and said, well, the vaccines wont stop anyone from getting the virus, and they wont stop anyone from spreading the virus, but theyll stop you from catching a bad case of the virus. Another misinformation fear-and-loathing propaganda campaign spread across all MSM, the most contagious and dangerous infodemic ever released.

Gender-fluid gay-pox is coming, run for your lives!

Now its time to run for your lives because  monkeypox! Its like AIDS mixed with chickenpox, and its the WHO (World Health-Crushing Organization) wants you to know that its NOT a gay disease, just because men who have sexual encounters with other men who had intimate encounters (probably anal sex) with monkeys, and then attended orgies, are the only people who have it right now.

Still, the US government and CDC are buying millions of monkeypox vaccines (that dont really exist because theres no cure for it yet), and also claim the smallpox vaccine provides 85 percent protection against gay-pox. Again, misinformation is being spread like wildfire, and not by independent media or a bunch of anti-allopathic social media trolls, but by the WHO, CDC and FDA.

Now, the WHO claims people should NOT change their plans to attend gay pride celebrations over monkeypox concerns and outbreaks, even though they say it can be transmitted through clothing. Wait, what? Meanwhile, gay men download apps (hookup apps) at these events to geo-locate where other gay men are around them who are horny and want to go into bathrooms and perform sex acts on each other.

Still, the WHO says go to the parade and dont worry about spreading COVID or monkeypox, because the WHO is trying to takeover the world and control everyones actions forever, and the only way to do that is to spread disease, then force-inject everyone with deadly, population-reduction blood-clot-shots.

Misinformation, disinformation and the infodemic thats more contagious than Wuhan Coronavirus and Monkeypox put together

Want to catch a deadly infodemic virus that can kill you faster than a animal virus given gain of function ability in a lab? Just listen to the infodemic of misinformation handed down by the CDC, FDA and WHO. They want everyone to attend gay super-spreader events (pun intended) without a mask, and hug as many gay dudes as possible as a message of solidarity in the new communist Amerika. In fact, take a cruise boat over to Europe and West Africa, hug the monkeys and go to orgies, and then come back to America and get an emergency-use-only monkeypox vaccine and youll be good to go, according to the monkeypox infodemic.

The formula for a Bill Gates, Nancy Pelosi and Anthony Fauci ponzi-scheme plandemic is to tell everyone to not worry about anything, just go out and party and shop and hug and screw, and well all be just fine. Then, after millions of people catch anything, from a head cold to the flu, test them all positive with fake and falsified PCR tests, and rush them to the closest gene therapy jab outlet.

Heres some excellent infodemic (propaganda) advice straight from the super-spreaders at the WHO:

It is important to note that the risk of monkeypox is not limited to men who have sex with men. Anyone who has close contact with someone who is infectious is at risk. 

and stigmatising people because of a disease is never ok. Anyone can get or pass on monkeypox, regardless of their sexuality.

Its all just psychological terrorism spread infodemic style. Maybe Nancy Pelosi should head back out to Chinatown and head up a gay-intravenous-drug-user parade while declaring, See, theres nothing to worry about! Bookmark Vaccines.news to your favorite independent websites for updates on experimental emergency only vaccines that spread Wuhan Coronavirus and Monkeypox and offer zero protection against them.

Sources for this article include:

Pandemic.news

TheGatewayPundit.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) Once again, we have to remind our readers that leftists in America, not right-leaning conservatives, are the first ones to resort to violence when they dont get their way.

According to the New American, unlike supporters of President Donald Trump, leftists are planning to storm Washington, D.C., if the U.S. Supreme Court follows through and overturns Roe v. Wade, the 1973 landmark ruling that legalized abortion and led to the deaths of tens of millions of unborn babies.

Talk about a true insurrection. The outlet reports:

#ShutDownDC plans to block streets near the Court in D.C. as part of a plot to stop justices and their staff from having access to their chambers. Organizers recognize that their planned actions fall into illegality, and even acknowledged the probability of violent confrontations with police.

The Department of Homeland Security circulated a memo in May that put the Supreme Court on alert of threats. Law enforcement is currently looking at threats from pro-abortion individuals to justices and staff at the Court building.

One of our goals would be to expand the current political crisis by shutting down the Supreme Court, one of the plans organizers noted in a briefing, according to the Washington Free Beacon. The outlet also reported that the group planned the blockade for Monday, June 13, a day when the Court will likely hand down opinions.

The recent briefing saw more than 60 left-wing extremists show up, led by four or five organizers, some of whom concealed their true identities. The WFB said the briefing featured a detailed tactical plan for barring access to the high courts underground parking garage, which serves as the principal entry and exit point for justices and the high courts staffers.

According to the plan, leftists are to block two points near the high court on 2nd Street, as well as a third location on A St. A Street features a residential area, however, while 2nd Street is a busy road for commuters.

To coincide with the blockade, #ShutDownDC is planning a rally in front of the Court on First St., which lies between the U.S. Capitol and the Courts marble plaza. Organizers described the rally as a low-risk location, in contrast to the blockade posts where they anticipate arrests and skirmishes with police, the WFB noted further.

Its possible we will see many different law enforcement agencies, as weve become used to, an organizer said.

Though organizers admitted their actions are illegal, they did not say specific justices would be targeted. The objective overall is to disrupt the court and its proceedings.

In this space we may talk about some action ideas that stretch the bounds of constitutionally protected speech, a slide shown to attendees noted.

Avoid saying anything you wouldnt want to see on Fox News, it added.

One organizer noted that #ShutdownDC was responsible for illegal demonstrations (that Bidens corrupt attorney general, Merrick Garland, refused to do anything about) at the homes of Supreme Court justices who signed on to a leaked draft opinion from February overturning Roe. Another group, Ruth Sent Us, named for the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg (who would never have approved of thugs rousting justices at their homes) has also claimed responsibility for the protests, which is a sign the two groups are very closely aligned.

We were the first to hold an action at Brett Kavanaughs house, and then recently we held an action at Samuel Alitos house, the organizer bragged, adding that she was glad to see several new individuals join in their efforts at this weeks presentation.

This is a crisis moment for democracy and for our rights, so we need as many new folks leveling up in their mobilization as possible, an organizer said.

No. The crisis is coming from left-wing lunatics who are literally trying to destroy our civil society.

Sources include:

TheNewAmerican.com

FreeBeacon.com
(Natural News) Left-wing Democrats love to claim that the concept of a good guy with a gun stopping mass murders is a myth that does not pan out in real life, but of course, like everything else they say on the topic of firearms, that is completely false.

And in fact, they have been proven wrong again in recent days thanks to a good woman with a gun.

According to a report, a West Virginia woman with a concealed carry license did not wait for police to arrive and instead engaged a crazed man armed with an AR-15-rifle who was poised to kill dozens of people attending a graduation party.

Instead of running from the threat, she engaged with the threat and saved several lives last night, Charleston Police Department Chief of Detectives Tony Hazelett told local news WCHS-TV.

The incident took place earlier this week when Dennis Butler, 37, upset by a group of people who were hosting a graduation party, instructed him to slow down as he drove through an apartment complex in the city.

Thirty minutes later he returned, parked his vehicle, jumped in the backseat, and began firing toward a group of about 30-40 people.

But unbeknownst to this lunatic, a law-abiding woman who had a concealed carry weapon permit in the group drew her handgun quickly and engaged Butler with direct fire, killing him.

There was a graduation party, a party with kids, Hazelett told reporters at a press conference. So obviously somebody just graduated high school and another birthday party. We could have had a casualty shooting there.

The chief went on to estimate that between 30 and 40 people were at the parties.

? SHOOTING UPDATE

CPD says the man who was shot last night at Renaissance Circle has died, and his name is Dennis Butler

Before the shooting, he allegedly pulled an AR-15-style rife at a birthday/graduation

CPD tells us a person at the party shot and killed Butler@wchs8fox11  Danielle Dindak (@danielledindak) May 26, 2022

As of this writing, police have not released the name of the woman who killed Butler. No one else was injured in the incident, however.

Police did say, however, that the woman is not part of any law enforcement agency and is just an average law-abiding citizen who became the latest American to put the lie to the lefts claims that good people with guns cant stop bad people from doing bad things.

But that hasnt stopped the anti-gun left from preaching that lie.

On Sunday, Meet The Press host Chuck Todd lamented the horrific shooting in Uvalde, Texas, in which an 18-year-old gunman entered the Robb Elementary School killing 19 children and two adults  without being engaged by any law enforcement, though there were police on the scene.

Todd, who like other left-wing media types is hyper-focused on guns following a pair of recent mass shooting tragedies rather than what could motivate two young men to commit such terrible murders in the first place, insists that thoughts and prayers for victims is nothing and that the Second Amendment is a myth.

Its become our uniquely American ritual of words after each episode of this uniquely American serial tragedy. Thought and prayers, nothing we can do, the Meet the Press host said earlier this week. No law would have stopped this. The real problem is mental illness. If only the victims had been armed. More thoughts and prayers.

As he furthered his argument, Todd claimed: This current version of the Republican Party is being held hostage by a vocal minority obsessed with an absolute right that does not exist.

First of all, the Second Amendment is an absolute right  as absolute as the First Amendments speech protections this clown uses to make a very good living.

But the real big lie is that armed law-abiding citizens do nothing to stop any criminal activity that is pervasive on the Democrat left, in spite of the numerous examples proving otherwise.

See SelfDefense.news for more stories about self-defense shootings that halt violence and save lives.

Sources include:

ZeroHedge.com

CharlieKirk.com
(Natural News) The Washington Post is a deep state regime propaganda rag but in order to maintain credibility, the paper has to resemble an unbiased non-partisan outlet from time to time to keep up appearances.

And apparently, the Post picked massively false data put out by the Anti-Defamation League to seem legitimate this month.

The ADL claims that right-wing extremists are responsible for most killings done on behalf of extremism, but that claim is demonstrably false, and author Daniel Friedman was among those who called the organization out over the lie.

These numbers are manipulable based on who you define as an extremist. ADL reaches these numbers by defining all homicides committed by members of white gangs (mostly prison gangs) as right-wing extremists, while not defining black or Latino gangs as politically motivated, Friedman posted in a tweet quoting Puck News correspondent Julia Ioffe, who tweeted an ADL graphic claiming that right-wing extremists were responsible for nearly 75 percent of extremist-related killings versus around 4 percent for left-wing extremists between 2012 and 2021.

These numbers are manipulable based on who you define as an extremist. ADL reaches these numbers by defining all homicides committed by members ofwhite gangs (mostly prison gangs) as right-wing extremists, while not defining black or Latino gangs as politically motivated. https://t.co/Aol9ayY1Kk  Daniel Friedman (@DanFriedman81) May 20, 2022

Heres a list of offenses included in the data. Any homicide involving any member of a white prison gang, whether the homicide itself is politically motivated or not, is counted as a right-wing extremist homicide, Friedman continued.

Heres a list of offenses included in the data. Any homicide involving any member of a white prison gang, whether the homicide itself is politically motivated or not, is counted as a right-wing extremist homicide: pic.twitter.com/lhqLYaPzae  Daniel Friedman (@DanFriedman81) May 20, 2022

According to the DOJs National Gang Center, about 45% of gang members in the United States are Latino, 35% are black and 11% are white. Latino and black gangs commit a lot of homicide, but only the white gangs are considered extremist groups,' he continued.

If every criminal or prison gang that only admits black members was considered a left-wing black nationalist extremist movement, and every homicide committed by gang members were counted as an extremist killing, then right-wing killings would be eclipsed by left-wing killings, he noted further.

If every criminal or prison gang that only admits black members was considered a left-wing black nationalist extremist movement, and every homicide committed by gang members were counted as an extremist killing, then right-wing killings would be eclipsed by left-wing killings.  Daniel Friedman (@DanFriedman81) May 20, 2022

Last week, the Washington Post came out and called out the ADL for its manipulated data in a piece headlined, Beware the data on American right-wing violence.

The piece noted that the ADLs data was not only manipulated but cherry-picked as well, which makes sense because the ADL is a far-left organization whose primary objective is propagandizing and smearing conservatives:

After all those reports on the threat of right-wing violence, any new case with a tenuous link to the alt-right or the Aryan Brotherhood seems like part of a trend meriting wall-to-wall coverage. Meanwhile, a Black man driving into a parade after making anti-White remarks on Facebook is seen as a sick individual.

RealClearInvestigations also called out the ADL fakery.

The FBI has not issued the official number of murders in the U.S. in 2021, but it is expected to exceed the number of murders in 2020: 21,570  of which, according to ADL, 23 were committed by extremists, Carl Moody, an economist at the College of William & Mary who studies crime, told the outlet.

The data presented by the ADL could also be characterized as follows: the number of murders committed by extremists is very small, only 29 in 2021, of which less than half were committed by white supremacists, Moody said. It is also 63% lower than the maximum number (78) in 2016, so extremism is down since 2016. In 2020, according to the CDC, 1080 people were killed falling out of bed. Therefore, you are 47 times more likely to be killed by a bed than by an extremist.

Meanwhile, as the far-left ADL pushes for domestic terrorism legislation to crack down on alleged neo-Nazis in America, the group is all about funding Ukraine, where real neo-Nazi military units such as the Azov Battalion are located.

These people are gaslighting liars, nothing more.

Sources include:

InformationLiberation.com

WashingtonPost.com

RealClearInvestigations.com
(Natural News) It wasnt that long ago that the mainstream media was filled with stories about a scary new virus that was poised to become the new COVID-19. Cases of monkeypox, they said, were suddenly spiking, and the small possibility of spreading it through respiratory droplets had mask and vaccine makers seeing dollar signs.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that its sudden appearance across several countries is a sign the virus has likely been spreading undetected for quite some time outside of the areas where it usually found in Africa. The disease is marked by prominent infectious lesions and begins with flu-like symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, chills, headache and exhaustion, as well as swollen lymph nodes.

At first, it seemed the media was ready to help its Big Pharma sponsors and scare everyone into thinking we were all going to catch monkeypox just by walking down the street. With any luck, theyd convince the world to start lining up for another new vaccine to keep the risk of the virus at bay. So why has the fear porn suddenly come to a stop?

Media cant tell the truth about monkeypox because they worry about stigmatizing gays

It turns out that most of the cases of the virus have been reported by men seeking care at sexual health clinics after having sex with other men and developing symptoms. In other words, if you are not a man who has sex with other men, your risk appears to be quite low. And by talking about the virus as something undesirable, it could stigmatize gay people, and that would get the social justice warriors out in droves trying to cancel everyone.

Many of the stories about the disease in the media fail to mention that the current outbreak has been linked to two major gay sex parties in Europe. Some media outlets, like NBC News, have described them using less loaded terms like raves. One was actually a Gay Pride event held in Spains Canary Islands that attracted 80,000 people, and the other was a large-scale gay fetish festival held in Belgium known as the Darklands Festival.

Although experts warn that the disease can also be spread through close physical contact with people who have lesions, the signs are so obvious that it should be fairly easy to avoid. But theres another reason this virus isnt sending people into panic mode, not even those who do fall into the high-risk group: it isnt particularly deadly.

In fact, so far, no deaths have been reported from the outbreaks being seen in Europe and North America. Although people do die from it in Africa every year, experts say that they are mostly individuals who do not have access to healthcare.

The disease usually clears up on its own and only lasts a couple of weeks, and most cases are mild. While it can be very uncomfortable to experience, it is nowhere near as threatening as COVID-19 was in its early days.

Even the World Health Organization has acknowledged that there is no need to panic. Their top monkeypox expert, Dr. Rosamund Lewis, said this week: At the moment, we are not concerned about a global pandemic  that word would need to be defined in the context of an orthopox virus  however we are concerned that individuals may acquire this virus through high-risk exposure if they dont have the information they need to protect themselves.

Its pretty clear that those who profited off COVID-19 are now clamoring to find the next pandemic to scare people with, but the element of gay sex transmission involved in monkeypox appears to be keeping the media from creating a global panic. However, it probably wont be long before they come up with a different disease with pandemic potential to frighten the masses.

Sources for this article include:

LifeSiteNews.com

CNBC.com

NBCNews.com
A hillside lion juvenile that strayed in and out of a California middle school campus on Wednesday, was kept in a lecture theatre by a janitor prior to actually getting publicly and properly turn away hours after evacuation.

High School Shocked by a Mountain Lion

Basing on the reports made by local authorities, which was then reported under NBC News, both all the students and workers from California High School were shocked by the unexpected and unannounced visitation of a mountain lion.

As per the Oakland Zoo, the Himalayan lion that found its route inside Pescadero High School in San Mateo District is 6 to 8 months old and most probably an abandoned lion cub.

Just before 8:30 A.M, the youngster was located. A San Mateo District Sheriff 's Station representative stated the incident occurred on Wednesday, while the cleaning crew was prepared to operate the institution.

The San Mateo State police command announced on social networking sites that all pupils as well as employees at Pescadero High School in the municipality of Pescadero were completely secure.

In a tweet, the officials have announced that all employees and investigators were fortunate to confine the puma to a lecture theatre, and that there is zero imminent concern, The Guardian reported.

Furthermore, The US Fish and Wildlife Service was summoned to the school to start removing the puma. According to the state police command, the department is attempting to securely as well as compassionately extract the big cat from the school environment and restore it to its local environment.

A California Division of Fish and Wildlife employee also told the media that the mountain lion is a young puma that has never really harbored resentment. He described it as malnourished and in terrible condition.

Pescadero is a tiny seaside hamlet located around 35 miles south of San Francisco. The zoo claimed it was recovered Wednesday following lunch break and had to be knocked unconscious before apprehension and transfer.

Images obtained by Fox News show the creature alone in the lecture hall, snuggled up beside another work station. According to the state police command, all kids and employees are unharmed.

"Employees and Officers were fortunate to confine the cougar to a school environment, and there is no imminent concern," the sheriff's office said on Newsfeed.

Also read: Call for Action! Catch for Scotland's Wild Salmon are at the Lowest Number on Record

Mountain Lion Locked in a Classroom

It is still unknown how the big cat got inside the school in Pescadero, a little coastal village about 30 miles west of San Jose.

While in the recent post of Times of Nation, the California Bureau of Animal services was summoned, a janitor slammed the entrance of the English lecture hall, locking the cub within. They attempted to let it out on its own, but the big cat really do not want to consider leaving even though it was disoriented and absolutely terrified.

As a safety measure, faculty members and team members were sent back to their own houses for the day, according to the local police station.

The mountain lion will be transferred to a wildlife sanctuary, according to the Oakland Zoo. The creature is also too juvenile to live independently - mountain lions fritter away their initial two years studying from their moms - however, there have been no other mountain lions have been sighted in the vicinity, according to the report.

The mountain lion, a male, is underweight yet generally robust. He was discovered calmly underneath a teacher 's workstation, according to Yahoo report.

Related article: Great White Shark May Be the Culprit For the Extinction of Megalodon
Bats are important animals that face numerous threats every day. Bat conservation is a priority for the US Fish and Wildlife Service. Citizens can also contribute to the cause.

Bats as Pest Controllers

Bats are important pest controllers, pollinators, and seed dispersers. According to recent studies, bats consume enough pests to save the corn industry in the United States over $1 billion per year in crop damage and pesticide costs.

While many bats eat insects, others feed on nectar and provide critical pollination for a variety of plants such as peaches, cloves, bananas, and agaves, saving more than $3 billion per year across all agricultural production.

Bats are the only pollinators for the agave plant. Fruit is a third bat food source, and seed dispersal plays yet another important role in the ecosystem. Fruit-eating bats are responsible for up to 95% of seed dispersal in newly cleared rainforests, which is critical for early growth.

Declining Numbers

Bats are sadly declining all over the world. Many bats are killed unnecessarily because people are unaware of their relevance in maintaining a healthy ecosystem.

The need for winter shelter during hibernation puts bats that hibernate in caves at a disadvantage. The human activity that causes habitat loss and hibernation disruptions are harmful.

To make matters worse, a fungus known as white-nose syndrome has killed over 5 million bats since its discovery in 2006 and is rapidly spreading across North America. People who inadvertently carry the fungus on their shoes, clothing, or equipment can spread it from bat to bat, bat to cave, or even cave to cave. Because many bats hibernate in the same caves during the winter, the fungus can quickly wipe out an entire bat colony.

Read also: Scientists Show Vampire Bats Appeal to Their Colleagues to Share Blood Meals

Conservation

We're working with partners all over the continent to protect bats, research treatments to stop the spread of white-nose syndrome, and raise awareness about how amazing and vulnerable bats are.

More than 15 bat species are federally endangered, threatened, or under consideration in the Endangered Species Act's candidate or petition process.

Many bat species have not been sufficiently studied to determine their conservation requirements. Bat surveys are conducted by biologists and researchers, who use bands and transmitters to learn more about bat movements, habitats, and lifespans. A recent study discovered a large summer roost for Indiana bats in Missouri, where a single tree housed more than 150 endangered Indiana bats!

There are several ways to aid bat conservation. This includes raising awareness, debunking myths, and educating others about the value of bats. Turning off unnecessary lights would also make a difference. The US Fish and Wildlife Service also recommends leaving dead trees in the yard if they are not a hazard, as they may serve as a bat roosting site.

Reduced pesticide use would also help feed bats, which can consume up to 3000 insects per night. Bat boxes and staying out of caves and mines during the winter to allow the bats to hibernate properly are also options. Finally, use humane bat removal techniques.

Related article: In Rwanda, Endangered Rare Bat That Hasn't Been Seen in 40 Years Has Been Sighted!
Viewers' jaws are dropping after seeing a resurfaced video of a giant parasite being extracted from a hornet. The video, which was uploaded to YouTube in 2019 by a man who successfully removed the parasite, goes viral with 10.3 million views.

The video was upvoted 60,000 times in its most recent posting in the "Unexpected" forum on Reddit.

The doctor who attended to the hornet on the video is "Kurosyamo," the video's owner. In the video, he grasps a hornet between his fingers before extracting the parasite with tweezers.

The parasite identified as a Strepsiptera is described as "free-living and highly mobile" and infiltrates a host by actually entering the body, according to North Carolina State's Department of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

Strepsiptera

Strepsiptera, also known as twisted-wing parasites, live inside bees, grasshoppers, leafhoppers, wasps, and other insects as internal parasites

Wired reported in 2015 that there are approximately 600 species of Strepsiptera. The parasite was described as a small parasite that infects the bodies of various insects, where she patiently waits for the young that fill her body to consume her from the inside out.

Strepsiptera males and females are very different. While male parasites have wings, antennae, mandibles, and large eyes, female parasites are described as "a bag of eggs" with no eyes, antennae, or mouthparts by one University of Oxford entomologist.

Strepsiptera, unlike many parasites, have no interest in keeping their hosts alive for long: they use, abuse, and explode out of their bodies, leaving gaping wounds that have no chance of healing, according to Wired.

A study published in Nature in March 2021 looked at the lifespan of Strepsiptera-infected worker wasps and discovered that the parasite can help spread the parasite by extending their lives.

Read also: Thousands of Male Giant Hornets Can be Lured to Death by Sex Traps

The study's authors explained that paper wasps infected with the Strepsipteran parasite (Xenos vesparum) avoid all colony tasks, cluster on vegetation where parasite dispersal and mating take place, hibernate, and infect the next generation of wasp larvae.

Researchers discovered that infected overwintering workers had larger bodies than infected workers who died in the summer after measuring a variety of host and parasite traits, Newsweek reports.

The video shows the doctor somehow locating the parasite "inside" the hornet.

He continues his task, explaining that the hornet is harmless, making it possible for him to extract the parasite using a pair of tweezers.

He eventually yanks on the parasite's visible "end," yanking it out of the relaxed hornet's body. The man places the parasite on his finger at the end of the video, allowing viewers to see what the parasite looked like.

Hornets

Hornets are Vespa wasps that are closely related to and look like yellowjackets. Hornets are commonly regarded as pests, especially when they nest near humans because they will aggressively defend their nest if it is threatened. Even though many people are afraid of their sting, hornets usually suffer the most when their nests are poisoned or destroyed. They are protected in some areas, such as Germany, to preserve their ecological role.

Related article: Bees Activate 'Medicinal Properties' Against Parasite Infection During Pollination
Killer whales and great white sharks could collide in a dangerous ocean encounter, with experts concerned that sharks returning to the US coast could provoke orcas to attack.

Experts fear that a vicious attack between two top ocean-based predators could occur soon off the coast of the United States.

A video was shared of a recent killer whale sighting 40 miles east of Nantucket, Massachusetts, in an area where great white sharks are known to congregate.

When the toothed whale passed by his boat in the waters of normally shark-dominated territory, fisherman Jerry Leeman captured video of the orca, also known as the killer whale.

Leeman narrated in the video that the Killer whale is the apex predator of the sea.

The killer whale's rare sighting coincides with sharks' return to the coast for the summer months, raising fears that the two killer beasts will collide.

Killer whales are the only predators that pose a threat to great whites, according to The Sun.

Orca - Great Whites Conflict

An Andromache, a 10-foot-long female great white shark, is said to be in the area, with research organization OCEARCH tracking the killer fish near where Leeman spotted the orca.

With a history of orcas harassing and killing sharks, OCEARCH's chief scientist, Bob Hueter, believes "there can be conflict" between the two predators.

Hueter explained that if the orca stays or if others show up this summer, it could have an impact on the white sharks that normally feed on seals in the area. He went on to say that the two species might compete for the Cape's grey seals.

According to a 2019 study, great white sharks flee when killer whales approach, and two orcas off the coast of South Africa are accused of repeatedly killing great whites.

Read also: Tilikum: Grim History of SeaWorld's Killer Orca That Violently Killed 3 People

Previous Orca vs. Shark Ordeals

Tourists on a whale-watching boat near San Francisco witnessed two killer whales attack and consume the liver of a great white shark in October 1997.

National Geographic reports that it was, at that time, the first documented sighting of killer whales eating white sharks. The incident sparked new lines of research, as well as some intriguing questions for Alisa Schulman-Janiger, a biologist, and a research associate at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. The biologist pondered on how any ocean predator could dominate the almighty great white.

Five white sharks were discovered beached on the Western Cape of South Africa in 2017. Even though no one saw the South African killer whales, also known as orcas, kill the sharks, orcas were the most likely suspects.

Scot Anderson, a seasonal researcher for Monterey Bay Aquarium, explains that the incidents show that interactions between these two predators can have significant consequences for the food chain. For example, his recent research shows that orcas scare sharks away from elephant seal colonies in the Farallon Islands, which benefits seals, which are the great white's main prey.

Following the 1997 attack, the entire great white population, about a hundred animals, left the islands early and missed out on their annual seal feast.

Related article: For the First Time, Scientists Record Orcas Hunting the Largest Animals on Earth
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Following an unusually warm May for the region, June is already off to a warm start for much of the south-central United States.

According to AccuWeather experts, Mother Nature is about to crank up the heat and throw areas of the region into blistering temperatures early next week, threatening numerous daily temperature records.

The nation's electrical infrastructure is under strain like never before, with officials warning that the rolling outages currently common in California and Texas might become considerably more prevalent when hot summer weather approaches.

Heatwave in texas

Beginning Sunday, a northward change in the jet stream will allow abnormally hot air to pour out of Mexico and into parts of the South Central states and the Four Corners area.

Temperatures will be on the increase in areas ranging from New Mexico and Texas north into Colorado and Kansas by Sunday.

While temperatures will surge above average in several regions on Sunday, experts predict that the most severe component of this hot air will settle over a big expanse of Texas.

This unusually hot weather will continue for the rest of the week, with temperatures in several regions reaching triple digits.

Temperatures in Abilene, San Antonio, and Austin, Texas, are generally around 90 degrees Fahrenheit in early June, but are expected to rise beyond 100 degrees Fahrenheit Sunday through Tuesday.

Daily high-temperature records in Austin and San Antonio will be threatened for three days in a row.

Temperatures in locations like Abilene will reach 105 degrees Fahrenheit by Monday.

Temperatures in certain places in southern Texas along the border with Mexico will rise much higher.

On Monday, air temperatures in Laredo, Texas, roughly 150 miles southwest of San Antonio, will be near 110 degrees Fahrenheit.

The current prediction for the city on Monday is 108, which would tie the 2018 daily high.

During the warmest portion of the day, temperatures may rise slightly above the ambient temperature.

Heat-related ailments such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke will become more common when the heat wave spreads over Texas and southeastern New Mexico early next week.

Forecasters advise inhabitants in impacted regions to stay hydrated and, if possible, minimize their time outside during the warmest portion of the day.

Read more: Heatwave to Hit the UK in April and Climate Change is to Blame: Met Office Forecast

Power grids will undergo stress again

A vast section of the Midwest, which has had reliable power for decades, is suddenly facing estimates that it may be unable to cope with a heat wave, as per The Washington post.

The regional system lacks the electricity required to power 3.7 million residences.

After a regional utility warned of impending blackouts, New Mexico's attorney general is prepared for "worst-case scenarios."

North Dakota authorities have urged the state to be prepared for rolling outages, Arkansas officials are planning emergency energy conservation measures, and Arizona power firms are already warning about next year.

While indicators of trouble with America's electricity infrastructure have been present for years, the recent warnings have astonished even those who have been sounding the alarm.

This is due to the fact that extreme weather caused by climate change, as well as the early retirement of fossil fuel facilities, has expedited the instability of the grid, which is already weakened by a lack of investment.

Related article: Heatwave 2022: Scorching Temperatures Recorded in India and Pakistan for April
A nursery of killer bugs lies hidden in the foothills of Western Colorado, inside an ordinary laboratory. The exotic insects are intentionally released into the wild by specialists like Kristi Gladem of the Palisade Insectary to provide biological control against exotic species of bugs and vegetation that are posing a threat to the nation's food and water supply, at a cost of $26 billion per year, according to the US. Agriculture Department.

Invasive species in agriculture

She emphasized that biological management aims to restore the predator-prey balance of these invading species, as per CBS News.

When you return to their natural predators, you are engaging in a millennia-long evolutionary arms race in which these predators are far more capable of reducing the pest population than humans can ever be.

The Palisade Insectary was born in the 1940s when international trade began unintentionally bringing invasive bugs into the country.

It is one of three facilities in the country that offer pesticide-free eradication to public lands and organic producers.

Brant Harrison, who has been cultivating organic peaches for decades, referred to the method as the "savior of the fruit farming business."

There are many issues that we cannot address naturally in a significant sense, he told CBS News.

Every killer bug is examined for up to 20 years in controlled exterior settings to ensure it's doesn't prey on other local species, according to Gladem.

The federal government also monitors the studies. Twenty-seven control agents have been developed, with a reported success rate of 100%.

Gladem is currently concentrating on two significant threats: the water-sucking yellow thistle, which has entered 25% of water stress California, and the ash borer, which destroys trees and adds to the drought of West's wildfires.

Read more: Biological Pest Control Saved Coconut Farmers in Asia Billions of Dollars

Biological control

Invasive plants can endanger native species, ecosystems, human health, and many economic sectors, including agriculture, forestry, and tourism, as per CABI.

Non-native or exotic plant species will be those who grow even outside their natural range. One of the reasons these non-native plants may become invasive is a lack of natural enemies that restrict their vigor, density, and dispersal.

The employment of live creatures such as insects, mites, or fungal infections to manage pest populations is known as classical biological control, or biocontrol.

It evens the playing field by returning some of the specialized natural enemies that aid in the suppression of invasive species in their native area.

The goal is not to exterminate the invasive plant, but to reduce its density to an acceptable ecological or biological threshold.

Biological control of invasive species through co-evolved natural enemies has long been seen to be a safe, cost-effective, and ecologically friendly pest management method, as per the journal, Biological Control of Invasive Species: Solution or Pollution?

Recent research, however, has called into question the extent to which these imported natural enemies have a deleterious influence on non-target species populations.

As a result, there has been a heated discussion concerning the safety and legitimate purpose of biological control, with neither side providing persuasive data.

The difficulties are particularly acute in Hawaii, which has a high concentration of both endemic and imported pest species.

Related article: Pest Control: Olive Farmers Have New Methods to Combat Destructive Fruit Flies
Invasive species have become a worldwide issue. The number of non-native species in European seas has climbed to about 1,300 in the previous 20 years. The problem is most serious in the Mediterranean Sea, which is home to 69 percent of them, although only 10% are considered invasive.

Mediterranean Invasion

Species like the Atlantic blue crab in Catalonia and the lionfish in Cyprus can endanger native marine life.

When a species spreads in vast numbers, it causes substantial ecological difficulties, such as out-competing native species, or it causes problems for people in terms of employment and livelihoods.

How They Reached There

These animals are introduced into new areas in various ways, but the primary reason is human activity.

The primary global culprits, according to researchers, are commerce and commercial boats.

Small creatures can be transported to other seas by attaching themselves to ships or being carried within their ballast water, which is used to balance the ship when it is not loaded with cargo. All the small creatures that were pulled in with the water at the beginning are released into the new environment when the boats release this water to load their cargo.

Aquaculture and imports are the second most important factors in species invasion. Researchers assume that roughly 46% of non-native species in Northern European oceans entered via oyster culture imports via propagules (what an organism makes to replicate itself) in the shells.

"Because the oyster shells are so complicated, you have all kinds of different species' propagules, including tunicates and seaweeds." As a result, they've begun to expand and infect nations like France, Spain, and the United Kingdom," said Jason Hall-Spencer, a marine biology professor in Plymouth.

Also Read: Throwing Goldfish in Rivers May Result to Ecological Disaster, Experts Warn Pet Owners

Invasive Breeding Place

What has caused the Mediterranean to become such a breeding ground for non-native species?

Hundreds of invasive species have entered the Mediterranean through the Suez Canal, said Hall-Spencer, who has previously worked in Cyprus to prevent the lionfish invasion.

Man-Mande Canal

The man-made canal connects the Mediterranean Sea to Egypt's Red Sea. It is a vital commerce route between Europe and Asia since it cuts the distance traveled by ship by 9,000 kilometers.

The second most crucial component in species invasion is aquaculture and imports. Researchers estimate that oyster culture imports introduced over 46% of non-native species in Northern European seas via propagules (organisms that make themselves multiply) in the shells.

Because oyster shells are so complicated, you get all kinds of different species' propagules, including tunicates and seaweeds, said Jason Hall-Spencer, a marine biology professor in Plymouth. As a result, they've begun to spread and infect nations like France, Spain, and the United Kingdom.

Climate change is causing the Eastern Mediterranean to warm faster than the rest of the world. As a result, many Red Sea species thrive in the conditions found in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea, such as near Cyprus or Lebanon. As a result, we're seeing them infiltrate and thrive, Hall-Spencer explained.

It's a combination effect, then. The canal is the primary cause of the problem, but the temperature of the water is approaching that of the Red Sea, he noted.

Non-native species thrive in the Mediterranean for various causes, including climate change and commerce. Overfishing is also a major problem, as it eliminates their natural predators.

There's an extreme biodiversity problem [in the Mediterranean Sea] because people are hunting and killing all of the large fish. And it tipped the system in favor of microscopic creatures, Hall-Spencer explained.

Are All Invasive Species Dangerous?

Invasive species are not all dangerous, although some are ravenous predators.

Some species, such as the Pacific oyster, are relatively unharmful to the environment. On the other hand, others can have catastrophic consequences, not just for biodiversity but also for the local economy.

"Fish are a particular concern in the Mediterranean because they devour other fish and invertebrates," Hall-Spencer explained.

For example, the Red Sea pufferfish is exceedingly dangerous to humans and cannot be eaten. They are vicious predators who have been known to break fishing nets to get access to the prey within.

If they are captured in a net with other fish, they will attack and poison them, causing the entire catch to be spoiled.

Fierce Predator

The lionfish is a powerful predator, but it has one advantage over the pufferfish in terms of economics: it makes a nice meal.

Hall-Spencer worked on RELIONMED, a European Union-funded initiative to identify measures to lower Cyprus' population size.

The organization organized teams of divers to hunt the fish as part of the operation.

Related Article: Top 5 Most Destructive Invasive Species Today

For the most recent updates from the animal kingdom, don't forget to follow Nature World News!
Anegada, Cychlora cream, thrives in places that are flat, barren, and salty. The island seems like a tough place to make a living.

Michael Young, who works in iguana conservation for the Virgin Islands National Parks Trust, explained that for the iguana species on the island, the seemingly unbearable landscape is heaven.

The 10-mile-long island is known for its vast coral reefs, sandy beaches, and flocks of flamingos, and has a population of fewer than 300 people.

The iguana, which could grow up to five feet long and weigh 15 pounds, was the largest vertebrate on this planet for millions of years. Despite the iguana's ferocity, it has been brought to its knees by unlikely predators, such as feral cats that prey on juveniles.

There are very few Anegada rock iguanas, unlike the green overflow iguana, which is native to Central and South America and has been widely introduced elsewhere. The pre-settlement population of about 10,000 iguanas had decreased to about 200 by the 1990s.

Conservation Efforts

Kelly Bradley, a conservation biologist at the Fort Worth Zoo who has worked with this iguana since 2001, estimates that native snakes, Puerto Rican runners, and American birds take up to half of the juveniles in the first week.

This is natural; these animals have spent thousands of years together. Non-native feral cats that are effective predators are upsetting the balance. Iguanas are eaten like popcorn, and only a few survive to adulthood.

The cats most likely arrived in the 18th century with colonial settlers and quickly spread across the island. They have no natural predators, and as their population has grown, the iguana population has dwindled to the point where human intervention is required, The Washington Post reports.

Read also: Iguanas are Falling From Trees in Florida Due to Extreme Freezing Temperature

Every summer, Young and Bradley scour the countryside for new iguana nests - tunnels leading to deep chambers where they lay their eggs. Finding a single nest can take days.

They build a nest and hang large steel collars to hunt the emerging young, which can number in the hundreds in a good year. They take them to a "scoop" facility, where they are raised in cages for several years until they are old enough to defend themselves against cats. The experts release the reptiles back into the wild once they deem it is ready to stave off or face its feline predator.

The program was able to release 274 iguanas. In the first two years, Bradley kept track of dozens of radios and more than 80% of them survived.

Hurricane Irma hit Anegada in 2017, just before baiting season, when the team did not catch any events. The British Virgin Islands were then closed during the pandemic, while the island was still recovering from the hurricane. Bradley's fieldwork has been limited in recent years due to both events, and she and Young have collected fewer iguanas.

Young says there have been as many as 64 captive iguanas at the starting facility in previous years, but there are now 48. The Virgin Islands National Parks Foundation built the facility, which includes educational panels about iguanas and the island's flora and fauna. Young shows four American tourists around the area when they arrive.

Related article: Complex Structure Allows Lizards to Keep Their Detachable Tails from Falling Off
Florida received a substantial amount of rainfall from an unnamed storm system over the past several days, causing widespread flash floods and urban flooding.

In particular, the system placed South Florida and the Florida Keys into a standstill as disruption to both residential and commercial establishments have been reported, as well affecting local travel.

As part of recurring US weather updates this week, the weather disturbance is the same tropical storm system that has been lurking over Florida and the Gulf Coast of the United States.

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) sought the issuance of flood watches for Florida, Cuba, and the Bahamas earlier.

The tropical storm also had its roots from the remnants of former Hurricane Agatha which made landfall into the Oaxaca State of South Mexico on Monday, May 30.

Earlier weather forecasts suggested the weather system will develop into the first named storm called "Alex" of the US hurricane season in 2022.

There has been no official hurricane-season related storms that have formed and struck the US since the start of the year.

However, previous weather reports of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) indicated the 2022 Atlantic hurricane season will be above-average.

Florida Flooding

Based on its latest US weather alert, the NOAA's National Weather Service (NWS) stated heavy rain will continue to bring flash flooding and urban flooding in multiple areas across South Florida and the Keys in the coming days.

This is due to the system's current navigation of crossing the Sunshine State from the Gulf of Mexico into the Atlantic Ocean in a northeastward pattern.

According to the NWS Weather Prediction Center (WPC), the inclement weather is associated with the NHC's abbreviation of the system called "Potential Tropical Cyclone One" or "Potential Tropical Cyclone 1."

Although it failed to develop into a storm, the US agencies are still expecting it to strengthen as it moves away into the north Atlantic waters.

As of Saturday morning, June 4, the following areas in Florida recorded significant rainfall over the past 72 hours, as reported by AccuWeather:

Miami

Biscayne Park

Palmetto Bay

Key Largo

Goulds

The WPC weather advisory remains applicable on Sunday, June 5 and Monday, June 6.

Also Read: Tropical Storm Alex to Soak Florida Before the Week Ends

2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season

The intensity of the weather system caused a regional impact not only for the Southeast US but also to the Caribbean region.

In Cuba, at least two people have been reported killed as continuous heavy downpour led to massive flooding across the country, forcing the evacuation of approximately 2,000 people and resulting in power outages affecting 50,000 customers, according to the BBC.

This came after Hurricane Agatha killed nine people in Mexico, making it the strongest hurricane in the Central American country for the month of May.

According to an NOAA assessment on May 24, there is a 65% chance the region will see an above-average hurricane season, a 25% rate of near-normal season, and a small 10% chance of a below-normal season.

The US agency predicted that this could be the case due to the ongoing La Nina, a weather pattern that alters ocean surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean which; affecting the global weather, including the frequency and intensity of storms.

Related Article: US Weather Update: Tropical Disturbance Could Hit Florida, Gulf Coast States from June 3
Film Critic

Chuck Koplinski is The News-Gazette's film critic. His email is chuckkoplinski@gmail.com and you can follow him on Twitter (@ckoplinski).
Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service covering state government that is distributed to more than 400 newspapers statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation.
Aurora Mayor Richard Irvin, left, who is running for the Republican nomination for governor, and Gov. J.B. Pritzker both spoke at campaign stops Wednesday, the day a law repealing a requirement for parents of minors to be notified of abortions took effect. Pritzker touted Illinois support for abortion under his leadership while Irvins conference was related to crime rates.
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Perry C. Morris is vice president of the Champaign County History Museum. He has a special interest in local theater history and shares his research at

cutheaterhistory.com. He can be reached at orpheumhistory@gmail.com.
Mary Lucille Hays teaches writing at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and Zhejiang University in Haining, China. You can see pictures about this weeks post on Instagram @BirdlandLetters. Mary can be reached at letterfrombirdland@gmail.com or via snail mail care of the Journal-Republican, 118 E. Washington St., Monticello, IL 61856.
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A few clouds. Low around 55F. Winds NNW at 10 to 20 mph.
Brett Kepley is a lawyer with Land of Lincoln Legal Aid Inc. Send questions to The Law Q&A, 302 N. First St., Champaign, IL 61820.
Vikram David Amar is dean and Jason Mazzone is a professor and director of the Illinois Program in Constitutional Theory, History and Law at the University of Illinois College of Law.
A recent study of Black women found that growing up in an unsafe neighborhood was associated with poorer sleep in adulthood.

A total of 1,611 Black women in Detroit, Michigan, who enrolled in the Study of Environment, Lifestyle and Fibroids reported their perceived childhood neighborhood safety at ages 5, 10 and 15 years. Participants also reported their sleep duration, quality, and insomnia symptoms.

Results show that those who perceived their neighborhood as unsafe versus safe at each age were more likely to frequently wake up feeling unrested as adults. Short sleep duration of less than seven hours and frequently waking up feeling unrested during adulthood were reported by approximately 60% of women, and 10% reported frequent insomnia symptoms. Perceived unsafe neighborhood at ages 5 and 15 years was associated with frequent insomnia symptoms and frequently waking up feeling unrested, respectively. Participants who perceived their neighborhood as unsafe at age 10 years had a marginally higher prevalence of both frequently waking up feeling unrested and frequent insomnia symptoms during adulthood.

Due to structural racism and historical practices of redlining as well as contemporary residential segregation, Black/African American children are disproportionately overrepresented in neighborhoods characterized by concentrated poverty and being unsafe. Our results suggest that intervening to help make a child's neighborhood feel safe, a modifiable target in which both communities and policy makers can intercede, may help prevent other downstream risk factors, namely poor sleep health, before it develops and potentially negatively impacts both mental and physical health." Symielle Gaston, lead author

Symielle Gaston has a doctorate in epidemiology and is a research fellow with the National Institute of Environmental Health Science.

Gaston added that while addressing neighborhood safety at any age is important, middle childhood may be an optimal time for safety and sleep interventions since relationships between perceived safety with adulthood sleep were most consistent. She hopes to continue this line of research using objective measures over the life course and in different geographic areas.

This study was funded by the Division of Intramural Research within NIEHS, part of the National Institutes of Health, and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds designated for NIH research.
An international team led by a University of Massachusetts Amherst food and environmental virologist has received a $750,000 USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) partnership grant to develop and test portable, rapid biosensors capable of detecting noroviruses and mycotoxins in foods and agricultural products. It is among the first partnership grants awarded with an international partner by the USDA.

Noroviruses are the leading cause of foodborne illness globally, and are highly contagious, causing pandemics every few years, says lead investigator Matthew Moore, assistant professor of food science. Moore will work with UMass Amherst food science colleague John Gibbons, a fungi expert, and food science Ph.D. candidate Sloane Stoufer in the Moore Lab. The UMass team will collaborate with senior lecturer and principal investigator Marloes Peeters and postdoctoral research associate Jake McClements at Newcastle University's School of Engineering in England.

People can get really sick from foods that contain viruses and toxins. We need a way to quickly and easily find out if a food contains these contaminants in a cheap but effective way  without the need to go back to a separate lab to do the testing." Matthew Moore, assistant professor of food science, UMass Amherst

Mycotoxins are toxic substances produced by fungi that can grow in warm and humid conditions on crops and food, in particular in many grains, produce, nuts, seeds and spices. They represent a growing threat to public health in the face of climate change trends and increased consumption of plant-based foods, Moore says.

"One of the interesting things about mycotoxins as a foodborne contaminant is that they're often not very acute, so you're less likely to notice it," Moore says. "Oftentimes, the damage they do is more chronic, and they will mess with the kidneys and liver especially and can promote cancer."

That makes early detection all the more important. "With this technology we're trying to create a cheap, highly durable, and potentially reusable sensor that can detect these contaminants," Moore says.

The UMass Amherst food scientists got together with engineers at Newcastle University to seek a rare international partnership grant from the USDA's NIFA. The British engineers are world leaders in electrochemical sensing techniques based on generating molecularly imprinted polymer nanoparticles (nanoMIPs).

"The grant enables an unprecedented international exchange," Moore says. The UMass team will learn more about the application of nanoMIPs when they visit the Peeters Lab at Newcastle, and the UK team will be hosted by Moore's Applied and Environmental Virology Lab to gain knowledge about virological, microbiological and food science techniques.

"This nanoMIP-based sensing technology has numerous advantages," Moore says. "It is very stable in intense conditions, and very portable. It is also quite inexpensive, a very important consideration in testing for foods."

NanoMIP-based electrochemical sensing is an exciting new application for agricultural targets. "The technology has already shown promise for other targets, including SARS-CoV-2, and we hope to further explore its potential for human noroviruses and mycotoxins," Moore says.
New findings led by researchers at the American Cancer Society (ACS) show the number of women in the United States who reported having a recent (in the past year) breast cancer or cervical cancer screening dropped by 2.13 million (6%) and 4.47 million (11%) respectively in 2020 compared to 2018. The study is the first of its kind to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cancer screenings nationally using population-based data. The results are published today in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Open Network.

COVID-19 pandemic had an immediate impact in March and April of 2020, as screenings initially dropped by close to 80%. Many people caught up on screenings later in 2020, but overall, the COVID-19 pandemic kept screenings down over the course of the entire year. As we move forward, it's crucial to get people back into their doctor's offices to get screened." Dr. Ahmedin Jemal, senior vice president, surveillance & health equity science at the American Cancer Society and senior author of the study

The study also found that between 2018 and 2020 colonoscopies for colorectal cancer detection in the past year dropped by 16% for both men and women but was offset by an increase in stool testing of 7%. This showed the promise of at-home testing to maintain population-wide screening rates during a major healthcare disruption.

In other study findings:

Hispanic and lower-income people experienced sharper drops in past-year breast and cervical cancer screening, reflecting newly emerging barriers and exacerbation of long-standing barriers to cancer screening.

Asian/Pacific Islander women had a 27% drop in past-year breast cancer screening, the largest drop for any race.

Hispanic women had a 17% drop in past-year cervical cancer screening.

The drop in screening in the past year nearly doubled for non-high school graduates compared to college graduates. Non-high school graduates dropped by 11% for breast cancer screening and 17.7% for cervical cancer screening, compared to 6.1% and 9.5% respectively for college graduates.

"The impact of these drops on stage at diagnosis and survival is not yet known, but it is something we need to monitor closely," said Jemal. "It is imperative that we understand the impact of lower screening rates on cancer outcomes among people of color and people of lower socioeconomic standing and also work to improve access to health care and cancer screenings for everyone."

"Regular screening for cancer can help save lives. This important study is further evidence of how critical it is to get people back on track with their regular screening tests following COVID-19," said Dr. William Dahut, chief scientific officer at the American Cancer Society. "Screening campaigns like our Get Screened campaign continue to aim to increase cancer screening rates by raising awareness about the need for recommended screenings for breast, cervical, colorectal, prostate, and lung cancers."

Dahut adds, "Screening is safe, effective, and accessible. Facilities that offer screening services have COVID-19 safety precautions in place. Many states have low or reduced-cost screening programs to help ensure that everyone has access, even people who don't have insurance or a primary care doctor."
(Newser)  Update: An Indian man accused of faking a summit of Everest in 2016 was handed a six-year ban on climbing in Nepaland just days after its expiration on May 20, he made it to the top of Everest, reports the AFP. Narender Singh Yadav made sure the feat was thoroughly documented and attested to by the two Sherpas who accompanied him; you can see photos on Twitter. "For me, May 27, 2022, is my rebirth," the 26-year-old said, per the New York Times. "This time I summited in six days, without acclimatization. It was to show to all the people who defamed me. I have suffered a lot." Our original story from February 2021 follows:

Two Indian climbers who claimed to have summited Mount Everest, making them eligible for national awards, actually faked the ascent. That's according to authorities in Nepal, who began investigating after questions were raised about the pair's 2016 summit photo. At first glance, Narender Singh Yadav and Seema Rani Goswami appeared to be huddled at the top of the world. But one climber wore an oxygen mask unconnected to an oxygen tank and held flags that were completely straight, suggesting a lack of wind, per Everest Today. Plus there were shadows in opposite directions.

Government investigators were pointed to these issues in August, after Yadav was selected to receive India's highest award for adventure sports, reports the New York Times. Yadar, who was 21 in 2016, now claims to have climbed the highest mountain on five of the seven continents. Nepalese tourism officials had initially believed the evidence presented for Everest, awarding Yadav and Goswami official climbing certificates in 2016. However, the government now says the submitted photos were faked. "Their claims for Everest summit couldn't be established," an official tells the Times.

This comes after two other Indian climbers, husband and wife police officers, were found to have doctored summit photos in 2016. The Times notes Indians who summit Everest "are often given national awards." Or, if they work for the government, they might receive "promotions and lifelong benefits." Yadav denies that this was his motive, however. He maintains the climb happened and has filed a police complaint against his Nepalese guide. Climbers found to have faked a summit climb may be banned from all of Nepal's mountains for 10 years. (Everest has a new official height.)
(Newser)  Palm oil is in half of all packaged supermarket products, not only in foods but also cosmetics. The stout palm oil tree has always been an important food source in its native West Africa, but its use in global consumer products has exploded in the past few decades. Today, Indonesia and Malaysia are the largest producers, but Guatemala is the biggest source in Central America. Like other palm economies, it is plagued by problems borne from and enabled by the worlds appetite for cheap vegetable fat, according to a report in the Baffler by Alessandra Bergamin, who found evidence of greed, corruption, ecocide, and murder in the Peten region, which accounts for a third of Guatemalas land area.

First, company reps arrive promising big economic opportunity, but its nothing more than a land grab. Those who resist are threatened and soon find their lands encircled. Aside from stripping the land of biodiversity, palm plantations require oxidation ponds to collect insecticides and palm effluent. The latter is organic waste that is one hundred times more polluting than domestic sewage if left untreated. In Peten, a pond overflow poisoned the Pasion River in 2015, killing thousands of fish. Attempts at legal redress were met with a spate of kidnappings, a murder by masked gunmen, and a return to business as usual. The Geneva-based Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil provides Certified Sustainable Palm Oil tags to producers who meet certain social and environmental standards, but Bergamins reporting suggests community complaints are ignored in the process. Read the full story. (Read more palm oil stories.)
(Newser)  You might say Springfield, Missouri, is the cheese capital of America, not because its known for great cheese but because the USDA maintains a hoard of 1.4 billion pounds of cheese in caves beneath the town. The so-called Springfield Underground has been there for decades, but its exact purpose has shifted over time, according to Modern Farmer. It all started with a basic supply-and-demand problem: milk production peaks during the spring calving season, but consumer demand for milk peaks in fall, when schools reopen. Dairy farmers rely on increased capacity to meet that demand, but their cows still make the most milk in the springtime, which can create big surpluses that drag down prices.

To stabilize markets, the USDA introduced the Dairy Product Price Support Program in 1949 and started buying surplus milk in the form of cheese. When prices rose above a specified level, the government opened the cheese reserves; when prices dipped, the government simply bought more cheese. The unintended consequences reached absurd levels when milk prices spiraled due to economic problems in the 1970s. To save dairy farmers, the Carter administration started buying cheese at an unprecedented rate, thus encouraging overproduction and creating a massive surplus. By 1984, there were five pounds of government cheese for every American, and it was getting moldy, per Atlas Obscura.

The Reagan administration distributed as much as possible through food assistance programs, and the government has been trying to wean itself off surplus cheese ever since. Meanwhile, American milk consumption has declined steeply since 1975, but that hasnt stopped dairy farmers from overproducing. In 2016, the industry literally dumped 43 million gallons of unwanted milk. The USDA helped cut the glut then by purchasing $20 million worth of fresh cheese. Today, the government still buys and stores cheese for food assistance programs; however, only about 300 million pounds in the Springfield Underground are owned by We the People. Kraft and other private cheesemakers store their goods there now, instead. (Read more cheese stories.)
(Newser)  The storm system that made landfall in Mexico as Hurricane Agatha has reached Florida, bringing heavy rain and winds and flooding roads on Saturday. Officials in Miami, where downtown streets flooded overnight, warned residents not to try to drive or walk through the standing water, the Orlando Sentinel reports. Many cars became stuck when drivers attempted to plow through the flooding. "This is a dangerous and life-threatening situation," officials warned residents, per the AP. The storm will be known as Alex if it reaches tropical storm levels, which could happen late Saturday.

Heavy rainfall in Cuba from the storm caused landslides and damaged homes. At least two people were killed, officials said. Forecasters expect the system to pick up speed in Florida as it turns east-northeast on Sunday, heading into the Atlantic before turning east on Monday night. Ten inches or so of rain could fall in parts of South Florida, including the Keys, the National Hurricane Center said; downtown Miami had received 11 inches by 9am Saturday, per WTVJ. Osceola, Brevard, and Polk counties appear likely to be hit hard, forecasters said. (Read more flooding stories.)
(Newser)  Japanese adventurer Kenichi Horie at 83 just became the oldest person in the world to complete a solo, nonstop voyage across the Pacific Oceanand he says he is still "in the middle of my youth" and not done yet, reports the AP. Horie returned home as he crossed the Kii Strait off Japans western coast early Saturday, completing his trans-Pacific solo voyage in 69 days after leaving a yacht harbor in San Francisco in late March. On Sunday, after spending the night on his 19-foot-long Suntory Mermaid III just off the coast, Horie was towed into his home port of Shin Nishinomiya, where he was cheered by local residents and supporters and banners that read: "Welcome back, Mr. Kenichi Horie!"

In 1962, he became the first person in the world to successfully complete a solo nonstop voyage across the Pacific from Japan to San Francisco. Sixty years later, he traveled the opposite route. As he approached the harbor, Horie took off his white cap and waved. He got off the yacht, took off the cap again and bowed deeply on the pier before he was presented with bouquets of roses. "Thank you for waiting!" said Horie, who appeared tanned and with his white hair longer than usual. He carried a stock of medicine from San Francisco, he said, but only used eye drops and Band-Aids during his more than two months alone at sea. "That shows how healthy I am," Horie said. "I'm still in the middle of my youth."

Soon after his departure from San Francisco, he was faced with a storm, but the weather gradually improved and he reached Hawaii in mid-April ahead of schedule. He had some struggles toward the end with a few days of pushback from a strong tide. He wrote on his blog on Friday that he had succeeded but was exhausted, and he took a nap after feeling assured that his yacht was on the right track to the finish line. Horie has completed other long-distance solo voyages, including sailing around the world in 1974. His latest expedition was the first since his 2008 solo nonstop voyage on a wave-powered boat from Hawaii to the Kii Strait.

(Read more sailing record stories.)
(Newser)  "This is the worst that you can possibly imagine. It doesnt get any worse." So said Andy Kahan of Crime Stoppers Houston in asking the public to donate to a GoFundMe campaign set up to cover the funeral costs of four boysthree brothers and their cousinand their grandfather, who were murdered by a prison escapee in Texas. Waylon Collins, 18; Karson Collins, 16; Hudson Collins, 11; and their cousin Bryson Collins, also 11, on Thursday arrived with their grandfather at the family ranch northwest of Houston for what the Guardian terms "a southern boys dream: shooting guns, taking boats on big ponds and fishing." Within hours, the boys and grandfather Mark Collins were dead at the hands of Gonzalo Lopez, who had escaped from a prison bus three weeks prior.

CNN reports the Collins family ranch was within the perimeter police had been searching, and the Guardian reports authorities looking for Lopez had visited the ranch a number of times during their search. Family friend David Crain said investigators found that Lopez had broken into a neighboring property on Monday, but it's possible Mark Collins wasn't made aware of that. The Washington Post reports it's unclear whether Lopez was in the Centerville ranch when the family arrived or came upon them later. Lopez was later killed in a shootout.

NBC News reports a statement that was shared by relatives reads, "These precious people who loved and were loved by so many will never be forgotten. The impact on their family and friends cannot be overstated." ABC13 notes Waylon Collins had graduated high school just days before he was murdered. The GoFundMe campaign has raised more than $260,000 as of this writing. (Read more murder stories.)
(Newser)  North Korea test-fired a barrage of short-range ballistic missiles from multiple locations toward the sea on Sunday, South Koreas military said, extending a provocative streak in weapons demonstrations this year that US and South Korean officials say may culminate with a nuclear test explosion. Possibly setting a single-day record for North Korean ballistic launches, eight missiles were fired in succession over 35 minutes from at least four different locations, including from western and eastern coastal areas and two inland areas north of and near the capital, Pyongyang, South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff said.

It said the missiles flew 68 to 416 miles at maximum altitudes of 15 to 56 miles, reports the AP. Hours later, Japan and the United States conducted a joint ballistic missile exercise aimed at showing their rapid response capability" and strong determination to counter threats, Japans Defense Ministry said in a statement. Discussing the launches with his national security officials, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol lamented that North Korea was firing missiles at a pace of once every nine days this year. Indeed, the launches marked North Koreas 18th round of missile tests in 2022 alonea streak that has included the countrys first demonstrations of intercontinental ballistic missiles in nearly five years.

Experts say North Korean leader Kim Jong Un wants to force the United States to accept the idea of the North as a nuclear power and negotiate economic and security concessions from a position of strength. South Korean and US officials say there are signs that North Korea is also pressing ahead with preparations at its nuclear testing ground in the northeastern town of Punggye-ri. The Norths next nuclear test would be its seventh since 2006 and the first since September 2017, when it claimed to have detonated a thermonuclear bomb to fit on its ICBMs. (Read more North Korea stories.)
(Newser)  Ann Turner Cook, whose cherubic baby face was known the world over as the original Gerber baby, has died. She was 95. Gerber announced Cook's passing in an Instagram post on Friday. "Many years before becoming an extraordinary mother, teacher and writer, her smile and expressive curiosity captured hearts everywhere and will continue to live on as a symbol for all babies," the company said, per the AP. Cook was 5 months old when a neighbor, artist Dorothy Hope Smith, drew a charcoal sketch of her that was later submitted for a contest Gerber was holding for a national marketing campaign for baby food.

The image was a hit, so much so that it became the company's trademark in 1931 and has been used in all packaging and advertising since. For decades, though, the identity of the baby was kept secret, spurring rumors about who it was with guesses including Humphrey Bogart and Elizabeth Taylor. In the late 1970s, it was revealed to be Cook, who grew up to be an English teacher in Tampa, Florida, and later a mystery novelist.

Cook told the AP in a 1998 interview that her mother had told her when she was young that she was the baby in the illustration. She said, "If youre going to be a symbol for something, what could be more pleasant than a symbol for baby food?" As for the image itself, she said, "All babies are appealing. The reason that drawing has been so popular is the artist captured the appeal that all babies have." (Read more obituary stories.)
(Newser)  Update: The man accused of murdering a retired Wisconsin judge in a targeted killing Friday is dead. Officials say Douglas Uhde was declared brain-dead Saturday morning and was taken off life support Tuesday, CNN reports. The 56-year-old was found with what authorities say was apparently a self-inflicted gunshot wound in the New Lisbon home of former Juneau County Circuit Court Judge John Roemer, who sentenced Uhde to prison 17 years ago. Investigators say Uhde killed Roemer and had a list in his vehicle of other potential targets, including Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, per the AP. Our story from Sunday follows:

A former Wisconsin judge is dead, and authorities say he was murdered in a targeted killing carried out by a man whose case appeared before him in court. Former Juneau County Circuit Court Judge John Roemer, 68, was killed Friday in his New Lisbon home. NBC News reports a 911 call was made around 6:30am by a person who had fled the home and reported two shots being fired. CNN reports the Juneau County Special Tactics and Response Team made their way into home after 10am and found Roemer dead and suspect Douglas K. Uhde in the basement with an "apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound." He has been hospitalized in critical condition.

Uhde, 56, has a 20-year criminal history in the state. CNN reports he was found guilty of armed burglary and firearms charges in 2002, and his case took years to resolve; in 2005, it came before Roemer. Court records show Roemer sentenced Uhde to six years in state prison; Uhde had pleaded no contest to the charges. "The individual who is the suspect appears to have had other targets as well," said Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul. "It appears to be related to the judicial system."

A source tells ABC News the alleged gunman had a hit list of more than a dozen names, among them Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, and Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers. NBC cites law enforcement as saying the hit list was found in the process of transporting Uhde to the hospital. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel has this quote from Evers: "A judge from a rural county is targeted and murdered. It's abhorrent to our judiciary and to leadership in a state and a country. So yeah, it's a horrible situation. I grieve for him, I grieve for his family. And God ... we can do better than this in Wisconsin." (Read more targeted killing stories.)
(Newser)  A crewless robotic boat that had tried to retrace the 1620 sea voyage of the Mayflower has finally reached the shores of North Americathis time in Canada instead of the Massachusetts coast where its namesake landed more than 400 years ago. The sleek autonomous trimaran docked in Halifax, Nova Scotia, on Sunday, after more than five weeks crossing the Atlantic Ocean from England, according to tech company IBM, which helped build it. Piloted by artificial intelligence technology, the 50-foot Mayflower Autonomous Ship didn't have a captain, navigator or any humans on boardthough it might have helped to have a mechanic, the AP reports.

"The technology that makes up the autonomous system worked perfectly, flawlessly," said Rob High, an IBM computing executive involved in the project. "Mechanically, we did run into problems." Its first attempt at the trans-Atlantic crossing to Plymouth, Massachusetts, in June 2021 was beset by technical glitches, forcing the boat to return to its home port of Plymouth, England. It set off again from England nearly a year later on April 27, bound for Virginiabut a generator problem diverted it to Portugal's Azores islands, where a team member flew in to perform emergency repairs. More troubles on the open sea came in late May when the US-bound boat developed a problem with the charging circuit for the generator's starter batteries.

AI software is getting better at helping self-driving machines understand their surroundings and pilot themselves, but most robots can't heal themselves when the hardware goes awry. Nonprofit marine research organization ProMare, which worked with IBM to build the ship, switched to a backup navigation computer on May 30 and charted a course to Halifax which was closer than any US destination. The boat's webcam on Sunday morning showed it being towed by a larger boat as the Halifax skyline neareda safety requirement under international maritime rules, IBM said.

(Read more artificial intelligence stories.)
(Newser)  On the final day of the Platinum Jubilee events in her honor, Queen Elizabeth put the crowning touch on the celebration by appearing on the Buckingham Palace balcony. Thousands of subjects gathered along the Mall roared as she stepped into view with her heirs and family members, CNN reports. The 97-year-old British monarch had not attended events on Friday and Saturday, and the palace had not announced that she'd be seen Sunday. The family sang along while the Band of the Royal Marines played the national anthem. After a group wave, Elizabeth turned to go back into the palace as the cast of Mamma Mia! launched into "Dancing Queen."

The three-minute appearance was just the third time the queen, who has said she has problems getting around, was seen publicly during the four days of events, per the AP. In a statement, Elizabeth said she was touched that so many people filled the streets to mark her Platinum Jubilee. "While I may not have attended every event in person, my heart has been with you all; and I remain committed to serving you to the best of my ability, supported by my family," she said.

A military parade on Sunday included 2,750 soldiers from the UK armed forces and personnel from the commonwealth. In a "River of Hope" procession, students from throughout the UK carried silk flags with artwork showing children's aspirations for the planet for the next 70 years, per People. Dancers, street performers, and music depicted each decade of the queen's reign. Prince Harry; his wife, Meghan Markle; and Prince Andrew were not spotted at the events Sunday. The cost of the royal pageant was estimated at $18 million. "There is no guidebook" for planning a celebration of 70 years on the throne, the queen's statement said. "It really is a first." (Read more Queen Elizabeth II stories.)
(Newser)  NATO kicked off nearly a two-week, US-led naval exercise on the Baltic Sea on Sunday with more than 7,000 sailors, airmen, and marines from 16 nations, including two aspiring to join the military alliance, Finland and Sweden. The annual BALTOPS naval exercise, initiated in 1972, is not held in response to any specific threat, the AP reports. But the military alliance said that "with both Sweden and Finland participating, NATO is seizing the chance in an unpredictable world to enhance its joint force resilience and strength" together with the two Nordic aspirant nations.

Finland and Sweden both had a long history of military nonalignment before their governments decided to apply to join NATO in May, a direct result of Russia's Feb. 24 invasion of Ukraine. Over the past years, Moscow has repeatedly warned Helsinki and Stockholm against joining the Western military alliance and threatened retaliatory measures if they did. Ahead of the naval drill, which involved 45 vessels and 75 aircraft, the top US military official said in Swedenhost of the BALTOPS 22 exercisethat it was particularly important for NATO to show support to the governments in Helsinki and Stockholm.

"It is important for us, the United States, and the other NATO countries to show solidarity with both Finland and Sweden in this exercise," Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, said Saturday during a news conference aboard the amphibious warship USS Kearsarge, which was moored in central Stockholm. Speaking with Swedish Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson, Milley stressed that the Baltic Sea is a strategically important body of water. The US has never before moved such a large warship as the 843-foot USS Kearsarge in the Swedish capital, where it sailed through narrow passages in the Stockholm archipelago, Milley said. BALTOPS 22 is scheduled to conclude in the German port of Kiel on June 17.

(Read more NATO stories.)
Since the late 1970s, the University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute has provided this column free in cooperation with the UAF research community. Ned Rozell is a science writer for the Geophysical Institute.
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TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

This year Bahrain recorded a significant and successful presence in the Arabian Travel Market 2022 exhibition in Dubai, through Bahraini national pavilion, announced through the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibition Authority (BTEA). The pavilion which was one of the largest of its kind among the 158 pavilions that took part in this international tourism event, which wrapped up on Thursday.

The pavilion had 21 exhibitors, led by national air carrier Gulf Air, as well as several of the most well-known Bahraini tourist facilities, including hotels, resorts, tourism companies, and tour operators.

Mrs. Fatima Al Serafi, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of BTEA, expressed her pride in Bahrain's successful participation in the Arabian Travel Market 2022, which was the result of all participants' harmonized efforts to bring Bahrain's tourism sector to the world's attention and to showcase its privileges relying on civilization, diversity, heritage, and modernity.

ATM 2022 provided an excellent opportunity to strengthen relationships with tourism sector partners in the region and around the world, as well as to form new partnerships, with the goal of attracting more tourists and visitors to Bahrain, along with supporting the tourism sector's recovery plans following the challenges of the previous two years, and discovering new opportunities for success and growth, according to Mrs. Al Serafi.

Several high-level meetings were held during the exhibition by the Bahraini delegation, led by Mrs. Al Serafi, including those with the CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority, Mr. Fahd Hamidaddin, Mr. Issam Kazim, CEO, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, and Mr. Azzan bin Qassim bin Mohammed Al-Busaidi, the Undersecretary for Tourism at Oman's Ministry of Heritage and Tourism. Joint visions and action plans for promoting tourism in the region were agreed upon during these meetings.

Meetings were also conducted with several tour companies who have signed cooperation agreements with BTEA. Strategies to activate promotional campaigns in several regions this summer were addressed at these meetings, with plans to launch these campaigns in markets such as Spain, Italy, India, Israel, and Russia in the next month.

The Bahraini tourism facilities in the pavilion also had successful work sessions with their regional and international counterparts, where they discussed joint cooperation in boosting business and attracting more visitors to Bahrain. Mrs. Al-Serafy also spoke on a panel discussion entitled "Building a Sustainable Business Itinerary," which examined BTEA's initiatives in the field of sustainable tourism.

Ms. Maryam Toorani, BTEAs Director of Marketing and Promotions, also highlighted Bahrain's accomplishments in the field of tourism gender equality at a panel discussion entitled "Enhancing women's presence in the tourism business". Its noteworthy that the Bahraini pavilion attracted over 20,000 visitors this year. During the four-day exhibition, opportunities for cooperation and partnership between the participating Bahraini entities and nearly 1,500 participating companies were reviewed.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Hiring activity in Bahrain has been on the upswing, with Bahrain recording strong growth in the first quarter of this year, thanks to the Economic Recovery Plan.

According to Jameel Humaidan, the Minister of Labour and Social Development, the multi-year plan, designed to support the post-COVID 19 recoveries and boost the long-term competitiveness of the Bahraini economy, contributed considerably to enhancing the economic and commercial movement in Bahrain.

The five-pillar plan aligns with Economic Vision 2030 and the intention to achieve net-zero carbon by 2060.

A key part of the plan aims to create 20,000 Bahraini jobs and train 10,000 Bahraini annually until 2024.

The minister also assured that the labour market would witness increased growth in quality job opportunities in the coming period.

Humaidan, who also works as the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, confirmed that vital sectors in Bahrain have recorded growth leading to an increase in the hiring activity.

In the first quarter of 2022, there were 707,597 employees, both in the public and private sectors, a 2.1% increase compared to the year-ago quarter, said the minister in a statement during a Cabinet review of the key labour market indicators.

Breaking down the figures further, the minister said the percentage of national workers in the public sector grew by 2.3% to 49,093, and in the private sector rose by 4.6% to 110,607 in the first quarter.

The minister attributed the increase in the percentage of national employment in the public and private sectors to the governments policy of developing employment mechanisms and launching qualitative initiatives to attract citizens to various establishments operating in the private sector.

As a result, the percentage of citizens working in this sector reached 69%, the minister said, adding that the percentage of citizens working in the private sector reflects the strength and durability of the labour market.

This also contributes to attracting more foreign investments, thanks to the increased number of trained and qualified Bahrainis capable of managing production in various sectors.

This is particularly important considering the growth in vital sectors, including telecommunications, technology and financial sectors, which create more quality job opportunities for citizens, the minister stressed.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Staff Reporter

Thanking Bahrains leadership, Pujya Swami Brahmavihari Das, International Coordinator of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, urged Indian expatriates here to contribute to Bahrains development goals.

Speaking to The Daily Tribune, on the sidelines of the event held at Swaminarayan Sanstha Mandir in Manama on Friday, Swami Brahmavihari Das thanked Bahrains people on behalf of all Indians.

We will create a beautiful temple of harmony and oneness. I believe we are one and the world is one. Bahrain has always been very close to our heart.

In 1997, His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, came here and met Amir HH Shaikh Isa, who asked Swamiji where he was staying permanently?

Pramukh Swami Maharaj was surprised as he would never think of a permanent home after visiting nearly 17,000 villages and cities across the world.

We, Sadhus move from place to place, heart to heart and people to people and there is no permanent home. As Swamiji answered, His Highness Shaikh Isa asked him to make Bahrain the permanent home.

We were instantly permitted to start this cultural mandir. His Majesty and HRH the Crown Prince also uphold the open-hearted leadership of HH Shaikh Isa. And thus this land is blessed with this great leadership.

Swami Brahmavihari Das also said that Royal Leadership offers a great signal to the rest of the world that Bahrain is open-hearted.

He also emphasized the need for heart-to-heart relations among all people.
North Korea fired eight short-range ballistic missiles towards the sea off its east coast on Sunday, June 5, a day after South Korea and the United States wrapped up their first combined military exercises involving an American aircraft carrier in more than four years.

The missiles were fired from the Sunan area of the North Korean capital Pyongyang, South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff said.

Japans Kyodo news agency, citing a government source, also said the North had launched multiple missiles.

The launch also followed a visit to Seoul by the US point man on North Korean affairs, US Special Representative Sung Kim, who departed on Saturday.

He met his South Korean and Japanese counterparts, Kim Gunn and Takehiro Funakoshi, on Friday to prepare for all contingencies amid signs North Korea was preparing to conduct a nuclear test for the first time since 2017.

Washington has made very clear directly to Pyongyang that it is open to diplomacy, Kim said during the visit, which wrapped up on Sunday, noting that he was willing to discuss items of interest to Pyongyang, such as sanctions relief. ...continue reading
The anime KAKEGURUI TWIN is a spin-off series focusing on the protagonist Mary Saotome, and is based on the popular manga serialized in Gangan Joker, which also runs the main story.

Set one year before the arrival of Yumeko Jabami at Hyakkao Private Academy, a normal, everyday girl named Mary Saotome transfers to the school. But how does this regular schoolgirl transform into a compulsive gambler? Jun 05 (Netflix Japan) - JOKER ... continue reading

Japanese Director Naomi Kawase Accused of Violence Towards Staff

yahoo.com - Jun 08

Japanese auteur and Cannes favorite Naomi Kawase has been accused of violent behavior towards her staff and crew, including an assault that left an employees face swollen. Japanese auteur and Cannes favorite Naomi Kawase has been accused of violent behavior towards her staff and crew, including an assault that left an employees face swollen.

Sony's former chairman, Nobuyuki Idei, dies at 84

Nikkei - Jun 07

Nobuyuki Idei, former chairman and group CEO of Sony Group, has died of liver failure at age 84, the company announced Tuesday. Nobuyuki Idei, former chairman and group CEO of Sony Group, has died of liver failure at age 84, the company announced Tuesday.

Masks and chaperones: Japan's new rules for foreign tour groups

Nikkei - Jun 07

Japan is opening up to overseas tour groups from Friday, but under strict conditions: visitors must wear masks, buy insurance and be accompanied by a tour guide "from entry to departure." Japan is opening up to overseas tour groups from Friday, but under strict conditions: visitors must wear masks, buy insurance and be accompanied by a tour guide "from entry to departure."

Japanese bedroom guitarist Ichika Nito finally plays in front of an audience in the U.S.

Ichika Nito / Wikitubia - Jun 07

Ichika Nito (born: July 7, 1994 [age 27]), is a Japanese musician and record producer. He has made many songs and albums, but got most of his popularity through YouTube. Ichika Nito (born: July 7, 1994 [age 27]), is a Japanese musician and record producer. He has made many songs and albums, but got most of his popularity through YouTube.

23-year-old woman arrested for abandoning infants body inside suitcase hidden in closet

Japan Today - Jun 07

Police in Hino City, Tokyo, have arrested a 23-year-old woman on suspicion of corpse abandonment after the body of a newborn boy was found inside a suitcase hidden in a closet. Police in Hino City, Tokyo, have arrested a 23-year-old woman on suspicion of corpse abandonment after the body of a newborn boy was found inside a suitcase hidden in a closet.

Japanese male hosts have changed their styling to look more like K-pop idols

allkpop.com - Jun 07

One of the famous subcultures that are prevalent in Japan is male host entertainment. "Hosuto Kurabu," or the male host club, are nightclubs in Japan that provide male entertainment and companionship to women at these nightclubs. One of the famous subcultures that are prevalent in Japan is male host entertainment. "Hosuto Kurabu," or the male host club, are nightclubs in Japan that provide male entertainment and companionship to women at these nightclubs.

Sri Lankan man dies in Ibaraki Pref. in suspected homicide

NHK - Jun 07

Police in Ibaraki Prefecture, northeast of Tokyo, are investigating the death of a 45-year-old Sri Lankan man as a possible case of homicide. Police in Ibaraki Prefecture, northeast of Tokyo, are investigating the death of a 45-year-old Sri Lankan man as a possible case of homicide.

Man gets 18-year prison term for 2017 expressway road rage deaths

Japan Today - Jun 07

A Japanese court on Monday sentenced a 30-year-old man to a prison term of 18 years in a retrial over a 2017 road rage incident that resulted in the deaths of a couple and injuries to their two daughters. A Japanese court on Monday sentenced a 30-year-old man to a prison term of 18 years in a retrial over a 2017 road rage incident that resulted in the deaths of a couple and injuries to their two daughters.

Japan government to shift vocational training focus to digital skills

Nikkei - Jun 07

Japan will shift the focus of its public vocational training programs to fields with growth potential, focusing on the digital realm and decarbonization efforts, in an attempt to enhance productivity, Nikkei has learned. Japan will shift the focus of its public vocational training programs to fields with growth potential, focusing on the digital realm and decarbonization efforts, in an attempt to enhance productivity, Nikkei has learned.



newsonjapan.com - Jun 07

   

CBD Oil for Full-Body Health: Proven Benefits of CBD Oil

newsonjapan.com - Jun 07

Cannabidiol, abbreviated CBD, is a phytocannabinoid discovered in the mid-1900s. It is one of the 113 cannabinoids identified in the cannabis Sativa plant. CBD accounts for over 30% of the plant. Cannabidiol, abbreviated CBD, is a phytocannabinoid discovered in the mid-1900s. It is one of the 113 cannabinoids identified in the cannabis Sativa plant. CBD accounts for over 30% of the plant.
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is planning to attend a summit of leaders from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), news agency Reuters reported citing sources familiar with the matter said.

The summit is scheduled for late June in Spain and if he attends, it will make him the first Japanese leader to take part in a NATO summit, a gathering of the Western alliance.

Kishida's attendance at the June 29 to 30 event in Madrid is dependent on the domestic political situation leading up to a House of Councillors election likely to be held July 10, the sources said.

A report by Kyodo News mentioned citing sources that the scenario of Kishida's attendance at the event in Madrid is dependent on the House of Councillors election, which is likely to happen on July 10. The NATO summit will be held from June 29 to 30.

Kishida's decision regarding the summit will be finalised after the country's domestic political situation is sorted. However, the Japan-based news agency reported that a government spokesman said officials would be unable to comment on the matter. ...continue reading
BROOKFIELD  The Board of Education has reestablished a security task force in the wake of the recent mass shooting at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas.

Its time to just have a renewed focus on security to make sure our plans our solid so that nothing like that ever happens in Brookfield, Chair Bob Belden said on Wednesday, when the board voted to bring back the task force that had been dissolved in July 2020. That has got to be the objective. It has happened too close to home, a number of years ago in Sandy Hook, and its happened again

With unanimous approval, the board voted to form the task force whose members will consist of Belden and fellow board members Rosa Fernandes and Sharon Butow. Their focus will be to review security protocols and build on the work done by the previously established task force, and to do so expediently, Belden added.

I dont want this to be dragging off where two years from now we are coming out of a committee, he said.

In the end we are responsible with what happens in these schools, and I dont want to be that guy where something happens in these schools and I am sure there are others in town who feel the exact same way.

Ahead of the vote to establish the security review body, Superintendent John Barile noted work is already being done in the short-term to emphasize safety of students at all schools in the district.

In terms of security, it is very important we recognize the school district stands in solidarity, of course, with Uvalde, Texas and everything that happened in the tragedy last week. Security is on everybodys mind; security is all of our responsibility, Barile said.

In the days following the tragedy in Uvalde, which claimed the lives 19 students between the ages of 9 and 11 and two teachers, he said in an email on Friday that Brookfield police, provided enhanced security in the form of an additional officer/cruiser at each school.

The police department continues to provide enhanced presence in the district but due to the nature of security and the impact on the safety of students and staff, it wouldn't be prudent to share any more information, the superintendent added.

Speaking to board members earlier this week, Barile explained how the school district was coordinating with the Connecticut Center for School Safety and the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management Services, adding specific work is being done on a threat assessment module.

The districts information technology director and the towns Youth Commission is also working to roll-out the use of the Say Something application, which is used by communities for communicating messages between students, parents, and educators with 24/7 monitoring of emergencies, anonymous reporting, etc., Barile said.

The application is offered through Sandy Hook Promise, a national non-profit organization based in Newtown and founded and led by family members of those who lost loved ones at Sandy Hook Elementary School on Dec. 14, 2012.

According to the foundations website, the organizations intent is to honor all victims of gun violence by turning our tragedy into a moment of transformation. By empowering youth to know the signs and uniting all people who value the protection of children, we can take meaningful actions in schools, homes, and communities to prevent gun violence and stop the tragic loss of life.
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During the past two years, pandemic-sparked job losses and rocketing inflation have inflicted unrelenting pressure on the personal finances of many millions of Americans.

There has been decidedly less strain on the bank accounts of the chief executive officers of the largest corporations.

Total compensation for chief executives who lead companies in the S&P 500 index jumped 17 percent last year to a median of $14.5 million, according to a new analysis conducted by corporate-leadership data provider Equilar for The Associated Press. Nine of the CEOs included in the study lead Connecticut-headquartered companies  with the compensation in that group ranging from about $13 million to nearly $42 million from components including salary, bonuses, stock grants and stock options.

Chief executives growing compensation reflects robust financial results across corporate America, while companies assert that their top officials have to meet stringent performance criteria to earn maximum payouts. But the pay of corporate giants leaders massively exceeds the earnings of their firms rank-and-file workers  a disparity that has intensified in recent years and drawn growing attention from elected officials and shareholders.

Executive compensation is important from a corporate-governance point of view, Justin Klein, director of the University of Delawares Weinberg Center for Corporate Governance, said in an interview. And when shareholders cast say on pay votes, theyre important because its a way for them to speak to companies boards and compensation committees.

Eight-figure compensation for highest-paid Connecticut CEOs

In 2021, CEO compensation escalated as stock prices and profits rebounded strongly as part of the U.S. economys comeback from the brief 2020 recession. Since a large part of chief executives compensation  which is determined by their companies boards of directors  is based on their firms performance, their pay packages burgeoned after years of more moderate growth.

Spectrum-brand internet, phone and cable provider Charter Communications Tom Rutledge exemplified this trend, as the highest-paid CEO of a Connecticut-headquartered S&P 500 company and ninth-highest-paid among all the surveyed S&P 500 chief executives in 2021. The CEO and chairman of the Stamford-based companys nearly $42 million in compensation included about $30 million in option awards, which reflect the aggregate grant date fair value, Charter said in a filing to the Securities and Exchange Commission. He received a base salary of $2.5 million, supplemented by a performance-based cash bonus of $8.9 million.

Rutledges compensation last year equated to an 8 percent increase from his 2020 total of nearly $39 million. His remuneration in 2020 included approximately $30 million in option awards.

Oftentimes, CEOs cannot cash in on stock or options for years, or possibly ever, unless their companies meet performance goals. Companies, however, still have to disclose estimates for the worth of those stock and options.

In response to an inquiry from Hearst Connecticut Media, Charter officials declined to comment on Rutledges compensation. In a SEC filing this year, the company said it, structures its NEO (named executive officers) compensation packages to provide a total opportunity that is competitive against the median of Charters peer group, create a strong linkage between the actual compensation earned by our NEOs and company performance and reward both growth-oriented annual operating results as well as sustainable long-term shareholder returns.

Under the leadership of Rutledge, who has served as CEO since 2012, Charter last year produced revenues of nearly $52 billion, up 7.5 percent from 2020. It posted an annual profit of approximately $4.7 billion. At the end of 2021, Charter counted about 32 million customer relationships, up by nearly 1 million from the end of 2020.

After Rutledge, Norwalk-based travel-services provider Booking Holdings Glenn Fogel was the highest-paid among Connecticut-based S&P 500 companies chief executives, with 2021 compensation of nearly $30 million. His total included nearly $24 million in stock awards, a performance-based cash bonus of about $5.2 million and a base salary of $750,000.

At No. 3 among Connecticut S&P 500 CEOs, Bloomfield-based health insurer Cignas David Cordani made nearly $20 million, including nearly $12 million in stock awards, about $3.6 million in option awards. a performance-based cash bonus of around $2.7 million and a base salary of $1.5 million.

Next came property-and-casualty insurer The Hartfords Christopher Swift whose remuneration amounted to nearly $16 million. Compensation totaled around $14 million for Stamford-based research and consulting firm Gartners Eugene Hall, about $14 million for Greenwich-based property-and-casualty insurer W.R. Berkleys W. Robert Berkley Jr., approximately $13 million for Wallingford-based electronics manufacturer Amphenols R. Adam Norwitt, about $13 million for New Britain-based toolmaker Stanley Black & Deckers James Loree and nearly $13 million for Stamford-based equipment-rental firm United Rentals Matthew Flannery.

The Hartfords compensation program is designed to align pay and performance, The Hartford said in a statement, in response to questions about Swifts compensation. Our senior executives compensation in 2021 reflects both the successful execution of our strategy to maximize value creation for all stakeholders, as well as the companys excellent financial results compared with 2020.

The Hartford added that, for every role at the company, from the CEO to the front-line workers, we continually evaluate job data and economic factors to ensure we are providing competitive compensation in line with comparable positions in the marketplace.

Messages left this week for Amphenol, Booking, Cigna, Gartner, Stanley Black & Decker, United Rentals and W.R. Berkley were not returned.

The highest-paid S&P 500 CEO last year was Expedia Groups Peter Kern whose compensation totaled about $296 million. At No. 2 was Warner Bros. Discoverys David Zaslav whose remuneration amounted to nearly $247 million.

Growing attention to pay disparities

The gap between CEO compensation and rank-and-file workers pay is not only gaping, but also growing.

Compared with the 17 percent median increase in CEO compensation last year, private-sector workers wages and benefits increased by about 4 percent in 2021  the fastest rise on record since 2001. But the raises for many rank-and-file workers not only lagged the growth in CEO pay, but also failed to keep up with inflation, which reached 7 percent at the end of last year.

At half the firms in this years compensation survey, it would take the worker in the middle of the companys pay scale at least 186 years to make what their CEO did last year. A year earlier, it would have taken the median worker 166 years to earn their CEOs annual compensation.

Rutledges 2021 compensation amounted to nearly 700 times his companys median worker pay of about $60,000, despite the Charter median increasing 6 percent from 2020, according to the data compiled by Equilar. Including a Stamford-based contingent of about 1,700, Charter operates with more than 93,000 employees  all of whom are based in the U.S. Most work in hourly, customer-facing roles.

Since 2016, when Charter merged with Time Warner Cable and Bright House Networks, Charter returned all offshore work to the U.S., and virtually all customer service calls are handled by in-house employees to best serve our customers, Charter said in a statement. Charter offers a $20 minimum starting wage, employees receive comprehensive health benefits, and for nine consecutive years, Charter has absorbed the full annual cost increase of medical, dental and vision coverage.

Other Charter employee benefits include a 401(k) plan that matches the first 6 percent of employee contributions.

Progressive elected officials such as Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vermont, and Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Massachusetts have frequently expressed misgivings about CEO compensation levels. Among their proposals, Sanders, Warren and several other Democratic lawmakers re-introduced legislation in March 2021 that would increase taxes on companies that pay their CEOs more than 50 times the pay of a median worker.

Corporate executives have padded their pockets with hefty paychecks and over-the-top compensation packages, while American workers, who helped generate record corporate profits, have hardly seen their wages budge, Warren said in a statement at the time. We need to take dramatic steps to address wealth inequality in this country, and discouraging massive executive payouts is a good place to start.

Many shareholders are also focusing on executive compensation, as seen in say on pay proposals that let them cast advisory votes. Among companies annual meetings held in recent weeks, shareholders of Amphenol, Cigna, The Hartford, Stanley Black & Decker and United Rentals have approved the compensation of top executives. There was not a say on pay question on the ballot at Charters April 26 annual meeting.

These votes are not only a say on pay, but they also seem to be a say on how shareholders feel about the ratio between the highest-paid executives and the middle of the pack, Klein said.

At the same time, companies have to take into account the extent to which rank-and-file workers perceive executive compensation as a reflection of company culture.

If the culture and tone that a CEO sets is correct, then I dont think that (their pay) would be much of a factor to employees, Eric Cormier, a manager of HR services at Insperity, a provider of HR and business-performance services, said in an interview. But if its a toxic place to work and the leadership is perceived as not creating a great culture or making it a great place to work, then I believe their compensation would come into it as, Theyre not running a great organization, but they get paid all this money?

This article contains reporting from The Associated Press.

pschott@stamfordadvocate.com; twitter: @paulschott
EDMONTON, AB, June 4, 2022 /CNW/ - Work is underway for the repair and renovation of 420 rental homes for seniors in Edmonton.

Today, the Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance and the Member of Parliament for Edmonton Centre, on behalf of the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion, announced $12.3 million of funding at a celebration of Matheson Senior Residence's 50th anniversary, which will provide seniors a safe place to call home. These units are designed to be accessible, and will allow for independent living as seniors age in place.

Located at 11445-135 St NW, the Matheson Seniors Residence will be able to complete repairs to resident's balconies, install a new fire alarm system and a replacement of the building's plumbing system.

This investment was made possible by the Government of Canada's National Housing Co-Investment Fund (NHCF).

Quotes:

"Every Canadian deserves a safe and affordable place to call home. Today's announcement of funding will uplift and renew 420 homes for seniors in Edmonton, allowing them to live comfortably while their homes remain safe and accessible for decades to come. We will continue to work with our partners to make sure seniors across Canada have the housing they need and deserve."  The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion

"Homelessness is a reality for too many people in Edmonton and we are working to ensure everyone in our community has a safe and affordable place to call home. On this 50th anniversary of the Matheson Seniors Residence, we can celebrate the great work of housing providers like Matheson and the good they do in keeping our communities healthy and empowering for seniors."  The Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance

"Seniors already have so much to worry about, whether it is paying bills, filling their prescriptions, or staying safe throughout the pandemic. The last thing they need is to feel unsafe in their own home. Today's announcement is an example of how our government has invested across the housing spectrum to support those who are in the most need of a place to call home. All seniors deserve the opportunity to age in place with dignity."  The Honourable Kamal Khera, Minister of Seniors

"Matheson Seniors Housing has been providing affordable housing to seniors for 50 years; through the investment by the National Housing Strategy's Co-investment fund we plan to provide this housing to those in need for another 50 years."  Rob Appleyard, Executive Director, Matheson Seniors Housing Crop.

Quick Facts:

The National Housing Co-Investment Fund (NHCF) is a program under the National Housing Strategy (NHS) prioritizes affordable housing projects that help people who need it most, including women and children fleeing family violence, seniors, Indigenous peoples, people with disabilities, those dealing with mental health or addiction issues, veterans, and young adults, newcomers and those experiencing homelessness.

is a program under the National Housing Strategy (NHS) prioritizes affordable housing projects that help people who need it most, including women and children fleeing family violence, seniors, Indigenous peoples, people with disabilities, those dealing with mental health or addiction issues, veterans, and young adults, newcomers and those experiencing homelessness. With a budget of $13 .2 billion over 10 years, the NHCF plans to:

.2 billion over 10 years, the NHCF plans to: Create 60,000 new housing units and repair or renew 240,000 units of existing affordable and community housing units



Create or repair at least 4,000 shelter spaces



Create at least 7,000 new affordable units for seniors



Create at least 2,400 new affordable units for people with developmental disabilities

Budget 2022 proposes to advance $2.9 billion in funding, on a cash basis, under the NHCF to accelerate the creation of up to 4,300 new units and the repair of up to 17,800 units.

in funding, on a cash basis, under the NHCF to accelerate the creation of up to 4,300 new units and the repair of up to 17,800 units. The Government of Canada's NHS is an ambitious, 10-year plan that will invest over $72 billion to give more Canadians a place to call home.

Learn More:

As Canada's authority on housing, CMHC contributes to the stability of the housing market and financial system, provides support for Canadians in housing need, and offers unbiased housing research and advice to all levels of Canadian government, consumers and the housing industry. For more information, please visit: https://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/.

authority on housing, CMHC contributes to the stability of the housing market and financial system, provides support for Canadians in housing need, and offers unbiased housing research and advice to all levels of Canadian government, consumers and the housing industry. For more information, please visit: https://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/. To find out more about the National Housing Strategy, visit: www.placetocallhome.ca.

SOURCE Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation

For further information: Arevig Afarian , Office of the Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion , [email protected]; Media Relations, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, [email protected]
Posted by Liam on at 08:37 AM CST

Greetings,fans! This week on the site, were looking at the Lars homestead where Luke Skywalker grew up. A young Luke and his adopted uncle have been among the characters featured in the Disney+ series. Make sure to stay tuned throughout the week for more articles, insights, videos, and merchandising opportunities about this iconiclocation!One of the key inspirations behind the original trilogy was the classic westerns of John Ford. Fords iconic classicinspired the desert locations of Tatooine. In order to capture a realistic location, Lucas and the crew headed to Tunisia. It was a grueling shoot for all involved. However, Lucas returned to shoot Tatooine sequences forand. The Lars homestead was digitally recreated for the final moments ofOwen and Beru are moisture farmers who use their moisture vaporators to collect water in the arid environment. Lukes familial ties arent expressly revealed in; ironically, Owen Lars is referred to as Obi-Wan Kenobis brother in the original novelization ofcreated the backstory of Cliegg Lars, who frees and marries Anakins mother Shmi. Owen is only briefly introduced to Anakin, but doesnt take a liking to him. This tension with the Jedi Order continues throughout the events ofRey finally returns to the birthplace of the Skywalker lineage in. Despite learning that she is the descendant of Emperor Palpatine, Rey takes on Lukes last name to reclaim herself. She buries Lukes original lightsaber outside of the homestead as Luke and Leia's Force ghosts watch on.Since the release of the original trilogy, the Tunisian set has become one of the most popular tourist destinations for avidfans who have the ability to travel overseas. Fans have traveled to Ksour, Matmata, Nefta, and Ong Jemal. Futuredirector Gareth Edwards visited the original set on athemed fan trip. Ever since Lucas shot the original sequences in 1976, many other Hollywood productions have returned to these Tunisian locations. Films like, andall utilized similar vistas.The Lars homestead has inspired some of the coolestmerchandising items of all-time. A limited edition Disturbance at Lars Homestead playset was included within The Legacy Collection line in 2008, as a Toys R Us exclusive. LEGO unveiled the Lars Homestead diorama in 2021, and added an exclusive Aunt Berus Kitchen set in 2022.What do you think,fans? Have you ever trekked out to Tunisia? Have you managed to get your hands on one of the Legacy Collection sets? Let us know in the forums , and as always, may the Force be with you!Check out Rebelscum.com merch!Be sure to follow us on all of our social media platforms:
Abu Dhabi Health Services Company is Deploying the CognICA Brain Health Screening Technology as part of Pioneering Approach to Tackling Impending Brain Health Crisis Across the Region

VANCOUVER, BC, June 2, 2022 /CNW/ - Cognetivity Neurosciences Ltd. ("Cognetivity" or the "Company") (CSE: CGN) (OTCQB: CGNSF) (FRA: 1UB), a technology company that has created a unique brain health screening platform for use in medical, commercial and consumer environments, today announced that it has signed an agreement (the "Agreement") with Abu Dhabi Health Services Company ("SEHA"), the largest healthcare network in the United Arab Emirates ("UAE"), for the Company's CognICA cognitive assessment platform ("CognICA) to be deployed in a pilot program as a screening tool for cognitive impairment in its national network of clinics and hospitals.

SEHA is an independent public company that owns and operates all public hospitals and clinics across Abu Dhabi. It is the largest healthcare network in the UAE, consisting of 13 hospitals with 2,644 beds and 36 primary healthcare clinics, in addition to 24 additional supporting facilities and specialized clinics. SEHA accommodates 100,000 inpatients and more than five million outpatient visits annually. It is highly regarded as a visionary information technology organization, having been a pioneer in the UAE in embarking on digital transformation, as well as an early recipient of the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society ("HIMSS") Electronic Medical Record Adoption Model ("EMRAM") Stage 6 certification.

At the heart of the Agreement between SEHA and Cognetivity lies CognICA  the Company's flagship medical device, powered by its medical device technology. A CE-marked and FDA-cleared medical device in the United States, CognICA has recently been registered with the UAE Ministry of Health and cleared for medical use across the region. Under the terms of the new agreement, CognICA will be deployed in SEHA-run clinics as a screening tool for measuring patients' brain health and streamlining the detection of cognitive impairment.

This deployment is the first step towards large-scale roll out aimed at enhancing the timely diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment ("MCI") and dementia. Dementia is a serious and growing healthcare problem all over the world, with more than 55 million people currently living with the condition, but it poses a particular challenge to the UAE. A study published this year in The Lancet Public Health forecasts that the UAE will experience the second-highest percentage increase worldwide in the number of people living with dementia by 2050.

The decision by SEHA to deploy Cognetivity's cutting-edge, AI-powered technology to tackle the growing problem of dementia is characteristic of the country's innovative and technology-led approach to achieving excellence in public healthcare. The country is known for being ambitious and proactive in pursuing its goal of developing a world-leading healthcare system: the speed and high uptake of its COVID-19 vaccination program drew international attention last year, while 2021 also saw the UAE become the second country in the world (raking only behind the United States) to approve the novel Alzheimer's drug Aduhelm for clinical treatment.

The CognICA is perfectly suited to the task of population-wide screening in the UAE. It is a short and simple but sensitive test, delivered on a tablet, that can be taken by a patient remotely or in person without the need for administration by a specialist. This means that large-scale rollout of CognICAcan be achieved very rapidly and does not need to be limited to specialist clinics. Owing to its absence of learning effect and capacity to integrate with electronic health record systems, CognICA provides an end-to-end cognitive testing solution that can be applied throughout the patient pathway to greatly improve the efficiency of diagnosis and treatment.

Dr. Sina Habibi, Cognetivity's CEO, said: "We're hugely excited about this latest deployment of our CognICA technology and thrilled to confirm another major deal in the Middle East. To tackle the enormous global problem of brain health, including dementia, we have to massively improve the detection of early-stage impairment on a large scale, making brain health testing as routine as blood pressure monitoring. CognICA is the perfect tool in every way for this job and this latest implementation further demonstrates the value that our technology adds to progressive healthcare systems."

"SEHA's visionary approach to healthcare technology makes it a fantastic organization to work with on the rollout of CognICA. It fully appreciates the vital role that cutting-edge medical technology can have in improving healthcare outcomes. SEHA's vision for the future of healthcare in the region is an inspirational one and the organization is leading the way in providing world-class healthcare services to the people of the UAE. Given the capabilities and reliability of our CognICATM technology, we are very confident that this deployment will be a great success for SEHA, for the people of the UAE and for Cognetivity," added Dr. Habibi.

About Cognetivity Neurosciences Ltd.

Cognetivity is a technology company that has created a cognitive testing platform for use in medical, commercial and consumer environments. Cognetivity's CognICATM uses Artificial Intelligence and machine learning techniques to help detect the earliest signs of cognitive impairment by testing the performance of large areas of the brain. The CognICATM is currently available for clinical use in the USA, UK and Europe, with regulatory approval for other regions planned for 2022.

For more information, please visit: www.cognetivity.com or contact: [email protected]



ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

"Sina Habibi"

Sina Habibi

Chief Executive Officer and Director

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS:

Certain statements included in this news release constitute forward-looking information or statements (collectively, "forward-looking statements"), including those identified by the expressions "anticipate", "assume" "believe", "plan", "estimate", "expect", "intend", "may", "should" and similar expressions to the extent they relate to the Company or its management. The forward-looking statements are not historical facts but reflect current expectations regarding future results or events. This news release contains forward looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions which are difficult to predict. Such statements are based on current expectations and various estimates, factors and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors. Such statements and information are based on numerous assumptions regarding present and future business strategies and the environment in which the Company will operate in the future. The Company assumes no responsibility to update or revise forward-looking information to reflect new events or circumstances unless required by law. Readers should not place undue reliance on the Company's forward-looking statements.

The Canadian Securities Exchange does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE Cognetivity Neurosciences Ltd

For further information: For media enquiries, please contact: Josh Stanbury, [email protected], 416-628-7441
OTTAWA, ON, June 5, 2022 /CNW/ - As governor general and commander-in-chief, I would like to congratulate all those marking Canadian Armed Forces Day.

This has been a year of change and challenge for the members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). Together, you are facing hard truths and continue to address important issues facing the CAF. A CAF that does the hard work of making itself better. A CAF that welcomes diversity and equality within its ranks.

In addition, you were called upon to serve at home and overseas to help not only with conflict, such as the heartbreaking war in Ukraine, but also with climate disasters, forest fires and the ongoing pandemic.

Through it all, and despite the many challenges calling for your attention, you are there for our country. You continue to make us proud.

I've seen your work up close. During the past year, I've visited troops in Kuwait and Qatar; I've met with Canadian Rangers serving in the North and celebrated their 75th anniversary with them in Victoria. I have honoured members for meritorious service, for bravery and for their dedication to this nation. I've met with veterans and members from across the country and I have conveyed to them my pride in their actions. And each time I meet someone who has served our country, I ask them about their story. I ask them about how they take care of themselves, both in body and in mind.

As we mark Canadian Armed Forces Day, I would like to thank all of you who sacrifice so much for our country, including the families of those who have chosen to serve. Through your actions, you are building a better Canada and a better world.

Mary Simon

Stay connected:

Follow GovernorGeneralCanada on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.

SOURCE Governor General of Canada

For further information: Media information: Rideau Hall Press Office, 343-573-7563, [email protected]
Telangana Police apprehended the fourth suspect in the suspected gang-rape of a teenage girl in Hyderabad's Jubilee Hills last week on Sunday

Telangana Police apprehended the fourth suspect in the suspected gang-rape of a teenage girl in Hyderabads Jubilee Hills last week on Sunday.

Three of the four suspects apprehended are minors. Inspector S Rajashekhar Reddy of Jubilee Hills said, The fourth suspect in the case has been apprehended by police. Another suspect has been apprehended, bringing the total number of suspects arrested to four.

However, the fifth accused has yet to be apprehended.

Telangana Home Minister Mohammed Mahmood Ali has stated that no mercy will be shown in the gang-rape case in Hyderabad, while also underlining that the state police department works independently and does not spare the perpetrators.

Yesterday, the Telangana Home Minister stated that As a result of the complaint, action is taken. There will be no leniency. Telangana Police acts without fear of retaliation and does not spare criminals. Because there was a youngster involved, the arrest took some time, but our cops work diligently.

This happened after Telangana BJP head Bandi Sanjay wrote to Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao, demanding that the Hyderabad gang-rape case be turned over to the CBI and that all of the suspects be arrested.

On May 28, a 17-year-old girl was allegedly gang-raped while returning home from a party in Hyderabads Jubilee Hills neighbourhood. Later the father of the minor girl filed a police report.

Following the complaint, a case was filed under sections 354 and 323 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Section 9 read with 10 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses (POCSO) Act against the five accused.

The girl was allegedly seen standing with the suspected attackers outside the tavern where she had met them, according to security footage that has gone viral on social media. The lads had volunteered to drop her off at her house. Instead, she was molested in a public parking garage. Her assailants alternated rapping her while others stood guard outside the vehicle.
Jaishankar has retaliated against unfair criticism of India's oil purchases from Russia in the midst of the Ukraine conflict

S Jaishankar, Indias External Affairs Minister, has retaliated against unfair criticism of Indias oil purchases from Russia in the midst of the Ukraine conflict, which has had a knock-on effect on the global economy.

While defending Indias Russian oil imports, Jaishankar emphasized the importance of understanding how the Ukraine war affects developing countries. He also wondered why only India was being investigated when Europe continued to import Russian gas despite the Ukraine conflict.

In response to a query on whether Indias oil imports from Russia are fueling the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Jaishankar stated, I dont want to come out as a snob. If India is subsidizing Russias oil, then the conflict is being funded So youre saying that buying Russian gas isnt funding the war? Is it true that only Indian money and Russian oil flowing into India fund the war, while Russian gas flowing into Europe does not? Lets try to be a little more fair.

These remarks were given by Jaishankar at the GLOBSEC 2022 Bratislava Forum in Slovakia, which focused on Taking Friendship to the Next Level: Allies in the Indo-Pacific Region.

Jaishankar further stated that the European Unions sanctions packages are enforced with the interests of particular European nations in mind.

Europe is purchasing oil, Europe is buying gasa new package of sanctions has been crafted with the welfare of the public in mind, pipelines have carveoutsif you can be considerate to yourself, you can be considerate to others. If Europe declares that freedom should exist for other people as well, and that we must manage it in such a way that the impact on the economy is minimal he stated.

Jaishankar also discussed how the increase in Indian oil purchases is being marketed without taking into account the prior imports low base.

Look at the whole story, its gone up nine times, its gone up from a very low baseif countries in the West, Europe, and the United States are so concerned, why dont they allow Iranian oil to come to the market, why dont they allow Venezuelan oil to come to the market? EAM added.

India, according to Jaishankar, handled the COVID pandemic with caution and is now essentially out of COVID with a strong sense of economic recovery.

In response to a question on Indias position following the arduous and tumultuous COVID period, Jaishankar stated, COVID is essentially gone, but it never completely vanishes. However, we have emerged from COVID with a strong feeling of economic recovery. We handled it with caution and economy.

EAM also recounted how, under Prime Minister Narendra Modis leadership, the Indian government not only maintained the economy during the pandemic, but also leapfrogged in several areas, including digital reconstruction.

Indias External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is on a tour to Slovakia and the Czech Republic to further strengthen bilateral ties with the two Central European countries.
After the arrest of 18 accused involved in Kanpur violence, the Bareilly administration has now imposed a curfew under Section 144

After the arrest of 18 accused involved in Kanpur violence, the Bareilly administration has now imposed a curfew under Section 144 as a precautionary measure ahead of a massive rally planned for June 10 as declared by Muslim preacher Tauqir Raza.

A tense situation existed in Kanpur following an altercation between two groups from different ethnicities on Friday, apparently over a market stoppage. The conflicts resulted in the injuries of two people and one police officer.

In a statement on Saturday, Kanpur CP Vijay Singh Meena quoted, Some people attempted to jeopardise the communal situation in Kanpur. The police intervened, and the situation was brought under control. Yesterday, 18 people were arrested, and today, six people were arrested. There were three FIRs lodged. So far, 36 people have been identified.

Following the chaos, a curfew has been enforced till July 3 in order to avert a repeat of the unrest that erupted in Kanpur on Friday.

According to the administration, no more than five people can congregate in a public space. During this time, protests would also be outlawed.

On Saturday, Prashant Kumar, ADG (Law and Order), announced that the illegal properties of the suspects involved in the violence that erupted in Uttar Pradeshs Kanpur district would be demolished.

Earlier on Friday, a violent battle erupted between two groups from different clans in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, apparently over a market shutdown.

Between Yateem Khana and Parade crossroads in Kanpur, security was also ramped up, however, the situation has been taken under control by the police now.
Right-wing activists gathered at Kirangur Junction in the historic Srirangapatna town in Karnataka's Mandya district on Saturday to march to a mosque

Right-wing activists gathered at Kirangur Junction in the historic Srirangapatna town in Karnatakas Mandya district on Saturday to march to a mosque.

Officials said Mandya police prevented about 200 members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal from entering the Jama Masjid in Srirangapatna on Saturday as they congregated at the Kirangur intersection in the mediaeval Karnataka town for their planned march to the mosque.

The mosque, according to the groups, is built atop the remnants of a Hanuman temple. The members of the groups have stated that they will perform puja at the towns Jamia Masjid.

Meanwhile, Section 144 CrPC was imposed in the area for 12 hours on Saturday, in response to a right-wing organizations Srirangapatna Chalo appeal.

Deputy Commissioner of Police S Ashwathi said Over 500 police officers have been deployed, with four checkpoints set up. The weekly market has been rescheduled, and the sale of alcoholic beverages has been prohibited within a 5-kilometer radius of the location.

A special crew has been organized to keep the area secure and CCTV cameras have been installed. The road leading to the mosque was kept close, however, admission into the mosque is restricted.

N Yatish, Mandyas Superintendent of Police (SP), confirmed that The city is now absolutely calm, and it will remain so for the foreseeable future. Weve done all of the required preparations. Weve deployed our troops, met with commanders, and informed them of the impending prohibitory orders. They will be prosecuted if they commit any violations.

VHP on Saturday has announced that a march will be held in Srirangapatna, followed by prayers. Prohibitory orders have been issued in the region by the district administration.

The taluk administration has issued prohibitive orders, and rallies, processions, and protests are not permitted within the Srirangapatna town panchayat limits on Saturday. Weve placed enough bandobast in and around town to prevent any adverse incidents Mandya, SP, informed.

Right-wing groups filed a memorandum with the Deputy Commissioner of Mandya in May this year, requesting permission for Hindus to pray at the mosque, which they said stands over the remnants of a Hanuman temple.

The activists said the building was once a temple that had been turned to a mosque. They asked whether they may perform puja in the mosque.

According to the activists, Jamia Masjid was built on top of the Anjaneya Temple. They also argued that the mosque was Anjaneya Temple, based on historical evidence.
Amid Imran Khan assassinations' rumours, Pakistan's Islamabad police department announced on Saturday night that security agencies in the Bani Gala region of the city had been placed on high alert

In the wake of rumours that a conspiracy to assassinate former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan was being hatched, the Islamabad police department announced on Saturday night that security agencies in the Bani Gala region of the city had been placed on high alert.

Section 144 has already been implemented in Islamabad, and public meetings have been prohibited, according to an Islamabad police official.

In a tweet of Islamabad Police, it stated, In anticipation of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khans planned arrival in Bani Gala, a residential neighbourhood in Islamabad, security has been increased and a high alert has been issued. However, the Islamabad Police Department has yet to receive confirmation of Imran Khans teams return.

It further was stated In Bani Gala, the Security Division has deployed dedicated security. Police have yet to get a list of those in Bani Gala. In Islamabad, Section 144 has been enacted, and any congregation is prohibited by District Magistrate orders.

The Islamabad Police will give complete protection to Imran Khan in accordance with the law, and reciprocal cooperation from Imran Khans security personnel is also expected, the police said.

Hassaan Niazi, Imran Khans nephew, stated that any act against the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman will be considered an attack on Pakistan.

Hassaan Niazi, Imran Khans nephew, stated Whatever happens to our Prime Minister Imran Khan will be considered an attack on Pakistan. The Handlers will also regret their violent response.

PTI Chairman Imran Khan is expected to arrive in Islamabad on Sunday, according to Fawad Chaudhry. In April, Chaudhary said that the countrys security officials had discovered a plot to assassinate Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan.

The Pakistani tabloid Dawn quoted him as saying, After these reports, the prime ministers security has been ramped up as per the governments decision.

Faisal Vawda, the leader of Pakistans Tehreek-e-Insaf, made similar charges, claiming that a plot was hatched to assassinate Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif over his reluctance to sell the country.

In response to the letters allegation of a plot to assassinate the prime minister, Vawda stated that the Pakistan Prime Ministers life was in danger, but remained evasive.

This news comes a day after Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that a foreign country had sent him a message demanding that he be removed or suffer the repercussions.
NORWALK  In the aftermath of the Texas school shooting that resurfaced memories of Sandy Hook for many in Connecticut, local leaders are considering the potential harmful effects lockdown drills have on students.

Common Council member Barbara Smyth, a former Norwalk teacher for more than a decade, including when Sandy Hook occurred, has raised concerns about the effects active shooter and lockdown drills have on students and educators.

Were spending a lot of time talking about how they suffered and the increase in depression since COVID, which it is really important that we talk about that and we help our kids, but our kids were suffering before that, profoundly, and I think its important we look at the whole picture, Smyth said during last weeks meeting of the Common Councils Public Safety and General Government Committee.

The meetings discussion on mental health had been planned prior to the shooting in Uvalde, Texas, where 19 elementary school students and two teachers were killed. But the conversation had more significance in the aftermath of the Texas shooting and the death of a 7-year-old Norwalk student killed in her familys house fire.

We have a whole generation of kids who live in constant fear of the school shootings, the lockdowns, Smyth said.

During the meeting, Smyth recalled her experience at Ponus Ridge Middle School in the aftermath of the Sandy Hook shootings in 2012.

I taught in our schools for 12 years and I was teaching at Ponus the day of Sandy Hook and remembering what that was like for our kids and for me as a teacher and then the subsequent lockdown drills, we had to go through after that and continue to go through and how genuinely traumatizing the lockdown drills are, Smyth said. I would gather the kids and we would all be terrified. I would be my teacher self and take care of them and as soon as it was over, I would shake and shake and start to cry. I did that for years and most teachers do, and this is what our kids are going through.

While Smyth said an increase in anxiety among Norwalk youth is due to a myriad of stresses, including handling the COVID-19 pandemic, the constant worry and preparation for a potential school shooting is a significant contributor.

In a recent survey, Norwalk middle and high school students expressed concerns over safety after a series of hoax threats prompted three lockdowns at Norwalk High School in a span of a week this year.

A few years ago, Smyth said she would not have questioned the need for lockdown drills, but has since wondered whether they are causing more harm to students.

Two years ago, five years ago, I wouldve never asked this question. I wouldve said, Of course, we have to have them. We have to be prepared. We, as teachers, need to know what we have to do, but when youre in that situation..., she said, not finishing her thought.

I found myself really thinking with these little kids, its become a part of their DNA, which is why we have such an increase in anxiety.

Jim Martinez, Norwalk Public Schools director of school counseling and social services, said discussions over whether the drills are effective or harmful to students  or both  are important. But he said the drills are also necessary.

Its being talked about. I will say that yesterday for those of us participating who work in schools, with children who were in Sandy Hook, it triggered a lot of those feelings again, Martinez said. In education and even as grown-ups in general, we always focus on how the kids are feeling a certain kind of way, but we overlook how the adults are feeling. Right now, I will tell you its equally important to respond to the social-emotional state of the teachers and the staff in the buildings.

Martinez said its important to describe the drills to students and explain why they are safe and necessary.

Martinez said the district also needs to help staff members who have anxiety over the drills and the potential for a school threat.

The district works with the fire and police departments on an emergency response plan. NPS did not respond to a request for comment on lockdown and drill efficacy and frequency.

In the event of an emergency, the action and appropriate direction will be announced. Each school will drill these actions over the course of the school year, the websites security statement to families reads. We understand that in the aftermath of the tragedy at Sandy Hook and other recent events, your first reaction to reports of a potential incident may be to immediately go to the school. However, doing so will interfere with the response and activities of the first responders.

abigail.brone@hearstmediact.com
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NEW HAVEN  It was a time of renewed friendships and welcoming, but not for one alum from Yale's undergraduate class of 1987  Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh.

Classmates did not see him in person, but they sent a loud message nonetheless to Kavanaugh, who is expected to be the swing vote in a ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization this month. That ruling could end constitutional protection for abortion which has been in place under Roe v. Wade since 1973.

He can hear us from down in Chevy Chase, Maryland and we will make some noise in New Haven, said organizer and alumna Kathy Charlton at a rally for reproductive rights held Saturday in front of the Maya Lin Women's Table on Yales Cross Campus.

A crowd of around 300 encircled the sculpture, spilling onto the steps of the Sterling Memorial Library, holding signs with the same theme. Alumni from the six other Yale classes holding reunions on campus were among the crowd.

Brett Lied Again. Get off the Court Kavanaugh, one of them read. My Choice: Impeach Brett, read another.

Kavanaugh is one of four justices who signed onto a draft by Justice Samuel Alito that would overturn Roe and return decisions on abortion to the states. If this happens, it is estimated that 26 states are certain or likely to prohibit abortions.

Draft decision shows courts possible action

Carrie N. Baker, a professor at Smith College, a lawyer and contributing editor at Ms. Magazine, as well as a former classmate of Kavanaugh, called the draft decision appalling, but it is one that tells the American people what the court will do in the future.

It is an extreme decision that basically makes the Constitution irrelevant for many of the rights that we count on, Baker said.

She predicted the court will deep-six affirmative action and go after the right to contraception as first outlined in the 1965 case, Griswold v. Connecticut, decided under the rubric of privacy.

Rights enshrined under privacy pulled the cops out of our bedrooms. Pulled the politicians from rifling through our underwear draws and that is going away, Baker predicted.

She said the draft argues that the only protected rights are those explicitly stated in the Constitution  rights determined by slave-holders and property-holding white men who weren't thinking about abortion. It also refers to rights that have a long standing protection in U.S. history and tradition.

She said there is nothing in the opinion about rape or incest or other exceptions.

Baker said Alito used the term unborn child repeatedly throughout the decision, leading her to think Connecticut's abortion protective laws could be challenged next as violating an unborn childs rights that could lead to the end of abortion in all 50 states.

A college connection

While Kavanaugh, with his connection to the Yale Class of 1987 was the focus, Baker pointed out that of the five votes expected to overturn Roe v. Wade, Alito and Clarence Thomas also have Yale connections.

What the hell are we doing here? How are we producing people that think that they can take our rights away like this  long standing constitutional rights? she said to cheers.

Baker said she knew Kavanaugh as an undergraduate and the idea that hes prepared to take away peoples rights is appalling.

We need to hold him accountable, she said.

Baker, who chairs American Studies at Smith College, said one in five female students experience sexual assault while in college.

I think sexual assault and abortion bans are two sides of the same coin, Baker said. It is about taking away women's bodily autonomy. They are both a form of violence against women.

Access to abortion

Beth Parker, class of 1977 and general counsel at Planned Parenthood California Central Coast, said without Roe 36 million pregnant people will no longer be able to easily access abortion.

She said they will have to find a provider, locate transportation, travel hundreds of miles and incur huge expenses to cross borders to access the services. Parker also worries about those states that will criminalize crossing state lines and prosecute those aiding and abetting an abortion.

These laws will have a devastating impact on low-income women, people of color, immigrants and those who our healthcare system otherwise fails, Parker said.

Parker said with Roe, women in her graduating class were able to become full participants in society.

We had autonomy over our lives, she said. We could decide if, when and how many children to have. We can take full advantage of the educational and employment opportunities open to us.

When Roe is reversed, which is widely expected, all of these advances will evaporate, Parker added.

She shared real stories Planned Parenthood has experienced. She said under Roe the organization did not have to ask a pregnant woman to forego chemotherapy in favor of a nascent pregnancy; maintain a pregnancy after contraception fails; force a patient with a fatal abnormality to deliver a dead baby; nor allow a 13-year-old rape victim to carry a child to term.

These are not hypothetical or rare occurrences, she said.

The crowd was asked to go home and use their voices to educate, advocate and donate to the cause of reproductive rights.

An LGBTQ access issue

James Esseks, director of the ACLU Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer and HIV Project, and another classmate of Kavanaugh, said the draft decision represents a crisis, it represents a warning and it represents a call to action.

The largest portion of the LGBTQ community is bisexual and pan-sexual people who need access to abortion care, he said. It is an LGBTQ access issue.

He called Alito's test for protected rights enormously restrictive and worried it could take other rights away.

That includes the right to form intimate relationships with other consenting adults. He pointed to the past criminalization of sodomy for same-sex couples, but also oral sex for straight folks that could be brought back.

The other right, won in 2015, is the ability of same-sex couples to marry.

There is a lot at stake here ... and the sad reality is, the courts are not going to fix this for us, Esseks said. The courts can't fix this for us ... the only way forward is politics folks and our political system is broken, but that does not give us the excuse to just sit there and do nothing.

We are in the fight of our lives, he said.

Health concerns

Dr. Audrey Garrett, a gynecologic oncologist from the Class of 1987, talked about terrifying pragmatic concerns she has if Roe goes away.

She said there is no way to discern the difference between a miscarriage and a pregnancy termination, adding the risk is women may sit unattended to in an emergency room as they bleed and their situation worsens.

The danger is that women are going to be criminalized, Garrett said.

She said pre-Roe v. Wade, the medical community saw women every weekend in the emergency room and intensive care units sick, septic and sometimes dying from botched abortions.

Garrett asked the Yale alumni not be complacent.

She said very few clinicians have seen women die of a septic abortion. Garrett said she has. It really is not pretty and we don't, in this country, want to go back there.

Dr. Karen Horst, a reproductive psychiatrist practicing in Texas, also class of 1987, said she works with pregnant women who have an anomaly that is lethal or devastating, such as carrying a fetus with a genetic disorder, or a fetus with no brain or that part of the brain that makes us human.

They can't recommend termination if there is a heart beat.

She said several women have flown to other states for abortions.

Horst said she also had women show up with their membrane ruptured, which leaves them open to infection. They are sent home until they develop a fever which means they may be septic. Women with incomplete miscarriages have also come to her hospital.

We just have to let them bleed until we decide that they have bled too much. That is where we are in Texas right now, Horst said.

State Sen. Gary Winfield, D-10, co-chair of the Judiciary Committee, received extensive applause for his efforts on a bill that prohibits the state from extraditing anyone charged with a crime that is not illegal in Connecticut.

The bill covers abortion and expands the groups of medical personnel who can perform the procedure.

Winfield said people have always had to fight for their rights.

I don't want you to walk away and say I went to the rally, but I am dejected and I just don't want to deal with it, Winfield said.

He told them to go back to their states where they should advocate, educate and donate to the cause.

Those are the things to do, Winfield said. Those are the ways you change it.
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NEW HAVEN  The city unveiled plans for dozens of fun and enriching summer, events and programs for New Haven children, youth and families this summer that Mayor Justin Elicker said will have the city bursting with fun.

Summer is just around the corner and the City of New Haven will be bursting with fun and fulfilling activities in every neighborhood and for children and youth of all ages, interests and abilities, Elicker said in a press conference at Lighthouse Point Park.

The Youth and Recreation Department, along with other local nonprofits and organizations, are offering a variety of summer activities and programs across the city, according to a release. They all are listed in the newly-released Mayors 2022 Summer Youth Guide, a booklet and resource for parents, that is available online.

Printed copies also are being sent home with kids to New Haven Public School families. If a child or parent requires a disability-related accommodation to participate in the citys programs, it can be requested through the Youth and Recreation Department, according to the release.

We have something fun for everyone this summer, and we encourage New Havens children, youth and families to join the fun and create new memories this summer, Gwendolyn B. Williams, director of the Youth and Recreation Department said in the release.

... Students will also be provided with meaningful ways to develop their individual skill sets through positive and affirming activities while also in a structured and organized environment, Williams said.

Some activities that will be available, according to the release, include:

 Movies in the Park on Friday evenings at sunset, beginning June 3.

 Family Fun Days Wednesday afternoons between 2:30 and 5:30 p.m. beginning July 13, with free food, games, activities, bouncy houses, lives DJs and more.

 Weekly Summer Camps, which take place in city parks, schools and public spaces, run June 27 through August 12.

The Mayors 2022 Summer Youth Guide can be accessed online at https://bit.ly/2022SummerYouthGuide. For more information, residents also can contact the Youth and Recreation Department at 203-946-7582 or online at newhavenct.gov/youth.
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MONROE - Developer Thomas Schinella said he was proud when Panera Bread decided on Monroe as the second location in the country for its new restaurant design concept.

The future Monroe location at 205 Monroe Turnpike will be an example of the new Panera Bread next generation bakery, cafe and restaurant. The location will also have two drive thru lanes as the chain is now focusing on drive thrus and pick-up service powered by its app.

This is the only one so far in Connecticut, Schinella said. We were the second state that has been chosen. And its in Monroe.

Construction is nearly complete and Schinella said the restaurant should open by the end of the summer. The companys decision to build a location with two drive-thru lanes mirrors other chains in the area which have shifted focus to drive thrus as a result of increased business due to the pandemic.

Schinella said the future site will include a rapid pick-up lane where drivers can order ahead from the Panera app and pick up their food instead of waiting at the drive thru.

They love this because you can order things ahead of time (and) pick it up, Schinella said.

Not only will customers be able to order ahead of time, they can also choose contactless service and the bakery will be in full view of customers. The menus will also be digitized both inside the location and at the drive thru according to a company press release from 2021.

Panera Bread opened its first next generation bakery cafe and restaurant in Ballwin, Missouri last year. Schinella said the chain had several reasons why Monroe was next.

According to what they had mentioned to us, theyve been doing the study and they felt that Monroe, Connecticut was a very good central location and it was growing, he said.

While the restaurant is nearing completion, First Selectman Ken Kellogg said the original plan, which pre-dated the pandemic, underwent some revisions.

Originally, it was a traditional Panera Bread restaurant. And they came back with a proposal for Panera Cafe, which was their next generation design and restaurant, he said.

Company officials did not respond to a request for comment, but Kellogg said the new restaurant design incorporated a lot of glass and will have outdoor seating and decorative lights for diners.

Schinella said the decision to locate a Panera in Monroe could help draw in other investment to the town.

We hope that this is a catalyst to bring more tenants like this into Monroe for not only Monroe, but for the surrounding towns too, he said.
Gun control legislation may be gaining more ground than ever before, U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy said in a Sunday interview with CNNs Jake Tapper.

Murphy told Tapper he believed that Congress is poised to enact meaningful change on common-sense gun reform measures, including red flag laws that temporarily limit gun access for people who may misuse them.

I've never been part of negotiations as serious as these, Murphy said. There are more Republicans at the table talking about changing our gun laws and investing in mental health than at any time since Sandy Hook.

The Senate will need to make a decision on whether or not they have a sustainable legislative agenda in the next five days, Murphy told Tapper. Democrats on the House Judiciary Committee, meanwhile, have advanced a bill containing multiple gun-control measures.

Much of the discussion occurring in the Capitol right now has centered around the most palatable pieces of legislation, likely to garner the 60 votes necessary to pass the Senate, Murphy said.

In response to claims by prominent Republicans, including Texas Sen. John Cornyn, that gun reform would impact Second Amendment rights, Murphy said none of the laws on the table would compromise the right for law-abiding Americans to be able to buy a weapon.

What we're talking about is trying to make sure that dangerous or potentially dangerous individuals don't have their hands on weapons, Murphy said. We're not going to do everything I want... we're not going to put a piece of legislation on the table thats going to ban assault weapons. But right now, people in this country want us to make progress.

Murphy and other Democrats in Congress have felt a stronger urgency in calls for improvements to the background check system, he said. And Congress is simultaneously considering measures meant to parallel gun control laws, including investments in mental health initiatives and school security funding.

I'm more confident than ever that we're going to get there but I'm also more anxious about failure this time around, Murphy said. When I was in Connecticut last week, I've never seen the look on parents faces that I did. There's just a deep, deep fear for our children right now.
The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum, AYCF, on Sunday, condemned the decision of Northern governors to back a Southern Presidency in 2023. ...

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum, AYCF, on Sunday, condemned the decision of Northern governors to back a Southern Presidency in 2023.

AYCF National President, Yerima Shettima, said the decision of the Northern governors was undemocratic and disenfranchisement of Northerners.

Shettima lamented that the 11 Northern governors did not consult Northern stakeholders before zoning the Presidency to the Southern part of the Country.

In a statement he signed, the AYCF National President urged President Muhammadu Buhari to reject such a move by the governors.

According to Shettima, the decision was an attempt to deny Northerners their rights to participate in democracy.

He said: We have been following with keen interest the open disdain for the ethics of democracy by 11 Northern Governors who, willy-nilly traded off our regions right to participatory democracy by taking a stance on direct power shift to the South.

We are deeply disturbed that in addition to their failure to save the North from massive poverty, insurgency, banditry and kidnapping, they are turning around to deny us the right to freely choose where our people want the next President to come from. But we dont expect party Delegates to follow the self-serving agenda.

It is undemocratic to Zone Nigerias Presidency to the South in 2023 because it is the prerogative of voters to decide which candidate they would like to vote for, whether a Northerner or a Southerner. The masses have not spoken yet, and it amounts to imposition to declare that the South is the way to go.

The 11 Northern Governors did not indicate a single effort they made to consult their people in the region, before their wholesale endorsement of the declaration for a Southern presidential candidate. An important pillar of democracy, which in consultation with the masses, is out of the question because our governors would rather pretend that their wish is supreme.

We are deeply worried that the dream of having new faces at the helmsman of affairs of our democratic institutions has now been deliberately killed by self-serving Governors of the North.

Shettima accused the governors of deliberately attempting to blackmail Buhari into doing their bidding.

He added: The real agenda of these Northern governors, which is now unfolding, is to deliberately blackmail Buhari into doing their bidding. They expect the President, who loves his people so much, to turn his back via allowing his successor to emerge through the backdoor. We urge President Buhari never to succumb to these Governors cheap blackmail of selling out our peoples right to vote for the real candidate of their choice  whether a Northerner or not.

We call on all Northerners of good conscience to reject this wholesale disenfranchisement of innocent Northern voters in broad daylight by State Chief Executives that are bound by the constitution and the Rule of Law to protect and promote our interests as obedient followers. We say no to this brigandage and brazen dictatorship in the guise of democratic strategy.

We are seriously looking up to President Buhari not to let the North down. And our biggest hope are the Delegates who have a duty to do whatever is democratically right to defend, promote and project the interest of Nigerians in general and the Northerners in particular.

We are still watching very closely to this disenfranchising move of the Northern governors against their people, for self-serving political agenda. And we are also waiting to see what happens tomorrow, to see whether they have a new definition of democratic culture and decorum.
Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Rauf Olaniyan, has dumped the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state. Olaniyan al...

Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Rauf Olaniyan, has dumped the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state.

Olaniyan also said that he has joined the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He made these announcements on Sunday.

Our correspondent gathered that the defection of Olaniyan from PDP to APC is coming a few days after the state governor, Makinde dropped him ahead of the 2023 elections.

Recall that Olaniyan and Makinde were jointly elected as Deputy Governor and Governor on the platform of PDP in 2019.

The deputy governor, who is from the Oke-Ogun geopolitical zone, on Sunday said, Which official announcement do you want me to make?

My friends and people asked me to leave PDP.

I have joined APC.

There were speculations that the deputy governor would leave PDP, though he had severally denied the rumour.

Olaniyan who spoke during the last Eld-Fitri festival told journalists that God would determine his next political career.

The deputy governor, a few days after, said that about five political parties were asking him to contest on their platforms.
Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State has debunked reports that he stepped down from the presidential race and endorsed Senate President, Ahm...





Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State has debunked reports that he stepped down from the presidential race and endorsed Senate President, Ahmad Lawan.

Report on Saturday emerged that Umahi had stepped down for Lawan after Lawan visited him on Saturday.

But Umahis media aide, Francis Nwaze, described the report as inaccurate.

He said Lawan had earlier visited Umahi as part of the last-minute effort to forge a partnership ahead of the primary.

He said there was no discussion on the issue of stepping down during the meeting.

For the sake of discerning minds, what happened was that Senate President, Ahmed Lawal in a last-ditch effort to ramp up partnership ahead of the APC Presidential Primary, visited Governor Umahi in his Abuja residence on Saturday where they both promised to support whoever amongst the two and other Aspirants that emerge the Flagbearer of the Party in the Primary, the statement reads.

Nwaze explained that there was no time during the visit that the issue of stepping down by either Engineer Umahi or the Senate President was discussed or even suggested.

He urged Nigerians to disregard the news item and assured that Umahi is still in the race to develop Nigeria.
Less than 12 hours after President Muhammadu Buhari urged APC presidential aspirants to meet and come up with a consensus candidate, one of...

Less than 12 hours after President Muhammadu Buhari urged APC presidential aspirants to meet and come up with a consensus candidate, one of them, Godswill Akpabio, said he will not withdraw from the race.

Mr Akpabios position also comes less than 24 hours to the commencement of the presidential primary of the ruling party, APC.

There have been rumours online that the former Senate Minority Leader has withdrawn from the race in favour of an aspirant from the South-west.

But Mr Akpabio, in a post on Facebook on Sunday morning, described the news as wicked lies and urged delegates to disregard it.

Dear national delegates, please disregard the wicked lies making the rounds that I, your choice for the office of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 2023, has withdrawn from the race.

I have not withdrawn from the race because I know you are solidly behind my aspiration. I will not withdraw because I have your support.

Together, we will triumph and I will emerge the presidential candidate of our party and we will march together to win the presidential election, he said.

Mr Akpabio, a former governor of Akwa Ibom State, recently resigned as Minister of Niger Delta Affairs to focus on his aspiration of securing the ticket of the ruling party to contest the 2023 presidential election.

He has been travelling around the country to seek the support of APC delegates. He was in Edo State on Saturday to meet with the partys delegates.

Mr Akpabio is one of the aspirants cleared by the APC to take part in its presidential election taking place in Abuja from Monday to Wednesday.

It can be recalled that President Muhammadu Buhari told the aspirants, on Saturday, to consult and produce a consensus candidate among themselves.

Apart from Mr Akpabio, the other APC presidential aspirants include Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Senate President Ahmad Lawan, ex-Lagos governor Bola Tinubu, Ekiti Governor Kayode Fayemi and Ebonyi Governor David Umahi.
As the presidential primary of the All Progressives Congress inches closer, the Governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu, has denied a rep...

As the presidential primary of the All Progressives Congress inches closer, the Governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu, has denied a report that he has endorsed a particular aspirant to get the ticket of the party.

Akeredolu declared that he had not endorsed any aspirant as contained in the said report, describing it as falsehood. He said all he wanted was to ensure the party picks a southerner as its flagbearer.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Richard Olatunde.

According to the statement, the intention of the writer of the report, was to drag the governor into unnecessary declarations, despite public knowledge of his position as the Chairman of the Southern Governors Forum.

The statement read, Nevertheless, Governor Akeredolu has continued to reiterate the stance of his brother governors in the Southern Nigeria Governors Forum on the need for the south to produce the next president of the country in the spirit of equity and fairness.

In clear terms, the widely circulated statement never emanated from Governor Akeredolu. It was, obviously, driven by overzealous partisan interests calculated to exploit the political capital of the Governor for personal gains.

We, however, urge members of the public, particularly members of the APC and the party supporters, to disregard the statement as it does not represent the collective decision of the Southern Governors Forum which Governor Akeredolu leads.

Succinctly, Governor Akeredolu as a leader and stakeholder in the Southern Presidency agitation, is committed to the interest of the Southern Nigeria geo-political zone. He will not descend into an arena of partisanship to jeopardise the interest of the forum he leads.
Legal practitioner, Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa has condemned the murder of worshippers at a church in Owo, Ondo State. Dozens of Christians...

Legal practitioner, Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa has condemned the murder of worshippers at a church in Owo, Ondo State.

Dozens of Christians were hacked to death on Sunday at the St Francis Catholic Church, Owa-luwa Street.

Adegboruwa said the attack might have been perpetrated due to Akeredolus stance on issues like restructuring, resource control, power rotation, open grazing and state police.

The Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) noted that it is ungodly to take any life, whatever the motive may be.

He said whether in the mosque or church, innocent worshippers should not be killed in the course of the practice of their faith.

Adegboruwa added that although no one has claimed responsibility, security agencies bear a duty to unravel the perpetrators and bring them to justice.

The bloodshed in the land is too much and no reason can be advanced for this desperate act of wickedness.

Owo being the hometown of Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, I pray that this datardly act has nothing to do with his principled stand on national issues.

The SAN reminded Nigerians that the Ondo helmsman has also been at the forefront of regional security outfit, Amotekun.

He urged Akeredolu not to relent in any of these noble pursuits, if that is the genuine desire of the people that he represents.

The renowned lawyer expressed condolences to the families of the dead, the Catholic Church, and the people and government of Ondo.
President Muhammadu Buhari has condemned the attack on a church in Owo LGA of Ondo state The St Francis Catholic Church was attacked b...

President Muhammadu Buhari has condemned the attack on a church in Owo LGA of Ondo state

The St Francis Catholic Church was attacked by gunmen while the Sunday service was nearing its conclusion.

The gunmen were said to have detonated explosives before firing at the worshippers.

Many people were killed in the attack, including children and women.





The president, in a statement by Femi Adesina, his spokesperson, said only demons from the underworld would have conceived and carried out the attack.

Buhari condoled with the families of the deceased, the Ondo state government and the Catholic community.

President Muhammadu Buhari has condemned the heinous killing of worshippers Sunday at the St Francis Catholic Church, Owa-luwa Street, Owo Kingdom, in Ondo state, the statement reads.

The president says only fiends from the nether region could have conceived and carried out such a dastardly act, adding that eternal sorrow awaits them both on earth here, and ultimately in the hereafter.

President Buhari mourns the dead, condoles with their families, the Catholic Church, and the Government of Ondo State, charging emergency agencies to swing into action, and bring succor to the wounded.

No matter what, this country shall never give in to evil and wicked people, and darkness will never overcome light. Nigeria will eventually win.
President Muhammadu Buhari Saturday night met with Prof Yemi Osinbajo, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all other aspirants for President on th...

President Muhammadu Buhari Saturday night met with Prof Yemi Osinbajo, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all other aspirants for President on the platform of All Progressives Congress, at State House, Abuja.

During the meeting, Buhari told the aspirants to hold consultations, and come up with a formidable candidate before the party holds its primary election between June 6-8, 2022.

The President said the meeting was a continuation of the on-going consultative process aimed at ensuring a smooth and strategic emergence of a standard-bearer, who will lead the APC to a resounding victory in the upcoming presidential polls.

Looking at this assemblage of personalities and considering your rich pedigree of accomplishments in life, I have come to the conclusion that our party, the APC, is rich in human resources and also that our nation is blessed with capable people that can successfully steer the ship of state into the future, Buhari said, according to a statement from his media aide, Femi Adesina.

He added that with his first-hand knowledge of the demands of the office of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the expectations of the citizens, I must salute your courage and your selfless spirit, in volunteering to serve in the highest office of the land.

The President added: Our party, the APC, has won two successive presidential elections in 2015, first when we were in the opposition and in 2019 when I sought re-election. Both processes were achieved through unity of purpose, strategic alignment, consultation, fairness, determination and effective leadership. In both instances, national and party interests were overriding factors in our deliberations and decision-making.

The 2023 General Elections are fast approaching in a global, regional and national environment that is constantly changing and challenging. This demands that our party should become more aware of the changing environment, be responsive to the yearnings of our citizens, re-evaluate our strategy and strengthen our internal mechanism so that we would sustain the electoral successes.

I am pleased to note that the party, recognizing the significance of all these demands, has over time developed several democratically acceptable processes and policies, that promote consultation, internal cohesion and leadership to facilitate victories at the polls.

The President recalled the consultation he had held with stakeholders that would help the electoral fortunes of our party, beginning with the State Governors. This is the second in the series and I still look forward to meeting with party stakeholders. These steps are being taken to ensure that the unity and cohesion of the party are sustained and to provide direction.

Amongst others things, I reminded the APC Governors of the need for the party to proceed to the 2023 Presidential elections with strength, unity of purpose and to present a flag bearer who will give Nigerians a sense of hope and confidence, while ensuring victory for our party. I extend a similar reminder to all of you distinguished aspirants.

Saying the APC will on Monday June 6, 2022, commence its national convention during which one candidate will be picked by delegates to fly the flag of the party for the 2023 Presidential Election, President Buhari said he was aware that there is anxiety among party members about the outcome of the process.

Given these circumstances, I charge you to recognize the importance of the stability and unity of the party, which cannot be overemphasized.

Similarly, I wish to remind you that our choice of flag bearer must be formidable, appealing to the electorate across the board and should command such ability to unify the country and capacity to address our critical challenges.

Ahead of the Convention, the party machinery has screened and found all aspirants eminently qualified. Recognizing this fact, the Screening Committee has, amongst others, recommended that consensus building through consultation, be intensified.

Without prejudice to your qualifications, I urge all of you to hold consultations amongst yourselves and with the party, with a view to building a consensus in a manner that would help the party reduce the number of aspirants, bring up a formidable candidate and scale down the anxiety of party members.

The President assured that in the interest of the nation and the party, he would continue to provide effective leadership during the transition processes and on-going consultations, until we successfully make the choice on the candidate that will fly the flag of our party for the presidential elections and make the party stronger. I seek your support in this all important responsibility.

Earlier, National Chairman of the party, Senator Abdullahi Adamu had promised that all stakeholders of the party would be reached in the consultation process.

Responding on behalf of the aspirants, former Governor of old Abia State and immediate past Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu, Governor Abubakar Badaru of Jigawa State, and Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, thanked the President for his leadership and guidance, pledging that they would hold the consultations as counselled for the unity and strength of our party, the APC.
Former senator and Rivers State governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress, Magnus Abe, has supported comments made by a presi...

Former senator and Rivers State governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress, Magnus Abe, has supported comments made by a presidential aspirant, Bola Tinubu, about the President, Muhammadu Buhari.

Tinubu had caused a stir on Thursday when he claimed that without him, Buhari would not have become the president in 2015.

The former governor of Lagos State made the statement at the Presidential Lodge in Abeokuta, Ogun State capital, when he was addressing the APC delegates ahead of the partys primary.

Reacting to the outburst, Abe, who represented Rivers South-East district in the upper chamber of the National Assembly, described Tinubus remarks as a statement of fact no one can deny.

In a statement signed by his spokesperson, Parry Saroh Benson, on Saturday, Abe insisted that there is nothing new or different about the statement, which has been publicly admitted by the President himself.

The statement quoted Abe as saying, It is no longer news to all genuine lovers of the APC, that the past seven years have witnessed all sorts of evil plots by desperate politicians to destroy the fabric of unity between President Muhammadu Buhari and the National Leader of the APC, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He did not say anything new, which Nigerians do not know. So, the politically contrived hue and cry about the factual statement is to create disunity between both leaders in order to promote their plots to upstage Asiwaju and destroy him in a classic use and dump fashion.

I appeal to all members of our great party, the APC, to disregard the innuendos aimed at painting Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu in bad light as, in the minds of the plotters, there is nothing he will do that will not attract condemnation.

Delegates should focus on their future, the future of the country and our Party, and ignore these chameleons and wolves in sheeps clothing; Asiwaju we know and Asiwaju we shall follow.

Therefore, I urge all party faithful to be firm, especially delegates and be committed to the success of our party.
At least 40 people have been reportedly killed in an attack on St Francis Catholic Church, Owa-luwa Street, in Owo town, Owo Local Govern...

At least 40 people have been reportedly killed in an attack on St Francis Catholic Church, Owa-luwa Street, in Owo town, Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State.

NigerianEye gathered that the incident happened in the church, which is less than 200 meters away from the Palace of Olowo of Owo.

Workers at the Federal Medical Centre, Owo, confirmed that many people were brought in dead on Sunday.

The attack was carried out during the Sunday mass, NigerianEye was told.

A viral online video showed some worshippers being killed and lying on the floor of the church in the pool of their own blood.

A twitter user (@_Gowel, who survived the attack tweeted below...

ST FRANCIS XAVIER CHURCH, OWO , ONDO STATE WAS JUST ATTACKED BY MULTIPLE GUNMEN. MULTIPLE PEOPLE SHOT DEAD- MANY CHILDREN  GWL (@_Gowel) June 5, 2022

HOW I AM ALIVE I DO NOT KNOW  GWL (@_Gowel) June 5, 2022

Man, life can come at you so fast  GWL (@_Gowel) June 5, 2022

One of the health workers on duty at the Federal Medical Centre, Owo, where the casualties were taken to said over 50 people had been brought to the hospital.

He said, They are still bringing people to the hospital, some have been confirmed dead while some are still breathing. But for now, I cant specify the number of those dead.

A source in the palace told NigerianEye that there is tension and panic in the area..

He said, The church that was attacked was at the back of the palace and we are still wondering how gunmen could carry out such an attack at the centre of the town. This is unbelievable. Kabiyesi will soon issue a statement on the incident.

Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer, Mrs Funmilayo Odunlami, said the command was yet to ascertain the cause of the incident.

The CP (Commissioner of Police) is on his way to the scene to ascertain the cause of the incident. We have been hearing so many things about it but I will get back to you.
The Bola Tinubu campaign organisation has asked Senate President Ahmad Lawan, Yahaya Bello, governor of Kogi, and Ahmed Yerima, ex-Zamfara g...





The Bola Tinubu campaign organisation has asked Senate President Ahmad Lawan, Yahaya Bello, governor of Kogi, and Ahmed Yerima, ex-Zamfara governor, to withdraw from the presidential race.

On Saturday, the northern All Progressives Congress (APC) governors released a statement calling on presidential hopefuls from the region to withdraw from the APC presidential race.

They also asked President Muhammadu Buhari to look toward the southern presidential hopefuls when considering his successor.

Reacting to the development, Bayo Onanuga, the campaign organisations spokesperson, commended the gesture, saying all lovers of peace, progress, equity, justice and stability of Nigeria should celebrate and honour the northern APC governors.





Onanuga, in a statement, described the northern governors as worthy patriots for their decision to support power shift to the south.

He said the decision removed all the anxieties, uncertainties and conspiracy theories hovering around the partys presidential nomination process.

He also commended Abubakar Badaru, governor of Jigawa state, for promptly complying with the position of the northern leaders in APC.

We enjoin other aspirants such as the Senate President Ahmad Lawan, Governor Yahaya Bello and former Governor Ahmed Rufai Sani Yerima to also bow out of the race. History will be kind to them all, Onanuga said.

Onanuga said the APC can now go into its national convention without acrimony and suspicions.

We salute the courage of the APC governors from the north for their patriotic decision to sustain the unity of the country and that of the party. The decision of the Northern APC governors has once again confirmed that our country will make tremendous progress when the bond of our unity is strengthened and preserved, he said.

Our APC northern governors have shown that the APC believes in power rotation in the true spirit of national equity and justice, unlike the opposition Peoples Democratic Party that abandoned its zoning policy for hegemonic political expediency, ethnic and religious calculations that grossly undermined the partys commitment to the 1999 constitution.





Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu believes that our country does better when leaders across the country rise above personal, ethnic and religious sentiments to uphold justice and fairness.

These governors are patriots and honourable men who will be remembered for acting to save Nigeria from potential political crisis and another round of national distrust and mistrust.

With this decision, the future of APC as the governing party in Nigeria is very bright as a true national party. The party can now proceed to hold the convention as a united, strong and viable political platform by electing a capable presidential flag bearer in whom the Nigerian people can invest their trust by supporting him to win the general election.

We are confident that the delegates will make the right choice by giving Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu the honour of flying the flag of APC as our presidential candidate in line with the expectation of President Muhammadu Buhari that the candidate of our party must be one who can win election, who is acceptable to all Nigerians and one who can give Nigerians a sense of confidence and victory.

Onanuga added that Tinubu is the most prepared and capable of all the aspirants and has shown this with his track record in Lagos.
Watertown, NY (13601)

Today

Cloudy with occasional rain during the afternoon. High 73F. Winds S at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall near a quarter of an inch..

Tonight

Thunderstorms this evening followed by occasional showers overnight. Low near 55F. Winds SW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 80%.
Watertown, NY (13601)

Today

Cloudy early with partial sunshine expected late. High around 70F. Winds WSW at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Cloudy skies with periods of rain after midnight. Low 57F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%.
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Hey Blake,

I know Tennessee Williams spent time in New Orleans and wrote A Streetcar Named Desire here, but where did he live?

Dear reader,

Although he was born in Columbus, Mississippi, and grew up near St. Louis, Tennessee Williams considered New Orleans his spiritual home. The playwright also famously called the French Quarter the last frontier of Bohemia.

As he told WWL-TV anchor Eric Paulsen in a 1981 interview, the city also is where Williams, who was gay, discovered a certain flexibility in my sexual nature. He added that, coming here, he felt like a migratory bird going to a more congenial climate.

Williams first came to New Orleans in the 1930s. According to Susan Larsons The Booklovers Guide to New Orleans, Williams rented a room at 620 Chartres St.

In 1939, Williams rented an apartment at 722 Toulouse St., which is now part of the Historic New Orleans Collection. He set some of his early works there, including the semi-autobiographical play Vieux Carre.

Williams later moved to a second-floor apartment at 710 Orleans Ave., near the rear of St. Louis Cathedral. There, he wrote the one-act play Ten Blocks on the Camino Real in 1946.

Later that year, while living in an apartment at 632 St. Peter, he wrote the work for which he is best known, A Streetcar Named Desire. In a 1971 Esquire interview with Rex Reed, Williams described writing the play under a skylight at a large refectory table. Williams lived in the apartment from October 1946 through March 1947, while writing the play, which debuted later that year. It won the Pulitzer Prize for drama and in 1951 became an Academy Award-nominated film.

Williams final New Orleans address was 1014 Dumaine Street. He bought the 1835 Greek Revival townhouse in 1962 and lived off and on there in a second-floor apartment, during the last 20 years of his life. Williams died in New York in February 1983.
New Orleans

Calvin Johnson, a retired judge, has been named the new chair of Libertys Kitchen Board of Directors.

After retiring from the Orleans Parish Criminal District Court, Johnson was one of the founding organizers of Libertys Kitchen in 2008. The organization helps young people overcome barriers to employment, helping them with issues such as housing, mental health care access and transportation.

Kara Johnson has been elected as board vice chair. She is an attorney and founder of The Cook Shop, which produces seasonings inspired by her grandparents.

Jeff Gulotta has been hired as career readiness trainer.

Gulotta has years of experience in managing and hiring for the culinary and hospitality industry.

---

Reshonda W. Thompson and Kelly A. Gismondi have joined Simon, Peragine, Smith & Redfearn.

Thompson focuses her practice on trucking and transportation law, casualty litigation, personal injury and premise liability cases. She has close to 10 years of experience handling bench trials in both city and district court. Before joining the firm, Thompson worked for a large regional personal injury firm. She earned a bachelor's degree from Southeastern Louisiana University, graduating magna cum laude, and her law degree from LSU's Paul M. Hebert Law Center.

Gismondi focuses her practice on construction and commercial litigation. She has significant experience in formal and informal court advocacy through plea and sentencing negotiations with judges and district attorneys.

Gismondi served as a judicial law clerk in the Ninth Judicial Circuit Court of Florida. She earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Central Florida, a Master of Education degree from Lipscomb University and her law degree from Loyola University New Orleans College of Law, graduating cum laude. During her undergraduate and graduate years, she worked as a middle school English teacher for Teach for America.

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Shaun Clarke, a criminal and commercial trial lawyer, is now a partner with Phelps.

Clarke built practices in Louisiana and Texas. Before that, he worked in the U.S. Attorney's Office in New Orleans.

He earned a bachelor's degree from Brown University and his law degree from Yale Law School.

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Royal Sonesta New Orleans has hired several leadership positions.

Glen Clarke is the hotels executive chef. Clarke holds over 25 years of experience in the culinary industry. He most recently served as executive chef with Princess Cruises.

Randall Scott-Miller has been hired as director of rooms. Scott-Miller served as director of rooms for Hilton hotels in Key West, Florida.

Celeste Saltalamachia has been hired as human resources director. Saltalamachia most recently served as the regional human resources manager for the Caesars Superdome.

Olivia Sage-El rejoins the staff as catering sales manager. Sage-El has extensive experience with event planning in New Orleans.

Baton Rouge

Scott McCallister has been appointed west region vice president for Coca-Cola Bottling Co. United, effective Aug. 1.

McCallister will be based in Baton Rouge and responsible for Coca-Cola's sales, marketing and distribution for Louisiana and south Mississippi.

McCallister serves as Louisiana Division director for Coca-Cola United and is responsible for six sales centers with approximately 1,500 associates. He has been with the company since 2015, when he was named director of the former North Louisiana Division.

McCallister joined the Coca-Cola system in 1995 after three years with the Kroger Co. He will replace Susanne Hall, who will become senior vice president and chief commercial officer for Coca-Cola United.

He earned a bachelor's degree in business administration from Ouachita Baptist University.

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Lydia Thom has been named vice president of human resources and training at La Capitol Federal Credit Union.

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Thom brings more than 20 years of experience as a human resources manager, including roles with Amedisys, Associated Grocers and Baton Rouge General. She served the previous two years as La Capitols director of human resources.

She earned bachelor's degrees in finance and management, with a concentration in human resources, both from Southeastern Louisiana University.

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Lyons Specialty Co., a Port Allen-based wholesale distributor, has announced a number of recent promotions.

Jason Alexander has been promoted to vice president of sales (formerly regional sales manager). Alexander began his career with Lyons in 1998 as a warehouse picker and has since worked in all aspects of the business including positions as a truck driver, merchandiser, warehouse supervisor and coffee/slush machine installer.

Dawn Byrd has been named general manager. Before joining Lyons in October, Byrd was with Albemarle Corp. for nearly 27 years, holding a variety of positions including director, global procure-to-pay and business process owner.

Andy Clow has been promoted to business development manager. Clow joined Lyons in July and previously worked in account acquisition, management and development taking on progressively increased responsibilities at both the distributor and broker levels.

Kameryn F. Zito has been promoted to controller after holding the position of assistant controller for two years.

Other position changes at Lyons include Quincy Robertson, director of warehouse operations; Sal Caminita, director of transportation; and Chris Welty, director of inventory control.

Around Louisiana

K. Brent Vidrine, president and CEO of Bank of Sunset, was installed as the 2022-23 chair of the Louisiana Bankers Association's Board of Directors.

Vidrine succeeds Jerry Ledet, president and CEO of Synergy Bank in Houma. As outgoing association chair, Ledet will continue to serve for one year as immediate past chair on the LBA Board of Directors.

The other 2022-23 officers are:

Chairman-elect Joseph F. Quinlan III of First National Bankers Bank in Baton Rouge

Treasurer Brian North of Fifth District Savings Bank in New Orleans

Delegates to the association convention elected these new directors:

Acadiana region: Kip Bertrand of Washington State Bank

Capitol region: Mark S. Marionneaux of Bank of Zachary

Central region: Darryl J. Ellerbee Jr., of Delta Bank in Vidalia

Southwest region: Samuel V. Wilkinson of First Federal Bank of Louisiana in Lake Charles

Other association directors continuing to serve for the upcoming year are:

Northeast region: Paige B. Oliver of Bank of Oak Ridge

Northwest region: John C. Cole of Gibsland Bank & Trust

South Central region: Steven J. Crispino of South Louisiana Bank in Houma

Southeast region: Chip Knight of Hancock Whitney Bank in New Orleans

Southeast region: Chris Ferris of Fidelity Bank in New Orleans

At-large member: Rose M. Miller of First National Bank of Louisiana in Lafayette

Ginger Laurent, LBA CEO in Baton Rouge.
Employees at a Starbucks store in New Orleans voted on Saturday to become the first unionized branch of the Seattle-based coffee retailer in the state of Louisiana, according to Billie Nyx, the head organizer of the union campaign.

Nyx said that, of the 15 eligible voters, 14 voted. Two votes were contested but 11 voted to unionize with one vote opposed, making the final vote 11 to 1 in favor of the union. The store is located at 7700 Maple Street.

In April, the National Labor Relations Board received a petition to set a union election at the store.

Nyx and co-workers are pushing for changes at the store because they say its frequently understaffed and offers insufficient wages or sick time. According to some counts, the store in New Orleans will be the 102nd unionized Starbucks store, after a wave of union elections across the country, starting with a successful December vote at a Starbucks in Buffalo, which became the nations first unionized Starbucks store.

The vote in New Orleans ended at 4:30 p.m. Saturday and the results were announced at 4:45 p.m.

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Nyx said that the next steps include holding meetings to discuss what the stores union contract should look like.

The company issued a statement on the vote Sunday.

We are listening and learning from the partners in these stores as we always do across the country," the statement said. "From the beginning, weve been clear in our belief that we are better together as partners, without a union between us, and that conviction has not changed. We respect our partners right to organize and are committed to following the NLRB process.

Nyx, a former employee, was fired for closing the store three hours early in May during Jazz Fest, saying that it was understaffed. The company said the closing had been against the wishes of the store's manager and Nyx had been "insubordinate and rude" to the manager on the phone when discussing the early closing.

Nyx says the firing was motivated by the union organizing and that the store had been closed in line with recent practice at other Starbucks outlets in the region because of staff shortages.
Individuals and businesses from the New Orleans area suing Entergy over alleged missteps after Hurricane Ida have cleared a hurdle in their effort to have the case heard in a local court.

The United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit ruled on Friday that the case should be heard in state rather than federal court, where Entergy had sought to move the lawsuit.

There is still a second appeal by Entergy that is to be decided by the same court in the next couple of weeks, but lawyers for the plaintiffs said Friday that Entergy's additional appeal concerned the same issues and they expect the same outcome.

"The (appeals court's) ruling was squarely in our favor and we were lucky to win that battle," said Andrew Jacoby, one of the lawyers representing the plaintiffs. "Obviously, we're happy about that ruling."

The class action lawsuit was originally filed with Orleans Parish Civil District Court last September in the immediate aftermath of Ida and the ensuing blackout that lasted for about 10 days for most residents in Orleans and Jefferson parishes.

The plaintiffs, which include small businesses like Carnival Collectibles in the French Quarter and The Community Book Center in Treme, as well as individual ratepayers in Orleans and Jefferson, are suing over what they say is the negligence of Entergy Corporation and its operating units, Energy New Orleans and Entergy Louisiana.

The lawsuit claims the plaintiffs suffered "emotional distress and mental anguish; loss of habitation and relocation costs; property damage; physical injuries; and the wrongful death of at least ten individuals."

They are seeking unspecified damages.

Entergy spokesman Brandon Scardigli said Friday that "unfortunately, we cannot comment on pending litigation."

'Thousands' inquiring

Juan LaFonta, another lawyer representing plaintiffs in the case, said that the class joining the lawsuit continues to grow. "We have signed a few hundred cases (and there are) much more to come," he said. "The inquiries have been in the thousands."

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Entergy had sought to have the case moved to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana, arguing that it was the proper jurisdiction.

Large companies being sued in class actions typically try to move the cases to federal court from state court as the former has a reputation for being a more friendly venue for corporations.

The lower courts, where judges are elected rather than appointed, are often perceived as being more plaintiff-friendly in such cases.

Class action lawsuits against well-resourced companies like Entergy typically are drawn out over several years, said Jacoby. But he said the plaintiffs are motivated by a desire to keep the spotlight on Entergy for what they claim has been years of neglect of the local power system while the company prioritized profits.

"Entergy knew full well that by letting its power grid languish unhardened that the grid was vulnerable to even a relatively weak storm," said Jacoby.

"Instead of shoring up its dilapidated power grid, Entergy chose instead to invest in new, lucrative projects," he added. "The result was the unnecessarily severe catastrophic collapse of the power grid during Hurricane Ida. Entergy customers cannot rely on a system that does not adequately monitor, repair, and upgrade as needed."

'No' from Entergy on cost-sharing

Last month, regulators overseeing Entergy Louisiana put pressure on Entergy executives, including CEO Leo Denault, to come up with some of the nearly $5 billion ratepayers are being asked to pay to make repairs caused by Ida and earlier storms in 2020 and 2021.

Entergy is the regulated supplier of gas and electricity in New Orleans and most of Louisiana, and the laws under which it operates allow it to pass on all of its expenses, including storm damage and infrastructure costs, to ratepayers.

It is allowed to earn a guaranteed margin of about 10% a year.

Denault declined to commit to any cost sharing and said the company would go through the usual process to determine how storm repairs are paid for.
A Plaquemines Parish Sheriff's Office deputy injured during a wild ATV chase in which he was allegedly struck intentionally is now recovering from multiple surgeries and in stable condition, the department said Saturday.

The officer was injured while chasing 18-year-old Reginald Hamilton, who is accused of intentionally driving into the deputy with an all-terrain vehicle while trying to flee from authorities earlier this week. The officer underwent a 15-hour surgery on Friday and was in stable condition in the intensive care unit.

Hamilton, of New Orleans, was discharged from a local hospital and transported to the Plaquemines Parish Detention Center. He faces several charges, including attempted first degree murder of a police officer and aggravated flight from an officer.

His family says they want to see dashcam footage of the incident to fully understand what happened. They believe the crash was unintentional.

On Wednesday, a second suspect in connection to the crash was arrested and booked by the Sheriff's Office.

Authorities say Kody Blanchard, 18, of Marrero, was the ATV driver who had escaped from the deputies pursuing him and Hamilton after the two were reported for reckless driving in the Woodland Highway area of Belle Chasse.

He also faces a bevy of charges, including attempted murder of a police officer and aggravated flight from an officer, the Sheriff's Office added.

The deputy was hit by the ATV on Louisiana Highway 407 on Tuesday near the Woodland Highway Bridge in Belle Chasse. According to the sheriffs office, the deputy had pursued two ATVs that were riding on a public roadway.

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During the chase, Blanchard allegedly traveled on an ATV to Louisiana Highway 406. Hamilton is alleged to have stayed on Highway 407 and hit the deputy, who had parked his PPSO car in the middle of the highway near the Woodland bridge and then got out to try and flag down the four-wheeler.

According to the sheriffs office, as Hamilton got close to the deputy, he abruptly steered the ATV into the deputy.

Both Hamilton and the deputy were severely injured. Hamilton was hospitalized until Friday, when he was released to Louisiana State Police troopers, who transported him to the Plaquemines Parish Detention Center. He will be confined until he appears before a magistrate in the 25th Judicial District Court.

According to family spokeswoman Ashonta Wyatt, Hamiltons family believes that the crash was unintentional and would like to see the squad cars dashcam footage.

The family only wants the truth, Wyatt said. We empathize and sympathize with the family of the injured deputy. This is not about laying blame at the foot of a police office. We just want to find out what happened."

Plaquemines Parish Sheriff's Office spokesman Lieutenant Chaun Domingue said that all evidence related to the incident has been turned over to the Louisiana State Police Bureau of Investigations (BOI), whose detectives are investigating. Any questions about the footage should be directed to the state police, he said.

State Police had not immediately responded to a request for comment.
Even with a master's degree in biotechnology, Shermeen Masood, a 34-year-old living in Oman, struggled for years to find a job. With a baby on the way and an out-of-country move ahead of her, she thought a doctorate would set her apart and help her get hired.

When an online school called City University of New Orleans told her she had been awarded a scholarship to attend its virtual doctorate program  which it said was part of the University of New Orleans  she was overjoyed. After a phone call with someone who claimed to be performing a background check on behalf of Omans embassy in Washington, she gladly paid what the university told her was a greatly reduced fee: $1,750.

But despite that payment and several more, Masood never got to take a class. She realizes she's been had.

It wasnt just the money," she said in an interview from Nairobi, Kenya, where she now lives with her husband and toddler. "It was my dream shattering into pieces."

City University of New Orleans, a fake online university claiming to be an accredited virtual school affiliated with the University of New Orleans, has been scamming thousands of dollars from people since at least the beginning of last year, according to prospective students who say they paid fees but never began classes.

UNO officials are aware of the situation and say they've been trying to take action, with limited success.

Trying 'to mislead and prey upon' students

Adam Norris, a UNO spokesperson, said the university has received complaints from at least four students who thought they were paying for an online UNO degree. UNO has no affiliation with CUNO.

The University of New Orleans is concerned that CUNO is using UNOs name recognition and visual identity to mislead and prey upon unsuspecting students and families, Norris said.

Norris said that elements of the CUNO and UNO websites are strikingly similar and that CUNO had used UNOs logo, letterhead and name in email communications with students "in an attempt to assert its legitimacy and entice payment, Norris said.

He said UNO staff members have tried to contact CUNO but have not heard back. UNO referred the complaints they received to state Attorney General Jeff Landry's office, which told them the matter would be referred to the FBI if warranted, Norris said.

Landry's office said did not immediately respond to emails or phone calls.

Since March of last year, the Federal Trade Commission has received five complaints of fraud about City University New Orleans, according to public records. The FBI's New Orleans office declined to answer any questions about potential investigations or offer any other comment.

Red flags

On its website, CUNO claims to have 55,000 enrolled students, 48,000 of whom are international. It purports to offer dozens of degrees, including an undergraduate diploma in a six month self-paced program and multiple doctorate degree options, all of which are advertised as accredited.

But the institution is not listed in the Department of Education's database of accredited postsecondary institutions and programs, nor is it listed by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, the body that accredits higher education institutions in the South. The CUNO website has a link to an online certificate of accreditation from the Regional Council for the Accreditation of American Institutes, which is not recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and has a non-working phone number.

The Times-Picayune | The Advocate called a number associated with CUNO that was provided by a student who said they were scammed. A man who identified himself as Joshua Sanders answered, describing himself as a "student advisor" at CUNO. He said the school is "an online university" that it is accredited by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. While that body indeed accredits institutions in the U.S., CUNO is not among them.

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Phony accreditation claims are a hallmark of online scammers, said Ralph Russo, a cybersecurity expert and director of Tulane Universitys school of professional advancement information technology programs.

This type of scam is as old as the hills, but its very much enabled by technology, he said.

The FBI said in a report released March 2021 that there had been a substantial increase in complaints of suspected internet crime from 2019 to 2020, including phishing scams, non-payment/non-delivery scams and extortion.

In online education scams, a few people can make themselves seem like a large institution at relatively little cost by buying a domain name, a Google phone number and even a building, he said. Russo pointed to the Saint Regis University scam of 2005, when a federal investigation uncovered a booming billion-dollar operation distributing bogus diplomas.

If an offer seems too good to be true, it usually is, Russo said. Oftentimes, fake colleges offer degrees in an impossibly short amount of time and advertise minimal interaction with professors. Their promotional materials often include typos and poor grammar.

There were other red flags with CUNO. The website points interested students to a New Orleans address, 3744 Woodland Ave., which is an empty lot next to the University of Holy Cross in Algiers.

And the website is full of outlandish, poorly written claims. For instance: Research Team Of CUNO Making Into Headlines Once Again On Their Remarkable Findings and Running Ahead Of Time, CUNO Has The Highest Number Of Enrolled Students In 2020 Across The Globe.

Russo said COVID and the sudden shift to virtual operations for many aspects of life created a bigger pool for online fraud victims.

People were pushed online in a hurry due to the pandemic, he said. These people were perhaps more susceptible to online scams because they werent as technologically savvy.

A dream deferred

For Masood, the offer at first seemed legitimate. The number of the person who performed the background check matched a number listed on the Oman embassy website, and she even did a virtual onboarding and orientation.

Communications from CUNO included a blue circular logo similar to that used by University of New Orleans with the schools name written around the logo and a building in the middle of the circle. A man she spoke with told her he was an admissions officer; he assured her she would be attending UNO virtually and could begin her three year doctorate degree in nutrition and health sciences whenever she wanted.

But when she tried to begin her studies after moving to Kenya, she was told her acceptance was no longer valid and she would have to pony up more money. She paid a $299 fee to register again, but has since been contacted numerous times asking her to pay more fees. She doesn't have the funds to keep paying and has given up hope of ever getting her money back.

She's never taken a class at CUNO and at this point understands she never will, even after paying more than $2,000.

They latch onto somebodys dream and they know how to use it, said Russo, the cybersecurity expert. They sell you the dream.
Tropical Storm Alex, the first named storm of the 2022 Atlantic hurricane season, formed Sunday morning and is heading toward Bermuda, the National Hurricane Center said.

Alex was officially named around 1 a.m. Sunday when it became a tropical storm off the east coast of Florida.

The system is about 475 miles southwest of Bermuda moving at a speed of 23 mph, the NHC said in a 1 p.m. update. It has maximum sustained winds of 65 mph with higher gusts.

It could strengthen slightly today before beginning to weaken on Monday.

A tropical storm warning is in effect for Bermuda. Two to three inches of rain is forecast there through Monday.

The system will have no impact on southeast Louisiana, the NWS New Orleans said Saturday.

Remnants of Agatha

Alex is a new version of the storm that was called Hurricane Agatha when it slammed into Mexicos Pacific Coast last week, killing at least 11 people and leaving 20 missing. It got a new name once the storm crossed Mexico into the Atlantic basin.

In Cuba, the storm killed three people, damaged dozens of homes in Havana and cut off electricity in some areas, according to authorities. Heavy rainfall continued Saturday, but was diminishing as the weather system moved away from the island.

The system brought heavy rain and wind to parts of southern Florida on Saturday.

Above-average season

Get hurricane updates in your inbox Sign up for updates on storm forecasts, tracks and more. e-mail address * Sign Up

Hurricane season officially runs from June 1 to November 30, but storms can form at anytime.

Forecasters began issuing daily outlooks in May.

The NHC predicts another above-average hurricane season.

Storm names for 2022

Storms are named when they become a tropical storm.

The categories in order of increasing strength are tropical depression, tropical storm and hurricane (categories 1 through 5).

Here is this year's list of storm names for the Atlantic basin:

Alex

Bonnie

Colin

Danielle

Earl

Fiona

Gaston

Hermine

Ian

Julia

Karl

Lisa

Martin

Nicole

Owen

Paula

Richard

Shary

Tobias

Virginie

Walter

Learn more about how storms are named here.

The Associated Press Contributed to this report.

Sign up to get hurricane season updates in your email at nola.com/hurricanecenter.
By Azernews





By Ayya Lmahamad

More and more countries are interested in buying gas from the Southern Gas Corridor pipeline, Azerbaijani State Oil Company Vice-President for Investments and Marketing Elshad Nasirov told the 27th Baku Energy Forum, Azernews reports.

"Currently, it is planned to increase its [the pipeline's] throughput capacity, and at the same time, to increase gas output in the country," he said.

He added that the commissioning of the SGC allowed Azerbaijan to strengthen its role as an exporter of natural gas in the energy market.

TAP possesses all technical capabilities for expansion

Speaking at the forum, TAP's Managing Director Luca Schieppati stated that the pipeline has all the technical capabilities for expansion.

He added that the TAP infrastructure is ready for energy efficiency and the transition to green energy.

"Thanks to TAP, it has become possible to provide the market with a higher level of liquidity against the backdrop of unprecedented high energy prices, he opined.

Trans-Caspian gas pipeline

Trans-Caspian Resources energy startup co-founder and co-head Allan Mustard emphasized that the Trans-Caspian gas pipeline project will open up an opportunity for Turkmen gas to reach the countries of the South Caucasus.

Noting that this pipeline will allow delivering an additional 9-12bn cubic meters of gas per year, he added that the project could be completed within four months. In addition, he stated that this project could also contribute to accelerating the process of reducing emissions.

"Turkmen gas will benefit not only Azerbaijan but also other regional countries," he said.

Additionally, Oxford Institute for Energy Studies senior researcher Gulmira Rzayeva stated that there is a way to increase the supply of Turkmen gas to Turkey within swap operations. In this context, she added that Azerbaijan buys gas from Turkmenistan for local consumption.

"We see the possibility of increasing gas production in Turkmenistan, Turkey, and Azerbaijan, as well as the potential for increasing gas exports to the EU market," she said.
The number of casualties could increase further

by Pimple Barua, Chittagong

At least 37 people have been killed and over 450 injured in a fire caused by an explosion at a private Inland Container Depot (ICD) in Sitakunda upazila in Chittagong.

The fire broke out at BM Container Depot in Kadamrasul area of the upazila on Saturday night.

Chittagong Medical College Hospital (CMCH) Police Outpost Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Alauddin Talukdar told Bangla Tribune: "The bodies have been kept at the morgue."

Istakul Islam, chief of Health & Service Department at Red Crescent Youth Chittagong, told Dhaka Tribune: "Over 450 people have been injured in this incident of which, at least 350 are at CMCH. The death toll could be more at other hospitals.

Chittagong Medical College Hospital (CMCH) Police Outpost Sub-Inspector (SI) Nurul Alam said a fire broke out at the container depot around 9pm.

As Fire Service units worked to put it out, there was an explosion and then the fire spread.

SI Nurul added that initially it was being suspected that the container depot caught fire due to chemicals.

Police, Fire Service and local sources said the fire broke out inside BM Container Depots loading point around 9pm.

Around 11:45pm, there was a massive explosion and the fire spread from one container to another due to the presence of chemicals in one of the containers.

The sources added that the explosion shook the neighbourhood and shattered glasses of windows of nearby houses.

Chittagong Fire Service and Civil Defense Assistant Director Md Faruk Hossain Sikdar said: "Around 19 firefighting units are working to douse the blaze and six ambulances are also available on the spot."

BM Container Depot is set up as an inland container depot which has been operating since May 2011.

Dhaka Tribune
SAFFiRE Sustainable Aviation Fuel Project Earns Government-Industry Boost

The NREL pilot plant has three 9,000-liter fermenters, as well as 1-ton-per-day scale pretreatment capability.

With fuel prices soaring, a new governmentindustry partnership based at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) plans to shift the aviation market further away from oil fields and closer to the farmlands.

The planned 10-ton-per-day pilot plant project, Sustainable Aviation Fuel From [i] Renewable Ethanol, or SAFFiRE, involves D3MAX LLC, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO), Southwest Airlines, NREL, LanzaJet, and other partners. The results could help make the goals of the multiagency Sustainable Aviation Fuel Grand Challenge a reality.

NRELs many years of expertise converting biomass into fuels and chemicals is crucial to SAFFiREs goal of achieving an annual production capacity of 7 billion gallons of sustainable, low-carbon aviation fuel by 2040, said Mark Yancey, project principal investigator (PI), NREL alumnus, and SAFFiRE Renewables CEO.

SAFFiRE is the capstone of several NREL applied science projects, said Michael Himmel, project co-PI and NREL senior research fellow. It plans to turn an agricultural waste product of little valuecorn stoverinto profitable and environmentally friendly fuels. What makes the project so unique is the combination of D3MAXs commercial sugar production and ethanol fermentation technology and NRELs patent-pending deacetylation and mechanical refining process, or DMR.

NRELs DMR alkaline biomass pretreatment step, coupled with enzymes from Novozymes, essentially seeks to solve the problem of how to efficiently break down corn stover waste to sugars that can then be converted to fuels. Unlike acidic pretreatment, DMR operates under low temperature and low pressure, does not produce toxic byproducts, and is therefore more reliable and less expensive than other methods. SAFFiRE could be positioned to take advantage of the infrastructure of more than 200 existing ethanol plants and equipment already found on many farms across the nation.

This process diagram depicts the D3MAX SAFFiRE project for production of sustainable aviation fuels from corn stover using NREL's deacetylation and mechanical refining technology.

Southwest Airlines is thrilled to partner with NREL, DOE, and D3MAX to advance what could be game-changing technology to be used by SAFFiRE, said Michael AuBuchon, senior director Fuel Supply Chain Management at Southwest Airlines. This first-of-its-kind investment for Southwest furthers our commitment to support the commercialization of affordable, lower-carbon SAFon a life-cycle basis compared to conventional jet fuelwhich can help the aviation industry reach its ultimate goal of carbon neutrality by 2050.

NREL scientists already proved the process is effective in the lab and at small pilot scaletechno-economic and life-cycle analysis shows that the SAF from SAFFiRE could be less expensive than petroleum-based jet fuel and could reduce aviation greenhouse gas emissions by up to 84% compared to conventional jet fuel.

Nancy Dowe, the lead fermentation scientist on the project, has worked with Himmel on the project since its inception. NREL researcher Xiaowen Chen, the lead pretreatment process engineer, was a key innovator of the DMR process along with Himmel, Melvin Tucker, and Rick Elander. Tucker and Elander are both recently retired from NREL.

"In the next 3 1/2 years we will work to demonstrate that this technology is ready for commercialization, Himmel said.

Lincolnway Energy, a corn ethanol plant located in Nevada, Iowa, plans to host the SAFFiRE pilot project. Integration of the SAFFiRE process with existing ethanol plants is a key aspect of our commercialization plan, Yancey said. SAFFiREs plan is to ship the finished renewable ethanol product to LanzaJets alcohol-to-jet facility in Georgia where it will be converted to SAF. The goal is that the SAF could be used to fuel future Southwest Airlines flights.

Funds were initially provided in 2021 through BETOs Scale-up Funding Opportunity. The recent addition of a 50% investment match from Southwest Airlines could help speed up the steps to get from large-scale pilot testing to market, thus making the commercial production of SAF from biomass more likely in the not-so-distant future.

Learn more about NRELs net-zero-emission biofuels research.
India increased its purchases of crude oil from Russia while giving a new meaning to the old treaty deal with Russia (then the Soviet Union) in local currencies. India is trying to sustain the monopoly on fuel trading in South Asia and beyond. Sri Lanka, on the other hand, breaks its ties and spits in the face of a genuine friend who supports her in times of trouble. Who is manipulating whom?

Editorial

We as a country would be exceptionally lucky if all Sri Lankan Courts could be so effective and efficient in dealing with other illegal activities in Sri Lanka as they did in detaining Russian aircraft recently. The man who claims to be the richest man in Sri Lanka is a swindler who is evading a large amount of taxes due to the government. The irony is, that they are the ones who come up with solutions to the economic crisis facing Sri Lanka today. But none of these commercial courts or so-called law firms will come forward to enforce the law against such thieves. But the courts in Sri Lanka, as well as a so-called law firm, are busy trying to bring justice to an Irish company against Russia on Sri Lankan land. The way lawyers act in many jurisdictions shows that what matters to many of them is money, not ethical principles and moral values that need to be profoundly established in the administration of justice.

Rissian President Putin meeting with then the President of Sri Lanka Maithripala Sirisena.

A local law firm representing an Irish company initiated the legal action within hours of the Russian plane taking off for Sri Lanka. It chooses economically battered Sri Lanka as the jurisdiction and prevents the Russian plane from flying back to Russia. The Russian plane was scheduled to return to Russia within two hours of its arrival in Sri Lanka. All this legal procedure has taken place in that short period of time.

This incident, however, seriously calls into question the principles that a friendly country should protect in foreign policy. But this is not how Sri Lanka has behaved in the past. A known example is the 1971 Indo-Pakistani war. There was a clear policy that was explained and implemented from the Sri Lankan side. In line with that policy, Sri Lanka supported Pakistan and allowed the Pakistani military to use Sri Lankan airspace and airports for refuelling. Despite strong objections from India, Sri Lanka has not changed its stance. But those direct and clear policies were later severely eroded by internal political infighting and opportunist conspiracies.

What we have to say is that our reliable friend should not be ridiculed and despised in order to achieve the aims of the buccaneers. Russia is a genuine partner which sincerely supported many of the country's troubled times since independence. It is a travesty of fate that Sri Lanka is damaging this priceless friendship while India is strengthening its Russian friendship day by day. That is why the political leadership must own the prophetic vision to intervene to resolve such diplomatic disputes. At the same time, policymakers and their enforcers must have a clear policy when dealing with a foreign country. So-called law firms should not be allowed to belittle the profits of those policy loopholes.

India was heavily influenced by various Western countries to stop buying crude oil from Russia. Instead, India increased its purchases of crude oil from Russia. India gave a new meaning to the old treaty deal with Russia (then the Soviet Union) in local currencies. India is trying to sustain the monopoly on fuel trading in South Asia and beyond. Sri Lanka, on the other hand, breaks its ties and spits in the face of a genuine friend who supports her in times of trouble. This is the nature of the destruction to the state when those who betray anything for money manipulate the country's major institutions at will. Should we not be ashamed?
Franciscan Health Senior Promise, a program serving residents 55 and up, is offering a Strawberry Festival and road trips via charter bus this summer.

Seniors can sign up for the membership program, which has more than 30,000 members across the state. It offers Medicare, insurance advice and other benefits.

"The good, old summertime offers fresh air and celebrations. And thats exactly what Franciscan Health Senior Promise will provide to the public throughout Indiana in June," Franciscan Health said in a news release. "The Strawberry Festivals provide strawberry shortcake, ice cream and the opportunity for fellowship."

Franciscan Health Crown Point will host a festival from 12:30-2:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 16 at Bulldog Park at 183 S. West St. in Crown Point. It's free and open to the public.

The health care system, which has the largest footprint in Northwest Indiana, also will take Senior Promise members on bus trips. It will take charter buses to French Lick for shopping, dining and gambling on June 28, to Kentucky for the Ark Encounter museum on July 13 and to Beef and Boards Theater in Indianapolis for "The Honky Tonk Angels" on July 27.

For more information, call 317-528-8277.

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Walmart is adding four new fulfillment centers to its existing capacity, a move that will bring more than 4,000 jobs and make next- or two-day shipping available to more Americans.

The first next generation fulfillment center will open over the summer in Joliet, Illinois. Another one will open next spring in McCordsville, Indiana, 20 miles northeast of Indianapolis. A third one is set to open in 2024 in Greencastle, Pennsylvania.

The announcement comes at a time when consumers are relying on packages being shipped to their homes more than ever before. While online ordering has continued to increase over the years, the pandemic saw a huge surge in such orders as Americans stayed home during lockdowns and had essential items and other goods delivered to their doors. While coronavirus restrictions have eased, many consumers' online ordering habits remain.

Aside from a growth in online orders, Walmart and other retailers are trying to make sure that their shipping speed keeps pace with rival Amazon, which offers same-day, one-day and two-day delivery options for those who pay for its Prime membership.

Walmart said Friday that its four next generation fulfillment centers will be built over the next three years. The centers, which feature robotics and machine learning, double the capacity and number of orders allowed to be fulfilled in a day. The four fulfillment centers will be able to provide 75% of the U.S. population with next- or two-day shipping on millions of items, including Marketplace items shipped by Walmart fulfillment services.

When combined with its traditional fulfillment centers, Walmart said it can reach 95% of the U.S. population with next- or two-day shipping. The company can offer same-day delivery to 80% of the U.S. population when using the inventory and capabilities available at its stores.

Walmart currently has 31 dedicated eCommerce fulfillment centers, 4,700 stores and 210 distribution centers.

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CROWN POINT  A Wheaton, Illinois, man was placed on probation last week for 1 1/2 years after pleading guilty in connection with allegations he seriously injured an Indiana State Police trooper when he plowed into the trooper's car while driving drunk.

Cameron D. Geweniger, 32, admitted to resisting law enforcement, a level 6 felony, and reckless driving, a class A misdemeanor.

In exchange for his pleas, Lake County prosecutors agreed to dismiss one felony and five misdemeanor counts of operating while intoxicated.

Geweniger, who appeared before Lake Criminal Court Judge Samuel Cappas with defense attorney Steven Mullins, agreed to serve 80 hours of community service and successfully complete a substance abuse program.

Cappas accepted his plea and sentenced him to one year in jail for resisting law enforcement and six months for reckless driving, all suspended in favor of probation.

According to charging documents, Trooper Corey Adam was dispatched April 28, 2020, to a single-car crash on westbound Interstate 80/94, about a quarter mile east of Burr Street.

He located a black Mercedes Benz that had struck a center median wall and come to rest partially in the left and left-center lane, police said.

Adam parked his marked Dodge Charger, with emergency lights on, behind the Mercedes. Troopers Dennis Griffin and Israel Rosillo parked farther behind Adam's patrol car with emergency lights on and activated about 15 flares in the road.

As the troopers were investigating, Griffin noticed a 2004 Chevrolet SUV speeding toward them in the left-center lane and attempted to yell to Adam to warn him. The SUV's driver, Geweniger, struck Adam's car, causing it to hit the Mercedes and the median wall, police said.

Rosillo was able to jump over the median barrier to avoid being stuck by Adams' patrol car.

Griffin and Rosillo were able to extricate Adam, who was in the driver's seat at the time of the crash, as his car leaked gasoline, police said.

The driver of the Mercedes was sitting in a different state police vehicle waiting for a tow truck and was unharmed.

Adam was taken to Methodist Hospitals Northlake Campus in Gary with serious injuries. Police said shortly after the crash he was expected to make a full recovery.

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GARY  When it comes to raising a child, Jaunesia Davis believes it does in fact take a village, which is why she created a local organization providing support for families caring for children with autism.

Attendees gathered Saturday afternoon at the Gary Health Department, where the parking lot was transformed into a block party hosted by Davis' foundation, We Are The Village Inc.

Davis, of Gary, created the Autism Acceptance Block Party to honor her son, 8-year-old Deyaire Davis, who has autism.

"Deyaire was diagnosed when he was 3 years old," Davis said. "That's when I noticed there is not enough resources out there, which is why I created We Are The Village. We offer development therapy and speech therapy at no cost to the parents, which is why we have been called a parent's local lifesaver."

The City of Gary, Gary Health Department and Edgewater Health collaborated to help bring the event to life, with several local businesses sponsoring it.

While the event offered music, food, giveaways, bouncy houses and activities, Davis said the most important part of it was sending the message that families are not alone.

"When he was diagnosed it was challenging, I felt like I was alone," Davis said. "But we are here to let parents know they are not alone."

Jonale Terry, of Gary, enjoyed the party with her sons Jeff, 2, and Sier, 3.

"Sier has autism, so I have been looking for more resources for him," Terry said. "It's important on the part of the kids so they can have resources and as a parent, I know I am not alone."

Terry said it was tough finding local services after her son was diagnosed, but things are looking up for the young family.

"I've been looking for therapy for him, and I found therapists here with no waitlist, so I am just happy there's something like this," Terry said.

Davis said that since she began the organization two years ago, she was shocked at how many parents reached out for help. She said she gets calls and messages every day from families. She said few resources and high costs make a challenging situation even harder.

"It's very difficult to pay for those services, but we can make it work so we can provide what the children deserve," Davis said.

Cashawn Ellis is a co-partner with her sister Cara Wilson at the Howard Intervention Center, which is a developmental center for autism and offers applied behavior analysis therapy with locations in Munster and Matteson, Illinois.

"There isn't a lot of resources out there," Ellis said. "A lot of parents don't have an outlet to be there for them. They need to be able to band together. ... We have been working to reach out to the community because they don't know how to reach out to us. They don't know we are there until we knock on their door."

The block party has been the third event for We Are The Village, with attendance growing at each turn, Davis said.

As for Deyaire Davis, she said that with the help of a family support system, he has grown into an active, happy second-grader who just won a school competition for "best dancer."

"At 3 years old he was diagnosed as nonverbal," Davis said. "Now he is talking, reading, writing  all the things they said he would never do. He's very energetic. He has really defied all odds."

We Are The Village Inc. is located inside the Gary Middle College facility at 4030 West Fifth Avenue. The organization offers daycare and early learning with special services for students with special needs.

For more information about We Are The Village Inc., individuals can visit wearethevillageinc.com, go to their Facebook page or call 219-777-8170.

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CEDAR LAKE  Two are dead following a crash late Saturday morning in Cedar Lake, with others injured.

First responders were called at 11:30 a.m. to a crash on U.S. 41 next to Uncle John's Flea Market, at 15205 Wicker Ave., said Lake County Sheriff Oscar Martinez Jr.

Police said a car was traveling south on U.S. 41 when it attempted to cross northbound traffic to turn into the flea market. The car was then hit by a minivan that was heading north on U.S. 41.

All four individuals inside the car were taken to local hospitals, and the driver was later airlifted to the University of Chicago.

Two individuals have been pronounced dead from their injuries. Their identities have not yet been released pending family notification.

One of the car's occupants is an 11-year-old girl who is awake and in stable condition at the hospital.

The driver of the minivan was treated and released at the scene.

The crash is under continued investigation by the Lake County Reconstruction Unit.

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MICHIGAN CITY  The likelihood of a $1 million gift for extending sewers to Long Beach means rates and fees for the project are being recalculated.

The State Revolving Fund is offering $1 million in loan forgiveness, Michigan City Sanitary District attorney James Meyer told its board Thursday.

Its extremely unusual for them to grant $1 million of forgiveness on a typical loan for a project like this, he said. They see a significant environmental benefit to Lake Michigan.

That grant isnt guaranteed, Meyer warned. We should know about this $1 million grant sometime by the end of this month.

The board voted unanimously to affirm support for the project while awaiting revised resolutions for the rates and fees.

Using a worst-case scenario, the board had been expecting property owners on Lakeshore Drive in Long Beach to pay $248 a month to pay for the sewer extension. Three lift stations are included in the $13 million worst-case estimate. The engineers estimate was pegged at $10 million.

Thursdays Sanitary Board meeting wasnt a public hearing, so frustrated audience members didnt have a voice at the meeting.

At Tuesdays special City Council meeting to discuss the project, Mayor Duane Parry expressed his hope that either the council or the Sanitary Board would put the brakes on the sewer expansion project. That would allow Long Beach residents to negotiate better terms with their Town Council, Parry said.

Eleven of the homes on Lakeshore Drive have failed septic systems and must have the septic tanks pumped frequently.

City Councilwoman Dalia Zygas, D-at-large, said Tuesday she supports the project.

Our drinking water is affected by this, she said. We do not want to have increasing septic seepage.

Some of the septic systems might be failing but undetected. Just because you flushed the toilet doesnt mean it is working fine, Zygas said.

Her other selling point for the project is the citys financial liability if the Long Beach project fails. The city has already paid hundreds of thousands of dollars for engineering work for the project.

I feel that we are going to have some kind of financial problem if we do not go forward with this project.

Its possible the City Council could give its approval for the financing June 7. More likely, however, would be to give final approval on or after June 21.

The State Revolving Fund extended the deadline to close this deal until the end of July. Previously, it had been the end of June.

Long Beach Councilman John Wall said the council has done all it can do to lower the cost of the project.

Bradley Martin, one of the affected Long Beach property owners asked whether Lakeshore Drive residents would have to share in the cost of extending sewers if the rest of Long Beach eventually is supposed to get service.

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VALPARAISO  The Salvation Army of Porter County has just wrapped up the third session of its youth archery program.

Kids ages 7-17 learned the rules of archery such as whistle commands, timing of when and how to shoot, and proper field discipline for safety.

These skills were taught by Porter County Salvation Army Lts. Chris and Abby Nicolai, who are National Archer in the Schools Program (NASP) certified.

Bass Pro Shops of Portage awarded The Salvation Army a grant that helped buy bows and arrows, targets and accessories.

Everyone who participated in the archery program earned trophies and certificates and celebrated at a pizza party after the presentation.

In addition to archery for the south programs, The Salvation Army has free music lessons, vacation bible school and summer camp at Pine Island.

Music lessons teach piano, guitar and music theory with one-on-one tutoring. The music offerings begin again Sept. 6 and the archery, Sept. 8.

Vacation bible school and overnight summer camp at Pine Island are offered for the summer. These programs are free to kids ages 7-17 due to the generosity of donors.

Keep an eye on the Facebook page and website for updates: Facebook.com/SAPorterCounty, www.saportercounty.org. To sign up or for more information please call the office at 219-762-9191.

The Salvation Army of Porter County offers social services such as food pantry, daily bread, emergency services, rent and utility assistance, Ukraine aid and much more.

For help call 219-762-9191 for the office at 799 Capitol Road.

Church services are at 10 a.m. Sundays with coffee and fellowship and the worship service at 11 a.m.

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INDIANAPOLIS  Merriam-Webster defines "atrocity" as a "a shockingly bad or atrocious act, object, or situation." In a different era, the word "atrocity" was used mostly in wartime situations, be it Babyn Yar in Kyiv, the Katyn Forest massacre in Poland, the Andersonville Prison during the American Civil War, or My Lai in Vietnam.

But since 1999 following the first modern mass school shooting at Columbine High School, I've been using words like "atrocity" and "massacre" to describe everyday American places: Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut, the Pulse night club in Orlando, the FedEx facility here in Indy, Tops Friendly Market in Buffalo, and now Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas.

America, obviously, has a gun problem, as well as a mental health dilemma. School massacres have gone from about 25 annually in 2000 to 236 in 2021 and more than 135 so far this year.

Since the pandemic hit in 2020, Americans have bought 40 million guns. Pew Research reports that the U.S. murder rate rose 30% between 2019 and 2020  the largest single-year increase in more than a century, according to data published this month by the CDC. There were 7.8 homicides for every 100,000 people in the United States in 2020, up from six homicides per 100,000 people the year before. According to the FBI, there were 21,570 murders last year, up 29% from 16,669 in 2019 and the highest annual total since 1995.

A majority of the of these school rampages were done with AR-15s, a gun designed for military combat. The 18-year-old Uvalde terrorist legally purchased two AR-15s, though he wasn't old enough to buy a beer.

The Wall Street Journal editorial board observed: The recent proliferation of mass shootings suggests a deeper malady than gun laws can fix. Firearm laws were few and weak before the 1970s. Yet only in recent decades have young men entered schools and supermarkets for the purpose of killing the innocent. That a teenager could look at a nine-year-old, aim a gun, and pull the trigger signals some larger social and cultural breakdown.

The leading cause of death among American children is now guns, according to Axios. Indiana ranks 7th in the U.S. with 8.7 deaths per 100,000. Nearly two-thirds of the 4,368 U.S. youths up to age 19 who were killed by guns in 2020 were homicide victims (car crashes killed less than 4,000).

How should we respond?

A recent CBS News poll found 54% of Americans want laws covering the sale of guns; 30% believe gun laws should be kept as they are, and 16% want them to be less strict. A Politico/Morning Consult poll conducted entirely after the Uvalde massacre found 88% support requiring background checks for all gun sales (22% of guns are acquired without one); 75% back a national database; 67% favor banning assault rifles; 84% back blocking gun sales to those documented to be mentally ill.

Gov. Eric Holcomb said Wednesday that the focus should be on school safety, even though the Uvalde and Buffalo atrocities were perpetrated with security guards on the premises.

We have the means and we have the financial wherewithal to make sure that our schools maintain their integrity. That means one port of entry. Thats why we make sure they have wands, if needed, Holcomb said.

You might call it hardening them when children are in the classrooms," he said. "Were not going to, I believe, in the State of Indiana, take steps to restrict individuals who lawfully can purchase a gun, for sport or defense for themselves."

There are some common sense policy and manufacturing steps. If I lose my cellphone, it's useless to anyone who finds it. Why can't we make guns requiring a fingerprint? Or banning gun purchases for those under age 21? Or prohibit those guilty of domestic violence from legally purchasing a gun? Or require background checks for those buying ammunition?

While the new Indiana congressional maps have created nine uncompetitive districts, there is a race for the U.S. Senate.

Republican U.S. Sen. Todd Young reacted to the latest Texas atrocity, saying, I am deeply saddened by the horrific shooting at an elementary school in Texas. Our nation mourns the innocent lives taken in this senseless tragedy, and my heart breaks for everyone who lost a loved one. They deserve answers on how and why this terrible event took place. All children and teachers deserve a safe and welcoming environment in our schools. While we dont yet know if it could have had an impact in this situation, enforceable red flag laws give local law enforcement a better chance at stopping senseless attacks."

His Democratic opponent, Hammond Mayor Thomas McDermott Jr., said, Todd Young has done nothing since Sandy Hook. Young has done nothing since Pulse, Parkland, Indianapolis, Buffalo, and now Uvalde  and thousands of Americans have lost their lives. As we grieve the loss of our students and teachers in Texas, Todd Young is sitting in his office collecting donation after donation from the NRA to keep the status quo  all while wishing for thoughts and prayers in hollow statements. Senator, its time to act or get out of Washington for those  like me  who do want to stop this violence and save our loved ones lives.

It's time for this debate, as we await the next (inevitable) American atrocity.

Brian Howey is publisher of Howey Politics Indiana. Follow him on Twitter @hwypol. The opinions are the writer's.

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When children, out of natural curiosity, touch a hot stove burner, they learn very quickly never to do that again.

As I see several states contemplating prescription drug importation plans and having conversations with the Food and Drug Administration about arranging wholesale drug imports from Canada, I find myself wishing that these state officials had a childs capacity for self-protection and a determination to prevent themselves  and, more important, their citizens  from getting repeatedly burned.

Eight years ago, Maine legalized foreign drug importation. Acting as president of the Maine Pharmacy Association, I bought three popular medications  a blood thinner, an anti-inflammatory medicine and a pill for acid reflux  from an entity representing itself as a Canadian pharmacy. I did not receive the name-brand drugs I had ordered, but rather generic versions that originated not from Canada, but from India, Turkey and Mauritius, respectively.

In testing the drugs, I found that the blood thinner had only 58% of the stated dose, the anti-inflammatory only 77% of a standard dose, and the acid reflux medicine contained an unknown contaminant. None of the three medicines sent to me were FDA approved nor were they approved for use in Canada.

There was nothing Maine could do to sanction the sellers. After years of work by the Department of Justice, the sellers were charged in federal court for distributing misbranded medications and money laundering. They pleaded guilty.

And now there are public officials across the country who are reaching to touch that hot burner once again, even though the danger is evident.

We are in the midst of a global counterfeit drug crisis. Throughout the world, people are taking medicines they believe are legitimate but that, at best, dont contain the active ingredients they need for their health conditions and, at worst, contain deadly contaminants like fentanyl. And the problem extends beyond just drugs. In June, the Department of Homeland Security seized more than 2 million face masks bought by Maine. State officials thought they were getting 3M-manufactured masks made in the U.S. or Canada. Instead, they were fakes peddled by a company in Hong Kong.

The idea that we can safely buy prescription drugs from Canada is a fallacy. Logic tells us that it cant be done without risking public health. First, virtually no medicines consumed by Canadians are made in Canada. Canada must buy its drugs from other sources and, because the country has no production capacity of its own, Canada frequently faces shortages. The government has barred the nations wholesalers from selling to states like Maine and Florida because it doesnt have enough for its own people. That would leave Maine residents relying upon whatever bulk drug shipments the state could scrounge from sketchy vendors.

I understand the desire to reduce patients out-of-pocket costs, but not only would importation schemes endanger patients, they would have no meaningful effect on patients wallets. There are better options, like investigating flaws in the prescription drug supply chain that enable middlemen to pocket negotiated rebates and discounts instead of using those savings to lower costs for consumers.

The idea, though, that wholesale drug importation from foreign countries, like Canada, is our miracle solution for high healthcare costs is a fools errand. Having tested these imported drugs myself, I certainly wouldnt allow my patients or family to take them and neither should anyone else. Maine has touched that hot burner once. Why would we do it again?

Kenneth McCall is past president of the Maine Pharmacy Association. He wrote this for InsideSources.com. The opinions are the writer's.

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Abbott Nutrition, the company that fueled a national shortage of baby formula when it shut down a leading production plant in February because of contamination concerns, said on Saturday that the site has restarted producing EleCare and other formulas.

The restarting of the plant in Sturgis, Mich., which was the result of an agreement with the federal Food and Drug Administration, renewed hope that the formula shortage that has sent stressed parents scrambling would ease.

Out-of-stock rates had soared to about 74 percent at stores across the country as of the week ending May 28, according to Datasembly, which tracks retail data. The crisis, which had been building for months and stems from pandemic supply issues, was worsened by the plants closure.

In a statement, Abbott said EleCare would be released to consumers around June 20 and that it was working hard to restart production of Similac and other formulas.
Dancer was released the same year as Kramers brazen satire, Faggots; both were cautionary tales about the moth-to-flame nature of gay nightlife, and both reach their climax on Fire Island. But where Kramer was polemical, Holleran was poetic  more quietly political, Kushner said, but political nevertheless as a pioneer in literature for a post-Stonewall age.

I dont believe that Larrys work was inferior in any way, Kushner continued, but in Dancer theres a certain sense of confusion about how a community is formed out of this particularly crooked timber of humanity, which I think was a big question back then.

Holleran was surprised by the attention that the book received. Today, Johnson said, it amounts to our Catcher in the Rye, the book you read when youre young. But since its publication, Holleran has been more talked about than seen. Widely described as likable, quite funny and seemingly immune to literary feuds, he is also intensely shy. He was relieved to learn that the pandemic would limit the amount of publicity hed have to do for The Kingdom of Sand.

Edmund White, a fellow elder statesman of gay literature  and, like Holleran, a member of the Violet Quill, an informal collective during the 1970s  called him rabbity. Hell kind of appear and then disappear, White added. And if you get too close to him, he gets kind of nervous. In New York, he was very much part of the Fire Island scene, and I used to see him years ago at the gay baths. But he wouldnt be having sex; he would just observe.

Over the decades, Holleran dipped in and out of the city, on his terms. His family had moved to Florida in the early 1960s, to the small town outside Gainesville where he lives now. We never understood why my father chose this place, he said. But Ive been here off and on ever since. Its a long time; for Florida, thats like three ice ages.

He had also built a life as a writing teacher at American University in Washington  a very married city, as he described it, where he mostly just went to the National Gallery of Art and the gym  but the pandemic has lately kept him limited to Florida. He could have left permanently at any time before that, but never did. Writing The Kingdom of Sand, he said, was something of an exercise in figuring out a reason.
HOUSTON  When President Biden meets Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Saudi Arabia, he will be following in the footsteps of presidents like Jimmy Carter, who flew to Tehran in 1977 to exchange toasts with the shah of Iran on New Years Eve.

Like the prince, the shah was an unelected monarch with a tarnished human rights record. But Mr. Carter was obliged to celebrate with him for a cause that was of great concern to people back home: cheaper gasoline and secure oil supplies.

As Mr. Carter and other presidents learned, Mr. Biden has precious few tools to bring down costs at the pump, especially when Russia, one of the worlds largest energy producers, has started an unprovoked war against a smaller neighbor. In Mr. Carters time, oil supplies that Western countries needed were threatened by revolutions in the Middle East.

During the 2020 campaign, Mr. Biden pledged to turn Saudi Arabia into a pariah for the assassination of a prominent dissident, Jamal Khashoggi. But officials said last week that he planned to visit the kingdom this summer. It was just the latest sign that oil has again regained its centrality in geopolitics.
CNNs ubiquitous Breaking News banner is gone, now reserved for instances of truly urgent events. Snarky on-screen captions  Angry Trump Turns Briefing Into Propaganda Session, for instance  are discouraged. Political shows are trying to book more conservative voices, and producers have been urged to ignore Twitter backlash from the far right and the far left.

A month into his tenure as the new leader of CNN, Chris Licht is starting to leave his mark on the 24-hour news network he inherited in May from its prominent former president, Jeff Zucker. So far, the Licht Doctrine is a change from the Zucker days: less hype, more nuance and a redoubled effort to reach viewers of all stripes.

Running a network is a new challenge for Mr. Licht, a 50-year-old lifelong producer who has never led an organization as big as CNN. (His last employer, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, had a staff of about 200 people; CNN has roughly 4,000.) Some CNN journalists say they wonder if he can navigate a sprawling, unwieldy global news network past what has been a no good, very bad year.

In December, the anchor Chris Cuomo was fired for ethical lapses, prompting an investigation that ultimately led to Mr. Zuckers ouster in February over an undisclosed relationship with a co-worker. Then, in April, the networks new owners, Warner Bros. Discovery, shut down the streaming platform CNN+ weeks after its $300 million debut. On the same day, Mr. Licht announced the prospect of hundreds of layoffs in his first formal address to staff.
On the January evening when the superintendent introduced staff from Generations Family Health Center, the nonprofit health care group that was to provide services in the school, the visitors peered out of Zoom screens with cheery smiles.

The plan was for licensed therapists from Generations to work in a space on the schools third floor. Students could be referred by teachers or family members, or could come in themselves, and therapy sessions would be scheduled during school hours. Therapists would bill insurance based on a sliding fee scale, using federal funds if necessary, so there would be no cost to the school and little, if any, to the families.

Then a chill entered the room as the board members began peppering them with questions. The visitors smiles faded.

Would they advise students on birth control or abortion? (They wouldnt give medical advice, but might discuss if it comes up.) If children were referred and didnt want therapy, would they be forced to do it? (No.) Would students be seen by peers going into treatment, exposing them to ridicule and stigma? (Hopefully not.) Could they get therapy without their parents knowing about it?

Conceivably, yes, was the answer. By law, clinicians in Connecticut can provide six sessions of mental health treatment to minors without parental consent under a narrow set of circumstances  if the minor sought treatment, it was deemed clinically necessary and if requiring parental notification would deter the minor from receiving it.

This provision is used rarely; in the nearby town of Putnam, which has hosted a school-based mental health clinic for nine years, treating hundreds of students, no child has ever been treated without parental permission, said Michael Morrill, a Putnam school board member.

But it was a major sticking point for Norm Ferron, one of the Killingly board members, who said the arrangement would give a student a lot more access to counseling without seeking parental approval, and Im not real keen on that.
It was a small trial, just 18 rectal cancer patients, every one of whom took the same drug.

But the results were astonishing. The cancer vanished in every single patient, undetectable by physical exam, endoscopy, PET scans or M.R.I. scans.

Dr. Luis A. Diaz Jr. of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, an author of a paper published Sunday in the New England Journal of Medicine describing the results, which were sponsored by the drug company GlaxoSmithKline, said he knew of no other study in which a treatment completely obliterated a cancer in every patient.

I believe this is the first time this has happened in the history of cancer, Dr. Diaz said.

Dr. Alan P. Venook, a colorectal cancer specialist at the University of California, San Francisco, who was not involved with the study, said he also thought this was a first.

A complete remission in every single patient is unheard-of, he said.

These rectal cancer patients had faced grueling treatments  chemotherapy, radiation and, most likely, life-altering surgery that could result in bowel, urinary and sexual dysfunction. Some would need colostomy bags.
The boy made his threat aboard a school bus.

In late March, a 16-year-old in Suffolk County, N.Y., 60 miles east of New York City, told fellow students that he wanted to shoot their heads off, according to court records. He told the police that he wanted to hurt himself with a shotgun at his house.

What followed happens more often in Suffolk County than any other county in the state: A judge issued a red flag order that would allow authorities to take weapons from the home. The police filed an application to remove the boys access to guns. The judge acted after finding that he posed a danger. Two shotguns were taken. The judge later wrote that the boy admitted that not having the shotguns in the home is helpful to him.

In the wake of horrific mass shootings at a Buffalo supermarket, a Texas school and an Oklahoma hospital, many policymakers are grasping for ways to keep guns out of hands of people in crisis.

On Thursday, President Biden implored Congress to pass a federal red flag law, though such measures face stiff resistance from Republicans who contend the red flag process can be abused to take away an innocent persons fundamental right to own guns. There are also negotiations in Washington on offering incentives for more states to pass red flag laws  New York is one of 19 that has one, along with the District of Columbia.
When I got my first full-time job at The Detroit News, I decided that it wasnt enough to learn to do my job, I needed to learn every job connected to mine. There were researchers in the graphics department. I made them an offer: I would get their lunches and run their errands if they would let me watch them work. They never asked me to do the menial tasks, but they did let me watch them work with sources and even pitch in. I was working two shifts every day  one for free and one for pay  but the experience I gained was invaluable.

This suited me. I wouldnt call myself a workaholic, but I like my work, and I was young. Young people should work as hard as possible because there will come a time when the aging body simply cant handle it.

Find your workplace tribe.

The Times I arrived at 30 years ago is a far cry from The Times of today. I once heard it described as a knife fight among valedictorians, with managers who were mean and who seemed to have been rewarded for being so.

That kind of hostile work environment would never be tolerated at The Times today, but if you ever find yourself in such a situation, remember, youre probably not alone. Anywhere you go, you have to find your workplace tribe  the other earnest, good-natured employees who can be your sounding board and source of support.

Hopefully we are all coming to understand that the skulduggery of office politics is unfair, unnecessary and creates a counterproductive environment. But with help from my tribe, I survived that period, and I have to admit, I thrived. It was sport to me. I never picked a fight, but I never ran from one.

Everyone you work with or for is a reference.

It is estimated that up to 80 percent of job listings are never posted. Often, someone looking to hire simply asks trusted people if they know of a good candidate. When those opportunities arise, you want your name to be at the top of their mind  as someone smart, collegial and hard working. This is why you must give your all in every job you have, no matter how small, no matter if it has nothing to do with your ultimate career and ambitions. And you must treat everyone around you with respect. Because anyone who knows you could give you a reference, without you being the wiser.

No one cares about your disadvantages. Overcome them.

I didnt go to an elite boarding school or an Ivy League college, but many of the people whom I would work with did, and many of the people I would compete with did. I resolved early on that I would have to compensate, as much as I could, for any deficiencies in my educational pedigree. I read the classics that had never been assigned to me and as many new books as possible. I watched documentaries nonstop as well as the news. I visited museums and took classes if time permitted. I told myself that no one would ever make a reference to The Merchant of Venice again without me understanding it.
Why is the court going beyond calling balls and strikes, as Chief Justice John Roberts memorably described his role, to take a case it arguably doesnt have jurisdiction to hear? Some of the courts conservatives seem eager to assist polluting industries by undercutting the power of agencies to regulate in the public interest. More specifically, certain justices have signaled their interest in sharply limiting the E.P.A.s authority to regulate greenhouse gas emissions in the West Virginia case by invoking and expanding a major questions doctrine. That doctrine invites unelected judges to second-guess Congress when lawmakers give an agency the authority to regulate on matters that have major political or economic significance.

Agencies need latitude to regulate in a world of novel problems and scientific complexity. Congress routinely gives them expansive authority through broadly-worded statutes. And Congress puts its own limits on agency discretion. Laws like the Administrative Procedure Act require that agency actions be consistent with science and informed by public input. Further, Congress has ample tools to get a wayward agency back on track: confirmation and oversight hearings, budget instructions, or even statutory amendments if necessary.

Expanding the major questions doctrine would destabilize this legislative balance and shift power to the courts. The doctrine would leave agencies with little power to tackle new and pressing environmental problems like climate change without a steady stream of statutory instructions at a degree of detail that an inexpert and political entity like Congress is unequipped to provide. Worse, the doctrine is uncertain and manipulable. Even conservative justices struggle to define what triggers a major question review. Virtually any environmental regulation worth issuing has major impacts on some industry, so the doctrine invites polluters to challenge regulations and gives sympathetic judges a potent tool for striking them down.

Even more concerning, West Virginia v. E.P.A. may be only the beginning. In its next term, the Supreme Court will likely take up another important environmental case: Sackett v. E.P.A., which concerns the geographic reach of the Clean Water Act.

Once again, the court agreed to take up a case it would normally have declined: Appeals courts have consistently agreed on the scope of the statute relevant to the Sackett case, and the E.P.A. and the Army Corps of Engineers will likely soon finalize a new proposed rule to provide further clarity on how the law should work. So again, the court appears to be reaching out aggressively to hear a case that could advance a deregulatory policy agenda: restricting the scope of one of the countrys most important environmental laws, administered by an agency mandated to protect the public health and environment.
J.M.: I think most professors care about their students both academically and personally, and some manage to break through the anonymity of large classes and forge personal connections. That is certainly Dr. Walshs goal. I want [students] to be successful in my course. I want them to learn and engage, she told me. But with the mass absences of the past academic year, she said, its been a struggle to do that.

Colleges were only able to function at all early in the pandemic because faculty members and staff took on an unsustainable burden of extra work. To give students personal attention, faculty members need reasonable workloads, including smaller classes, which means universities need to hire more full-time faculty members.

To justify greater public spending, universities must convince the public that higher education is more than a pathway to students individual economic success. College is at least partly a public good, because well-educated and highly-skilled people enrich society both economically and culturally. Student loan forgiveness is one way to acknowledge this fact.

Reality check: the pandemic isnt over

Steven McCornack, East Lansing, Mich.: I wonder whether the author has actually talked with his students about why they are disengaged and absent. I dont presume to know about his students, but mine were absent because they were working two to three jobs to cover their familys expenses, because their parents were unemployed, disabled or dead. My students were Zooming from hospital bedsides, with dying grandparents; being full-time caregivers with family members in hospices, or in emergency rooms awaiting their own admission for low oxygen levels. Reality check: The pandemic isnt over! Why do we persist in treating all that we currently are experiencing with denialism, or view the traumas students are still experiencing as something incidental from the past, that they need to now get over? More importantly, how will increasing standards address student PTSD, grief, illness and support of family members?

J.M.: As important as higher education is, some things are more important. People facing health and family crises or who need to work long hours might not have the spare time and focus to be full-time students. They might be better able to care for themselves and others if they take fewer classes, or dont enroll at all, until they are in position to get the most out of college: not just a degree, but an education.

But the economic value of a degree can put pressure on students to stay enrolled even when other needs are more urgent; another year without graduating is also another year with lower average earnings. In addition, universities often make financial aid contingent on studying full time; federal loan programs require half-time enrollment. These rules may need to change so more students can learn effectively while advancing toward a degree at a manageable pace. Universal preschool and affordable child care would also help students who are parents.

My son has made no close friends at college

Julie, Rhode Island: Parent here, of a student who just finished sophomore year. A lot of these kids are disengaged because they were completely isolated their freshman year. My son has made no close friends at college. His first year there, classes were online, the dining halls were closed, there were no in-person extracurriculars, dorm lounges were closed and students were not allowed to have other students in their rooms. He had little opportunity to get to know other students.
Muscat Municipality has awarded a contract for the design and construction of a dual carriageway which extends from the roundabout of Khoud district 6 to the traffic light intersection located in front of gate No. (2) of the Sultan Qaboos University.

The scope of work includes developing two lanes in each direction, with a total length of 3.5 km, accompanied by side lanes for pedestrians in both directions running 7 km long as well as installation of side barriers and water crossings, reported Times Of Oman.

Also as per the contract, the existing roundabout at the sixth district of Al Khoud will be converted into a four-way intersection with light signals, in addition to the setting up a new intersection with light signals in front of the entrance leading to the Sultan Qaboos University Hospital.
To the Editor:

In our experiment in democracy we have so often faced what seemed to be insurmountable odds. We have survived a civil war, race riots, two world wars, financial depressions, McCarthyism and the threat of nuclear annihilation in a decades-long Cold War. The monsters have raised their ugly heads so many times as we struggle to fulfill the promises of our founding fathers.

Is this then the time to throw in the towel and say it was all for naught? We have always come to our senses as a people and made sure the monsters do not win. This is the challenge we now face. We cannot succumb to the forces that would destroy us.

Richard Leimsider

Manalapan, N.J.

To the Editor:

Im a mother, a grandmother and a retired environmental scientist. Ive always been an independent and a patriot: voting based on the person not the party. Over the decades Ive found fewer and fewer Republicans to vote for. I wish Liz Cheney were in my state.

I do believe that our country is broken. Ive had the privilege of traveling extensively over my career, and I see other countries that embody American values better than we do here. Places where it is safe while preserving individual freedom. Where right to life protects schoolchildren, not embryonic tissue. Where income disparity is a fraction of what it is here. And where insurrection never happens.

I expect to see blood in the streets at the midterm elections. So Im emigrating to a European country where I feel safer, where I can afford health care and where my personal freedoms (and everyone elses) are preserved.
You grow up in a place, and you dont recognize it. It becomes a stranger. When we think of it, we just want to cry.

ERIC WONG, who left his native Hong Kong for England with his family in 2020 after a political crackdown by the Chinese government.
How Asylum Seekers Cross the Border

The southern border is seeing a historic spike in migrant crossings. A New York Times photographer documented three ways that people cross the border into the United States.

Kirsten Luce and

HIDALGO, Texas  Since President Biden took office, migration at the southern border of the United States has increased to levels not seen in decades. Crossings in the past two months have eclipsed the high numbers of last summer, and officials expect the trend to continue, even though, with pandemic restrictions still in place, there is almost no access to asylum.

The vast majority of migrants cross into the United States at spots between official ports of entry, walking over the border or wading, swimming or floating across the Rio Grande, almost always under the watch of cartel-approved guides hired in Mexico. At times, some have been invited by Customs and Border Protection officials to walk across pedestrian bridges from Mexico  by far the safest and most orderly route.

Waiting to be Handpicked

A migrant camp known as Senda De Vida in the Mexican city of Reynosa, across the river from McAllen, Texas, has been full for months. The pastor who runs it opened a second space last month for migrants who were sleeping in a makeshift encampment in a nearby public park.
LAGOS, Nigeria  Dozens were believed to be dead after assailants attacked a Catholic church in southwestern Nigeria on Sunday, firing on worshipers as they celebrated Mass, according to local officials.

The attack at the St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, in Ondo State, was the deadliest attack on a church in Nigeria in years, and brought the kind of violence usually seen in the countrys north to a relatively peaceful area of Africas most populous nation.

The attack occurred on Pentecost Sunday as dozens of worshipers were gathered at the church. At least four assailants stormed the building, according to the police.

It was the first time that a church had been attacked in the Ondo state in recent years, bringing a new sense of insecurity to a state that had been spared the levels of violence seen elsewhere in Nigeria.
DHAKA, Bangladesh  At least 49 people were killed and hundreds more suffered burns when a fire at a container depot in Bangladesh set off a series of explosions, officials said on Sunday, the latest such disaster in a country where mass-casualty fires have become a recurring problem.

Many people were in critical condition in hospital burn wards, according to local officials, who feared the death toll would rise. By afternoon, two dozen firefighter units were still trying to contain the blaze, which began around 10:45 p.m. Saturday at B.M. Container Depot in the town of Sitakunda, about 10 miles from Chattogram, Bangladeshs main port.

After the first firefighters arrived, a large explosion rocked the depot, causing the flames to spread. At least five firefighters were killed in that blast, and 14 others were wounded, officials said. More explosions followed, continuing well into Sunday morning.

The window glasses of my house are broken. Not just ours  we heard from the other people that their windows were also broken, even at two to three kilometers away from the depot, Majharul Islam, 26, a store owner who lives about 100 meters from the depot, said about the initial explosion.
SEOUL  North Korea launched a barrage of short-range ballistic missiles toward the waters off its east coast on Sunday, a day after the United States and South Korea completed a joint naval exercise involving an American aircraft carrier group, according to South Korean military officials.

So far this year, North Korea has conducted 18 weapons tests involving dozens of missiles, more tests than in 2020 and 2021 combined. On Sunday, it fired eight short-range ballistic missiles from the Sunan area of Pyongyang, the capital, and three other locations, the South Korean military said. Pyongyangs international airport is in Sunan, and the North has fired missiles from there in the past.

The missiles, all launched within a 37-minute period, flew about 68 to 416 miles, the South Korean military said in a statement. It said it sternly urged North Korea to stop serious provocations that harm peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.

In response, the South Korean and United States militaries fired eight surface-to-surface missiles off the east coast of South Korea early on Monday to demonstrate their ability to target North Korean missile forces, South Korean defense officials said. Separately, Japan and the United States also conducted a joint ballistic missile exercise aimed at showing their rapid response capability, Japans Defense Ministry said.
WELLINGTON, New Zealand  The volunteer clambered down the cliffs, progressing along a series of knots on a thin rope as he made his perilous way about 100 feet down a steep rock face to the small box that he needed to refill with poison.

It is one of thousands of such boxes, many in equally inaccessible spots, that have been distributed in the past month across Miramar Peninsula, south of New Zealands capital, Wellington.

Conservation workers and volunteers, like the cliff-clinging Dan Henry, have been baiting traps with fresh rabbit meat, scattering poison daubed with aromatic lure and scouring footage from cameras across the headland, all in an effort to address the areas stoat problem.

A problem that appears to consist of a single stoat.

That people are willing to go to such lengths in pursuit of one predatory mammal is a testament to the gravity of the biodiversity crisis in New Zealand. Its native birds, lizards and bats evolved in the absence of mammalian predators, which arrived only in recent centuries.
OFFALY'S biggest wind farm project moved a step closer last week when it won a provisional contract under the Renewable Energy Support Scheme (RESS-2).

The proposed Yellow River wind farm near Rhode was granted planning permission in 2014 and with 29 turbines, is larger than the nearby Mountlucas wind farm which was developed by Bord na Mona.

The Yellow River facility has a capacity of 104MW whereas the capacity of Mountlucas is 84MW.

Yellow River will also be by far the most significant wind energy project in Offaly to be installed on private land.

It was originally developed by a Wexford company, Green Wind but was subsequently purchased by SSE Renewables.

Commenting on the success in the RESS-2 auction, Finlay McCutcheon, director of Onshore Renewables Europe at SSE Renewables said: Were delighted the Yellow River wind farm project has been provisionally successful in this auction round and has secured a route to market which will enable the onshore project to contribute to Ireland's 2030 renewable energy targets.

We will continue to progress the project, with a target of completing the wind farm in 2024. Once operational, we look forward to working with the community to share the benefits of Yellow River wind farm through its substantial Community Fund.

The company said that due to its 100MW-plus scale and the lower cost of delivery associated with onshore wind technology, Yellow River Wind Farm is one of the more competitive projects to have been successful in the RESS-2 process.

The provisional auction results are subject to Irish Government approval with confirmation due on June 15 next.

SSE Renewables says it will continue to progress the 29-turbine wind farm through development and towards a final investment decision. The project is expected to support up to 80 full-time construction jobs at peak.

The company said that subject to a timely positive final investment decision, it will operate the asset throughout its lifetime.

The wind farm will be capable of generating enough low-carbon renewable energy to power the equivalent of 66,000 homes annually and offset 71 million kg of carbon per annum, contributing significantly to Ireland's 2030 renewable energy targets.

The Community Benefit Fund will be worth around 9 million over the lifetime of the RESS-2 contract, added the company, saying the fund will be designed in consultation with the local community and will help promote a range of energy sustainability, climate action and other community initiatives in the area around the wind farm.

The wind farm project encountered significant opposition from some local people when it was first proposed and there was particular concern about its proximity to Croghan Hill.

However, it is strongly supported by 22 local landowners who have leased sites for turbines to the wind company and they launched a public campaign in 2019 against Bord na Mona when the peat and energy company was engaged in a local planning dispute with Green Wind.

The maximum tip height of the turbine blades will be 166 metres.

Twelve of the turbines are west of the R400 road, north west of Rhode village, and two more are about 900 metres north east of the village. Other turbines are in the north east corner of Offaly close to Westmeath and Meath boundary.

Turbines will be in the townlands of Derryarkin, Derryiron, Coolcor, Coolville, Ballyburly, Greenhills, Bunsallagh, Derrygreenagh, Knockdrin, Wood, Killowen, Corbetstown, Carrick, Garr and Dunville.

Elsewhere in north Offaly, Bord na Mona is nearing completion of its 21-turbine wind farm at Cloncreen, near Clonbullogue.

Separately, Statkraft have planning consent for Moanvane Wind Farm, a 12-turbine project between Geashill and Walsh Island.
Local company Dotser was announced this week as a finalist in the Irish Exporters Association 2022 Export Industry Awards.

The Export Industry Awards recognise the tremendous achievements of companies working in international trade in Ireland.

The local ecommerce, software development and integration company is shortlisted for the category of High Potential Exporter Award; a category which identifies an early stage exporting company which has surpassed its potential and is demonstrating success and commitment in one or more markets.

Dotser was founded in 2000 in Tullamore by local man Loughnan Hooper and employs 14 staff from its Axis Business Park headquarters with out-reach presences in Dublin, London and Sydney.

Home to Dotser Commerce, Dotser Agri, Dotser Tools and SuperShow - Event Management System; Dotser has achieved significant international growth in the past two years and is today supported by Enterprise Ireland by way of an effective sustainable strategy to deliver a steady pipeline of target customers and key contracts to achieve significant sales growth.

The awards ceremony will take place at a black-tie Export Industry Awards Ceremony and Gala Dinner in the Mansion House on September 30th. This will be followed by an Alumni Masterclass hosted by Trinity Business School, Trinity College Dublin on the 14th October.

TAP HERE for more information.

Dotser is an innovative software development company offering a suite of cloud-based software products to automate business processes including e-commerce and event management platforms.

The company was established in 2000, and has developed software platforms such as SuperShow Show Management Platform, for the events industry and agricultural industry, and Dotser Agri and Dotser Tools; software integration and ecommerce solutions for the agricultural and machinery markets. Today, the company is backed by Enterprise Ireland and is expanding internationally.

Key platforms:

SuperShow Show Management System is the leading Competition & Show Management System, providing one central platform to manage website, competitions, trade stands, memberships and shop.

DotserAgri - Agri Dealer eCommerce Platform is a central platform which allows users to manage and promote new & used Machinery, parts & merchandise In one central platform.

DotserTools - The DotserTools Platform is a central platform that allows users to integrate online businesses with leading tool and hardware supplier.

DotserCommerce - DotserCommerce is an eCommerce platform designed and developed to give you everything you need for your business to sell online.

Each DotserCommerce website is designed and coded specifically for the clients and its users requirements using our solid and robust platform which can integrate with any or multiple stock management systems and scale in line with your business growth.

See www.supershow.io and www.dotser.ie for more information.

The Irish Exporters Associations Export Industry Awards is the premier event for recognising the achievements of Irish Exporters and has been growing in strength and recognition each year. It is important that we highlight the exporting companies and service providers who have excelled across the industry despite some difficult trading conditions and that we highlight these companies who have been fundamental to Irelands success. Exporting businesses have been an essential part of Irelands global success despite incredibly difficult international trade conditions over the past two years. The Export Industry Awards allows us to celebrate those Irish businesses that continue to succeed in an increasingly uncertain world. Over 500 export industry professionals will attend the black-tie gala event on September 30th at the Round Room at the Mansion House. Sponsors: KPMG, Trinity Business School, Trinity College Dublin, Bord Bia, Dixon International Logistics, Enterprise Ireland, the Institute of Sustainable Trade, Thyme IT and media partner The Times & The Sunday Times.

The Export Industry Awards have been recognising the tremendous achievements of companies working in the industry for 19 years and has been growing in strength and recognition each year. It is important that we highlight the exporting companies and service providers who have excelled across the industry despite some difficult trading conditions and that we highlight these companies who have been fundamental to Irelands success.
stc Bahrain, a leading telecom services operator in the kingdom and a world-class digital enabler, has been awarded the status of Approved Employer for the second time by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA).

The ACCA Approved Employer status is awarded to leading organisations that offer outstanding continuing professional development opportunities to their finance professionals and that demonstrate superior professional values, ethics and governance at the workplace.

As the only telecom operator in the kingdom to receive this accreditation, stc Bahrains achievement is yet another international milestone in recognition of its high standards of training and development for their accounting and finance staff, said a statement from the company.

To achieve the ACCA Employer status, companies must adhere to international best practices in areas such as employees professional development, training and skill enhancement.

The award recognizes the various opportunities stc Bahrain provides to uplift the potential of their talent in the field of financial and accounting domains and create opportunities of growth for themselves.

The certificate is an endorsement to stc Bahrains commitment to upholding the highest levels of standards around performance and productivity.

Sara Khonji, Chief People Officer at stc Bahrain, said: "We are proud to be the only telecom operator in the kingdom to receive this prestigious award and are confident of our vital role in creating an enhanced learning environment that is interactive, collaborative, creative, and inclusive."

"Weve committed to delivering over 9000 hours Year on Year to our employees. This coincides with our utmost commitment to nurture our talents by creating growth opportunities and boosting their contribution towards achieving the Kingdoms economic vision," she noted.

"The award places us in favorable position to attract the best talent as an Employer of Choice and provide our employees with the tools to grow our company and lead the change towards enabling the aspired digital transformation in the kingdom," she added.

Fazeela Gopalani, the Head of ACCA Middle East, said: "We are delighted to provide formal recognition to stc Bahrain in support of their commitment to providing learning and development opportunities to their accounting and finance staff which further supports the accounting profession in Bahrain."

"As an approved employer, stc Bahrain has been awarded for achieving the global benchmark that further fortifies the effort that they place in learning and development. We look forward to working together to continue to strengthen the accounting profession in Bahrain and across the region," she added.-TradeArabia News Service
NEARLY 80 tourism businesses (accommodation, attractions, and activity providers) from across the Irelands Hidden Heartlands region met recently for the first Failte Ireland in person networking event in the Sheraton Hotel, Athlone since the pandemic.

The purpose of the Failte Ireland event was for accommodation, attraction and activity providers in Irelands Hidden Heartlands to learn more about the breadth of experiences that are on offer in the region, as they work side by side to develop a strong cross-selling culture across the destination.

A number of ten-minute, one-to-one sessions took place so businesses could showcase their products and explore how they can develop future themed bundle or experiences, to build on the experiences Irelands Hidden Heartlands offers, positioning it as a compelling holiday destination for Summer 2022 and beyond.

Speaking about the event, Paddy Mathews, Head of Irelands Hidden Heartlands at Failte Ireland, said: As we begin to enter the busy summer season it is opportune to bring tourism businesses and local authorities together so they can learn what else is on their doorstep for visitors to enjoy. We are pleased to be working with so many businesses and local authorities today to build great itineraries and bundle the regions tourism offerings to create more reasons for visitors to stay and enjoy the wonderful experiences available right across Irelands Hidden Heartlands.
A woman who died after a car entered the River Lee in Cork city has been named as mother-of-two Gillian Daly.

The 44-year-old woman died while two children are receiving treatment in hospital following the incident on Friday evening.

The two children, believed to be aged 10 and 12, were rescued from the water and were taken to Cork University Hospital to receive treatment for non-life threatening injuries.

Ms Daly, a primary school teacher from Douglas, died after the car drove off Kennedy Quay shortly before 9pm.

Gardai are treating the crash as a tragic accident.

Ms Dalys body was recovered from the River Lee by Irish Naval Services dive team hours later after the car was submerged in the water.

Her remains were taken to Cork University Hospital.

The results of the post-mortem examination will determine the course of the Garda investigation into the incident, gardai said.

She is survived by her husband John OConnell and sons Evan and Luke.

Her funeral is to take place on Tuesday in St Patricks Church, Millstreet.
As Ukrainian troops tried to claw back territory and stave off a Russian assault along the countrys embattled eastern front, the government also rejected a demand Emmanuel Macron that Moscow not be humiliated
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Police have launched a critical incident investigation after a man died during an arrest on the M5 in Sydney.
Bahrains Labour Fund Tamkeen has launched a series of meetings to understand the future plans of enterprises backed by it and discuss with them growth opportunities through the optimal utilisation of resources.

These programmes were designed to increase productivity and achieve positive impact in the local economy, in line with the national priorities and the economic recovery plan, whilst also addressing the current and potential market changes.

This initiative is a part of Tamkeens continuous efforts to communicate with the enterprises of all economic sectors and sizes (micro, small, medium and large) and to understand their future aspirations while also exploring how they can utilise Tamkeens support in a number of areas, including training, investment, and expansion in order to achieve growth and greater economic impact.

Identifying new areas

These meetings also aim to encourage business owners and entrepreneurs to identify new ideas and market opportunities, shedding light on the most important indicators and growth prospects in several sectors, while also focusing on the optimal utilisation of support in order to reach their full potential and remain sustainable.

The attendees commended this initiative, which strengthens the relationship between Tamkeen and private sector enterprises. They also lauded the new strategic direction and programmes, highlighting their optimism for the positive impact on enterprises of all sizes and sectors, which will ensure their increased contribution in the national economy.

Maitham Mansoor, company representative of Flexsell International stated: Im very excited about Tamkeens strategic direction, especially because of how it focuses on digitalisation and expansion. Our company has great aspirations in that space, and were looking forward to expanding and increasing our digitalisation in the future. We applied to the Start Your Business programme and were able to go through the application process with ease. Im looking forward to growing with support from Tamkeen.

Facilitating growth

Eng Khalid Ali Salem, Chief Executive Officer of Grotta Bakery, said: Considering some recent economic and financial challenges facing entrepreneurs, Tamkeen plays a crucial role in facilitating growth and generating positive impact. The meeting highlighted Tamkeens continuous efforts in enhancing their programmes and offerings, particularly from the Chief Executive and Management, who were ready to accommodate our concerns and suggest solutions to some of these challenges.

The team at Tamkeen has expressed its readiness to continue to improve and update the programmes and services offered to cater to changing market needs. This initiative helps build trust in its new strategic direction and will result in the prosperity and development of different sectors in the future.

Zainab Hassan Kadhem, Founder of Petula Floristry stated that Tamkeen is eager to provide high quality services to its customers which is reflected through the professionalism of its Customer Service Advisors, who should be thanked for all their efforts. She commented: Tamkeen plays a major role in empowering Bahraini businesses through its support programmes, which will contribute to the growth and prosperity of the national economy.

This meeting marks the first of a series planned by Tamkeen, with ongoing sessions scheduled with enterprises from different sectors to take place shortly.-- TradeArabia News Service
From the prime minister touching down in Indonesia for key talks, to Vladimir Putin's new warning to Ukraine and Rafael Nadal claiming victory at French Open  here's what is making across the world right now.
Young Ukrainians who experienced the war have been invited to meet the powerful at the World Economic Forum and reflect on what they've seen. They are committed and looking to the future, reports Manuela Kasper-Claridge.
The US ambassador vowed to hold war criminals accountable on a visit to the Kyiv suburb of Borodyanka. Meanwhile, Ukrainian authorities say Russia is retreating from a key city in the Donbas region. DW has more.
Black smoke rose above Kyiv following the first attack on the capital in weeks. Vladimir Putin has said Russia will hit fresh targets if the West delivers long-range missiles to Ukraine. DW has the latest.
Residential school survivors met with Catholic bishops in Winnipeg Wednesday to discuss what they'd like to hear from Pope Francis when he visits Canada this summer.
Iga Swiatek uses her French Open victory speech to urge Ukraine to "stay strong", days after her opponent Coco Gauff calls for an end to gun violence.
The South Korean military said the missile was shot by North Korea off its east coast. The move follows joint US-South Korea naval exercises in the Philippine Sea.
North Korea launched eight ballistic missiles off its east coast on Sunday, South Korea's military said, after Seoul and Washington staged their first joint drills involving a US aircraft carrier in more than four years.
At least 50 people were killed and others injured after gunmen attacked a Catholic church in Nigeria's Ondo state during mass on Sunday, according to state lawmakers.
Mid-Day 04 Jun 2022

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Abu Dhabi-based Masdar has signed implementation agreements with the Ministry of Energy of Azerbaijan to develop clean and renewable energy projects in the country with a combined capacity of 4,000 MW as an exclusive concession, with the right to develop an additional 6,000 MW as a second phase, thus bringing the total production capacity of these projects to 10,000 MW  the largest such signing in Azerbaijans history.

One of the worlds leading renewable energy companies, Masdar said it has signed two implementation agreements, one relating to the development of onshore wind projects with a capacity of 1,000MW, and 1,000MW of solar photovoltaic (PV) projects.

The second agreement covers integrated offshore wind and green hydrogen projects with a capacity of 2,000MW, said the statement from the Emirati group.

The implementation agreements were signed by Parviz Shahbazov, Minister of Energy, with Fawaz Al Muharrami, Acting Executive Director of Masdar Clean Energy at an event in Shusha, held as a special session of Baku Energy Week.

Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Chairman of Masdar, said: "The 4,000MW of renewable energy projects announced today reinforce the close relationship between UAE and Azerbaijan and are a testament to our shared commitment to progressive climate action."

"These clean energy projects also demonstrate the valuable economic opportunities of the energy transition and will contribute to the energy diversification and energy security of Azerbaijan. Today's announcement also underscores the UAE and Masdars position as a global leader in renewable energy, as we progress our strategy toward a portfolio of at least 100 GW globally," he stated.

Shahbazov said: "Today we are going to sign mega projects with Masdar in accordance with the green energy course of the President of Azerbaijan, which defines renewable energy sources as a strategic priority for the country's development."

"These 4,000 MW solar, wind and green hydrogen projects, being the largest renewable energy production capacity in the region and in our energy history, provide ample opportunities for the development of Azerbaijan as a green growth country, green energy producer and exporter, as well as allow for involving multibillion-dollar green investment," he noted.

The agreement for onshore wind and solar projects includes measures to study and strengthen the network and implement processes for the export of electricity. The second agreement includes measures to create wind power for production and export purposes, decarbonization, hydrogen production and export, he added.

At the same event, Masdar also signed a MoU with the state oil company Socar for the joint development of renewable energy sources in Azerbaijan.
North Korea fired at least one ballistic missile towards the sea off its east coast, the South Korean military said on Sunday, a day after a top U.S.
Saint-Girons, France (AFP) June 3, 2022



Hundreds protested in front of a police station in southwest France Friday after hunters were held over the shooting of a bear in the mountainous region late last year. The police investigation has incensed some locals in the remote Ariege because the 70-year-old hunter suspected of shooting the bear said he fired in self-defence. "It's intolerable to find ourselves in this position.
US Democracy Institute founder Patrick Basham doubts the Joe Biden strategy for Ukraine has failed and is doomed to lose support.
A group of doctors made it their mission to bring seriously injured Ukrainian children to the U.S. for burn treatment.


Pope Francis will discuss with Ukrainian officials the possibility of a trip to their country amid the continued Russian attacks that destroyed more than 100 churches.
New Zealand Herald 03 Jun 2022

Moscow will have "no choice" but to strike at "decision-making centres" - which may mean outside of Ukraine - if Kyiv uses..
Russian Tu-95 strategic bombers launched missiles at Kyiv from the Caspian Sea early on Sunday and two of the Ukrainian capital's eastern districts were rocked by explosions, Ukraine's air force and the city's mayor said.
Watch VideoRussia took aim at Western military supplies for Ukraine with airstrikes in Kyiv on Sunday that it said destroyed tanks..

Newsy 05 Jun 2022
New Delhi, June 5 (UNI) A massive protest rally to condemn the targeted killings of Kashmiri Pandits in Kashmir Valley was organised by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Delhi's Jantar Mantar on Sunday.

Labelled as Jan Aakrosh rally, the protest witnessed the attendance of tall party leaders like Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, Environment Minister Gopal Rai, Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh and other MLAs.

The centre stage was taken by Delhi CM and AAP's national convenor Arvind Kejriwal who lambasted at Bharatiya Janata Party-led Union government for its "failure to give security to Kashmiri Pandits".

"BJP government has failed in providing protection to the Kashmiri Pandits. The era of 1990 has returned while the central government does not have any plans or strategy to deal with the threat of another exodus," he said while addressing the public in the rally.

Everytime a murder happens in the valley, Home Minister Amit Shah calls a high-level meeting to assess that. But what comes out of the meeting is not seen on the ground. Enough of these meetings, we need action against the terrorists. Kashmir wants action," he stated further.

Kejriwal also hit out at the Centre for not allowing the minority community to protest against the targeted attacks as well.

"When they (Kashmiri Pandits) protest against the targeted killings, the present BJP govt in Kashmir does not allow them to protest. If the government behaves like this, the suffering of the people becomes double," he added.

Before the rally started, Manish Sisodia tweeted, "This period will be counted as the worst phase in the history of Kashmir. The BJP has completely failed to stop targeted killings and there is an atmosphere of panic and terror in Kashmir."

Off lately, Kejriwal and AAP have been raising about the targeted killings of the Kashmiri Pandits in the valley.

Few days ago, he stated that the community is forced to relive the horror of the 1990s era of terrorism and no one is doing anything to stop it.

While last month, the Aam Aadmi Party's national convenor had asked for the safety and rehabilitation of the community members in the valley in the wake of a government employee, Rahul Bhat's murder in Budgam.

Since January 2022, the valley has recorded 18 targeted killings of Kashmiri Pandits and civilians; Seven people were murdered in May alone.

Recently, two personsa bank employee and a brick kiln labourerwere killed in Kashmir on June 2 while another labourer was injured in two separate incidents.

UNI ASH SY
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TEHRAN, Iran (AP)  Irans Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei acknowledged Saturday that Iran took two Greek oil tankers last month in helicopter-launched raids in the Persian Gulf.

The confiscations were retaliation for Greece's role in the U.S. seizure of crude oil from an Iranian-flagged tanker the same week in the Mediterranean Sea over violating Washingtons harsh sanctions on the Islamic Republic.

They steal Iranian oil off the Greek coast, then our brave men who dont fear death respond and seized the enemys oil tanker," Khamenei said during an 80-minute speech on the anniversary of the death of the late founder of the Islamic Republic, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. But they use their media empire and extensive propaganda to accuse Iran of piracy.

Who is the pirate? You stole our oil, we took it back from you. Taking back a stolen property is not called stealing, he added.

The seizures ratcheted up tensions between Iran and the West already simmering over Iran's tattered 2015 nuclear deal with world powers. Tehran has been enriching more uranium, closer to weapons-grade levels than ever before, causing concern that negotiators wont find a way back to the accord and raising the risk of a wider war.

Irans seizure of the tankers was the latest in a string of hijackings and explosions to roil a region that includes the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow mouth of the Persian Gulf through which a fifth of all traded oil passes. The incidents began after then-President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew the U.S. from the nuclear deal, which saw Tehran drastically limit its enrichment of uranium in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions.

The U.S. Navy blamed Iran for a series of limpet mine attacks on vessels that damaged tankers in 2019, as well as for a fatal drone attack on an Israeli-linked oil tanker that killed two European crew members in 2021.

Iranian hijackers also stormed and briefly captured a Panama-flagged asphalt tanker off the United Arab Emirates last year and briefly seized and held a Vietnamese tanker in November.

Tehran denies carrying out the attacks but a wider shadow war between Iran and the West has played out in the regions volatile waters. Tanker seizures have been a part of it since 2019, when Iran seized the British-flagged Stena Impero after the United Kingdom detained an Iranian oil tanker off Gibraltar. Iran released the tanker months later as London also released the Iranian vessel.

Iran last year also seized and held a South Korean-flagged tanker for months amid a dispute over billions of dollars of frozen assets Seoul holds.

Satellite images analyzed by the AP on Wednesday confirmed that one of the two tankers remained off the coast of the Iranian port city of Bandar Abbas. The Planet Labs PBC images from Tuesday showed the Prudent Warrior between Bandar Abbas and Irans Qeshm Island near the strategic Strait of Hormuz, the narrow mouth of the Persian Gulf through which a fifth of all the worlds oil traded passes.

It remained unclear where the second ship, the Delta Poseidon, was.

Talks in Vienna on the nuclear deal have been stalled since April. Since the deals collapse, Iran has run advanced centrifuges and has a rapidly growing stockpile of enriched uranium. Nonproliferation experts warn Iran has enriched enough up to 60% purity  a short technical step from weapons-grade levels of 90%  to make one nuclear weapon if it chooses.

Iran insists its program is for peaceful purposes, though United Nations experts and Western intelligence agencies say Iran had an organized military nuclear program through 2003.

Khamenei, who has final say on all state matters, in his speech Saturday also accused the U.S. of supporting recent protests in Iran sparked by price hikes and the slashing of subsidies by the government. Teachers for weeks also demonstrated in favor of better pay and working conditions.

The value of the Iranian currency, the rial, has been weakening for years but recently tumbled to new lows, reflecting growing anxiety over Irans economy,

Khamenei criticized what he called the decades-long U.S. opposition to the nation and said Washington pins its hopes to such protests. Khamenei, 82, said Iran's enemies try to pit Iranian citizens against the Islamic system through psychological warfare, the internet and financial support.
Director of Content and Operations

Spencer McKee is OutThere Colorado's Director of Content and Operations. In his spare time, Spencer loves to hike, rock climb, and trail run. He's on a mission to summit all 58 of Colorado's fourteeners and has already climbed more than half.
Photo: (Photo : ALEXANDER NEMENOV/AFP via Getty Images)

A young mom of two has filed a lawsuit against the Urban Air adventure park in Bloomingdale, Illinois after video captured her harness coming loose while she was in the middle of a zip line ride, choking her as she was suspended in the air.

Evelyn Rapier said her time at the suburban adventure park started out fun last November as her family celebrated her 3-year-old's birthday party there. Things took a turn for the worse, though, when Rapier decided to try out the park's famous Sky Rider zip line ride, according to NBC Chicago.

Rapier recalled the incident, saying "It was strapped up here, which I had no idea, and ended up choking me. In the video you can see me grabbing the rope and pulling on it and I knew that wasn't working."

Rapier thought she was going to die

Rapier said she feared for her life at the time, but ultimately managed to hold herself up with the help of her hand to keep her from choking. Rapier said that as she swung through the air with the harness choking her, she thought she was going to die, according to Fox 32 Chicago.

Rapier added that all she could think of was her family, friends and especially her young children watching this. She thanked God she was able to find the strength to pull the harness away from her neck and survive.

Rapier may have survived that incident but according to her, a lot of people, especially children would not have been able to do what she did to survive. Rapier filed a lawsuit as she wanted to let people know this ride is dangerous and that the adventure park and its employees are careless and do not make safety a priority.

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Rapier alleges negligence by Urban Air adventure park in her lawsuit

According to Rapier's suit, she left the incident with a bruised neck, which alleges negligence by Urban Air adventure park. Rapier's attorney Marc McCallister issued a statement about the lawsuit, saying "I think we want to make sure that people are aware of the risks, but also the owners and operators of these facilities are making sure that people working there are trained and they also appreciate the risks that their customers faced."

Urban Air released a statement of its own, saying that the safety and well-being of their guests and employees is the company's highest priority in everything they do. The park said that one injury is one too many, but what is important to remember is ride safety is a shared partnership between the park and their guests and it is essential they follow posted and verbal guidelines and instructions.

The park added in the statement that out of an abundance of caution, all of their staff members were retrained after the event on November 19, 2021. Rapier, who is represented by Cavanagh Law Group, filed a two-count lawsuit in the Circuit Court of DuPage County against Urban Air Adventure Park Bloomingdale and two of its employees who were operating the Sky Ride Zip Line at the time of her ride. The suit seeks unspecificed damages, according to the Chicago Sun Times.

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New Delhi, June 5 (UNI) Congress on Sunday blamed the BJP for pushing India into "a dark age of religious polarisation", and said sacking spokespersons Nupur Sharma and Naveen Jindal was not sufficient.

"BJPs statement today saying it is, strongly against any ideology which insults or demeans any sect or religion is nothing but a blatantly counterfeit pretence, which is evidently farce and another sham attempt at damage control.," Congress Chief Spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala said.

"The BJP and its shenanigans have repeatedly & by design insulted Indias centuries old civilisational ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam by constantly pitting one community and religion against another to polarise, to divide and to spread hatred," he said.
Photo: (Photo : PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images)

An Illinois mom was killed and two young kids were injured when a sudden storm prompted a boat captain to cut loose their parasail, which then dragged them across the ocean and slammed them into a bridge in the Florida Keys, authorities announced.

According to a news release sent by the U.S. Coast Guard on Tuesday night, a nearby boater saw the victims hit the water and rushed to rescue them, pulling the woman and the two children into his boat and taking them to waiting paramedics.

Authorities said the 33-year-old mother from Schaumburg, Illinois, was already dead by the time they arrived at the nearby Sunset Grill Marina. Both her 10-year-old son and 9-year-old nephew were taken to hospitals for treatment of their injuries, according to USA Today.

Memorial Day storm developed suddenly

John Callion, a fishing guide, raced around Pigeon Key to reach the victims, his fiancee, Kasey Platt, told WPLG-TV. Platt told the television station that he was pretty frantic on the call. Platt knew something bad had happened as he told her to call 911 right away.

According to Callion, the Memorial Day storm developed suddenly, leading to the unfortunate accident. He told the Miami Herald that it was pretty much flat calm out there, but you could see the storm coming. Callion added that all of a sudden, the temperature in the area dropped by 10 degrees and the wind started blowing like crazy.

According to a Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission report that was released on Tuesday night, the captain on the boat pulling the parasail decided to "cut a line tethered to the three victims" because the parasail was "pegging," or dragging the vessel.

The agency's report said that the woman and children were then dragged "through and across the surface of the water" by the inflated parasail until they collided with the Old Seven Mile Bridge.

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Captain made a major mistake in cutting the cord

Mark McCulloh, who is a parasailing safety consultant from Maitland, Florida, said that boat captains should never cut the cord when people are in the air. McCulloh told the Associated Press that decision should not be even in the cards, calling the captain's actions a major no-no.

McCulloh noted that, generally speaking, a captain is giving up control of the people parasailing by cutting the line. He added that the captain ran a huge risk because it is windy. McCulloh said that when the parasail lands in the water, it doesn't stop moving.

Callion, the fishing guide who personally saw the crash, found the 10-year-old boy battered but awake after the impact. The 9-year-old boy was in worse shape as Callion found him unconscious and wrapped in the parasail's lines. He said that it was pretty much the worst thing you could imagine and it was real bad. The Coast Guard and the state's wildlife agency are currently investigating the tragic incident.

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Photo: (Photo : OLIVIER DOULIERY/AFP via Getty Images)

The U.S. Department of Education announced on Wednesday, June 1, that it had canceled about $5.8 billion in outstanding student loans for more than 560,000 borrowers in the largest single loan forgiveness action taken by the U.S. government to date.

The student loan cancellation applies to all those who attended schools operated by the now-defunct Corinthian Colleges, one of the largest for-profit education companies that filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy back in 2015.

Corinthian Colleges has faced several lawsuits since it was founded in 1995, the most notable of which happened in 2013, when now U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris sued the company while she was attorney general of the state of California for "deceptive and false advertising and recruiting" among other allegations, according to the department.

Student loan forgiveness will be automatic

U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona issued a statement, saying "As of today, every student deceived, defrauded, and driven into debt by Corinthian Colleges can rest assured that the Biden-Harris administration has their back and will discharge their federal student loans."

The department said that qualifying borrowers won't need to fill out the application to receive the relief. The loan forgiveness will be automatic, and the students eligible for the cancellation are expected to be notified within weeks, according to Politico.

Wednesday's news comes as the Biden administration considers broader student loan forgiveness for millions of borrowers in the United States. The Biden administration has approved $25 billion in loan forgiveness thus far for about 1.3 million borrowers.

While some economists and politicians hailed the move of the Biden administration as a step in the right direction toward addressing the massive $1.7 trillion student debt crisis, millions of borrowers have yet to see relief and are beginning to wonder when, and if, their loans will be forgiven.

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Student loan repayment pause to be extended until August 31, 2022

According to a report by CNBC, White House officials are zeroing in on canceling $10,000 for all borrowers in the U.S. who earn less than $150,000 per year. That is still up in the air, though, with the Biden administration not yet confirming such plans.

The Department of Education issued a ruling back in April, extending the pause on student loan repayment, interest and collections through August 31, 2022. Michelle Dimino, a senior education policy leader at Third Way, predicts that payment pause will be extended yet again through the end of the year, at least until after the midterm elections this coming November.

Cardona and other top White House officials have also made it clear that they are comfortable extending the pause on student loan repayment during interviews. Cardona told Cox Media Group back in April that they are going to continue to monitor the situation and will be comfortable moving the set August 31 date if needed.

Dimino expects that more defrauded borrowers will see their debt reduced or canceled soon, especially those who qualify for a closed school loan discharge or with pending borrower defense claims. They are people whose school closed while they were enrolled, or they could not complete their program because of the closure.

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Photo: (Photo : Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

The Health and Human Services' Office of Inspector General (OIG) is launching an audit into how the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) responded leading up to the massive February recall of baby formula and closure of Abbott Nutrition's facility in Sturgis, Michigan.

OIG's review, which was first reported by ABC News, will examine whether the FDA upheld its duty "to safeguard the nation's food supply, including infant formula and ensure all ingredients are safe" and if the federal agency's regulators followed proper recall protocol once a deadly bacteria had been detected inside the Michigan plant of Abbott.

Abbott's Sturgis facility was shut down back in mid-February after contamination issues inside the plant had been linked to four infants being hospitalized with a rare but serious bacterial infection, two of whom ultimately passed away.

Abbott's quality control has come under questioning before

The review of the actions of the FDA marks an uncommon and extraordinary move from the watchdog agency. The OIG's advent also punctuates frustrated and loud calls from lawmakers and the American public alike for accountability on the ongoing baby formula shortage - a now-nationwide crisis which was made worse by Abbott's contamination issues and ultimate shutdown.

This is not the first time that Abbott's quality control has come under questioning. According to documents and a public timeline of the events, federal regulators warned months ago of potential problems at a manufacturing plant for infant formula.

The FDA found sanitation issues at the Sturgis plant in September 2021, according to the New York Post. Abbott "did not maintain a building used in the manufacture, processing, packing or holding of infant formula in a clean and sanitary condition," according to the agency's inspection report.

FDA had collected samples at the plant by February 1 which confirmed the presence of cronobacter, according to the report. Abbott maintains, however, that there is no conclusive evidence that its formula products contributed to the death of the two infants.

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Agency leaders failed to act on whistleblower report

But it was not until the middle of February when Abbott, the largest infant formula manufacturer in the United States, issued a voluntary recall. The drastic move by Abbott quickly slashed a significant share of the formula supply in the U.S. - a market which had already started to show signs of strain from supply chain disruptions brought upon by the COVID pandemic.

There was also a 34-page whistleblower report from a former employee of Abbott Laboratories, who alleged a "litany of violations" and contamination issues at the company's Sturgis plant. That complaint remained in limbo for months, though, after it was sent to the FDA in October 2021, according to Politico.

Agency leaders recently testified before members of the U.S. Congress, saying that they did not receive that report last fall "due to an isolated failure in FDA's mailroom, likely due to COVID-19 staffing issues."

Related Article: President Biden Invokes Defense Production Act to Address Baby Formula Shortage in the U.S.
Photo: (Photo : ANGELA WEISS/AFP via Getty Images)

Hollywood actress Jada Pinkett Smith became emotional during Wednesday's episode of "Red Table Talk" as she spoke with an Indiana mom who shared the heartbreaking story of her 12-year-old daughter's journey with alopecia and the bullying she suffered as a result before committing suicide.

Alopecia is a hair-loss disorder that Jada and an estimated 6.8 million other Americans suffer from in the United States, according to WTHR. The disorder does not discriminate as it affects any sex, ethnic group, and age, and the symptoms can vary. It is even worse in some cases as it can impact a person's sense of identity.

Pinkett Smith's mother Adrienne Banfield-Norris made the introduction to the interview in the show, saying "Three months ago, this story broke our hearts." Rio Allred was diagnosed with the hair-loss condition after her family noticed a bald spot in December 2020.

Rio was so strong despite her sudden hair loss

Allred's mom, Nikki Ball, said on the show that even with the hair loss, Rio remained so strong. Ball said that she just rocked it, even when the hair was still falling out and she just had these big bald patches. Ball added that they tried creams and painful injections to save Rio's hair but they had no luck.

Ball said that Rio told her that she did not want to do those things anymore. The 12-year-old child asked her mom if they can just shave her head? Ball said they heeded her daughter's request and she just glowed after shaving all her hair.

On Monday, Rio Allred, a 12-year-old girl, took her own life. 



Rio's mother says Rio was diagnosed with Alopecia in the beginning of 2021. Her family says she was bullied because of her medical condition.https://t.co/7RR34oTeG4  News 4 San Antonio (@News4SA) March 19, 2022

Allred's head was shaved right before the beginning of seventh grade, according to People magazine. Rio's grandma bought her a wig that she was thrilled to show off but when she returned to school, she was not met with the same kindness.

According to Nikki, her daughter was relentlessly bullied by her classmates. Rio later told her mother she did not want to wear the wig anymore. Ball said that Rio had the wig ripped off her head in school and she got smacked upside the head while walking down the hallway. Ball added that all of those things happened within the first two weeks of school.

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Constant bullying took a toll on Rio, who decided to commit suicide

Ball said the bullying, taunting and name calling continued even when her child stopped wearing the wig. The harassment was so bad that it got to the point that Ball was considering moving Rio to a different school or homeschool her instead.

Rio finally had enough as she decided to take her own life on March 14, 2022. Ball was emotional when talking about her daughter's suicide, saying "No one prepares you to sign a death certificate for your child or watching a coroner's van pull up or having to sit your 7-year-old down and tell her that her sister's dead. It was the worst day of my life."

Yahoo reported that the hosts of Red Table Talk became emotional as well, with Pinkett Smith thanking Ball for sharing this painful story.

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Photo: (Photo : DANIEL LEAL/AFP via Getty Images)

Missouri mom Michelle Audo, 48, is recovering from a beating she received from two teen bullies who went to their house with the intention of fighting her 16-year-old daughter.

Audo incurred a broken nose, two black eyes and a concussion after the teen girls, who are 13 and 14 years old, threw punches at her. The incident happened late at night on Saturday, May 14, while the Audo family was already resting in bed.

According to the mom, the group of teen bullies drove by their house at around 10:30 p.m. and called out to her daughter from the driveway. Audo went down to tell the girls to leave their property but they became more aggressive.

When Audo said that her daughter isn't coming out, the teen bullies threatened that they will come in and get her. When she prevented the girls from going inside, that's when two girls jump out of the car and punched the mom, per the Kansas City Star.

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Teen Bullies Said Mom Hit First

Audo's other daughter, 18, as well as her husband, tried to help by pulling the attackers away from her. The father also used a cane to knock down one of the girls.

Though the attackers eventually left and Audo filed a police report, the 18-year-old daughter learned that the harassment of her sister continued on social media. The older sister was able to take screenshots of Snapchat stories posted by one of the teen bullies, which had captions alluding to their mother getting some serious beating.

Audo eventually learned that one of the girls who attacked her was dating a boy that was friends with her 16-year-old. Speaking with the New York Post, Audo said that the teenagers decided they can't like her daughter based on this fact.

The investigators were able to track down some of the girls involved in the attack. One of them told the cops that it was Audo who tried to hit them first when she came to the side of the car and started to swing at them.

The girls defended that they were retaliating. The teenager also said she didn't report the incident to the police, if she felt that the mom was first to assault them, because she didn't want to land in trouble.

Teen Bullies to be Tried in Family Court

The local police's Community Youth Outreach division is investigating the attack. The mom believes that the girls who beat her need to "pay the consequences" of their actions. They must also be aware that they cannot come back to attack again or do the same thing to somebody else.

Police Chief Bob Muenz said that the case may likely be shifted from juvenile court to family court, where they are set to face a judge, per Yahoo! News. Meanwhile, Audo also said that none of the parents tried to contact her and this surprised her because an adult should acknowledge what their children did.

"The lack of any action [from the parents] is telling," the mother said.

Related Article: Jury Finds 'Cheer Mom' Guilty of Harassing Teenage Girls in Daughter's Cheerleading Team
Photo: (Photo : FREDERIC SCHEIBER/AFP via Getty Images)

Families who still have stocks of fresh strawberries kept in their freezers, which were bought at supermarkets like Walmart or Trader Joe's between March and April, are advised not to eat or use these as food ingredients anymore after a reported outbreak of Hepatitis A in the U.S. and Canada.

While the batches are no longer sold in stores for more than a month, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as well as the Canadian health agency, have issued a warning about the risks, especially if there are still frozen supplies from labels like FreshKampo or HEB in some households.

Here's what families need to know and how they can ensure their safety from the disease.

1. Throw away your stocks.

There's no point in keeping the strawberries stocked in the freezer, especially with more than two dozen reported illnesses and 12 hospitalizations for Hepatitis A in recent weeks. The experts said that if moms or dads can no longer recall the brand they bought, it's still more prudent to throw these away than to risk acquiring the disease.

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Food safety professor Darin Detwiler said via Northeastern that some parents may think washing will help "clean" the fruit so they could still eat it and not waste money. However, he pointed out that strawberries do not have a smooth surface, which means that the virus might not easily wash off and could hide very well in between those creases, rough spots and bumps.

2. Monitor the symptoms.

Hepatitis A symptoms may manifest between the 15th to the 50th day after eating a contaminated batch of strawberries. With such a long window, parents wh have served this fruit to their families should monitor for symptoms like nausea and vomiting, frequent fatigue, dark or pale urine, light gray poop, abdominal pain and jaundice.

Kids under 6 years old may not show any symptoms of Hepatitis A but they can still spread the infection to others, especially to the most vulnerable members of the family, such as the grandparents. If this is the case, the vulnerable may likely feel unwell for many weeks. Some may have the symptoms for up to six months, per Kids Health.

This disease is highly contagious but will usually not lead to chronic liver damage. However, older adults in the family will still have to be protected. So, as with any health and safety protocol, everyone in the family must remember to always wash and sanitize their hands and practice good hygiene to limit the spread. A family member who is showing symptoms must be isolated.

3. Get tested just to be sure.

Getting tested for the virus will provide some peace of mind. Doctors will do a blood test and determine the health and status of the liver during the clinic visit. Unfortunately, there is no specific cure for Hepatitis A and the infection will usually relieve itself.

4. Get vaccinated against Hepatitis A.

The experts also recommend vaccination against Hepatitis A. Per the CDC, any person above 12 months old may be vaccinated. Kids between 2 to 18 years old may also have a "catch up" vaccination. The vaccines are guaranteed highly effective and safe. Since 1995, millions of these vaccines were administered in the U.S. without any major side effects.

Related Article: North Carolina Family Enraged as Newborn Vaccinated Without Consent for Hepatitis B
A new report today states that a major piece of legislation that could reshape the tech industry is just a few steps away from becoming federal law. But advocates fear that if congressional leadership doesnt usher it through before the midterms, or at least the end of the year, it could die.

The American Innovation and Choice Online Act, a Senate bill that closely resembles an earlier House version, advanced out of the Judiciary Committee earlier this year by a wide margin.

Known among staff and lawmakers as the self-preferencing or anti-discrimination bill, the legislation would prohibit dominant tech platforms like Amazon, Apple and Google from giving preferential treatment to their own services in marketplaces they operate.

Advocates feel theres little time to spare. They cite the probability that with Republican control of the House following the November vote, the party would follow current caucus leaders who have signaled that antitrust reform would be a lower priority. In the digital space, Republican House leaders have been focused more on content moderation and privacy issues.

Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y. asked U.S. Senate Rules and Administration Committee Chair Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), the bills lead sponsor alongside Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, to release the latest version of the text that has input from members on both sides over the next couple of weeks, and Klobuchar released the latest language last Wednesday. Schumer told the pair he fully supports the bill and is committed to putting it on the floor for a vote by early summer, according to the source.

The bills sponsors have attempted to address some of the concerns through more explicit privacy defenses. But its skeptics were critical of the latest version Klobuchars office released late last month, which added language to exempt the telecom industry (a sector that had not been the initial intended target) and did not address content-moderation worries.

Instead of making the bill better, Senator Klobuchar added preferential carveouts for telcos and Wall Street in order to win Republican votes, Adam Kovacevich, CEO of tech-backed center-left group Chamber of Progress, said in a statement.

One Democratic aide described a conversation with a bill sponsor as more briefing style ... rather than an honest negotiation about members concerns.

Tech opposition

Advocates for the bills and congressional staff said tech leaders were quiet ahead of the House markup, then started lobbying more intensely once they knew what it would look like.

Those who seek to educate congressional offices on the bills say techs fingerprints are clear through the talking points echoed by staff.

Jesse Lehrich, co-founder of Accountable Tech stated: By the time that we were engaging with congressional offices theyd heard from like 12 people from industry. You could tell who they talked to just from the things that theyre raising.

Lehrich said advocates for the bills would end up spending the first 30 minutes debunking talking points from Facebook and Amazon and Apple and Google. But he said the way the tech lobbyists have been out in full force ... in a weird way is almost encouraging.

Before the House markup there was this sense that this was all like a pipe dream, Lehrich said, noting how many tech firms would mainly speak through their trade groups against the bills. Now, even Apple CEO Tim Cook has spoken against the bills.

Lehrich said Apples lobbying has so far seemed to be the most persuasive to lawmakers with lingering concerns about the legislation, in part because its maintained a greater sense of credibility in Washington than some of its peers.

When Facebook or Amazon make baseless sky-is-falling attacks, theres little to say besides, thats just patently false, Lehrich said in an email. When Apple makes esoteric arguments about serious security risks of sideloading, you need compelling substantive pushback to allay lawmakers concerns.

Apples CEO Tim Cook spoke at the Global Privacy Summit in April about how governments were not understanding the security issues surrounding sideloading.

The CNBC report further noted that A source in a GOP office said the industry is also using the tactic of directing lawmakers to focus on other issues that are more contentious, such as reforming Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which gives companies the right to moderate user-generated content.

Facebook runs ads for Section 230 reform, so that should tell you everything you need to know about what they want, the source said. And with some of these other groups, theyre trying to pitch anything to harm Big Tech as a threat to national security. But I think most Republicans would agree that Big Tech is a threat to national security and small businesses.

Rep. Ken Buck of Colorado, the top Republican on the House Judiciary subcommittee on antitrust and one of the chief champions for the bills stated: I think there will be antitrust legislation passed in the next Congress, regardless of which party is in power. I think that the legislation would look somewhat different if Republicans are in, but I think a majority of the Republicans in the House conference now recognize the threat of Big Tech.

There's a lot more to this report and you could read it all at CNBC.
Starsight Energy, a leading African commercial & industrial solar power supplier with a significant presence in Ghana, has been ranked the fastest growing solar and renewable energy company in Africa by the Financial Times (FT).



According to the FT, in its inaugural ranking of Africas fastest-growing companies in 2022, Starsight is the sixth fastest growing company in Africa and the first energy and renewable energy on the list. The rankings show that Starsight made tremendous progress since its inception in 2015. The companys revenues in 2020 stood at US$8.886million as compared to its revenues in 2017 which was at US$0.832million.



Currently, its absolute growth is 1154.403 percent and a compound annual growth rate of 132.351 percent. Staff strength of Starsight stood at 42 in 2017 but increased to 108 in 2020, hence making it to the fastest growing company rankings by FT.



With more than 51MW of solar power installed in West Africa as at the end of 2021, the pan-African renewable energy company operates in three regions in Africa: West, East and South Africa with a clear plan to be in other regions.

Managing Director for Starsight Energy Ghana, Emmanuel Ayifa Baah in an interview with the B&FT described the feat as humbling.



It is humbling but at the same time it is a recognition of the hard work the team has put in place over the period. It is just natural that you get rewarded when you do solve a problem. It is humbling to know that what you are doing to help companies Go Green whiles saving them on electricity cost & carbon emissions has been recognised on a global scale.



When you have a business operating the previous year only in Nigeria and just a year plus down the line, you have operations in Ghana, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and then into South Africa, obviously that is a major leap from one location to all of these locations, Mr. Ayifa Baah said.



Operations in Ghana



Delving deeper into the companys operations in Ghana, Mr. Ayifa Baah explained that there is some 10MW of solar power under deployment for commercial and industrial institutions with over 50percent installed. The bulk of our installations are in Accra but we have installations in Kumasi, and some parts of the Eastern Region, he said.

Mr. Ayifa Baah, striking an optimistic tone, said by the end of 2022, Starsight Energy Ghana is seeking to have more than 10MW installed for Commercial & Industrial clients.



The call to adopt solar as a more sustainable power option



With the recent request for increment in electricity tariffs as a result of a general increase in generation cost of utility companies, Mr. Baah urged consumers, especially commercial and industrial users of power, to look at solar as a more sustainable option. When you go solar, you save money and protect the environment at the same time, he said, adding that at Starsight, their lease-to-own package lead to consumers saving at least 15 to 45 percent of their monthly electricity bills.



We run a lease-to-own model. We build the solar plant at our cost, we maintain it at our cost, you just pay for using the plant and while you are paying, you are acquiring it. Our contracts start from five years and if you want a contract for over 10 years, we can, we are very flexible with our options.



You do not incur any additional cost; you are still paying your monthly utility at a reduced amount and yet get to own the plant within a number of years. Our target starts from 15 percent reduction in your tariff all the way to 45 percent per kilowatts hour savings on electricity cost, Mr. Ayifa Baah added.







Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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UNCTAD in collaboration with African Union and German corporations has organized a two-day workshop on the contribution of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) to economic diversification in Africa in the context of AfCFTA at Labadi Beach Hotel on the 2nd and 3rd day of June 2022.



The workshop dubbed Special Economic Zones In Ghana As A Tool For Industrialization And Diversification aimed to share best practices on special economic zones development and to contribute to the process of the implementation of the AfCFATA.



The workshop also provided a platform for the diverse stakeholder community to discuss the role special economic zones can play in the economic diversification of the continent and supporting regional integration.



Participants included government representatives from several African countries, experts and practitioners as well as private sector executives and pan-African organizations.



The workshop presented the main lessons learned from the development of SEZs in Africa and the implementation of SEZs targeted policies.



It addressed the key factors that contribute to the success of zones through the evaluation of key success stories in the continent.



The workshop also covered mainstreaming of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into the development of SEZs policy with a focus on labour and environmental practices.



The event also served as a platform for discussion on regional integration and the implementation of the AfCFTA.



The two-day workshop covered a high-level panel discussion, presentations of the findings of the handbook to a diverse audience of policymakers and practitioners as well as academic training sessions and SEZs visits.



Remarks by Hon. Alan Kyerematen, Minister of Trade and Industry at the workshop, stated; SEZs are increasingly playing a key role in Africas industrial transformation and economic growth while many challenges lay ahead, these zones can play a tremendous role in the development of the African continent under the Africa Continental Free Trade Area Agreement.



He further said; Technology and innovation play a critical role in transforming an economy. Africa is lagging in terms of innovation and technology. SEZs through FDI act as a mode through which improvement and implementation of innovative technology. There is also the transfer of knowledge between local and foreign counterparts in execution of duties. Therefore, the dynamic benefits that come with spatial development can help in achieving the objective of AfCFTA and in ensuring structural transformation in the continent.



Similarly, although the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement is set to impact SEZs on the continent significantly, there is a lack of research and policy guidance on how zones can adjust to the new regulatory environment.



If Africa is seriously considering adopting the SEZ model for development, policy adjustments are urgently needed. The current state of affairs will not spur industrialization and promote Africas active participation in global trade.



To achieve this, there is the need for a strong long-term vision and institutional support for the success of SEZs and development in Africa coupled with effective cooperation between different levels of government agencies and the private sector.



Furthermore, SEZs are known to increase domestic and foreign direct investment (FDI) in economies due to their distinct regulatory regime and incentives. It is estimated that FDI inflows increased in Africa by 11% in 2018 and 80% and 60% of FDI inflows in 2018 to Egypt and Nigeria respectively are directed to the SEZs.



He urged all participants to assist in maintaining a disciplined focus on the agenda to ensure that, at the end of the workshop, they will have a practical appreciation of the importance of SEZs to the economic diversification in Africa in the context of AfCFTA.



Delivering a keynote speech, H.E. Amb. Michael Oquaye, CEO Of Ghana Free Zones Authority, also said; Africa is endowed with many natural resources and every country can boast of some dominant resource. There is therefore a great opportunity to leverage the resources we have to benefit from economies of scale and become competitive as a continent.



AfCFTA is a major initiative to enhance structural transformation and improve the competitiveness of African industrial products.



It is generally agreed that the opportunities generated by deeper regional integration will not fully materialize unless African countries develop productive capabilities, enabling them to take advantage of economic complementarities between their economies and this is the reason the SEZs are crucial to the industrialization drive of Africa.



For the SEZs to succeed however there is the need to develop productive capacity by attracting firms in strategic sectors and industries. This will be the strategic focus of the Ghana SEZ as well as developing regional and continental value chains.



In this regard, the initiatives our parent Ministry is undertaking includes the site assessment of government land banks including the Greater Kumasi Industrial Park Project, the Sekondi EPZ, the Yabiw ( Shama) EPZ, the Busila Land Bank and the Salvelugu Land Bank. Plans are also far advanced to create SEZs for the Automobile, Pharmaceutical, Agro processing and ICT sectors as well as building Business Incubation centers.



Another bold step of the government is the establishment of the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation with the mandate to create a petroleum hub SEZ on a 20,000 acre land at Jomoro in the Western Region of Ghana.The GFZA has also signed a PPP Agreement with a private developer to develop the Sekondi SEZ.



For Africa, the future of SEZs after COVID probably lies in the success of AfCFTA. There is therefore the need for Africa to look within and be self-reliant using the competitive advantages of countries to produce goods that can be traded within Africa. There is also the need to focus more on developing local businesses and increasing the local raw material production base in the development of SEZs. Development of the local raw material production base is crucial in meeting the requirements of the rules of origin to be able to trade under AfCFTA.



I can confidently say that Ghana as a whole, the Ministry of Trade and Industry and the GFZA specifically, is on the path to putting in place the necessary policies to take advantage of the AfCFTA Agreement. This workshop will provide further clarity on the steps to take to make us more effective in implementing the strategies at the Secretariat levels.



Looking at the concept note for the workshop, it aims to present the main lessons learned from the development of SEZs in Africa, the implementation of SEZs targeted policies, the key factors that contribute to the success of zones through the evaluation of key success stories in the continent, and the mainstreaming of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into the development of SEZs policies with a focus on labor and environmental practices. The workshop is also expected to serve as a platform for discussions on regional integration and the implementation of the AfCFTA, he added.











Source: Josephine Acheampomaa/[email protected]









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Gunmen attacked a Catholic church in southwestern Nigeria's Ondo state during mass on Sunday, killing several people, local media reported.



A doctor at a hospital in Owo, a town in the state in Nigeria's southwest, told Reuters that "several worshippers were brought in dead".



Funmilayo Ibukun Odunlami, police spokesperson for Ondo state, said "there was an incident today at the Saint Francis Catholic Church in Owo" and police would issue a statement soon.



Local media said gunmen had fired at worshippers and detonated explosives at the church.



Africa's most populous country has witnessed attacks and kidnappings for ransom by armed gangs, mostly in its northwest. Such attacks are rare in southwestern Nigeria.



Ondo state governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu said he was heading back to the state from the capital Abuja after the "unprovoked attack and killing of innocent people of Owo."



"We shall commit every available resource to hunt down these assailants and make them pay," he said in a statement.

Source: REUTERS









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Prague/New Delhi, June 5 (UNI) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who is visiting the Czech Republic, on Sunday began his engagement in Prague by meeting a delegation of European Union Members of Parliament.

They had a good discussion on Indias ties with the EU and the Czech Republic, the Indo-Pacific, and on food and energy security.

The EAM tweeted

Began my engagements in Prague by meeting a delegation of Czech MEPs.

A good discussion on India's ties with EU and the Czech Republic, the Indo-Pacific, food and energy security and digital cooperation.

He thanked the participating MEPs, Jan Zahradil, Tomas Zdechovsky, Veronika Vrecionova for taking time out on a Sunday to meet him.

The EAM in visiting the Czech Republic from June 4-6.

EAM is to hold discussions with Jan Lipavsky, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic. The discussions will provide an opportunity for a comprehensive review of our bilateral cooperation.

The Czech Republic will be taking over the EU Presidency from July 1.

In addition to meeting the political leadership of the two countries, EAM will also interact with a cross-section of the diaspora, including Indian students in Slovakia and the Czech Republic.

The EAMs visit will impart further momentum to bilateral relations with the two Central European countries, an official statement said earlier.

UNI RN
A member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), SaCut Denis Amenga-Etego says its totally wrong to stage a demonstration against the government with guns.



According to him, the idea for the June 4 armed demo may have another twist if the organizers are allowed to proceed.



Some leaders of the pressure group, #Fixthecountry are seeking clearance to hold a three-day protest starting June 4 against the Akufo-Addo-led government



The group had informed police that they will be employing their own security personnel and will be armed, in order to protect the marchers.



But SaCut Denis Amenga-Etego who had joined the group and their previous demonstration seem not to support their proposed armed demo.



Arms takes on a different meaning when we want to win the hearts and minds of the people against a tyrannical government, he told the group in a statement copied to Peacefmonline.com.



Adding that, The pen is mightier than the gun. Dont these so-called intellectuals know this? Or they just got confused for a second?



Read below statement



Fixing The Country With Arms Of Conviction



Mr Kwesi Pratt and company, who wined and dined with the radically extreme left all over the world from Cuba to Bolivia to Iran etc and learned their ways of social and political mobilization for political action - even they never contemplated the idea of an armed demonstration on the streets of Ghana.



Obviously, they understood the mood and acceptably chosen methods of the people in their activism. They were not confused - not even for a second. And thats why they had a massive following, at least, until they faded out on the streets and stationed themselves in the studios.



Political action requires strategic thinking along with the masses of the people. Once there is confusion about the strategic political goal of a movement, the group is reduced to a vehicle for misguided self-promotional gimmicks.



Arms takes on a different meaning when we want to win the hearts and minds of the people against a tyrannical government.



We need to be armed with the conviction of principles. Armed with social and scientific research and investigative tools to being able to know the exact mood of the masses at every point in time and the prevailing ills of the government. We need to be armed with the truth.



We must also be armed with a moral high ground. In other words, the integrity of the leaders of any street protest is more inviting to the masses than guns and bullets.



The pen is mightier than the gun. Dont these so-called intellectuals know this? Or did they just got confused for a second?



Street protest is a tool for psychological warfare to undermine the prevailing psychology which is out of manufactured consent exposing the ills of government and carrying the people along in an effort to wake up the spirit and sense of people-power among the masses.



The end game is mass resistance to the establishment. A man's resistance leads to a dead end.



The last time, I and many others were on the street with #FixTheCountry organizers to lend our arms of a collective voice to the mass resistance of the establishment.



There are no doubts in the masses about a clearly misguided leadership after their call for arms on the street. And this is where the group may have to fix itself and come again!



SaCut Denis Amenga-Etego

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.

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Collins Adomako Mensah, Member of Parliament (MP) for Afigya Kwabre North, has rubbished the apology by the conveners of the FixtheCountry Movement regarding their withheld June 4th demostration.



The Conveners comprising broadcasters; Captain Smart, Okatakyie Afrifa and the FixtheCountry activist, Oliver Baker-Vormawor have come under intense bashing from the public following their letter to the Police for permission to embarking on demonstration wielding guns and be alloted a slot on GTV to address the nation.



Although they claim their demands are a part of their advocacy to fix the country, their approach is however seen to reek of insurgence, as a result, they have been restricted from embarking on the demonstration.



Following the public outburst against their letter, the conveners have released an apology letter in which they explain why they made the demands.



Portions of the letter read; "The notification of the demonstration made reference to private security arrangements to protect demonstrators. We also informed the Police that we will ensure that any weapons held by the private security company or other demonstrators will be legally registered under the relevant law.



"In our attempt to strategically highlight policing brutality and other problematic crowd control tactics, we chose an advocacy approach that made some people uncomfortable. For that, we unreservedly apologize to the public, especially our supporters. We wish to reiterate that #Fixthecountry is a movement committed to peaceful democratic accountability."



They added; In this moment of clarity, we wish to recommit to actively ensuring that our activities and all attendees will be kept safe. We also recommit to continue fighting for victims of Police brutality who we intend to keep at the centre of our work.



Speaking to host Nana Yaw Kesseh on Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" programme, Collins Adomako Mensah questioned the motives of the conveners.



He sought to find out how they intended to ensure all weapons to the demonstration grounds were licenced and how they hoped to keep the people safe.



To him, the apology from the FixtheCountry is ridiculous.



"What's the meaning of this letter? Is this your apology? That when you wrote a letter to Ghana Police on 29th May and you will be going on demonstration on 4th June, how are you going to legally register the weapons of the demonstrators? Within four days or five days?" he questioned.







Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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2022 WSOP Featured Females: Katie Kopp Becomes Bally's First-Ever Bracelet Winner

June 03, 2022 Jon Sofen Senior Editor U.S.

This past week, Katie Kopp, a traveling poker dealer, won the 2022 World Series of Poker (WSOP) Event #1: $500 Casino Employees No-Limit Hold'em for $65,168. In doing so, she became the answer to what will surely become an interesting trivia question.

The first bracelet winner of 2022 is also the first bracelet winner at Bally's, the brand new home of the World Series of Poker. Every year the question is asked how many female players will capture a bracelet, so many were thrilled to see it happen right off the bat.

100% of the WSOP bracelets won in Paris/Ballys have been won by a woman. # Congratulations, Katie Kopp! #WSOP  Rachel Kay (@_RKMusic_)

Kopp, a mother of two, spoke with PokerNews following her life-changing win.

"I was also the first one to get knocked out of a tournament here at Bally's," Kopp said with a laugh, referring to busting the Casino Employees event right off the bat on her first bullet. "I got knocked out the third hand and then I rebought."

Rebuying turned out to be a smart play for the poker dealer as she spun that stack up into the first of 88 gold bracelets to be won at Bally's this summer.

Poker Dealer from Cleveland

Kopp, who travels to play poker and deal with her mother, also reached the final table in this same event back in 2018. She finished in third place for $26,250 that year. This time around, she performed even stronger, although she had to overcome a short stack at the final table, making her victory even more impressive.

"I started off 10 years ago, I used to deal in Cleveland, Ohio back when it was Horseshoe Cleveland when they first opened up, and then I quit a few years after that," Kopp said of her poker dealing experience.

The bracelet winner decided to quit her job in Cleveland as a dealer so she could play poker more often, but she still continues to travel to deal cards, working various tournament series. She spent five years living in Tampa, Florida but has recently moved back up north to Cleveland.

"Me and my mom travel, and we mostly deal at Hard Rock Hollywood (in South Florida) four times a year," Kopp explained.

Kopp has dealt the WSOP in the past but had no plans to do so this year "because I just wanted to come out here (to Las Vegas) and play a few events."

She isn't staying in Las Vegas the entire summer but will come back out in a few weeks to chase another bracelet. Kopp entered Event #5: $500 The Housewarming No-Limit Hold'em less than 12 hours after she shipped her bracelet. The luck wasn't on her side in that tournament and she made a quick exit.

Mother-Daughter Relationship

Kopp's supportive mother was in attendance to cheer for and celebrate with her at the final table of the Casino Employees event. Both women are avid poker enthusiasts. But who is the better poker player?

"She's got the bracelet," Kopp's mom answered with a smile.

That settles it then. Kopp is a first in many ways. As mentioned, she is the first to win a bracelet this year and at Bally's. She's also the first woman to win a bracelet in 2022 and the first woman to win the Casino Employees event.

Kopp now has over $108,000 in lifetime live tournament cashes recorded by Hendon Mob. More importantly, she's now a World Series of Poker bracelet winner, something that can never be taken away.

2022 World Series of Poker Hub Bookmark this page! All you need to know about the 2022 WSOP is here. Click here

Sharelines Get to know Katie Kopp (@PlantsPoker) the winner of the first ever @WSOP bracelet at Bally's.
The Muck: Christoph Vogelsang's Tanking Reignites Shot Clock Debate

June 05, 2022 Jon Sofen Senior Editor U.S.

PokerGO subscribers watching the WSOP Event #6: $25,000 Heads-Up No-Limit Hold'em final day were on tilt over the incessant tanking by runner-up Christoph Vogelsang, causing some to call for a shot clock in bracelet events.

The German high roller was denied his first bracelet by Dan Smith, who had long been dubbed one of the best, if not the best, to have never won a World Series of Poker title.

Smith finally got off the schneid in what was his 47th WSOP cash and took home $509,717. But the larger discussion within the poker community from that high stakes event has been more focused on the repetitive tanking by the runner-up, and it's also the topic of our newest edition of The Muck.

2022 WSOP Bracelet Winner Piles On

Two days after winning his fourth bracelet, Scott Seiver was none too thrilled with the behavior of Vogelsang at the heads-up final table. He lashed out on social media, even suggesting the runner-up's act was an angle-shoot.

what Vogelsang is doing in this (and every) tournament is at a minimum angleshooting (exploiting loopholes in rules https://t.co/S6noabttMm  Scott Seiver (@scott_seiver)

Seiver, who lost an $800,000 match on High Stakes Duel to Phil Hellmuth last month, was far from the only poker pro tilted over the tanking.

"Dan should start clocking him every action now," David Williams wrote.

"Imagine not calling clock every hand," Ryan Riess, the 2013 WSOP Main Event champ, tweeted.

"How is he gaining an edge from what he is doing," Will Jaffe questioned.

Despite the public outcry, Vogelsang didn't break any rules. In most high roller events around the world, a shot clock is in place to minimize tanking, but not in the heads-up event. Smith, however, had a right to call the clock on his opponent but never did. Hence, why Vogelsang was permitted to continue tanking repeatedly just about every time action was on him.

The competitive, back-and-forth match lasted over four hours, partially due to the constant tanking.

Does the WSOP Need a Shot Clock?

There were numerous poker fans on social media suggesting all high rollers at the WSOP should implement a 30-second shot clock going forward. Others encouraged Smith to call the clock on his oppoennt.

If you have Christoph Vogelsang at your table this WSOP, Please call the clock on him relentlessly. We need to put https://t.co/B3yEtT0VVo  Francis Anderson (@FrancisPoker123)

"Vogelsang should be banned from the wsop," Matt Salsberg suggested.

"The wsop should ban Vogelsang for his ridiculous tanking. He is bad for business, just like a blackjack card counter is," Codd Shedd (@CodyShedd) echoed Salsberg's sentiments.

Vogelsang tanking for 2+ minutes as FIRST TO ACT with JJ on a 9 high board is so gross. This kind of stuff is bad f https://t.co/wdR7ptpJav  Noah Gray (@NoahGray457)

"I would call the clock on Vogelsang every street," Farah Galfond tweeted.

"We're tanking till Monday in honor of Vogelsang making the finals," Matt Berkey joked about the next Only Friends podcast.

Vogelsang Explains Why He Tanks

If you were expecting PokerGO's announcers to defend the tanking, you'd be wrong. Brent Hanks expressed frustration during the stream in the semifinals against Kevin Rabichow.

[email protected] is giving Vogelsang the business for his excessive tanking on @PokerGO. Im here for it. https://t.co/F5Qkxgi2Zn  Johnnie VIBS (@JohnnieVibes)

"He has yet to act, my god, I would throw something," Hanks said while Vogelsang took his merry little time to act.

Jeff Platt interviewed both finalists following the match and directly asked Vogelsang why he tanks so frequently.

"You can probably see from my tanking that probably one of my weaknesses is that I'm somewhat indecisive," Vogelsang answered. "Even in life, I might think a little longer how to make a decision, and so that probably transfers to poker. Whenever I can, I'll try to make an effort to play fast."

Vogelsang's tanking wasn't the only aspect of his game that irked PokerGO viewers. His attire  a gray hoody that covered most of his face at times  was also a topic of criticism.

2022 World Series of Poker Hub Bookmark this page! All you need to know about the 2022 WSOP is here. Click here

Sharelines Find out what poker fans thought of the incessant tanking at the @WSOP by Christoph Vogelsang.
Those with student loans who work in government and nonprofit jobs were given a huge opportunity for loan relief in October, when the feds finally resolved some longstanding problems with the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.

However, for more than 550,000 borrowers some action is needed  an application deadline is just months away  and even those who are very familiar with the loan process could be facing uncertainty.

Kristin Bastian was one of those people. She's the Operations Director at Origin SC, a nonprofit group in North Charleston that provides financial counseling on a variety of subjects.

Bastian thought she still had more than two years of payments remaining until she would qualify for the PSLF program to forgive her remaining student loan debt. The 2007 program was created to incentivize workers to take public service jobs, like Bastian's, by offering to wipe out remaining student loan debt after 10 years of such employment and 120 monthly loan payments.

For years, the program was a disaster, marked by byzantine rules, loan servicers that "systematically misled borrowers" according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and during the Trump administration a Department of Education that took a particularly hard line on student loan relief.

Until last year, fewer than 2 percent of those who applied for loan forgiveness were approved.

Understandably, many people gave up hope of getting what they had been promised. But in October 2021 the Department of Education announced new procedures and rules changes, a key one giving borrowers credit for loan payments that hadn't been counted before.

For Bastian, the result was the surprising news that her student loans were being forgiven years earlier than she had expected, saving her about $10,000 in expected monthly payments.

It can be a very stressful and confusing process," she said. "I thought I had another two or three years of payments."

The good news came after she submitted a routine PSLF form certifying her employment with a non-profit organization.

"At first, they added to my qualified payments, and I was on track to be done this July," Bastian said. "Then, they came back and said I met the qualifications and just needed to submit a final application for forgiveness."

When the rules changed in October about 22,000 borrowers in public service jobs immediately had their remaining loan balances wiped away. Roughly 550,000 others needed to apply for waivers to get credit for loan payments made but not counted.

Here's the official wording:

"Under the new temporary rules, any prior period of repayment will count as a qualifying payment, regardless of loan program, repayment plan, or whether the payment was made in full or on time. But you do continue to need qualifying employment."

"This change will apply to borrowers with Direct Loans, those who have already consolidated into the Direct Loan Program, and those who consolidate into the Direct Loan Program by Oct. 31, 2022."

For the average borrower, those rule changes should result in 23 months of additional payments being counted, out of the 120 needed, according to the Department of Education.

If you have student loans and a public service job, but find this process confusing, here's one option. Origin SC (843-628-3000), where Bastian works, offers student loan counseling for a one-time $60 fee.

Information about Public Service Loan Forgiveness is also available online at studentaid.gov.
By Azernews





By Laman Ismayilova

Spectacular fashion show "AFFFAIR in Carpets" and presentation of carpets have been held in Baku.

The large-scale event took place at the Heydar Aliyev Center with the support of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, Azernews reports.

Inspired by Azerbaijani carpets, in particular, from the Karabagh carpet school, the project focuses at preserving the historic traditions in contemporary ways.

The fashion show featured magnificent dresses designed by acclaimed national designer Rufat Ismayil. The fashion collection was designed on the basis of Azerbaijani carpet motifs.

For many centuries, the carpet-weaving art has been passed down from generation to generation in Azerbaijan. Diverse carpet motifs have always given impetus to creative ideas and art works.

The Heydar Aliyev Foundation successfully implements a number of projects to support, preserve and promote Azerbaijan's carpet-weaving worldwide.

In 2010, the Azerbaijani carpet art was included into the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of UNESCO.

Entered on UNESCO's list, the national traditional carpet-making art again draws attention to new projects.

Speaking at the event, the Board Chairman of Azerkhalcha OJSC Emin Mammadov stressed that Azerbaijani carpet weaving has a long history.

"Azerbaijani carpet weaving has a long history, being a classic art. Each type of art, including carpet art, is on the path of development and search for new ideas realized in collaboration with designers and conceptual artists. Thanks to this, we are implementing new projects to preserve and Azerkhalcha OJSC works presented here, created on the basis of five well-known carpet motifs, have been produced in a limited number of 25 copies. In the new project, we created harmony and synthesis of ancient traditions and modern trends," he said.

The fashion show included 50 dresses from the collections "Sumakh Haute Couture" and "Sumakh Affordable Luxury".

So far, the fashion collection Sumakh Haute Couture" has been previously demonstrated in Paris and Moscow. The collection "Sumakh Affordable Luxur" was presented in Baku for the first time.

Art works created on the basis of five famous carpet motifs included in the collection are especially remarkable.

The carpet "Folding-unfolding" is remarkable among Karabagh carpets for their artistic features, being a part of the set of patterns related to the series of "Folding-unfolding" carpets.

Elements of another artwork, remarkable for its beauty, originate from the Karabakh carpet. Seeming to be composed of repeated elements from the first sight, this composition scatters about as a myriad of stars.

The art work called "Nakhchivan" was created from various elements of a carpet, an example of the Karabakh carpet school, and new composition by using patterns of the Khatai and Chalabi carpets.

The artist was inspirated by the elements of Hunting carpets (Karabakh carpet school) and used elements of the composition "Band-Rumi", which has been widely seen in Azerbaijani and the Near East art schools. As a result, he created a beatiful artistic composition with a lattice content.

The art work "Pazyryk" took its source from the carpet of the same name related to the Turkic ancestry and is considered the oldest carpet in the world (dating back to 2500 years), preserved at the Russian Hermitage Museum.
Indian envoy in Doha summoned over controversial tweet by BJP leader on Prophet Mohammed

Doha/New Delhi, June 5 (UNI) Even as Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu is visiting Qatar, a controversial tweet on Prophet Mohammed by a BJP functionary led to the Qatari Foreign Ministry summoning the Indian envoy Deepak Mittal to protest the remarks. The Indian ambassador conveyed that the tweets do not, in any manner, reflect the views of the Government of India, and these are the views of fringe elements.

The Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Deepak Mittal and handed him an official note, expressing the disappointment of the State of Qatar and its total rejection and condemnation to the controversial remarks made by an official in the ruling party in India against Prophet Mohammed, Islam and Muslims.

Soltan bin Saad Al-Muraikhi, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of the State, handed this note to the Ambassador of the Republic of India.
Charleston, SC (29403)

Today

Partly cloudy with a slight chance of thunderstorms. High near 85F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

A few clouds. Low 74F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph.
Candidates for South Carolinas top education job will face their first hurdle during the states primary on June 14.

Ten candidates remain in the race for state superintendent of education. Voters will have the opportunity to filter through nine of those candidates in the Democratic and Republican fields with the primary. Patricia Mickel, the sole candidate running on the Green Party ticket, will be a part of the general election in November 2022.

Molly Spearman, the current superintendent, decided not to pursue another term after her eight years in the position. Whoever takes up her mantle will have to tackle poor teacher retention rates, learning gaps exacerbated by the pandemic, and students mental health needs.

Meanwhile, education has become increasingly politicized. Many school districts have seen community members upset about mask mandates and vaccine requirements. Others have called for the banning of books that supposedly teach critical race theory, the academic framework that examines the racism embedded in public policy and legal institutions in the United States. (The analysis is not taught typically in K-12 curriculums, but rather at law schools).

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Six of the candidates vying for the job are Republicans. Ellen Weaver, the head of the conservative think tank Palmetto Promise Institute, leads in fundraising, having taken in $327,028.91. Many of her donors include GOP politicians and school choice advocates. Truist bank group president and current gubernatorial appointee on the state Board of Education Mike Brenan; Meeting Street Schools founder Ben Navarro; and former U.S. Sen. Jim DeMint, who Weaver worked for many years, all donated to her bid for superintendent, according to campaign filings.

In addition to her work at the Palmetto Promise Institute, Weaver is a member of the states education watchdog agency, the South Carolina Education Oversight Committee. She was first appointed to the board in 2016 and chaired it from 2019 to 2021.

Despite a law requiring state superintendent candidates to hold a masters degree, Weaver does not have one. She was previously enrolled in an online program through Western Governors University for a masters in leadership but has since switched to a program at Bob Jones University, where she received her undergraduate degree, the AP reported.

Weaver is a long-time advocate of using tax money to help parents pay for private tuition as well as public school choice options such as open enrollment and charter schools. She also wants to give tax credits for homeschooling, raise teacher salaries to the national average within five years, expand apprenticeship opportunities and career and technical education experiences, and reject any mask and vaccine requirements in schools.

Ive seen how the process in Columbia works firsthand, she said in an interview with The Post and Courier in late February. I understand what is necessary to work constructively with the governor and the General Assembly in order to make the changes that need to be made.

Weaver did not return the paper's request for comment for this story.

Lowcountry businessman Travis Bedson ranks after Weaver in funds. He has collected $282,310, which includes the $250,000 he took out in loans.

Like Weaver, he doesnt hold a masters but is pursuing an advanced degree in leadership at Western Governors University. He was previously enrolled in an online master's program for industrial organizational psychology through Capella University.

Bedson is the head of construction company CNT Foundations and also has never been a teacher. He doesn't believe he needs that experience for the role of superintendent.

It's not about being a teacher or having teacher credentials, it's about executive leadership, Bedson said.

He has seen some of his companys employees who graduated from South Carolina schools struggle with concepts as basic as reading or simple subtraction. As the father of two young children, he was spurred to run because he had concerns about the education landscape in the state.

He wants to push for more vocational learning after seeing how South Carolina recruited companies such as Boeing, Volvo and BMW to set up in the state.

Palmetto State Teachers Association head Kathy Maness follows Weaver and Bedson with $115,638.14 in donations. Unlike the two candidates ahead of her in money, Maness already has a masters degree and has also worked as a teacher.

Among Maness top priorities are teacher recruitment and retention. She plans on raising salaries to address these issues. She also supports school choice policies, strengthening career and technical education programs, and working on school safety plans with police and sheriffs.

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Maness said she had concerns about Weavers and Bedsons qualifications for the job, from the lack of degrees to their lack of school experience. She also called the Republican Partys support of Weavers campaign inappropriate for the primary.

With my experience and qualifications, I am ready on day one to recruit and retain teachers by reducing paperwork and testing and restoring discipline to our classrooms so teachers can teach and students can learn, she said.

Florence School District One board member Bryan Chapman is a pastor with two masters degrees. He has worked in religious education and also wants to make sure students who dont go to college are ready for careers out of high school, as he discussed during his campaign announcement back in April. Hes raised $63,450.28.

Greenville County school board member Lynda Leventis-Wells said she feels energized and positive going into the primary. She is a former teacher who has a masters degree and taught in the state and abroad. She shares many of the same priorities as her other Republican candidates including promoting school choice and being against masks, vaccines and critical race theory. Leventis-Wells has taken in $22,773.47.

Lexington elementary school teacher Kizzi Gibson said she wants to encourage teacher retention and recruitment by providing more mentorship and professional development. She wants to implement the 1776 curriculum, a collection of teaching material about U.S. history from Hillsdale College, which many have labeled as the conservative response to critical race theory. Shes for school choice and wants to address the funding for transportation so students can get to the schools they choose.

Gibson, who has a doctoral degree in online learning, has raised $22,641.91.

On the other side, three Democratic candidates, all with advanced degrees, are running for superintendent. All have experience in the education sphere in South Carolina.

Rep. Jerry Govan Jr., who is retiring from the state Legislature after nearly 30 years, previously worked as the Orangeburg County attendance supervisor. He leads the group of Democratic candidates in fundraising with $31,477.41.

Like other candidates, he wants to work on teacher pay and wants to increase the floor for first-year teachers to $60,000. The state-required minimum salary for beginning teachers is currently $36,000, though legislators are set to raise that to either $38,000 or $40,000 in the budget currently in negotiations. Govan also wants to examine teacher quality, facilities and school infrastructure.

Not far behind Govan is Lisa Ellis, a teacher of 21 years and the founder of the teacher organization SC for Ed who has taken in $28,414.50.

Among her policy stances, Ellis promotes keeping public funds in public schools and opposes vouchers  what GOP-sponsored legislation calls educational scholarship accounts  which would give parents funding they can use toward private tuition for their children. She also wants to increase the number of mental health professionals in schools, raise teacher salaries and reduce testing not required by federal law.

Every student in South Carolina deserves access to a high-quality education, and I want to help make that happen, Ellis said. As a 21-year veteran teacher, I have seen firsthand how students are suffering because of the teacher shortage and unrealistic expectations placed on teachers.

Gary Burgess currently serves as the spokesperson for Florence County School District Fours board of trustees and as a member of the Anderson County Board of Education. He previously worked as a teacher in Spartanburg, a high school principal in Anderson Four and then superintendent of Anderson Four.

Burgess has run for superintendent previously; in 2010 and 2014 he ran in the primaries for the top education job as a Republican.

With $11,163.67 from fundraising, Burgess has been campaigning on boosting teachers salaries, firearms education and for public dollars to go to public schools, among other issues. He dismissed the discussions around critical race theory, which he said isnt taught in schools. He wants teachers to teach freely, rather than be afraid of lawsuits or harassment.

We must re-center public education to where it ought to be, apart from the cultural wars which are intended to kill universal public education, Burgess said. I will fight for all children to receive the best education in this state.

This years race initially had 12 contenders, but GOP candidates Cindy Coats, a Charleston County School District board member, and Sheri Few, the founder of the nonprofit Parents Involved in Education, both dropped out in early April. Neither had a masters degree. After dropping out, Coats endorsed Weaver, while Few endorsed Gibson.

Donate to our Investigative Fund to support journalism like this Our public service and investigative reporting is among the most important work we do. Its also the most expensive reporting we do. We cant do it without your support. Donate Now

Correction: The article previously stated Travis Bedson was pursuing his master's degree through a program offered by Capella University. He is no longer enrolled in that program. He is now enrolled in a master's program offered by Western Governors University.
It all started with a small blister on the side of Bill Kern's left foot. But within weeks, it was a wound that ran nearly the length of his foot, an infection that engulfed the little toe.

When the bandage around the foot was unwrapped, the toe "was completely black," full of dead tissue, said Kern, 63, of James Island.

Though he was initially given only a 20 percent chance of keeping his limb, all he lost was two toes and part of the side of the foot where the infection had spread into the bone.

"I couldn't even imagine (living) without a foot," Kern said. For that, he credits Roper Hospital, which has a new program aimed at saving more lower limbs from amputation, many in diabetics like him.

Roper formally introduced its Limb Amputation Prevention Program last month in hopes of educating the public, and particularly diabetic patients, on the need for preventative measures to stave off lower limb amputations. Some of those losses are life-threatening: The risk of dying within five years after an amputation below the knee ranges from 40 percent to 82 percent and above the knee, from 40 percent to 92 percent, according to a 2016 study published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery.

"Its so true, when you save a limb, you save a life," said Dr. Mary Hanley, a wound care and hyperbaric specialist at Roper who serves as medical director of the new program.

Diabetes can lead to amputations by attacking the vessels in the legs and feet, choking blood flow and making it more likely patients will develop open wounds, thus making it harder for them to heal. The disease also attacks nerves in the lower limbs and feet, leading to numbness and loss of sensation so that patients might not know when they are injured or have an open sore.

Those infections can become much larger and more difficult to treat, leading to dead tissue and amputation.

For diabetic patients "any break in the skin is a limb-threatening situation, said prevention program co-director Dr. Zachary Arthurs of Coastal Vascular & Vein Center.

Advances in care had been helping to lower the rate of diabetics who got an amputation by nearly half, from 8.5 per 1,000 to 4.4 per 1,000 between 2000 and 2009, according to a 2020 study in Diabetes Care.

From 2009 to 2017, however, the rate started to rise again in about half the states in the U.S.

South Carolina, which had the third-worst rate in 2000 at 11.8 per 1,000, was more middle of the pack with a rate of 5 per 1,000 by 2017, according to the data. But the state had the biggest decline since 2009  2.1 percent  compared to some states that increased by more than 13 percent.

Whatever gains were made then have likely been wiped out by the pandemic, when many patients avoided seeking care, Hanley said.

"They found something on their foot but they were afraid (to come in)," she said. "Weve started to see patients much later in the problem."

Vascular surgeons have been deluged with people seeking help, Arthurs said.

"We are seeing an exponential increase in the number of patients who have diabetic foot complications," he said.

The increase since 2009 has been highest in patients under age 65, in men and in White and Hispanic patients, the 2020 study found, although Blacks and seniors still have the highest rates overall.

Arthurs sees this in his own practice which recently included a patient who was 28.

"That was unheard of 15 years ago," he said.

There are many theories about why those rates have increased. Some point to the rise in childhood obesity, which could be exposing patients to prediabetic conditions at an earlier age.

Others point to the soaring cost of diabetes medication, in particular insulin. That might lead some patients to ration medication and lead to worse control of their blood sugar, which sets them up for greater complications.

It is why the prevention program is so focused on getting patients to better manage diabetes, which is a personal mission for Hanley.

"I say some people are non-practicing diabetics, and my job is to convert them to being in the front pew of the Church of Diabetes Management," she said.

Patients like Kern are encouraged to check their feet daily, even if they have to ask for help to do it. Some patients with poor vision take pictures of their feet and send them to their children, Arthurs said. Others use their hands. Some with poor mobility put mirrors on the floor to help them, he said.

South Carolina might be faring slightly better than some states because the state Medicaid program covers visits to a podiatrist, a foot doctor, Hanley said.

"They serve as a first line of picking up a problem," she said. "Hopefully, that has made a difference."

Better education on nutrition also is vital to limb preservation and better management of diabetes, Hanley said. Arthurs would start with prediabetics, those whose bodies are careening toward the disease, as the better place to intervene.

"Our definition of diabetes is too late, in my opinion," he said.

Kern, from a recliner in his living room, heaves a long sigh when he hears about rising rates of amputation and patients at higher risk.

"I fall right into that category," he said.

He has been struggling with it since 2016, but his latest episode was the worst.

Still, with intravenous antibiotics and sessions in the hyperbaric chamber to speed up the healing process, the wound on his foot has shrunk from nearly the entire length to a half-inch spot in the middle.

"It's come a long way," said Chloe Richardson, his nurse with Roper St. Francis Home Health. Kern credits her and the hospital with saving him from worse.

"They've done a fantastic job at Roper saving my foot," he said.
MYRTLE BEACH  U.S. Rep. Tom Rice, the embattled Republican Myrtle Beach congressman fighting for political survival in a heated primary challenge, said if he loses his seat over his vote to impeach then-President Donald Trump after the Jan. 6 Capitol riot, "It'll be worth it."

Asked by ABC News Chief Washington Correspondent Jonathan Karl in an interview that aired June 5 what he thinks about his obituary starting with his impeachment vote, Rice said "So be it. I'll wear it like a badge."

Rice is facing an unexpected difficult challenge from state Rep. Russell Fry, a Surfside Beach attorney who won Trump's endorsement in an area where the former president remains popular. All six of Rice's primary challengers have cited the impeachment vote as a top reason for getting into the race.

A poll released this week showed Rice trailing Fry in the June 14 primary. Fry continues to hammer Rice on questions over his loyalty to Trump in television ads and mail fliers, saying the congressman broke the trust of Pee Dee voters.

Rice has made it clear during the campaign that he is willing to stake his political career on the Trump impeachment vote.

He told Karl that despite a heavy record of voting along with Trump policies, he had no choice but to back the Constitution and vote to impeach the president for his lack of action to halt the January 6 riots aimed at halting Congress from certifying Democrat Joe Biden's election as president.

Rice said he remains livid that Trump did little despite seeing rioters injure police officers and hearing some protesters threaten Vice President Mike Pence, who was presiding over the certification.

Voting to impeach the president was the right thing to do for Republicans, said Rice, a Myrtle Beach account. Only nine other GOP House members joined Rice in voting to impeach before the Senate voted to acquit the president.

"Defending the Constitution is a bedrock of the Republican platform ... and that's what I did," he said. "That was the conservative vote."

Rice said there's only one way he would support Trump again.

"If he goes out and says, 'I'm sorry that I made a huge mistake on January 6,' then I might consider it,"

Still, if Trump runs again for president in 2024, Rice noted, "I think I think it will hurt us."

Rice said Wyoming congresswoman Liz Cheney, another Republican who voted to impeach Trump, would make a great House Speaker over Kevin McCarthy, who continues to back the former president.

"I think she's a real Republican," he said. "I think she is very conservative and I think she's a fearless leader."

Trump called Rice "a total fool" during a March rally in Florence, which along with Myrtle Beach comprises the main metro areas in South Carolina's 7th Congressional District.

Rice told Karl that Trump is "a narcissist."

"And he's driven by attention," Rice added, "and he's driven by revenge."

Fry complained in a Facebook post after the Rice interview aired on "This Week With George Stephanopoulos" that ABC canceled a planned sit-down with the Trump-backed lawmaker.

"National media want to protect Tom Rice and pull out all stops to promote Democrats to vote in our primary," Fry wrote.
On June 3, marking the midway point of the 46th Annual Spoleto Festivals Wells Fargo Jazz Series, saxophonist Ravi Coltrane was at the helm.

Amidst colossal clouds and imminent threat of rain, a distinctly erudite Cistern Yard of concertgoers was gifted rarefied alchemy by jazz royalty, the second son of musicians Alice and John Coltrane.

Coltrane paid homage to the familys matriarch, pianist, harpist and composer, Alice Coltrane, with a program harkening to her eponymous album Universal Consciousness, released in 1971 on Impulse! Records. An inimitable quintet coalesced to make manifest this truth, resulting in a stellar performance and transcendental journey.

Born in Detroit in 1937, Alice Coltrane was raised between gospel and Motown. She went on to study classical music and honed her jazz chops, studying with Bud Powell while in Paris. She was finding her voice, both on and off the bandstand.

It would be on the bandstand, at Birdland no less, where Ravis parents met and fell in love in the summer of 1963. Vibraphonist Terry Gibbs was the opening act for John Coltranes extended run at the famed New York City jazz club, one of the few still in existence.

Gibbs hired Alice as his pianist and she struck a chord with John well beyond the sphere of music. She and John shared more than their artistry, they shared a spiritual connection to the East, one that would inform both their lives and their creation. In 1966, when pianist McCoy Tyner left Johns quintet, Alice was invited to fill the position.

The two were married in Mexico in 1965 and for just a few short years, John and Alice lived an entire lifetime. Johns untimely death to liver cancer in 1967 left Alice with a husband to grieve, four children to raise, an estate to manage and her own career to tend to.

Alice remained devoted to propelling the movement forward. She would go on to release 13 albums in a span of 11 years. Her music shifted from a standard jazz approach to increasingly experimental, infusing traditional eastern instruments, electronic keyboards and synthesizers and, above all, her faith, into her sound.

She would then turn inward, leaving a public life for a private sabbatical that would last the better part of 25 years. It was only at the behest of her sons, Ravi and Oran, that she would return to the limelight, releasing her final album, "Translinear Light," in 2004.

It was a personal dream for Ravi Coltrane to collaborate with Alice in the creation of this album, securing his mothers legacy, rightfully so, alongside his fathers.

After his mother's death in 2007, at the age of 69, a memorial service was planned in New York City. It was then that Ravi discovered Brandee Younger, strikingly born for this moment.

You wont hear anyone play the harp like this young lady here, Coltrane shared, as he introduced Younger on stage. Alices protege was the guiding light of the performance. Dressed in gilded sequins to match her golden touch, she emanated the divine essence of Turiyasangitananda (Alice Coltranes adopted Sanskrit name), embracing her full-sized harp in all its glory.

Whether rhythmic and comping or lyrically soloing, she sweetened the music and entranced a willing audience with her heavenly strokes of genius and celestial cascades. She brilliantly intertwined her own feminine spirit with that of her sage. Younger is an artist made for this music and proves that Alice was at the vanguard of something timeless and eternal.

David Virreyes masterfully covered all of the keys  from the Steinway grands traditional eighty-eight to the electronic keyboards, a Fender Rhodes and Moog synthesizer to either side of him. A returnee to the festival, his monstrous solos masterfully demonstrated his wide-ranging technique and the dynamic breadth of each instrument under his command. His talent is otherworldly.

Rashaan Carter, the youngest of the band, held his own on bass, leaning into every note and particularly adept at synchronizing with Younger on harp. Raising the state of consciousness to an entirely new level was the venerated Jeff Tain Watts on drums.

The program was one primarily dedicated to Alices compositions, starting the set with Blue Nile and a slew of other favorites spanning her career. Ravi, alternating between tenor and soprano saxophones, snuck a little John in there, making reference to his father, with refreshing takes on Equinox and Alabama, a welcome reminder that live performance is where jazz lives.

With one eye on the time and the other on lightning looming in the distance, the band closed with the Latin-tinged "Los Caballos," infamously featuring a then-uncredited friend on timbales on the original recording: Carlos Santana. The band ended on Alices farewell composition and a respectable standing ovation to a crowd clearly satiated. The effect was grounding and effervescent, leaving a feeling of revived romanticism.

Ravi Coltranes devotion to his familys legacy makes the future safe for jazz and his parents immortal.
Charleston, SC (29403)

Today

Partly cloudy with a slight chance of thunderstorms. High around 85F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

A few clouds. Low 74F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph.
New Delhi, June 5 (UNI) Minister of State for External Affairs V. Muraleedharan will pay an official visit to Zimbabwe and Malawi from June 6-9, in a visit aimed to add further momentum to India's relations with these two nations in southern Africa.

During his visit to Zimbabwe, from June 6-7, MoS Muraleedharan will call on President Emmerson D. Mnangagwa and meet other senior leaders of the country. He will also hold discussions with Frederick Shava, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade of Zimbabwe, on various matters to enhance mutual cooperation.

During his visit to Malawi, in southeastern Africa from June 8-9, MoS will call on President Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera and meet other senior leaders of the country. MoS will also hold talks with Nancy Tembo, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Malawi on matters of mutual interest and cooperation.

MoS Muraleedharan will also meet a wide cross-section of the Indian community in both the countries and participate in events marking Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav celebrations during the visit, an official statement said.

He will also review the progress of the development assistance projects under the Government of India Lines of Credit (LoCs) and Grants in both the countries.

India shares excellent bilateral relations with both Zimbabwe and Malawi ranging across political, economic, cultural and development assistance fields, which have particularly strengthened in the past few years.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Indian leadership maintained close contacts with the leadership of both the countries and supported them in their fight against the pandemic.

The visit of the Minister of State for External Affairs would add further momentum to the multifaceted relations with these countries.

UNI RN
Politico frequently reads like an internal house organ of the Democratic Party and a key component of the Democrats public relations adjunct. Natasha Bertrands October 2020 Politico story promoting the line that the New York Posts Hunter Biden laptop coverage constituted Russian disinformation is a classic disgrace. Bertrands story ran under the headline Hunter Biden story is Russian disinfo, dozens of former intel officials say.

Moving on from Politico, Bertrand has failed upward. She is White House reporter for CNN.

And Politico marches on.

In the June 2 edition of Politicos West Wing Playbook, Alex Thompson and Max Tani lead with The trials of being an ex-Biden. Covering the memoir of Hunter Bidens ex-wife to be published on June 14, the story reads like advance damage control.

The story inadvertently reveals the lack of introspection on Politicos disgrace. Thompson and Tani disparage the New York Post in passing (link in original): [T]he personal life of the presidents sons has become daily fodder for The New York Post, the Daily Mail and other right-leaning tabloids, all while his overseas business relationships remain a focus of major mainstream news outlets.

The story also offers a quote from the book:

Hunter tried to tell me that he came from a middle-class family, she writes. Months later, when I went to his house for the first time, I explained to him: Hunt, a kid from a middle class family does not have a ballroom.

The editors of the New York Post have not taken kindly to the slight administered to the Post by Thompson and Tani in passing. The Post editorial is Politicos pusillanimous pandering on Hunter Biden.

In this case the Posts response seems to me somewhat disproportionate to the offense. The Post editors should hammer on Bertrands story, its manifestation of the deep state working to support its preferred presidential candidate in the 2020 election by utterly foul means, and Politicos service as the willing instrument of a transparent lie.
The consummation this week of a share sale and purchase deal handing 93.4 per cent stake held by a group of core investors in the more-than-a-century old Union Bank of Nigeria Plc to Titan Trust Bank Limited, means the bank is now owned by the emerging markets-focused investment firm Tropical General Investments Limited (TGI), the parent company of the digital bank.

The investment company, based in Lagos with offices in Dublin, Ireland, has interests in pharmaceuticals, FMCG, agricultural inputs, homecare products and industrial chemicals.

Formed approximately three and a half years ago, Titan Trust got a national banking license to operate in Nigeria and got off to a quiet start although it was positioning itself as a challenger bank.

Dubai-based Vink Corporation, a subsidiary of TGI, serves as the trading unit of the group, and is named after Cornelius G Vink, the chairman, founder and owner of TGI.

After the takeover of Union Bank, the bank appointed new directors to its board and a new chief executive officer. The new CEO is Titan Trust Banks managing director, Mudassir Amray, while the directors are Farouk Gumel, Andrew Ojel, Abubakar Mohammed and Lawrence Mackombo. Mr Gumel is the chairman.

Here are the profiles of TGIs top shareholders, the new owners of Union Bank.

CORNELIUS G VINK

A citizen of the Netherlands, Mr Vink has been operating in Nigeria as far back as the 1980s and was conferred with the national honour of Member of the Federal Republic (MFR) late President Umaru YarAdua.

He established TGI in 1991 with a small and obscure company, Comart Nigeria Limited, in a corner of Lagos, dealing in importation of chemicals into the country.

An organic growth within a decade and a year extended the firms subsidiaries to 15, with some of the companies including Chi Limited, West Africa Cotton Company (WACOT), Chi Farms, TGI Distri Limited, Chi Pharma, ORC Fishing, Kaizen Properties, Master Marine, WACOT Rice, Fludor Benin S.A, Fludor Ghana and West Africa Soy Industries Limited. TGI owns more than one hundred brands in different sectors.

Mr Vink sold a minority interest equivalent to 40 per cent shareholding of Chi Limited, maker of popular brands like CapriSun and Chivita, for $240 million to Coca Cola in 2016.

We were approached by many prestigious global companies and we decided to do a deal with the largest of them all, the billionaire said at the time.

He would later sell the remaining 60 per cent stake to the same acquirer, with the entire transaction rising to $1 billion.

I  need to make more clarifications on the ownership structure of Titan. The bank is 85% owned by Vink Corporation  a foreign company, Tunde Lemo, chair of Titan Trust said after the share purchase was announced in December.

The local shareholders own the balance, and shareholding is dispersed. My shareholding is therefore very tiny and insignificant. I am only providing leadership, he added.

According to the 2020 audited annual report of the lender seen by PREMIUM TIMES, Luxis International DMCC and Magna International DMCC, both of them parts of Vink Corporation DMCC, hold 48.09 per cent and 37.39 per cent stakes respectively in Titan Trust, summing up to 85.5 per cent.

AMINU YARO

Mr Yaro, a northern business mogul, owns 9.07 per cent of Titan Trusts 58.4 million ordinary shares.

BABATUNDE LEMO

Mr Lemo, a former deputy governor of operations and director of the Central bank of Nigeria, chairs Titans Trust banks board. He is also currently the chairman of fintech powerhouse Flutterwave.

Mr Lemo, born in 1959, gained a First Class Honours degree in Accounting in 1984 from University of Nigeria Nsukka. He started off at Arthur Anderson & Co in 1985 and would years later become the chairman of the Federal Road Maintenance Agency.

A fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountant of Nigeria and Chartered Institute of Bankers, Lemo took office in 2004 as director and chairman of the Abuja Securities and Commodities Exchange Plc. He was a former managing director of Wema Bank.

Mr Lemo holds a 0.9 per cent interest in Titan Trust Bank, translating to 529,970 shares.

ANDREW CHUKWUDI OJEI

Mr Ojei, a non-executive director of the bank, is a former executive director of Zenith Bank. He helped Zenith bank establish its first foreign subsidiary in Ghana, later becoming the managing director of the Ghanaian operation.

He is a graduate of accounting from University of Lagos. A Fellow and Council Member of The Institute of Credit Administration of Nigeria, Ojeis interests span IT and real estate. Ojei has attended courses at Harvard Business School, Wharton Philadelphia and San Francisco as well as Advanced Management Programme at INSEAD France.

He has been appointed as a non-executive director of Union Bank.

Mr Ojei owns a 0.9 per cent stake in Titan Trust Bank.

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
A member of a vigilante group in Abuja was on Saturday killed over alleged blasphemy by religious fanatics.

The deceased, Ahmad Usman, was lynched by a mob at at Tipper Garage, Federal Housing Estate, Lugbe District.

According to residents and members of the vigilante group, the violence started at about 1 a.m. when Mr Usman attempted to arrest a fried yam seller for exceeding allowed time in the market.

No one is supposed to stay in the market beyond 12 a.m. That has been the rule. We all made the rules, a mechanic, Habeeb Ayinde, told PREMIUM TIMES.

Though not at the scene when the fracas broke out, Mr Ayindes workshop is less than two minutes walk to where the heinous act was committed.

Before the mob action, the deceased and the fried yam seller identified as Malam Lawan, had engaged in a heated argument where the former allegedly made blasphemous comments against Allah.

He was said to have insisted on arresting Mr Lawan, also referred to as a Shiite cleric, for flouting the market rules even if they begged him in Allahs name.

Abba Bako, a member of the vigilante group interviewed by this newspaper, said the matter was laid to rest by their intervention at midnight.

We were all in our office around 8 a.m. when his brothers dressed in black came to change the matter.

They were shouting that he abused Allah and before you know it, there were plenty of them at the front of our office throwing stones, he narrated.

Mr Bako explained that they were overwhelmed by the mob despite their attempt to escape through the back of their office.

Those are the tyres they gathered, those were not there before. After beating him, they went into the market to get those tyres and burn him with it, he explained.

He said some of his colleagues had to run from the scene as the mob destroyed some of their belongings in the office before the arrival of police officers.

PREMIUM TIMES gathered that the accused, Mr Lawan, is at large.

Normalcy restored

Almost all shops were locked by traders for fear of possible reprisal as fully armed police officers stationed their vehicles in the area.

The FCT police spokesperson, Josephine Adeh, in a statement issued after the incident, said the deceased was in flames when her team arrived at the scene to restore normalcy.

Upon the receipt of this information, a quick intervention team comprising of The Surveillance and Ambush team of the Command attached to the Gwagwalada Divisional Police Headquarters was drafted to the scene where the inflamed victim was rescued suffering severe degrees of burn and taken immediately to the hospital where he was confirmed dead by a doctor on call.

Normalcy has since been restored to the situation, while monitoring and surveillance of the area continues. Residents are therefore urged to go about their lawful duties without fear or apprehension of any kind from any quarters as discrete investigation continues to unravel facts surrounding the ugly incident and to effect the arrest of the perpetrators therein, Ms Adeh said.

The incident occurs a few weeks after a female student was lynched in Sokoto State for alleged blasphemy.

The Sokoto incident was condemned by many Nigerians including President Muhammadu Buhari and religious leaders.

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
To beat the deadline for the submission of the lists of candidates for the 2023 general elections, the 16 smaller political parties have been conducting their presidential and other primaries.

Seven of the parties have repeatedly claimed they are working on uniting into a large platform that will constitute the third force of Nigerian politics and present a viable alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

But there is no visible movement toward that grand ambition as each of the seven parties has been holding separate exercises to nominate candidates for the elections across the country.

Parties began their selection exercises with the state Houses of Assembly primaries and are rounding off with the nomination of their presidential candidates.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) recently nominated Atiku Abubakar as its candidate for the second consecutive presidential election but the All Progressives Congress (APC) postponed its nomination to between June 6 and 8.

Ten other parties also fixed their presidential primaries for between May 31 and June 9.

The parties include the Accord Party (AP), Action Alliance (AA), African Action Congress (AAC), African Democratic Congress (ADC), All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP).

The others are the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Young Progressive Party (YPP) and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).

However, as of Thursday night, only the AA, ADC, PRP, SDP, YPP and AP have more than one aspirant bidding for their presidential tickets.

Olufemi Ajadi, a presidential aspirant under the NNPP, recently stepped down for a former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso.

In the Labour Party, a former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, picked the ticket a few days after joining from the PDP. Pat Utomi, who facilitated Mr Obis defection to the party, and two other aspirants stepped down for Mr Obi at the partys convention held on Monday in Asaba, the capital of Delta State.

A former chief judge of Anambra State, Peter Umeadi, also emerged as the presidential candidate of APGA at the partys special convention held in Abuja on Wednesday.

A total of 150 delegates affirmed Mr Umeadis candidacy through a voice vote.

Cost of nomination forms

Taking a cue from the ruling APC and main opposition PDP which sold their presidential nomination forms for N100 million and N40 million respectively, many of the other parties have fixed their own prices at tens of millions of naira.

Aside from the AAC which issued its forms for all elective offices free of charge, all the third force parties whose officials PREMIUM TIMES interviewed fixed their prices for the presidential nomination forms at N10 million and above.

Mr Kwankwaso, who is the sole presidential aspirant in the NNPP, and Mr Umeadi of APGA paid N30 million and N22 million respectively to obtain their nomination forms.

The only male in the race under the SDP, Adewale Adebayo, paid N35 million. Mr Adebayo will face two female opponents, Khadijah Okunnu-Lamidi and Cessnabimilo Akenova, in the contest for the SDP ticket. The female candidates did not have to pay for their forms.

Before stepping down at the partys convention, Sampson Charles and Fasuri Joseph had paid N30 million each for the LP presidential forms, while Olubusola Emmanuel, the only female in the race, enjoyed a discount.

The ADC has the highest number of presidential aspirants among the minor parties. Its 12 aspirants paid N25 million each for the nomination forms but the women and youth among them enjoyed special consideration.

The party made its nomination forms free for women, youth and Persons Living with Disabilities.

The presidential nomination forms of the ZLP, YPP and PRP went for N23 million, N15 million and N10 million respectively.

Meanwhile, most of the third force parties named above sold their presidential forms at much lower prices for the last general elections.

Third Force

The idea of a Third Force Party was again of interest to some parties in the march to the 2019 general elections.

Since the APC emerged from the fusion of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) and the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) in 2014 and took power a year later, some of the minor parties think they can reenact the trick.

This is being pushed by the National Consultative Front (NCFront) but the parties involved in alliance talks have been nominating their individual candidates, indicating that their efforts may fail as the Presidential Aspirants Coming Together (PACT) failed in 2019.

Fela Durotoye of the Alliance for New Nigeria (ANN) had emerged as the consensus candidate of the PACT but his candidature did not gain the support of the other aspirants and it was, therefore, no surprise that he did not make any impression at the general election.

The NCFront recently adopted Labour Party as its official platform. But that party has unilaterally nominated Mr Obi as its presidential candidate and the other third force parties have continued with their separate preparations for the general elections.

Leveraging on new deadline

However, following the six days extension granted by the INEC to the deadline for the submission of the lists of candidates, some of the third force parties rescheduled their primaries too.

Delegates of AA, ADC, AP, PRP, SDP, and YPP will now elect their presidential flag bearers between June 4 and 9.

ADC

The ADC will conduct a primary for its 12 presidential aspirants on June 8. The aspirants are Kingsley Moghalu, Mani Ibrahim, Chukwuka Monye, Angela Johnson, Dumebi Kachikwu, Joyce Nsaka, Chike Okogwu, and Chichi Ojei

The others are Favour Ayodele, Muhammed Lamido, Ify-George Oforkansi, and Ebiti Ndok Jegede.

The PRP rescheduled its senatorial, governorship and presidential primaries for June 4 and 5, while the Action Alliance (AA) will hold its special convention and presidential primary on June 9.

The YPP will hold its governorship primaries on June 4, although the Akwa-Ibom State chapter of the party has conducted its own. The partys presidential primaries originally fixed for June 3 will now be held on June 8.

Still enmeshed in a leadership crisis, the SDP postponed its national convention and presidential primaries from June 2 to 7 and 8 of the same month.

With the Court of Appeal handing over the AAC chairmanship seat to Omoyele Sowore, the party may extend its primaries earlier scheduled from June 1 to 3.

The appellate court on Thursday voided the judgement of the Federal High Court delivered in Abuja and dismissed the appointment of Leonard Ezenwa as the acting chairman of the party.

Presidential aspirants

AA

Having promised to relocate to Sambisa if elected as Nigerias president, Hamza Al-Mustapha, the chief security officer to the late dictator, Sani Abacha, wants to be Nigerias president on the ticket of the AA.

He joined the presidential race in May when he paid the N15 million to obtain the nomination forms. His rivals for the ticket are Tunde Kilani, Felix Osakwe and Samson Odupitan.

NNPP and LP

While Mr Kwankwasos NNPP has acquired the status of the main opposition party in Kano, other minor parties are making efforts to make an impression in the general elections.

Just as the former Kano governor is drawing attention to the NNPP, Mr Obis ambition in LP has continued to gain support from politicians, celebrities and many of his online supporters who have vowed to vote in the coming elections because of him.

Mr Kwankwaso said he would have nominated the former Anambra governor as his running mate if the latter had joined the NNPP after defecting from the PDP. But as things stand, the two will be running separately for president next year.

ADC

Proclaiming a vision to consolidate Nigerias democracy when it was founded in 2005, the ADC has fielded presidential candidates in the four elections since, from 2007 to 2019.

It recorded its finest performance in 2019 when it fielded the recently deceased former deputy CBN governor, Obadiah Mailafia, who polled 97,874 votes to put the party in the fourth position, its highest in its 17 years of history.

Mr Utomi polled 50,849 votes for the ADC to return in the ninth position in the 2007 presidential election, while Peter Nwangwu and Mani Ibrahim placed the party in the eighth and seventh positions in the 2011 and 2015 elections respectively.

Four aspirants are taking part in the ADCs coming primaries. They are Messrs Moghalu and Monye, as well as Mr Ibrahim, its candidate in 2015, and Dumebi Kachikwu, a brother of Nigerias former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Ibe Kachikwu.

We know him, and he is the kind of person that can deal with the Nigerian situation. Having that boldness and the courage to come out, Im sure that by the time we finish our primaries, and he emerges as winner, I can assure you that he will be the next President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Chairman of ADC, Okey Nwosu, said about Mr Ibrahim after he declared to run for the seat again.

Mr Ibrahim received 29,665 (0.10 per cent) votes in the 2015 election.

Can Abiola, Bugaje, others put PRP on the chart?

Kola Abiola, the son of the winner of the 1993 presidential election, Moshood Abiola, will be running against a former member of the House of Representatives, Usman Bugaje; a retired colonel, Gboluga Mosugu; and Patience Key, a former chairman of Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO), United States chapter, for the PRP presidential ticket.

The PRP, unlike many of the 15 other parties jostling to displace APC and PDP, is a progressive left of centre political party. It was created by the supporters of Aminu Kano after his withdrawal from the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) in 1978.

It reincarnated in the Fourth Republic but has not really made headways since then, despite having prominent persons like Sule Lamido, Umaru YarAdua, Chinua Achebe, Uche Chukwumerije, a former Bauchi State Governor and 2003 PRP presidential candidate, Balarabe Musa, as members in the past.

Mr Bugaje, a former member of the House of Representatives, and Mr Abiola are the frontrunners for the partys presidential ticket.

Although PRP has never featured on the INEC presidential ballot paper since its return in 1999, the party is showing a determination to do so in 2023.

YPP: Not where it promised to be

The senator for Anambra South District, Ifeanyi Ubah, in 2019, promised to make the YPP a formidable political platform in Nigeria before the 2023 general elections. But this has yet to happen.

Until recently when Malik Ado-Ibrahim, a son of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland in Kogi State, joined the party, the YPP has largely been tied around its sole senator.

However, Garba Adamu also recently jumped into the party to pursue his presidential ambition after fleeing from the APC over the N100 million fee the ruling party charged for its nomination forms.

Founded as a social democratic party in 2017, the YPP fielded Kingsley Moghalu as its presidential candidate in 2019 and came 14th in the election.

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State has denied reports that he has declared support for Senate President Ahmad Lawans presidential ambition and has thus withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential primary.

The governor stated this in two separate statements from his media aides, Uchenna Orji and Francis Nwaze.

He was reacting to reports that he stepped down for Mr Lawan, a fellow presidential aspirant, who visited him on Saturday in the governors Abuja residence.

Mr Umahi had also posted pictures of the visit on his verified social media handles.

It was a pleasure to welcome my brother, friend and the President of the Senate, Senator Ahmad Lawan with his entourage made of six senators to my Abuja residence a while ago, the Ebonyi governor wrote on his Facebook page.

We had brotherly discussions on national unity and our aspirations, Mr Umahi wrote.

After the meeting, a report was allegedly aired on Arise TV suggesting the Ebonyi governor had stepped down for Mr Lawan.

The Ebonyi State Commissioner for Information, Mr Orji, in a statement on behalf of the David Umahi Campaign Organisation, described the report as fake news.

We are surprised that Arise TV could descend so low as to take such a dirty job of running Aspirants down for needless gratifications.

We urge Arise TV to immediately purge itself of this wanting behaviour by stating the obvious that Governor David Nweze Umahi, APC Presidential Aspirant never stepped down, Mr Orji wrote.

Mr Orji explained that Mr Lawan only returned a consultation visit previously accorded to him by Mr Umahi and that both of them pledged to support each other in event of any of them emerging as the presidential candidate of the APC.

Mr Nwaze, who is Governor Umahis special assistant on media, also said the report is false.

This raises a question mark about the credibility of the source of such fallacy, what never took place which is capable of putting Governor Umahis aspiration in jeopardy.

He said the Senate Presidents visit was a last-ditch effort to ramp up partnership ahead of the APC Presidential Primary.

The Senate President even took out time to eulogise Engineer Umahi for making the party proud through his purposeful governance in Ebonyi State.

There was no time during the visit that the issue of stepping down by either Governor Umahi or the Senate President was discussed or even suggested, he said.

The teeming supporters of Engineer Umahi across Nigeria and beyond are encouraged to disregard the ill-fated news item which is by all standards fake, and go about their solidarity on the assurance that His Excellency the Governor is still very much in the race to develop Nigeria. God willing, he will emerge in the Presidential Primary of our great Party, the All Progressives Congress, he said.

Umahis Presidential Ambition

Mr Umahi won his election and re-election (for his second term) on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

A known ally of President Muhammadu Buhari, Mr Umahi defected to the APC in 2021.

He is one of the 23 presidential aspirants of the APC and was at a meeting the aspirants had with Mr Buhari Saturday night in Abuja.

Although the APC has made its presidential contest open to all, PREMIUM TIMES reports that the majority of its state governors want the candidate to come from the southern part of the country.

Mr Lawan, the current senate president, is from Yobe in Northern Nigeria.

At yesterdays meeting, President Buhari urged the APC presidential aspirants to consult among themselves and present a consensus candidate.

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
Nigerias ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) will pick its flag bearer for the 2023 presidential election at its National Congress fixed for Abuja between Monday and Wednesday.

Officially, 23 aspirants are jostling for the ticket but the party has advised 10 of them to withdraw while more may also step down as we enter the business end of the process.

Uncertainty over delegates

Barely 72 hours to the special convention, the Federal High Court in Kano, on Friday, held that statutory delegates can participate in primaries of political parties in accordance with the Nigerian constitution.

The judge, A.M. Liman, while delivering judgement in a suit filed by Masijde El-Jibrin Gogowa, a legislative aide to Femi Gbajabiamila, Speaker of the House of Representatives; Habibu Sani and Bilyaminu Shinkafi, said Section 223 of the Nigerian constitution and the APC constitution allow statutory Delegation (sic) to vote at convention, congress or meeting.

In the suit filed on May 24, the plaintiffs listed the Senate President, APC National Chairman, Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as defendants.

However, the spokesperson of the APC, Felix Morka, told PREMIUM TIMES that the party will not comply with the court judgement because the APC was not joined in the suit.

With the elimination of statutory delegates and the refusal of the president to sign an amendment bill that would have reinstated the statutory delegates, only elected delegates, as provided in Section 84(8) of the Electoral Act, will pick the candidate.

Section 84(8) provides that a political party that adopts the system of indirect primaries for the choice of its candidate shall clearly outline in its constitution and rule the procedure for the democratic election of delegates to vote at the convention, congress and meeting.

The national delegates were elected three per local government/area. With 768 local governments and 6 area councils, 2,322 delegates will decide who will become the candidate of the ruling party.

This means that the governors who hold the structures of the party in their states will decide to a large extent who will become the candidate.

APC has 22 governors, and five of them were in the race until the reported withdrawal of Governor Abubakar Badaru of Jigawa Saturday night. The others still in the race are Yahaya Bello of Kogi, Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti, Dave Umahi of Ebonyi and Ben Ayade of Cross River.

Breakdown of national delegates by states

SOUTH EAST

Abia 51

Anambra 63

Ebonyi 39

Enugu 51

Imo 81

SOUTH SOUTH

Akwa-Ibom 93

Cross River 54

Bayelsa 24

Delta 75

Rivers 69

Edo 57

SOUTH WEST

Lagos 60

Ogun 60

Ondo 54

Ekiti 48

Oyo 99

Osun 90

NORTH CENTRAL

Kwara 48

Kogi 63

Niger 75

Nasarawa 39

Plateau 51

Benue 66

FCT 18

NORTH EAST

Taraba 48

Bauchi 60

Adamawa 63

Gombe 33

Borno 81

Yobe 51

NORTH WEST

Kano 132

Kaduna 69

Katsina 102

Kebbi 63

Jigawa 81

Sokoto 69

Zamfara 42

Consensus

The hefty prices of interest and nomination forms did not deter the presidential aspirants as 28 of them picked the forms. The National Chairman of the party, Abdullahi Adamu, had argued that even the devil would not pay N100 million to cause mischief but events of the past couple of weeks have shown that Mr Adamu was wrong.

At the end of the process, 23 aspirants attended the screening exercise conducted by a panel headed by a former chairman of the party, John Odigie-Oyegun. At the end of the screening, the panel recommended 13 aspirants for the primary and advised the 10 others to withdraw.

The 13 shortlisted are Mr Badaru, Akwa-Ibom State Governor Godwin Akpabio, immediate past Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, former Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun, Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi, Jack Rich, Senate President Ahmad Lawan, former Minister of Education (State) Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba, former Minister of Science and Technology Ogbonnaya Onu, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Mr Tinubu and Ebonyi State Governor David Umahi.

The panel advised that in the event that the 10 aspirants refuse to withdraw, they should be allowed to participate in the primary.

The new electoral law has outlawed arbitrary use of parties constitutions and guidelines to disqualify aspirants. Section 84(3) of the Electoral Act 2022 provides that A political party shall not impose nomination qualification or disqualification criteria, measures, or conditions on any aspirants or candidates for any election in its constitution, guideline or rules for nomination except as prescribed under section 65, 66, 106, 107, 131, 137, 177 and 187 of the constitution.

And section 131 of the constitution provides that a person shall be qualified for election to the office of the president if:

a. He is a citizen of Nigeria by birth

b. Has attained the age of thirty-five years

c. He is a member of a political party and is sponsored by that political party, and

d. He has been educated up to at least school certificate level or its equivalent.

The interpretation section of the constitution has defined school certificate level or equivalent as School Certificate or its equivalent means

(a) a Secondary School Certificate or its equivalent, or Grade II Teachers Certificate, the City and Guilds Certificate; or

(b) education up to Secondary School Certificate level; or

(c) Primary Six School Leaving Certificate or its equivalent and 

(i) service in the public or private sector in the Federation in any capacity acceptable to the Independent National Electoral Commission for a minimum of ten years, and

(ii) attendance at courses and training in such institutions as may be acceptable to the Independent National Electoral Commission for periods totalling up to a minimum of one year, and

(iii) the ability to read, write, understand and communicate in the English language to the satisfaction of the Independent National Electoral Commission, and

(d) any other qualification acceptable by the Independent National Electoral Commission.

The summary of the interpretation is that a primary school certificate holder with work experience, ability to read and write, and evidence of vocational training is eligible. Hence, parties are restricted from using any other criteria to disqualify aspirants.

In the event that the ruling party decides to adopt consensus, there is a restraint in section 84(9) of the electoral act, which provides that the party that adopts a consensus candidate shall secure written consent of all cleared aspirants for the position, indicating their voluntary withdrawal from the race and their endorsement of the consensus candidate.

However, the president can still instigate consensus using the same strategy adopted by most governors in the state, by anointing a candidate and urging the establishment to rally around the aspirant. Several governors have indicated that they will go wherever the president directs them.

Governors Badaru of Jigawa State, Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna and Babangana Zulum of Borno State publicly stated that they will move in the direction of the president.

Further, Mr Oyegun, while presenting the report of the screening committee to the national chairman, said 99 per cent of the aspirants agreed to a consensus but one of them did not agree.

How the regions may vote

North West

The region has the largest voting capacity at the primary, with six of the seven states being governed by the APC. It can be projected that former Lagos State governor, Bola Tinubu will take Kano and Sokoto, while Kaduna and Jigawa are leaning toward former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi. Despite Governor Badaru being in the race, he has disclosed that he will not contest against Mr Amaechi.

Former Governor of Zamfara, Sani Yerima is in the race, but Governor Matawalle is said to belong to the Tinubu camp. Katsina State, the state of President Muhammadu Buhari, has become some sort of pilgrimage for almost all the aspirants, both in PDP and APC.

While Governor Aminu Masari has been receiving all the aspirants, he is yet to indicate where the state may swing, perhaps due to respect for the President.

Kebbi State is key, however. Governor Atiku Bagudu is the Chairman of the Progressives Governors Forum, and with five APC governors in the race, Mr Bagudu is keeping the cards very close to his heart.

North East

APC controls three states in this region; Borno, Yobe and Gombe. The Senate President Ahmad Lawan is expected to take Yobe, while Borno, Bauchi and Adamawa are states that Mr Tinubu is formidable because of former Governor Kashim Shetima, former Speaker of the House of Representative, Yakubu Dogara, former EFCC Chairman, Nuhu Ribadu, and disgraced former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal.

However, in Borno State, a senator, Ali Ndume, and former Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, are allies of Mr Amaechi and are also expected to get some votes for him.

If the promise of Governor Inuwa Yahaya is the yardstick, then Gombe State should go to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, while Taraba is open to all the aspirants.

North Central

Kwara and Nasarawa State may lean towards the former governor of Lagos State. Despite the ongoing cold relationship between Governor Abdulrahaman Abdulrasak and the Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, Mr Tinubu has a long relationship with Kwara State politics, where he was instrumental in dislodging the Saraki political dynasty.

Governor Abdulrahman has emerged as the de facto leader of the party in the state. Some of those that challenged his supremacy have decamped to the Social Democratic Party. Many of them are Mr Tinubus allies. But when Mr Tinubu visited the state, the atmosphere was carnival-like with the governor pledging to support him.

In Nasarawa, former Governor Tanko Almakura is a close ally of Mr Tinubu. This state will be dicey because the National Chairman, Abdulahi Adamu, is from there. But Mr Almakura has been moving across the country with Mr Tinubu.

Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State is expected to take his state. Governor Simon Lalong has pledged the delegate of Plateau State to Mr Amaechi. Currently, Benue and Niger are still open.

South East

In Ebonyi State, two aspirants are in the race, Governor Umahi and former Minister of Science and Technology, Ogbonnaya Onu. The former is expected to take Ebonyi State while former Governor Orji Kalu is expected to deliver Abia State to Mr Lawan, whom he has endorsed.

In Imo State, there are also two aspirants, former Governor Rochas Okorocha and former Minister of State for Education, Emeka Nwajiuba. Mr Okorocha, who is currently facing a serious battle with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), may struggle to get the delegates behind him.

Because there is a supremacy battle between Mr Okorocha and Uzodinma, if the governor is in control of the structure, then Mr Okorocha may not be in a good position to harvest the delegates and it is unknown if Mr Nwajiuba will take the votes. Mr Uzodinma is in the camp of Mr Lawan.

Ordinarily, former Senate President Ken Nnamani will be expected to take Enugu State while Anambra could be under the directive of Andy Uba and the Minister of Labour and Employment. Chris Ngige.

South-South

In Rivers State, there is a crisis in the party, between Magnus Abes faction and those loyal to Mr Amaechi. All things being equal, Mr Amaechi is expected to take this state, although Mr Abe, who is also running for the governorship ticket of the APC will like to give a good show by delivering delegates to Mr Tinubu, who he is supporting.

If Godwin Akpabio, a former Akwa-Ibom State Governor is able to unite the divided party in Akwa-Ibom, he should be able to take the state. Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River should be able to take his state.

In Edo State, former Governor Adams Oshiomhole is in control and is expected to deliver it to his old ally, Mr Tinubu.

Delta State is in the firm grip of the Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege, this state will go wherever the president goes. Mr Omo-Agege is a staunch supporter of Mr Buhari.

As for Bayelsa State and its 24 delegates, two individuals will direct the flow, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources and David Lyon. Mr Sylva dropped out of the race due to the constraint posed by section 84(12) and the directive of the president that all appointees seeking elective offices should resign.

Mr Lyon was the elected governor during the last off-season governorship election until he was sacked by the court a day before his inauguration over discrepancies in the certificates of his deputy.

In all, Mr Amaehi should have the advantage in the South-south region  except in Edo State, where Mr Tinubu enjoys a good relationship with Mr Oshiomhole.

South West

Earlier this month, former governors of Osun and Ogun State, Bisi Akande and Olusegun Osoba, tried to broker a consensus arrangement among the aspirants from the Southwest. However, the meeting ended in deadlock.

There are seven aspirants in the region. Four are from Ogun State: Mr Osinbajo, Mr Amosun, Tunde Bakare and a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dimeji Bankole. However, Governor Dapo Abiodun is said to favour the vice president.

On Thursday, Mr Tinubu was in Ogun State and he held nothing back when he reminded the delegates how he helped the governor, Mr Osinbajo and the president.

Mr Fayemi from Ekiti is expected to take Ekiti and Ondo states. Although Ajayi Borroffice is from Ondo State, he may not have the political clout to get the votes.

Lagos, Osun and Oyo States are the main strongholds of Mr Tinubu.

With this background, it is easier to separate the contenders and pretenders. According to Mr Fayemi, there are only five serious aspirants based on the campaign activities of the aspirants. Although Mr Fayemi did not name the aspirants, their identities are not difficult to uncover.

The Big Five

Bola Tinubu

The former Governor of Lagos State (1999-2007) and senator in the Third Republic (1992-1993) was the first aspirant to throw his hat in the ring as far back as January. Mr Tinubu has been moving across the country, with the only break being during Ramadan when he went for the lesser hajj in Mecca, Saudi Arabia.

Despite concerns about his health, he has been moving from one state to another, and his entourage has been impressive, with former Governor Kassim Shettima of Borno State one of the mainstays. There are also Messrs Almakura and Ribadu.

There are two major hurdles for Mr Tinubu. One is his age and health, which have always been controversial issues. Last year, he spent some time at a hospital in the UK.

Also, there is the issue of how to pick a running mate. Mr Tinubu, who is a Muslim from the South, would need Northern Christian to balance the ticket. That could cost him dearly in the North.

There are other issues facing Mr Tinibu including a suit filed by a group in the APC asking the court to disqualify him from the APC primary.

Rotimi Amaechi

The immediate past Minister of Transportation is a major contender in the race. Mr Amaechi continues to rack endorsement from key states in the north. His campaign is focusing on security and infrastructure. To buttress that security aspect, Mr Amaechi has been visiting states in the company of the former Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, and a former Inspector-General of Police, Suleiman Abba.

His major trouble will be his inability to unite the APC in his state, where they were barred from participating in the 2019 general election due to internal wrangling.

Mr Amaechi will have the leverage of being able to pick a zoning mate from any of the geopolitical zones in the north.

Yemi Osinbajo

This is the first time Mr Osinbajo will be participating in a contested primary as an aspirant. He was tapped after the primary election in 2014 and the convention of 2018 was more or less ratification.

He will have to battle his ex-boss, Mr Tinubu, for the ticket and so far, Mr Buhari appears to be aloof. Most governors who are close to President Buhari appeared to have queued behind Mr Amaechi.

Other supporters like ex-senators Sola Adeyeye and Femi Ojodu are directing their battle toward Mr Tinubu.

Tinubu has the structure, he has amassed the money and is already throwing it around left, right and centre, but the truth is that many are just fleecing him at the moment, Mr Adeyeye said in an article.

In a rejoinder, Bashiru Ajibola, the senator representing Osun Central, countered the position of Adeyeye While, I am not denying the astuteness of Professor Osinbajo as a legal scholar, to simply attribute his emergence as the Vice President to being noticed by the Northern establishment as a genius is to distort and deliberately falsify political development and history we all know and partook in.

The decision of the Redeem Christian Church of God to establish a department on politics and governance has not helped the vice president. Farouq Kperogi, a US-based university lecturer, had in an article accused Mr Osinbajo of redeemization.

The claims in the article have been debunked, however, the damages have been done.

The vice president will count on the experience of a former governor of Kano State, Kabir Gaya, in navigating the murky water of delegate election.

Kayode Fayemi

Mr Fayemi will count on his position as the Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum to get the needed delegates on his side. Like most of the aspirants, he has been moving across the country and getting pledges from his colleagues.

His chances rest on the support from the governors. If they resolve to pledge to him, he may stand a chance.

Ahmad Lawan

Mr Lawan is the only aspirant from the Northeast, a region that is also yet to produce a president. However, his region is both a strength and a weakness for him.

The Peoples Democratic Party picking Atiku Abubakar as its candidate has strengthened the appeal of Mr Lawan as the ideal counter-balance. However, the party appears to be leaning in the direction of zoning to the south.

His structure is limited, as he has spent all his political career in the legislative arm.

Aside from these five contenders, many of the other aspirants could be referred to as pretenders with eyes perhaps set on other targets.

But the main super delegate remains President Buhari. His endorsement of any of the aspirants could tilt the race. However, there is the fear of what may happen after the primary if certain aspirants are left disgruntled.

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
As the All Progressives Congress (APC) concluded its primaries in Lagos, the shadow of the former governor and national leader of the party loomed large across all the venues of the exercise.

Apart from some of the aspirants donning Mr Tinubus signature cap, several of those who emerged victorious paid tribute to the APC national leader for contributing to their success.

The APC held its Lagos State governorship primaries on May 26; followed by the state assembly and house of representatives primaries the next day.

The primaries for the three senatorial districts tickets took place on May 28.

As winners emerged, victory speeches across all the venues bore one common denominator: the name Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.

At Eti Osa Constituency I, Noheem Adams, who won the ticket to contest for another term in the House of Assembly, polled all the valid votes cast in the primaries.

In his speech after the exercise, he promised to be more accessible and available to his constituents.

I want to use this opportunity to thank Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, our national leader, Mr Ahmed Bola Tinubu, and all the kabiyesis (royal fathers).

At Alimosho Constituency I, Rotimi Ekundayo, who won the ticket, thanked Mr Tinubu for keeping to his promise of a free and fair election at the primaries and also abiding by the result of the election.

I pray that Tinubu will also emerge as the APC flag bearer at the presidential primaries on Sunday, he said.

In Amuwo Odofin Constituency I, Olaitan Folorunso, who defeated the incumbent lawmaker, Mojisola Macaulay, said Mr Tinubu advised them not to step down but to step up.

I thank God that again I have been declared the winner of the APC ticket for Amuwo Odofin Constituency 1.

I thank our national leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for allowing transparency in the process and for stating that whoever emerges the winner remains the winner.

He made it clear that there would be no stepping down, instead we should step up. Today, I have stepped up in Amuwo Odofin Local Government.

Similar speeches of gratitude to the former governor reverberated across the other venues from victors of the primaries.

Mr Tinubu, 70, was the governor of Lagos between 1999 and 2007. He is currently a presidential aspirant on the platform of the APC.

But ever since he left office, Mr Tinubu has kept his fingers in every pie in Lagos politics. From determining his successors as governors to councillors in local government wards.

It is common to hear, in Lagos political circles, aspirants going to pay homage to Bourdillon, a euphemism for going to Mr Tinubus home at Bourdillon Street, Ikoyi, to get his blessing before aspiring for office.

Anointed governors

Despite Mr Tinubu endorsing the candidacy of a relatively unknown Akinwunmi Ambode ahead of the 2014 APC governorship primaries, the remaining aspirants insisted on going ahead with the primaries.

After the votes were collated, Mr Ambode polled 3,735 votes  out of the 5,700 total votes  to defeat the other 12 aspirants, including Adeyemi Ikuforiji, the Speaker of the Lagos Assembly, who got 182 votes.

Four years later, Mr Tinubu, having fallen out with Mr Ambode, endorsed Babajide Sanwo-Olu, a three-time commissioner, to run against the governor for the APC ticket.

At the end of the controversial direct primary, Mr Sanwo-Olu polled 970,851 votes to defeat Governor Ambode, who scored 72,901.

So earlier this month when Mr Tinubu publicly endorsed Governor Sanwo-Olu and his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, for a second term of four years; it left no one in doubt who the APC flag bearer in the state would be.

Nevertheless, two aspirants threw their hats in the ring.

One of them was Olawale Oluwo, a former commissioner for energy and mineral resources under Governor Ambode. He had resigned his post in 2018 and defected to the PDP after Mr Ambode suffered an embarrassing defeat at the party primary.

The second aspirant was AbdulAhmed Mustapha, who retired as a permanent secretary, also in the ministry of energy and mineral resources.

Both aspirants were barred from entering the venue of the primary last Thursday after the electoral officer claimed they had been disqualified from contesting. Details of why they were disqualified were not provided Mr Mustapha said he only learnt of his disqualification when he arrived at the venue.

Mr Oluwo described the congress as one-sided because it excluded the other aspiring delegates that bought the nomination forms.

The Lagos State APC State Exco, headed by one Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, is complicit in the exercise of this blatant rape of democracy in APC Lagos, he added.

Governor Sanwo-Olu went ahead to win all the votes cast at the primaries and would fly the partys flag at next years election.

Selecting senators

Mr Tinubus wife, Oluremi Tinubu, is the current senator representing Lagos Central. Elected in 2011, she has served three terms  the only senator from Lagos to do so.

The decision to give Lagos Central senatorial district a fresh representation saw the drafting of Wasiu Eshinlokun-Sanni, the deputy speaker of the Lagos Assembly, as a replacement. Mr Eshinlokun-Sanni went ahead to win the ticket, polling 185 votes to defeat his closest rival, Demola Seriki, the Nigerian ambassador to Spain, who polled 97 votes.

In Lagos East, Tokunbo Abiru, the incumbent senator, was elected unopposed.

Mr Abiru was allegedly imposed on the party by Mr Tinubu ahead of the by-election in 2020, after the death of the then-senator, Bayo Oshinowo.

While the elections in both Lagos Central and East senatorial districts were held without rancour, that of the Lagos West took a controversial turn.

With the incumbent senator, Solomon Adeola, switching to Ogun West to continue his aspiration, the door was flung open for a new candidate for the party.

Musiliu Obanikoro, who defected to the party in 2017, appeared to be the front runner for the ticket. But the party leaders had a different plan.

It was gathered that the leaders preferred a female candidate, and former deputy governor, Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, was pencilled down. After procuring the Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms, Mrs Orelope-Adefulire, however, failed to return them or present herself for screening.

The Lagos APC leaders quickly drafted in Idiat Adebule, another former deputy governor, to join the race. There are reports that they procured Mrs Adebules forms after the close of the exercise. PREMIUM TIMES could not yet verify the claims, but only Mr Obanikoro and Kayode Opeifa, a former commissioner, were cleared by the partys screening panel.

However, on Saturday, Mrs Adebule defeated Mr Obanikoro with 424 votes to 119. Mr Opeifa came a distant third with four votes.

Mr Obanikoro immediately rejected the result. He said Mrs Adebule did not obtain the Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms or take part in the screening.

Therefore, it is obvious that the exercise was designed to favour the acclaimed winner who was not even qualified to stand for the election, the former minister said.

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
Doha/New Delhi, June 5 (UNI) Even as Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu is visiting Qatar, controversial remarks and tweets on Prophet Mohammed by BJP functionaries led to the Qatari Foreign Ministry summoning the Indian envoy Deepak Mittal to protest the remarks. The Indian ambassador conveyed that the tweets do not, in any manner, reflect the views of the Government of India, and these are the views of fringe elements.

The Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Deepak Mittal and handed him an official note, expressing the disappointment of the State of Qatar and its total rejection and condemnation to the controversial remarks made by an official in the ruling party in India against Prophet Mohammed, Islam and Muslims.

Soltan bin Saad Al-Muraikhi, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of the State, handed this note to the Ambassador of the Republic of India.

The State of Qatar welcomed the statement issued by the ruling party in India in which it announced the suspension of the party's official from practicing his activities in the party due to his remarks that angered all Muslims around the world.

It also said that Qatar is expecting a public apology and immediate condemnation of these remarks from the Government of India, pointing out that allowing such Islamophobic remarks to continue without punishment, constitutes a grave danger to the protection of human rights and may lead to further prejudice and marginalization, which will create a cycle of violence and hate.

The State of Qatar affirmed that these insulting remakes would lead to incitement of religious hatred, and offend more than two billion Muslims around the world, and indicate the clear ignorance of the pivotal role that Islam has played in the development of civilizations around the world, including in India.

The State of Qatar reaffirmed its full support for the values of tolerance, coexistence and respect for all religions and nationalities, where such as these values distinguish Qatar's global friendships and its relentless work to contribute to the establishment of international peace and security, the Qatari MOFA said.

In response to a media query regarding the statement issued by the Qatar MOfA on an offensive tweet in India, the Spokesperson of the Embassy of India in Qatar said:

Ambassador had a meeting in the Foreign Office in which concerns were raised with regard to some offensive tweets by individuals in India denigrating the religious personality.

Ambassador conveyed that the tweets do not, in any manner, reflect the views of the Government of India. These are the views of fringe elements.

In line with our civilisational heritage and strong cultural traditions of unity in diversity, Government of India accords the highest respect to all religions.

Strong action has already been taken against those who made the derogatory remarks.

A statement has also been issued by concerned quarters emphasizing respect for all religions, denouncing insult to any religious personality or demeaning any religion or sect.

Vested interests that are against India - Qatar relations have been inciting the people using these derogatory comments.

We should work together against such mischievous elements who aim to undercut the strength of our bilateral ties, the Indian response said.

Meanwhile, Delhi BJP media cell head Naveen Kumar Jindals tweet against Prophet Mohammed caused wide discontent in the Arab world with hashtags calling for boycott of India products trending on Twitter.

Twitters users across Gulf reacted with anger causing Jindal to delete the tweet and state that his remarks were not aimed at hurting the religious sentiments of any community.

Jindal tweeted in Hindi that his intent was not to demean any faith, We respect the faith of all religions but the question was only for those mindsets that spread hatred by using indecent comments about our deities. I just asked them a question. It does not mean that we are against any religion.

One of the top trending hashtags on Twitter in Middle Eastern countries such as Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Egypt referred to the matter. The hashtag was widely shared along with calls for boycotting India and Indian products, a Qatari news report said.

On Twitter many people denounced the escalation of hatred against Islam and Muslims in India, saying that it is following in the footsteps of France and China in promoting Islamophobia and hostility.

Delhi BJP unit president Adesh Gupta expelled Jindal for allegedly expressing views on social media that vitiate communal harmony.

Gupta added that Jindal's primary membership from the party was terminated with immediate effect.

The BJP also suspended spokesperson Nupur Sharma for her controversial remarks made during a TV debate.

UNI RN
A grim week for the All Progressives Congress (APC) ended on a positive note with two key developments arriving in quick succession Saturday night to disperse the dark clouds gathering over the party.

The party, penultimate week, got an extra week for the nomination of its presidential candidate, following the shift by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of the deadline for the submission of the lists of candidates for the 2023 General Election.

The electoral umpire announced the shift on May 27, while delegates to the National Convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) were already arriving in Abuja. This left the main opposition party with no choice than to go ahead with the event. On Saturday, it nominated a former vice president, Atiku Abubakar, as its candidate for the second consecutive presidential election.

The APC, which convention was to immediately follow on May 30 and 31, rescheduled its to June 6-8, ignoring accusations by the PDP and some civil society groups that it forced INEC to make the shift.

However, it turned out to be a week from hell for the ruling party, until a flurry of activities Saturday night lightened the gloom.

The first Rays of light came when governors representing 11 northern states issued a statement, asking the APC to nominate its flag bearer from the South.

After careful deliberation, we wish to state our firm conviction that after eight years in office of President Muhammadu Buhari, the presidential candidate of the APC for the 2023 elections should be one of our teeming members from the southern states of Nigeria. It is a question of honour for the APC, an obligation that is not in any way affected by the decisions taken by another political party. We affirm that upholding this principle is in the interest of building a stronger, more united and more progressive country, the governors said in the statement signed by all of them.

By that statement, the governors disclaimed the view being spread by some party members that only a northern candidate can compete against the PDP candidate. The same sentiment had apparently influenced the decision by the PDP to abandon its zoning tradition, resulting in the nomination of Mr Abubakar.

A few hours after the northern governors statement, President Muhammadu Buhari met with the 23 presidential aspirants and urged them to work towards producing a consensus candidate from among them.

Without prejudice to your qualifications, I urge all of you to hold consultations amongst yourselves and with the party, with a view to building a consensus in a manner that would help the party reduce the number of aspirants, bring up a formidable candidate and scale down the anxiety of party members, Mr Buhari said at the meeting.

The presidents tone and careful choice of words at the meeting were significantly different from when he met the 22 APC state governors on Tuesday and dropped what was quickly interpreted as a bombshell, by urging the governors to support him in picking his successor.

His earlier remarks had seemed to confirm the speculation that he had a preferred candidate. That speculation had arisen from a statement he made in an interview with Channel TV in January on his preferred candidate.

The statement also seemed to support the shenanigans going on in the party, which had forced the postponement of the national convention to its current schedule.

Before that postponement and even as the earlier May 29-30 date approached, the party appeared to be deliberately sabotaging or muddling up its own nomination processes. The APC repeatedly shuffled its schedules for the purchase and submission of nomination forms, refused to screen the aspirants or make visible preparations for the convention.

Thus when the president told the governors that he wanted to pick his successor, it sounded like a desperate final attempt to shut out a candidate.

The governors had after the meeting immediately gone into a conclave to recommend candidates for his consideration.

To many observers, the target of the consensus candidate proposition was plain.

Mr Tinubu bears the title of national leader of the party and is widely regarded as the man to beat in the APC presidential primary.

But for reasons that have not been fully explained, the president insinuated not to want his old political ally to take the ticket and, even more strangely, had also chosen not to tell Mr Tinubu so, except by subterfuge.

According to his close associates, after Mr Tinubu decided to declare his presidential bid last October, he went to the Aso Rock Villa to inform the president.

He had told us that if the president was not warm to his ambition, he would drop it but would insist that the president involved him in determining who the candidate would be. But when the president responded by saying, Oh fine, lets see who will come out to declare after you have declared, Jagaban took it as an endorsement of his ambition by the president, one of the associates told PREMIUM TIMES.

Mr Buhari was never oblivious of Mr Tinubus ambition. From the beginning of their talks which culminated in the formation of the APC in February 2013, Mr Buhari had envisioned both of them running for president together, until he accepted that he could not run with a fellow Muslim as his sidekick.

But after his election in 2015, the president appeared to have kept Mr Tinubu at bay as a tiny circle of relatives, aides and old associates, called the cabal by the Nigerian media, seemed to take control.

In his astonishing outburst in Abeokuta on Thursday, Mr Tinubu said: Since he became the president, I have never got ministerial slots, I didnt collect any contract, I have never begged for anything from him, confirming how the president had kept him out of the loop despite his roles in the formation of the APC and repeated elections of Mr Buhari.

However, it was not the first time such complaint would come to the public from his end. In February 2018, Oluremi, the senator wife of Mr Tinubu, said during an appearance on TV Continentals Your View in Lagos: I was hurt with, you know, what they did to my husband after the campaign. Occasionally Ill chip in and say, youre still helping out? Why are you helping out? But he would often reply: This country matters to me most.

The two appeared to have mended fence when the president announced that Mr Tinubu would take full charge of his reelection campaign in 2019. It is now safe to say that Mrs Tinubus mood has not changed much over her husbands influence in the second term of Mr Buharis presidency.

According to some analysts, Mr Tinubu should have seen the handwriting on the wall from the weeks after his declaration in January.

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo declared too on April 11, two days after the then Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, announced his own bid at a grand ceremony in Port Hacourt.

By the time the party finally closed the sale of nomination forms on May 10, 28 aspirants had purchased the N100 million forms, including former President Goodluck Jonathan, CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele and President of the African Development Bank, Akinwunmi Adesina, who until then were not associated with the APC.

The multiplicity of aspirants and the circus around the interests of especially Messrs Jonathan and Emefiele showed that something fishy was going on in the ruling party. It soon became clear who the target was.

One of the aspirants who resigned as minister last month told PREMIUM TIMES that all of them bought the forms in anticipation of endorsement by the president, except Tinubu.

According to the aspirant, I have gone around some states to meet with the delegates but that is only as Plan B. We are all looking up to the president but unfortunately, nobody knows his mind.

The chairman of the APC presidential screening committee, John Odigie-Oyegun, corroborated that claim on Thursday when he said all the aspirants accepted consensus as an option for selecting the partys candidate, except one of them who said he would only accept the option if he is the choice. No prize for guessing who that aspirant is.

The partys nomination forms include a withdrawal form which requires aspirants to affirm that they agreed to withdraw for the consensus candidate of the party. Mr Tinubu reportedly refused to sign that form.

One of the options the Electoral Act 2022 stipulates for nomination of candidates is consensus. Section 84 states:

(9) A political party that adopts a consensus candidate shall secure the written consent of all cleared aspirants for the position, indicating their voluntary withdrawal from the race and their endorsement of the consensus candidate.

(10) Where a political party is unable to secure the written consent of all cleared aspirants for the purpose of a consensus candidate, it shall revert to the choice of direct or indirect primaries for the nomination of candidates for the aforesaid elective positions.

But in Nigerias ruling party, consensus was being turned into a bye-word for imposition, in this case by the president.

Buharis hands?

Until that Tuesday meeting with the governors, the president had feigned aloofness to the process while the media blamed the cabal for the shenanigans in the party.

Had he finally shown his hands at that meeting?

It is noteworthy that many newspapers missed that bombshell in their first reports, largely focusing on earlier paragraphs where he dictated the qualities the party should look for in its potential presidential candidate.

His media aide, Femi Adesina, who flew to Spain with the president immediately after the meeting with the governors, later said the president did not ask to handpick his successor, indicating that the two paragraphs containing that request were added to the text later made available to journalists.

The presidents speech expectedly created a storm in the newspapers and social media, with many interpreting it as the president telling Mr Tinubu to hang up his boots.

It was a surprise, therefore, that the day after, Mr Tinubu appeared in Calabar in continuation of his campaign. In his delegation was the governor of Kano, Abdullahi Ganduje, who had attended the meeting with the president and subsequent ones that the governors held on the same issue.

Was the trip an indication that Mr Tinubu did not believe he was the main target for elimination from the race? Or was he baring his own teeth and telling the president to expect a fight? His outburst in Abeokuta on Thursday supported the latter conjecture.

Mr Tinubu on Saturday tried to temper the sting of his remarks on the president. In a statement he personally signed, the aspirant said: Let me also erase any doubt. My respect and regard for President Buhari as Commander-in-Chief of this nation and as a person are high and unfailing. I shall never denigrate him.

I certainly did not do so in Abeokuta. We have been political partners for a long time and I hope that our partnership continues well into the future. I would do nothing to jeopardise it. I believe our party is the best hope for the nation to right itself. I believe I have a future role larger than the one I now have. I also believe President Buhari has a continuing and important role to play even after his tenure as president is over, Mr Tinubu added.

How far can Tinubu go?

Notwithstanding the apology, it appeared by Saturday afternoon that Mr Tinubus goose was cooked. There was no way they would allow him to run in the primary, people were saying on social media.

Responding to a question from a journalist on the issue, the national chairman of the party, Abdullahi Adamu, said the party might punish him for insulting the president.

We are saddened by what we saw in the video and pray that we dont see such again. I, as the chairman of this party, have a duty to stand by Mr President.

But the North-West National Vice Chairman of the party, Salihu Lukman, said Mr Adamu was only expressing his personal opinion and that the issue should not be blown out of proportion.

We all, including Asiwaju himself, acknowledged that it was unfortunate that he made those statements and it is his right to express his frustration, it should be recognised as such. But nobody, no matter the position of the person, can use it against him unless the party follows due process through the rightful organs of the party to discuss it.

When the party announced that it had cleared only 13 youthful aspirants, it was widely speculated that he was among the 10 excused. But he wasnt.

Buhari not after Tinubu?

Does the presidents action on Saturday show that the rift between him and Mr Tinubu exist only in peoples imagination? That rift seemed real and foreboding for the APC and was a source of concern for party members.

Or did Mr Tinubus outburst force his adversaries into a quick retreat?

The president on Saturday did not come across as one who wants to impose a candidate on the party.

If that is the case, the former Lagos governor is still in the race. But will his outburst in Abeokuta affect his chances, even if there is no official machination to stop him in his track? How far can he go?

Mr Tinubus nomination forms were signed by 12 state governors. Many of the aspirants agree off the record that he is the one most likely to win a contested primary and that he has enough support across the country to run a strong presidential campaign.

The party has advised 10 of the 23 aspirants to withdraw, as they are deemed to have no path to nomination or the capacity to win the general election.

It is not known yet if the three other northern aspirants will accept the counsel of their governors and leave the field for the southern aspirants.

If they do, there may be just nine aspirants left in the race, two days to the convention.

On Saturday, Southwest leaders again broached with their aspirants the idea of a consensus but the effort again failed. No matter how many names appear on the ballot at the convention Tuesday evening, the bets will be on only three of them.

Atikus deft post-primary moves

It is easy to forget that Atiku Abubakar was elected the presidential candidate of the PDP only a week ago. Since then, the former vice presidents deft moves has drawn his vanquished opponents to his side and is reconciling the party ahead of the general election.

The reconciliation began even before the first vote was cast for Mr Abubakar at the May 29 National Convention in Abuja when Aminu Tambuwal announced his withdrawal for him.

The National Chairman of the party, Iyorchia Ayu, considered the gesture of the Sokoto State governor so significant that he called him the hero of the convention during a visit to Mr Tambuwals house in Abuja a day after the primary.

But it was the appeasement of the Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike that best demonstrates the effectiveness of Mr Abubakars charm offensive. The governor ran such a strong race that he believed he would have won had the Northern power brokers not turned the tide by orchestrating Mr Tambuwals withdrawal.

Mr Wike was so bitter that he walked out of the convention before the election was called and did not mince his words afterwards in condemning Mr Tambuwals action and the party for allowing the announcement just before voting got underway.

Yet, it took Mr Abubakar only a few days to suck out the bad blood from the governors heart after visiting him at home in Abuja on Monday. The governor returned the visit and has pledged his commitment to the PDPs and Mr Abubakars causes at the general election.

However, nervous days remain ahead as the candidate walks the tight rope of picking his running mate. On this, he is reported to be working with the Board of Trustees of the party and his long-time friend, Mr Ayu.

Picking a running mate after such a bruising primary is a tricky business even for the politically adroit like Mr Abubakar. Mr Wike won 237 votes from the 667 delegates at the convention. A PREMIUM TIMES investigation revealed that he picked those votes from across the country, indicating a wide network of support. This newspaper reported that he is in the frame for the vice presidential pick.

But picking him may also annoy those whose support helped Mr Abubakar to beat him. Some of them would have secured pledges of appointment or other promises before throwing their support behind him.

Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State pulled the states delegates behind Mr Abubakar. He has also been mentioned as a possible running mate. His state is almost as strategic as Rivers, so how would he understand being overlooked, especially for the chief target of their alliance at the primary? The two South-south governors are also said not to be friends.

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
The majority leader of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Oluwole Ogunmolasuyi, has said that Sundays attack at St Francis Catholic Church, Owo, affected about 100 persons.

Mr Ogunmolasuyi, the lawmaker representing Owo Constituency 1, said he visited the church and hospital to see the victims.

Its a very sad incident. Of course, it had already happened before I got there. I saw thousands of angry youths. It was barbaric, never experienced in the history of Ondo State, he said.

We should be looking at a casualty figure of between 70 and 100. I saw more than 20 people dead, especially children.

Scores of worshippers were killed and injured after gunmen attacked the church on Sunday morning.

President Muhammadu Buhari condemned the attack and added that Nigeria will never give in to evil and wicked people.

Governor Rotimi Akeredolu described the incident as vile and satanic.

Mr Ogunmolasuyi said he spoke with the parent of a survivor and was told that the attackers were herdsmen.

They were shooting and they also used dynamite, he said.

The governor has really worked on security in the state, which is why we never believed something like this will happen in Ondo.

23 people killed

An official at the Federal Medical Centre, Owo, told our correspondent that 23 bodies had been admitted to the morgue of the hospital, two of which are children.

The official, who would not want to be named because he was not authorised to speak, said the 28 persons who are survivors, are still receiving medical attention, noting that they sustained very serious injuries.

Of the number, 17 are females while 11 are males, the official said.

They are relatively stable and are being attended to by general and orthopaedic surgeons at the hospitals theatre.

He also said that 13 children were rushed in immediately after the incident, but two arrived at the hospital already dead.

The other 10 children are receiving treatment and are relatively stable, the source said.

A witness, who identified herself as Toyin, said the terrorists attacked the church while the priest was rounding off proceedings of the service.

They first started by throwing in explosives into the church hall, which sent the worshipers scampering for safety, she said.

It was while they were running for safety that the attackers started shooting at them.

It initially thought that the Reverend Father was kidnapped, but he was not kidnapped, he survived the attack.

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
President Muhammadu Buhari has described the gas explosion at a liquefied gas retail outlet in Kano on Friday as extremely horrific, saying he is distressed by the accident, the second in the city in a month.

PREMIUM TIMES reported how a gas explosion at a Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) refiling shop has burnt down shops and injured 20 people in the state.

The incident occurred at a busy area of Sheka quarters, Karshen-Kwalta in the Kano metropolis on Thursday.

The presidents media aide, Garba Shehu, in a statement, said the president is worried about the 201 residents who were hospitalised after inhaling chemicals from a cylinder dismantled by metal scrappers.

I am shocked and pained to hear about this tragic incident, so soon after the last gas explosion. Our brave emergency response agencies and medical workers are trying their best to save lives. We are in constant touch with the field workers and the hospitals, the president was quoted as saying.

Mr Shehu said the president also commended the immediate response of the government of Kano State and the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development.

Mr Buhari also thanked hospitals in the state, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMA) and the Nigerian Red Cross, for their support to the victims.

The president wished all the injured a very quick recovery.

PREMIUM TIMES learned that the fire destroyed about three nearby shops, including part of a house attached to the shop.

The latest incident happened less than a month after at least nine people were killed in an explosion in the Sabon Gari area of the state.

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
Some members of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Badagry on Saturday organised special prayers for Bola Tinubu, one of the presidential aspirants, to be victorious in the upcoming party primaries.

Ibrahim Layode, the lawmaker representing Badagry Constituency 1 in the Lagos House of Assembly, said the gathering was to solicit Gods help for the national leader.

We are here to pray and solicit support for our father, the Jagaban of the Universe, Tinubu, so that he will emerge victorious on June 6 in the presidential primary in Abuja.

We are calling on our people from the six wards that they should pray for our national leader in their different ways so that he will defeat all challenges during the presidential primary.

His victory will enable us to come out on Tuesday for celebration, he said.

Mr Layode said the event was also an avenue to seek the support of the residents in the coming election in 2023.

Some primaries have come and gone, the avenue is to reconcile some aspirants who lost in the primaries to come together and forget the past and work for the progress of the candidate of the party.

We have candidates in the Senate, House of Representatives, and House of Assembly, we are seeking the support of people to emerge victorious during the general election, he said.

Also speaking, Sunday Kappo, a party member, said the gathering was to appreciate Badagry people for their support.

ALSO READ: APC threatens to punish Tinubu over comment on Buhari

This is also avenue for prayer for our national leader who will be facing so many challenges during the primary.

Whatever opposition that confronts him on June 6, he will be victorious, so that most of the good work he did in Lagos will be extended to the national level, he said.

Joseph Agoro, former secretary of Badagry-West Local Council Development Area, said the gathering was also to congratulate Solomon Bonu, who was officially confirmed the APC candidate for Badagry Constituency 1.

The entire constituency 1 of Badagry has come out to congratulate Bonu over his victory in the primary conducted on May 27, he said.

Friday Williams, one of the aspirants that contested with Mr Bonu, said all the six aspirants had come together to support him and promised to canvas for votes for him in the 2023 general election.

Mr Bonu promised not to disappoint his constituents if voted into the House of Assembly in the 2023 election.

NAN reports that party faithful from different wards in Badagry were seen walking and praying for a successful primary for Mr Tinubu. (NAN)

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
One year after the demise of Temitope Babatunde Joshua, known as TB Joshua, followers of the late charismatic preacher on Sunday thronged the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN), Ikotun, Lagos, to celebrate his legacies.

The event, also attended by followers from diverse foreign nations, was filled with nostalgia of glamorous and spirit-filled worship in the people, as it was during the days of TB Joshua.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos reports that the church has been operating low-key since the passing on of the founder, in honour of the departed preacher and philanthropist.

The first memorial anniversary service had the theme: Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Prophet TB Joshua.

It featured some Nigerian celebrities including popular comedian Ali Baba, K C Brown, and Tee Mac who entertained people.

Many foreign gospel ministers who also attended the service included Pastor Freyle from Colombia, William Ghaltas from Bethlehem, Obispo Elvis from the Dominican Republic, and Trevor Williamson and his wife from the Bahamas.

Others included Bernard Mulder of South Africa and Steven Ogedengbe from Nigeria.

In his welcome remark at the event, Mr Williamson asked the worshippers to celebrate for  TB Joshua is not dead, but lives on.

Since the day he exited to the higher realm, he has continued to appear to me in dreams with messages of upliftment to the congregation.

He is with the Lord resting for the mission he accomplished here on earth.

He is in heaven advocating for you, therefore, be happy and worship God in its true sense.

His legacy, faith, and good works while here speaks volume of a prophet anointed by God to save and serve the people at the global level, he said.

He thanked the leadership of the church especially the president of SCOAN, Evelyn Joshua, wife of the late founder for keeping faith and the structural renewal of the church.

He affirmed that the church would continue the spiritual warfare against demons, deliverance, and humanitarian works aside from other services to the people.

He added that those services were what the church was known for as the prophets legacy.

Phillip Kato, a SCOAN worshipper, told NAN that to him, the presence of TB Joshua was still very much in the Synagogue.

 He might be physically dead but he lives on in the works and charity he did while he was here on Earth.

Damian Amora said he came all the way from Benin City for the occasion.

TB Joshua left a huge legacy. He touched the lives of many.

 He was a giver. He was a healer. I believe he walked with the Lord. His preaching made a positive impact on me. I miss him a lot, he told NAN.

Ajoke Adebanjo said she came from Ibadan to join in the memorial.

According to her, while TB Joshua was alive, she got many healings and testimonies from the church, by practising the wise teachings of the late prophet and living out what the word of God says in the Bible.

NAN reports that TB Joshua, Nigerian pastor, televangelist, philanthropist, leader, and founder of The Synagogue Church of All Nations, passed on June 5, 2021, at the age of 57.

He would have been 58 on June 12, 2021.

TB Joshua was one of the most controversial and enigmatic Nigerian pastors of our time, especially with his preaching style and records of miracle performances.

In 1987, TB Joshua founded The SCOAN under the bridge that links Ejigbo and Egbe in Lagos State, with just a few members.

The church later grew to have a large number of members within and outside Nigeria, Africa, and Latin America.

He established the Emmanuel TV television station from Lagos, which has wide viewership, especially as it is on cable TV.

TB Joshua was a known philanthropist and noted for helping the needy and sponsoring persons.

Like many influential men, TB Joshua was not without controversies.

On September 12, 2014, a guesthouse collapsed on the SCOANs premises in Lagos, killing no fewer than 115 people.

Many speculate he had a premonition of his death.

This is as some of his last memorable words when he spoke during the Emmanuel TV Partners Meeting on Saturday before his demise later, were: Time for everything  time to come here for prayer and time to return home after the service.

According to the Synagogue church, TB Joshua left a legacy of service and sacrifice to Gods Kingdom which will continue to live on for generations yet unborn. (NAN)

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
The FCT Minister, Muhammad Bello, has condemned the mob attack on citizen Ahmad Usman which culminated in his death on June 4.

Mr Bello, in a statement on Sunday in Abuja by his spokesperson, Anthony Ogunleye, reiterated that no one had the right to take the laws into their hands, no matter the circumstances or perceived level of provocation.

He said the FCT Administration would not tolerate any form of mob attacks on any residents of the territory or the breakdown of law and order.

The minister called on the security agencies to ensure that all those who participated in this heinous act were apprehended and prosecuted.

He reminded residents that FCT was founded on the premises of national unity, peace and love for country and fellow countrymen.

According to him, the action of the mob at Lugbe negates all of these principles and will not be tolerated.

The minister assured residents of their safety at all times and urged them to go about their lawful affairs without fear of molestation.

He also called for their cooperation in securing their communities by reporting to the security agencies whenever suspicious persons or actions were identified.

(NAN)

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
Former Vice President of Nigeria and presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, has said he is devastated by reports of loss of scores of lives following the attack on St. Francis Catholic Church, Owa-luwa, in Owo

Mr Atiku in a statement by his Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, condemned the attack and any such attack on a worship centre as unacceptable.

Any attack on innocent citizens indeed of a gathering of worshippers in any place in Nigeria stands condemned; it is a red line, Mr Atiku said.

My prayers are with the people of Owo, especially families of the deceased. I do hope that the state government and relevant security agencies will leave no stones unturned in apprehending the criminals.

I condole with all the affected families; the St. Francis Catholic Church Owa-luwa; the body of Catholic faithful in Nigeria and the people and government of Ondo State.

Even as I pray that someday, very soon, we shall have a lasting solution to these painful episodes, I urge the security agencies not to relent in their efforts to fish out the culprits and bring them to justice.

Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti described the killing of the worshippers as barbaric, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Yinka Oyebode.

According to him, there can never be any justification for the heinous behaviour of the assailants.

The governor also commiserated with Governor Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN) and the people of Ondo State on the incident.

He urged security agencies in the state to ensure that the perpetrators of the crime were apprehended and made to face the wrath of the law.

Mr Fayemi also tasked them to remain vigilant.

The perpetrators of this dastardly act should not go unpunished. We call on relevant security agencies in the state to spring into action and ensure that they are brought to book.

Our condolences to the government and good people of Ondo state as well as families that lost their loved ones in the carnage, he said.

In solidarity with the sister state, the governor, however, directed the Ekiti Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Banji Filani, to immediately send human and medical resources to Ondo state.

(NAN)

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, has condemned an alleged attack on a journalist in the state by a police officer, Ezra Yuguda.

Mr Yuguda, a deputy superintendent of police, is the commandant at the Government House, Uyo.

The officer reportedly assaulted the journalist, Harrison Essien, who works with the state-owned radio station, AKBC-Radio, while he (Essien) was covering the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) primaries in the state.

The incident happened on May 22, at the state secretariat of the PDP in Uyo.

The PDP accredited Mr Essien to cover its State and National Assembly primaries.

The journalist told PREMIUM TIMES, on Sunday, the officer slapped him on the face and threw him to the ground.

He said the officer ordered everyone out of the party secretariat at about 10 a.m. and started chasing people out.

The officer allegedly assaulted him when he showed him his press identity card and was trying to explain to him he was accredited to cover the primaries, Mr Essien said.

Two other journalists carried him from the ground and assisted him to a car after the incident, he said.

The NUJ, in a communique issued on June 3 after its Congress, demanded an apology and Mr Yugudas removal from the Akwa Ibom Government House.

The communique was signed by the State Chairman of NUJ, Amos Etuk, and the Secretary, Dominic Akpan, among other journalists.

The NUJ has also petitioned the Commissioner of Police in the state, demanding compensation for the assaulted journalist.

The police spokesperson in the state, Odiko Macdon, said he was not aware of the incident.

Mr Macdon requested the communique which our reporter forwarded to him, but did not, however, respond to further calls as at the time of filing this report.

Mr Yuguda was involved in a similar incident in May 2021 when the Nigerian Bar Association in the state staged a peaceful protest at the Government House, Uyo, over the agitation for judiciary autonomy.

In the video clip of the incident posted on Facebook, Mr Yuguda could be heard shouting I will smoke you if you pass this place, at the lawyers who wanted to be addressed by the State Governor, Udom Emmanuel.

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
Many Nigerians have expressed displeasure about the rate at which electoral processes have been tied to the use of money and other values in recent times.

A cross-section of those who spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday expressed displeasure on the development.

Peter Kua, a businessman in Makurdi, Benue State, said that the way and manner money is used in politics has become very worrisome.

People with questionable characters use money to buy their ways into various elective positions.

It is very sad that the masses have been mortgaging their rights and the future of their children because of peanuts.

We are encouraging these people who brandish or throw money at us to take advantage of our gullibility to further impoverish us, Mr Kua said.

Also, Tersoo Ade, a taxi driver in Makurdi, appealed to the National Assembly for the interest of the nation to adopt direct primaries as the only mode of party primaries to check the influence of moneybags.

Mr Ade stressed that if direct primaries were adopted and enshrined in the Electoral Law, it would go a long way to save the Nigerian political system from total collapse.

Corroborating Mr Ade, Jacob Terwase lamented that if nothing was done about the ugly development, only money bags could win election in the country.

Without money, one cannot make any meaningful move in any political party even if he was an angel because stakeholders always expect transportation fare whether they visited or the aspirants visited them.

If something was not done about it, only the highest bidders will be picking parties tickets.

My brother, money has destroyed our politics completely. Just see what happened during the last PDP primaries here in Makurdi where state House of Assembly aspirants were offering each delegate N1 million.

We even have a situation where a House of Representatives aspirant was offering N1.5 million yet he still lost because his opponent offered more, Mr Terwase said.

Another resident, Charity Tyolaha, said that for the country to produce a credible leader, serious efforts must be put in place to mitigate the use of money in politics.

Mrs Tyolaha also said that the direct form of primaries remained the best option and urged stakeholders to go for it.

She said that if direct primaries were adopted as the mode of primaries, many people in leadership positions would not be there.

The Campaign for Democracy, Human Rights Advocacy, Civil Society in Niger, therefore, called on the National Assembly to come up with stringent laws to discourage increasing money politics by politicians in the country.

Abdullahi Jabi, the chairman of the group, said: The amended electoral law of 2022 is not strong enough to tackle the numerous corruption going on in our electoral system.

Therefore, there is the need for the National Assembly to come up with stringent laws that will reduce the current huge amount of money that a politician must spend to win elective position.

The same law must monitor the bank details and spending of political parties and their Aspirants/Candidates.

Mr Jabi said that the measure would encourage responsible Nigerians who wish to serve the people to participate in politics.

He said that responsible Nigerians who want to serve the country have been denied the opportunity owing to their financial strength as a result of increased monetization of the polity.

For instance, ordinary Nigerians can not afford to purchase expression of interest forms under their various political parties because money for such forms are on the high side, meant for the rich alone.

Our politics still remain the exclusive rights of our politicians who have embezzled public funds and their families.

These people still want to remain in power at all cost because they have converted our national treasury to their family business, he said.

The groups chairman described the ongoing party primary elections as a shame and disgrace to the country.

Today delegates have become rich overnight because of money offered them by corrupt politicians, some of them get from N15 million to N20 million each.

This is what is currently going on in the primary elections conducted so far, it is sad and not a good development for our country, he said.

He enjoined Nigerians to stand against these group of politicians or they would continue to perpetuate themselves in power and plant other members of their families before leaving the scene.

In his view, Hamzat Lawal, the executive director, Connected Development, a civil society organisation, called on all anti-corruption agencies to scale up their games to check the rising money politics in Nigeria.

Mr Lawal, an anti-corruption activist and founder of Follow the Money, said the fact that money politics is still playing precedent in Nigeria, it clearly signifies that the anti-corruption agencies are not doing enough.

If the anti-corruption agencies are doing enough, people with money bags would have been scared to use money to entice or induce voters for their gains.

If we must get it right, we must embrace our value system which has been eroded because we exchange our rights for a one-day meagre stipend and suffered in penury for the four or eight years the candidate will spend in office.

It is really sad that money politics has taken its toll on the entire electioneering processes in Nigeria.

Interestingly, the civil society organisations have deployed observers who are monitoring and documenting the entire process of the parties primaries and the forthcoming general elections.

We shall in due cause make known our findings to the public including the international communities, he said.

Nathaniel Abaniwo, the coordinator of Kogi NGOs Network (KONGONET), said money politics has become endemic in Nigerias political system and is not healthy for our political landscape and our economy.

He blamed part of the problem on the failure of government at all levels to muster and imbibe the political will to reduce the cost of governance and ensure transparency, and accountability at all levels.

Mr Abaniwo called for adequate involvement of anti-graft agencies in proper monitoring of election process at all stages while ensuring the prosecution of erring politicians and the electorate.

ALSO READ: PDP delegate shares bribe money allegedly received for participating in primary

A farmer and retired civil servant, Hafsat Ibrahim, said money politics in Kogi has denied credible and God-fearing politicians opportunities to represent the suffering electorate.

She expressed regret that the very people or organs who should help checkmate the menace are deep into it and so only God can bring the change to save the suffering masses.

My worry and pain is that its women like me and our youths, who form the larger population of voters are vulnerable to this game of money politics, she said.

Olugbenga Ademola, a lawyer and politician, stressed the need for the government and the relevant stakeholders to redress the anomalies.

He warned, if nothing drastic is done about this disturbing trend, only those with the cash to throw around to buy their way fraudulently into electoral offices in the 2023 general elections.

There are still some loopholes needed to be addressed in the Electoral Act 2002, 2006 and 2010 such as Section 91(9) which states that no individual or other entity shall donate more than N1 million to any candidate.

Also, Section 93(2)(b) gives political parties leverage to receive unlimited amounts above the threshold, which is contradictory.

Each party is required to record and keep the name and address of any person or entity that contributes any money or assets which exceed N1 million.

Some candidates latched on the lacuna to technically overshoot the limit by transferring the extra cash to their party.

Other donors also took advantage of the provision to donate funds running into billions of Naira, on behalf of several unnamed friends.

Mr Ademola noted that this is the time to de-emphasize money politics and push for a robust human face party manifestoes that can proffer lasting solutions to the most pressing needs of the people.

He then enjoined INEC to rise to the occasion and prosecute anyone found wanting for infringing on political finance regulations to serve as a lesson to others.

(NAN)

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Sokoto State has named the state governor, Aminu Tambuwal, as one of its senatorial candidates in the 2023 general elections.

Mr Tambuwal will now challenge the candidates of other parties including his former political ally and incumbent, Danbaba Danbuwa, who decamped to the All Progressive Congress (APC) earlier this year.

The governor is now the PDPs flagbearer for the Sokoto South district.

PREMIUM TIMES had exclusively reported how Mr Tambuwal appointed one of his close allies, Aminu Bodinga, the immediate former Commissioner of Land and Housing, as a placeholder for the APC ticket while he contested the PDP presidential primary.

Mr Tambuwal stepped down for a former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, just before voting commenced at the presidential primary. He also asked his supporters to vote for Mr Abubakar.

Flagbearer

Mr Tambuwals spokesman, Muhammad Bello, told PREMIUM TIMES that the governor has won the senate ticket and the party has officially affirmed him as its Sokoto South candidate.

He, however, did not explain if the party conducted a fresh primary election as provided by Section 33 of the Electoral Act.

PREMIUM TIMES learnt that Mr Bodinga formally notified the party of his decision to withdraw from the race.

Why it is Possible

While the time for the primary election for National Assembly members of the PDP has elapsed, Mr Tambuwal still has the chance to contest in the general elections.

But this can only happen with the help of the candidate holding the ticket.

Section 31 of the Electoral Act states that a candidate can withdraw and the party can replace him with another candidate.

The section reads: A candidate may withdraw his or her candidature by notice in writing signed by themselves and delivered personally by the candidate of the political party that nominated him for the election and the political party shall convey such withdrawal to the commission not later than 90 days to the election.

Section 33 of the Electoral Act then provides for how such a candidate should be replaced.

A political party shall not be allowed to change or substitute a candidate whose name has been submitted under section 29 of this Act except in the case of death or withdrawal of a candidate.

Provided in the case of withdrawal or death of candidates, the political party affected shall, within 14 days of the occurrence of the event, hold a fresh primary election to produce and submit to the commission for the election concerns.

This is not the first time Mr Tambuwal would seek a lesser position after losing a presidential primary.

In 2018, after losing the PDP presidential primary, Mr Tambuwal returned to Sokoto to reclaim his governorship ticket.

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
Srinagar, June 5 (UNI) After the gap of two years, the first batch of 145 pilgrims from Srinagar left for Saudi Arabia to perform this years Hajj pilgrimage.

Aijaz Hussain Member Hajj Committee, along with Commissioner Secretary Revenue Vijay Kumar, Dy CEO HCoI Javed Ahmed and CEO JK Haj committee flagged off the first batch of 145 Hajis from Hajj House Bemina, Srinagar.

At least 6000 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh will perform this year's Hajj in Saudi Arabia. Total 5400 pilgrims from Kashmir valley and others from Jammu and Ladakh to perform Hajj 2022.

The Hajj pilgrimage resumes after two years after Covid-19 restrictions were lifted by the Saudi Arabia government for the pilgrims.

Total 145 Haj pilgrims shrouded in white boarded the first flight from Srinagar International Airport for Saudi Arabia.

Two-to-three Hajj flights will take off from Srinagar international airport daily till June 20.

The pilgrims reached Hajj house Bemina where they were provided with necessary documents before they boarded buses for the Srinagar International Airport.

Emotional scenes were seen at the Hajj House Bemina where relatives of Hajj pilgrims were seen hugging each other reciting Allah-ho-Akbar (God is the greatest) before boarding the buses.

The pilgrims said that they will pray for the peace, prosperity and stability and the traditional brotherhood between Hindu, Muslims and Sikh unity in the Kashmir valley during their Hajj pilgrimage.

The authorities had made adequate arrangements for the smooth passage of the pilgrims at Hajj house Bemina.

Executive Officer Hajj house Abdul Salam said the Hajis have to undergo RT-PCR Covid-19 test 72 hours before boarding a flight to Saudi Arabia for the pilgrimage.

He said that every pilgrim was provided 2100 Saudi Riyals for their expenditure in Saudi Arabi. Besides, tags for their accommodation in Saudi Arabia were also provided.

The pilgrims who will come from Ladakh and Jammu will have to reach Srinagar Hajj House three days before their departure to fulfill all requirements and their staying, boarding and other arrangements are being taken care by the officials of Hajj house.

UNI QAB
Less than 12 hours after President Muhammadu Buhari urged APC presidential aspirants to meet and come up with a consensus candidate, one of them, Godswill Akpabio, said he will not withdraw from the race.

Mr Akpabios position also comes less than 24 hours to the commencement of the presidential primary of the ruling party, APC.

There have been rumours online that the former Senate Minority Leader has withdrawn from the race in favour of an aspirant from the South-west.

But Mr Akpabio, in a post on Facebook on Sunday morning, described the news as wicked lies and urged delegates to disregard it.

Dear national delegates, please disregard the wicked lies making the rounds that I, your choice for the office of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 2023, has withdrawn from the race.

I have not withdrawn from the race because I know you are solidly behind my aspiration. I will not withdraw because I have your support.

Together, we will triumph and I will emerge the presidential candidate of our party and we will march together to win the presidential election, he said.

Mr Akpabio, a former governor of Akwa Ibom State, recently resigned as Minister of Niger Delta Affairs to focus on his aspiration of securing the ticket of the ruling party to contest the 2023 presidential election.

He has been travelling around the country to seek the support of APC delegates. He was in Edo State on Saturday to meet with the partys delegates.

Mr Akpabio is one of the 23 aspirants cleared by the APC to take part in its presidential election taking place in Abuja from Monday to Wednesday.

PREMIUM TIMES reported how President Muhammadu Buhari told the aspirants, on Saturday, to consult and produce a consensus candidate among themselves.

Apart from Mr Akpabio, the other APC presidential aspirants include Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Senate President Ahmad Lawan, ex-Lagos governor Bola Tinubu, Ekiti Governor Kayode Fayemi and Ebonyi Governor David Umahi.

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
Non-state actors last week (May 29  June 4) killed at least 48 persons in various attacks across Nigeria.

The figure this week indicates a decline when compared to the previous week where over 70 persons were killed across five geopolitical zones.

A total of five incidents were recorded across three geopolitical zones.

One of the incidents was the killing of 43 suspected terrorists in Zamfara during a clash with rival terrorist groups.

Three of the victims were police officers who were killed in two states in the South-east geopolitical zone.

PREMIUM TIMES compiled the incidents from media reports. Thus, unreported cases are not included.

Below are the recorded incidents:

South-east

One police officer was, on Sunday, killed when gunmen attacked a police checkpoint in Ogidi, Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra state.

The police spokesperson in the state, Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incident to PREMIUM TIMES Monday morning. He said the incident happened around 12: 50 p.m.

Still in the South-east, gunmen reportedly killed another set of two policemen guarding a mechanic workshop of a private transport firm, Royal Mass in Enugu Ezike, Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State.

The incident, which happened on Thursday, around 11 a.m. at Mkpanpu Village near the council headquarters involved an inspector and a sergeant.

North-west

No fewer than 43 terrorists including a notorious bandits kingpin, Dullu, were reportedly killed in a clash between rival terrorist groups that lasted for two days in a forest in Zamfara State.

According to TVC News, the fight started between the two rival groups led by a notorious bandits leader, Bello Turji, and the other led by another bandits kingpin, Dullu, near Maniya village in the Shinkafi local government area of the state.

North-central

At least one person was confirmed dead after a bomb explosion hit the Okengwe, Okene Local Government Area of Kogi State.

The incident which occurred on Thursday evening comes after three similar attacks in the past few weeks.

In the FCT, a mob on Saturday killed a member of a vigilance group for reportedly making a blasphemous statement.

It was gathered that members of the vigilance group guarding the Timber shed market at the Federal Housing Estate in Abuja had wanted to arrest some residents wandering around the market in the early hours of Saturday.

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
The governor of Ondo State, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, has condemned the killings by gunmen of some worshippers at St Francis Catholic Church, Owo, on Sunday.

This newspaper reported earlier that scores of worshippers died in the attack on the church located close to the palace of the traditional ruler of the town, Olowo of Owo, Oba Gbadegesin Ogunoye.

Several others who sustained various injuries in the attack have been taken to the Federal Medical Centre, Owo, for treatment.

In a statement on Sunday by his spokesperson, Richard Olatunde, Mr Akeredolu said: the vile and satanic attack is a calculated assault on the peace-loving people of Owo Kingdom who have enjoyed relative peace over the years.

Funmilayo Odunlami, the police spokesperson in the state, confirmed the incident but said the police are yet to get details.

Read the Governors full statement below:

Owo Attack: We Will Hunt Down Assailants, Make Them Pay-Akeredolu

Condemns Attack, Condoles With Families of The Victims

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, is deeply saddened by the unprovoked attack and killing of innocent people of Owo, worshipping at the St Francis Catholic Church, Owa-luwa Street, on Sunday.

The vile and satanic attack is a calculated assault on the peace-loving people of Owo Kingdom who have enjoyed relative peace over the years.

It is a black Sunday in Owo. Our hearts are heavy. Our peace and tranquillity have been attacked by the enemies of the people. This is a personal loss, an attack on our dear state.

I have spoken to the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Ondo, Most Reverend Jude Arogundade, who is presently on his way to Owo. Similarly, I have had to cut short my partys national assignment in Abuja and visit Owo immediately.

This is an unexpected development. I am shocked, to say the least. Nevertheless, We shall commit every available resource to hunt down these assailants and make them pay. We shall never bow to the machinations of heartless elements in our resolves to rid our state of criminals.

I commiserate with my people in Owo, particularly families of the those who lost their lives to this ugly and unfortunate attack. I extend my condolences to Olowo of Owo, Oba Gbadegesin Ogunoye as well as the Catholic Church.

I urge our people to remain calm and vigilant. Do not take laws into your hands. I have spoken to the heads of the security agencies. I have equally been assured that security operatives would be deployed to monitor and restore normalcy to Owo kingdom. Akeredolu said.

Signed:

Richard Olatunde

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.

June 5, 2022.

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
Gunmen, locally called bandits, have killed the wife of a village head and wounded several people in Isa local government area of Sokoto State in a Saturday afternoon attack.

Fifty-seven people were abducted from two villages  Gebe and Alkammu. 50 were abducted in Gebe and seven in Alkammu.

PREMIUM TIMES gathered that the wife of the village head of Gebe was killed after the gunmen attacked a wedding.

A source, who asked not to be named over concern for his safety, said it seems the bandits were attracted by the movement of the wedding guests from other towns to Gebe.

There was a wedding ceremony yesterday at the village heads house. Most of those who were abducted were mostly from Sokoto city and Isa who were at the community to celebrate with the monarch, he said.

The source said the wife of the village head was killed for refusing to be abducted.

She was the only person killed as far as we know now. And I was told by the displaced people of the village that she told the bandits that she would not follow them to their hideouts. They however wounded several people in the attack you know because possibly they started shooting when they entered Gebe to scare people away.

Nuhu Shehu, another source, said the village head of Gebe confirmed that 50 people were abducted.

You know since there is no mobile network, itll be hard to get their response quickly. So, we only got to know what was happening when they come to Sokoto or Wurno. We now heard that 50 people mostly from Sokoto and Isa, who attended the ceremony were abducted and his (Village Head) wife killed, he said.

The Alkammu attack

Alkammu community in Wurno local government area was also attacked Friday night and seven people, including a village leader, were abducted.

Yusuf Gidan Dare, a local journalist from the area, told PREMIUM TIMES that the attackers rustled some cattle in the village.

They didnt kill anyone in the attack on Alkammu, Mr Gidan Dare said. But they abducted seven residents including the Dangaladiman Alkammu (a senior traditional title holder) and six others. I learnt that they have not contacted the family for ransom payment yet, he said.

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
President Muhammadu Buhari has condemned the killing of worshippers at the St Francis Catholic Church, Owa-luwa Street, Owo Kingdom, in Ondo State, on Sunday.

The president said in a statement by his special adviser on media and publicity, Femi Adesina, that only fiends from the nether region could have conceived and carried out such dastardly act, adding that eternal sorrow awaits them both on earth here, and ultimately in the hereafter.

Scores of worshippers were killed and wounded after gunmen attacked the church. The casualties have been taken to the Federal Medical Centre in Owo, Ondo State.

President Buhari condoled the families of the victims, the Catholic Church, and the Government of Ondo State, charging emergency agencies to swing into action and bring succour to the wounded.

No matter what, this country shall never give in to evil and wicked people, and darkness will never overcome light. Nigeria will eventually win, he said

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

Media and Publicity

June 5, 2022

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
The police in Ondo have deployed their bomb squad to St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo after gunmen attacked the church killing dozens of worshippers.

Funmilayo Odunlami, the police spokesperson in the state, said in a statement that officers are making efforts to arrest those responsible for the attack.

She urged residents to be calm as the necessary security apparatus had been moved in to ensure the security of lives and property.

All effort is underway to arrest those responsible for this evil, the statement noted.

The police also said a full report would be made available to the public once the needed information had been gathered.

Gunmen shot at worshippers in the church and also used explosives during the incident.

Officials are yet to ascertain the casualty figure but witnesses said at least 70 people were injured in the attack.

President Muhammadu Buhari condemned the attack and added that Nigeria will never give in to evil and wicked people.

Governor Rotimi Akeredolu described the incident as vile and satanic.

I have spoken to the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Ondo, Most Reverend Jude Arogundade, who is presently on his way to Owo. Similarly, I have had to cut short my partys national assignment in Abuja and visit Owo immediately.

This is an unexpected development. I am shocked, to say the least. Nevertheless, We shall commit every available resource to hunt down these assailants and make them pay. We shall never bow to the machinations of heartless elements in our resolves to rid our state of criminals.

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
The FCT Police Command has advised residents of Abuja to find alternative routes to some areas leading to Eagle Square, the venue of the APC national convention.

In a statement by the commands spokesperson, Josephine Adeh, the police said Abuja residents will witness a heavy presence of its personnel more than usual.

The ruling APC is expected to hold its primary election from Monday to Wednesday with at least 5,000 persons expected to grace the event.

Some of the diverted routes, according to the police, include the Goodluck Jonathan expressway, NITEL junction, Bayelsa House, and NNPC Towers, among others.

The police added that deployments will be made at various traffic control points to aid the free flow of traffic, stop and search, and vehicular and foot patrol among many others.

The deployment is also characterised by heavy visibility policing as would be witnessed at the various traffic control points to aid the free flow of traffic, Stop and search, and vehicular and foot patrol among many others, the statement said.

Read the full statement below:

PRESS RELEASE

FCT POLICE REVEAL TRAFFIC DIVERSION POINTS AS PART OF THE EMPLACED SECURITY ARCHITECTURE FOR THE 2022 APC PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARY ELECTION.

The All Progressive Congress ( APC) Presidential primary election is scheduled to hold from Monday 6th June to Tuesday 7th June 2022 at Eagles Square. The event is often associated with a high influx of different calibres of people especially the politicos thereby requiring an argumentation of the working security architecture of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Given the above, to effectively police the territory within the period in view and beyond, an all-encompassing security deployment has been made. Notable amongst the apparatus of this security arrangement is the emplacement of traffic diversions at strategic places around the event ground as follows;

1. Good luck Ebele Jonathan By a court of appeal point

2. Behind Court of Appeal

3. Ecowas by Women Affairs

4. Finance

5. Behind Foreign Affairs

6. Kur Mohammed by National Mosque

7. Benue Plaza

8. Nitel junction

9. Phase 3

10. NNPC Tower

11. Ceddi Plaza bridge

12. Gana by Transcorp

13. DSS Headquarters

14. Phase 1

15. NASS Junction

16. Bullet

17. Bayelsa House.

The deployment is also characterised by heavy visibility policing as would be witnessed at the various traffic control points to aid the free flow of traffic, Stop and search, and vehicular and foot patrol among many others.

The Commissioner of Police CP Babaji Sunday Psc. while registering the commands unflinching commitment to the sustenance of the relative peace and tranquility enjoyed and a boost in the onward march against crime and criminality in the Territory, urged all and sundry to shun all forms of violence in the period in view and beyond.

In addition to the above, members of the public are urged to remain vigilant, strengthen partnership with the Police as touching the rendition of prompt and actionable intelligence, reporting any suspicious or abnormal occurrence to the Police through the following emergency lines: 08032003913, 08061581938, 07057337653, and 08028940883, While the Public Complaint Bureau (PCB) desk, could be reached on: 0902 222 2352,

DSP Josephine Adeh ANIPR,Mipra,

Police Public Relations Officer,

For: The Commissioner of Police

FCT Police Command,

Abuja.

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
I dont think the Nigerian presidency should be reduced to the pedestrian level of the usual Nigerian political roulette of what I call Turn-by-turn Nigeria Limited. The presidency is not the same as a military coup, where one coup leader lines up his co-conspirators to take serial turns at the helm.

It is my turn. Im educated; Im experienced. I have been serving you for a long time, bring me the presidency, it is my turn. When Atiku was being flogged out of the PDP by Obasanjo, he ran to me for help, I got the ticket for him. Nuhu Ribadu came to me and I backed him.

It has been over 25 years now that I have been serving them. This one sitting behind me, Dapo (Ogun State governor), can he say he can be the governor without me? We were together at the MKO Abiola Stadium. He was intimidated, they didnt want to give him the partys flag. I was the one that handed the flag to him. He knows that he cannot be the governor without the help of God and my support.

If not for me standing behind Buhari, he wouldnt have become the president. He tried the first time, he failed; the second time, he failed; the third time, he failed. He even wept on national television and vowed never to contest again but I went to meet him in Kaduna and told him he will run again; I will stand by you and you will win, but you must not joke with Yorubas and he agreed.

Since he became the president, I have never got ministerial slots, I didnt collect any contract, I have never begged for anything from him. It is the turn of Yoruba. It is my turn.

Those excerpts are from Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubus controversial pitch to party delegates in Ogun State in continuation of the ongoing jostling for votes by aspirants of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Onisuuru lo njoba lausa, is a popular Yoruba saying which translates to, Only a humble and patient person can become king among the Hausas.

The Yoruba worldview is informed by keen observation and acquisition of wisdom from every direction of the compass. Power is celebrated only to the extent that it is deployed in the service of the common good. Those seeking power are therefore required to begin their quest with a show of humility, as a foreshadow of the kind of leadership they will provide.

In the old Oyo Empire, the king had power of life and death but there was always the spectre of the ritual calabash hanging in the background as a check to any ruler with despotic tendencies. Any mis-step beyond the traditional red line  and the king was toast.

I think that, before one says anything else on the Tinubu speech which has set cybersphere afire, one must acknowledge the contribution of the former Lagos State governor to democracy. He also deserves commendation for his role in the pro-democracy movement after the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election won by M.K.O Abiola.

Where are the people in all of these schemings? I would have thought the most important statement any candidate could make was that he would meet the pressing needs of the people in specific areas: sanitation, education, health, infrastructure, etc., with bullet points on how he hopes to achieve all those promises. A candidate should be selling a vision, not advertising how long he had been associated with the public till.

As governor of Lagos State, Tinubu did well when compared to many of his contemporaries. But it is stretching the truth to claim, as some of his fanatical supporters do, that he is the inventor of modern Lagos. Youd wonder where all those loudmouths were when Lateef Jakande was reinventing Lagos, establishing a new university, radio and television station, printing complex, waterworks, low cost housing estates, ferry services, expanding educational facilities at primary, secondary and tertiary levels etc  all within only four years!

No, Tinubu is not Jakande but, judging by the standards of his era, he did reasonably well as a two-term governor.

As the leader of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), one of the legacy parties that joined four others to form the APC, Tinubu has earned his stripes as a shrewd political calculator. His well advertised role in supporting the emergence of Buhari as the coalitions presidential candidate is also acknowledged.

But I dont think the Nigerian presidency should be reduced to the pedestrian level of the usual Nigerian political roulette of what I call Turn-by-turn Nigeria Limited. The presidency is not the same as a military coup, where one coup leader lines up his co-conspirators to take serial turns at the helm.

The Abraham Adesanyas, Ayo Adebanjos and other leaders of the Alliance for Democracy (AD) who endorsed Tinubu as the partys candidate in 1999 did so, I believe, because they thought he was the best  not because it was his turn. And they could not, on account of their support, expect Tinubu to be beholden to them forever.

Whereas the rotation of electoral offices between the different parts of a country or any of its constituent parts is normal, rotation between individuals  from a Buhari to a Tinubu, just because the latter had assisted the former  is not. The argument for ascendancy to high office ought to be based on loftier indices.

Where are the people in all of these schemings? I would have thought the most important statement any candidate could make was that he would meet the pressing needs of the people in specific areas: sanitation, education, health, infrastructure, etc., with bullet points on how he hopes to achieve all those promises. A candidate should be selling a vision, not advertising how long he had been associated with the public till.

Tinubus speech also brought the issue of decorum to the front burner. Although much of our moral values have been eroded in this age of anything goes, the least that presidential aspirants can do is not to add to the rot in their comportment and choice of lingo. A presidential aspirant, I insist, has to sound presidential. The moment you descend into the street channel, you lower the bar and demystify yourself.

I have watched the video of Tinubus Ogun State outing over and over again. Some words may be excusable when youre rallying the troops at the back of your campaign headquarters, away from the cameras and listening devices. However, when being officially received, the least you should do is extend maximum respect to your hosts, even if theyre 100 years younger than you.

It beggars belief, for instance, that Tinubu would refer to the Governor Dapo Abiodun as Eleyi (this one)! The APC leaders spin weavers have been trying to justify this craggy style. They are welcome to continue in the way they know best, but this kind of language is not just rude but infra dignitatem. Compare that with Governor Abioduns calm, respectful and dignified response.

No aspirant should be considered too big to benefit from professional grooming and advice on appropriate messaging.

The run-up to the APC presidential primaries has been hectic. President Buharis request that he be allowed to play a major role in the emergence of the partys candidate has thrown the spanners into the works of many erstwhile lords of the manor. However, a presidential hopeful shouldnt lose it in the face of pressure.

It beggars belief, for instance, that Tinubu would refer to the Governor Dapo Abiodun as Eleyi (this one)! The APC leaders spin weavers have been trying to justify this craggy style. They are welcome to continue in the way they know best, but this kind of language is not just rude but infra dignitatem. Compare that with Governor Abioduns calm, respectful and dignified response.

The kind of politics we practice in Nigeria is largely based on godfatherism. The parties are like the Cosa Nostra. The godfathers demand total loyalty and obedience. It is a crime for a mafiosi to aspire beyond his current station, unless otherwise catapulted by the Boss. Thus, governors have a vice grip on the states and determine who gets what. In some of the parties, too, the inner caucus subscribes to an equivalent of the code of Omerta.

If governors could influence the outcome of primaries at the state level  or, at least have a major input in deciding who flies the partys flag, isnt it expecting too much to think that Buhari will stand akimbo while the issue of succession is dollarised and elective positions auctioned to the highest bidder? Tinubu himself has, to put it mildly, played a major role in the emergence of his successors since 2007.

However, nobody is God. Indeed God does not brook competition. Ask Lucifer if in doubt. The fact that one person helped another politically does not make the helper God. Nor does it make any sense demonising the former subordinate as a Judas for seeking the same office as the supposed overlord. We all pray that our children attain greater heights than us. To vocalise the ugly thought that a position as crucial as the presidency of Nigeria ought to be reserved for any particular person is to summersault back to the 16th century when the theory of the Divine Rights of Kings was propounded.

Did Mahatma (Mohandas Karamchand) Gandhi ever rule India? Should a nations destiny be reduced to the personal ambition of one man?

Whichever way the pendulum swings at the APC convention, I cant wait to see who APC will be fielding to slug it out with Atiku Abubakar of the PDP and Peter Obi of the Labour Party.

So, whose turn is it? It is the turn of the candidate that can lift Nigeria up from the current mess.

Wole Olaoye is a public relations consultant and veteran journalist. He can be reached on wole.olaoye@gmail.com. Twitter: @wole_olaoye; Instagram: woleola2021.

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
It is not too difficult to hazard a stipulation as to who will not be Nigerias president in 2023. The person specification for the job says trainees are not welcome. Already, the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has nominated former vice president, Atiku Abubakar, as its flag-bearer. He has been in active pursuit of the office for three decades.

On May 29, 1999, Olusegun Obasanjo, for the second time in two decades, took the oath to assume office as Nigerias head of state, this time with an electoral mandate. His predecessor was Abdulsalami Abubakar, another four-star General who had mid-wifed an 11-month long transition following the death of General Sani Abacha on June 8, 1998.

It was the second time in as many decades that that Abdulsalami and Obasanjo would be principal actors in the final hours of a generational transition. On October 1, 1979, Obasanjo, a four-star army General, stood down as head of state, handing over to an elected civilian successor, Shehu Aliyu Shagari. On the same day he also retired from the military. On that day in 1979, Abdulsalami Abubakar, then a lieutenant colonel, was also there, as the commander of the inauguration parade. In 1979, Abdulsalami pulled Obasanjo out of service. In 1999, he pulled him back into service.

23 years after that repeat relay between Obasanjo and Abdulsalami (Generals both) returned Nigeria to elective government, the country is again looking for a chief executive, and party primaries designed to winnow the search are about to come to an end. So much has changed in the past quarter century in Nigerias politics, yet so much remains the same.

As the party primary season winds to a conclusion, the country has seen a growth industry in the vocation of fortune tellers seeking to outdo one another in predicting the destination of the presidential chalice when the elections come to take place in February 2023. Despite the best efforts of the fortune-telling industry, however, Nigerias rules of presidential succession are actually quite constant. They have not changed much since they were first deployed.

Azubike Ishiekwene summarised the highlights of these rules in a much-underrated column on April 28. The first  you can always take this to the bank  is that Nigerias presidency has never gone to the highest bidder for, as Azu points out, there is something in the DNA of the power brokers that resents big political spenders. In Nigeria, separation of powers means that in order to guarantee the spoils of power, big money and political power at the highest levels are never concentrated in the same person. When Moshood Abiola threatened this rule 30 years ago, Ibrahim Babangida nullified his election.

There is another rule just as constant as the first and no less important. It is that in Nigeria, the presidency is not for trainees. Since after the first post-colonial leaders, the job of leading Nigeria has always gone to someone who knew his (they have all been men) way around the halls of power. Intimate propinquity to power in Nigeria has always been an essential requirement for attaining it.

This cyclic, even circular, passing of the baton has characterised presidential transitions in post-colonial Nigeria since its earliest days. Aguiyi-Ironsi, the first post-colonial ruler of Nigeria to unify the jobs of head of state and head of government was the general officer commanding (GOC) the Nigerian Army, as the head of the army was then known. After he was killed around July 29, 1966, his position went to Yakubu Gowon, until then Aguiyi-Ironsis second-in-command as the chief-of-staff, Supreme Headquarters.

The rule of succession by propinquity to power has held good for both military and civilian rule in Nigeria. Shehu Shagari, who took over from Obasanjo as elected civilian ruler in 1979, had served in every government (except Aguiyi-Ironsis) until then. When Obafemi Awolowo resigned as the Finance minister and as the effective vice-chair of the cabinet in 1971, Shagari replaced him in both roles.

The Principal of Barewa College (the High School in Zaria, Kaduna State famous for producing Nigerias rulers) who had the duty, at the end of July 1975, of announcing to his students that one of their illustrious old boys had been ousted as head of state, would blunt the solemnity of his message with the assurance that the successor was, like the ousted ruler, also a former Barewa head boy. Murtala Mohammed, whom Gowon had himself appointed as his minister for Communications in 1974, was not just any old boy of Barewa College. Like Gowon, who preceded him to the school, Murtala was also a Barewa head boy. Before becoming head of state, he had also served as a member of Gowons Supreme Ruling Council and aide-de-camp to Moses Majekoudunmi, the presidency physician and minister whom Prime Minister Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, later appointed administrator of the Western Region during the emergency.

Following the assassination of Murtala Mohammed on the eve of Saint Valentines Day, 1976, Olusegun Obasanjo, his second-in-command, moved up to become head of state.

The rule of succession by propinquity to power has held good for both military and civilian rule in Nigeria. Shehu Shagari, who took over from Obasanjo as elected civilian ruler in 1979, had served in every government (except Aguiyi-Ironsis) until then. When Obafemi Awolowo resigned as the Finance minister and as the effective vice-chair of the cabinet in 1971, Shagari replaced him in both roles. It meant that Obasanjo, whose destiny it was to manage that transition, knew Shagari well, having joined Gowons cabinet in 1974 as minister for Public Works and worked with him as a colleague in the cabinet after Awolowo left. Those who worked hard to install Shagari in 1979 as elected civilian president were confident, not merely of his networks around power, but also of his history of proximity to it.

Muhammadu Buhari, whom the military power-brokers settled on to take over when they toppled Shagari on the last day of 1983, was no stranger to Nigerias power palaces. One of the leaders of the 1975 coup that usurped Yakubu Gowon, Buhari ran General Shehu Musa YarAdua close in February 1976 for the role of military second-in-command to Olusegun Obasanjo. Before becoming military head of state, he was military governor, member of the Supreme Military Council, Petroleum minister, and a general officer commanding (GOC) in the Nigerian Army.

Buharis nemesis in August 1985 was his chief of Army staff and contemporary, Ibrahim Babangida, who, like Buhari, and as told by his biographer, Dan Agbese, had logged a long record of active service in government and in military coups.

Ernest Sonekan, whom Ibrahim Babangida appointed to succeed him in leading the Interim National Government (ING), was no stranger to power himself. Unknown to most people, Sonekan had, from the beginning of the Babangida regime in August 1985, also moonlighted as chair of an informal, nine-person Advisory Council to the Babangida regime. He knew the neighbourhood of power well and all who navigated within it.

Sani Abacha, who retired Sonekan and his ING, had also announced the installation, as well as the retirement of the two regimes before Sonekan. He was not just an active dealer in the enterprise of propinquity to power in Nigeria; he owned it. At his death in June 1998, Abacha had been at the centre of the rise and fall of every regime in the country for one decade and a half.

It may be up to the people of Nigeria to decide whom they wish to hire as their leader in 2023 but one thing is assured: the rule of intimate propinquity to power as a determinant of presidential succession will hold strong.

Abdulsalami Abubakar, Abachas successor, was the officer in the senior-most professional role and a senior member in the ruling military council from the Babangida years.

Obasanjos installation as elected ruler in 1999 crystallised a long history of dressing up a martial game of musical chairs in civilian lipstick, from which both the soldiers and civilians involved (for themselves and for the benefit of their descendants) have always made good.

Umaru Musa YarAdua, who succeeded Obasanjo, was the younger brother of Obasanjos military second-in-command and the son of the first minister of Lagos Affairs in post-Independence Nigeria. When he died in May, 2010, his vice-resident, Goodluck Jonathan, took over the mantle.

When he was elected in 2015 as Nigerias president, General Muhammadu Buhari, was the longest active politician alive in Nigeria. He had been active in military coups and government for an unbroken half century.

It is not too difficult to hazard a stipulation as to who will not be Nigerias president in 2023. The person specification for the job says trainees are not welcome. Already, the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has nominated former vice president, Atiku Abubakar, as its flag-bearer. He has been in active pursuit of the office for three decades. President Buhari has informed the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) that he will be designating his own successor, making it all but certain that the convention for the APC presidential primary will be a ratification, not an elective one.

It may be up to the people of Nigeria to decide whom they wish to hire as their leader in 2023 but one thing is assured: the rule of intimate propinquity to power as a determinant of presidential succession will hold strong.

Chidi Anselm Odinkalu, a lawyer and teacher, can be reached at chidi.odinkalu@tufts.edu.

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
it may seem logical and expedient that the APC presidential ticket go to the South-West in order for the party to put its best foot forward. For one, it is principally the alliance between South-West and North that birthed the Buhari presidency in 2015. The South-West is also the place where the APC is strongest in the South, where it has five of the six governors in the zone. It also has a strong and passionate voting population.

It is crunch time for presidential politics in Nigeria. A while ago, the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) elected its presidential candidate in the person of Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, a former vice president and businessman.

The contest for the PDPs presidential ticket had somehow been made out to be a fight between the South and the North, with Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State representing the South and Abubakar, the septuagenarian from Adamawa State, filling in for the North.

The dominant argument was whether the PDP should zone its presidential ticket to the South, since the current president is a Northerner who, at the end of his tenure, would have spent eight years in office. People who hold this view say that fairness and equity demand that power should move down South after President Muhammadu Buharis tenure.

On the other end were the pragmatists who insisted that the PDP should not concern itself with the matter of zoning; being a party in opposition, they argued, it could not afford the luxury of such an arrangement. Winning, they said, should be its primary consideration. The pragmatists also touted the demographic advantage that the North has over the South to buttress their position.

At the end of a tough contest in Abuja, the pragmatists won. Abubakar emerged as the partys presidential candidate. He has since commenced the task of pacifying the Southern PDP leaders; no doubt, offering them mouth-watering deals and concessions.

These subterranean and somewhat divisive arguments have also surfaced in the All Progressives Congress (APC), the ruling party at the centre. As the party readies for its National Convention where it will pick its presidential candidate, there have been different and somewhat competing views about which geopolitical zone it should pick its presidential candidate from. Given that the APC is the party in power and with a Northern incumbent, there is little argument that the party should field a candidate from the South. The noisome arguments, more like a storm in a teacup now, are over which of the Souths geopolitical zones should produce the partys candidate.

One of these arguments is that the South-West has had its fair share of presidential leadership and so should desist from the present contest. The argument is that the South-West had eight years with Chief Olusegun Obasanjo of the PDP as president between 1999 and 2003 and, with Professor Yemi Osinbajo as vice president since 2015, by next year the zone would have had a total of sixteen years in the presidency. And so, the argument goes, it should let go, either for the South-South to do one term and complete the second term of former President Goodluck Jonathan, or support the South-East, the zone in the South that has not produced a president since the Fourth Republic began in 1999.

In addition to zoning, there are many other complex factors that must come into play when considering a candidate for the party. Chief of these is the persons capacity to deliver victory to the party. Among others, the party must consider the following: Is the person popular? Can he or she connect with the ordinary people and win in the general election? What are his or her plans and vision for the country?

There are obvious holes in this argument. For a start, the South-West has not had 16 years of presidential power. It has done only eight years during the Obasanjo administration. Mischief seems to be at play with the notion that the zone has been in power for 16 years. It is a deliberate exaggeration in order to create the basis for its exclusion from the current race. But that is actually pedestrian since every Nigerian with basic knowledge knows that the vice presidency is not the same thing as the presidency. The difference is between night and day. Yet, another point to note is that the APC as it is, is only about eight years old, and it is a different party from the PDP. As such, the election of a PDP president under that partys guidelines should not apply to the APC. In effect, the Obasanjo presidency does not relate to the APC, especially since there is no national zoning template for political parties.

Then, again, the zoning arrangement has always been between the two broad regions of the North and South. After satisfying the requirement of equity and balance that broad zoning provides, it is unnecessary to further micro manage the process up to a specific political zone within the region or, even more ludicrously, the village to get it.

The precedent is very clear. The North-West, where the incumbent president comes from, has held presidential power at various times, and this has been categorised as the North being in power and not just the North-West. President Shehu Shagari, between 1979 and 1983; President Umaru Musa YarAdua between 2007 and 2010; and now President Buhari since 2015, all come from the same North-West zone, without this causing ruckus within the broad Northern region. In the case of Buhari and YarAdua, they both hail from the same state of Katsina. This has not vitiated the fact that their leadership has been broadly categorised as Northern presidencies and there are no agitations, from the North-East for instance, over this. In fact, micro zoning seems to be a divisive Southern pastime.

In addition to zoning, there are many other complex factors that must come into play when considering a candidate for the party. Chief of these is the persons capacity to deliver victory to the party. Among others, the party must consider the following: Is the person popular? Can he or she connect with the ordinary people and win in the general election? What are his or her plans and vision for the country?

In 2015, Buharis emergence as the APC presidential candidate satisfied the two major critical factors: Zoning to the North and having the political weight to win. It would have been suicidal of the APC had the party picked a candidate of a lesser stature only because it wanted to satisfy a strict micro zoning template. Thankfully, it did not contemplate this, as the party fulfilled its broad zoning agenda and yet won. That same template should apply now.

Let us even interrogate the claims that the South-South has not fully expressed presidential power because President Jonathan (who was of the PDP) lost his second term bid. This idea is completely absurd and does not really deserve any reasonable persons time and contemplation. Is the presidency now so frivolous, so cheap, as to be tossed about like a yoyo? What kind of party would the APC be regarded as if it zones the presidency to the South-South in order to compensate the area for Jonathans deserved loss in 2015? Sounds silly to you? Me too.

If in a possible voting consideration, a South-West candidate is not considered, the APC risks a total rejection of the party in the region. In an election year where the contest will be stiff, the party cannot afford to lose a committed geopolitical zone, the one with most voters in the South.

I, in fact, have more sympathy for the South-East, being the only zone in the South that has not produced a president since the return of democratic rule in 1999. But that is not unique to the South-East from a national standpoint. In the North, the North-Central and the North-East have also not produced a president since 1999. This is understandable as the parties have had to adopt a pragmatic approach to the presidential elections, fielding candidates that have some form of demographic advantage. The South-East and South-South are the least in terms of political investments in the APC.

In addition to the South-East having the lowest voting population, it is the place where the APC is weakest. The anecdotal view is that the party is hated in the region. And even though there are two APC governors from there, they have not really tested their popularity at the polls. Governor David Umahi only defected from the PDP to the APC about one year ago, while Governor Hope Uzodinmas victory was through the instrument of the court. The same applies to the South-South, where the only APC governor, Ben Ayade of Cross River State, only defected to the party and has not won an election on the partys ticket.

The weakness of the APC in these zones therefore raises serious concern. After all, political parties are in the business of winning elections, and it is doubtful that the party can win with a South-East or South-South candidate based on the reasons articulated above.

Therefore, it may seem logical and expedient that the APC presidential ticket go to the South-West in order for the party to put its best foot forward. For one, it is principally the alliance between South-West and North that birthed the Buhari presidency in 2015. The South-West is also the place where the APC is strongest in the South, where it has five of the six governors in the zone. It also has a strong and passionate voting population.

As such, from an analysts point of view, I dont see the APC ignoring the region for its presidential ticket. And that is not because it is payback time for its substantial support in 2015, but because pragmatism and projection actually favour an APC victory with a South-West candidate leading the ticket. The APC cannot afford to disregard the South-West.

If in a possible voting consideration, a South-West candidate is not considered, the APC risks a total rejection of the party in the region. In an election year where the contest will be stiff, the party cannot afford to lose a committed geopolitical zone, the one with most voters in the South.

Julius Ogunro is a Nigerian journalist.

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
Dhaka, June 5 (UNI) At least 14 people were killed and more than 150 injured after an oil tank exploded at a container depot in Bangladesh's Chittagong, local authorities said.

The mishap occurred in Chattogram's Sitakunda area on Saturday night.

According to the authorities, depot workers, firefighters, police personnel are among the dead.

The casualties may rise as some injured are in critical condition. The cause of the fire was not immediately known.

UNI MAZ GK
Today, the story is different. Believers are doing virtually what unbelievers are doing on their jobs. Unbelievers lie, cheat, steal and sleep with their bosses for favour. A lot of staunch members of many of our churches are doing the same things. It is a generation of unfaithful Christians. The Bible has so much to say about how we do our work. But many Christians  particularly those in Africa  dont know the values and dignity of work.

Who can find a faithful man? (Proverbs 20:6)

Faithfulness On Your Job

By our jobs, I mean every kind of job, be it professional or career jobs; ministry, business, or any kind of job. I posted something on my Facebook page recently. I said that in the 1980s, employers competed to employ Christians in their companies. Why? Christians wont cheat, lie, steal, or trade their values for anything mundane. In fact, it became a thing of persecution for many Christians, as people hated them for being too honest  calling many of them SUs. Today, the story is different. Believers are doing virtually what unbelievers are doing on their jobs. Unbelievers lie, cheat, steal and sleep with their bosses for favour. A lot of staunch members of many of our churches are doing the same things. It is a generation of unfaithful Christians. The Bible has so much to say about how we do our work. But many Christians  particularly those in Africa  dont know the values and dignity of work. Unfaithfulness has eaten very deep into the fabric of our culture  and in virtually every aspect of our society, we are battling with unfaithful Christian workers.

Let me tell you some of the practical examples of unfaithfulness among Christians in their places of work:

1. A lot of pastors and church leaders lie about testimonies, church size, miracles, and prophecies just to make money. Some take sexual advantage of single women to help them;

2. A lot of pastors have joined different occultic groups. Some are doing rituals and burying things under their churches  all because of attracting crowds and making money and having fame;

3. There is massive bribery going on among Christian businessmen who are applying for public or private sector contracts;

4. There are massive lies and deceit among Christian businessmen and women in selling and marketing many of their products and services;

5. A lot of Christian artisans  mechanics, plumbers, painters, electricians, drivers, house-helps and co. steal from their employers;

6. A lot of Christian lecturers trade sex for grades with students. Some sell handouts to students at exorbitant rates;

7. A lot of Christian doctors and nurses steal from their hospitals to fund their personal hospitals. Some divert funds and medical materials from their places of work to their personal businesses.

It is impossible for God to bless an unfaithful man. The Bible says, in Proverbs 28:20, A faithful man shall abound with blessings: But he that maketh haste to be rich shall not be innocent.

Ayo Akerele, a leadership and system development strategist, and minister of the word, writes from Canada and can be reached through ayoakerele2012@gmail.com.

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
The Nigerian economy is a tough one but people are still making it big therein everyday. The governments policies are not perfect but businesses are still thriving. What I have observed is that those making it in Nigeria are human, born of women; they did not drop from heaven. I discovered three basic decisions that these people made.

Napoleon Hill believed that you can achieve whatever you believe you can. The first time I read that, I thought he must have been kidding. I even thought that it could be possible in the United States of America but not in Nigeria. To prove my point, I did a four-year research and found out with shock that anyone can actually achieve whatever they want to achieve, if they really want to. Meaning, your success or failure is your own making. Obstacles can be knocked off, challenges can be yanked off, until you emerge a success.

The Nigerian economy is a tough one but people are still making it big therein everyday. The governments policies are not perfect but businesses are still thriving. What I have observed is that those making it in Nigeria are human, born of women; they did not drop from heaven. I discovered three basic decisions that these people made.

First, they decided what businesses they wanted to succeed in, they found out what it would take to succeed in them and then they set out on all it took to succeed. The third decision is what separates the success stories from the others that have failed.

The reasons they succeeded can also be attributed to: Patience, perseverance and tenacity. These qualities stemmed from a resolution to make it through all legitimate means. If others can make it here in Nigeria, so can you. I have heard stories of people who started their business with millions of naira and crashed out of these business within months. I have also heard and witnessed stories of entrepreneurs who started with nothing aside their knowledge and tenacity and they not only succeeded, but they grew very fast.

There is this particular story of a dejected medical doctor who gave up on life when he could not get a job. His pastor challenged them in church to start something and he resolved to be successful. He started a mobile clinic and within three years grew a big and fast growing hospital. He now has over twenty staff working for him, including five medical doctors.

Quitters dont have stories to tell because they gave up on life. Winners dont quit, which is why they are called achievers. Your story wont be heard until you stay on track and do all you can to succeed. You have to make a firm resolution that whatever happens you will not give up. Tell me of the entrepreneur who did not have a problem at the start up stage, and I will showed you a failed business. There must be challenges and only winners persist.

Read stories, study biographies. Strive to start that business, in which your vision will take you as far as possible. Tough times, they say, never last, only tough people do. Tough times are like the night, they last only for a period and then give way to dawn in a matter of time. As the clock ticks, your success story is just around the corner. If you must start, and please resolve not to stop until you succeed. To me, determination is the decision to succeed and never quit.

Dont allow anything stop you. As long as there is life, my friend, there is hope. You must not give up until you win. Remember those that are making it did not drop from heaven; they are born of a woman just like you. You must stay on course to become a success story tomorrow. You will succeed!

Yemi Adetayo, a success strategist and leadership expert, is also a corporate trainer, counseling/consulting psychologist and minister of the word. He can be reached at: counseloryemi@gmail.com.

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
History, to many people, is past and has little or no bearing on what obtains in the world today, especially when one pays attention to how rapid technology and innovation have long projected the world. The truth, however, is that for any reasonable development to occur in a country or continent, reference has to be made to its history and, beyond this, it has to be understood how the history of a continent or a country influences its current level and pace of development.

As Africans, when we take stock of our state of affairs, there is always something to admire and despise. For one, as a people, we are proud of the richness of our culture and how many resources for development lie untapped at our disposal. At the same time, we abhor how, despite this richness in culture and resources, we are still a long way from experiencing real development, let alone being categorised as a developed continent of the 21st century. While all of these spring in us moments of ecstasy and sorrow, one thing that converges both feelings is our history and how much our encounters with foreign powers have influenced the way we row the boat of our development.

Depending on the context, when the history of Africa is being discussed, the relics of the colonial masters often take a chunk of the narration. Among African scholars and historians, the coloniality of African history appears to be most disturbing. It is not new for an average narration of African history to follow a pre-structured pattern; the pattern where everything in Africa begins to take good shape from the point of encounter with colonial masters, as a result of which development and civilisation were introduced into the black mans land. Although this position has become highly contentious, the concern today is not about the unsettling nature of where African history begins or is being told from, but about retelling and reengineering the history of Africa. Specifically, the concern here is decolonising what we have all come to know as African history and decolonising the African epistemology system.

History, to many people, is past and has little or no bearing on what obtains in the world today, especially when one pays attention to how rapid technology and innovation have long projected the world. The truth, however, is that for any reasonable development to occur in a country or continent, reference has to be made to its history and, beyond this, it has to be understood how the history of a continent or a country influences its current level and pace of development. For Africa, seeing how much we have developed over the years and the pace at which we are moving towards genuine development, it becomes necessary to not just refer to our past as a people but also understand how what we might have encountered in the past is influencing the way we conceive our present idea about development.

Understanding this means coming to terms with the fact that though our pasts might seem unappealing, they still live with us today. They are like the corpse we thought we buried but whose ghosts continue to haunt us daily. Hence, to overcome this and move past our level of development, we have to examine the living past and purge it of its effect on our present.

If we consider it, the rationale for the decolonisation of African history lies in the necessity for self-reliance and a deep desire to look within and seek a different approach toward development in the continent. There is no doubt that Africa has solutions to its problems. The difficulty, however, lies in the unwillingness to leverage local approaches and theories in understanding and solving our problems and redefining the distorted image of Africa

When considering issues such as these, it is important to first foreground the context to which it applies in order to properly comprehend the discussion. In this light, I will engage African history from the point of its encounter with the colonial master through to the point at which each country in Africa gained independence. Africas experience under colonialisation triggered many changes in our historical lifestyle, paramount of which is the superimposition of Western culture, tagged civilisation, on our people. Beyond this, there was also the systematic colonisation of our systems of government, structures, institutions, and, most sadly, knowledge acquisition. All these were achieved through deliberate efforts targeted to undermine African culture and practice, create a sense of inferiority in the way we conceive our culture and, of course, elevate Western culture with a different lifestyle and impose it on Africans. The truth is that the colonialists succeeded in doing this, and while we may think that the colonial masters have exited, the structural and systemic arrangements they put in place still lives with us. This is what has constituted the living past that has continued to debilitate our progress as a continent.

In some quarters, when the discussion of decolonisation is brought up, it is quickly waved aside as an attempt to narrowly revisit the colonial invasion and administration in Africa. Many often equate it to an over-flogged struggle to continue to blame foreign powers for the woes we are currently facing as a continent. However, this is far from the point. The essence of decolonisation is to lift the veil of colonial ideologies and Eurocentric perspectives and domination in Africa, while at the same time bringing forth the true spirit of Africa and Africanism to reconstruct Africas history and present. Hence, engaging the past to evaluate its relics that are still living with us today is to set in motion the purging of our history and the mitigation and eradication of the influence of Eurocentric perspectives on our way of life and development in Africa. The expansion of this European ideology altered the continents knowledge system, recreated knowledge acquisition and re-enacted colonial and Eurocentric dominance in research and educational resources.

If we consider it, the rationale for the decolonisation of African history lies in the necessity for self-reliance and a deep desire to look within and seek a different approach toward development in the continent. There is no doubt that Africa has solutions to its problems. The difficulty, however, lies in the unwillingness to leverage local approaches and theories in understanding and solving our problems and redefining the distorted image of Africa told over the years from biased Eurocentric perspectives.

Undoubtedly, the past still lives with us as a people, and the first step to purging it is to pinpoint areas in which they exist. How many African agencies, structures, and written accounts might be claimed to be entirely Afrocentric, free of infusions of imperial chauvinism which have suffused the society throughout its historical past? Is it possible for a nation to develop beyond the scope of its knowledge, research and education, knowledge? Undoubtedly, the current degree of advancement in Africa is primarily concerned with the applicability of a given entitys knowledge system. This implies that somehow the prospects of African development will always be constrained by European conceptions of development, thereby slowing Africas growth. However, the liberation of African history empowers the continent to reconstruct its unique knowledge base and system of education, which are peculiar to the continents development.

If African reality does not evolve, the Africanisation of African history will be impossible. Hence, political structures must be free of nonlinearities that draw attention away from pragmatic initiatives, the African economic system must be galvanised towards autonomy and stability, education must be widely disseminated so that more people understand these ideas, and society must be put in a situation to speak with an unbiased perspective for historys sake.

The essential goal of the emancipation of African history has remained constant, and that has been to redeem effective learning and knowledge creation in Africa by looking inward at African knowledge creation processes. The Africanisation of history embraces all of Africas distinctive characteristics, quirks, and traditional exceptionalism to free the continent from imperial and Euro-American narratives. Academic philosophies must be reconditioned away from excessive dependence on the Western perspective and processes of viewpoint that place Africans in the rear and therefore only perceive the continents challenges through the prism of Western cultural notions. Decolonising academic and educational structures and institutions would be a key step toward recirculating an authentic and Africanised knowledge of African history.

One point we can make is that the Africanisation of African history can be accomplished now or afterward, but for this to be realised, we must recognise that we need to put efforts above words because it is only through conscious efforts that we can leverage strategic approaches towards our decolonisation efforts. Only an African civilisation that supports and produces institutions that strategise ways to impact the continents knowledge cultures can achieve decolonisation of these endeavours. Besides, it elucidates African answers and provides access to them to solve African challenges, as well as serves as a knowledge and resource bank for African leaders to use in formulating policies and choices. The actual way to grasp the true essence of African people using African lenses and applying suitable approaches and interactions is to decolonise African history.

If African reality does not evolve, the Africanisation of African history will be impossible. Hence, political structures must be free of nonlinearities that draw attention away from pragmatic initiatives, the African economic system must be galvanised towards autonomy and stability, education must be widely disseminated so that more people understand these ideas, and society must be put in a situation to speak with an unbiased perspective for historys sake. Because history defines people, decolonising African history will provide for a clear re-emergence of African identity, allowing us to successfully situate ourselves in the world arena.

Toyin Falola, a professor of History, University Distinguished Teaching Professor, and Jacob and Frances Sanger Mossiker Chair in the Humanities at The University of Texas at Austin, is the Bobapitan of Ibadanland.

This is the text of the Carl Schlettwein Lecture delivered at the the Centre for African Studies, University of Basel, Switzerland on June 4.

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
Barring all odds, the All Progressives Congress (APC) national convention will be underway in 48 hours, leaving decision-makers fine-tuning their verdicts on the plausible candidate that would guarantee the electoral victory of the ruling party in the forthcoming General Elections in February 2023.

For pundits, party stalwarts, aspirants, and the general populace, certain factors would hold in contention which can make or mar the partys chances at the General Elections.

In this article, I shall attempt to analyse two critical factors that may swing last-minute decisions using the recently released Independent Electoral Commissions data on voter demographics vis-a-vis aspirants and how they connect to the highest voting demographic in age.

I shall also clinically x-ray the strongest political decision making demography at the party levels- which are the Governors, drawing a neck to neck comparison on the Governors currently in the race, using their agreement in throwing their weight behind one of theirs which, to many analysts, would guarantee their self-preservation and also align with President Muhammadu Buharis directive which harps on a sellable candidate who is a core party man.

INEC data

The Nigerian election and the world over is characterised by various sentiments that determine voting outcomes; ethnic nationality, religious affiliation, gender equality, geopolitical zoning, age demography, among other factors.

In Nigeria, many analysts have decried the spate of youth participation in politics, the rendezvous of this thinking reached a crescendo after the demise of the late President, Umar Yaradua who died in office due to an illness, which was believed to have been triggered and amplified by the high demands and rigours of the office.

The current President, Muhammadu Buhari, has also openly complained of his age as a reproach to his performance, promising to bequeath the future of Nigerian youths to the youths. Fearing for a deja vu of a Yaradau situation, there is a growing sentiment across the board for a younger President who can withstand the pressures of an ailing Nigeria with its litany of multiple challenges.

The truth is that in 2023, Nigeria needs a youthful President who can confront the rigours associated with the exalted office without caving in. That exactly is the premise of the age-demographic sentiment in this analysis which has since assumed a life of its own among the Nigerian youth who have the highest controlling voting strength among the current voting demographics.

The recently released INEC data shows a new entrant of 18 million-plus people into the voting demography, with youths between the age of 18-49 making 88% of the entire demography. The data shows youths between 18-34 sitting on 11.5m, middle-aged from 35-49, 4.8m, elderly from 50-69, 2.1m and grandparents from 70 above raking 298,905 persons.

In comparison to voter-candidate psychological proximity, I shall attempt to analyse the closest by age of all the 13 cleared aspirants released by the Screening Committee of the All Progressives Congress, looking at the major contenders according to political pundits.

By high chances of emergence, Bola Ahmed Tinubu (South West), 70 years, attracts a voter demographic of 298,905 persons of his age bracket and above which is about 1.5% of the voter demography according to INEC.

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo (South West), 66, attracts a voter demographic of 2, 195, 122 persons, making 11.5% of the new voters.

His Excellency, Mohammed Badaru (North West), 59 years, falls into the same age demographic as the Vice President, which makes up 11.5%.

His Excellency, Governor David Umahi (South East), 58 years, falls into the same age demographic with the Vice President, the 11.5%% voter demographic.

Mr. Rotimi Amaechi, (South South), 57 years, falls into the age demographic of the Vice President, amounting to 11.5% of the voter population.

Governor Kayode Fayemi (South West), 57 years, falls in the same demographic of 11.5% voter population.

Senate President, Ahmed Lawan (North East), 63 years, falls into the demography of the Vice President, almost his contemporary. He also stands with 11.5% of the voter demographic.

Mr. Jack Rich, 47, (South South) falls within the voter demographic of 4,876,666 persons which makes about 87% of the voting demography.

Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello (North Central), 46, falls into the same voting demographic of Jack-Rich Tien which accounts for 87% of the voting population. However, the Nigerian Constitution does not permit youths within the age category of 18-35 to run as President, hence, I shall collapse this age demography to run with the closet age demography, which gives a summation of 16.418, 484 making 87% of the entire voting population with the duo of Governor Bello and Mr Jack-Rich Tien featuring in that category as the closest by psychology of age demography to the voters.

The interpretation of the foregoing is that Gov Yahaya Bello, 46, North Central Nigeria, offers a closer psychological proximity to the voters in age demographic if the sentiment of age group is listed as the highest sentiment for balloting. Mr. Jack-Rich Tien follows steadily at 47, enjoying the same outcome if both are featured on the ticket of the APC.

To further analyse the chances of either Yahaya Bello or Jack-Rich on the ballot of APC gives credence to the opportunity which puts the ruling party in an advantageous position of featuring the Post-Civil War generation on the ballot.

The Peoples Democratic Party has made a fatal error by conceding her ticket to a 76-year-old Atiku Abubakar who has a psychological proximity of 1.5% of the voting demographic. If Tinubu also clinches the ticket at 70, the APC would have made the same costly error like the PDP. For the avoidance of doubt, the measurable indices of bloc votes from the youths make up 87% of the voting demographic which APC stands a chance of losing out on.

Curiously, Peter Obi of the Labour Party seems to be latching onto the opportunity of the 87% presented via his style of campaign, method of youth engagement and inclusion of youth influencers from movements like the #EndSars, National Youth Council, etc. It is easy to sync with these groups when the candidates are relatively younger, technologically savvy and GenZ-compliant.

Based on the facts presented, it is highly recommended that the APC puts her house in order, and settles the rubrics to feature either Gov Bello or Mr Jack-Rich on the ballot to benefit from the dominant voting demographic by age bracket. To do otherwise may impose a heavy burden on the APC, going forward, which may ultimately cause it to lose the election.

While the duo of Governor Bello and Jack-Rich share the same affinity with the highest voting bloc- the youth demographic  in the country according to the data by INEC, it is important to note that Governor Bello is no newcomer as he has had an executive mandate as governor of a state for close to 8 years, having to win keenly contested elections on the two occasions he was on the ballot.

Besides, Governor Bello has been running an all-inclusive government with the youths and women folk forming the cornerstone of his administration. If one factor in his massive investments in security, among other positives, which has made Kogi one of the safest in the country and has also won the Gov accolades from nor-partisan organisations and institutions, then there is no point looking farther than giving him the ticket to be on the ballot as the flag bearer of the APC in the 2023 Election.

In totalising this article, the destiny of the APC and by extension, Nigeria, is in the hands of the 2,322 delegates across the 774 LGAs, especially the 774 women amongst them who will be participating in the primaries. Taking into cognizance, the more than affirmative action Gov Bello has given to women in his administration, which is replicated across the LGAs in Kogi State, coupled with his affinity to the youth demographic by age and orientation, its now up to you and the young delegates among the voters to consider someone who will do much more than he has done as Kogi helmsman if elected NUJ as the President of the Republic. But before then, you have to elect him as the flag bearer of the APC.

A New Nigeria is Possible; lets make it happen Now!

 Mazi Chinedu Robert is the Secretary-General of Civil Movement Frontiers, Enugu Province

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) will hold its presidential primary between June 6 and 8 at the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

The partys delegates, leaders as well as observers will converge on Eagle Square to elect their flagbearer. The winner will challenge candidates of some other parties such as Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Peter Obi of the Labour Party.

A total of 18 parties are eligible to present candidates for the presidential poll that will be held early next year

The APC presidential screening committee had screened 23 aspirants and advised 10 of them to withdraw, though they would be allowed to contest if they insist.

The chairman of the screening committee, John Odigie-Oyegun, while submitting its report to the National Chairman of the party, Abdullahi Adamu, on Friday, said 13 others have been shortlisted for the shadow election.

Mr Oyegun said 22 aspirants out of the 23 screened said they would accept a consensus arrangement, but one aspirant rejected it.

South West

The South-west, which consists of Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo and Ekiti states, has seven aspirants in the primary. But three of these, Ajayi Borrrofice, Dimeji Bankole and Tunde Bakare, are among the 10 lightweights advised to withdraw because they have no visible path to being elected as president.

The other aspirants from the region are former Lagos State Governor, Bola Tinubu; former Ogun Governor, Ibikunle Amosun; Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State.

Without statutory delegates participating in the primary, the southwest will have 411 delegates viz: Lagos has 60; Oyo, 99; Osun, 90; Ogun, 60; Ondo, 54 and Ekiti, 48.

Lagos

For Lagos State, Mr Tinubu is believed to control the delegates even though Mr Bakare, an Ogun State indigene, also lives in the state. Mr Osinbajo also lived and worked in the state before he became vice president.

Since Mr Bakare announced his intention in Abuja, he has not been seen engaging in consultations across the country like the other aspirants. Political observers wonder if Mr Bakare is really serious about his ambition.

Mr Tinubu, known as the national leader of the APC, is relying on his political contacts spread across the country.

For his political weight, Mr Tinubu is at an advantage in the race. But he has powerful enemies in the so-called presidency cabal and in the top echelon of the party who are said to be working against him.

This feeling might be responsible for why the former Lagos governor lashed out at the president at a campaign stop in Abeokuta, Ogun State on Thursday, saying President Muhammadu Buhari would not have won if not for me.

Ogun

Ogun State has four presidential aspirants going to the convention, although Dimeji Bankole has been advised to withdraw. The other aspirants are Ibikunle Amosun, Tunde Bakare and Yemi Osinbajo.

Politically, the strongest among the Ogun-born politicians might be Mr Amosun. By his track records before 2003, he had been a rugged political fighter who at different times fought his way to power.

Mr Amosun took charge of the party structure immediately after he won the gubernatorial contest in 2011 and for eight years gave leadership to the party. Before he was elected governor, Mr Amosun was a senator between 2003 and 2007.

As the immediate past governor, he is deeply rooted in the political structure of the state but is currently at loggerheads with his successor, Dapo Abiodun, who is believed to be in charge of the delegates who will be going to vote in Abuja.

But inside sources told PREMIUM TIMES that the 60 delegates are not entirely under the governors control.

A party leader, who asked not to be mentioned, told PREMIUM TIMES that the 60 delegates are loyal to the trio of the governor, Mr Amosun and the Ogun west senatorial candidate, Solomon Adeola.

While the governor is routing for the vice president, Mr Adeola, the current Lagos west senator, is routing for Mr Tinubu while Amosun is working for himself.

The source said, They are all currently disguising because they want to collect money at the convention ground from three sources.

We are the ones in the grassroots. After the local government congress, we told them that many of those you have elected are Amosuns ardent supporters but they discarded our advice. But they are also now getting to see the fact of the matter.

As I speak, many of the delegates from Ogun State have been provided with two hotel rooms by different aspirants in Abuja.

Meanwhile, Governor Abiodun has vowed that the delegates will vote for his kinsman from the same local government, Mr Osinbajo.

Mr Abiodun said this during Mr Osinbajos consultation meeting with delegates in the state, at the Presidential Lodge, Ibara, Abeokuta, the capital of the state.

The governor said the vice president is eminently qualified to lead the country.

Your steadfastness, integrity and character are all well known. You are serving this country and the president meritoriously for the last seven years as the vice president.

We have no doubt that you will do well as the president and we will support you.

The former House Representatives Speaker, Mr Bankole, seems not to have any relationship with APC members in his state.

Ekiti

Governor Kayode Fayemi is the only presidential aspirant in the state and barring any last-minute change, he is expected to secure all the votes from the state.

The governor has said his ambition is not a do-or-die affair.

Ondo

In Odo State, Ajayi Boroffice is the only presidential aspirant but doesnt seem to enjoy the backing of the state governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, who is in charge of the 54 delegates from the state.

Mr Akeredolu has refused to publicly state who he would support in the primaries.

But a source in the Ondo State government said the governor will be supporting a former governor in the South-west at the presidential primaries.

The source, who chose not to be mentioned to avoid the governors wrath, said, Oga is a Yoruba man to the core, but he is not going to the party primary to stand behind Borofice. Definitely, he will support a former governor in the South West.

Only Messrs Tinubu and Amosun are former governors in the South-west who are in the APC presidential race and Mr Amosun is not known to have any relationship with the Ondo governor.

Osun

Oyo and Osun states have the highest number of delegates, 99 and 90 respectively but have no presidential candidate.

Their 189 delegates are expected to be shared between Messrs Tinubu, Osinbajo and Amosun.

Barring any wee hours changes, Osun delegates are expected to be behind Mr Tinubu owing to his support for the emergence of the state governor, Gboyega Oyetola, in 2018.

But the minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, was said to have also sent his list of delegates to the national headquarters.

The 90 delegates may, however, be shared between the governor and his predecessor in accordance with the discretion of the national leadership of the party.

Oyo

The 99 delegates in Oyo state seem to be up for grabs even though the governorship candidate of the party in Oyo State, Teslim Folarin, claimed that they belong to Mr Tinubu.

Mr Folarin made this assertion while receiving Mr Tinubu during his consultation visit to the delegates at Civic Centre in Ibadan, capital of Oyo state.

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
The police in Ondo State have given insight into how terrorists attacked the St Francis Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State, on Sunday.

It is believed that over 70 persons were killed and injured in the attack.

But a statement by the Ondo State Police Command, on Sunday, signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, Funmilayo Odunlami, said the attack was initiated by the gunmen at about 11:30 a.m., while the church service was ongoing.

Some armed men invaded the church and attacked members of the church, where some lives were lost and some sustained varying degrees of injuries, the statement said.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the assailants approached the church during the service, started shooting from outside the church while others numbering about four shot directly into the church.

The statement noted that the Commissioner of Police in the state, Oyeyemi Oyediran, had ordered the deployment of armed and specialised policemen to restore normalcy and fortify the entire community.

Meanwhile, the CP has equally ordered Forensic Investigation into the attack to ascertain the actual or remote cause(s) of the attack and for immediate arrest of the assailants as all hands are on deck to forestall any similar attack in any part of the state, the statement said.

The Commissioner of Police also commiserated with the Church, family of the deceased, the People of Owo and the Ondo State Government.

The police, were, however, silent on the number of mortality and the injured.

It earlier said it had deployed the Anti-Bomb Squad of the police to the area to provide further security, urging residents to be calm.

Witnesses had also reported that the gunmen threw explosives into the church and started shooting as the worshippers scampered for safety.

The Catholic Diocese of Ondo said the church was attacked during the celebration of Pentecost.

The Diocese also clarified that no priest was kidnapped in the incident.

WATCH: Governor Yahaya Bello's Roadmap to Hope 2023
OSLO, Norway, June 5, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Lytix Biopharma AS ("Lytix" or the "Company"), a clinical-stage company with an in situ vaccination technology platform, today announces data from its ATLAS-IT-04 trial in patients with progressive metastatic soft tissue sarcoma (STS). The data from this Phase II proof of concept study shows that LTX-315 in combination with Adoptive Cell Therapy (ACT) was able to stabilize the disease in 3 out of 4 fully treated patients in this hard-to-treat patient population, and that the LTX-315 treatment generated tumor-specific T cells.

The data is presented June 5th, 2022, as a poster at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) 2022 Annual Meeting, Chicago, IL, U.S.A.

The ATLAS-IT-04 trial was an open label, exploratory, Phase II trial assessing the effect of LTX-315 when used in combination with ACT in patients with metastatic STS. ACT with tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) is a potent treatment that can induce complete and durable tumor regression as documented in patients with melanoma. The use of ACT with TILs for patients with advanced STS has not previously been reported.

Patients with advanced stages of STS have few effective treatment options and respond poorly to current treatment as well as to immunotherapy tested in clinical trials. The trial design of ATLAS-IT-04 included intratumoral injections of LTX-315 ahead of surgical removal of tumors, followed by in vitro expansion of T cells as the first step. In a second step, the expanded T cells were infused back to the patients and the effect of LTX-315 on the tumor microenvironment was assessed.

LTX-315 is a first-in-class non-viral oncolytic molecule, representing a new and superior in situ therapeutic vaccination principle to boost the clonal expansion of T cells that kill tumor cells through a targeted immune response. In a recent Phase I/II study LTX-315 has been shown to increase TILs in malignant solid tumors after intratumoral injection.

The immune response data from the ATLAS-IT-04 trial demonstrates that the treatment induce both new and tumor-specific T cells which provides proof to the concept that LTX-315 generates an immune response that targets the tumor. Moreover, the data shows that LTX-315 induce expansion of a heterogenous pool of T-cell clones in blood, and a pool of these are also present in tumor tissue after treatment.

"This trial demonstrates that the combination of LTX-315 and ACT is not only feasible and tolerable, but that tumor-specific T cells can be expanded in vitro from tumors that have been pretreated with the oncolytic molecule LTX-315", Inge Marie Svane, PI and Professor at the National Center for Cancer Immune Therapy, Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital, comments.

She adds: "This combination therapy invokes tumor specific T cells that can be cultured and infused as part of an adoptive transfer regimen for several subtypes of soft tissue sarcoma, and its treatment schedule should be further optimized to achieve superior signs of efficacy."

The poster is presented June 5th at the ASCO 2022 Annual Meeting.

Poster Session: Sarcoma

Abstract: 11567

Poster: 471

The poster can be found here https://www.lytixbiopharma.com/research-development/posters.html

CONTACT:

For further information please contact:

ystein Rekdal (CEO), Telephone: +47 975 73 358, E-mail: [email protected]

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/lytix-biopharma-as/r/lytix-biopharma-as-announces-that-ltx-315-with-adoptive-cell-therapy-has-been-shown-to-generate-tumo,c3580464

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/16482/3580464/1589005.pdf LYTIX POSTER ASCO 2022

SOURCE Lytix Biopharma AS
New teclistamab data presented at the 2022 ASCO Annual Meeting report longer follow-up from Phase 1/2 MajesTEC-1 study evaluating the BCMAxCD3 bispecific antibody, including progression-free survival and subgroup analyses

Data from MajesTEC-1 study published in The New England Journal of Medicine

June 5, 2022, CHICAGO /PRNewswire/ -- The Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson announced updated efficacy and safety results from the teclistamab Phase 1/2 MajesTEC-1 study. Teclistamab is an investigational, off-the-shelf, T-cell redirecting bispecific antibody targeting B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA), which is being studied in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) who have received three or more prior lines of therapy.1 The data were featured as part of an oral session during the 2022 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting. Additional poster presentations featured data on teclistamab as a monotherapy, as well as in combination with DARZALEX FASPRO (daratumumab and hyaluronidase-fihj). Applications seeking approval of teclistamab are currently under health authority review in the U.S. and Europe.

The multicohort, open-label, Phase 1/2 MajesTEC-1 study is investigating the safety and efficacy of teclistamab in patients with RRMM who received at least three prior lines of therapy. As of March 2022, 165 patients were treated with teclistamab at the recommended subcutaneous (SC) Phase 2 dose (RP2D) of 1.5 mg/kg preceded by step-up doses of 0.06 and 0.3 mg/kg across both Phase 1 (NCT03145181) and Phase 2 (NCT04557098) of the study.

Longer Follow-up from MajesTEC-1 Study in Patients with Triple Class Exposed Multiple Myeloma (Abstract #8007)

At a median follow-up of 14.1 months (0.2624.4), an overall response rate (ORR) of 63 percent (95 percent Confidence Interval [CI], range, 55.270.4) was observed in patients with triple class exposed multiple myeloma, with a complete response (CR) or better achieved in 39.4 percent of patients.1 Study participants had three or more prior lines of therapy, with a median of five prior lines, including a prior proteasome inhibitor, immunomodulatory drug and anti-CD38 antibody.1 The majority of patients were triple-class refractory and/or refractory to their last line of treatment.1 Although response duration data are not mature, the median duration of response at this time is 18.4 months and has not been reached in patients who achieved a CR or better (95 percent CI, 14.9 not estimable).1 This suggests responses to teclistamab were durable and deepened over time.1 The medium progression-free survival (PFS) was 11.3 months (95 percent CI, 8.817.1).1 Adverse events (AEs) were low-grade for the most part and manageable with no new safety signals seen.1

These results from the MajesTEC-1 study were also simultaneously published online in The New England Journal of Medicine.2

"The MajesTEC-1 study update suggests patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma receiving teclistamab achieved a deep response that was also durable," said Ajay K. Nooka, M.D., MPH, FACP, Associate Professor of Hematology and Medical Oncology at Emory School of Medicine and principal study investigator. "These longer-term data, notably the overall response rate and progression-free survival, are encouraging in this heavily pretreated patient population."

No new safety signals were observed with longer follow-up.1 In 14.1 month follow-up data presented at ASCO 2022, the most common grade 3/4 hematologic AEs were neutropenia (64.2 percent); anemia (37 percent); lymphopenia (32.7 percent) and thrombocytopenia (21.2 percent). Infections occurred in 76.4 percent of patients (44.8 percent grade 3/4).1 The most common nonhematologic AE was cytokine release syndrome (CRS), all of which were grade 1/2 except for 1 transient grade 3 CRS (72.1 percent all grade).1 The median time to CRS onset was two days (range, 16) and median duration was two days (range, 19).1 There were five treatment-related deaths, and dose reductions and discontinuations due to AEs were infrequent.1

First Results from Cohort C of the MajesTEC-1 Study of Teclistamab in Patients with RRMM with Prior Exposure to BCMA Targeted Treatment (Abstract #8013)

Initial results were also presented from Cohort C of the MajesTEC-1 study evaluating teclistamab in the treatment of patients with RRMM who had previously been exposed to an anti-BCMA treatment.3 These patients had received a median of six prior lines of therapy, most (85 percent) were triple-class refractory and 35 percent were penta-drug refractory.3 The use of teclistamab following prior treatment with chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T) therapy and/or an antibody drug conjugate (ADC) (e.g., belantamab mafodotin) targeting BCMA resulted in a promising response rate in patients with heavily pretreated RRMM.3 At a median follow-up of 12.5 months (0.7-14.4), the ORR was 52.5 percent (95 percent CI, 36.168.5) among 40 patients who received teclistamab in Cohort C.3 Responses to teclistamab occurred early and deepened over time, with comparable response rates in patients previously treated with an ADC and/or CAR-T.3

A tolerable side-effect profile was observed in patients previously treated with anti-BCMA treatment, with no dose reductions or discontinuations due to AEs.3 The safety profile for Cohort C was comparable with that observed in BCMA treatment-naive patients, with no new safety signals.3 In 12.5 month follow-up data, 26 patients (65 percent; 30 percent grade 3/4) had infections.3 The most common AEs (n=40) were CRS (65 percent any grade), with a median time to CRS onset and duration of two days (range, 2-6) and two days (range, 1-4) respectively.3 Cytopenias (grade 3/4) were noted as follows; neutropenia (62.5 percent); thrombocytopenia (30 percent); anemia (35 percent); and lymphopenia (42.5 percent).3

Initial Patient-Reported Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) Outcomes in Patients with RRMM Treated with Teclistamab (Abstract #8033)

Initial results from an analysis of patient-reported health-related quality of life (HRQoL) outcomes following treatment with teclistamab were also shared in a poster session.4 The study analyzed patient-reported assessments of quality of life metrics among patients in the MajesTEC-1 trial who had received their first treatment dose by March 18, 2021.4 The metrics analyzed include function (physical, role, emotional, cognitive, social); symptoms (fatigue, nausea/vomiting, pain, appetite loss, constipation, diarrhea); and generic health (mobility, self-care, usual activities, pain/discomfort, anxiety/depression).4 Over 80 percent of the 110 patients included in the patient-reported outcomes (PRO) analysis noted meaningful improvement (percentages of patients with clinically meaningful change from baseline [EORTC QLQ-C30 scales: 10 points]) in at least one of the symptom scales.4 Reduction in pain scores occurred as early as cycle two.4 At the moment, no meaningful improvement was observed in the scales for physical functioning and fatigue.4 These initial PRO results complement recent clinical data and support teclistamab as a potential off-the-shelf, T-cell redirecting therapy for patients with RRMM.4

As of September 7, 2021, median duration of treatment was 5.7 months and median follow-up was 7.8 months.4 Global health status scores significantly improved from baseline (95 percent CIs for least squares mean change did not cross 0) at cycles four, six, and eight; emotional functioning significantly improved at all time points.4 PRO assessments included European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 item (EORTC QLQ-C30).4 PROs were assessed on day one of each treatment cycle (28 days per cycle).4 Additional follow-up is needed to assess the full benefit of meaningful improvement in functional outcomes.4

Two Studies Investigate the Safety and Efficacy of Teclistamab and DARZALEX FASPRO (daratumumab and hyaluronidase-fihj) in Combination for the Treatment of Patients with RRMM

Updated results from the Phase 1 TRIMM-2 study (NCT04108195) were featured during a poster session (Abstract #8032) at ASCO 2022, evaluating teclistamab in combination with DARZALEX FASPRO, a CD38-directed monoclonal antibody approved to be given subcutaneously for the treatment of patients with multiple myeloma.5 In the study, patients received a median of five prior lines of therapy; 75.4 percent had prior exposure to anti-CD38 therapies, and 63.1 percent were refractory to anti-CD38 treatment.5 Evaluable patients achieved an ORR of 76.5 percent at a median follow-up of 8.6 months (0.319.6).5

A poster presentation for the ongoing multicenter, open-label, randomized Phase 3 MajesTEC-3 (NCT05083169) study comparing the efficacy of teclistamab in combination with daratumumab versus investigator's choice of daratumumab in combination with pomalidomide and dexamethasone (DPd) or bortezomib and dexamethasone (DVd) (Poster TPS8072) in patients with RRMM was also presented at ASCO.6

Additional data from both the teclistamab (Abstract #S188) and talquetamab (Abstract #S183) cohorts of the TRIMM-2 study will be featured as oral presentations at the European Hematology Association (EHA) 2022 Congress taking place in Vienna, Austria, June 9-12.7,8

"The updated data presented at ASCO support the ongoing evaluation of teclistamab as a monotherapy and in combination with standard of care treatments," said Yusri Elsayed, M.D., M.HSc., Ph.D., Vice President, Disease Area Leader, Hematologic Malignancies, Janssen Research & Development, LLC. "These results underscore our ongoing commitment to address the unmet need for new therapeutic options and our effort to bring forward novel treatments for multiple myeloma patients in the near future."

About Teclistamab

Teclistamab is an investigational, fully humanized IgG4, T-cell redirecting, bispecific antibody targeting both BCMA (B-cell maturation antigen) and CD3, the T-cell receptor. BCMA is expressed at high levels on multiple myeloma cells.9,10,11,12,13 Teclistamab redirects CD3-positive T-cells to BCMA-expressing myeloma cells to induce killing of tumor cells.8

Teclistamab is currently being evaluated in several monotherapy and combination studies. In 2020, the European Commission and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) each granted teclistamab Orphan Drug Designation for the treatment of multiple myeloma. In January 2021 and June 2021, teclistamab received a PRIority MEdicines (PRIME) designation by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and Breakthrough Therapy Designation (BTD) by the U.S. FDA, respectively. PRIME offers enhanced interaction and early dialogue to optimize drug development plans and speed up evaluation of cutting-edge, scientific advances that target a high unmet medical need.14 The U.S. FDA grants BTD to expedite the development and regulatory review of an investigational medicine that is intended to treat a serious or life-threatening condition and is based on preliminary clinical evidence that demonstrates the drug may have substantial improvement on at least one clinically significant endpoint over available therapy.15 In December 2021, Janssen submitted a Biologics License Application (BLA) to the FDA seeking approval of teclistamab for the treatment of patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma; a marketing authorization application (MAA) was submitted to the EMA for teclistamab approval in January 2022.

About DARZALEX FASPRO

In August 2012 , Janssen Biotech, Inc. and Genmab A/S entered into a worldwide agreement, which granted Janssen an exclusive license to develop, manufacture and commercialize daratumumab. DARZALEX FASPRO is the only CD38-directed antibody approved to be given subcutaneously to treat patients with multiple myeloma and now light chain (AL) amyloidosis. DARZALEX FASPRO is co-formulated with recombinant human hyaluronidase PH20 (rHuPH20), Halozyme's ENHANZE drug delivery technology.

DARZALEX FASPRO is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with multiple myeloma:

in combination with bortezomib, melphalan and prednisone in newly diagnosed patients who are ineligible for autologous stem cell transplant

in combination with lenalidomide and dexamethasone in newly diagnosed patients who are ineligible for autologous stem cell transplant and in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who have received at least one prior therapy

in combination with bortezomib, thalidomide, and dexamethasone in newly diagnosed patients who are eligible for autologous stem cell transplant

in combination with pomalidomide and dexamethasone in patients who have received at least one prior line of therapy including lenalidomide and a proteasome inhibitor

in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone in patients who have received at least one prior therapy

in combination with carfilzomib and dexamethasone in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who have received one to three prior lines of therapy

as monotherapy in patients who have received at least three prior lines of therapy including a proteasome inhibitor (PI) and an immunomodulatory agent or who are double-refractory to a PI and an immunomodulatory agent

DARZALEX FASPRO in combination with bortezomib, cyclophosphamide, and dexamethasone is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with newly diagnosed AL amyloidosis. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on response rate. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in a confirmatory trial(s).

Limitations of Use

DARZALEX FASPRO is not indicated and is not recommended for the treatment of patients with AL amyloidosis who have NYHA Class IIIB or Class IV cardiac disease or Mayo Stage IIIB outside of controlled clinical trials.

Full prescribing information for DARZALEX FASPRO is available here .

DARZALEX FASPRO IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

CONTRAINDICATIONS

DARZALEX FASPRO is contraindicated in patients with a history of severe hypersensitivity to daratumumab, hyaluronidase or any of the components of the formulation.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Hypersensitivity and Other Administration Reactions

Both systemic administration-related reactions, including severe or life-threatening reactions, and local injection-site reactions can occur with DARZALEX FASPRO. Fatal reactions have been reported with daratumumab-containing products, including DARZALEX FASPRO.

Systemic Reactions

In a pooled safety population of 898 patients with multiple myeloma (N=705) or light chain (AL) amyloidosis (N=193) who received DARZALEX FASPRO as monotherapy or in combination, 9% of patients experienced a systemic administration-related reaction (Grade 2: 3.2%, Grade 3: 1%). Systemic administration-related reactions occurred in 8% of patients with the first injection, 0.3% with the second injection, and cumulatively 1% with subsequent injections. The median time to onset was 3.2 hours (range: 4 minutes to 3.5 days). Of the 140 systemic administration-related reactions that occurred in 77 patients, 121 (86%) occurred on the day of DARZALEX FASPRO administration. Delayed systemic administration-related reactions have occurred in 1% of the patients.

Severe reactions included hypoxia, dyspnea, hypertension and tachycardia. Other signs and symptoms of systemic administration-related reactions may include respiratory symptoms, such as bronchospasm, nasal congestion, cough, throat irritation, allergic rhinitis, and wheezing, as well as anaphylactic reaction, pyrexia, chest pain, pruritis, chills, vomiting, nausea, and hypotension.

Pre-medicate patients with histamine-1 receptor antagonist, acetaminophen and corticosteroids. Monitor patients for systemic administration-related reactions, especially following the first and second injections. For anaphylactic reaction or life-threatening (Grade 4) administration-related reactions, immediately and permanently discontinue DARZALEX FASPRO. Consider administering corticosteroids and other medications after the administration of DARZALEX FASPRO depending on dosing regimen and medical history to minimize the risk of delayed (defined as occurring the day after administration) systemic administration-related reactions.

Local Reactions

In this pooled safety population, injection-site reactions occurred in 8% of patients, including Grade 2 reactions in 0.7%. The most frequent (>1%) injection-site reaction was injection site erythema. These local reactions occurred a median of 5 minutes (range: 0 minutes to 6.5 days) after starting administration of DARZALEX FASPRO. Monitor for local reactions and consider symptomatic management.

Cardiac Toxicity in Patients with Light Chain (AL) Amyloidosis

Serious or fatal cardiac adverse reactions occurred in patients with light chain (AL) amyloidosis who received DARZALEX FASPRO in combination with bortezomib, cyclophosphamide and dexamethasone. Serious cardiac disorders occurred in 16% and fatal cardiac disorders occurred in 10% of patients. Patients with NYHA Class IIIA or Mayo Stage IIIA disease may be at greater risk. Patients with NYHA Class IIIB or IV disease were not studied. Monitor patients with cardiac involvement of light chain (AL) amyloidosis more frequently for cardiac adverse reactions and administer supportive care as appropriate.

Neutropenia

Daratumumab may increase neutropenia induced by background therapy. Monitor complete blood cell counts periodically during treatment according to manufacturer's prescribing information for background therapies. Monitor patients with neutropenia for signs of infection. Consider withholding DARZALEX FASPRO until recovery of neutrophils. In lower body weight patients receiving DARZALEX FASPRO, higher rates of Grade 3-4 neutropenia were observed.

Thrombocytopenia

Daratumumab may increase thrombocytopenia induced by background therapy. Monitor complete blood cell counts periodically during treatment according to manufacturer's prescribing information for background therapies. Consider withholding DARZALEX FASPRO until recovery of platelets.

Embryo-Fetal Toxicity

Based on the mechanism of action, DARZALEX FASPRO can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. DARZALEX FASPRO may cause depletion of fetal immune cells and decreased bone density. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females with reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with DARZALEX FASPRO and for 3 months after the last dose.

The combination of DARZALEX FASPRO with lenalidomide is contraindicated in pregnant women, because lenalidomide may cause birth defects and death of the unborn child. Refer to the lenalidomide prescribing information on use during pregnancy.

Interference with Serological Testing

Daratumumab binds to CD38 on red blood cells (RBCs) and results in a positive Indirect Antiglobulin Test (Indirect Coombs test). Daratumumab-mediated positive indirect antiglobulin test may persist for up to 6 months after the last daratumumab administration. Daratumumab bound to RBCs masks detection of antibodies to minor antigens in the patient's serum. The determination of a patient's ABO and Rh blood type are not impacted.

Notify blood transfusion centers of this interference with serological testing and inform blood banks that a patient has received DARZALEX FASPRO. Type and screen patients prior to starting DARZALEX FASPRO.

Interference with Determination of Complete Response

Daratumumab is a human IgG kappa monoclonal antibody that can be detected on both the serum protein electrophoresis (SPE) and immunofixation (IFE) assays used for the clinical monitoring of endogenous M-protein. This interference can impact the determination of complete response and of disease progression in some DARZALEX FASPRO-treated patients with IgG kappa myeloma protein.

ADVERSE REACTIONS

The most common adverse reaction (20%) with DARZALEX FASPRO monotherapy is upper respiratory tract infection. The most common adverse reactions with combination therapy (20% for any combination) include fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, dyspnea, insomnia, pyrexia, cough, muscle spasms, back pain, vomiting, upper respiratory tract infection, peripheral sensory neuropathy, constipation, pneumonia, and peripheral edema.

The most common adverse reactions (20%) in patients with light chain (AL) amyloidosis who received DARZALEX FASPRO are upper respiratory tract infection, diarrhea, peripheral edema, constipation, fatigue, peripheral sensory neuropathy, nausea, insomnia, dyspnea, and cough.

The most common hematology laboratory abnormalities (40%) with DARZALEX FASPRO are decreased leukocytes, decreased lymphocytes, decreased neutrophils, decreased platelets, and decreased hemoglobin.

Please see full Prescribing Information for DARZALEX FASPRO.

About Multiple Myeloma

Multiple myeloma is an incurable blood cancer that affects some white blood cells called plasma cells, which are found in the bone marrow.16 When damaged, these plasma cells rapidly spread and replace normal cells in the bone marrow with tumors. In 2020, worldwide an estimated 176,000 people were diagnosed with multiple myeloma.17 In 2022, it is estimated that more than 34,000 people will be diagnosed with multiple myeloma, and more than 12,000 people will die from the disease in the U.S.18 While some people diagnosed with multiple myeloma initially have no symptoms, most patients are diagnosed due to symptoms that can include bone fracture or pain, low red blood cell counts, tiredness, high calcium levels, kidney problems or infections.19

About the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson

At Janssen, we're creating a future where disease is a thing of the past. We're the Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson, working tirelessly to make that future a reality for patients everywhere by fighting sickness with science, improving access with ingenuity, and healing hopelessness with heart. We focus on areas of medicine where we can make the biggest difference: Cardiovascular, Metabolism, & Retina; Immunology; Infectious Diseases & Vaccines; Neuroscience; Oncology; and Pulmonary Hypertension.

Learn more at www.janssen.com. Follow us at www.twitter.com/JanssenGlobal. Janssen Research & Development, LLC is one of the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson.

Dr. Nooka has served as a paid consultant to Janssen; he has not been paid for any media work.

Cautions Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 regarding product development and the potential benefits and treatment impact of teclistamab and DARZALEX FASPRO. The reader is cautioned not to rely on these forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations of future events. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or known or unknown risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results could vary materially from the expectations and projections of Janssen Research & Development, LLC or any of the other Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies and/or Johnson & Johnson. Risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: challenges and uncertainties inherent in product research and development, including the uncertainty of clinical success and of obtaining regulatory approvals; uncertainty of commercial success; manufacturing difficulties and delays; competition, including technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; challenges to patents; product efficacy or safety concerns resulting in product recalls or regulatory action; changes in behavior and spending patterns of purchasers of health care products and services; changes to applicable laws and regulations, including global health care reforms; and trends toward health care cost containment. A further list and descriptions of these risks, uncertainties and other factors can be found in Johnson & Johnson's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 2, 2022, including in the sections captioned "Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements" and "Item 1A. Risk Factors," and in Johnson & Johnson's subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Copies of these filings are available online at www.sec.gov, www.jnj.com or on request from Johnson & Johnson. None of the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies nor Johnson & Johnson undertakes to update any forward-looking statement as a result of new information or future events or developments.

______________________________

1 Nooka A et al. Teclistamab, a B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) x CD3 bispecific antibody, in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM): Updated efficacy and safety results from MajesTEC-1. 2022 ASCO Annual Meeting  American Society of Clinical Oncology. June 2022.

2 Moreau P et al. Teclistamab, a BCMAxCD3 antibody, in triple class exposed multiple myeloma. The New England Journal of Medicine, June 2022.

3 Touzeau C et al. Efficacy and safety of teclistamab (tec), a B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) x CD3 bispecific antibody, in patients (pts) with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) after exposure to other BCMA-targeted agents. 2022 ASCO Annual Meeting  American Society of Clinical Oncology. June 2022.

4 Martin T et al. Health-related quality of life in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) treated with teclistamab, a B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) x CD3 bispecific antibody: patient-reported outcomes in MajesTEC-1. 2022 ASCO Annual Meeting  American Society of Clinical Oncology. June 2022.

5 Rodriguez-Otero P et al. A novel, immunotherapy-based approach for the treatment of relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM): Updated phase 1b results for daratumumab in combination with teclistamab (a BCMA x CD3 bispecific antibody). 2022 ASCO Annual Meeting  American Society of Clinical Oncology. June 2022.

6 Mateos M et al. Randomized, phase 3 study of teclistamab plus daratumumab versus investigator's choice of daratumumab, pomalidomide, and dexamethasone or daratumumab, bortezomib, and dexamethasone in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma. 2022 ASCO Annual Meeting  American Society of Clinical Oncology. June 2022.

7 Rodriguez-Otero P et al. A novel, immunotherapy-based approach for the treatment of relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM): Updated phase 1b results for daratumumab in combination with teclistamab (a BCMA x CD3 bispecific antibody). EHA 2022 Congress  European Hematology Association. June 2022.

8 WJC van de Donk N et al. Novel Combination Immunotherapy for the Treatment of Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma: Update Phase 1B Results for Talquetamab (A GPRC5D x CD3 Bispecific Antibody) in Combination with Daratumumab. EHA 2022 Congress  European Hematology Association. June 2022.

9 Labrijn AF et al. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 2013;110:5145.

10 Frerichs KA et al. Clin Cancer Res. 2020; doi: 10.1158/1078-0432.CCR-19-2299.

11 Cancer Research Institute. "Adoptive Cell Therapy: TIL, TCR, CAR T, AND NK CELL THERAPIES." Available at: https://www.cancerresearch.org/immunotherapy/treatment-types/adoptive-cell-therapy.

12 Cho SF et al. Frontiers in Immunology. 2018; 9: 1821.

13 Benonisson H et al. Molecular Cancer Therapeutics. 2019 (18) (2) 312-322.

14 European Medicines Agency. PRIME Factsheet. Available at: https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/human-regulatory/research-development/prime-priority-medicines. Accessed December 2021.

15 The U.S. Food and Drug Administration. "Expedited Programs for Serious Conditions." Available at: https://www.fda.gov/downloads/Drugs/GuidanceComplianceRegulatoryInformation/Guidances/UCM358301.pdf. Accessed December 2021.

16 Rajkumar SV. Multiple myeloma: 2020 update on diagnosis, risk-stratification and management. Am J Hematol.2020;95(5):548-5672020;95(5):548-567. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32212178

17 Cancer.Net. "Multiple Myeloma: Statistics." Available at:https://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/multiple-myeloma/statistics#:~:text=Worldwide%2C%20an%20estimated%20176%2C404%20people,worldwide%20died%20from%20multiple%20myeloma. Accessed June 3, 2022.

18 American Cancer Society. "Key Statistics About Multiple Myeloma." Available at: https://cancerstatisticscenter.cancer.org/?_ga=2.84250769.967379196.1642100198-1705811479.1642100198#!/. Accessed April 2022.

19 American Cancer Society. "What Is Multiple Myeloma?" Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/multiple-myeloma/about/what-is-multiple-myeloma.html. Accessed January 2022.

Media Contact:

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Bernadette King

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SOURCE Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson
HIA TOPICS delivers library of medically authenticated answers

ALPHARETTA, Ga., June. 5, 2022 /PRNewswire/-- The Hispanic Health Coalition of Georgia today announced the launch of a partnership with HIA Technologies, Inc. This important development is part of a larger strategic plan to expand efforts to reach and improve the effectiveness in serving the Hispanic/Latino community. It will also serve other minority, underserved, and socio-economically challenged populations. The interactive education platform, HIA TOPICS will be leveraged to reduce misinformation, increase engagement, and improve health literacy. Leveraging 20+ years of academic research in human/computer interaction, digital humans, and advanced AI technologies, HIA TOPICS allows health providers to create their own virtual learning environments, eliminates barriers to medically validated information, and connects patients to real-time answers from their physician via conversational AI.

Shirley E. "Bella," Borghi, HHCGA Executive Director, said this about the partnership with HIA:

"The HHCGA has long regarded education as a critical strategic component in the quest to promote awareness and facilitate access to healthcare services and available benefits. By partnering with HIA, the HHCGA can now deliver a library of healthcare topics, sourced from known and respected subject matter experts to the Hispanic/Latino community. HIA TOPICS represents an extraordinary opportunity for underserved communities to have answers to health questions, and to do so in an interactive virtual learning environment."

With HIA TOPICS, clinicians deploy physician-authored education from a library of healthcare topics. Digital agents then host interactive presentations during which patients can ask questions and hear their physician's answers, thanks to physician-controlled AI.

CEO Vacit Arat states, "Our method of matching physician-authored responses to real-time patient questions simulates live interactions with pinpoint accuracy." He adds, "Patients get trusted information from the source, stop error-prone internet searches, and reconnect with their providers from the safety of home. HHCGA is a perfect example of how organizations that are committed to health equity can leverage cutting-edge technology that is both inclusive and accessible."

For HHCGA, the goal of the program is to explore the utility and impact of HIA TOPICS on patients, and measure potential improvements in efficiency and adherence to or adoption of medical protocols. Some specific use outcomes that are being collected include: quantitative and qualitative data to address the impact of social determinants on underserved populations, with a focus on the Hispanic/Latino population and ultimately justify their Extension For Community Healthcare Outcomes (Echo) model, which would support peer collaboration, network building, and capacity resilience throughout the public health workforce.

HHCGA's implementation of HIA TOPICS focused first on increasing awareness for screening exams related to Colonoscopy and Mammography. Colon cancer and breast cancer kill a disproportionate number of Hispanic/Latino and Black Americans every year. As cited by the American Cancer Society, 176,000 new cancer cases will be diagnosed within our Hispanic/Latino population, resulting in 46,500 deaths each year, and 224,080 new cancer cases will be diagnosed within the Black community resulting in 73,680 deaths each year. With early screening and detection, the survival rate of these cancers is dramatically increased for better health outcomes. By providing trustworthy education designed to specifically reach these audiences, HHCGA plans to publish results from this program in a whitepaper this summer.

About HIA Technologies

HIA Technologies, Inc. was founded with the mission to vastly expand the ways businesses reach their audiences, allowing them to participate in intimate, personalized, conversations in an efficient, precise, and low-cost manner. HIA's Embodied AI technology is a transformative user interface that allows artificially intelligent interactive characters to conduct sophisticated conversations with people, educate them, ask and answer questions, and report back on the interactions. A result of 20+ years of research in human-computer interaction, digital humans, AI, and XR, HIA's products allow businesses to quickly create and deploy conversations at scale, opening the door to endless engagement opportunities.

About The HHCGA

The Hispanic Health Coalition of Georgia, ("HHCGA"), is a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation, with more than

35 years dedicated to serving the Hispanic/Latino and under-served populations throughout the State of Georgia. The HHCGA is Georgia's only statewide organization focused on Hispanic/Latino Chronic Disease prevention and better health outcomes. It offers direct community services and support activities to improve the health of Georgia Latinos. As an expert in community health promotion, education, policy, and health advocacy, HHCGA creates high-quality, culturally sensitive, and linguistically appropriate health care and prevention services for their community.

Media Contact

Jolean Sheffield

VP Content and Marketing [email protected] www.HIA.AI

Ossie Williams

Director of Communications/PR

[email protected]

https://www.hhcga.org/

SOURCE Hispanic Health Coalition of GA
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Leading global suppliers can assist buyers in realizing high-cost savings through their efforts on areas such as forward integration, reducing total ownership cost, manage ad hoc spend, negotiate on pricing and contractual terms, conference participation, managing labor price volatility, level of automation, quality management, and reduction in ad-hoc spend. Collaborations with global suppliers will also help buyers in cost-saving and ensure high-quality procurement in the dynamic market.

Industrial Fans and Blowers Market in India: Key Price Trends

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The report also offers information on the upcoming trends and challenges that will influence market growth. www.spendedge.com/report/industrial-fans-and-blowers-sourcing-and-procurement-intelligence-report

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Top Industrial Fans and Blowers suppliers and their cost structures

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EBM-Papst A&NZ Pty. Ltd.

FlaktGroup Holding GmbH

Ingersoll Rand Inc

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Market Insights

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New Delhi, June 5 (UNI) President Ram Nath Kovind paid tributes to Sant Kabir and inaugurated the Sant Kabir Academy and Research Centre and Swadesh Darshan Yojana at Kabir Chaura Dham in Maghar of Uttar Pradesh on Sunday.

Speaking on the occasion, President Kovind said that he was happy to inaugurate the Sant Kabir Academy and Research Centre, the foundation stone of which was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi four years ago.

As per an official statement, the President said that Sant Kabir was born into a poor family. But he never considered that deprivation as his weakness. On the contrary, he made it his strength. Although Sant Kabir never received any formal education, yet he gained empirical knowledge by associating with the saints.
Hong Kong, June 5 : The Hong Kong government has said that it will distribute around 100,000 sets of Covid-19 rapid antigen test (RAT) kits to people in an area of the region as part of a follow-up on recent detection of the Covid-19 virus in sewage samples.

The test kits will be distributed to residents, cleaning workers and property management staff working in estates in Kwun Tong and Wong Tai Sin with positive sewage testing results showing relatively high viral loads, in order to help identify infected persons, Xinhua news agency reported.

The government also urged RAT kit users to report any positive results for Covid-19 via the government's online platform.

In an effort to combat Covid-19, the government's Environmental Protection Department and the Drainage Services Department have strengthened the sampling of sewage in all districts of Hong Kong for the virus testing.

On Saturday, Hong Kong registered 176 new Covid cases by nucleic acid tests, and 270 additional cases through self-reported rapid antigen tests, official data showed.
Ankara, June 5 : Turkey will address its security concerns in northern Syria with a new cross-border operation, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said.

Erdogan made the announcement in an address to his party members in the capital Ankara, noting the new operation will make up for the "shortcomings" of the security line on its southern borders, Xinhua news agency reported.

The Turkish military "destroyed the terror corridor" that Syria's Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) has aimed to build, he said, referring to Turkey's four previous operations in northern Syria along the Turkish border.

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. Turkish authorities say the operations aim to eliminate terror threats and provide a safe zone that will facilitate the return of Syrian refugees to their homes.

On Wednesday, Erdogan said Turkey's planned new military operation in Syria will target the YPG in Tell Rifaat and Manbij areas near the northern city of Aleppo before gradually extending to other parts of the neighboring country.

The PKK, listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, has been rebelling against the Turkish government for more than three decades. Ankara sees the YPG as the Syrian branch of the PKK.
Seoul, June 5 : North Korea fired an unidentified ballistic missile toward the East Sea on Sunday, South Korea's military said, in the recalcitrant regime's 18th show of force in 2022.

The Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) announced the launch in a text message sent to reporters. It gave no further details, with a related analysis apparently under way, Yonhap news agency reported.

The North test-fired a suspected intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) and two apparent short-range ballistic missiles into the East Sea on May 25.
New Delhi, June 5 : The Bonn Climate Change Conference is set to kick off from June 6-16, designed to prepare for the UN Climate Change Conference COP27 in November.

COP27 in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, will build on the positive outcome of last year's UN Climate Change Conference COP26 in Glasgow, which finalised operational details of the Paris Agreement and identified work going forward, in the key areas of mitigation, adaptation, support -- particularly finance -- and loss and damage.

The meeting will take place against a backdrop of accelerating climate impacts and geopolitical tension.

UN Climate Change Executive Secretary, Patricia Espinosa, called on governments not to be deterred. "Climate change is not an agenda we can afford to push back on our global schedule. We need decisions and actions now and it is incumbent on all nations to make progress in Bonn," she said.

Espinosa noted that to implement the commitments made to achieve the 1.5 degrees Celsius goal of the Paris Agreement, the world has a "significant workload ahead, but also a great deal to build on. But ambition must urgently be raised to avoid the worst impacts of climate change, and immediate action is needed".

Currently, the world is on track to more than double the 1.5 Celsius goal of the Paris Agreement by the end of the century.

"COP27 in Egypt needs to focus on implementation. There, nations must show how they will, through legislation, policies and programs, and throughout all jurisdictions and sectors, begin putting the Paris Agreement into practice in their home countries," the UN's top climate change official said.

"In Egypt, all sectors of the economy and societies need to tangibly show that they recognize the magnitude of the climate emergency we face and are taking bold, concrete steps -- backed by specific plans -- to deliver the urgent and transformational climate ambition we simply must see before it's too late," she added.

At the June sessions, discussions will take place on a range of important topics, including greenhouse gas emission reductions, adapting to climate impacts, and providing financial support for developing countries to cut emissions and adapt to climate change.

The "hot" topics to track in Bonn are: Loss and Damage: This negotiating session will host the first official "Glasgow Dialogue on Loss and Damage" -- a two-year process to explore ways to provide funding to address loss and damage.

Adaptation: Developing countries have high expectations for progress on the Glasgow-Sharm el-Sheikh work programme on the global goal on adaptation. In Bonn delegates will begin preparations that will lead to a decision at COP27 on the scope of the goal, data and metrics and reporting methodologies.

Finance: Developed countries will be pressed to reassure developing countries that the $100 billion annual climate finance commitment will be met, and that progress is made toward doubling adaptation finance by 2025. There will be a technical dialogue during week two on providing climate finance beyond 2025.

Mitigation: Delegates will prepare a draft decision for the mitigation work programme which details the role of sectoral commitments or targets, encourages improvements to national climate plans and could offer enhanced support for taking action.

Global Stocktake: First technical meeting on the Global Stocktake will also be held in Bonn. The Global Stocktake offers an official process to check on the progress towards achieving the Paris Agreement's goals. The countries should signal how the Global Stocktake process can translate technical outputs into political outcomes.

Rules and Implementation: Delegates will continue to discuss technical work related to Article 6 (carbon markets), transparently reporting climate data, and other rules underpinning the Paris Agreement.
New Delhi, June 5 : Despite voices being raised against his style of functioning, Tamil Nadu BJP President K. Annamalai has the backing of the Central leadership for the work he is doing to strengthen the party on the ground.

Appreciating the work of Annamalai, a top BJP leader said that despite being new in politics, he is working hard to strengthen the party at the ground level.

"People of Tamil Nadu are looking for freshness and change politics. He (Annamalai) has brought a new style and freshness in political functioning. I am sure that he will take the party to a new height in the state," he said.

Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Chennai, another senior leader pointed out that the welcome he received clearly shows that the acceptance of BJP and its most popular leader (Modi) is continuously increasing.

"The Prime Minister's popularity is increasing in Tamil Nadu and people are made aware about central government's development and welfare schemes. The BJP workers are reaching out to the beneficiaries of the Central government's schemes.

"The BJP cadres in the state under the leadership of Annamalai are doing great job in reaching out to the beneficiaries of the schemes. They are knocking the doors of the beneficiaries across the state," a senior BJP leader said.

Another senior party leader pointed out that a robust party structure has been created on the ground across the state and now efforts are on to strengthen the party to reach out to new people, which is the focus of Annamalai.

"With an objective to reach out to the new people, he (Annamalai) personally visits 25 new houses every day to interact with people. He meets the people at their houses and works to win their support for the party," he said.

While his detractors claim that Annamalai, a former IPS officer, is trying to implement police culture in the Tamil Nadu BJP, saying that such style of functioning will not help the party in the long run.

Some even questioned his political experience and said, "A political party cannot be cleaned and made functional by a single individual who doesn't have any political background. Energy and drive are one thing and delivering is another matter. It has to be seen how he will exhibit the politics of inclusion within the party." Sources claimed that Annamalai's position is intact despite the discontent in the state unit as he has the full backing of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. It is also learnt that BJP chief J.P. Nadda is appreciating his work.

"We are aware of the things in Tamil Nadu and as per our assessment, Annamalai is doing a great job as state president. He is doing several new things for the growth of the party in Tamil Nadu which may not be liked by some, but it will ultimately benefit the party," a senior leader in Delhi said.

Recently, multiple cases were filed across Tamil Nadu against Annamalai over a 'derogatory' Twitter post made by him.
Lucknow, June 5 : Lucknow, known for its 'Nawabi culture, now threatens to turn into a religious battleground.

Even as the Uttar Pradesh government is mulling a proposal to change the name of the state capital to Laxmanpuri after Lord Laxman, the decade-old controversy over the Tile Wali Masjid in Lucknow has gained momentum.

Emboldened over the 'success' in the Gyanvapi Masjid complex where court-ordered survey and videography was done last month, right wing groups in Lucknow have now launched the exercise for a similar survey of the Lucknow Mosque, claiming that it was originally known as 'Laxman Tila'.

The case on this issue was first filed by lawyer Hari Shankar Jain in the Lucknow Civil Court in 2013, seeking a survey of the mosque.

Hari Shankar Jain and his son Vishnu Shankar Jain are known to be at the forefront of all such cases, including Gyanvapi and Mathura.

The Tile Wali mosque also has the tomb of Shah Peer Mohammad, forefather of the late Maulana Fazlur Rahman.

While the controversy has been going on for several decades, BJP veteran late Lalji Tandon, known for his historical knowledge of Lucknow, in his book 'Ankaha Lucknow' had accused Muslims of severing the city's connect with Laxman, the younger brother of Lord Ram.

Tandon wrote: "The state capital's biggest Sunni Mosque built during the reign of Aurangzeb was constructed over Lakshman Tila, a raised platform named after Lord Ram's brother." The issue took a curious turn in July 2018 when the BJP-controlled Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) announced installation of a statue of Laxman at the crossing outside the Tile Wali mosque.

Mayor Sanyukta Bhatia said the decision was an attempt to establish the 'Lucknow-Lakshman' connect.

The statue is yet to be installed following stiff opposition from the clerics.

Last month, while welcoming Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had said in a tweet, "Sheshavatar Bhagwan Laxman ki pawan nagri Lucknow mein aapka swagat aur abhinandan." The tweet has led to speculations of a name change for the state capital.
Agra, June 5 : Almost three decades after the Supreme Court announced a series of measures to insulate the Taj Mahal from environmental degradation, the question that continues to do rounds in "green" circles, and often asked by visitors: has the Mughal monuments become safe from air and water pollution? International concern was first raised in the 1970s when the decision to site India's biggest oil refinery at Mathura was taken by the Indira Gandhi government. The PIL filed by eco lawyer M.C. Mehta in the apex court triggered a series of drastic measures to contain environmental pollution in the eco-sensitive Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ), spread over 10,400 sq km.

As the city celebrates World Environment Day on Sunday, local activists say there has been no fundamental change in the environmental conditions in Agra, Mathura, Firozabad districts that come under the TTZ.

Green activists say that water and air pollution levels continue to remain alarming.

Officially, we are made to believe that a dozen odd directives of the Supreme Court, on the recommendations of the Dr S. Varadarajan high powered committee, have had salutary effects on the environment in Agra and neighbourhood, the ground "reality is vastly different", as would be clear by a close study of the data released by the state pollution control board.

"Air, water, noise pollution levels are alarmingly high, as high as they were in 1993, when the judgement came," says environmentalist Devashish Bhattacharya.

The local petha industry continues to spit fire, smoke and pollutants in the air, right in the heart of the city. Despite repeated complaints at various government offices and regulatory institutions, no action is taken against hundreds of polluters in the city, Bhattacharya added.

High level of noxious gases, suspended dust particles, emissions from vehicles, denudation of green cover to construct roads and houses, he said.

Due to high level of pollution in the city, tourism has been "badly hit" and the health of the local population is in "peril", activist Jugal Kishor of the River Connect Campaign said.

He said various recommendations of expert committees were gathering dust and the Supreme Court orders had been blatantly ignored.

In the past, a series of orders came from the apex court. But shifting orders for dairies, dhobi ghats, cremation sites, petha units, have been shelved. Transport companies emitting pollutants on the Yamuna Kinara Road, have not been shifted either.

Repeated pleas by environmentalists to free the Yamuna banks of encroachment have fallen on deaf ears.

The National Green Tribunal has been struggling with its orders on clearing encroachments on Yamuna flood-plains. After years of dilly-dallying even the boundaries of the flood plains have not been clearly demarcated, the campaigners complain.

Forest land in the Soor Sarovar area has been reduced as groups of vested interests managed to secure land for developing commercial activities. Local green activists have lamented the "apathy of elected Vidhan Sabha and Lok Sabha members towards the Yamuna, the lifeline of the city".

A dry and polluted Yamuna remains a constant threat to the safety of the Taj Mahal, according to the activists.

"Water in the Yamuna was required for the good health of historical monuments along Yamuna's banks, because the foundations need continuous moisture and a pollution-free ambience," Sonal Singh Mittal of the Braj Mandal Heritage Conservation Society said.

Despite repeated demands, the Yamuna Barrage project, downstream of the Taj Mahal, hangs fire, though some Rs 20 crore have been sanctioned for it in the state's 2022 budget.

Agra's major problem is the dry and heavily polluted Yamuna river. Though there have been repeated demands, no initiative has so far been taken to desilt and dredge the river bed, which had become hard owing to pollutants, mainly leather cuttings, polythene, domestic waste, industrial effluents, preventing seepage and percolation of water.

Environmentalist Chaturbhuj Tiwari said: "Though the Supreme Court had categorically directed ban on entry of cattle in the river and shifting of dhobis (washermen) polluting the river, no effort has been made by the district authorities in this direction." Activists say that despite the tall promises made by leaders, the Yamuna continues to stink, flow polluted carrying all the toxic effluents and waste from Delhi and upstream cities. Forget human beings, even historical monuments including the world heritage monument, the iconic Taj Mahal, along its bank, are not safe as pollutants in the river not only create visual pollution but also endanger the protective eco-ambience in the vicinity.

The local administration claims more than 40 drains out of nearly 100 had been tapped. But the Agra mayor Navin Jain, himself has sounded so helpless and has repeatedly pleaded with the government to take appropriate measures to save Yamuna river.

The problem is two-fold, qualitative and quantitative. One, the river is already dry, just a month after the fairly good monsoon rains this year. Two, what flows down in the river from Delhi is not water, but chemical liquids that kill even bacterias. This toxic liquid is emitting foul and noxious gases and corroding foundations of structures along the banks of the river.

Even after hundreds of petitions, memorandums, representations, demonstrations and democratic protests, successive governments in the state and at the centre, have been pathetically apathetic to demands for de-silting and dredging of river Yamuna in Braj Mandal, says activist and astrologer Pramod Gautam.

"We have been demanding a barrage or a check dam downstream of the Taj Mahal for three decades now, but only promises have been made and no action," Gautam adds.

Tourists who visit the Taj Mahal and other historical monuments are aghast to see the polluted Yamuna. Many even wonder why Mughal emperor Shah Jahan chose this site for constructing his dream project, according to tourist guide Ved Gautam.

Tourism industry leaders say Yamuna's good health is necessary for the safety of the monuments along its banks, in particular the Taj Mahal, whose foundation needs moisture round the year.

Without water the river is becoming a breeding ground for mosquitoes and insects that deposit their green excreta on the surface of the Taj Mahal, every now and then. This needs to be cleaned up periodically.

The biggest threat to the Taj Mahal is the polluted Yamuna which needs cleaning and uninterrupted minimum flow of water to keep it alive. Water in the river will not only enhance esthetics but also absorb pollutants and control the alarming level of dust particles in the ambient air (SPM), president of Lok Swar Rajiv Gupta says.
Bhopal, June 5 : The Bhopal Central Jail has initiated a unique step to make prisoners serving life imprisonment sentence mentally strong, and also make them able to restart life with spiritual thoughts when they eventually come out from jail.

For this purpose, the jail authority with the help of Gayatri Shakti Peeth has started making prisoners 'priests' with an over a month-long training course.

In the first batch of training that began in March-April, nearly 50 jail inmates, who are convicted of serious crimes such as murder, rape, dacoity, kidnapping, have been trained as priests.

Most of them will be out of jail in the next 4-5 years, either due to completion of their conviction period or reduction in their jail term considering their good conduct in the prison.

The second batch of training will start soon and the jail authority is set to initiate the selection process of prisoners for this purpose.

The inmates are selected on the basis of behavioural report, interest, ability of reading and writing and most importantly, their willingness to accept the training.

"Last time, we had prepared a long list of over 500 inmates on the basis of their reports, of which around 150 had cleared written test. However, only 42 of them were selected for training. We are set to start the process of selection of inmates in the next one or two weeks," Dinesh Nargave, Superintendent of Bhopal Central Jail, told IANS.

After the selection process is done, these inmates will be trained for 4-5 hours daily for over a month by the teams of Gayatri Shakti Peeth.

"Most of these inmates either have committed a heinous crime or they belong to poor families who can't afford expensive lawyers to present their cases. Most of such prisoners suffer from depression in jail. It's an effort to make their minds stronger to restart their lives after getting out of jail," Nargave added.

Nargave, who has been the Superintendent of Bhopal Central Jail for over five years now, told IANS that he had implemented this idea for the first time when he was posted at the Shahdol prison a few years back.

"When I was appointed as head of Shahdol district jail, I heard that Gayatri Shakti Peeth provides such services to jail inmates. This idea had worked a lot and therefore when a delegation of Gayatri Sakhti Peeth, Bhopal, came up with this proposal, I asked them to conduct training at the jail premises," Nargave added.

For the priest training course, the inmates were given eight to 10 religious books with mantras. They were taught three subjects -- Karmkand, Sangeet and Boudhik -- between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. by eight teachers.

In Karmkand, they were taught various ways of performing puja for occasions such as death, birth, marriage, Griha Pravesh etc., as per Hindu rituals.

In the Sangeet class, they were taught about the use of traditional instruments like 'dafli' and others, including tone and tenor of singing bhajans (devotional songs) and how to properly recite mantras.

"We prepare them (prisoners) for training step-by-step. First, we encourage them for narrating stories from religious and historical books. Once they start showing interest, we take further steps to encourage them to chant mantras and shlokas," said Ramesh Nagar, a member of Gayatri Shakti Peeth, who was one of the trainers.

The Bhopal Central Jail at present has 3,605 prisoners, including 11 convicted under NSA.
Kabul, June 5 : The Taliban-led government in Afghanistan has denied a UN report that claimed possible escalation of fighting among armed groups in the country, saying that Kabul is is not "facing any imminent or possible threat".

The report compiled by UN experts said the presence of the Islamic State (IS), Al Qaeda, and "many other terrorist groups and fighters on Afghan soil" is raising concerns in neighbouring countries and the wider international community, TOLO News reported.

It further said that neither the IS or Al Qaeda "is believed to be capable of mounting international attacks before 2023 at the earliest, regardless of their intent or of whether the Taliban acts to restrain them".

"Taliban are starting to see the National Resistance Front challenge fading while recognizing IS-K (Khorasan) as a more long-term and serious threat," the report added.

Responding to the report, Taliban's deputy spokesman Inamullah Samangani said that armed groups have been suppressed in recent months in the country.

"The Islamic Emirate is not facing any imminent or possible threat of the armed groups. The Islamic Emirate has been successful in suppressing many groups and terrorists. It is providing security all over the country," Tolo News quoted Samangani as saying.
San Francisco, June 5 : Two days after reportedly emailing employees of a 10 per cent job cut at Tesla, CEO Elon Musk on Sunday retracted his statements saying total headcounts will increase.

However, Musk also noted that the number of salaried people may not change.

An unverified Twitter account by the name Whole Mars Catalog tweeted that headcount in the Tesla company will increase in the coming year.

"Over the next 12 months Tesla's headcount will increase." To this Musk replied: "Total headcount will increase, but salaried should be fairly flat"

A Reuters report said on Friday that Musk has emailed Tesla executives, telling them the electric car-maker needs to pause hiring worldwide and cut its workforce by about 10 per cent.

Tesla has nearly 1 lakh employees worldwide and Musk cites his "super bad feeling" about the economy for reducing the workforce.

Musk is also facing a "crypto winter" and his favourite cryptocurrency Dogecoin has seen its value dip by nearly 60 per cent over the last six months.

Earlier this week, Musk gave an ultimatum to Tesla employees to either return to office or get out, saying they "should pretend to work somewhere else" if they disagree with the company's policy.

He sent a series of emails that asked employees to come back to the office or be terminated.

"Anyone who wishes to do remote work must be in the office for a minimum (and I mean minimum) of 40 hours per week or depart Tesla. This is less than we ask of factory workers," Musk wrote, reports Electrek.

Despite supply chain challenges and factory shutdown in China, Tesla earned $3.3 billion profit in the first quarter this year, registering $18.7 billion in revenue.

In the first quarter, Tesla produced more than 305,000 vehicles and delivered more than 310,000 vehicles.
Doha/New Delhi, June 5 (UNI) Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, who is visiting Qatar, on Sunday held talks with the Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani, during which the two sides reviewed bilateral relations, including trade, investment, and security cooperation.

Vice President Naidu, who arrived on Saturday, met with Qatars Shura Council and will be attending a business forum alongside an Indian business delegation and a delegation from the Qatar Chamber later on Sunday.

PM & Minister of Interior of Qatar, Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani received VP @MVenkaiahNaidu at Amiri Diwan in Doha.

Both sides held delegation level talks & reviewed bilateral relations including trade, investment, economic & security cooperation, the MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi tweeted.

Ambassador of India to Qatar Deepak Mittal said the delegation accompanying the Vice-President includes Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Bharati Pravin Pawar and three members of the parliament, Sushil Kumar Modi, Vijay Pal Singh Tomar and P Ravindhranath and other senior officials.

About 35 member-business delegation is also part of the visit of Vice-President. The members represent Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) and others.

The Ambassador said that Vice President will also participate in a business forum which will be attended by business delegations from India and Qatar. Minister of Commerce and Industry of Qatar and representatives from Qatar Chamber and Qatar Businessmen Association are expected to join the forum.

He said that Vice President will visit the National Museum of Qatar and the Qatar Foundation. A community reception will be held where Vice-President will address the members of the diverse Indian expatriate community in Qatar including prominent members, senior community leaders, businesspersons, students, teachers, fishermen and blue-collar workers.

The Ambassador said that Qatar and India are enjoying very strong friendly relationship with deep historical connection dating back to pearl trade times.

There are people-to-people contacts. Today nearly 750,000 Indians have made Qatar their second home contributing actively to the development of Qatar, he said.

Mittal said the multifaceted cooperation between the two sides has witnessed significant growth in economic, energy, investment, education, defence, and cultural ties. Bilateral trade crossed $15bn in fiscal year 2021-22 showing very strong movement. Qatari is also looking for greater investment opportunities in India.

The Ambassador said that the visit will provide a platform to discuss how to take new steps to further deepen the partnership in different areas. Qatar and India have a very strong partnership in various fields such as education.

A number of Indian schools are operating in Qatar. First Indian University had opened in Qatar. There are discussions to open more institutions of higher education in the country, said the Ambassador.

UNI RN
Here is a guide to the week ahead for you. This is your forecast for June 6-12: Aries

This week, you will be motivated and energised to realise your ambitions, which will bring you happiness. You will have the strength and vitality essential to combat or recover from any ailment that has been plaguing you for a long period. This is also a favourable time for outperforming your competitors and achieving success in legal matters. Professionally, your efforts will be recognised and your relationships with your superiors will develop, leading to advancement. Financial institutions or banks may be able to aid entrepreneurs in effectively expanding their enterprises through loans. On a personal level, it is a favourable time to initiate new relationships.

Tip of the week: Channelise your positive energy Taurus

This week, you will be able to execute your ideas with remarkable precision and authority, leading to professional advancement. Your communication and presentation abilities will improve, and you will be able to face challenges and pressures with great resolve, enhancing your professional reputation. However, those of you working in the public sector may experience an unexpected transfer or change in job profile. This period may be somewhat discouraging for businesspeople, as they may not achieve the required profit. On a personal level, your father's health may deteriorate, creating tension within the family. Your relationship with your spouse may be strained by ego conflicts.

Tip of the week: Focus on relationships Gemini

This week, it is recommended that you monitor your words when dealing with superiors and subordinates at work, since any miscommunication might damage your reputation. Continuation of the heavy workload is probable, which will increase your mental strain. Unanticipated travel may exacerbate existing problems. Businesses are encouraged to be cautious with their investments, and land and property-related matters may take time to bear fruit. On a personal level, avoid being impolite with your family members and refrain from having a dominant demeanour in order to maintain a harmonious atmosphere.

Tip of the week: Avoid miscommunication Cancer

This is a time of enjoyment, advancement, and success, as your efforts are likely to bear fruit. This week, you will likely experience career advancement. Some of you may also receive long-overdue promotions or salary increases. Businesspeople are likely to conclude lucrative transactions and agreements. Any excursions performed at this time will result in favourable outcomes. You will be able to spend quality time with your significant other or spouse, which will deepen your relationship. Your relatives and family members will respect your efforts to maintain family unity and value you accordingly. Now is a fantastic time to experiment with new exercise and food regimens.

Tip of the week: Plan a trip Leo

During this week, you should be mindful of your temperament and communication, as it could lead to conflicts with family and friends. Those who are employed may experience workplace modifications or transfers. Those whose business is structured as a partnership may have difficulties with their partners. This is not an appropriate time for investing, and crucial decisions should be deferred. However, you may receive unexpected benefits from problems involving inherited property. Regarding their personal lives, single natives have a good chance of meeting someone special. A couple may go on an adventure vacation.

Tip of the week: Avoid taking investment decisions Virgo

You may have exhaustion at work, which can make it harder to concentrate and reduce your productivity. Therefore, you should attempt to increase your performance by focusing on this area. It is possible for businesspeople to encounter unfavourable outcomes and lack of collaboration from partners or subordinates. Also, avoid making rash financial judgments; else, you could incur enormous losses. In terms of your personal life, you must keep your wrath under control, as it can lead to conflicts with your loved ones. Students will excel in their respective fields of study. Some of you may experience a health deterioration and have recurrent headache.

Tip of the week: Be wary of mental exhaustion Libra

You may experience periods of low confidence, which can hinder your productivity and effectiveness. However, with hard work and commitment, you will be able to surpass your competition. Some of you may undoubtedly have the opportunity to travel abroad for business and professional reasons. It is possible for employed natives to experience unexpected occurrences, such as transfers. If you are involved in a legal case, you should refrain from making any decisions at this time. You are cautioned to be prudent with your spending, since certain unnecessary expenses may develop a hole in your wallet.

Tip of the week: Avoid legal tangles Scorpio

This is a favourable time for you, and the stars will assist you in achieving your goals. Professionally, you are likely to earn from a variety of sources, which will assist you in advancing your standing. You will be able to form new relationships that will prove to be beneficial in the long term. Now, projects that were placed on hold for an extended period of time will gain impetus. Your relationship with your superiors will continue to be friendly, and you will receive their support. In addition, there are indicators of a property purchase. Those in committed relationships will experience easy sailing as harmony will prevail.

Tip of the week: Look to invest in property Sagittarius

This week, you will feel compelled to contribute to society in some way, which will enhance your social standing. This phase will provide excellent results professionally. You will be able to complete each and every project you start, allowing you to gain authority and influence. You are likely to receive recognition and advancement at work, and you will also have positive relationships with your superiors. Those of you who work in government will obtain excellent outcomes. Those of you who wish to convert your passions and abilities into a vocation may also enjoy favourable results during this time. You will receive assistance from your siblings on a personal level.

Tip of the week: Contribute to social causes Capricorn

This week, you will be presented with new options to improve your income and amass money. Professionally, you may face some rivalry in your place of employment, but if you exert persistent effort, you will achieve success. Entrepreneurs are likely to obtain the anticipated results and cash flow. You may encounter an influential person who will add a new depth to your life. On a personal level, your family will provide you with support and affection. You may also engage in religious activities that will boost your level of satisfaction. However, your father's health may continue to deteriorate, so take care of him. Regarding your own health, guard against seasonal infection.

Tip of the week: Keep opponents at bay Aquarius

Slow progress, unanticipated changes, and not achieving the desired results for your efforts at work can erode your confidence and foster self-doubt. But this will provide a solid basis for the future, so have faith in your potential, develop your abilities, and maintain a positive outlook. You can be somewhat aggressive in your communication at times, which might create an uncomfortable work environment. Additionally, this is an unfavourable time for any type of investment, as losses are possible. Businesspeople should base their decisions on the available resources. On the personal front, your partner will provide assistance. This time is conducive to self-reflection.

Tip of the week: Have faith in your potential Pisces

This week, you must use genuine effort to get the required outcomes at work. A misunderstanding with your superiors can hinder your advancement at work. Those in business partnerships may have conflict with their business partner. Additionally, this is not an ideal time to initiate any new businesses, partnerships, or joint ventures. Those of you who operate in import-export or for multinational corporations are likely to obtain favourable results. Your expenses may increase monetarily. Your relationship with your partner may continue to be strained. Therefore, you should avoid arguments. Some of you may experience romantic rejection.

Tip of the week: Be cautious in partnerships (Neeraj Dhankher is an Astrologer with proficiency in Vedic, KP and Nadi Astrology. He is Founder and CEO of Astro Zindagi. The observations are made by the writer based on his own analysis)
At the core of India's foreign policy under Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the mandate that bilateral relations with all would be based on mutual security and economic interests, and that this principle would also be extended to multi-lateral cooperation wherever required -- provided that all such pacts would be in consonance with the cause of world peace.

Sequentially, security will always come before economic interest but what Modi's approach to international relations has achieved is to establish that economic development inherently served the security agenda as well.

In a world given to ruthless politics of one-upmanship, it can be said that Prime Minister Modi has been able to strike the chord of Indian philosophy of 'Sarvajan Hitaya, Sarvajan Sukhaya' while handling the affairs of the nation. This can come only from a leader of personal integrity, total devotion to public cause and a nurtural outlook.

The good news is that the merit of India's policy is already showing up on various fronts -- India-US relations marking the natural friendship between the two largest democracies of the world, India's crucial stand of positive non-alignment on Ukraine-Russia military confrontation based on an understanding of the national concerns on both sides, and the prominent role of Modi at the recent Quad summit in Tokyo where the concept of security-development interface - rather than security and economic growth as separate dimensions - became centre stage at the global level for the first time.

Prime Minister Modi always projected Quad as an instrument for promoting 'rules based order' in the Indo-Pacific and as a forum for enhancing mutual cooperation among the countries of the region - even as India joined this powerful group of democratic nations of the world to oppose the aggressive designs of China in that maritime zone.

From India's point of view, this was also like establishing an early barrier to any hostile activity of the Chinese in the Indian Ocean. India, however, wanted the security cooperation under Quad to be reinforced by a more effective economic participation among the countries of the region to counter the Chinese attempt to dominate them.

The signing of the agreement on May 24 in Tokyo in the presence of US President Joe Biden for launching the Indo Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) involving nine other countries of the region besides the Quad members, is an affirmation of the Indian approach to the pathway of economic friendships for global peace and development and an answer of the democratic world to the dictatorships of the times.

The unusually strong denunciation by China of this US-led move for strengthening economic cooperation in the Indo- Pacific is an admission by the former that this development would effectively stall the Chinese strategy of using the economic route to achieving a political sway here.

Prime Minister Modi underscored the positive character of the all-embracing Indian strategy when he emphasised that 'despite the adverse situation of Covid-19, we have increased our coordination for vaccine delivery, climate action, supply chain resilience, disaster response, economic cooperation and other areas'. This according to him 'had helped to establish peace, prosperity and stability in the Indo-Pacific'.

It is remarkable that the Tokyo summit did not allow the Ukraine-Russia military conflict to cast its shadow on Quad's primary mission of countering an expansionist China in the Indo- Pacific. The joint statement of the leaders, issued after the summit on May 24, reiterated their steadfast resolve to work for a free and open Indo-Pacific that was inclusive and resilient but it also enlarged the forum's ambit by declaring that 'Quad is a force for good committed to bringing tangible benefits for the region' and keeping the latter free from 'all forms of military, economic and political coercion'.

Noting that the participants were 'responding in their own ways' to the conflict in Ukraine and the ongoing humanitarian crisis there, the statement revealed that the impact of these events on Indo- Pacific was assessed and that the leaders were all in favour of giving priority to maintenance of peace and stability in the region.

The Tokyo summit expanded the scope of economic cooperation in the region by defining the future strategy on issues ranging from economic recovery in individual countries to the collaboration on development of critical technologies.

The leaders even gave thought to the ways and means of strengthening the capacities of the countries in the region to cope with the debt issue and appreciated the meetings held by development finance institutions and agencies of the Quad partners to better connect the Indo- Pacific.

The summit planned to work for deepening collaboration in identified areas such as regional and digital connectivity, clean energy and climate including disaster resilience in energy related facilities, in the interest of sustainable and inclusive growth in the region.

It took note of how the digital world is getting exposed to sophisticated cyber threats and laid emphasis on a collective approach to enhance cyber security.

The Quad partners decided to coordinate capacity building programmes in the Indo-Pacific under the Quad Cybersecurity Partnership. They pledged to focus on harnessing emerging technologies for the prosperity and security of the region.

Cooperation on 5G supplier diversification was highlighted and joint efforts to leverage complementary strengths to raise a competitive market for semiconductors and other critical technologies were stressed upon.

In short, the Quad summit has taken the joint endeavour in economic and security spheres of Indo- Pacific to a new level, in line with India's strategic thinking.

The summit declaration echoed the Indian stand that at the centre of international order is the international law, including the UN Charter, that respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states has to be maintained and that all countries must seek peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law.

The stamp of India was clearly visible in the unequivocal castigation of terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms and manifestations, denunciation of the use of terrorist proxies and a categorical condemnation of the 26/11 terrorist attacks in Mumbai and the Pathankot airbase attack in 2016.

The statement demanded that the Afghan territory must never be used again to threaten or attack any country or to shelter and train terrorists. A total India-US convergence on terrorism was in evidence in Tokyo.

Quad leaders also recorded their appreciation of the pioneering role of India in production and distribution of Covid vaccine under the Quad Vaccination Initiative.

The importance of economic development besides security cooperation was highlighted through the specific mention of 'shared effort to build infrastructure that was essential for driving productivity and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region'.

Quad is apparently adopting a strategy to counter the Chinese game plan of building its hold on the region through economic pacts.

The Tokyo summit became a new landmark in Indo-US relations. President Biden seemed to have put the focus back on China amid the Ukraine-Russia conflict when he emphasised that 'Quad is not just a passing fad but it means business'.

He attacked Russia for its invasion of Ukraine - saying it is trying to extinguish a culture - and made out that Ukraine was not just a European issue but a global one but without making any India specific comment, urged the group to make a greater effort 'to stop Vladimir Putin's aggression'.

Biden, in fact, was extremely enthusiastic about meeting Prime Minister Modi 'again in person' - he remarked that Indo-US friendship had entered a new chapter and that Indo-US ties will be among 'the closest on the earth'.

Modi described India's relationship with the US as 'truly a partnership of trust' and said he is confident that this friendship will continue to be a force promoting global peace and stability.

President Biden profusely praised India's democratic functioning and bracketed India with the US in providing leadership to the democratic world against the menace of dictatorships and autocracies.

Prime Minister Modi's handling of international relations is working exceptionally well for India. It will add to the standing and prestige of India if it offers the services of interlocutors in mediating for peaceful negotiations between Ukraine and Russia under the auspices of the UN.

(The writer is a former Director of Intelligence Bureau. The views expressed are personal)
Kiev, June 5 : Ukrainian authorities have said that more than 200 civilians killed by Russian troops in the Kiev region are yet to be identified.

In a statement late Saturday, the Interior Ministry said: "Ukrainians who were shot and tortured by the Russians are still being found in Kiev Oblast. As of today, over 1,300 bodies of civilians have been exhumed.

"After investigations at the burial site had been completed, the bodies were sent to the morgue, where they underwent forensic examinations.

"However, more than 200 people are yet to be identified." According to the Kiev Region Police, a total of 1,314 bodies have been found since the war erupted on February 24, reports Ukrayinska Pravda.

In early April, the Defence Forces of Ukraine liberated the Kiev region from the Russian forces.

Latest updates on Russia-Ukraine War
Chennai, June 5 : In a bid to go green, Public sector Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) of Tamil Nadu will be setting up 900 e-charging stations in the state with Indian Oil Corporation, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation and Bharat Petroleum Corporation taking the lead.

Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) has 133 e-charging stations in Tamil Nadu and is planning to install 400 more e-stations by the end of this financial year. Hindustan Petroleum Corporation (HPC) will be setting up 175 more e-charging stations from the 79 it has now.

Bharat Petroleum Corporation (BPCL) will be installing 145 more e-charging stations by the end of this financial year.

The Oil Marketing Corporation officials told IANS that they are planning to create a demand for electric vehicles as an increase in the number of e-charging stations would increase the number of electric vehicle users.

An official with the Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) while speaking to IANS said, "Presently the e-charging stations in the state highways attached with the fuel stations are getting only a handful of recharging, but with the increase in the number of e-charging stations, we are confident that the people will buy more electric vehicles as the availability of charging stations will help people recharge their batteries during the travel." Oil Marketing Company sources also said that the investment is expensive with around Rs 1 crore investment required per charging station. There are fast charging stations that are deployed at highways to cater to those travellers who need fast recharging during a long trip. Slow recharging is conducted in city-based charging stations.

However, the prices are not very nominal and not much profitable and the prices are presently fixed by individual dealers of the fuel outlets. The e-charging station owners want the government to provide more subsidies to those who buy e-vehicles as this would increase the carbon footprint and thereby increase the environmental conditions.

A senior official with an Oil Marketing Company while speaking to IANS said, "On this June 5, which is celebrated as World Environment Day, there should be a pledge that more sops are provided to the buyers of e-vehicles to increase its sales and thereby reducing pollution."
Toronto, June 5 : Though pro-Khalistan elements today account for a very small fraction of the Sikh community in Canada, they still wield outsized influence in community affairs as highlighted by this episode.

In December 2018 when a Canadian intelligence report mentioned threats of pro-Khalistani elements to India from Canadian soil, various groups raised a hue and cry over the use of the word 'Sikh' in it.

The then Minister for Public Safety, Ralph Goodale, had to bow to their pressure and order the removal of the word 'Sikh', saying that the terminology was never intended to encompass or malign the entire community.

And what did that report say about the radical Sikh elements in Canada? It read, "Some individuals (the changed word) in Canada continue to support violent means to establish an independent state within India. These violent activities have fallen since their height during the 1982-1993 period when individuals and groups conducted numerous terrorist attacks. The 1985 Air India bombing, which killed 331 people, remains the deadliest terrorist plot ever launched in Canada." The report added, "While attacks around the world in support of this (pro-Khalistan) movement have declined, support for the extreme ideologies of such groups remains. For example, in Canada, two organisations, Babbar Khalsa International and the International Sikh Youth Federation, have been identified as being associated with terrorism and remain as listed terrorist entities under the Criminal Code." Indeed, the pillar of support for Khalistani groups is their control of the major gurdwaras in Canada.

"These radical groups control gurdwaras so that they can control the community's narrative. That's what is happening here. Yes, they are fringe groups, but they are very powerful and control the agenda," says Toronto-based veteran Punjabi journalist Balraj Deol.

"The Khalistan movement has no future in India. It is being kept alive from abroad. However, these groups can harm India in many ways -- by targeting people and causing disruptions," he adds.

He says occasions such as the anniversary of Operation Blue Star at the Golden Temple in Amritsar in June 1984 provide these radical groups the chance rally support by taking out parades and displaying Khalistani flags and floats.

"So powerful is the grip of these fringe groups on the community that the silent majority doesn't count. There are no leaders willing to give statements on their activities," says Deol.

A Brampton Punjabi, who doesn't wish to be identified, says, "From controlling major gurdwaras, these fringe groups have gone on to create lobbies in all political parties at federal and provincial levels in Canada. Politicians listen to them because they can deliver them votes en bloc." These radical groups have not only created lobbies but also planted their own people in various national and provincial political parties, adds Deol.

"They have their men in all major parties. Not only federal and provincial political parties, they also have their supporters even in city councils now. You can call them soft Khalistanis because they are not open about their loyalties," he sayd.

Because of the connections of pro-Khalistan groups with Canadian political parties, Deol says, there cannot be good relations between India and Canada.

Community activist Gurdev Singh Mann of Brampton says the support that the Khalistani cause enjoyed in the past is waning.

"Of course, various Khalistani groups carry on with the propagation of their ideology, but by and large people are moving away from it. Only very few get influenced. People are not interested in it," says Mann.

How does he see the future of the Khalistani movement in Canada? "A few in the younger generation are buying into it, but as I said, its influence is decreasing. I am not sure how much some foreign agencies are mixed up with Khalistani radicals in Canada now," he says.

Ujjal Dosanjh, the former Premier of British Columbia and bitter opponent of Khalistani ideology, refused to comment on the current activities of these groups in Canada.

"I don't want to give oxygen to them as I am busy with my writing work," he said.

Many in the Indo-Canadian community have criticised the Indian government's decision in 2019 to delete the names of many Canada-based radicals from its blacklist.

They say the Narendra Modi government's decision was politically motivated and has done little to appease these groups.
New Delhi, June 5 : With increased awareness of the environmental impact of travel, sustainability and conservation have become increasingly important among travellers. New Zealand invites visitors to become kaitiakitanga, or place guardians.

Assuring that it is maintained and treated in such a way that future generations can enjoy it. The Tiaki Promise, an initiative launched by Tourism New Zealand and close partners, invites and encourages visitors to care for the country alongside Kiwis.

Many businesses in New Zealand's tourism sector are already implementing sustainable practises. Here are the top four New Zealand tourism businesses with conservation at their core, whether they are carbon-neutral, carbon-positive, or simply doing amazing things for the environment: Carino Wildlife Cruises, Northland

The World Cetacean Alliance (the world's largest marine conservation partnership) has awarded Carino the only Responsible Whale Watching Certificate in the Bay of Islands. They provide a variety of cruises for guests to enjoy and be inspired by the natural environment. They actively collaborate on conservation and research efforts with a number of research universities. Carino also organises beach clean-ups on a regular basis and uses biodegradable or non-toxic cleaning products. They also use wind power whenever possible and have started a local tree-planting programme.

Ziptrek Ecotours, Queenstown In 2019, Ziptrek Ecotours became the first company in Queenstown to achieve Zero Carbon Business status. Some of their community and environmental initiatives include planting 5000+ trees, shrubs, and grass on its zipline site at Gondola Hill and around the local area over the last ten years through the Wakatipu Reforestation Trust, sponsoring Paper4Trees, a waste minimisation and native tree planting programme for NZ schools and preschools, and more.

Dive! Tutukaka, Northland Dive Tutukaka is based at the Tutukk Marina in the Bay of Islands and focuses on the Poor Knights Islands. It is New Zealand's largest dive charter company, transporting over 12,000 people to the Poor Knights Islands each year on five boats.

The company has received numerous national and international awards for its environmental and business practises, and it was a finalist in the 100 per cent Pure New Zealand Experience Awards in 2021. This company was a key player in advocating for the exclusion of recreational fishing from the marine reserve, and every tourist who books with the company helps to preserve the beautiful Poor Knights Islands.

Kaitiaki Adventures, Rotorua Kaitiaki Adventures is a well-known adventure tourism company that specialises in white-water rafting and sledging on the Okere section of the historic Kaituna River. Because of their priorities in sustainable tourism, Mori prosperity, and environmental wellbeing, they won a Qualmark 100 per cent Pure New Zealand Experience Award in 2021.

Management of wilding pines, guardianship of Mt Tarawera, protection of the endangered Dabchick in collaboration with DOC, and maintaining a 100 per cent zero waste business operation are all conservation projects.

(IANSlife can be contacted at IANSlife@ians.in)
Thiruvananthapuram, June 5 : Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has said that the state would approach the Union government for relaxation in the eco-sensitive zone matter. The Supreme Court had on June 3 ordered that at least 1 km of eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) from forest land be maintained. However, the court order said that the minimum width of ESZ can be diluted in overwhelming public response but for that, the state should approach the Central empowered committee and the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF), Government of India.

Addressing a public programme at Kannur on the World Environment Day, the Chief Minister said that the state will approach the Ministry of Environment and the Government of India for relaxation on the ESZ in Kerala.

He said that the population density in these areas is high and that the Government cannot turn its back on the woes of the people. Vijayan said that the state government is also contemplating to approach the Supreme Court and fight the case legally.

Meanwhile, state forest minister A.K. Saseendran after a high-level meeting of forest and environment department officials said that the state would present its case to the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) and would explore options to convince the Supreme Court on the situation in Kerala.

It may be noted that around 1 lakh families in 20 towns of Kerala will be affected by the order of the Supreme Court. There are 24 wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in Kerala and providing 1 km of eco-sensitive zone around all these forests would take 2.5 lakh acres of human habitation. The population density in Kerala is 860 people per square km while at the national level it is 360 people per square km.

Political parties and farmers' movements in Kerala have also opposed the order and want the state government to implead in the case in the Supreme Court and also put pressure on the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests.

Speaking to IANS, Rajesh Nair, a farmer from Idukki, said, "The order has to be challenged and the state government implead in the Supreme Court. We have to also present our case with the Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India to prevent this."
Washington, June 5 : At least three people were killed and 11 others injured during a shooting spree in the US city of Philadelphia, authorities said on Sunday.

The incident took place in 200 block of South Street just before midnight on Saturday.

Police on patrol heard numerous gunshots and saw several active shooters firing into a crowd, 6abc Philadelphia News quoted a top police official as saying to the media on Sunday morning.

At least two guns were recovered from the scene, the official said, adding that one of them had an extended magazine.

Numerous shell casing were found along the 200 and 300 blocks, he said.

According to the police official, the victims comprised two men and a woman and they suffered multiple gunshot wounds.

The identities of the victims and the injured persons have not been disclosed.

The Philadelphia incident follows several high-profile mass shootings across the country.

Ten people were killed at a Buffalo, New York, grocery store on May 14, while 19 children and two teachers were shot dead at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, on May 24.

On June 1, four people were shot and killed at a Tulsa, Oklahoma, medical building, and the next day, three people died in a shooting outside a church in Ames, Iowa.

So far this year, the US has seen at least 233 mass shootings with more than 18,000 deaths due to gun violence, according to the nonprofit organisation Gun Violence Archive.
Tirana, June 5 : Bajram Begaj, who held the post of the Chief of General Staff of the Albanian Armed Forces (AAF), has been elected the country's new President of Albania, with 78 votes in favour, four against and one abstention.

A total of 103 out of the 140 MPs were present at the beginning of Saturday's Parliament session, but only 83 participated in the voting, reports Xinhua news agency.

The majority of the opposition MPs, including those of the main opposition Democratic Party boycotted the process.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, Rama declared that the ruling Socialist Party (SP) parliamentary group has decided to propose Begaj as the candidate for president.

Following this proposal, Begaj held a meeting with Rama at the Prime Minister's office where he informed Rama that he was honored to be proposed for the post.

On Saturday, in a letter to the media, Begaj announced that he has resigned from his military post as major general in order to pave the way for the lawmakers to continue with the election procedure.

"If Parliament decides today that I will be the next president of the republic, the arrows of my compass in this high task will be the respect for the other and love for the homeland," Begaj said in the letter.

Prior to Saturday's session, the Law Commission accepted and verified the proposal signed by 37 SP lawmakers, which was sent to the parliament on Saturday morning.

On Saturday, outgoing President Ilir Meta signed the decree on Begaj's dismissal as Chief of General Staff of the AAF, as well as the release as an active service in the Armed Forces of Major General Bajram Begaj.

The Albanian Parliament had failed to elect a new president in the first three rounds as no candidates were proposed by any of the parliamentary groups.

According to the country's constitution, a total of 84 votes in favour are needed to elect a proposed candidate as president in the first three rounds and 71 votes in fourth and fifth rounds.

Begaj, 55, will take oath as the new president on July 25 to replace Meta, who will be in office until July 22.
Badaun : , June 5 (IANS) A probe has been ordered against five police personnel who are alleged to have tortured a suspect in a cattle slaughtering case.

The man's mother had alleged that the policemen -- a police outpost in-charge, four constables and two 'unidentified' persons -- had shoved a stick inside her son's rectum and had given him electric shocks.

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) O.P. Singh has directed the circle officer of Dataganj Prem Kumar Thapa to carry out an investigation after the police took the medico-legal report into consideration and claimed they found allegations against the accused to be true.

An FIR has been lodged under sections 342 (wrongful confinement) and 323 (voluntarily causing hurt) of the IPC, along with others.

Superintendent of Police (SP) (city) Praveen Singh Chauhan said, "The allegations against five policemen were found to be true during a preliminary investigation. We have registered an FIR against them for wrongful confinement and torture. Steps are being taken to suspend them and an impartial investigation will be carried out in this case. We are also supporting the family to ensure the best possible treatment for the victim." The victim, who is a part-time vegetable vendor, is presently in hospital and has been suffering repeated seizures.

He was picked up by police on May 2 under suspicion that he may have ties with a gangster who had been booked on multiple occasions under charges of cow slaughter.
The Louisiana Legislature approved a bill that would separate juveniles convicted of crimes within correctional facilities based on risk factors. For example, someone convicted of a crime of violence would be kept someone found guilty of a property crime. (Canva image)

The Legislature passed a bill that would sort juveniles convicted of crimes into risk categories that could be used to segregate high-risk youth in secure facilities.

Senate Bill 323, sponsored by state Sen. Heather Cloud, R-Turkey Creek, would require the state Department of Public Safety and Corrections to adopt rules that would sort juveniles into low, medium and high-risk categories based on medical, educational and psychological assessments.

The bill was approved on an 82-11 vote.

It comes after a series of escapes and violent actions at the states youth correctional facilities.

When the bill came up in committee in May, Cloud said that under current policies, a 20-year-old convicted of a violent crime could be sleeping in the same dormitory as a 14-year-old convicted of property crimes.

As a parent, that should activate us and should greatly concern us, Cloud said.

The bill was supported by the Louisiana Office of Juvenile Justice.

This is the future of juvenile justice, William Sommers, deputy secretary of the office said last month. I believe that this tiered system gives us the ability to classify kids in a safe manner.

The bill was carried on the House floor by Rep. Daryl Deshotel, R-Hessmer.

Rep. Michael Echols, R-Monroe, proposed an amendment to the bill that would prohibit facilities within 100 feet of neighborhoods, elementary schools or daycare centers from housing high-risk juveniles.

Echols was challenged on the amendment by Rep. John Stefanski, R-Crowley, who wanted to know how many facilities met this requirement. Stefanski pointed out that such neighborhoods were abundant throughout the state.

Echols pointed to a facility in Monroe that was near a school but could not provide any more information about other facilities that fell into that category. Echols withdrew the amendment.

Discussion of the bill was briefly sidetracked when two Democrats, Reps. Patrick Jefferson of Homer and Sam Jenkins of Shreveport, questioned why an assessment was appropriate for youth in the criminal justice system but not appropriate for youth in schools.

Moments beforehand, the House killed Senate Bill 256, sponsored by Rep. Regina Barrow, D-Baton Rouge, which would require behavioral assessments for students before they are suspended or expelled from school. The bill aimed to discover and mitigate problems that could lead students to crime.

Jenkins ultimately voted for Clouds bill. Jefferson, who carried the bill for Barrow, opposed the measure.

The bill now goes to the governor for action.

The post Louisiana Legislature signs off on tiered system for convicted juveniles appeared first on Louisiana Illuminator.
New Delhi, June 5 : A vast majority of Indians seem to be of the opinion that the environment is in danger and it is a serious issue.

This opinion cuts across educational, socio economic and ethnic identities. These findings were revealed by a nationwide survey conducted by CVoter on behalf of IANS find out what ordinary Indians think about issues related to the environment as the world marks the Environment Day on June 5.

Overall, close to 60 per cent of the respondents stated that the environment is in very serious danger while another 15 per cent were of the opinion that it is in some danger. In effect, 3 out of 4 Indians are convinced that the environment is imperilled. In sharp contrast, less than 10 per cent of the residents felt that the issue of environmental degradation is exaggerated.

This opinion was shared by virtually all sections of Indian society. While 61 per cent of those aged between 18 and 24 felt the environment was in serious danger, close to 56 per cent of those aged above 55 felt the same.

About 61 per cent of Dalits or scheduled castes and the same ratio of upper caste Hindus asserted that the environment was in serious danger.

Except scheduled tribes, more than 50 per cent of respondents in every category were firmly of the opinion that the environment was in serious danger.

The concerns about the status of the environment increased as one moved up on the educational and income ladder. While 52.3 per cent of the poorly educated felt the environment was in serious danger, more than 75 per cent of university or college graduates felt the same.

Similarly, while 55.6 per cent of low income respondents affirmed that the environment was in serious danger, 65.5 per cent of those in the higher income group shared the same opinion. It is rare for so many Indians to agree with each other on such a contentious and controversial issue.
Colombo, June 5 : Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on Sunday informed Russian authorities that the grounding of an Aeroflot passenger plane with 200 people on board at the Colombo airport, was because of a private lawsuit and not due to an issue between the two countries.

Wickremesinghe conveyed this information via the Secretary of the Foreign Ministry, while the Justice Minister has directed to expedite the case.

In a statement, the Ministry said "this matter is under consultation through normal diplomatic channels", adding that it was still pending final determination of the court.

Amidst diplomatic tension, the Attorney General's Department is working to call the case on Monday before Wednesday, the scheduled date of the hearing, in order speed up the case, legal sources told IANS.

Meanwhile, Cabinet Minister Dinesh Gunawardena has urged authorities to resolve the issue soon before it causes major damage to the bilateral ties.

However Russia was quick to protest over the grounding of the Aeroflot flight on June 2 and suspended all commercial flights to Colombo.

The Russian Foreign Ministry had also summoned the Sri Lankan envoy in Moscow to express its strong objection.

"We urged the Sri Lankan side to settle this problem as soon as possible to avoid its negative impact on traditionally friendly bilateral relations," Foreign Ministry had told Sri Lanka, Ambassador Janitha A. Liyanage, as per Russian media reports.

The Russian-operated Aeroflot Airbus SU 289 landed at the Colombo airport on June 2 with 191 passengers and 13 crew members on board. The plane was stopped from leaving for Moscow following a court order obtained by Irish aircraft leasing company, Celestial Aviation Trading.

The court order to ground the plane was obtained over a commercial dispute with the Irish company which has leased the aircraft to Aeroflot.

The passengers and the crew were taken to hotels.

Aeroflot officials informed Sri Lanka that the grounding came at a time when the island nation has given a state guarantee to Russia that its aircraft could be flown to the country.

With the invasion of Ukraine in February 24, amidst severe sanctions by the West, Aeroflot had suspended all international flights in March.

However Sri Lanka, with diplomatic and economic ties with Russia, resumed operations to Colombo from April onwards.

According to tourism figures, Russia makes up for leading international arrivals with 16 per cent all foreign holiday makers to the island nation.

The cash-strapped Sri Lanka is also awaiting fuel from Russia with a 90,000-tonne consignment to restart the country's only oil refinery which came to a halt on March 25 as there was no fuel to operate it.
New Delhi, June 5 : Delhi Police and the Uttar Pradesh Police in a joint operation recovered three girls, including two minors, from the national capital, an official said on Sunday.

According to the official, the three girls were reportedly kidnapped from Gagua in Uttar Pradesh's Gorakhpur district. The UP Police personnel from the Gagua police station arrived in Delhi's Mandawali police station to trace them.

"Only clue in the present case was the mobile location," Deputy Commissioner of Police, Priyanka Kashyap said.

Subsequently a police team was constituted which started searching in the area of West Vinod Nagar.

CCTV cameras at different locations in the area were also checked and the footage were analysed.

"With the help of local public and informers ultimately all the three girls were traced to a house in West Vinod Nagar," the senior official said.

She said that the owner lived somewhere else and clues about the accused behind the kidnapping have also been found.

Further probe is on, the official added.
New York, June 5 : Companies whose CEOs possess Machiavellian traits such as sneakiness, cunningness, and lack of a moral code are able to save more, suggests a study.

Despite ample evidence that dark personality traits pose financial and managerial risks to organisations, traits such as narcissism, psychopathy and machiavellianism are ubiquitous among CEOs.

Their prevalence on corporate boards - nearly three times the general population - suggests that, on some levels, anti-social behaviour may benefit business management.

The study, published in the Strategic Management Journal, showed that companies with Machiavellian CEOs have a net income savings of over 6.6 per cent on firm costs. Negotiating important firm costs is fundamental, and has significant impact on organisations.

"Highly Machiavellian personalities consistently excel in situations that are stressful, uncertain, unstructured and have a high degree of face-to-face interaction - all of which are commiserate with the CEO position and high-level negotiations," said Federico Aime, a management professor at Oklahoma State University.

To determine CEOs higher on the Machiavellian scale (high Machs), the team aggregated public video of 198 CEOs at S&P 500 firms. Trained psychology professionals then evaluated the videos using an established scale for Machiavellianism.

The study found that companies with Machiavellian CEOs paid 12.11 per cent lower acquisition premiums, representing approximately $157 million or 3.6 per cent of the average deal.

Companies with high Mach CEOs also paid $101.19 million less on goods sold and $35.8 million less on debt interest, representing a total of 6.6 per cent savings on the average company's net income.

The researchers explained that high Mach expectations and cultural norms filtered down to bargaining performance on production and financial costs.

"It should be no surprise that CEOs with a Machiavellian focus on bargaining pay less on acquisition premiums," said co-author Aaron D. Hill.

"Machiavellianism can drive CEOs to gather more bargaining information because their inherent distrust, to leverage social interactions and coalitions, and to manipulate others allow them to win." The team noted that while high Mach CEOs seem to lower company costs, this might not outweigh the risks of the personality trait. Yet, they said there may also be unexplored benefits to Machiavellianism for CEOs.
Lucknow, June 5 : Uttar Pradesh will soon cross the milestone of administering 33 crore total vaccine doses.

This will be another milestone as Uttar Pradesh continues to conduct one of the most successful vaccination campaigns in the country since the rollout of the mass immunisation drive.

According to the government spokesman, Uttar Pradesh has so far given out over 32.91 crore total vaccine doses. Out of these, over 17,45,04,444 are first doses, while over 15,14,32,772 individuals are fully vaccinated.

So far, over 2,47,91,010 vaccine doses have been administered to children in the age group of 15-17 and over 1,07,57,191 vaccine doses have been administered to children in the age group of 12-14 in the state.

In terms of percentage, nearly 93 per cent of the adult population is fully vaccinated and 100 per cent have received one vaccine dose.

In the age category of 15-17, over 98 per cent of the children have received at least one dose of the vaccine. While over 77 per cent in this age category is fully vaccinated.

Uttar Pradesh started administering booster shots (precaution dose) from January 10.

Over 31.96 lakh 'precaution doses' have been administered in the state so far.

To speed up the vaccination drive for children in the state, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has also asked the concerned officials to ensure adequate availability of vaccine doses in the state and encourage the eligible children to take the vaccine cover.

The government is also paying special attention to the provision of booster shots (precaution dose) to the eligible beneficiaries.
Sant Kabir Nagar : , June 5 (IANS) President Ram Nath Kovind on Sunday said that the life of the mystic poet and saint Kabir was an epitome of human virtue and that his teachings are relevant even in modern times.

Inaugurating the Sant Kabir Academy and Research Centre here, the President paid homage to the Bhakti Movement saint at his Samadhi Sthal in Maghar. He also offered 'chadar' at his 'mazaar' (mausoleum) and planted a sapling in the premises of the Kabir Chaura Dham.

"The life of Kabir is an epitome of human virtue and his teachings are relevant today even after 650 years. Kabir's life was an ideal example of communal solidarity," Kovind said.

"Kabir emphasised that humanity can only be served by having an attitude of affection towards the downtrodden. He did not get a formal education but acquired knowledge by his experiences in the company of saints. His teachings had shaken the conscience of the fragmented society." The President said it was necessary to awaken the society which was divided on the lines of caste and creed.

Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath were present on the occasion. The President also wished Adityanath on his 50th birthday.

The President will address a joint session of the state Legislature in Lucknow on Monday, the last day of his visit to Uttar Pradesh.
London, June 5 : Women with a genetic abnormality in their cancer given a new gene drug, combined with hormone therapy, improved their survival rate, according to trial results.

The results, published in the Lancet Oncology journal, showed the breast cancer patients who were given Capivasertib, developed by AstraZeneca, survived almost twice as long than those given the standard treatment alone, BBC reported.

"There has never been a trial targeting this genetic pathway in breast cancer that has an overall survival advantage like this - it's really quite extraordinary," Prof Rob Jones, of Velindre Cancer Centre and Cardiff University, was quoted as saying.

"When a patient is diagnosed with metastatic cancer (a cancer that has spread), the most important question for the patient is 'how long have I got? Am I going to see my grandchildren grow up?' "We're not able to offer a cure - but we are buying people additional really important time they can spend with their families and friends," Jones said.

Capivasertib is a leading targeted inhibitor of the cancer-driving protein AKT, also known as PKB. The protein is a key node in a signalling network that becomes dysregulated in a range of cancers and helps to drive the disease.

For patients who are diagnosed with incurable cancer, hormone treatment can help, but often patients become resistant to it, primarily due to AKT protein.

The trial included 140 patients from 19 UK hospitals, and compared the effectiveness of capivasertib, which inhibits AKT activity, combined with fulvestrant, a current hormone treatment, against a placebo with fulvestrant.

The results showed patients with some common mutations in their cancer, 55 per cent of women on the trial, could expect to live for 39 months after being given the drug, compared with 20 months for those in the control group, given the hormone and a placebo, the report said.

Further, the women without one of these mutations did not see a significant increase in survival, meaning the therapy can be targeted at those most likely to benefit.

"What we always want to do with cancer patients is to give them the treatment that suits them best,a Jones said.

"We're moving more and more towards genomic profiling, working out which patients will benefit, and this trial has been very successful in picking out those patients."
Shimla, June 5 : The central government has decided to stop single-use plastic from July 1, which the Himachal Pradesh is also going to implement, Additional Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena said on Sunday.

Saxena was speaking during the Environment Excellence Award distribution function organised by the State Environment, Science and Technology Department and Himachal Pradesh Council for Science Technology and Environment (HIMCOSTE) on World Environment Day.

On the occasion, Prabodh Saxena said that Himachal Pradesh is very conscious about environmental protection and the state government is also taking steps for it from time to time. "Himachal Pradesh is the first state in the country to ban plastic envelopes. From July 1, the state government will also completely ban single use plastic and people's cooperation has been sought," he added.

On World Environment Day, HIMCOSTE also organised a cycle rally which was flagged off by Urban Development Minister Suresh Bhardwaj. This time World Environment Day is celebrated with the theme of 'Only One Earth'. Different programmes have been organised in Himachal Pradesh on World Environment Day.
Geneva, June 5 : The World Health Organisation (WHO) on Sunday said it has been reported of 780 laboratory confirmed cases of monkeypox from 27 countries that are not endemic to the monkeypox virus.

This represents an increase of 523 laboratory confirmed cases (+203 per cent) since May 29, when a total of 257 cases were reported.

However, there have been no deaths associated with the current monkeypox outbreak.

While epidemiological investigations are ongoing, the global health body said most reported cases so far have been presented through sexual health or other health services in primary or secondary health care facilities, and have involved mainly, but not exclusively, men who have sex with men (MSM).

But, monkeypox is not a sexually transmitted disease. The virus can spread through any kind of sustained skin-to-skin contact with an infected person who has a lesion. It can also spread through body fluids, contaminated bed sheets and clothing, or respiratory droplets if a person has a lesion in their mouth.

"Since May 13, 2022, and as of June 2, 2022, 780 laboratory confirmed cases of monkeypox have been reported to or identified by WHO from 27 Member States across four WHO regions that are not endemic for monkeypox virus," the WHO said in a statement.

So far, the West African clade of the virus has been identified from samples of cases. And most confirmed cases reported travel to countries in Europe and North America, rather than West or Central Africa where the monkeypox virus is endemic.

"The confirmation of monkeypox in persons who have not travelled to an endemic area is atypical, and even one case of monkeypox in a non-endemic country is considered an outbreak," the WHO said.

The WHO noted that the "sudden and unexpected appearance of monkeypox simultaneously in several non-endemic countries suggests that there might have been undetected transmission for some unknown duration of time".

Scientists also agree to the theory that the monkeypox virus may have been quietly circulating for years before its sudden emergence worldwide.

"There may have been undetected transmission for a while," said Dr. Rosamund Lewis, the WHO technical lead for monkeypox during a recent briefing. "What we don't know is how long that may have been. We don't know if it's weeks, months or possibly a couple of years."

Latest updates on Monkeypox Virus Outbreak
New Delhi, June 5 : Hours after it denounced insult of any religious personalities, the BJP on Sunday suspended party spokespersons Nupur Sharma and Naveen Kumar Jindal for their comments on Prophet Muhammad.

Sharma is party national spokesperson and Jindal is spokesperson and head of media department of BJP Delhi unit. In a letter to Sharma, member secretary, BJP Central Disciplinary Committee, Om Pathak said, "You have expressed views contrary to the Party's position on various matters, which is in clear violation of Rule 10 (a) of constitution of the Bharatiya Janata Party." "I have been directed to convey to you that pending further inquiry, you are suspended from the party and from your responsibilities/assignments if any, with immediate effect," Pathak added.

In another letter to Jindal, Delhi BJP president Adesh Gupta said, "The view expressed by you on social media to incite communal disharmony is against the basic thought of the party. You worked against party ideology and policy. Therefore, your primary membership of the party is canceled with immediate effect and you're also suspended from the party." Gupta told IANS that there is no place for indiscipline in the party and no one is allowed to cross the party line. "It has come to our notice that Jindal has crossed the party line and tried to spread hatred and communal disharmony through his social media posts. We have cancelled his primary membership," Gupta said.

Earlier in the day in a press statement, BJP national general secretary, Arun Singh said, "During thousands of years of the history of India, every religion has blossomed and flourished. The Bharatiya Janata Party respects all religions. The BJP strongly denounces insults of any religious personality of any religion. The Bharatiya Janata Party is also strongly against any ideology which insults or demeans any sect or religion. The BJP does not promote such people or philosophy." Singh noted that India's Constitution gives the right to every citizen to practice any religion of his/her choice and to honour and respect every religion. "As India celebrates 75th year of its Independence, we are committed to making India a great country where all are equal and everyone lives with dignity, where all are committed to India's unity and integrity, where all enjoy the fruits of growth and development," Singh said.

Several FIRs have been filed against BJP national spokesperson Sharma in Maharashtra and violent clash erupted in Kanpur on June 3 after her remarks on Prophet Muhammad during a TV debate.

Jindal also made insulting comment against Prophet Muhammad on social media.
Surendranagar, June 5 : At least four persons were injured in a clash - which also saw firing - between two upper class groups in Surendranagar district of Gujarat's Saurashtra region on Sunday, police said.

The clash was reported in Sudamda village of the Sayla taluka of the district.

The injured were taken to the district hospital in Surendranagar, and one who was in critical condition was rushed to Ahmedabad civil hospital for treatment.

Superintendent of Police Haresh Dudhat, with his team, rushed to Sudamda village and brought the situation under control.

According to a villager, the clash broke out over a dispute on passing through a road between two to three fields.

The field owner's family from the Kathi community stopped others from passing through their field and even beat up those who did. As the news spread, people from the Bharwad community, armed with sticks, sickles and other sharp weapons, reached the farm and attacked the family.

The Bharwad community group also attacked a house nearby and broke vehicles parked there.

As the police were informed, a team from the Sayla police station and then from neighbouring police station, the local Crime Branch and Special Operation Group were rushed to the spot. The situation was brought under control and the mob was dispersed, the SP said.

"We have received complaints of private firing, that is being investigated and weapon will be searched for... few people from the mob are being rounded up and their verification is going on. Once completed, they will be officially arrested. Injured persons were rushed to the district government hospital, their condition is stable." Registering of an FIR is under process and it seems there will be cross-complaints in the case. Police is likely to invoke rioting sections along with others and even for attempt to murder, said police sources.
For devoted readers, or those who pick up books for the sake of reading and not just to while away time, there can never be too many books. Yet, even the most devoted adherent can overlook works that are of special interest to them, given the vast amount of material available in every conceivable genre.

The reason for this is not too difficult to fathom -- books are written by people for the enjoyment and edification of other people, and given the inter-connection of the human experience, something or the other is going to strike a chord with someone somewhere.

Be it, say a cross-generational, cross-cultural romance set in pre-WWII Singapore, a 'ripped from the headlines' thriller reprising a Daniel Pearl-like situation in Karachi, a tale of political or criminal chicanery set in some forgotten corner of Europe, or sub-Saharan Africa, or a darkly comic look at a big or small historic episode, through the eyes of an anti-hero, or more.

Let us look at a handful of books that may defy slotting into particular genres, may have gone unnoticed, but are compelling and delightful reads. Of course, there is a caveat that reading choices can be very subjective, but then, some of them may click too.

The Mafia has inspired a number of books and movies, the most famous of them being Mario Puzo's "The Godfather" (1969). A contemporary, and less sombre, even rollicking, look is Pulitzer-winning American journalist and author James Earle 'Jimmy' Breslin's "The Gang That Couldn't Shoot Straight" (1969; filmed in 1971 with Robert DeNiro).

Based superficially on the life of New York mobster Joey Gallo aka "Crazy Joe", it is the story of Kid Sally Palumbo, a long-loyal operative of the Brooklyn Mafia and skilled in murder, which brings him to the attention of the local top Mafia boss, Baccala, but his vocation doesn't get him the money and respect he craves. Also because, his mental skills are negligible -- "Baccala was of the opinion that Kid Sally Palumbo couldn't run a gas station at a profit even if he stole the customers' cars." To keep Sally from stirring up trouble, the boss offers him an easy assignment -- organise a bicycle race through Brooklyn, and keep the profits.The result: A messy turf war that quickly engulfs the borough and which the usually complaisant police cannot ignore. And yes, there is a lion there somewhere too.

The quips are hard to stop evoking laughter -- say, "Raymond the Wolf passed away in his sleep one night from natural causes; his heart stopped beating when the three men who slipped into his bedroom stuck knives in it." There are plenty more like that. And the caricatures and unsuccessful love story round it off.

More serious, but no less compelling is French-Lebanese writer Amin Maalouf's historical fiction "Samarkand" (1988 French, 1994 English).

This combines a depiction of 11th-century Persia and Central Asia, where poet-astronomer Omar Khayyam is trying to compile his celebrated "Rubaiyat" and early 20th-century Iran, where a young and a bit impetuous American named Benjamin Omar Lesage is trying to get his hands on the work's original manuscript and gets involved in the 1905 Revolution.

Adding flavour to the work are Khayyam's interactions with historical personages like the Seljuk Vizier, Nizam al-Mulk, and Hassan al-Sabbah, founder of the feared Order of the Assassins, and his love affair with a female poet of the titular city. The modern part deals with the American's own view of Persian culture and history and his bittersweet romance.

Lesage ultimately achieves his aim and sends his valuable package home -- only he picks the Titanic.

Espionage, with all its twists and turns and layers and layers of deceptions, is a difficult genre to pull off -- even for those who have had first-hand experience of it. There is no shortage of books, however -- Dan Fesperman's "The Double Game" (2012) gives an extensive list, or old and new authors who are not that well known -- Geoffrey Davison, Desmond Cory, Adam Diment, Kenneth Benton, Alan Williams, and more.

British novelist Gavin Scott is also a filmmaker and writer of the Emmy-winning mini-series "Mists of Avalon", Dreamworks' "Small Soldiers", and after moving to the US, he tied up with George Lucas to develop and script "The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles". We are however concerned with his Duncan Forrester series.

"The Age of Treachery" (2016), set in Oxford a year after the end of WWII, has former Special Operations Executive Agent Duncan Forrester seeking to resume his academic career, but the atmosphere at his college becomes tense when a much-disliked don is found murdered in the quadrangle and his colleague and friend is the prime accused.

Our hero, whose PTSD is still to be quelled, jumps in to save him and must navigate lost Viking sagas, Satanic rituals and wartime espionage in his quest.

What elevates this is some cameos by academic colleague J.R.R. Tolkien, concerned over his first "Lord of the Rings" manuscript, a helpful ex-colleague-turned-journalist (and budding author) Ian Fleming, and the toxic atmosphere of ambition and extremism as the Cold War dawns even as Nazism remains to be extirpated.

If you happen to like this, Forrester returns in "The Age of Olympus" (2017), set in Greece heading towards civil war, and "The Age of Exodus" (2018), set in 1947, where Britain comes to terms with the loss of its empire, a grisly murder in the British Museum, and terrorists targeting a senior minister make for a compelling read.

"Moghul Buffet/Murder in Peshawar" (2003) by researcher and analyst Cheryl Barnard, who also happens to be wife of top US diplomat Zalmay Khalilzad, is another book that is difficult to categorise.

At face value, it tells of an American businessman going missing from a Peshawar hotel, leaving just a cryptic blood-smeared message and believed murdered. As his sister comes there from the US to uncover his fate, there is a string of other murders, including those of a a prominent local businessman and fundamentalist cleric.

An upright police officer is despatched from Islamabad to get to the bottom of what is going on, and his demure wife, and her hotwire woman journalist friend accompany him, while in Peshawar, an enigmatic high-society woman, a lovelorn student, an abused woman, and so on, round up the scene.

Technically a mystery, it is also a black comic look at modern Pakistani society, including its complicated gender roles and relations, the way it interacts with the West, and of course, the birth of the Taliban.

On a different genre and continent is British-born, Australia-settled journalist-turned-writer Nicholas Drayson's ingenious but endearing love story-cum-zoological caper "A Guide to the Birds of East Africa" (2008), featuring a Nairobi businessman, Mr Malik, and his family and friends.

The short, slightly overweight, balding middle-aged widower develops a crush on the leader of his Tuesday morning bird-walk and intends to invite her to his club's annual ball, but a rival -- a former schoolmate -- unexpectedly surfaces and has the same aim. To resolve the issue, members of their club devise a unique wager -- and ensure plenty of misadventures for both in the scenic Kenyan countryside, with not-so-pleasant political intrigues to keep the reader engrossed.

You can see what Malik and his family and friends get up to next in "A Guide To Beasts of East Africa" (2012), where his planning of his club's annual safari is hit by a series of strange crimes, which puts its very existence at risk.

It is up to him and his friends to unravel this tangle, as well as an age-old murder, recover the club mascot and identify, finally, the most dangerous beast in Africa.

Try any of these -- they can be quite enticing! (Vikas Datta can be contacted at vikas.d@ians.in)
New Delhi, June 5 : Gangster Lawrence Bishnoi has told Delhi Police Special Cell about the hideout and names of the arms suppliers, who are based in Punjab, Haryana, Uttrakhand and Rajasthan. Police suspect these suppliers could be the ones who helped the killer of Sidhu Moosewala -- one being headed by Ranjeet, resident of Faridkot, another Vijay, a resident of Haryana-Rajasthan Border and one more is Raka.

On Sunday, Bishnoi was produced before Patiala House Court which remanded him to police custody for five more days.

"The Delhi Police didn't mention the Sidhu Singh Moosewala case in their remand application. But he was remanded to five more days police custody," said advocate Vishal Chopra, the counsel of Bishnoi.

The sources have, however, claimed that the arms suppliers whose names have come up during the course of investigation, could be the same who supplied arms to the killer of Moosewala.

"Mukesh alias Puneet and Om alias Shakti and Harvinder of Jitender Gogi gang were held by us in April. They have told us that one Raka supplied them illegal weapons. Rohit alias Moi and Dinesh Karala who are handling Gogi gang, had helped them in procuring arms. Efforts were made to trace the source of weapon but so far no success," said a source.

Police then arrested Rohit alias Moi and interrogated him after which he broke down and disclosed that he along with other leading faction of the gang had provided weapons to Mukesh, Shakti and Harvinder through Raka after taking weapons from Lawrence Bishnoi.

An official said, "Bishnoi knows the actual source of weapons. Bishnoi knows whereabouts of Raka in areas of Delhi, Haryana, UP and Uttrakhand." "We then arrested Bishnoi who was already in Tihar in another case. Bishnoi corroborated the disclosure statement made by accused Rohit and stated that he had supplied the weapons through Ranjeet who lives in Faridkot and Vijay who lives on Haryana-Rajasthan Border. Police staff have been sent to multiple locations in Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand in search of the co-accused. Bishnoi also disclosed that suspect Vijay brings arms and ammunition from jodhpur, Rajasthan," the official said.
Amritsar, June 5 : Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Sunday paid obeisance at the holiest of Sikh shrines, Harmandir Sahib, popularly known as Golden Temple here, and prayed to the almighty for the peace, progress and prosperity in the state.

"I bowed my head in reverence to Guru Granth Sahib and prayed that my government's every action should be aimed at making Punjab a frontrunner state in the county and well-being of its people," he said after paying obeisance at sanctum sanctorum.

The Chief Minister said Harmandir Sahib and Sri Akal Takht Sahib have since long remained a source of both worldly and spiritual powers. He said not only the Sikhs but every Punjabi derive power from this land blessed by the great gurus.

Mann prayed that the ethos of communal harmony, peace and brotherhood are strengthened in the state with every passing day and Punjab leads the country in every sphere.

The Chief Minister said the people of state have given such a whopping mandate to his government, so he had paid reverence at this divine place to seek blessings of the almighty to fulfil all aspirations of people.

He later had a detailed meeting with Akal Takht Jathedar, Giani Harpreet Singh.

During the deliberations, they discussed the social and religious issues being confronted by the state. Mann and the Jathedar also discussed issues pertaining to more involvement of the youth for putting the state on a high growth trajectory, a government statement said.
New Delhi, June 5 : The first meeting of the group which will oversee the 'Bharat Jodo' padyatra of the Congress party from Kanyakumari to Kashmir took place here on Sunday. The meeting was attended by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and others.

Sources say that a broad outline has been chalked out for the program.

Senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh tweeted, "The first meeting of the Central Planning Group for Bharat Jodo Yatra took place today. The Kanyakumari to Kashmir yatra will start on October 2 and planning for it began in right earnest. Rahul Gandhi also attended the meeting." The yatra which will start from Kanyakumari and end in Kashmir will pass through at least 12 states. In these states the party will reach out to like-minded groups and political parties. The Congress' Bharat Jodo Yatra will try to take along like-minded political forces and NGOs working in social sectors, sources said.

On May 15, Congress president Sonia Gandhi announced that the party will embark on a "Bharat Jodo" pad yatra from October 2, the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, and will also set a task force for internal reforms within a week.

"We will launch a national Kanyakumari to Kashmir Bharat Jodo Yatra on Gandhi Jayanti this year. All of us will participate in it. The Yatra is to strengthen the bonds of social harmony that are under stress, to preserve the foundational values of our Constitution that are under assault, and to highlight the day-to-day concerns of crores of our people," Gandhi had said.
Doha/New Delhi, June 5 : Vice President M. Venkiah Naidu, who is on a visit to Qatar, met its Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani at Amiri Diwan on Sunday and assessed the developments in bilateral relations, an official statement said.

They also agreed to further strengthen their historic friendship in all areas, the MEA statement said.

Both sides expressed satisfaction at the continued engagement at the highest levels between both countries since the landmark visits of Qatar's Amir to India in 2015 and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Qatar in 2016.

They agreed that high level engagement should be sustained, including through an early visit of Qatar's Amir to India. Both sides also looked forward to the convening of the Joint Commission between the two sides, at the Foreign Minister level, later this year and also agreed to promote bilateral parliamentary exchanges.

India has close and friendly relations with Qatar and the commitment to deepen multifaceted bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, energy, food security, defence, technology, culture, education, health, media, and people to people contacts.

Naidu thanked the Qatari leadership for taking great care of the Indian community.

In a meeting earlier of Sunday, Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani recalled the historic relations between both countries which are based on mutual trust and appreciated the contribution of the Indian community in his country's development of Qatar. An understanding has been reached to set up an ICCR Chair of Indian studies at Qatar University.

Both sides expressed strong commitment to further enhance bilateral trade and investment cooperation. Naidu has invited the Qatari side to explore the significant opportunities in a range of sectors including infrastructure, connectivity both physical and digital, energy, defence and hospitality.

Qatar also invited Indian entities to look for opportunities in sectors like education, pharmaceuticals and healthcare. Both sides discussed the impact of recent global developments on food and energy security and renewed their long-term commitment to energy partnership. Naidu alslo assured the Qatari leadership of India's assistance in meeting Qatar's food security.

Qatar's FDI in India is in excess of $450 million and there is great potential for increasing these investments. Invest India and Investment Promotion Agency of Qatar have reached an understanding on cooperation to promote two-way investments between both countries.
Panchkula, June 5 : Daughter of a tea stall vendor, Kajol Sargar's only connection with sport until three years ago was her daily visits to a local gymnasium to watch her elder brother Sanket train as a weightlifter.

The 16-year-old from Sangli in Maharashtra also watched in awe as he steadily rose up the ranks to become one of India's top lifters; but that didn't inspire her enough to take up the sport.

All that changed in 2019, when she saw Rupa Hangandi, also from Sangli, clinching the gold medal in the Khelo India Youth Games in Pune.

"My brother is more than five years older than me. I never really talked sport with him before," Kajol Sargar said after becoming the first gold medallist in the Khelo India Youth Games 2021 here on Sunday.

"It was only after learning about Rupa Hangandi's success in the Khelo India Youth Games that I felt that I should also try weightlifting," she revealed.

Kajol, who now trains under Mayur Sinhasane, lifted a total of 113 kg in the women's 40kg category to kick-off Maharashtra's march towards the top of the medal's tally.

Kajol only managed 50kg in snatch in her third attempt to fall behind Assam's Rekhamoni Gogoi, who lifted two kilograms more going into clean and jerk.

But she lifted 60kg and 63kg in the clean and jerk to jump to the top of the podium. Rekhamoni (109 kg; 52kg snatch, 57kg clean and jerk) slipped to third as Arunachal Pradesh's Sandiya Gungli bagged the silver with a total of 111 kg (47kg snatch, 63kg clean and jerk).

Kajol had won a bronze medal in the Youth Nationals in August 2021 in Patiala but a wrist injury earlier this year forced her to rework her targets for the year.

"I was trying to lift 70kg during training and got hurt. I was out of action for over two months and even missed out on the Nationals in Bhubaneswar in March. This title is an important milestone in my three-year journey and would inspire me to work harder," she added.
Kyiv, June 5 : Russia launched airstrikes on Kyiv for the first time in five weeks on Sunday, claiming it had destroyed western-supplied tanks - while Russian President, Vladimir Putin, warned more targets would be struck if weapons deliveries continued, media reports said.

Several explosions were heard around the eastern Kyiv suburbs of Darnytskyi and Dniprovskyi early on Sunday morning, wounding one person. The strikes represented a change of tack on the part of the invading forces, The Guardian reported.

Russia's Ministry of Defence said the strikes had destroyed T-72 tanks that had been provided to Ukraine by European countries that were being stored in the buildings of a car repair business, although the claim could not immediately be verified, The Guardian reported.

Kyiv's Mayor, Vitali Klitschko, said "one victim was hospitalised" in the incident. Sergei Leshchenko, a member of the Ukrainian railway company's supervisory board, added that its facilities had been struck.

They were the first bombing raids on any part of the capital since the end of April and appear to represent an attempt to strike supply lines from Kyiv to the east, where both sides are embroiled an intense battle for control of Donbas.

Perhaps signalling the new approach, Putin told Rossiya state television that Russia would hit fresh targets in Ukraine if the US delivered the longer-range rockets that it had promised to Kyiv last week.

If such missiles were supplied, "we will strike at those targets which we have not yet been hitting", said Putin, who is believed to be closely involved in military decision-making. The Russian leader did not specify what would be struck, although logistics points would be amongst the most logical targets.

Latest updates on Russia-Ukraine War
Moscow, June 5 : Russia will hit targets it has so far not struck if long-range missiles are delivered to Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned.

"If they are supplied, we will draw the appropriate conclusions and use our weapons, which we have enough of, in order to strike at those objects that we have not yet struck," Putin told Russia 1 in an interview.

The Russian president noted that the shipment of US-made multiple-launch rocket systems confirmed by President Joe Biden on Tuesday is unlikely to bring anything new to Kiev's forces, RT reported.

The Ukrainian military already has Soviet- and Russian-designed Grad, Smerch, and Uragan systems of the same kind, he SAID.

Berlin might provide Kiev with submarines, the Ukrainian Parliament's Chairman, Ruslan Stefanchuk, claimed during a visit to Germany amid the ongoing Russian military operation in his country.

Ahead of a meeting with German Defence Minister Christine Lambrecht on Friday, the head of the parliament said the "supply of the most modern equipment to Ukraine" and speedy decision-making on the matter will bring "common victory" over Russia closer.

Stefanchuk expressed hope that IRIS-T surface-to-air missile systems will be promptly delivered to Ukraine.

Latest updates on Russia-Ukraine War

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Islamabad, June 5 : Two audio leaks have revealed that Farah Gogi, a close friend of Imran Khan's wife Bushra Bibi, allegedly demanded a precious diamond gift for the ex-first lady from Malik Riaz's daughter Amber Riaz in return for 'removing locks' on a project site and withdrawing a report against Malik Riaz, Samaa TV reported.

The audiotapes, purportedly the recordings of telephonic conversations between Malik Riaz and Amber Riaz, were aired on Sunday.

The recordings show that Farah Gogi rejected a three-carat diamond sent by Amber Riaz as unworthy and unsuitable for the first lady, who she allegedly said routinely wore such things, and asked for a five-carat diamond.

Gogi chastised Amber for sending only a five-carat diamond ring but promised that in return for a more valuable gift, Imran Khan would reverse measures against the property projects of the tycoon.

Farhat Shahzadi alias Farah Gogi faces NAB cases and allegations of acting as a front-person of Imran Khan, but the former prime minister defended her as 'absolutely innocent' at a press conference on May 1, saying the probe against her was a political vendetta, Samaa TV reported.

The undated phone recordings revolve around an alleged bribe for the de-sealing of a construction site, retraction of a report submitted in court, and issuance of a letter to the property tycoon.
Jammu, June 5 : Police and security forces in a joint operation have arrested one Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) terrorist from Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said on Sunday.

He has been identified as Talib Hussain who "Joined terrorist ranks of HM outfit in 2016 and remained active along with other terrorists of Kishtwar and was instrumental in reviving militancy by way of recruiting youths into militancy," police said.

But later on, due to some squabble with other HM terrorists, he left the group but remained active at large. However, "Kishtwar Police worked meticulously on the leads obtained about his whereabouts and pre-empted his move to affect the revival of militancy in the area as he got arrested after dodging the police and other security agencies for a long time," police said.

Police have registered a case and investigations have been taken up.
Hyderabad, June 5 : Even before Hyderabad could overcome the shock of a gang rape of a teenage girl, the city was jolted by the news of alleged sexual assault on another minor.

An incident of a kidnap and gang rape of a 13-year-old girl came to light on Sunday.

According to police, the incident occurred under the limits of Moghalpura police station in the old city but came to light four days later.

Police have arrested persons for sexually assaulting the minor girl. They have been booked under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Prevention of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

A cab driver kidnapped the girl from Sultan Shahi area by offering her a lift. He took her to Kondurg area in Rangareddy district on the outskirts of Hyderabad. The driver dropped the victim back near her house the next day.

After the girl's parents lodged a complaint, the police took up investigation and arrested cab driver Luqman Ahmed and two others.

The police sent the girl for medical examination and took up the investigation.

This incident came to light a week after the gang rape of a 17-year-old girl in posh Jubilee Hills area in a car. Son of the leader of ruling Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) is among three juveniles and two majors were booked for the crime which was committed on May 28 but came to light last Friday.
Dhaka, June 5 : A massive blaze, followed by a powerful explosion, at a private container depot in Bangladesh's Chittagong district left at least 45 people, including nine firefighters, dead and injured some 500 others, authorities said on Sunday.

The incident at the BM Container Depot at Keshabpur of Sitakunda sub-district in Chittagong occurred at around 10.45 p.m. (local time) on Saturday. The blast was so powerful that it was heard even four kilometres away and the window glasses of nearby houses was shattered.

Authorities said that within 40 minutes of the raging fire, there was a massive explosion and the blaze spread from one container to the other due to the presence of explosive chemicals.

A 500-metre tin shed at the container depot contained a huge amount of hydrogen peroxide, a local official told media. Besides, various imported and exported goods were also kept in the depot.

Alongside 25 fire service units from Chittagong, Feni, Noakhali and Cumilla, 250 army personnel have been trying to bring the fire under control for over 20 hours, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said.

The army team is working to check the spread of chemicals and also working on checking the extent of chemical leakage from the depot into the bay.

Director General of Fire Service and Civil Defence, Brigadier General Md Moin Uddin said: "A 14-member special team of the fire service from Dhaka has gone to Sitakunda to douse the fire at the container depot. The team is being led by Assistant Director, Training, Monir Hossain. They've already started working there." Chittagong Medical College Hospital Director, Brigadier General Shameem Hasan said a number of injured were discharged after primary treatment while 70 others are undergoing treatment. Four people were admitted in the ICU in the hospital, he added.

As its designated burn unit ran out of space, its gynaecology ward is being used for providing treatment to the injured with patients of the gynaecology ward shifted to other wards, Assistant Registrar Liton Kumar Palit said.

Besides, 2 injured are getting treatment at the ICU at Chittagong General Hospital, its Superintendent Dr Sk Fazle Rabbi told IANS.

Some of the injured were referred to Sheikh Hasina Burn Institute in Dhaka for better treatment on Sunday morning, its coordinator, Professor Dr Samanta Lal Sen told IANS "The three were brought this morning with nearly 14-15 per cent burn injuries. Part of their lungs have also been damaged.They will require ICU support." Meanwhile, most of the missing persons family members are searching for their kin in all wards of the CMCH.

"I couldn't find my husband, Jewel," Jasmine, seen running around the CMCH holding her 3-year-old daughter in one hand and her 8-year-old son in the other in his search, told IANS. She went to the emergency room, then the burns unit, before despairingly running to the morgue. Her husband, Jewel, had been working as an operator at BM Container Depot since 2017 but since the disaster, there has been no trace of him.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina expressed profound shock and sorrow at the loss of lives and injuries.

In her condolence message, she prayed for eternal peace of the departed souls and conveyed deep sympathy to the bereaved family members. She also asked the authorities concerned to take prompt measures for treatment of the injured people. The PM asked her party leaders and activists, alongside the government, to come forward in controlling the fire quickly and taking measures to give all-out support to the affected people.

Mentioning there has been negligence from those who run the BM Container Depot, State Minister for Shipping Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury said a three-member investigation committee has been formed by the Chittagong port authority and asked to submit a report to the ministry within the next three days.

"After receiving the probe report, we will discuss whether a high-level probe body, comprising the National Board of Revenue and the Shipping Ministry, can be formed.

"I personally think the inclusion of NBR in this committee is more important. We just handle the products here. The declaration of the products has to be given to the customs," he said.

Chowdhury added that there is an issue of taking different measures if the depot authorities declared hazardous material stored there.

"It needs to be checked whether such private container depots have the preparations that need to be taken, and whether they have the manpower needed. If so, why didn't they work? They definitely have a system in place, otherwise they wouldn't have been approved. Then why didn't those work? And now there are so many casualties in the fire incident. The investigation will shed light on these," he said.

"At the moment, it is not possible to say exactly what happened here, who is responsible. It can be said after receiving the inquiry report and then we will take action." Of the dead 12 were identified as fireman Moniruzzaman, 32, Mominul Haque, Mohiuddin, Habibur Rahman, Rabiul Alam, Tofael Islam, Faruk Jomadder, Afzal Hossain, Md Sumon, Md Ibrahim, Harun-ur-Rashid, and Md Nayon.
Hyderabad, June 5 : Soon after the BJP on Sunday suspended its spokesperson Nupur Sharma and leader Naveen Kumar Jindal over their derogatory religious comments, TRS Working President K.T. Rama Rao demanded it suspend its Telangana chief Bandi Sanjay Kumar.

"If the BJP truly respects all religions equally, should you also not suspend the Telangana BJP chief who made an open public statement wanting to dig up all the mosques & impose a ban on Urdu?" tweeted Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) leader.

"Why this selective treatment Nadd Ji? Any clarification?," KTR asked BJP President J.P. Nadda.

Bandi Sanjay, who is also a Member of Parliament, has made controversial statements in recent days. Alleging that Muslim rulers in Telangana demolished several temples and built mosques over them, he demanded digging at all mosques, saying there was a possibility of finding Shiva Lingams underneath.

The BJP MP also stated that if the BJP comes to power in Telangana, it will abolish all madrasas, do away with reservation for Muslims and remove Urdu as the second official language.

Meanwhile, another TRS leader Krishank Manne said Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP have put India to shame.

"If only the BJP could hear its own Indians, India wouldn't have to be threatened by Arab. Narendra Modi ji, you should have done this before Arab said boycott India. You and your BJP have put India to Shame Mr. Prime Minister. Late (Prime Minister Atal Bihari) Vajpayee ji would be feeling ashamed of you," tweeted Krishank, who is social media convenor of TRS.

The TRS leader also said that in Indian history, no country ever asked India to apologise. He wrote that because of Narendra Modi and BJP, Qatar is asking the government of India to apologise for the statements. "History will remember this day on how BJP has put India to shame," he said.
MANILA BAY, Jan. 8, 2019 (Xinhua) -- A man massages a tourist during sunset at Manila Bay in Manila, the Philippines, Jan. 8, 2019. Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is trying to get around 876 million U.S. dollars to fund the massive cleanup and Image Source: IANS News

Panaji, June 5 : From Monday (June 6) all illegally operating massage parlours will have to be shut down, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said on Sunday, announcing a strict crackdown on such business in the coastal state.

Action will be initiated against local police inspectors if any massage parlour is open after Monday, he said.

"We will crack down on illegal massages across Goa. We have given permission for a spa, not for massage parlours. Operation of illegal massages will be stopped, even cross massage will not be allowed," Sawant said, after reviewing crime activities in Calangute-North Goa.

He said that police inspectors of respective areas will be held responsible if illegal activities of massages are found taking place. "Action will be taken against police inspectors in such cases," he said.

Reacting to the viral video of prostitution pimp approaching customers, Sawant said that prostitution activities should not run in the state.

"For that police are monitoring and proactive policing is taking place. During the next tourism season, police will keep an eye on such activities in civil clothes," Sawant said.

He said that for any tourism activity police NOC will be made mandatory.

He said that additional police stations at coastal areas will be established and even additional police force and traffic police will be given to them to ensure that crime will not take place in the tourism belt.

Sawant said that police are taking action against narcotics trade. "Crackdown on drugs is the highest in my tenure. Need cooperation from people to give safe beaches," he said.

-IANS sanjay/uk/skp/
New Delhi, June 5: The Pakistani Army's handpicked Tribal Jirga is back in Pakistan after talks with the banned militant organisation Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) or Pakistan Taliban. No breakthrough could be achieved as the TTP was firm on its demand-FATA's de-merger with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. But both sides have decided to continue a protracted dialogue for the next three months.

"We can meet in between and will continue to remain in touch to exchange ideas but the three months' time frame is for us to complete our work within this time period," Dawn quoted one Jirga member as saying.

According to AfPak watchers, the TTP leaders are under pressure from their host Sirajuddin Haqqani - the chief of banned Haqqani Network and the Interior Minister of Taliban, who is also under pressure from the Pakistani Army. Haqqani, who is mediating the peace talks, told the TTP leaders that the Taliban regime had been threatened by the Pakistani Army. "Any attack from this side irks Pakistan, which creates problems for us with our neighbour and such incidents have international ramifications for the Islamic emirate," the member quoted Haqqani as saying.

But the wily Haqqani also made it plain to the Pakistani army that, "We don't want to coerce the TTP. They have waged jihad with us against the Americans and made sacrifices. It would be better that Pakistan and TTP come to terms, after giving each other some concessions." The Pakistani Taliban or TTP has for years used Afghanistan's rugged border regions for hideouts and for staging cross-border attacks into Pakistan and has now been emboldened by the return to power of the Afghan Taliban. The group wants Pakistani government forces to pull out of former tribal regions of the north-western Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province, release all the TTP fighters in government custody, and revoke all the legal cases against them.

Pakistani experts say that FATA was merged into KP through a constitutional amendment, and the old status of the region can be restored constitutionally. "This step is not impossible, but it requires a two-third majority in the National Assembly as well as the KP Assembly. The TTP wants reversal of the merger because they want full control of a region where Pakistan's Constitution does not apply. If this demand is accepted, it would be tantamount to surrendering a part of Pakistan to the Taliban," said Anees Gilani, a Pakistani Supreme Court lawyer.

Though Pakistan's foreign office finally admitted that the military establishment is in talks with the proscribed militant outfit TTP, questions are being raised in Pakistan whether the civilian government headed by the Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was taken into confidence by the Pakistani Army.

"One wonders if the PM Shehbaz and the Foreign Minister Bilawal Zardari Bhutto have any clue as to who has authorized, put together and ferried a jirga - including a federal minister - in a military aircraft to negotiate with the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, on Afghan soil," tweeted Mohammad Taqi, a Pakistani expert.

Many supporters of the TTP have been sharing videos of the group's chief Noor Wali Mehsud moving freely in a convoy in Pakistan's Waziristan region like a victorious leader, claiming that the TTP has forced the Pakistani Army for negotiations.

The TTP and the Pakistani Army has agreed for three months ceasefire and they would not launch a major attack at each other in this period. Nevertheless, Pak watchers say that, "The so-called ceasefire will not last very long. It's a ploy by the TTP to recruit new fighters, re-group and plan new attacks. They want their own emirate in tribal areas. Expect attacks to resume between 4-6 weeks." (The content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative
New Delhi, June 5: In an interesting development in the ongoing military conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Moscow has accused Washington of violating contractual obligations by supplying Mi-17 helicopters to Kyiv which it said were transferred to the United States exclusively for operation in Afghanistan.

As reported by IndiaNarrative.com on Thursday, the latest shipments of US military aid for Ukraine announced on June 1 includes four M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), five counter-artillery radar systems; two air-surveillance radars; 1,000 Javelins and 50 command launch units; 6,000 anti-armour weapons; 15,000 155-mm artillery rounds; four Mi-17 helicopters; 15 tactical vehicles; and additional spare parts and equipment.

Insisting that the move would only delay the prospect of an early peaceful settlement of the conflict in Ukraine, Russia has labelled the delivery of Russian-built military helicopters to Ukraine as "another flagrant violation" by the American side of its international obligations.

"This understanding was legally enshrined in the relevant contract and end user certificate, which states in black and white that the said helicopters should be delivered to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan for its armed forces. Only this way, and nothing else. However, these legal restrictions, as we see, are not an obstacle for Washington in its unbridled desire to pump weapons to Kyiv," said Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova.

The spokesperson detailed that the Russian embassy in Washington had made an official presentation to the US Department of State, "demanding detailed explanations" as to why Mi-17s are being transferred to Ukraine without the knowledge and consent of the exporter, i.e. Russia, and contrary to established diplomatic practice but has received no "clear answer".

"The behaviour of the United States is a blatant example of the policy of "double standards", when Washington fulfills only the agreements that are convenient for it at a particular moment. Not to mention that this obvious violation of international law ultimately contributes to prolonging the conflict in Ukraine," said Zakharova.

According to the US Defence Department, the security assistance committed to Ukraine as of April 21, 2022 includes as many as 16 Mi-17s.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had specifically made a request for Soviet-era military equipment which could be operated easily by the country's military in the ongoing conflict against the Russian defence forces.

"These had been earmarked for Afghanistan... They are coming out of our stocks, our inventory, we have them, we didn't obviously transfer them to Afghanistan. So, we're now transferring them to Ukraine, I would remind that, as you probably remember, we had already provided Ukraine five Mi-17s not long ago. So, this is not the first time that we've given them Mi-17s," Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby said in press briefing in April.

Russia also said on Friday that it believes that the American side is "irresponsibly supplying" long-range missile and artillery systems to Ukraine and justifying this by "allegedly receiving guarantees from Kyiv" that the supplied military aid will not go beyond the borders of Ukraine.

"In general, on the positions of Ukrainian nationalists, one can observe a whole set of foreign artillery, including long-range ones. There are also French Caesars, Polish Krabs, and American M109s. German PzH-2000s and Slovak Zuzans will appear soon. This is a real holiday for Western military concerns on the bones of civilians in this long-suffering land," the Russian foreign ministry spokesperson had commented in a media briefing in Moscow on Friday.

(The content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative

Latest updates on Russia-Ukraine War

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Srinagar, June 5 : Jammu and Kashmir Lt governor, Manoj Sinha said on Sunday that as long as the people of Jammu and Kashmir do not condemn such acts by the militants, things will not become normal in the Union Territory.

While speaking at a function at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar, the Lt governor said, "Peace will only prevail in Jammu and Kashmir when people will come forward and condemn such acts by the militants." "I want to appeal to the people of Jammu and Kashmir to condemn such acts by these militants, so that peace will prevail in Jammu and Kashmir".

Without naming Pakistan, Sinha said that the neighbouring country is hell bent to deteriorate the situation here.

He said the way militancy is being used as a tool against innocent people, it is clear that they want to provoke security forces to do something out of desperation.

"I want to assure the people of Jammu and Kashmir that security forces will never take any action against the innocent people.

"But the policy of J&K administration and security forces is that they will never take any action against innocent civilians", he asserted.
Paris, June 5 : World No 5 Rafael Nadal clinched his 14th French Open title and a record-extending 22nd Grand Slam trophy after beating Casper Ruud 6-3, 6-3, 6-0 in the final of the tournament, here on Sunday.

By earning a 22nd Grand Slam crown, the Spaniard has moved further clear of Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer in the Grand Slam race, with the Serbian and Swiss tied on 20 major titles.

It is the first time Nadal has won the Australian Open and Roland Garros trophies in the same season and he is now level with countryman Carlos Alcaraz on a Tour-leading four titles in 2022 after improving to 112-3 at the clay-court major.

In front of a raucous crowd on Court Philippe Chatrier, the 36-year-old produced an intense and aggressive first-set performance, hitting his forehand with heavy topspin to outmanoeuvre the Norwegian and move ahead.

After making a slow start to the second set, the Spaniard rallied from 1-3 by returning to basics. He hung in points, won the longer exchanges and produced an array of stunning passing shots off both wings to take further control, before racing clear in the third set to secure another memorable victory after two hours and 20 minutes.

Nadal, who will rise to No 4 in the ATP Rankings on Monday, moved past Top 10 stars Felix Auger-Aliassime, Novak Djokovic and Alexander Zverev to set a first ATP Head to Head meeting with World No 8 Ruud.

Following his triumph over the Norwegian, the Spaniard has become the third player to earn four Top 10 wins at a Grand Slam since the ATP Rankings started in 1973. Mats Wilander at Roland Garros in 1982 and Roger Federer at the Australian Open in 2017 also achieved the feat.
San Francisco, June 5 : Tech giant Microsoft has claimed that Teams for Windows 11 is now significantly faster due to improvements in the code.

The company said that when users scroll over the chat list, latency has improved by 11.4 per cent, and scrolling over the channel list has improved by 12.1 per cent.

"Over the past year, we have delivered enhancements to Teams that improve its overall interaction responsiveness time and create a more fluid experience for the user," the company said in a blogpost.

The compose message box loads 63 per cent faster, enabling the user to type a message immediately once they switch into a chat or channel.

The company mentioned that page load times are much shorter as well. The time to switch to a channel and to open a chat window-both were dramatically improved by 25 per cent.

Switching threads in the activity feed have improved by 17.4 per cent. Switching between chat threads has improved by 3.1 per cent.

The mute and unmute audio response during a call improved by 16 per cent and navigating to the aPre-meeting join' screen is 9 per cent faster.
Xi Focus: The green modernization for a beautiful China, world

Xinhua) 09:24, June 05, 2022

Photo taken on July 6, 2019 shows a production line at a subsidiary of Beijing Electric Vehicle Co., Ltd. (BJEV), a new energy vehicle producer, in Huanghua city of Cangzhou, north China's Hebei Province. (Xinhua/Yang Shiyao)

BEIJING, June 4 (Xinhua) -- In 1972, the United Nations designated June 5 as World Environment Day to foster environmental awareness and prompt action. China, the second-largest economy in the world, has celebrated the annual event with solid steps in environmental protection.

Among the latest steps, the country's first specialized law on wetland protection came into force on Wednesday. Earlier this week, an action plan was unveiled to further boost what has already emerged as the world's largest installed wind and solar power capacity in the coming years.

As President Xi Jinping said, China has made "historic, transformative and comprehensive" ecological progress over the past decade. The country is embarking on a journey to a green, beautiful and sustainable future, not only for itself but shared by all human beings.

A BEAUTIFUL CHINA

With frequent smoggy days, serious pollution from factories, and black and smelly rivers, China, while enjoying high economic growth, had suffered from a worsening environment. In 2012, the country contributed 11.5 percent of the global economy but had its energy consumption per unit of gross domestic product (GDP), or energy intensity, 2.5 times the world average.

If the economy develops at the price of the environment -- no safe food, clean water, fresh air and habitable environment -- then such modernization is not what people would desire, Xi said.

Putting ecological protection high on his agenda, the president has led China's arduous efforts to turn the tide.

Tough battles were fought to rein in pollution of air, water and soil, and hard efforts were made to restore eco-systems from mountains to rivers. The "strictest" environmental protection law took effect, and central authorities' inspections on local environmental protection work were launched on a regular basis. Ecological advancement was incorporated into the Constitution in 2018.

Time and again, Xi made field trips, chaired key meetings, and gave important instructions on environmental protection, with his words still inspiring and resonating.

"Lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets." "We should protect the environment like we protect our eyes, and treat the environment like we treat our lives." "Protecting the environment is protecting productivity, and improving the environment is boosting productivity."

In the suburb of Datong, a national coal-producing region in north China's Shanxi Province, a photovoltaic power station generates enough electricity for 34,000 households each year. In a fast-tracked green drive, the city once plagued by severe haze has started to see bluer skies and embrace much healthier development.

The city's change shed light on a national transition to a sustainable development path, under the guidance of Xi's new development philosophy put forward in 2015, which features innovative, coordinated, green, open and shared growth.

Over the past decade, remarkable progress has been made across the country, from bluer skies and clearer lakes to more wild animals reappearing in forests and wetlands.

China's afforested land has accounted for about a quarter of the world's total, and its CO2 emissions per unit of GDP have dropped about 34 percent over the past decade. The country has topped the globe in installed capacity of wind and photovoltaic power and other green energy, and in the production and sales of new energy vehicles.

Aerial photo taken on July 7, 2020 shows a photovoltaic industrial park in Gonghe County of Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in northwest China's Qinghai Province. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang)

A COMMUNITY OF LIFE FOR MAN, NATURE

At the General Debate of the 75th Session of the UN General Assembly in 2020, Xi pledged that China will strive to peak carbon dioxide emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060 -- a much shorter time span than many developed countries would spend.

"Meeting these targets will require tremendous hard work from China. Yet we believe that when the interests of the entire humanity are at stake, China must step forward, take action, and get the job done," he said when addressing the World Economic Forum Virtual Event of the Davos Agenda in 2021.

While pushing for its own green drive, China has been actively contributing to building a beautiful Earth.

In Kenya, the China-financed Garissa solar power plant, the largest solar plant in East and Central Africa, helped facilitate Kenya's quest for green development. The Chilean capital of Santiago has been using electric vehicles from China as part of plans to revamp its public transport system and advance clean mobility.

During the construction of the China-Laos Railway, which connects Kunming in China's Yunnan Province with Lao capital Vientiane, many tunnels were extended and roads replaced by bridges to protect elephant habitats.

Shouldering the environmental responsibility, China has acted as an important participant, contributor and leader in global ecological progress, observers said.

Faced with unprecedented challenges in global environmental governance, the international community needs to come up with unprecedented ambition and action, Xi said when addressing the Leaders Summit on Climate in April last year. "We need to act with a sense of responsibility and unity, and work together to foster a community of life for man and nature."

(Web editor: Hongyu, Bianji)
By Azernews





By Laman Ismayilova

A city tour in Shusha has been organized for over 100 local and foreign representatives.

During the tour, the delegation visited the monuments of the Azerbaijani prominent figures Uzeyir Hajibayli, Khurshidbanu Natavan and Bulbul, Azernews reports citing Trend.

They also visited the Shusha fortress and Bulbul's House-Museum and Jidir Plain.

The Baku Energy Forum kicked off in Azerbaijan on June 1-4.

Taking into account current trends in the energy sector, the Baku Energy Week united three major events under its brand - the 27th Caspian Oil and Gas International Exhibition, the 10th Anniversary Caspian International Energy and Renewable Energy Exhibition, and the Baku Energy Forum.

Around 250 companies from 31 countries including Azerbaijan, Turkiye, UK, Hungary, Germany, Greece, Georgia, Israel, Indonesia and many others took part in the exhibitions and the forum.

The forum brought together key players in the global energy market, executives, and specialists from international companies to discuss current challenges, ways to develop the energy industry, and partnerships.

The Baku Energy Week ended with a session "Path to Zero Emissions: Developing the Green Energy Potential of the Liberated Territories in the Karabakh Region" that took place in Shusha.
Hamirpur, June 5 : With an eye on Assembly elections, Himachal Pradesh BJP is holding executive meeting in Hamirpur on June 6 and June 7.

All preparations for the meeting have been completed and senior office-bearers of the Central and state-level have already reached here for the meeting to chalk out the strategy for the state Assembly elections.

On the first day on June 6, there will be a meeting of the state office-bearers, in which 60 members will participate. After that there will be a meeting of the core committee in which 14 members will participate and on June 7, there will be a meeting of the state executive in which 303 party leaders are expected to participate.

BJP's National Vice President and North Zone in-charge Saudan Singh, who reached Hamirpur for the meeting on Sunday, was given a grand welcome by the party workers.

The meeting will be attended by Union Minister Anurag Thakur, Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, former Chief Ministers Prem Kumar Dhumal and Shanta Kumar, apart from state in-charge Avinash Rai Khanna and co-in-charge Sanjay Tandon.

The meeting is being held to chalk out strategy for the upcoming state elections, called 'Mission Repeat'. Issues of voting empowerment campaign and data digitisation will also be taken up in the meeting.

Preparations for the upcoming assembly elections, strategy and making the mission repeat a success will be the main agenda of the meeting, the party said.
New Delhi, June 5 : Additional Solicitor General S.V. Raju had assured the Supreme Court last month that security of the alleged conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar, currently lodged at the high-security Tihar Jail, will be taken care of, but the latter has alleged that he was yet again assaulted by officials then.

"Despite assurance, Chandrashekhar was assaulted by a policeman in jail on May 13 evening. Thereafter, he was also admitted to the Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital," his lawyer Ashok Singh told IANS.

He said that the court was again informed of the matter, but no urgent hearing was allowed due to its summer vacation.

Chandrashekhar was arrested last year for allegedly cheating and extorting money from some high-profile people, which includes former Fortis Healthcare promoter Shivinder Mohan Singh's wife Aditi Singh. Many women Bollywood actors and models have been questioned by the Enforcement Directorate for their alleged links to Chandrashekhar.

In April, he was arrested in another money laundering case linked to the 2017 Election Commission bribery case, which allegedly involved a former AIADMK leader and others.

Chandrashekhar has, multiple times, claimed a threat to his life inside the prison.In a handwritten complaint lodged at the Hari Nagar Police station on March 9, he had alleged that the jail officials are threatening to kill him if he does not fulfil their demands.

"I face danger.....as the whole jail administration is involved in my ongoing case with EOW," an excerpt from the complaint, accessed by IANS read.

It was yet to be learnt whether any FIR was lodged in the given complaint.

Born in a lower middle-class family in Bengaluru, he always dreamt of being a millionaire and to achieve his wish, he was determined to earn money by hook or by crook. He started conning people from the age of 17.

In 2007, he, posing as a high ranking bureaucrat, duped around 100 people of Rs 75 crore on the pretext of providing them a job. Recently, he also duped politician T.T.V. Dhinakaran of Rs 50 crore.

Delhi Police's Crime Branch arrested him on Dhinakaran's complaint and he was lodged in the Tihar Jail, but continued to run his rackets from inside the prison. He is accused of extorting Rs 200 crore from the family of ex-Fortis Healthcare and Ranbaxy Lab promoters Shivinder and Malvinder Singh within the premises of the prison.

The Delhi Police had, in November 2021, filed a charge sheet against the accused conman, his wife Leena Maria Paul and 12 others in the same case of duping Malvinder Singh's wife of Rs 200 crore.

The Economic Offence Wing (EOW) had written to Tihar Jail authorities to take action against 82 jail officials who allegedly helped him by providing him luxurious facilities inside the prison.

(Ujwal Jalali can be reached at ujwal.j@ians.in)
Aizawl, June 5 : Assam Rifles troopers have seized foreign origin cigarettes, valued at around Rs 2.35 crore in Mizoram after these were smuggled in from Myanmar, officials said on Sunday.

An Assam Rifles official said that acting on a tip off, its personnel seized the foreign origin cigarettes, contained in 78,333 cases, at Khuangphah in eastern Mizoram's Champhai district on Saturday night.

"The foreign origin cigarettes after being smuggled from neighbouring Myanmar were stored in a house. None was arrested in this connection," the official said.

Later the seized cigarettes were handed over to the Custom officials for taking further legal action.

An Assam Rifles statement said: "Ongoing smuggling of foreign origin cigarettes is a major cause of concern for the state of Mizoram, especially along the India-Myanmar Border. Assam Rifles, rightly christened as the 'Sentinels of Northeast' have continued their efforts against the smuggling activities in Mizoram." Besides various harmful drugs, especially heroin, highly-addictive methamphetamine tablets, also commonly known as 'Yaba', poppy seeds, opium, ganja (marijuana), morphine, bottles of cough syrup valued at hundreds of crores, various other contraband like gold, foreign cigarette as well as arms and ammunition are often smuggled from Myanmar to the northeastern states, especially Mizoram and Manipur, along their over 1,600-kn-long unfenced border.
New Delhi/Tehran, June 5 : Weeks ahead of its Foreign Minister's India visit, Tehran has summoned the Indian envoy to its Foreign Ministry over the comments of now expelled and suspended BJP leaders on Prophet Mohammad.

Prior to Iran, Qatar and Kuwait had also summoned Ambassadors of India and handed over them protest notes.

The Indian Embassy in Qatar had already issued a statement, saying that the "Ambassador had a meeting in the Foreign Office in which concerns were raised with regard to some offensive tweets by individuals in India denigrating the religious personality. Ambassador conveyed that the tweets do not, in any manner, reflect the views of the Government of India. These are the views of fringe elements".

The Qatar government, in a statement, said: "State of Qatar welcomed the statement issued by the ruling party in India in which it announced the suspension of the party's official from practicing his activities in the party due to his remarks that angered all Muslims around the world." Noting that Qatar is expecting a public apology and immediate condemnation of these remarks by the Indian government of India, it pointed out "that allowing such Islamophobic remarks to continue without punishment, constitutes a grave danger to the protection of human rights and may lead to further prejudice and marginalisation, which will create a cycle of violence and hate".
Hyderabad, June 5 : Even before Hyderabad could overcome the shock of a gang rape of a teenage girl, the city was jolted by alleged sexual assault on two more minor girls.

The incidents took place on May 30-31 but came to light on Sunday after police announced the details.

In one of the cases, two men sexually assaulted the victim. According to police, a cab driver and his friend committed the rape after taking the girl to their house at Kondurg village in Rangareddy district on the outskirts of Hyderabad.

In the early hours of June 1, police received a complaint from a woman that her sister's daughter was missing from the evening of May 31 from her house in Sultan Shahi area in the old city.

Police said around 5 a.m., patrolling personnel found her in the same area. She was brought to Moghalpura Police Station and sent to Bharosa Centre, where woman police officials recorded her statement.

The victim told police that she had left her aunt's house for a walk to her parents' house. Around 8 p.m. when she was standing near Pahadi Shareef Kaman and wanted to go to Shaheen Nagar, a cab driver lured her by offering to drop at her house. Cab driver Shaik Kaleem Ali (36), however, picked up his friend Luqman Ahemed Yazdani (36) enroute. They took the girl to Luqman's house in Kondurg village, where they sexually assaulted her.

After committing the crime, Kaleem took the victim in his cab and dropped her in the Sultan Shahi area.

Based on the victim's statement, police arrested the accused and sent them to judicial custody. They have been booked under Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 366 (A), 376 (2) (n), 376 DB, 376 AB r/w 34 IPC and section 5 (g) (m) r/w 6 and 9 (m) of Prevention of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

In the second incident, a man raped a minor girl on May 30. The girl, who works as a sales person at a cloth store near Charminar, was returning home when the accused lured her and took her to his house in Langar Houz area and sexually assaulted her. The next day he dropped her at the shop.

On Sunday when the girl complained of stomach pain and her mother enquired about it, she revealed the entire incident. The victim's mother approached Kalapathar Police Station and lodged a complaint against Mohammed Sufiyan (21).

Police booked the accused for kidnapping and rape under section 363 and 376 (2) (n) IPC and Section 5 (1) r/w 6 (1) and (2) of Prevention of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

Police were on the lookout for the accused.

The two incidents came to light a week after the gang rape of a 17-year-old girl in posh Jubilee Hills area in a car. Son of the leader of ruling Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) is among three juveniles and two majors were booked for the crime which was committed on May 28 but came to light last Friday.
New Delhi, June 5 : Delhi on Sunday reported decline in fresh Covid cases in last 24 hours, at 343, against 405 recorded on previous day, and no new death for the third consecutive day, as per the state government health bulletin.

Meanwhile, the Covid positivity rate has slightly dropped to 1.91 per cent and the number of active cases stands at 1,422.

With 388 patients recovering in the last 24 hours, the total number of recoveries has gone to 18,81,096. The number of patients being treated in home isolation stands at 1,016.

With new Covid cases, the total caseload of the city has jumped to 19,08,730, while the death toll continues at 26,212.

The number of Covid containment zones stand at 251 in the city.

A total of 17,917 new tests -- 11,924 RT-PCR and 5,993 Rapid Antigen - were conducted in the last 24 hours, taking the total to 3,86,23,875, while 31,073 vaccines were administered - 3,438 first doses, 11,265 second doses, and 16,370 precaution doses.

The total number of cumulative beneficiaries vaccinated so far stands at 3,43,43,517, according to the health bulletin.
New Delhi, June 5 : Additional Solicitor General S.V. Raju had assured the Supreme Court last month that security of the alleged conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar, currently lodged at the high-security Tihar Jail, will be taken care of, but the latter has alleged that he was 'yet again' assaulted by the prison officials.

"Despite assurance on May 13, Chandrashekhar was assaulted by a policeman in jail on the same day in the evening. Thereafter, he was also admitted to the Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital," his lawyer Ashok Singh told IANS.

He said that the court was again informed of the matter, but no urgent hearing was allowed due to its summer vacation.

Chandrashekhar was arrested last year for allegedly cheating and extorting money from some high-profile people, which includes former Fortis Healthcare promoter Shivinder Mohan Singh's wife Aditi Singh. Many women Bollywood actors and models have been questioned by the Enforcement Directorate for their alleged links to Chandrashekhar.

In April, he was arrested in another money laundering case linked to the 2017 Election Commission bribery case, which allegedly involved a former AIADMK leader and others.

Chandrashekhar has, multiple times, claimed a threat to his life inside the prison. In a handwritten complaint lodged by him, through his lawyer, at the Hari Nagar Police station on March 9, he alleged that the jail officials are threatening to kill him if he does not fulfil their demands.

"I face danger.....as the whole jail administration is involved in my ongoing case with EOW," an excerpt from the complaint, accessed by IANS read.

It was yet to be learnt whether any FIR was lodged in the given complaint.

Advocate Singh said Chandrashekar is always complaining that he is incarcerated in the same jail where he has filed complaints against several officials. "He has constantly been threatened, coerced and tortured to get retracted from his statement against alleged tainted prison officials," Singh said.

In an interim application filed by Singh in the Supreme Court after the May 13 assault, it was submitted that his client suffered severe pain on his right hand and his blood pressure fell low. "Thereafter the petitioner was taken to the Deen Dayal hospital at 4.00 a.m. on May 14 where he was treated. After an X-ray, a tissue tear was found," the application read.

A Supreme Court bench has listed the matter for further hearing in this week commencing from June 6, however, the matter has not been listed for Monday.

Born in a lower middle-class family in Bengaluru, Chandrashekhar always dreamt of being a millionaire and to achieve his wish, he was determined to earn money by hook or by crook. He started conning people from the age of 17.

In 2007, posing as a high ranking bureaucrat, Sukesh duped around 100 people of Rs 75 crore on the pretext of providing them a job.

Recently, he duped politician T.T.V. Dhinakaran of Rs 50 crore.

Delhi Police's Crime Branch arrested him on Dhinakaran's complaint and he was lodged in the Tihar Jail, but continued to run his extortion racket from inside the prison. He is accused of extorting Rs 200 crore from the family of ex-Fortis Healthcare and Ranbaxy Lab promoters Shivinder and Malvinder Singh from the premises of the prison.

The Delhi Police had, in November 2021, filed a charge sheet against the accused conman, his wife Leena Maria Paul and 12 others in the same case of duping Malvinder Singh's wife of Rs 200 crore.

The Economic Offence Wing (EOW) had written to Tihar Jail authorities to take action against 82 jail officials who allegedly helped him by providing him luxurious facilities inside the prison.

(Ujwal Jalali can be reached at ujwal.j@ians.in)
New Delhi/Dimapur, June 6 : The Naga National Political Groups (NNPG) leaders are jubilant, but the refrain is for caution.

They see the development as a mild setback to the National Socialist Council of Nagalim-Isak-Muivah (NSCN-IM) at this critical juncture of Naga peace talks as Nagas of Arunachal Pradesh have decided to back the umbrella organisation led by N. Kitovi Zhimomi.

"It's a jolt...The stake of NSCN-IM on their supposed supremacy over Naga Political solution received a big jolt," says one source.

The Centre got an "encouragement" not to delay the signing of the final Peace pact...it has now no grounds to delay the accord, a source maintained.

Another source, pointing fingers towards the NDPP-led government in Nagaland, said: "All efforts of the ruling coalition to prolong the Agreement to get over with elections have now come a cropper and futile".

A joint statement issued by NNPG and Tirap Changlang Longdeng People's Forum, Tirap Changlang Longdeng Women Association and Tirap Changlang Longdeng Students' Federation says a joint meeting was held on Saturday, June 4, and the Arunachal Nagas have decided to urge the NNPG to usher an 'honourable and acceptable political solution".

"The clarity and transparency on the political and administrative aspects" were also "acknowledged", the statement said.

The statement is signed among others by Zhimomi, Convener, NNPG and Naga leaders from Arunachal Pradesh including N. Changmi, Tuplam Kitnya, and (Mrs) Sengtung Rangsia.

The NNPG insiders say earlier Zeliangrong Baudi of Assam, Manipur and Nagaland had endorsed the Settled (Agreed) Position between GoI and Working Committee, NNPGs.

Within Nagaland, the much respected Nagaland Gaon Burrah Federation, 14 Tribal Bodies, Central Nagaland Tribal Council (of Aos, Semas and Lothas) and Nagaland Tribal Council had also urged the Centre to sign the agreement on "whatsoever concluded as on October 31, 2019".

This development has perhaps made things inch much ahead amid continuous 'objections' to a final agreement by the NSCN-IM on the ground that for it Flag and a separate Constitution are must.

The Centre has categorically rejected the demand. Sources said in fact Union Home Minister Amit Shah has personally urged Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and seasoned veteran S.C. Jamir to explain to the Naga people that it would be impossible for the centre to negotiate on the issues of flag and Constitution.

Sources close to NNPG have said that as reports of the Pan Naga Hoho and the real intent (as reported by IANS) came to light, the intent of NSCN-IM stands "exposed".

"They want to impose military dictatorship, Nagas now feel deceived," the source said.

The reference is to the reports that the Pan Naga Hoho as proposed by NSCN-IM, claims that 'Chairman' would be the most powerful authority who can suspend a death sentence issued by a court of law and who shall become the executive head as well the Supreme Commander of Nagalim.

Sources have cautioned that such a move is totally "dictatorial and for one-man rule".

"If things are accepted as it is, the Chairman of the proposed Pan Naga Hoho will become as powerful as Xi Jinping in China or Russian ruler Vladimir Putin," a source told IANS.

(Nirendra Dev is a New Delhi-based journalist. He is also author of books 'The Talking Guns: North East India' and 'Modi to Moditva: An Uncensored Truth')

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Dhaka, June 6 : The Bangladesh High Court on Sunday postponed, for one week, the hearing of the writ petition filed by Gana Forum President Kamal Hossain against the order of the Tax Appeal Tribunal on tax evasion of 60 mn takas.

A bench of Justice Syed Refat Ahmed and Justice Mohammad Mahbub-ul-Islam passed the order in favour of Hossain, whose lawyer Tanim Hossain Shaon applied for more time. Deputy Attorney General Pratikar Chakma represented the state.

Hossain filed the writ petition last week challenging the order of the Taxes Appeal Tribunal.

The National Board of Revenue claimed Hossain's law firm in 2018-19 showed its annual income as BDT 10 million against which it paid BDT 7.6 million as tax. In December 2019, the Deputy Tax Commissioner asserted the firm had actually earned BDT 200 million and should pay BDT 60 million as tax and interest as the Gana Forum leader barely discloses five percent of his actual annual earnings in his tax returns.

On December 30, 2019, Hossain appealed to the Joint Commissioner concerned against the order of the Deputy Commissioner, but it was dismissed.

He then appealed to the Taxes Appeal Tribunal against the Joint Commissioner's order and then to the High Court division as it was rejected.

The tax evasion case has become a blot on Hossain who was projected the alternative to PM Sheikh Hasina by the Islamist opposition in 2018 polls.

Hossain's political career is marked by a 360 degree volte face -- from the Foreign Minister under Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, he now runs Gana Front which worked out in 2018 an opposition platform Jatiyo Oikyo Front, in which both BNP and the Jamaat- e-Islami, a fundamentalist party comprised of convicted war criminals, were included.

Then, he was accused of betraying the secular values of 1971 Liberation War and kowtowing to the Islamist parties to fulfil his lust for power.

According to his critics, Hossain may try using his stature to avoid questions over his links with anti-liberation forces, but he is neither above law and has some explaining to do over his political swingabouts.

They alleged that the huge undisclosed amount sitting on Hossain's firm account may reveal dark secrets -- huge funds flowing to his accounts after he agreed to be the face of the Islamist opposition during the national polls.

It also remains to be investigated if some of this undisclosed income has flown from foreign sources, with his British son-in-law David Bergman on overdrive to project him as Sheikh Hasina's alternative with apparent backing from fundamentalist outfit Jamaat-e Islami and its key ally BNP.

After all, Bergman has already earned notoriety of receiving funds from anti-liberation quarters to stop the trial of war criminals, says pro-liberation activists while on the other hand, he might act as the conduit between Hossain and BNP's current acting Chairman Tareq Rahman, dubbed as the symbol of violent politics in a US cable made public by Wikileaks.
New Delhi, June 6 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that India is the land of Buddha and Mahatma Gandhi who showed in action what living for others is all about.

The Prime Minister made the remark while virtually addressing the Rotary International World Convention.

Calling the Rotarians a true mix of "success and service", he said, "Every Rotary gathering of this scale is like mini-global assembly. There is diversity and vibrancy." Noting the two Mottos of Rotary "Service Above Self" and "One Profits Most Who Serves Best", the Prime Minister said that these are important principles for the welfare of the entire humankind and resonate with the "teachings of our saints and sages".

Quoting Swami Vivekananda, Prime Minister Modi said, "We all exist in an interdependent, interrelated and interconnected world. That is why it is important that individuals, organisations and governments work together to make our planet more prosperous and sustainable." He praised Rotary International for working "hard" on several causes that have a positive impact on the earth. "India is leading in efforts for environmental protection. Sustainable development is the need of the hour. Inspired by our centuries old ethos of staying in harmony with nature, the 1.4 billion Indians are making every possible effort to make our earth cleaner and greener." He also listed India's initiatives like International Solar Alliance, "One Sun, One World, One Grid", and LIFE - Lifestyle for Environment. He also said that India's commitments on Net Zero by 2070 were also appreciated by the world community.

The Prime Minister said that as India is home to one seventh of humanity, at such a scale, any achievement of India will have a positive impact on the world. He cited Covid-19 vaccine story and efforts to achieve elimination of tuberculosis by 2025, five years before the global target of 2030, as examples.

Prime Minister Modi invited the Rotary family to support these efforts at the grassroots and also asked them to observe Yoga Day all over the world in large numbers.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Uttarkashi, June 6 : At least 24 people were killed after a bus carrying pilgrims fell into a gorge near Damta on the Yamunotri National Highway in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi district on Sunday, police said.

The bus had around 30 pilgrims from Panna district of Madhya Pradesh and a driver. The accident took place between Damta and Barnigad, which is around 70 km from Yamunotri Dham at around 7.15 p.m., after the driver allegedly fell asleep at the wheel. It was said that this was his third trip without a rest.

So far the bodies of 24 pilgrims have been retrieved while six others injured are undergoing treatment at Damta Primary Health Centre for first aid.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed grief over the accident. He said, "The bus accident in Uttarakhand is extremely painful. I express my condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. The local administration under the supervision of the state government is doing all possible help..." The Prime Minister has also announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each from PMNRF for the next of kin of those who lost their lives in the accident in Uttarakhand. The injured would be given Rs 50,000 each.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has also expressed his grief at the loss of lives in the accident and spoken to Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami.

"It is very sad to hear about the bus of devotees falling into the gorge in Uttarakhand. I have spoken to the chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. Local administration and SDRF teams are engaged in rescue work and the injured are being taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. NDRF is also reaching there soon," the Union Home Minister tweeted.

"The death of pilgrims, from Panna district, after their bus fell into a gorge in Uttarakhand, is unfortunate. Our team is in constant touch with the Uttarakhand government. Arrangements are being made for the treatment of the injured and to bring back the bodies," tweeted Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.

Meanwhile, the Uttarakhand Chief Minister has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the accident.

Dhami reached the disaster control room at Secretariat to take stock of the relief and rescue operations. Expressing grief over the accident, the Chief Minister has directed the district administration to carry out relief and rescue work expeditiously. He also instructed officials to make arrangements for proper treatment of the injured.

It was learnt that SDM, Badkot tehsildar, SDRF, police and ambulance have been deployed to the spot.

The Uttarakhand Transport Department has announced a compensation of Rs 1 lakh each to the dead and Rs 40,000 to the seriously injured.
Guwahati, June 6 : An engineer of Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) was killed in an accident at a drilling site in Assam's Jorhat district on Sunday.

The incident reportedly took place during a drilling operation in the Kalapani area under the Titabor constituency.

The deceased engineer, identified as Saurabh Jyoti Pathak, was a resident of the Jorhat's Pokamura area. He sustained a head injury and was rushed to the Jorhat Medical College Hospital (JMCH), however, doctors at the hospital declared Pathak dead on arrival.

He is survived by his wife, a daughter, and a son.
Optima Tax Relief, the nations leading tax resolution firm, has been named a Top Workplace USA winner for the second consecutive year by Energage, a research firm specializing in workplace culture. Optima was also recognized with Culture Excellence Awards in five categories: Leadership, Purpose & Value, Work-Life Flexibility, Innovation, and Compensation & Benefits.

Optimas CEO David King shared his thoughts on the Top Workplaces honor, saying, Our culture is the bedrock of the company. We hold ourselves to the highest standard in every aspect of our business, and providing an uplifting, nurturing workplace is central to that. Its written into our companys U.N.I.T.E.D. core values, in fact.

Top Workplaces USA celebrates employers across the nation that have built exceptional workplace cultures, with recipients chosen based entirely on data collected through Energages employee engagement surveys. Over 42,000 organizations were invited to participate in the 2022 Top Workplaces USA survey.

The Top Workplaces USA award comes just months after Optima Tax Relief was named a Top Workplace by the Orange County Register for the seventh consecutive year. It was an especially positive feat as the company ranked No. 2 among companies with over 500 employees.

The companys leaders cite a culture of listening and being responsive to employees needs as fundament components to their success. To deliver exceptional services to our clients, its essential we attract and retain the top people in the field. To do this, we turn to our employees for ideas and perspective, Kimberly Carson, Associate Vice President, Human Resources stated. We consistently solicit our staff about their needs, and we listen and act upon what they say.

About Optima Tax Relief

Optima Tax Relief is the nations leading tax resolution firm aiding individuals and businesses struggling with unmanageable IRS and state tax debts. Optimas commitment to delivering unparalleled service and results has transformed the tax resolution industry and earned the company numerous honors, including the Torch Award for Ethics from the Better Business Bureau Serving the Pacific Southwest and the Orange County Civic 50. Offering full-service tax resolution and employing over 500 professionals, Optima has resolved over a billion dollars in tax debts for their clients, helping their clients achieve a better financial future by making their tax issues a thing of the past.
Ariana Grandes Fortnite grand rift digital concert tour in 2021, attended by over 27 million fans, shows the demand for digital events. All Stars VR aims to fulfil this demand, allowing anyone, worldwide, to meet their favourite celebrities and influencers on a secure blockchain platform...

All Stars VR, a blockchain platform focused on web3 and metaverse development, has announced the launch of the $STARVR token and plans to release the All Stars VR metaverse, web3 marketplace and defi protocol for token holders in Q2 2022. All Stars VR is focused on utilizing cryptocurrency to build a secure and innovative platform so fans can experience their favourite stars up close and personal like never before.

All Stars VR was created with recent years in mind. A lot of events, from work meetings to social events, have shifted to the digital, online realm due to lockdowns. Said a spokesperson for All Stars VR. The recent success of Ariana Grandes Fortnite grand rift digital concert tour in 2021, which was attended by over 27 million fans, shows the demand for digital events. All Stars VR aims to fulfil this demand, allowing anyone, no matter where they are in the world, to meet their favourite celebrities and influencers on a secure blockchain platform and trade exclusive fan merchandise. The advantage of digital events is that they can grow as large as needed, it would be hard to imagine 27 million fans in an arena for a concert or meet & greet, but on a digital platform it suddenly becomes very possible. All Stars VR is focused on using blockchain technology to provide a secure and stable platform thats able to host such large events.

All Stars VR is focused on blockchain development and is on track to reach an audience of 100 million by 2023 through continued partnerships with select celebrities and influencers.

The $STARVR token will be launched on the Binance Smart Chain. 10% of every token purchase and sale is collected and distributed. 4% goes to $STARVR liquidity pool automatically, keeping token value high and facilitating smoother transactions. The other 4% is reflected to token holders in $BUSD rewards in proportion to the amount of tokens they hold. The remaining 2% is used to continue platform development, marketing partnerships and to generate rewards for holders such as token burns.

The blockchain platform has completed phase one of development, which included the litepaper and roadmap release, website launch, beta testing of their web3 marketplace, the completion of private seed investment and the launch of their marketing strategy which includes secured partnerships with influencers and celebrities. Phase 2 of development includes audits, the presale and the $STARVR token launch with the unveiling of the All Stars Virtual Reality Metaverse shortly after. The team is on track to building a strong and vibrant community of supporters and aims to have 15,000 holders and 20,000 telegram members by the completion of phase 2.

For more information about the All Stars VR token, to connect on social media, as well as, to learn more about the team and upcoming presale, visit https://allstarsvr.com/
Students at the University of Denver host the first annual Langar@DU on Saturday, June 4th, 2022 from 11am  2pm. In partnership with the Colorado Sikhs, undergraduate students, graduate students, staff, faculty, contractors, neighbors, family, and friends gather to celebrate a shared love of humanity and oneness while enjoying a free, vegetarian Indian meal, music, fun, games and opportunities to connect in community. The event will take place on Carnegie Green and all are welcome to attend.

Sikhs around the world serve over 6.5 million Langar meals each day in a 500-year old Sikh tradition. During this free, shared meal, the community is invited to come as they are, as all are welcomed. When the Sikh tradition of Langar is practiced at the University, the central focus of promoting equity through preparing and sharing a meal has been inspiring for the students. In my experience, Langar is an expression of bridging diverse race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, and class identities. Through the course, the students learn how to build inclusive community across difference, said Marji Karish, University of Denver, Adjunct Professor.

Throughout the University of Denver's 2022 and 2023 Spring Quarters, Communication students worked alongside community partners and Community + Values to create, host and implement a Langar on campus of their own, working through strategy, marketing, community engagement, event planning and leadership roles in order to make this event a reality. This course challenged students to engage in leadership roles and community planning while providing them with tools to serve others as well as skills to manage large programs in organizational settings.

Ive enjoyed working with the diverse student population at DU. Their outreach to every nook of DUs population, the neighboring communities, and civic leadership has brought a truly expansive population of like-minded people together who appreciate the Unity Through Community at the center of Langar. The national and language diversity in the classes proved to widen the reach of the invitation, shared Mr. Dilpreet Jammu, President of the Colorado Sikhs.

Fourth year DU student, Shania Vigil stated, The implementation of this event is just the first step of our greater goal. This project has and will always be bigger than a class grade or project. This very event, and everything the Sikh community stands for, exemplifies what all of humanity should be like and how important it is to serve others for a better and more inclusive world."

The Langar@DU takes place on the University of Denver campus and welcomes the community to take part.

For additional information please visit https://www.du.edu/community-values/langaratdu
At GRUPOBD, we know that our philosophy, 'Haz Todo Con Amor (Do Everything With Love),' has been a fundamental part of the history of our companies and has been paramount to achieving our goals and objectives said Oliver Reinhart, CEO of GRUPOBD.

GRUPOBD hosted an important event where they presented the evolution of their philosophy, "HTCA  Haz Todo Con Amor (Do Everything With Love)," to collaborators. All the members of the great family of GRUPOBD were able to witness the launch and full scope of this special driving factor that has characterized the company since its foundation. The event was held on May 31st in the convention center at ATELIER  ESTUDIO Playa Mujeres.

The objective of "Haz Todo Con Amor" is to think and act from the heart in everyday life and in line with the context of GRUPOBD's culture of service, where employees are encouraged always to represent their highest values such as love, family, humility, and gratitude.

"At GRUPOBD, we know that our philosophy, 'Haz Todo Con Amor (Do Everything With Love),' has been a fundamental part of the history of our companies and has been paramount to achieving our goals and objectives. This philosophy establishes an environment conducive to development and growth, both personal and professional. 'Haz Todo Con Amor' speaks highly about our identity and the limits of respect that have distinguished us as a company from the beginning," said Oliver Reinhart, CEO of GRUPOBD.

In this sense, it is worth mentioning that the company's mission is to inspire the integral transformation and transcendence of the people who form part of GRUPOBD, the umbrella company of the brands ADH - ATELIER de Hoteles, INSPIRA, UNIO SERVICES, BU'TIK, and BDI.

"More than 38 years of experience, talent, passion, professionalism, and the execution of the philosophy, 'Haz Todo Con Amor,' created and promoted by our founder, Don Fernando Garcia Zalvidea (R.I.P.), presently place GRUPOBD in a position that makes us proud while preparing us for the future. The group's philosophy personally motivates us to positively address the different situations that tend to arise in life. Professionally, this way of thinking provides guidelines to the standards that must be met to create an environment of well-being and respect for all, said Beatriz Mora, Director of Human Capital at GRUPOBD.

In conclusion, Oliver Reinhart emphasized, "Haz Todo Con Amor (Do Everything With Love) is the lifestyle and mentality that drives us towards excellence. It is the stamp imprinted on our daily actions, putting love and empathy for others above all. It is the identity that characterizes us and motivates us to improve every day as professionals and as people, leaving a mark and positively influencing everyone around us.

With acts like this, GRUPOBD continues to consolidate itself as a socially responsible company that is committed to value and respect for all its employees.

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Bonnie at Ellis Island Medal of Honor Award Ceremony Red Carpet BroadwayHD Founder Bonnie Comley awarded Ellis Island Medal of Honor.

On Saturday, May 14, 2022, the Ellis Island Honors Society (EIHS) hosted the 35th Annual Ellis Island Medals of Honor ceremony, where BroadwayHD founder, Bonnie Comley, was among the medalists recognized for their leadership and service within their communities and professions while exemplifying the values of the American way of life. The black-tie gala was held in Ellis Island's Great Hall, the original registry room and gateway for 12 million immigrants to the U.S. The 2022 medalists received and celebrated their awards in front of an iconic view of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline.

Bonnie Comley is considered a pioneer in the steaming of Broadway stage productions with her company BroadwayHD and is listed in the Guinness World Records for the first live stream of a Broadway show. Comley was recognized for her many years of expanding the fanbase of theater with BroadwayHD by eliminating barriers of geography, economics and physical limitations with digital access to filmed Broadway shows. She is a producer of live theater, digital/filmed theater, and theater cast & concept audio album recordings. She is a three-time Tony Award winner, an Olivier Award winner, and recipient of two Drama Desk Awards for her stage productions. She is a member of The Broadway League and serves on their Audience Engagement Committee. Comley was recently re-elected as President of the Board of The Drama League, the mentoring organization for stage directors, and has served on their board since 2009.

The 2022 Ellis island Award Ceremony commenced with an introduction from co-masters of ceremony, Marvin Scott and Jill Nicolini of WPIX, followed by opening remarks from EIHS chairman Nasser Kazeminy. "This year's distinguished medalists come from a range of industries and backgrounds," Kazeminy shared. "We honor them, not for where they came from, but for what they bring to our great nation. Each of them represents a thread from which the fabric of this great nation is woven. A fabric rich in color and diversity and incapable of being torn apart." Following the event, guests were ferried back to Manhattan as fireworks lit up the sky in their honor.

For over 35 years, the Ellis Island Honors Society has been fostering tolerance, respect, and understanding among diverse religious, ethnic, and cultural groups by celebrating distinguished Americans of immigrant descent and others of remarkable character for their contributions to the world. EIHS is a 501(c)3 non-profit, which, in addition to presenting the Ellis Island Medals of Honor, is a humanitarian organization supporting educational opportunities for students with immigrant heritage and preserving the Ellis Island National Monument. Since the Medal was founded in 1986, EIHS has honored distinguished and diverse Americans including Presidents of the United States; Nobel Prize recipient Elie Wiesel; Generals Norman Schwarzkopf and Colin Powell; Justice Sandra Day O'Connor; Secretaries of State Madeline Albright, Condoleezza Rice, and Hillary Clinton; Albert II, Prince of Monaco; Bob Hope; Muhammad Ali; Frank Sinatra; Rosa Parks; Mike Wallace, and Oscar-winning actress Rita Moreno. All have distinguished themselves through their significant philanthropic and humanitarian contributions to this country.

The Ellis Island Medals of Honor rank among the nation's most renowned awards. The U.S. Senate and House of Representatives have officially recognized the Ellis Island Medals of Honor, and each year the recipients are listed in the Congressional Record. To see the full list of 2022 recipients, please visit: http://medalists.eihonors.org/
Coffee shops and cafes have, throughout their history, always existed in the semi-liminal third space boundary between work and home, and now the Seattle-based Starbucks is creating an entirely new type of third space by launching an NFT community exclusively for brand fans who want more than just a caffeine kick. The digital collectible-based loyalty program will offer access to exclusive content and other programming and experiences, all defined by the Starbucks brand pillars and company mission.

The Starbucks-branded NFT collections will be launched sequentially, in tiers, as the company iterates this innovative next-generation membership model. To start, the loyalty initiative will tie its insider benefits to things purely centered around coffee and Starbucks products. Further iterations will touch upon a broader spectrum of the areas the cafe chain has built its blue chip reputation upon, including art, music, books, and all things coffeehouse culture. Starbucks plans to create a global digital community of customers defined by collaboration, experiences and shared ownership through the NFT-based program.

The new, NFT and web3 driven third place community will be built on an environmentally sustainable platform using technology that aligns with and ideally even adds to the coffee chains pre-existing sustainability commitments. The thematic engine of the NFT collections will tie back to Starbucks own heritage as a world-class coffeehouse, and provide access for the member-owners to a series of exclusive experiences and perks, including collaborations with other like-minded brands and creative businesses and communities.

Drawing upon its over 50-year history, the company plans to leverage its unique treasure trove of assets spanning coffee, art, storytelling, and communal sense of place to provide a programmable, brandable, digital experience able to be accessed through the unique benefits of NFT ownership. Consumers expect to be rewarded by brands and retailers not only for their spending, but also for their engagement and contributions, and by bringing digital experiences to life through a novel approach to blockchain technology Starbucks hopes to build greater consumer engagement. Tokenization and NFTs add a layer of transparency, traceability and authenticity to the modern ownership.

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This article originally appeared in the PSFK iQ report, Fractional Ownership.
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From the All-American Marching Band performing across the iconic yard of bricks to engineers in the pits, Purdue has helped welcome fans back home again to Indiana for more than 100 years.

Media contact: Trevor Peters, peter237@purdue.edu

What is the importance of the red planet, Earths neighbor more than 150 million miles away? Looking for the latest in Mars research? What can another planets history tell us about Earths future? A variety of Purdues leadership, expertise and innovation in Mars and planetary research is highlighted in this roundup.

Media contacts: Brittany Steff, bsteff@purdue.edu and Brian Huchel, bhuchel@purdue.edu

Some 1,630 Purdue University Global graduates  including 281 Indiana residents and 46 from Indianapolis  took part in in-person and virtual commencement ceremonies May 21 at the Murat Theatre. It marked Purdue University Globals 13th commencement since its formation in 2018 and the third in Indianapolis.

Media contact: Tom Schott, tschott@purdue.edu

With multiple efforts toward diversity and inclusion already underway, Purdues College of Veterinary Medicine is extending that commitment with a series of groundbreaking efforts now being enhanced by a new scholarship program from the colleges partners VetBloom and Ethos Veterinary Health.

Media contact: Greg Kline, gkline@purdue.edu

Purdue University and Ivy Tech Community College are partnering to help meet the future workforce needs in microelectronics, a field that is expected to add more than 100,000 workers over the next decade.

Media contact: Brian Huchel, bhuchel@purdue.edu

About Purdue University

Purdue University is a top public research institution developing practical solutions to todays toughest challenges. Ranked in each of the last four years as one of the 10 Most Innovative universities in the United States by U.S. News & World Report, Purdue delivers world-changing research and out-of-this-world discovery. Committed to hands-on and online, real-world learning, Purdue offers a transformative education to all. Committed to affordability and accessibility, Purdue has frozen tuition and most fees at 2012-13 levels, enabling more students than ever to graduate debt-free. See how Purdue never stops in the persistent pursuit of the next giant leap at https://stories.purdue.edu.
By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 06/05/2022



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[ Spoilers: This report contains spoilers about Jibri and Miona's relationship and if the couple has broken up or are still together.]

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So did Miona and Jibri break up or get married, and if they wed, is the couple still together now?

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Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade.

star Miona gave Jibri Bell an ultimatum about having a beach wedding on the show's ninth season, so did Miona get her way or did the couple break up? Did Miona and Jibri get married, and if so, do spoilers reveal that they're still together now?Jibri, a 28-year-old band frontman from Rapid City, SD, was living in Los Angeles, CA, when he met Miona, a 23-year-old makeup artist from Nis, Serbia, while touring with his band called Black Serbs, who create "space punk music," in Serbia.Jibri said they got engaged in Thailand and then she planned to move to South Dakota on a K-1 visa. While Jibri thought Rapid City was "a hidden gem" and they could save money by living with his parents for awhile, Miona preferred moving to Los Angeles, CA.Jibri's mother worried Miona would try to pressure her son into moving to California, especially because Jibri may not be able to afford that kind of Beverly Hills life.Jibri told his mom not to fret because he's "a hustler" and could "sell meat to a vegan," and he believed only one good song would put him back on the map.Jibri knew the living dynamic was going to be "interesting" with multiple strong personalities in his parents' household, and he anticipated a lot of conflict even though he was going to remain optimistic about the situation."I definitely can't provide for the Kardashian lifestyle Miona is used to," Jibri lamented. "Historically, I haven't been smart with my money, and so that's something I'm really trying to work on for the next year."Jibri told the cameras that Los Angeles could maybe happen one day, but not any time soon.Jibri said he envisioned living in South Dakota for six to 12 months and possibly getting married there, which Miona said on FaceTime sounded "even worse." She wanted to her wedding day to be really special and on a beach.Miona then finally arrived in America, and Jibri said it felt amazing to be reunited with the love of his life. He even pulled out a red carpet for her to walk on through the airport."America is usually always represented as a perfect life and chasing the American dream, so I definitely expect a better standard and way of living. And Jibri promised that we would move to [Los Angeles]. If that doesn't happen, then I would want to leave," Miona said in a confessional.Jibri brought Miona to his red pickup truck and surprised his love with cowgirl boots, which she thought was sweet and wonderful.Jibri proceeded to give Miona a tour through Rapid City, but she noted, "There is nothing."Miona noted how she didn't want to be living in South Dakota come the winter, and Jibri complained about Miona's lack of patience and how she was "very stubborn."Jibri said neither he or Miona seemed to know what they had gotten themselves into.Jibri and Miona were then shown arriving home, and Miona gave his parents -- Brian and Mahala -- a big hug. Mahala said she liked Miona right off the bat, and Brian agreed how she seemed nice and sweet.But Mahala noticed communication between the couple wasn't great and they didn't appear to be on the same page about when to move away from Rapid City.Mahala also set some ground rules, including having Jibri and Miona cook once or twice a week. Mahala found Jibri's parents pretty strict.Miona shared how she'd like to start a business in America and also continue working as a makeup artist.Jibri wanted his parents to relax because Miona was tired from her flight, and Miona admitted the tense conversation had thrown her off a little bit.Jibri also wished his parents had more encouraging words for Miona rather than concerns, rules and requests. Jibri realized living with his parents may be more difficult that he ever could have imagined."Before we get married, we're definitely going to have to get our own house and move from here, whether he likes it or not," Miona said in a confessional.During their first morning together in America, Jibri looked forward to having breakfast and some alone time with Miona, who had never lived away from home. Jibri said Miona never had to do laundry or cook and clean, and so he hoped living together -- away from a four or five-star resort -- would go smoothly.Miona didn't want to unpack her suitcases because she didn't want to stay in South Dakota long, but Jibri insisted they were going to live there through the winter.Miona didn't understand why Jibri was pushing for them to stay in Rapid City when she had no desire to stay, and Miona insisted that she wasn't going to change her mind.Jibri explained how they needed to be frugal in order to pay for a nice beach wedding and save money. Jibri also needed to get his music career off its feet and have Miona begin her career as a makeup artist.Miona realized Jibri was trying to be financially responsible, but she believed they'd have more opportunities in a big city."You frustrate me but you are so sexy," Jibri playfully told her.The couple then planned to cook dinner for Jibri's parents that night, hoping Jibri's mother would get to know the woman he knew and loved.Miona, who apparently tried to cook in Serbia once and sent Jibri to the toilet, then had her first experience grocery shopping in the United States.Jibri said he hated doing chores but was trying to live by example and teach Miona how to run or at least contribute to a household.While making dinner, Jibri shared how he and David were thinking about starting back up with the band.Miona said she had no idea about that, and she and David apparently didn't get along very well. David thought Miona was with Jibri for the wrong reasons, like for an opportunity in America.Jibri told Miona how she hadn't been completely respectful to David, who thought Miona wasn't very humble or modest based on how she had once complained at a restaurant."I think David doesn't like me because I took Jibri from him or something weird like that," Miona explained in a confessional, adding how David had allegedly never stopped judging her.Jibri told Miona that both she and David shouldn't act like children, but Miona called him "jealous.""I don't care if he thinks [I'm playing you]... He doesn't know me and I don't think he has much of a right to have an opinion. He's not even family," Miona complained. "Just because he's your godfather, it doesn't mean he's going to be anything to me."Jibri said Miona didn't understand the close relationship he had with David and how they were connected in many different ways, including through culture and spirituality."I'm your family," Miona snapped, adding how she always needed to come first and David didn't need to be in the picture.Jibri felt Miona was giving him an ultimatum, but he said he needed to work on the album whether Miona was going to like it or not -- and that she'd just have to deal with it.Jibri accused Miona of being "rude and inconsiderate" of both David and himself, but Miona didn't see it that way.Jibri and Miona served Jibri's parents a meal that night that they hated, but Jibri said the couple had tried really hard that night.Jibri was upset with his mother for being so hard on Miona when she had never cooked a real meal before, and he acknowledged how his mother's attitude was going to push him further away.With 72 days left to wed, Miona admitted she wasn't comfortable living in Jibri's parents' house.Miona said she missed her family's polite and genuine nature, and she got the feeling everybody was "fake" in the United States.While sorting Miona's laundry, Mahala discovered a sexy animal-print crop top, and Jibri's mom called it "little." Mahala said people didn't dress so provocatively in Rapid City, and Miona countered, "That's one more reason for us to not be here.""I want you to be here. I want Jibri to be able to be here," Mahala said."I will try to adjust as much as I can, but I don't want to change who I am, and my clothes don't say anything about me. People should know that in the 21st century," Miona explained.Mahala told Miona that she seemed really intelligent and wearing such sexy clothes could take away from that and be a distraction. But Miona said she wanted to express herself however she saw fit and be comfortable in her own skin."What gives me confidence is owning my body and saying 'f-ck you' to everybody," Miona told Mahala.Mahala said if Miona chose not to change how she dressed in her home, then that's a sign of "a deeper issue of disrespect." Mahala said Miona's needs shouldn't trump everybody else's needs."It makes me feel like a kid again, so honestly, she's pushing me to want to move out of here even more. I'm definitely going to tell that to Jibri after today," Miona noted.Later on, Jibri told his mother that he was "pissed off" about how Mahala had treated Miona. He was afraid Miona -- who allegedly has a temper -- would go off on Mahala and then permanently damage the women's relationship.Jibri, who was feeling a lot of pressure, asked Mahala to tone down her rules and demands. Jibri said Miona was expecting "a lot of sh-t" and not willing to compromise. He wondered if Miona was trying to start something just so they could leave South Dakota sooner.Mahala wasn't sure she could support Jibri marrying Miona within 90 days because she didn't know Miona well enough yet.Mahala wondered how real Miona could be with people, and she hoped Jibri wasn't just wrapped up in lust and Miona's sexy appearance."If you think I'm making a mistake, which is how I'm taking this [conversation], then let me make it," Jibri said.Jibri then told Miona about an alleged once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work with a major producer in Chicago and make music with his band. Jibri would have to travel there in the next couple of weeks, and the venture made Miona feel disappointed.Miona didn't want to be alone in Chicago, and she noted how being with his parents in Rapid City would be even worse. Miona also couldn't promise that she'd get along with Jibri's best friend.Jibri just begged Miona to remain as cordial as possible with David, and she replied, "Of course.""It didn't sound like you meant that," Jibri said."That's the best that I can do," Miona noted. "We are talking about your feelings nonstop... I left my job, I left my family, I left everything to be here with you -- and now I'm following you. I have one wish, [a beach wedding], and it's too much to ask for."Miona said Jibri made his dreams a reality while they had to "prolong" everything she wanted."If we go to Chicago, we need to [have a beach wedding]," Miona demanded.Jibri wished they could wait until they were in a better place financially to have a beach wedding, and he thought it was an extremely frustrating situation. Their relationship was beginning to feel like a competition to Jibri on which person was sacrificing more."I don't like that," Jibri lamented in a confessional. "I need to get out of here for a while."Miona, who revealed on Facebook in December 2021 that she "moved to the USA almost 3 months ago," according to In Touch Weekly, is definitely still dating Jibri.Not only do the couple share the same last name on Instagram, indicating they've tied the knot and gotten married, but Jibri also posted a picture of Miona on May 18, 2022 via Instagram Stories and called her his "everything."Jibri and Miona have been selling clothes they wore on the show, and Miona joked on Instagram in late May how Jibri loves to prank her. Jibri also called Miona "my girl" on Instagram, saying he loves spending quality time with her.On May 22, Miona posted a photo of her straddling Jibri's waist on the beach and she captioned it, "I hope Jibri's mom approves." Jibri shared the post on his own Instagram account as well.They recently took a trip to Oregon and Washington, and he gushed on his Instagram account how "love conquers all" and he's "so grateful" for Miona.A few days earlier, Jibri posted a funny video of Miona and himself shopping at what appeared to be Target or Walmart, and he captioned it, "Relationships require compromise. [Miona] has had enough of me."Jibri shared on Instagram how fashion and expressing himself through wardrobe choices is an interest and hobby he and Miona both share, and there are many videos and posts of the couple together in May.In early May, Miona and Jibri posed for a fun 2000s-inspired photo shoot, and Jibri uploaded a video of Miona trying Starbucks drinks for the first time on May 5.Miona gushed about loving her coffee and dragonfruit lemonade before kissing Jibri on the lips.On May 4, Miona wrote about her new American life on Instagram Stories, "I can't eat a lot of American food. My stomach gets messed up, so we are coming to Balkan store regularly."And before that, Jibri uploaded a photo of the couple looking chic in attire Jibri called "Dakota Boho."Miona also uploaded a video of herself having a pillow fight with Jibri on April 20."We are both so stubborn," Miona captioned the video.It appears the couple is still living in South Dakota. Miona and Jibri, who are very active on Instagram TikTok and YouTube, often post videos featuring a prairie landscape in the background. Jibri also tagged his location as South Dakota in early May.In late April, Jibri posted a video of himself dancing on the beach with Miona and kissing her."We all deserve love! #love #90dayfiance," he captioned the video.Jibri also posted a video of himself flipping a coin to determine whether he and Miona should purchase a $700 above-ground pool. Miona won, and so Jibri later posted a video of her floating on it.Jibri has shared photos with Miona going back months and months.According to Miona and Jibri's Instagram accounts, they got engaged in December 2019."She said YES!!!" Jibri captioned a photo of the couple posing at sunset in Thailand."For those of you who truly know me know that I'm usually not nervous or scared to do anything... but this had my palms sweating... I'm talking almost dropped the ring and put it on the wrong finger!"He added, "Thank you for inspiring me and speaking to my heart. Today marks a new chapter for both of us."Six months after the couple got engaged, Jibri referred to Miona as his "wife" when speaking with a Serbian news publication, Telegraf, in June 2020."It's always been my second home, a home away from home for me," Jibri said at the time of Serbia.He added, "My wife's Serbian, and my life's Serbian, and everything Serbian to me is right. Serbia is my second home and I want everyone to see and see how open and friendly it is here."Want more spoilers or couples updates? Click here to visit our homepage!
WEST HAVEN  The city might have a budget to present to the Municipal Accountability Review Board before the June 15 deadline.

A special meeting of the City Council has been noticed for June 7 to take action on the citys five-year capital plan and Mayor Nancy Rossis budget review.

On May 17, the Municipal Accountability Review Board, a state panel that provides oversight to financially distressed municipalities and has the power to approve or reject the budgets of those municipalities, rejected West Havens budget. The city has until June 15 for the MARB to approve a budget before the state board can approve its own budget for the city.

The issue that came up most during the MARBs discussion on May 17 was a renegotiated police contract intended to recruit and retain police officers by providing a $10,000 pay bump and annual raises for the remainder of the contract. Several MARB members said they did not see a clear explanation in the citys five-year plan for how it would afford to sustain the program once one-time federal grant funding dries up.

You have a massive, uncovered liability in the operating budget, said Thomas Hamilton, chief financial officer of Norwalk Public Schools, in that meeting.

Board member Bob White, a bankruptcy attorney, said there was a deliberate hiding of the ball to avoid explaining how the city would be able to afford the increase in salaries as well as covering the impact it would have on pensions. He rejected Rossis explanation that the five-year plan was insufficient because of last-minute changes approved by the council before the MARB meeting, saying that edits made to the first year of a five-year plan should have no impact on having solid justifications for spending in the subsequent four years.

City Council Chairman Peter Massaro, D-6, said Tuesday that the council had not taken any action on approving a new budget and five-year plan because they were waiting for Rossi.

It was not immediately clear if the five-year capital plan or budget review documents listed on the June 7 agenda were intended to address the MARBs concerns about the citys five-year plan. Rossi did not respond to multiple requests for comment.

City Council Finance Committee Chairwoman Bridgette Hoskie, D-1, said it was her belief that the special meeting would cover the state panels issues.

I am under the impression the plan will address the MARBs concerns, she said.

brian.zahn@hearstmediact.com
PM Hun Sens party controls the election committee and improperly sent members to watch polls, opponents say.

Prime Minister Hun Sen raises his ballot before putting it into ballot box as his wife Bun Rany looks on in Cambodia's Kandal Province, June 5, 2022.

Prime Minister Hun Sens Cambodian Peoples Party claimed a sweeping victory in nationwide elections for local councils on Sunday, a contest that rights watchdogs said was heavily slanted toward the ruling party and marred by intimidation and obstruction of the opposition.

The voting for local councils in rural and urban precincts was seen as a test of support for opponents of the CPP five years after Hun Sen had the largest opposition party banned after a strong showing in the previous election.

The National Election Committee has yet to release preliminary results, but said the ruling CPP was leading an election in which 77.91 percent, or about 7.1 million of 9.2 million registered voters turned out to elect 11,622 commune council members.

Its been a successful electoral process with a calm environment, security, public order, no violence and no intimidation, NEC President Prach Chan told a news conference after the polling stations closed Sunday afternoon.

The voters voted overwhelmingly -- 77 percent voted. The preliminary results are showing the CPP is the leading in all provinces and municipalities, said CCP spokesman Sok Ey San.

This is a big success for the CPP, he said.

People look for their names in the voters' list at a polling station during local commune elections in Phnom Penh, June 5, 2022. Credit: AFP RFA has not independently confirmed the turnout and preliminary results. The official election results will be announced on June 26.

It was not a free and fair and just election, said Thach Setha, vice-president of the Candlelight Party, the most prominent of 16 non-CPP parties competing.

There was pressure and intimidation, he said, noting that the NEC was dominated by the ruling party, when the law stipulates a neutral body.

Thach Setha said his party will file complaints with the NEC over the alleged election irregularities, including CPP village chiefs who violated the election law by sitting at the polling stations.

He said authorities arrested two of his election observers, releasing one later.

Voters did not turn out in as great a number as in 2017 and many polling stations were quiet, said Soeung Sengkaruna, a spokesman for the rights group Adhoc.

Fewer people went to polling station to find their names. And to the ballot counting stations, I didnt see many people monitoring the process, he said.

This shows that people didnt actively participate in the process like the previous commune election, added Soeung Sengkaruna.

Kem Sokha, the former leader of the Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) who was arrested months before the party was banned in 2017, declined to vote on Sunday and was joined by many of his followers.

We didnt vote because if we have voted it would been seen like we supported the CNRPs dissolution, said close Kem Sokha ally Khou Haingmeang.

The former CNRP representative from Siem Reap said Kem Sokha, who is embroiled in a slow-moving treason trial on charges from 2017, also feared that getting involved Sunday could violate court orders banning political activities.

On the last day of two weeks of campaigning Friday, the United Nations Human Rights Office criticized what it called "the pattern of threats, intimidation and obstruction targeting opposition candidates."

Candidates have faced numerous restrictions and reprisals that have hindered their activities, with imprisonment of a number of candidates that appears designed to curb political campaigning, office spokesperson Liz Throssell said in a statement.

France-based opposition leader Sam Rainsy, who founded the Candlelight Party in 2005 before joining forces with the CNRP, said that while "these elections are worse than the previous ones in terms of transparency and honesty," the party did well in the face of obstacles thrown up by the government.

Despite the continuous atmosphere of fear and intimidation in Cambodia, hope for democratic change at the ballot box has been revived by the Candlelight Party, he said a statement.

Every seat won is a seat less for the autocratic regime of Prime Minister Hun Sen, who has been in power for 37 years," said Rainsy, who has lived in exile in France since 2015 under threat of arrest on a raft of charges he and his supporters say are aimed at keeping him out of politics.

Translated by Samean Yun. Written by Paul Eckert.
NEW assessment by the Commission for Human Rights and Good Governance (CHRAGG) on conduct by the Police Force shows that the law enforcing organ was generally doing good with regard to adhering to laws, rules, regulations and human rights.

CHRAGG Chairperson, Judge (rtd) Mathew Mwaimu said overall assessment shows that the Police Force is doing a good job, which is why the country is peaceful and stable and crime has decreased.

However, the Commission has stressed the importance of the police to continue observing the laws, rules, and regulations while performing its duties as well as avoid acts of human rights violations.

Judge (rtd) Mwaimu made the statement during a media briefing in Dar es Salaam on Friday during the Commission's assessment of the police force performance.

Despite that broad view, he said there have been complaints to the Police Force from suspects, the general public, and sometimes the media regarding incidences of human rights violations and violations of good governance norms.

Judge Mwaimu further said that from 2020 to 2022, CHRAGG was monitoring the operations of the Police Force by conducting ten inquiries into claims against the force and visiting police stations in various parts of the country.

In these inquires, he said the Commission found, among others, beating and torture of suspects during arrest or while investigation is underway, for the goal of the Police Force obtaining information connected to illegal activities involving suspects, suffering bodily harm and sometimes death.

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Other issues include the existence of corruption allegations against some police officers, in the fact that some officers provide inaccurate information about issues brought up by the public.

"It is a fact that some police officers are found guilty and end up being sentenced to a felony that is irrelevant, and the fact that some suspects have been detained by the police for an extended period of time without being taken to court or given bail," said Judge Mwaimu.

He also mentioned lack of equipment, limited housing for police officers, shortage of police officers, and deteriorating infrastructure at police stations.

"Offences committed by police officers with criminal orientation should first be investigated by other independent public institutions or bodies that may be created in accordance with the law," he said.

He added: "To increase efficiency, the Police Force should implement the recommendations made by the commission,"
On June 1, Uzbekistan banned the export of cooking oil. The same day, Kyrgyzstan banned the export of sugar. Sugar is in short supply in areas of Kazakhstan and generally across the country and prices for meat, vegetables, cereals, and sugar in Kazakhstan have increased by some 15 percent since June 2021. This weeks Majlis Podcast looks at food security in Central Asia and what governments there are doing to ensure their populations have enough to eat.
SIGHNAGHI, Georgia -- It was from watching a video on YouTube that Tetyana learned her husband had been taken by the Russian Army.



Like many wives of missing Ukrainian soldiers and emergency-services personnel in Mariupol, Tetyana, a 49-year-old nurse, began monitoring the Telegram channel of the "Foreign Ministry" of territory controlled by Kremlin-backed separatists around Donetsk.



Several times a day, the feed is updated with photographs and videos of Ukrainians in captivity.



One afternoon, in a brightly lit hotel dining room, surrounded by playing children and with bags full of clothes lining the walls, Tetyana scrolls through dozens of posts -- forced confessions, mugshots, graphic photos of dead bodies -- and stops on an image of a young man's passport ID page. "When they post photos like this, it means that person is dead," she said.



Tetyana, who asks for her last name not to be included as her husband is still in captivity, is one of 30 people currently living in Hotel Pirosmani, a two-story red-brick building in the center of the town of Sighnaghi in Georgia's eastern region of Kakheti. Before March, the hotel had been full of visiting oenophiles and betrothed couples, who travel to this area for its natural wine production and the Sighnaghi wedding house, which marries people at any time of day.



Since Ukrainian refugees began arriving in Georgia in March, however, the hotel's owner decided to close the hotel to visitors and turn it into a shelter for Ukrainians fleeing the war.



A local priest and his wife, who previously worked as the hotel's receptionist, have become the informal caretakers of the hotel and its guests. The owner lives in Tbilisi and has said that the hotel will remain a shelter indefinitely. Only a battered, silver Mitsubishi with a Ukrainian license plate parked outside, the word "Children" spray-painted in Russian on the sides, offers a hint as to the hotel's new purpose.



"One of my colleagues told me about Georgia, about a place called Sighnaghi, the 'City of Love,' where they were taking in Ukrainians. I came straight here from the border," Tetyana says. An employee of a Mariupol hospital before the war started, Tetyana left her home city and made for Georgia with her two teenage children in April after spending nearly a month sheltering in a basement.



Before leaving, she registered her husband's capture with the Ukrainian military. "I have no idea where he is now," she said. First, Tetyana and her children traveled to Crimea on minibuses, spending a week in a rented apartment in Simferopol before advancing to the southern Russian city of Krasnodar. They crossed into Georgia through Verkhniy Lars in the Caucasus Mountains.

Tetyana is one of an estimated 20,000 Ukrainian refugees who have arrived in Georgia since the start of the war. Most are from devastated Ukrainian cities like Mariupol and Kherson.



Two common escape routes are emerging. Like Tetyana, many flee through Crimea and then on to Krasnodar before crossing into Georgia southward through the mountains. Others flee Mariupol through Novoazovsk before moving on to Taganrog and Rostov-on-Don. From there, they head south to the Russian border city of Vladikavkaz and onward to the Georgian border.



The so-called filtration camps are largely limited to the areas around Mariupol, and comparatively few Ukrainians who fled through Crimea report going through them. Established in cultural centers, police stations, and other public buildings, the camps document fleeing Ukrainians, detain Ukrainian soldiers, and sometimes forcibly deport Ukrainians to destinations in Russia to supposedly start a new life following their "liberation." Men are regularly ordered to strip at checkpoints, where Russian guards search their bodies for tattoos that could be suggestive of links with Ukrainian nationalist groups.

Nina and Yevhen Muravchenko spent a week living with their two children in the basement of Yevhen's brother's apartment block in Mariupol. The barrage of rockets and shelling outside was relentless.



"When there were still policemen around, we'd ask when the evacuation would happen," Yevhen said. "One told us that we'd know that they'd come through town with loudspeakers announcing it. But we never heard any loudspeakers. The evacuation never happened."



Like so many others living in besieged Mariupol, surviving required patience and enterprise. They took empty buckets and waited under rooftops for the snow to melt so they'd have water to drink. Food was scarce and often had to be bartered. Their home was lost to bombing raids. They drove directly to Sighnaghi from the Georgian border on April 21 and have been staying at the hotel ever since.

Stories of thirst, hunger, and a pervasive sense of fear shroud almost every tale of survival and escape of those who take refuge at Hotel Pirosmani. Nevertheless, a cheerful, collegiate atmosphere prevails. Those who enjoy cooking often help the cook to prepare meals; many of the women care for each other's children while their mothers rest. When the Red Cross offered the refugees psychological help, they refused, saying they didn't need it.



"People come here and we help them try to get rid of their horrible thoughts with excursions, concerts, theater performances and things like that," said Irma, the wife of Father Isidore, who runs the center. "When they're ready, they move on."



For Father Isidore, a 35-year-old local Georgian Orthodox priest with a long auburn beard and clad in traditional black robes, helping these refugees is a matter of religious principle. "It's our Christian duty. You need to help those who need it," he said. They rely on donations for food and clothes, but three months into the war and Father Isidore notes that many of their usual donors have begun to lose interest. "While there is the means to help them, we'll do it, whether that's two months or two years."



The demographic of Ukrainian refugees in Georgia differs from that of Western European countries. Unlike in places like Poland and Moldova, where it is mainly women and children who have fled without their husbands or fathers, in Georgian refugee centers like Hotel Pirosmani, many of the families have both parents present, and occasionally men travelling alone. Without an official Ukrainian border to cross in the Russian-occupied parts of the east, Ukraine's martial law, which bans men between the ages of 18 and 60 without extenuating circumstances from leaving the country, does not apply.



Before the clatter of lunchtime began, 72-year-old former Soviet women's chess champion Nana Alexandria was paying a visit to one of the guests. She had been informed by the head of Sighnaghi's chess club that Polina, a 14-year-old junior chess champion from Kherson, a city in southern Ukraine that is under Russian control, was staying at the hotel.



Polina and her mother, Svitlana, who did not give their last names, had fled Kherson through Crimea and had heard about Hotel Pirosmani from acquaintances. They don't plan to stay in Georgia for long. "We're waiting for the end of the war so we can go home," Svitlana says. Both were delighted to have met Nana, who gave Polina a chess set. "And she told me I had to keep practicing!" Polina said.

By nightfall, Irma and Father Isidore usually return to their home in a nearby village with their five young children. They seldom stay the night at the hotel. "I was pleased when I heard a guest tell her daughter, 'It's time to go home,'" she said. "'Home' meant their room upstairs. It means they feel like they're at home here. This is Georgia. We don't want them to feel like guests."
The death toll in the collapse of a high-rise building in the southwestern Iranian city of Abadan has risen to 41, Iranian officials stated on June 6.

Ehsun Abbaspour, the governor of the city of Abadan, cited the new figure in an interview with the state news agency IRNA on June 6.

"Efforts are continuing to find other possible bodies under the rubble by the emergency crews present at the site," Abbaspour said.

Iranian officials have not said how many people are still considered missing in the accident.

Thirty-seven people were injured when the 10-story residential and commercial building collapsed.

Authorities have blamed the collapse of the building on local corruption and lax safety and say 13 people, including mayors and other officials, have so far been arrested for construction violations.

Protesters have been gathering at the scene of the disaster, denouncing officials and calling for accountability. The authorities have reportedly restricted Internet access in the area to prevent locals from sharing videos or communicating with one another.

President Ebrahim Raisi made a surprise visit to the city on June 3, offering his condolences to relatives of victims. Raisi vowed that the government would deal with the offenders and monitor construction more closely in the future.

Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei mentioned the incident in a speech on June 4, saying those responsible must be brought to justice.

Based on reporting by IRNA
Exit polls indicate that more than 70 percent of Kazakh voters who participated in a constitutional referendum on June 5 favored the changes it proposed.

The Institute for Comprehensive Social Research said its poll indicated the amendments were approved by 76.7 percent of voters, while the research institute Kogamdyk piki said that according to its exit poll 74.8 percent were in favor.

The Eurasian Monitoring Center for Analytical Research reported that 76.7 percent voted in favor of the amendments.

Officials said after polls closed across the country that turnout was 68 percent. The figure does not take into account votes cast by Kazakhs abroad.

In order to be adopted, more than 50 percent of voters in at least 12 of the country's 17 regions must cast ballots in favor of the amendments.

President Qasym-Zhomart Toqaev has said the referendum will shift the country from a "super-presidential form of government to a presidential republic with a strong parliament."

The referendum on some 56 proposed changes to the constitution came after the country was rocked by deadly unrest in January that ended the longtime grip on power of the Kazakhstan's first president, Nursultan Nazarbaev.

Nazarbaev handpicked Toqaev to be his successor after he resigned in 2019. The referendum was seen as an attempt by Toqaev, 69, to formalize Nazarbaev's "retirement" and ensure his departure from the political scene.

Nazarbaev, 81, voted in the capital, Nur-Sultan. He was seen in a short video dropping his ballot into the ballot box and leaving the polling station with a wave of his hand, but with no comment to reporters.

Government opponents had called on Toqaev to postpone the referendum, saying people had not been given enough time to study the proposals. Others said the voting should be canceled altogether.

WATCH: Opposition activists chanted slogans at a polling station in Almaty. Supporters of the unregistered, opposition Democratic Party demonstrated while casting ballots, calling for the release of detained party leader Zhanbolat Mamai.

Police in Almaty detained Kazakh activist Darkhan Sharipov, who protested against the referendum, which he said would only achieve "partial reforms, not political ones."

In some cities and districts in the Qaraghandy region, where an RFE/RL reporter visited polling stations and talked with people in the streets, not all of the residents understood exactly what they were voting for and what specifically would change in the constitution.

In Prishakhtinsk, a suburb of Qaraghandy, some of the voters asked members of the commission to acquaint them with the amendments.

Ksenia Sinitsyna, secretary of polling station 120, told RFE/RL that voters were provided with information, including in printed form, and their questions were answered. Some voters took the printouts home to study them and then returned to vote, Sinitsyna said.

The changes would bar the country's president from being a member of a political party while holding office. Perhaps even more importantly, relatives of the president would not be allowed to hold any key positions in the public sector.

That measure is seen as an attempt to prevent the incredible depth of nepotism that occurred under Nazarbaev.

The number of Senate members appointed by the president would be reduced from the current 15 to 10.

But the president would maintain the right to appoint the prime minister, the cabinet members, the prosecutor-general, the security chief, the heads of the National Bank, and the Central Election Commission along with several other key posts.

The chief executive would also retain the power to appoint provincial governors and the mayors of cities, including the capital, despite widespread calls from public activists for governors and mayors to be elected by voters.

The right to appoint powerful regional governors is seen as an important political tool for the president, as governors can be used to swing an election by controlling the voting process in the authoritarian country where international observers say free and fair elections are not held.

The one who stands to lose the most if the referendum is approved is Nazarbaev, who led Kazakhstan from 1990 until 2019 and enjoyed significant political sway as ex-president until the bloody nationwide unrest in January that left at least 238 people dead.

The revised constitution removes all references to Nazarbaev as "elbasy" (leader of the nation), which would cement his fall from grace that began with demands by anti-government protesters to end his family's grip on the country's politics and riches.

Nazarbaev and his close relatives would also lose their lifelong immunity from prosecution if the referendum is approved.

The constitutional overhaul would reduce the number or lawmakers in the Mazhilis, or lower house of parliament, to 98 from the current 107 members.

The Senate would also lose its power to make new laws but would vote on bills passed by the Mazhilis and as well as vote to confirm nominations for prosecutor-general, security chief, and other key positions submitted by the president.

Many analysts have seen the referendum as a bid by Toqaev to prepare for the next presidential election, scheduled for 2024.

Some observers reported irregularities, according to RFE/RL. In the western region, an observer reported that ballots were in the ballot box before the start of voting, and RFE/RL reporters were barred from reporting from some polling stations.

Kazakhstan has been rated "not free" by the U.S.-based NGO Freedom House, which has said its "parliamentary and presidential elections are neither free nor fair, and major parties exhibit continued loyalty to the government."
Russian President Vladimir Putin has threatened to "strike at those targets that we have not yet been hitting" in Ukraine if the West provides Kyiv with longer-range weaponry.

In excerpts of an interview for Rossia-1 state television broadcast on June 5, Putin said the "fuss" around providing Western weaponry to Ukraine was a ploy to draw out the conflict.

Putin did not specify what new targets Russia might strike.

Russia launched its unprovoked war on Ukraine on February 24. Tens of thousands of people have been killed and millions displaced in the more than 100 days of fighting since then.

Live Briefing: Russia's Invasion Of Ukraine RFE/RL's Live Briefing gives you all of the major developments on Russia's invasion, how Kyiv is fighting back, the plight of civilians, and Western reaction. For all of RFE/RL's coverage of the war, click here.

Russia has not released much information about its losses during the conflict, but Western and Ukrainian analysts have said they have been far greater than Moscow originally anticipated.

Ukraine has been seeking advanced multiple-rocket launch systems such as the M270 and the M142 HIMARS in order to be able to strike in the rear of Russian forces.

U.S. President Joe Biden said last week that he would provide the HIMARS system to Ukraine after being assured it would not be used to strike targets inside Russia.

Spain's El Pais newspaper reported on June 5 that Madrid plans to supply anti-aircraft missiles and Leopard battle tanks to Ukraine. Madrid plans to train Ukrainian servicemen in the use of the weapons at a base in Latvia, where Spain has already deployed 500 troops.

Putin said the new weaponry for Ukraine was intended "to make up for the losses" of Ukrainian equipment and would not "change anything in essence."

"This is nothing new," he said.

In an excerpt from the same interview released on June 4, Putin said Russian air-defense systems had been destroying Ukrainian drones and "cracking them like nuts."

In a guest essay in The New York Times on May 31, U.S. President Joe Biden wrote that his administration had agreed to provide Ukrainian forces "with more advanced rocket systems and munitions that will enable them to more precisely strike key targets on the battlefield in Ukraine."

However, he added that the United States was "not encouraging or enabling Ukraine to strike beyond its borders."

The United States has hesitated to turn over such heavy artillery amid concerns it could provoke Russia, analysts said.

Some analysts say the administration's internal debate on weapons supplies has lost precious time for Ukraine. "All of our decisions have been late," Ben Hodges, a former commander of the U.S. Army Europe, told RFE/RL.

With reporting by Reuters, AP, and AFP
BELGRADE -- "Every step toward imposing sanctions will only damage Serbia, not Russia," said Andrej Mitic, the international secretary of the far-right Dveri party, over a glass of lemonade in the regal lobby of Belgrade's Hotel Moskva. "For that reason we see these current anti-Russian policies as anti-Serbian policies.... We see great dangers to the interests and values of the [Serbian] people."

As Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic faces international pressure to join EU sanctions on Russia for its February 24 invasion of Ukraine, it is politicians from Serbia's far right -- politicians such as Mitic -- who are being the most vocal in urging the government to ignore EU wishes and support Russia.

So far, Vucic, who was sworn in for a second presidential term on May 31, has held the line and refused to join EU sanctions, which have targeted Russia's energy and financial sectors, and high-profile individuals. Serbia's national interests, the president has argued, depend on maintaining friendly relations with all of its international partners, not just Brussels.

Within the EU, Vucic has faced criticism from politicians and diplomats. Carl Bildt, who served as the EU's special envoy to the former Yugoslavia in the 1990s, said on February 28 that Serbia's position on the Russian invasion should disqualify it from the EU accession process. And on March 21, Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis called for countries to face penalties for doing business with Russia.

Although Vucic won a landslide in April 3 presidential, parliamentary, and municipal elections, two ultranationalist parties entered Serbia's parliament, a rightward shift that Vucic blamed on the fallout from Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

A relative newcomer on Serbia's political scene, Dveri served a single parliamentary term between 2016-2020 and reentered the national assembly in April, along with another ultranationalist party, the Serbian Oath Keepers Party, who were entering for the first time.

"Dveri supports Russia's current political position and believes that Russia has been forced to respond after being besieged by NATO," Mitic said, his soft-spoken voice and polite demeanor jarring against his populist rhetoric and hard-line Euroskeptic views.

For Serbia, it is not an easy geopolitical decision. The EU is the country's main economic benefactor and trade partner, but Belgrade is totally dependent upon Russian energy imports and relies on Moscow's geopolitical support to block international recognition of Kosovo's independence. Throughout Vucic's decade-long spell in government, where he served as both prime minister and president, Serbia has remained neutral, opportunistically shifting its geopolitical loyalties from the EU, Russia, and China whenever it saw fit.

Mitic serves as the intellectual backbone of Dveri and is, in his own words, tasked with translating political theory into concrete policies for the party. His background is in political philosophy and he says he left academia to join the party as an adviser in 2018. He is also Dveri's spokesman for the international media and his contemplative demeanor stands in stark contrast to the party's domestic image, which is so firmly associated with its rowdy, firebrand leader, Bosko Obradovic.

When asked to elaborate on his support for Russia, Mitic points to Serbia's reliance on Russian energy and Moscow's support over Kosovo, as well as the long-enduring historical and cultural ties between the two "brotherly" nations. When pressed on a solution to the vexed issue of sanctions, he says that Dveri's official position is that any such decision should be put to the Serbian people in a referendum.

The Oath Keepers, who also won 10 parliamentary seats and just under 4 percent of the vote in April's elections, also support a referendum on sanctions. In a May 12 press conference, where only two journalists were present, the party's leader, Milica Djurdjevic-Stamenkovski, laid out her position on Russia, which is identical to that of Dveri: no to sanctions and any such decision must be put to a referendum.

Djurdjevic-Stamenkovski came to public prominence in 2008, when she took a leading role in the violent protests that erupted after Kosovo's unilateral declaration of independence from Serbia. She has been a mainstay of right-wing street politics in the country ever since, also taking part in demonstrations expressing support for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and Putin's annexation of Crimea.

When RFE/RL asked Djurdjevic-Stamenkovski why there should be a referendum on the sanctions issue when the Serbian people just handed the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) a commanding mandate, she said that "Serbian-Russian relations are a centuries-old constant in Serbian society."

"The issue of sanctions against the Russian Federation is far more specific, painful, and would have more drastic consequences for our country than some other state," Djurdjevic-Stamenkovski said. That is why, she adds, any move that could potentially jeopardize these ties should only be decided by a nationwide vote.

Ideologically there is little to separate Dveri and the Oath Keepers. Both parties are ultranationalistic, oppose Kosovo's independence, and advocate for closer ties with Russia. The main difference between the two is that Dveri supports a return to monarchic rule, promotes religiously conservative views, and has a less thuggish reputation than the Oath Keepers, whose protests have frequently led to violence and disorder in the past. A standout example came in October 2020, when the party protested against ethnic Albanian artists from Kosovo exhibiting their work in Belgrade.

Despite the minor differences, the two parties are natural allies and Mitic confirmed to RFE/RL that Dveri has held talks with the Oath Keepers and other pro-Russian bedfellows, the Socialist Party, on how they can use their combined parliamentary platform to keep the pressure on Vucic to prevent the president making concessions on sanctions.

The pro-Russian bloc, which also includes the center-right Democratic Party, holds 66 out of 250 parliamentary seats in Serbia's new parliament -- just over half the number of seats belonging to the ruling SNS. That doesn't mean, however, that Vucic has no cause for concern. According to Belgrade-based political analyst Dragomir Andjelkovic, the real danger of Serbia signing up to sanctions on Russia comes from the potential revolt within Vucic's own party.

"I believe that any move of this kind by Vucic would provoke a huge backlash inside the SNS," Andjelkovic said. "Their voters are against sanctioning Russia and most party members share the same views with the majority of party officials. Of course, at the top of the party, officials will remain silent and nod along, but [sanctions] would lead to serious protests on the lower levels and among the party base."

Not just within the SNS, Vucic will likely be wary of how the Serbian public would react if the government joined sanctions against Russia. Mitic said that imposing sanctions would cause a public backlash so strong that it would "topple the government." When asked about this possibility, Andjelkovic said that he was "sure" that a decision to impose sanctions would "cause mass unrest that would bring people out into the streets."

In early March, not long after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the People's Patrol, Serbia's most prominent ultranationalist street movement, held a pro-Russian protest that swamped downtown Belgrade. Since then, the party has followed up with intermittent, albeit smaller, demonstrations. The group's 33-year-old leader, Damnjan Knezevic, is confident that mass dissatisfaction has the potential to overpower Vucic's political dominance in Serbia.

"The people unfortunately can't do very much, but what they can do is give legitimacy or express their opposition to specific political decisions by taking to the streets," Knezevic said. "We had that in July 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, where the majority of the Serbian people didn't want to go back into lockdown.... We're the only country in the region that didn't have a second lockdown. As far as the situation around Russia is concerned, I'm absolutely certain that we'll be even more aggressive."

Serbia is often perceived as instinctively a nation of Russophiles, but the reality is more complex. In March, Demostat, a respected Belgrade-based polling agency, released a study that found that only 21 percent of the public believed that Serbia should side with Russia. Yet, in April, a survey found that 76 percent of Serbian citizens oppose joining sanctions against Russia. So, people didn't want to side with Russia, but they also didn't want to put sanctions on it.

Demostat's study also found that 50 percent believe that Serbia should remain unaligned, regardless of the cost. Plus, many Serbs are motivated by their antipathy for the West. Andjelkovic says that much of the West's lack of popularity is due to enduring resentment over Western sanctions and military action against Serbia during the 1990s, rather than widespread Russophilia.

"People are aware that the West has wronged us in the past," Andjelkovic said. "So, for them, it ultimately seems irrational and self-defeating to turn against someone who has consistently supported us just because of the demands of those who have undermined us in the past and continue to do so."

Vucic's dilemma is complicated by the fact that the EU is essential to the Serbian economy. Over 63 percent of Serbia's trade is with the EU, while over 77 percent of direct foreign investment and an overwhelming majority of development aid comes from the bloc, aid that some Serbian politicians fear could be nixed if they continue to oppose sanctions.

"Any sort of cutting ties [with the EU] or the loss of [candidate] status would be damaging to Serbia in multiple dimensions, not just through the economic support that Serbia gets from the EU," said Igor Novakovic, research director at the International and Security Affairs Center in Belgrade. Serbia was granted EU candidate status in 2012.

"Investors calculate that Serbia will someday become a member of the EU and will, in the coming period, nurture extremely strong ties with the European Union. So this could be a strong warning to some investors to withdraw [from Serbia]."

Yet despite these concerns, Serbia's right-wing opposition is dismissive of the dangers. Oath Keepers leader Djurdjevic-Stamenkovski has said that "foreign investors would leave Serbia much sooner if Serbia imposed sanctions on Russia" because of the "increase in energy prices that would follow as a direct consequence," whereas Dveri's Mitic says that Serbian citizens would barely feel anything at all.

"In regard to these [foreign] investments and everything else, the Serbian people see very little benefit from them," Mitic said nonchalantly. "There are some benefits, but it mostly goes to either the NGO sector or to endless reforms that are an end in themselves.... The Serbian people have received very little that's of benefit over the past 22 years."

For now, Vucic seems to be biding his time. "If we look at things long-term, it's possible that there would be even graver consequences if we don't impose sanctions," Andjelkovic said. "But it's difficult for the government to measure that and overlook its current problems because of something that might happen in the future."

So which way does he think that Vucic will ultimately fall?

"I think that, as a pragmatic politician, Vucic will act in accordance with both his own party and other interests and delay [a decision] as much as possible so he can buy himself more time while he waits to see how things play out in Ukraine," Andjelkovic said. "In the coming months, I'm sure that Serbia won't impose sanctions, but we'll have to see what happens further down the road."
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy says a "threatening situation" has developed in Zaporizhzhya, where Russian troops intend to capture the region's main city even while they fight for control of the eastern city of Syevyerodonetsk.



"The enemy wants to...occupy the city of Zaporizhzhya," Zelenskiy told a news conference on June 6.



The General Staff of the Ukrainian armed forces also said that Russian troops are strengthening in the direction of Zaporizhzhya. Capture of the southeastern city would allow the Russian military to advance closer to the center of the country.



The Zaporizhzhya region, parts of which have already been taken by Russia, is one of the biggest industrial regions of Ukraine's southeast.



Zelenskiy, who on June 5 visited Lysychansk and Soledar, two cities close to some of the most intense fighting, also spoke about fighting in the Donbas. He said that in the Luhansk region the Ukrainian resistance continues in Syevyerodonetsk, one of the two key cities in the region still not in Russian hands.



"There are more of them, they are more powerful, but we have every chance to fight on this direction," Zelenskiy said.



In the northeastern Kharkiv region, the Ukrainian Army "step by step de-occupies our lands" from Russian invaders, Zelenskiy said.



He also said the country was hoping to create secure corridors that would allow its ships to export grain from Black Sea ports blocked by the fighting. Ukraine is in talks with Turkey and Britain about security guaranties for Ukrainian ships carrying grain, he said.



"It is important for us that there is a security corridor...that the fleet of this or that country ensures the shipping of the grain," Zelenskiy said.



Grain exports were a topic of discussion at the UN Security Council in New York, where European Council President Charles Michel blamed the Kremlin for a looming global food crisis.



Michel addressed Russian Ambassador Vasily Nebenzya directly at a council meeting on June 6, saying he saw millions of tons of grain and wheat stuck in containers and ships at the Ukrainian port of Odesa a few weeks ago because of Russian warships in the Black Sea.



His comments prompted Nebenzya to walk out.



Thousands have been caught in the crossfire in Syevyerodonetsk as Governor Serhiy Hayday says Russian forces have turned to "scorched-earth tactics.

Hayday said Russian shelling on June 6 was also targeting Syevyerodonetsk's twin city of Lysychansk. He said Russia had devoted a "simply incredible" number of troops and equipment to bombarding the main access road to Lysychansk and Syevyerodonetsk, which runs between Bakhmut and Lysychansk.

Live Briefing: Russia's Invasion Of Ukraine RFE/RL's Live Briefing gives you all of the major developments on Russia's invasion, how Kyiv is fighting back, the plight of civilians, and Western reaction. For all of RFE/RL's coverage of the war, click here.

Separately, the chief of Ukraine's military intelligence said fighting around Syevyerodonetsk now represented the "hottest" area of conflict in Ukraine.

General Kyrylo Budanov said Ukrainian forces were making progress against the Russians in the important eastern railway hub despite "a tenfold advantage of the enemy in artillery."

It was not possible to independently verify the claim.

Oleksandr Stryuk, mayor of Syevyerodonetsk, said the situation was "changing from hour to hour" and it was unclear which side had the upper hand.

Russian troops also are targeting Slovyansk, in the Donetsk region of eastern Ukraine, and have resumed their offensive near Svyatyhorsk, some 20 kilometers north of Slovyansk, suffering losses, the General Staff of Ukraine's armed forces said.

Thousands of people have fled Slovyansk, a city with a prewar population of around 100,000, but some 30,000 are still inside.

British intelligence suggested on June 6 that the Russian troops' push toward Slovyansk is part of their attempted encirclement of Ukrainian forces.

In a move coordinated with the United States, Britain said it would supply Ukraine with multiple-launch rocket systems that can strike targets up to 80 kilometers away, providing the more precise, long-range firepower needed to strike Russian artillery batteries.

Defense Secretary Ben Wallace said the M270 multiple-launch rocket system will help Ukraine defend itself against Russia. No number was cited, but according to sources quoted by the BBC there will initially be three systems.



The United States announced last week it was also supplying a HIMARS rocket system that can fire rockets precisely to a distance of up to 80 kilometers.

U.S. President Joe Biden said he would provide the HIMARS system to Ukraine after being assured it would not be used to strike targets inside Russia.

The Ukrainians had requested the longer-range systems that can hit targets up to 300 kilometers away in order to be able to strike in the rear of Russian forces, but Washington was reluctant to provide them.

The British M270 multiple launch rocket system can fire 12 surface-to-surface missiles within a minute and can strike targets within 80 kilometers with pinpoint accuracy. However, the technical description of the M270 says that, depending on munitions used, it can reach targets as far away as 300 kilometers.



Russian President Vladimir Putin warned on June 5 that Moscow would strike new targets if Washington supplied long-range missiles to Ukraine.

Putin told Rossia-1 TV channel that if U.S. multiple-launch rocket systems (MLRS) were supplied to Ukraine, "we will draw appropriate conclusions from this and use our own weapons, of which we have enough, in order to strike at those facilities we are not targeting yet."

Delivering new arms to Kyiv would only "drag out the armed conflict for as long as possible," Putin said.

Explosions rocked the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, on June 5, Ukrainian officials said.

Britain's Defense Ministry said in its daily intelligence bulletin on June 6 that the Russian Kh-101 air-launched cruise missiles had struck rail infrastructure in Kyiv, and were "likely in an attempt disrupt the supply of Western military equipment to frontline Ukrainian units."

Ukraine's military said late on June 5 that a senior Kremlin-backed separatist commander had been killed in battle.

The news was first broken by Russian state media journalist Aleksandr Sladkov on June 5, who did not say precisely when and where Major General Roman Kutuzov was killed.

The Strategic Communications Administration of Ukrainian military said late on June 5 that Kutuzov had been "officially denazified and demilitarized" -- a mocking reference to Putin's declared goal of "de-Nazifying and demilitarizing" Ukraine -- while leading an attack on a village near the town of Popasna in the Luhansk region.

Several Russian generals have been killed since the February 24 start of the invasion, though Moscow has only officially confirmed the death of four. Ukraine at one point claimed that as many as seven had been killed in the conflict, only for two of them to later turn up alive.

With reporting by Reuters, BBC, CNN, AFP, and AP
Ukraine's harvested crops risk rotting in silos or ships after Russia's February invasion, triggering fears of worsening global hunger.

Before the war, Ukraine exported more than 5 million metric tons of grain every month, most of it via its ports on the Black Sea.

But now Russian warships block those ports, making such shipments impossible, and dealing a blow to global food supplies, not to mention Ukraine's agricultural sector.

Ukraine, its neighbors, and the EU, are now scrambling to find other routes to get Ukrainian grain to market, with rail emerging as a viable option despite a legion of logistical challenges.

Ukraine contributes 42 percent of the sunflower oil traded on the global market, 16 percent of the corn, and 9 percent of the wheat -- and entire countries, especially in the Middle East and Africa, are dependent on Ukrainian imports of those products.

World Food Program Executive Director David Beasley has warned that Russia's invasion of Ukraine risks turning "the breadbasket of the world to breadlines" for millions of people.

Russia has said it will lift the blockade if Western sanctions are lifted, a demand Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba has characterized as an attempt at "blackmail."

Ukraine also accuses Russia of looting its grain and trying to sell it to other countries, and the UN says there is anecdotal evidence backing that charge.

Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis has proposed creating a naval mission involving a "coalition of the willing" to escort Ukrainian ships across the Black Sea. So far, that idea remains just that, amid fears of an escalation of the conflict.

While the amount of grain being shipped out -- some 760,000 metric tons in early May by rail -- experts caution that new plans to use trains to transport the grain are only a stopgap solution.

"If you look at those figures, I mean, it's good. But to put it in perspective, there are more than 20 million tons of grain in Ukraine that need to go to the outside world," said Harry Nedelcu, director of policy and business development at Rasmussen Global, a think tank founded by former NATO Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen.

"Ukraine actually still controls 80 percent of its territory. So, 80 percent of that farmland has been worked and the grains are there. It's just that 90 percent of Ukraine's exports go through Odesa mostly. And those [ports] are not available. It's very difficult to replace that by rail," Nedelcu told RFE/RL, predicting the crop conundrum could become even more of a challenge once the summer crop is harvested.

Ghost Ships

Andriy Stavnitser, co-owner of the TIS grain terminal near Odesa, says shortly after Russia launched its unprovoked invasion of Ukraine on February 24, the country's Black Sea ports halted operations, blocked by Russian mines and warships.

"There are about 80 ships stranded in Ukrainian ports. Some of them are empty. Some have cargo. Their crews are dispersed all over the world. They are essentially ghost ships that cannot leave Ukraine," Stavnitser told Current Time in mid-May.

Ukraine is losing about $15 billion by not getting grain to market, Stavnitser estimates. "It's a colossal blow to the Ukrainian economy and to Ukrainian farmers," he told Current Time, the Russian-language network led by RFE/RL in cooperation with VOA.

In Brussels, European Transport Commissioner Adina Valean called the challenge of circumventing the Russian naval blockade "gigantesque," and said on May 12 that the European Commission will work with EU governments to put in place effective new transport routes for Ukrainian grain.

The European Commission announced it was establishing what it coined "solidarity lanes" to ensure Ukraine can export grain, promising billions of euros in investment in infrastructure.

As of now, Ukrainian agricultural goods are only being taken out of Ukraine over land or on barges via the Danube River, with rail being the preferred mode of transport. But bottlenecks have arisen due to the different rail gauge used in Ukraine, dating back to the Soviet era. That means shipments are being transferred to new wagons at the border.

Ukrainian Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov has targeted the upgrading of rail infrastructure in western Ukraine as a priority the EU should focus on. "Rail transport can partially undertake all the transportation of agricultural products, particularly grain," he said. "However, transporting goods is difficult due to western Ukraine's low border-crossing capacity, which is not designed for transshipping such volumes."

Despite the logistical logjam and the ever-present threat of Russian military strikes, more and more Ukrainian agricultural goods are getting shipped on railroad tracks.

Some 768,300 metric tons of Ukrainian grain was exported by rail between May 1 and May 16, which compares with 642,500 metric tons in April and 415,900 metric tons in March, according to the country's state-owned railway company, Ukrzaliznytsia, cited by the Argus blog, which covers commodity markets.

Those numbers are expected to continue rising in the coming months amid deepening cooperation between Ukraine and its neighbors and partners.

Lithuania received its first rail delivery of grain from Ukraine for onward shipment from its Baltic Sea port of Klaipeda, state-owned railway company LTG said on May 24. "We expect to scale up to receiving a train per day from Ukraine, each with up to 1,500 metric tons of grain and other agricultural produce, for export via Klaipeda port," LTG spokesman Mantas Dubauskas said.

And in Austria, a train carrying 2,000 metric tons of Ukrainian corn arrived on May 6.

Standing in front of a rail car adorned with the Austrian and Ukrainian flags, Austrian Agriculture, Sustainability, and Tourism Minister Elisabeth Koestinger said the shipment marked the establishment of a "green corridor" for important cargo shipments between the two countries. "Grain and animal feed exports can't leave Ukraine via the sea route. That's why we are creating green corridors," she said.

Ukrainian Ambassador to Austria Vasyl Khymynets called the new land route an important symbol of Ukraine's cooperation with its partners. "We are looking for routes to supply the world with food," he said. Khymynets added that 600,000 metric tons of Ukrainian grain could potentially be exported every month via various land routes.

Other countries have also started setting up their own "green corridor" routes, Koestinger said. Such land routes have been used during the war to help civilians trying to flee the fighting.

Austrian Railways has already been carrying Ukrainian cargo three times a week to northern Germany via Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and Poland on trains that can carry up to 2,000 metric tons.

In what was described as a first, Czech Railroads recently transported 1,800 metric tons of Ukrainian corn to the EU. The corn cargo was due to be shipped to Egypt from the German port of Brake.

Romanian Help?

Bordering Ukraine and also with Black Sea access, Romania -- and specifically its port at Constanta -- has also played an integral part in Ukrainian efforts to circumvent Russia's naval blockade.

Trains, trucks, and barges are being used to transport Ukrainian agricultural produce from small Danube ports such as Reni and Izmayil in southwest Ukraine.

But it's time consuming and infrastructure is lacking, notes policy director Nedelcu. "There are some challenges because you have to transport by rail and you have to put it on the European railway network because it's not the same size. Then you have to go down through Romania, down to Constanta. Or you go by barge across the Danube and then you go down to Constanta."

Waiting times of up to 30 days at the customs border crossing at Sirets have been reported, according to RFE/RL's Romanian Service, and 28 days at the crossing at Halmeu.

Bulgaria says it is willing to help export Ukrainian stocks from its port in Varna and is currently upgrading its infrastructure.

The conundrum may well grow trickier in the coming months, when Ukraine's summer crops of wheat, barley, and corn are due to be harvested in July and August, also putting pressure on domestic storage capacity, UN officials have said.

And it won't only be Ukraine harvesting its crops, Nedelcu points out, highlighting another potential problem. "We have to keep in mind that it's not just Constanta, it's a few ports in Poland and elsewhere, but these countries are going to get their own grain. They have to ship their grain as well. Romania also has its own grain it has to ship," Nedelcu noted.

"Once the summer months hit, then you're basically going to have this challenge of getting...the grain from Ukraine rerouted, but also having the grain from these countries going through. So, you know, that's a challenge."
THE High Court's Corruption and Economic Crime Division has ordered drug dealer Wolfgang Lwamtonga to remain behind bars for 25 years for trafficking in heroin hydrochloride weighing 2.49 kilogrammes.

Judge Elinaza Luvanda ruled against the accused recently after holding that the prosecution proved the economic case beyond reasonable doubt, having taken into consideration the evidence tendered by witnesses.

"Therefore, the accused is found guilty and is convicted for the offence of trafficking in narcotic drugs," the judge ruled. Before imposing the sentence, the prosecution led by Senior State Attorney Clamence Kato had asked the court to have the accused person given a deserving sentence.

The trial attorney told the court that imposing severe sentence was essential as narcotic drugs have adverse effects to the entire community. On the other side, Advocate Ole Mkulagwa for the accused had pleaded for lenient sentence.

He submitted that his client was a first offender, has been in custody for four years and he was young, thus the nation still needs him for economic development. The counsel further argued that the accused person has dependents, notably a wife and a child, who both depend on him.

After considering the submissions by both parties, the judge was of the view that the accused person deserved a lenient sentence and be accommodated under Tanzania Sentencing Manual for Judicial Officers, which stipulate a minimum of twenty years and maximum of thirty years to the offender.

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According to section 15(l) (c) of the Drugs Control and Enforcement Act No. 5 of 2015 as amended, the penal for the offence under which the accused person was charged with is life imprisonment.

However, Judge Luvanda took into consideration the Tanzania Sentencing Manual for Judiciary Officers, which scale down to 30 years' maximum and 20 years minimum and the submissions presented by both parties relating to mitigation and aggravating factors.

"In view of the fact that the accused is a first offender, he is sentenced to 25 years' imprisonment," he declared. Before reaching the conclusion, the judge evaluated the evidence tendered by both parties into trial and was satisfied that the offence in question was proved beyond reasonable doubt.

The counsel for the accused had submitted, among others, that prosecution witnesses gave contradictory evidence in relation to the colour of the narcotic drugs, which were allegedly seized from the bag of his client wrapped in two packets.
Ali Pastorini is the co-owner of Del Lima Jewelry and President of Mujeres Brillantes, an association that brings together more than 1,000 women working in the gold and diamond trading sector, mainly from Latin America, as well as from Turkey, Spain, Italy, and Germany. The mission of Mujeres Brillantes is to help women in the jewelry and watchmaking sectors consolidate their business in order to exchange professional skills and experience. In the immediate past, Ali Pastorini was also Senior Vice President of the World Jewelry Hub in Panama.

In this interview with Rough&Polished she talks about the situation in the diamond industry.

Do you expect an increase in diamond prices due to the decline in global diamond production?

It is natural that this price increase occurs, it is the law of supply and demand. To compensate for your production and all the limitations for it to occur, the price will increase so that there is still profit, the consequence is that this affects the buyer who is looking for that product that is scarcer to find on the market.

Do you think that the demand for diamond jewelry will grow?

Probably yes, when a product such as gold and diamond, which are naturally high-value products, has a decrease in production, the consumer tends to look for this product as an investment( be it in rough, polished or even diamond jewelry).This is not the first time, and in my opinion it will not be the last, that our industry has experienced adversity, and we must learn from past events.

Scenarios like the current one have shown us in the past that the consumer seeks to buy diamond jewelry, because despite the low volatility in terms of investment, it is still a safe way to buy a product that will not devalue regardless of the consequences of an atypical scenario.

Is it possible to talk about competition between natural diamonds and LGD?

Whenever people ask me this, I always answer: "Why do you need to compete and not coexist?". I think there is a market for both, in fact we already see that there is a market for both.

Consumers of natual diamonds and LGD have different consumption profiles, from their lifestyle and financial condition,which means that in practice they are not opponents. So if they are not opponents I don't see why insisting on this idea that natural diamonds compete directly with LDG.

And I repeat once again what I have already said on this topic, if natural diamond companies feel threatened with LGD, perhaps it is time to evaluate and improve their way of communicating with consumers, educating them and showing them the advantages of natural diamond. It will not be by way of complaining and hoping that the demand for LDG will decrease that will improve your company's natural diamond sales. Your company's sales will only increase if you effectively focus on improving your company's marketing and service. The jewelry consumer does not evaluate the brand only by price.

Can the depletion of diamond deposits increase consumer demand for other types of precious stones?

It can, but I don't believe it's in the same proportion as the search for diamonds. Of course, when there is a shortage of a product, you naturally look for substitutes, but I don't think it will be more than diamonds.

Do you agree that too much emphasis on sustainability issues can be counterproductive and unprofitable for diamond jewelry sales?

I fully agree!

Before I proceed with my answer, it is important to make it clear that the environment and sustainability agenda are very important and must be constantly debated. That said, it is important for us to understand the importance of the free market and its advantages such as employment, fighting poverty and hunger, generating new opportunities, etc...

When we focus only on sustainability as a sign of virtue, instead of analyzing the scenario in a broader and deeper way, we fail to discuss important aspects of economic and social development that directly impact civilizations, especially in the poorest regions. What worries me are colleagues in the sector with some speeches that "demonize" natural diamond, diamond mines, gold mines, etc.

And when they do it, they are preventing us from having a serious and healthy debate about a subject that goes beyond the environment and well-being. I am not quoting in this answer colleagues from the sector who go to the field, or who have real and serious projects in Africa or Latin America on this topic.

Interestingly, these colleagues aren't radical and in the opportunities I've had to give my point of view, generally Ive received a great feedback where we've been able to discuss what's the most viable way to resolve this issue. Even if at the end of the conversation we don't agree, there is still a deep mutual respect and understanding that both parties want the best for the world.

However, we cannot be afraid to debate this and see it from the angle of not being profitable, because if it is not profitable, the company loses investment strength, losing investment strength you decrease your number of employees which means increase the number of unemployment and consequently stagnating development of a region.

And when you stagnate the development of a region, it is not just those who work directly with our sector that lose, but all the people around them, even family members, such as parents who paid for their children's schools to have a better future full of opportunities, or small businesses that are opened when a region grows, providing more economic freedom and entrepreneurship to those who had no opportunity.

Again, this is a topic that should not be used as a political agenda or sign of virtue. There are deeper aspects to be analyzed than just beautiful speeches.

Can diamond cutting and polishing technologies eventually replace human hands?

I don't believe it fully. there are techniques that in jewelry are more beautiful with the human touch. So I think that technology comes as a strong ally, mainly for speed in production, but I believe that the identity and differential of a jewel is still thanks to manual work. I noticed many events and Jewelry Shows, mainly in Europe, aware that technology helps but cannot be the protagonist, it will always be and we must continue to encourage human beings with their creativity, precision and dexterity when transforming an idea into art.

Do recent events in Ukraine affect the situation on the jewelry market?

It is difficult not to affect, and on the one hand it has to affect so that we are aware of what world we want to live in and if we are going to continue pretending that things are not happening.

The current situation affects in the most varied situations, from sanctions that directly affect the production and purchase of Russian products, to offices that did business with Russia that ended up having to slow down their business speed. Even some events end up affecting all its dynamics, for example I was recently hired as a consultant for an event in West Africa, and before the war the main focus was business with Russia, in one month this whole dynamic was changed and we had to attract another type of visitors.

Russia is a strong and powerful player in our sector, there are many companies and people who depend on doing business with the country, and inevitably this affects everyone. This is another issue that as an industry we have to be careful to find the best way, before making quickly decisions that can harm people and segments that have nothing to do with it.

Could you, please, share the latest news from Mubri?

In 2021 we held events where it was already possible to do something, always with due health care. This year of 2022 we have practically returned to normal in all chapters and since then our regional and international actions have not stopped.The Brazil chapter is the most active with major partnerships and events such as Mubri at Casa Cor Sao Paulo and Mubri at Casa Cor Brasilia, the largest design event in Latin America where Mubri will present at least 60 brands to the Brazilian consumer, and I am talking only two cities. Still have other brazilian cities to we reach out until the end of this year.

In addition, the newest Mexico chapter has arrived and has already provided several activities, including an International Jewellery Competition.

There are even older chapters such as Spain that participates in Madrid Joya Jewelry Show. There is also participation in other Jewelry Shows in Dubai, Enirates and Jaipur, India, a partnership with GJEPC India that Mubri has and will take members to visit and do business with the organization's members.

And that's just a small sample of what we're doing right now as I give this interview. Until the end of the year, there will be many actions of different profiles in Latin America, Africa, Asia and Europe.

lex Shishlo for Rough&Polished
The Port of San Diego and the city of Chula Vista held a public design workshop March 20 for one of two signature parks connected to the citys billion-dollar Bayfront development project.

Almost 100 attendees had a chance to tell designers what features theyd like to see in Sweetwater Park, a 51-acre space east of E Street that connects the Living Coast Discovery Center to Bayside Park.

Unlike Harbor Park, which will be much larger and feature amenities designed to make it a destination where families can spend hours, Sweetwater Park will appeal to people who want to connect with nature and explore the natural resources.

Port Commissioner Ann Moore, who represents Chula Vista, said this environmental component makes Sweetwater Park special.

I know all the parks are special in their own way but Sweetwater Park is particularly special because it is adjacent to very sensitive habitat, Moore said.

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Residents who didnt attend the meeting still have a chance to weigh in on the parks design elements online. The Port of San Diego will accept input until April 3.

I think its great that they are getting public input, said Chula Vista resident Michael Cronin.

Designers envision Sweetwater Park as a place where people can connect with the areas natural wetland habitat and San Diego Bay. The mock-ups showed walking and hiking trails and several outlook points featuring views of the bay, Coronado and downtown San Diego.

During Wednesdays workshop, designers presented the audience with two design options and asked them to choose elements from each one. The main point of the workshop was for designers to get a clear idea of which design features are most popular so they can begin prioritizing the final design.

We do not have the budget to do everything as shown, so you need to help us prioritize the elements we bring in, said designer Mike Singleton. So its very important for you not to say, love it on everything.

Both design concepts had a parking lot, public restrooms, trails and activity areas. One design featured more active elements, such as playgrounds and outdoor gyms, while the other design tried to highlight the areas natural elements with more lookout points and hiking trails.

Hope Dills, another Chula Vista resident, liked elements from each design but said she preferred the more natural version.

I love nature, she said.

The Port of San Diego plans to return to Chula Vista in June for a follow-up workshop during which designers will reveal updated versions of Sweetwater and Harbor parks. Residents will have another chance to provide feedback on those designs.

Contact Gustavo Solis via Email or Twitter
OVER 7.4 million boys and girls aged five years old have been registered and issued with birth certificates through a special under-five birth registration strategy launched in 2013, minister for Constitution and Legal Affairs, Dr Damas Ndumbaro, has said.

Dr Ndumbaro made the revelation on Friday when launching the plan here in Tabora Region where some 500,000 children are expected to be registered and issued with birth certificates.

He said the process to register and issue birth certificates to the children was rolled out in 23 regions in the country to address low birth registration and certificates rates of children in the country.

The system according to the minister has thus seen registration and birth certification of boys and girls under five increase from 13 per cent in 2012 to 65 per cent in 2021.

The initiative is being implemented by Registration Insolvency and Trusteeship Agency (RITA) with support from UNICEF Tanzania and TIGO and facilitated by the government of Canada.

In a speech read on his (Dr Ndumbaro) behalf by the ministry's permanent Secretary Ms Mary Makondo, the minister highly commended RITA for ensuring smooth and successful implementation of the plan in 23 regions.

He also thanked UNICEF and the government of Canada for supporting the system that has led to the increase of birth registration and certification of under five children in the country.Meanwhile, Dr Ndumbaro directed RITA to use national identity cards in recognising parents of the children reached out for registration and giving birth certificates.

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He also directed security organs and other concerned authorities to fully participate in the process of birth registration.

Chief Executive Officer of RITA, Ms Angela Anatory, said the strategy has been rolled out in 22 regions, including Mwanza, Mbeya, Iringa, Njombe, Songwe, Geita, Shinyanga, Lindi, Mtwara, Tanga, Kilimanjaro, Rukwa, Morogoro, Coast, Mara, Dodoma, Singida, Arusha, Manyara, Tanga and Katavi.

She said some 500,000 boys and girls are expected to be registered and issued with birth certificates in Tabora in a two-week campaign that kicked off on Friday.

In another development, Head of Cooperation and Senior Director of High Commission of Canada in Tanzania, Helen Fytche, applauded the UNICEF and RITA for their hard work in rolling out the initiative in 23 out of 26 regions.

She said Canada is proud to provide funds in support of Tanzania's under five birth registration system which eliminates barriers to access between urban and rural, rich and poor, boys and girls.
KOREA International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) have organised a Korean Speech Contest aiming at strengthening diplomacy between Tanzania and South Korea.

Speaking during the event on Saturday in Dar es Salaam, the Dean of Students at the University of Dar es Salaam, Business school (UDBS) Prof Wineaster Anderson said the contest has come at a right time since it will lead to increase of global citizens among Tanzanians, something which will later benefit the country in different areas like promoting tourism.

The UDBS Dean of Students said that learning other languages will help Tanzanians to penetrate internationally in business matters, spreading various cultures as well as tourist attractions to the intended country since it will be easier for them to understand the message.

Since 2008, South Korea has a partnership with the Business School at the University of Dar es Salaam and has set up a Korea Studies Centre (KSC) for Korean studies, Prof Wineaster said.

Prof Wineaster has highlighted other areas where the KSC deals with apart from teaching language, including sharing and promoting Korean and Tanzanian business cultures, undertaking comparative studies between both countries consumers and business entities and offering research assistance to students in undertaking comparative studies in Korea and Tanzania.

Speaking about the contest, KOICA's Country Director Tanzania Office, Mr Kyucheol Eo, said it was very difficult to select the qualified 12 students for the final contest out of 50 applicants.

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"I believe this contest will serve as a bridge between Korea and Tanzania despite long distance between the two countries. As you all know, language is an important and effective communication tool in development," the KOICA Country Director said.

Furthermore, Mr Eo was hopeful that the contest would create mutual understanding and deepen relationship between South Korea and Tanzania while pledging to cooperate with the government of Tanzania in social and economic development.

For her part, the prize winner of the competition, Ms Maureen Mwasongwe from the Centre for Foreign Relations (CFR), advised other students from various colleges and universities to grab the opportunity of learning different languages as she vowed to use Korean language for earning her living as well as to advertise Tanzania.

The final Speech contest competition involved 12 speakers from the University of Dar es Salaam, the Centre for Foreign Relations, Borigaram Agriculture Technical College and the United African University of Tanzania.
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Flames engulfed plastic-sleeved clothing inside a dry cleaner in the heart of San Franciscos Glen Park neighborhood Saturday, leading to a fire that displaced five residents and caused a minor injury to an employee.

It could have been a lot worse, said Sung Baik, owner of Glen Park Cleaners at 701 Chenery St., who stood across from his damaged business wearing a black shirt and black jeans dusted with flame retardant. We deal with a lot of chemical stuff, and were lucky it didnt get into that.
Four people were arrested in recent days in three separate San Francisco homicides, all of which were stabbings, police announced in a rare Saturday afternoon news conference.

Standing at San Francisco police headquarters, Chief Bill Scott was joined by a number of police officers, sergeants and lieutenants who played a role in investigating and making arrests in three recent fatal stabbings.

Police declined to release the possible motives, names of the suspects as well as the identities of the victims, citing the ongoing investigations, adding that the medical examiners office is still actively working to notify the victims relatives.

Scott said that the investigations are still ongoing and that police are not aware of any connections between the three incidents. Scott said the homicides are part of a startling trend because they were all stabbings, saying that a high number of homicides in the city involve firearms.

So far this year, there have been 20 homicides in San Francisco, Scott said.

Its not typical that we have four murder suspects arrested in the span of a few days on three different cases, so we wanted to highlight the good work that is being done and let the public know how hard were working to make sure that we keep San Francisco a safe city, Scott said at the start of the news conference. These arrests happened in quick succession and we wanted to make sure we got that information out, but we also need the publics help.

Lt. Kelvin Sanders, of San Francisco polices homicide unit, detailed each fatal stabbing, which occurred on April 7, June 1 and June 3.

In the April 7 incident, a 45-year-old man was stabbed multiple times in the area of 24th Street and Potrero Avenue. Police officers from Mission Station responded to a report of a stabbing at around 2 a.m., Sanders said. He died at the scene.

Sgt. Francisco Rodriguez, the lead investigator for this case, said he and his partners followed several investigative leads and reviewed surveillance video in the area of the stabbing and homed in on Rolph Park in San Francisco. On Friday, Rodriguez said homicide detectives were patrolling the area of Rolph Park and were able to locate and take the suspect into custody.

In the June 1 incident, a 21-year-old San Francisco man was killed in a stabbing in the area of Turk and Jones streets in San Franciscos Tenderloin district. Officers from San Francisco polices Tenderloin Station responded at 10:21 a.m. to a report of a stabbing. The man died at a local hospital.

Sgt. Thomas McWilliams, the lead investigator in this case, said he received a call around 9:30 a.m. Saturday from a sergeant at SFPDs Tenderloin Station saying that someone had walked into the station and said that they had done something very bad and wanted to speak to an investigator.

After he and his partner interviewed the individual, the person was arrested on suspicion of murder in the fatal stabbing, McWilliams said.

In the June 3 incident, Sanders said officers from Mission Station responded at 6:32 p.m. to a report of a stabbing in the area of 15th Street and South Van Ness Avenue, where they found a man with a possible stab wound. He died at San Francisco General Hospital.

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Officer Nicholas Nagai with Mission Station said there were multiple witnesses at the scene who shared video evidence of what transpired.

The suspects on scene were in fact still hanging around in the area of the vicinity and those two suspects involved in the stabbing were taken into custody without incident, Nagai said.

In his final remarks during the news conference, Scott said that he hopes the recent arrests help San Francisco residents breathe a little bit easier or feel a little bit better that these people, at least for now, are in custody.

Anyone with information about any of these homicides can contact the Police Departments anonymous tip line at 415-575-4444.

Lauren Hernandez (she/her) is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: lauren.hernandez@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @ByLHernandez
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2 Chesa Boudin ousted as San Francisco district attorney in historic recall

During a private luncheon in the basement of the U.S. Capitol last month, Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares laid out the game plan for defeating Democrats during the midterms, news site RealClearPolitics reported: attack progressive prosecutors by cherry-picking gut-wrenching crime anecdotes.

Make them the face of Democrats on police and crime, Miyares, who made history last year by unseating an incumbent attorney general for the first time in Virginias history, said in reference to progressive prosecutors. He also encouraged Republicans to amplify visceral examples portraying progressive prosecutors as having a criminal-first, victim-last mentality.

Make them famous, he added.

The Democrats behind the attempt to recall San Francisco District Attorney Chesa Boudins on June 7 have spent months pulling from this very playbook.

Live Coverage: San Francisco election results for the Chesa Boudin recall

The strategy is clear in a document titled The Case Against Chesa Boudin, released May 22 by San Franciscans for Public Safety Supporting the Recall of Chesa Boudin. The opposition research paints Boudins as a reckless, incompetent prosecutor whose reform approaches to criminal justice  including his reliance on pretrial diversion programs  undermine public safety.

The recall committees approach is to prey on anxiety that crime in San Francisco feels worse than it has ever been  though data shows that it isnt. As such, its case against Boudins cites 11 cases, five involving repeat offenders, out of the thousands his office has handled since 2020 as critical examples for why he should be recalled.

One of the more familiar cases also happens to be the one the recall side gave the most space to in its document. It involves Troy McAlister.

McAlister was allegedly driving a stolen vehicle on Dec. 31, 2020, when he struck and killed 60-year-old Elizabeth Platt and 27-year-old Hanako Abe in downtown San Francisco.

McAlister had a long criminal history at the time of the incident. The Yes on H report claims the deaths were the direct result of Boudins unwillingness to properly and competently prosecute crime.

Its an oversimplification of a complex case, which KQED did a thorough job of unpacking last month. KQED reported that while Boudins office played a role in McAlisters trajectory ... numerous other law enforcement agencies  including the states parole department, or Division of Adult Parole Operations  also had a hand in a complicated set of decisions that ultimately enabled McAlisters to presumably get behind the wheel that night.

The document casts an equally narrow gaze on turnover in the District Attorneys Office under Boudins leadership, which it says points to Boudins incompetence. The recall folks claim Boudins fired seven prosecutors early in his tenure, and an additional 53 prosecutors left his office voluntarily, resulting in the offices loss of more than 700 years of professional, prosecutorial experience.

Comparatively, other recently elected DAs throughout the Bay Area have experienced significantly less turnover, with typically only a handful of attorneys choosing to leave every year, the report states.

Four years ago, when voters in Philadelphia County elected progressive Larry Krasner as district attorney, he fired 31 prosecutors during his first week, the Philadelphia Inquirer reported. So, it isnt unprecedented to see high-level turnover when a newly elected district attorney is drastically resetting his offices priorities.

Boudin was elected behind his promises to reform the criminal justice system. His agenda  which many San Francisco voters wanted  couldnt have advanced if an old guard opposed it.

But to acknowledge that Boudins office experienced understandable growing pains early on goes against the recall efforts playbook. So does admitting the campaign has significant Republican support.

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In a section of the recall document focused on rebuttals and fact-checking, the Yes on H side say Boudins claims that the recall is Republican-backed politically and financially are untrue.

Our campaign has more than 1,000 donors, of which 83% are Democrats or independent voters. 80% of our donors have given $250 or less, and 79% of our donors are from San Francisco, the report states.

Yet the document doesnt address how one of the biggest backers for Neighbors for a Better San Francisco Advocacy  the recalls largest donor  is Republican billionaire William Oberndorf.

Or how in February, the San Francisco Democratic County Central Committee, which oversees the local Democratic Party, voted 20-2 against the recall. And last month, the San Francisco Democratic Party issued a cease-and-desist letter to the recall committee to stop issuing mailers that say the campaign has the support of San Francisco Democrats.

As for the Miyares meeting in Washington, D.C., it isnt often the public gets to observe Republicans speaking so candidly about their cynical strategies for manipulating voters. He also told his colleagues during the private affair that people simply cant trust the far left with public safety.

Tuesdays election will reveal just how successful San Francisco Democrats were at persuading local voters to believe this, too.

San Francisco Chronicle columnist Justin Phillips appears Sundays. Email: jphillips@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @JustMrPhillips
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UPDATE: Chesa Boudin ousted as San Francisco district attorney in historic recall

If San Francisco District Attorney Chesa Boudin is recalled Tuesday, you will be able to write the conservative media headlines in your sleep. Just follow one simple rule: It must include a form of the words death or dystopia.

If a criminal justice reformer cant win in San Francisco, criminal justice reform is dead.

Progressivism is dead  even in dying San Francisco.

Dystopian, dying San Francisco recalls child of 60s radicals.

Somehow, progressivisms death is Kamala Harris fault. (Just because most things are the vice presidents fault on Fox News.)

Live Coverage: San Francisco election results for the Chesa Boudin recall

Boudins fate will be the fruit of an inside-the-Democratic-family fight. Yes, Democrat  despite the deep-pocketed Republicans who put the recall question on the ballot. Its not like the 7% of San Franciscans who are registered Republicans could fill Oracle Park, let alone recall anybody. If Boudin goes down, it will be at the hand of his fellow San Francisco Democrats  and yes, that will include some who identify as progressives.

As much as it will be interpreted as (a Republican victory), this has to do with Democrats eating themselves, said James Taylor, a professor of politics and African American studies at the University of San Francisco. Its about a sort of an internal Democrat, political dynamic within the city.

In San Francisco, everyone agrees in principle on the big ideas. Its in the details where the differences emerge, Taylor said. And those differences on the margins can be the basis of something like a recall.

Yet Boudins ouster  should it happen  wont kill reform. It may change what it looks like, however, even if he survives.

Youre going to see a third way emerge, said veteran Democratic consultant John Whitehurst, who worked on an independent expenditure campaign against progressive Contra Costa County District Attorney Diana Becton. The pendulum has changed from what it was a couple of years ago with George Floyd and Black Lives Matter and total reform.

Here is what to look for in Tuesdays recall vote beyond the hot takes:

Just what is that third way? Whitehurst, whose firm has commissioned extensive polling not just in San Francisco, but in Contra Costa and San Mateo counties, said voters across the Bay Area arent ditching reform, theyre moving toward a new mindset. Its one that says weve got to fix the crime problem. And, the reformers arent doing it, Whitehurst said.

They dont want to go back to pre-2019 days of just lock them up and throw away the key, Whitehurst said. Theres nuances. Theyre saying, We dont want to defund the police, we want to just have cops that dont beat people up and violate peoples civil rights. They dont want to have people behind bars that are in there for drug offenses.

Voters are telling pollsters that they want more police, and San Francisco Mayor London Breed is heeding that message. Despite mixed crime data  shoplifting is up while assaults and robberies are down  she wants to increase the police budget by $50 million to $708 million over the next year. Her goal is to hire 220 police officers over the next two years.

That was a fast pivot. A little over a year ago, Breed backed shifting $60 million in local law enforcement funding into the citys Black neighborhoods. Its another sign that Democrats have paused the brief, post-George Floyd era of seeking aggressive police reforms. That starts with President Biden, who said, The answer isnt to defund the police, its to fund the police, at his State of the Union message in March.

But Biden isnt ditching other reforms. Since the Democrat-led Congress has stalled on post-Floyd reforms, last month Biden signed an executive order that called for more police oversight, banning choke holds and restricting no-knock entries.

Other reformers are winning: Its hard to say Boudins recall means that criminal justice reform is dead when Democratic Attorney General Rob Bonta  a reformer who Republicans frequently tie to Boudin  will be the overwhelming choice of voters in San Francisco. He probably will also be the top vote-getter in the statewide primary, as his two Republican challengers and one Republican-turned-independent rival will split the GOP vote.

Bonta had the support of 46% of likely voters in a Berkeley IGS survey published Friday. The only other elected official on the ballot in that race, Republican-turned-independent Sacramento District Attorney Anne Marie Schubert, is backed by only 6%, behind Republicans Eric Early (16%) and Nathan Hochman (12%). Schubert won endorsements from law enforcement organizations and others for her tough-on-crime approach and has ridiculed Boudin, Bonta and Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascon for being too lenient.

Also predicted to romp Tuesday is Gov. Gavin Newsom, who is embraced by criminal justice reformers for his support of closing state prisons, the legalization of cannabis and backing Proposition 47, the 2014 ballot measure that reclassified certain theft and drug possession charges from felonies to misdemeanors, including shoplifting of items under $950.

Bonta and Newsom show you can pursue public safety while making significant changes, said Ace Smith, the longtime Democratic consultant who advises both men.

A reformer replaces a reformer: If Boudin loses, Breed will probably replace him with someone who would be considered a progressive in the rest of Americas big cities.

Plus, pointed out Jane Kim, a Boudin supporter and former San Francisco supervisor, its not like the pro-recall campaign has been anti-reform. Its been anti-Boudin.

Boudins campaign recognized that much of the recall was focused on him personally, so it spent much of the past few weeks of the race de-Boudining its ad campaign. One 15-second ad doesnt even mention the words Chesa Boudin, yet tried to address the anxiety voters feel about public safety.

Most of the recall campaign was spent attacking the individual, not the values and policies (Boudin) campaigned on and actually delivered on, Kim said.

Some of the recalls most prominent spokespeople, including former prosecutor Brooke Jenkins and Nima Rahimi, an executive board member of the California Democratic Party, say they support many of the reforms that Boudin championed.

The people pushing the recall say that theyre reformers. They would not be saying that if voters did not support reform, said Cristine Soto DeBerry, Boudins former chief of staff, who is now executive director of the progressive Prosecutors Alliance of California.

Boudins demise wont be progressivisms: If voters boot Boudin Tuesday, it isnt a harbinger of the death of progressives, said Kim, the California director of the Working Families Party.

Nobody is racing to rescind the San Franciscos universal health care program or dismantle its higher-than-most-cities minimum wage or revoke its sanctuary city policy.

This recall is about Boudin, not San Francisco progressivism.

San Francisco is progressive in a deep, institutionalized way, said Rich DeLeon, the retired San Francisco State University professor and longtime chronicler of the citys left. People focus on personalities and this election or that recall. Then they generalize absurdly from it.

Joe Garofoli is The San Francisco Chronicles senior political writer. Email: jgarofoli@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @joegarofoli
LABORATORY chemicals in schools may lead to lifelong health effects to students if safety guidelines are not observed, the Government Chemist Laboratory Authority (GCLA) has said.

The GCLA has warned that if schools or teachers ignore safe use of chemicals as directed, they may put the health of children in danger.

"Some chemicals, if not safely used during practical trainings in schools may affect our children's reproductive system. So you (teachers) and laboratory technicians must observe safety directives for using each type of chemical," acting Chief Government Chemist, Mr Sabanitho Mtega, stated.

Mr Mtega was speaking during a seminar to build capacity to heads of schools and education officers in Dar es Salaam on Thursday over safe use of laboratory chemicals and management of laboratories to protect students from hazardous chemicals.

He said teachers have to supervise properly laboratory technicians to protect children from hazardous chemicals that could affect their health.

"People in these laboratories are affected, particularly children are more vulnerable,".

"Though laboratory chemicals in schools are under Permanent Secretary in the Education ministry, we from the Ministry of Health have to do something," he added.

He said the authority encourages schools to allocate budgets for purchasing protective gears when students conduct practical trainings in laboratories.

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He explained that the GCLA organized the seminar to educate school heads on how to manage well laboratory chemicals as per the Industrial and Consumer Chemicals (Management and Control) Act.

"Have you ever checked the effects of your chemicals in the laboratories? Take your time and check what effects such chemicals pose upon being delivered at your schools," he challenged the participants.

In strengthening control on laboratory chemicals in schools and protecting students, he called on schools to register their laboratories with the GCLA as required by the law.

Upon registration, the GCLA usually conducts inspection to see how laboratory meets safety measures and standards as well as provide advice for improvement.

"We are now empowering schools so that they can implement the law easily," he stated.

Some participants commended the GCLA for organizing the seminar which enabled them to increase their understanding on handling laboratory chemicals in schools.

"Today we have been invited to get an understanding on how to use our laboratories. It is my first time to attend this kind of seminar. We use several chemicals in schools, so it is important to know how to use them properly," Mr Abdulah Mpanda, head of Kenton Secondary School, said.

Ms Restituta Mtaita, Kigamboni District Education Officer, said the seminar was very useful to teachers because they would guide students when applying chemicals during practical training.
Skye Razon-Olds family has been battling to bury her ancestors since before she was born. Now 32, she, too, has become a warrior, part of the long fight to get thousands of iwi kupuna, or Native Hawaiian ancestral remains, out of the hands of colonizers and into graves where they belong.

An untold number of native burial sites have been desecrated since the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom in 1893. Some were disturbed as the result of land development, but many were intentionally disinterred by white anthropologists and sent to the Bishop Museum, where scientists who considered Hawaii a racial laboratory studied them to further bigoted psuedosciences, including eugenics, the so-called "science" of creating "perfect" human beings.

For decades, the Bishop Museum, still Hawaiis preeminent cultural history museum, was a collector of iwi kupuna, many of them from the Mokapu Peninsula, now most widely known as the home of Marine Corps Base Hawaii. The museums director even offered bounties for the remains of Native Hawaiians, effectively turning grave robbery into a scavenger hunt. The sand dunes on the beaches of Mokapu soon proved to be a bountiful playground for the scavengers.

All told, the iwi, or skeletal remains, of as many as 3,000 babies, teens and adults were taken from Mokapu and given to the Bishop Museum between 1915 and 1993. For much of that time, the museum lent the collection out regularly to anthropologists for study, including eugenicists and other race "scientists."

Our black and brown bones were not treated as human remains, Razon-Olds told SFGATE. It was just a fun way for archaeologists to see and learn, and you know, it was like a reward for them to dig up our family.

Mark A Johnson/www.markjohnson.com

Mokapu is the largest burial site to have been desecrated by Americans in Hawaii, but such grave robberies are hardly isolated. That history of systematic dehumanization is an ongoing source of anger, frustration and grief for native communities. In 1990, spurred by the tireless efforts of Indigenous activists, the federal government passed landmark legislation demanding that universities, museums, government agencies and other institutions return their collections of native remains and cultural artifacts, repatriating peoples skeletons to their descendants for reburial.

The work has moved slowly. Between 1990 and 2020, American institutions reported owning the remains of nearly 200,000 native people; 116,857 of those have yet to be given back.

Razon-Olds is part of a new generation pushing for burial of the Mokapu iwi; her great-aunt first became an advocate for the cause in the 1980s. Officially, the bodies found on the Mokapu Peninsula are among the 82,000 returned to their descendants: In 1998, much of the Bishop Museums collection of iwi was legally relinquished to a group of 21 Native Hawaiian organizations that include cultural organizations and descendants, such as Razon-Olds family.

But efforts to rebury the iwi have been hindered by disagreements between the 21 groups, and with the military. Under the law, all legal claimants must come to an absolute consensus on what to do with the remains; no one person or group can make a decision for all. Now, two decades into those negotiations, the remains of thousands of people still sit in boxes around the Marine Corps base.

All of the iwi kupuna there, were connected to, because we have a connection to Mokapu, Razon-Olds told SFGATE. Its a responsibility thats incredibly heavy.

Nothing more than hewa and desecration

The Bishop Museum was founded in 1889 by Charles Bishop, an American businessman and Hawaiian Kingdom citizen, in memory of his late wife, the Hawaiian Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop.

The museum offered payment for native remains in 1912, but it was museum director and Yale anthropologist Herbert Gregory who, after beginning his tenure in 1919, began offering the museums resources to visiting anthropologists. At the time, many scientists  a significant number of them eugenicists  found Hawaii fascinating for its unrestricted multiracial population, often referring to it as a racial laboratory.

DAGS Hawaii

Visiting scholars often wanted to use the museums collection of remains, along with physical measurements of island natives, to try and solve the Pacific problem, a faddish term for understanding where the Polynesian race originated and defining a pure Native Hawaiian. Such research was popular with mainstream anthropologists for decades; the Bishop Museum received funding from and established partnerships with premier cultural institutions, including the Rockefeller Foundation, Yale, the University of Hawaii and the Carnegie Institution, to work on the problem.

In 1920, Gregory threw open the museums doors to the eugenicist Louis Sullivan, who worked at the American Museum of Natural History under Henry Osborn, one of the founders of the American Eugenics Society. With Osborns guidance, Sullivan measured and cataloged upwards of 10,000 Native Hawaiians, living and dead, including taking blood draws and measurements of the skulls of children at a school associated with the museum. The museum also provided Sullivan with an expert to help in handling the natives and talk them into being part of his studies.

The Bishop Museum continued to collect human remains for decades, often loaning them out to anthropologists trying to racially characterize Native Hawaiians. Indeed, the majority of the Bishop Museums collection of iwi from Mokapu was unearthed between 1938 and 1957, when the Bishop Museum and the University of Hawaii conducted large-scale excavations. (More graves would be disturbed when the military began using the dunes as a commercial sand mining operation.)

Bishop Museum

In the 1940s, anthropologist Charles Snow took over much of the research on the Bishop Museums collection of Mokapu remains. He and his team separated the iwi into piles of teeth, skulls, spines and pelvises, to be measured and categorized. That intermixing of bones would later cause debate about how many individuals were included in the collection; experts believe the bones come from the remains of somewhere between 1,500 and 3,000 people, or even more.

The recovery of skeletal material from the sand dunes of Mokapu afforded the opportunity for scientific investigation of the physical characteristics of the Hawaiians who lived and died before European contact, thereby adding a chapter to our knowledge of their racial heritage, Snow wrote, in his 1974 book, titled Early Hawaiians: An initial study of skeletal remains from Mokapu, Oahu. The book discussed what the people of Mokapu looked like, how long they lived and what diseases afflicted them, while comparing them to other races, including Mongoloids and American Negroes.

The images within this book are really hard for me, seeing the piles of bones being thrown and tossed together on different tables with different measuring tools, said Razon-Olds. Its nothing more than hewa [sin, offense] and desecration.

For Native Hawaiians, the trauma of this kind of scientific cruelty goes beyond the dehumanization of human bodies. They believe that ancestral remains contain mana, a spiritual power that can be found in both people and objects; that power, they believe, is stolen when the iwi are taken.

Damaging the bones to take measurements or DNA samples, these are the things that happen when people want to study our kupuna, or ancestors, Razon-Olds said. Our iwi, our ancestral remains, should never touch the light.

Mark A Johnson/www.markjohnson.com

The living cannot agree

The federal Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, or NAGPRA, was signed into law in 1990, with the goal of returning human remains and artifacts to their descendants all around the United States. The law gives priority to lineal descendants who can prove an unbroken genealogical tree. This is nearly impossible for Hawaiians, who preferred anonymous  and sometimes secret  burials. They believe mana remains in human bones after the person dies; historically, many were buried in unmarked graves, without identifying objects, to stop competing chiefs or families from stealing the mana of a specific individual.

It was really drafted for Native American tribes and Alaska Natives, says June Cleghorn, senior cultural resources manager for the Marine Corps base on Mokapu, which repatriated the museum collection under NAGPRA. Cleghorn is of Native Hawaiian descent. She and two of her staff manage archaeological sites and historic buildings around the base.

Office of Hawaiian Affairs

In place of lineal descendants, the Marine Corps accepted claims from individuals, families and organizations that could show they were affiliated with Mokapu in any way. Twenty-one groups came to the table; in 1998, legal ownership of the remains transferred to all of them, each with their own opinions and interests.

That was more or less the last time the majority agreed on anything. Until 2018, the Bishop Museum held onto the remains. Then, after a two decade stalemate, the iwi were handed over to the Marine Corps, which put them in storage.

One of the biggest sticking points is where to rebury the iwi, according to Mana Caceres, who has been on the Oahu Island Burial Council, a public agency tasked with cultural preservation, since 2016. The Marine Corps, for instance, proposed a plan for a mass burial site near the base, where descendants could visit without accessing a restricted area. Some claimants, though, said they preferred the bones be buried separately, in the land they were taken from.

There is also disagreement about what should happen when new remains are discovered on the Marine Corps base. The Marine Corps hasnt made a public announcement about any new discoveries since 1994, although finding new iwi has occurred and continues to occur periodically, Cleghorn admitted to SFGATE, while saying that the military was following the law.

Mark A Johnson/www.markjohnson.com

While Razon-Olds agrees that the military has the power to put newly discovered remains into storage with the other bones, Caceres argues that the Marine Corps is violating the law by not making new findings public.

Its hard to know what else, exactly, the claimants and the military disagree on. For the past 20 years, negotiations have been held behind closed doors. Most of the families and organizations have agreed to a kapu, or ban, on speaking to the public about the negotiations.

The No. 1 reason why there are thousands of kupuna waiting at Mokapu for reburial [is] because the living cannot agree, Caceres told SFGATE.

Hoping to bring more transparency to the process, Razon-Olds started giving updates about the closed-door negotiations at public meetings of the Oahu Island Burial Council. A few months later, the council was hit with a cease-and-desist letter from two claimant families. The letter said that public updates could lead to legal jeopardy and proceedings, and said it violated an agreement with the Marine Corps. (Cleghorn told SFGATE that the Marine Corps is not enforcing any kind of gag order.)

I truly believe that the pride and ego of a few select claimants have stood in the way of planting our kupuna back into the aina [land], Caceres told SFGATE. The only thing that comes to mind is that the original claimants are shame to let the other Native Hawaiians know that its taken this long to bury iwi kupuna.

Repatriation of iwi kupuna is certainly possible under NAGPRA, according to Edward Halealoha Ayau, former executive director of Hui Malama I Na Kupuna O Hawaii Nei. (Hui Malama was one of the original claimants of the Mokapu iwi, but backed out 23 years ago, when the families became territorial.) Since the passage of the federal law, Ayau said, Hui Malama and other organizations have been able to reclaim 6,000 iwi kupuna.

Its hard that were going all around the world to bring our ancestors home and the largest collection of Hawaiian remains at a single site still sits waiting to be reburied, Ayau told SFGATE.

Trauma that never ends

Its impossible to know how many other iwi kupuna have been desecrated in all of the islands of Hawaii, but commercial and real estate developments continue to unearth them. Ayau also says he and other activists are still finding remains in museums and institutions overseas.

Every time we celebrate bringing them home, we find out there are more and more and more. So we just keep looking, Ayau told SFGATE.

Ayau feels great responsibility for taking back possession of iwi kupuna and giving them the dignity of a safe resting place. Because Native Hawaiians have no traditional prayers for reburial after grave robbery, Ayaus kumu, or teacher, created new prayers, asking the ancestors to forgive their descendants for allowing desecration of their remains, and offering humility to assuage their anger.

Office of Hawaiian Affairs

Razon-Olds, meanwhile, feels a great deal of urgency in getting younger generations involved in the repatriation process. Many of the descendants who have been leading the charge are now elderly, she told SFGATE. But even after the Mokapu iwi are buried, there is no end in sight for the lasting trauma of colonization and development of Hawaii.

There truly are iwi kupuna everywhere. Anywhere you develop, you have potential to disturb, to desecrate, Razon-Olds said. As long as theres building going on anywhere in Hawaii, our job will keep going.

Even if she knows there will still be work to do for her children, she truly hopes the Mokapu iwi will be buried in her lifetime, so she doesnt pass the responsibility onto them.

As I know my children will also be iwi kupuna advocates, I hope they dont have to shoulder something as heavy as Mokapu, she says. Its hard. It was hard on my Auntie Nalani. I know its hard on all the other iwi kupuna advocates.
BURLINGTON, Vt. (AP)  Two Vermont men have been fined for abandoning an old boat in the Missisquoi River on the Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge.

The fines were issued to the two men on Thursday in U.S. District Court in Burlington.
NEW YORK (AP)  If Donovan Atterberry thought about abortion at all as a young man, it was perhaps with some vague discomfort, or a memory of the anti-abortion protesters outside the clinic that he would pass on his way to the park as a child.

It became real to him in 2013, when his girlfriend, now his wife, became pregnant with their first child together. Shed had a healthy pregnancy before, his stepdaughter, but this time genetic testing found a lethal chromosomal disorder in the developing fetus, one that would likely result in a stillbirth and also possibly put her life at risk during a delivery.

As a man, I didnt know how to console her, how to advise her, Atterberry, now 32, recalls. I said, If I had to choose, I would choose you. ... It wasnt a matter of do I believe in abortion or I dont believe in abortion. At that point, I was thinking about her life.

She chose to terminate the pregnancy and it changed my whole perspective ... on bodily autonomy and things of that nature, said Atterberry.

So much so, that he now works as a voting engagement organizer for New Voices for Reproductive Justice, which focuses on the health of Black women and girls, with abortion access being among the areas of concern.

What Im trying to convey is that its a human right for someone to have a choice, he said.

That Atterberry is a man in support of abortion rights isnt unusual; according to polls, a majority of American men say they support some level of access to abortion. And history is replete with men who have played active roles in supporting abortion, through organizations, as legislators and in the case of Dr. George Tiller, as an abortion provider. Tiller was assassinated in church by an anti-abortion extremist in Kansas in 2009.

Still, there is room for a lot more who are willing to speak out and be active in the political battles over abortion availability, Atterberry says.

Where men have always played an outsize role is in pushing for and enacting abortion restrictions  as advocates, state elected officials and most recently, as a U.S. Supreme Court justice. Justice Samuel Alito authored a draft of a high court ruling that would overturn the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision establishing a nationwide right to abortion. The draft, which was leaked to a news outlet last month, appears to have the support of the majority of the six men sitting on the nine-justice court.

Women have always taken the lead in the fight to preserve abortion rights, for obvious reasons: They are the ones who give birth and who, in so many instances, are tasked with caring for children once they are brought into the world.

No one is calling for that leadership to change, said David Cohen, a law professor at Drexel University who specializes in law and gender.

Men should not be out there trying to run the movement or take away leadership positions, he said. But being a part of it, supporting, listening and being active are all things that men can and should be doing.

Thats what Oren Jacobson is trying to do at Men4Choice, the organization he co-founded in 2015, where the goal is to get men who say they support abortion rights to speak out and do more, such as protesting, making it a voting priority, and especially talking to other men.

Everything were doing is focused on getting what are really millions of men  who in theory are pro-choice but are completely passive when it comes to their voice and their energy and their time in the fight for abortion rights and abortion access  to get off the sidelines and step in the fight as allies, he said.

It hasnt been the easiest of tasks.

Abortion is almost never a conversation inside of male circles unless its introduced by somebody who is impacted by the issue in most cases, he said. Not only that, but ... youre talking about a heavily stigmatized issue in society. Youre talking about sex and sexuality, youre talking about anatomy, and none of those things are things that guys feel particularly comfortable talking about.

But it is something that affects them and the culture they live in, notes Barbara Risman, sociology professor at the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Sexuality has become so integrated into our lives, whether or not were partnered, she said. That is directly related to womens control of fertility  and women do not control fertility in a world where abortion is not legal. ... Certainly, heterosexual sexual freedom is dependent on the ability to end an unwanted pregnancy.

Also, a society in which the state has a say in reproductive decisions could lead to one in which the state has control over other decisions that could affect men more directly, Cohen said.

Abortion law, abortion precedent is not just about abortion, its also about controlling intimate details to your life," he said. "So whether its your sex life, your family life, other parts of your private life, medical care, decision-making, all of those are wrapped up into abortion law and abortion jurisprudence and abortion policy, he said.

Since the Supreme Court draft was leaked, Jacobson said he's seen more men speak out about abortion access and show more interest in his group's work than he has in the past several years.

What remains to be seen, he said, is whether or not its going to catalyze the type of allyship thats needed now and frankly has been needed for a long time."
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP)  Alabama state offices will be closed Monday for a holiday marking the birthday of Confederate President Jefferson Davis.

The day is one of three Confederate-related state holidays in Alabama. The state jointly observes Robert E. Lee Day with Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in January. Alabama marks Confederate Memorial Day in April.

There have been various efforts to abolish or change the name of Confederate-related holidays, but none has been successful.

Rep. Chris England, who is also chairman of the Alabama Democratic Party, this year proposed legislation to remove Davis birthday as a state holiday and instead call it. State Employee Appreciation Day. He also proposed abolishing Confederate Memorial Day and instead make Election Day a state holiday.

Neither bill got a committee vote.
VACAVILLE, Calif. (AP)  A motorist was arrested after a state Department of Transportation employee was killed in a hit-and-run crash along a Northern California highway, authorities said.

Quanda McGadney, a Caltrans landscape maintenance worker, died at the scene of the crash Friday on westbound Interstate 80 near Vacaville, the department said.
IRVINGTON, Ala. (AP)  An Alabama seafood company is recalling 1-pound (0.45 kilogram) packages of crab meat because federal inspectors found listeria bacteria on cooking equipment and in the cooking room.

Irvington Seafood of Irvington, Alabama, said in a notice posted Friday on the Food and Drug Administration website that it has suspended production of the packages while it and the FDA investigate.
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (AP)  A battleship gun barrel used by the Navy in WWII that seemed destined for the scrapyard will get a second life in Virginia Beach.

A nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving U.S. defense equipment, Coast Defense Study Group, plans to relocate the historic armament to Joint Expeditionary Base Fort Story at Cape Henry soon.

The 120-ton gun barrel, which was used on the USS Iowa battleship, is the last of nine that remained at a storage facility in Chesapeake. It fired projectiles weighing 1,900 to 2,700 pounds with a range of up to 24 miles.

The Navy brought the USS Iowa, as well as the group of Iowa-class battleships, back into service in the 1980s but retired the gun barrels permanently a decade later.

In 2011, when the Navy was preparing to purge its inventory from the battleships, the nonprofit stepped in to find the barrels new homes. They enlisted the help of veterans groups and other organizations to preserve most of them, which are now on display at memorials and parks in various states.

Theyre historic artifacts, said Terry McGovern, spokesperson for Coast Defense Study Group. Why just cut them up into chunks of steel?

Here in Hampton Roads, McGovern is working with the veterans group associated with the USS Iowa to relocate the last barrel. Its no small feat. Lifting and transporting the barrel, which is 68 feet long, will require special permits and equipment.

The USS Iowa battleship was based in Norfolk. The veterans group wanted to relocate it to the USS Iowa Memorial at Naval Station Norfolk, which is dedicated to the 47 sailors who died during an accidental turret explosion while training in 1989.

However, limited public access to that naval installation, and unfavorable soil conditions for displaying it there, forced the group to look elsewhere.

Fort Story, where visitors take tours of the historic Cape Henry Lighthouse, was selected instead. Plans are underway for the battleship barrel and two 16-inch projectiles to be displayed in a field next to the lighthouse parking lot.

The site will feature signage about the USS Iowa and its heritage.

Were glad to give it a home, said Capt. Michael Witherspoon, commander of Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story. All this history to sit in one location is going to make it a pretty amazing place.

Cape Henry is the site of the First Landing, when the English settlers arrived in 1607, before moving on to Jamestown. The original Cape Henry Lighthouse, authorized by George Washington, was the first federally funded public works project of the newly formed U.S. government.

Fort Story has deep roots in Virginia Beach, too. It became a military installation in 1914. In WWII, American soldiers at Fort Story defended the Virginia coast and the entrance to the Chesapeake Bay.

McGovern thinks its a natural fit. The barrel was the first one produced for the Iowa-class ships during WWII, and was mounted to the ships main turret in 1942. After the ship returned from Korea in 1955, the barrel was removed.

To date, approximately $100,000 has been raised for the project, which will be used to paint, transport and display the barrel. McGovern is trying to raise an additional $50,000.

Adding a 16-inch barrel to the current memorial area at Fort Story will honor the veterans that defended our homeland in both WWI and WWII, and will allow Fort Story visitors to experience the massive size and power of these coast artillery guns, he said.
Bishop David Toups was on a plane to Florida, returning from his introduction to members of the Diocese of Beaumont as its sixth bishop, when he began sketching out the idea for his personal coat of arms. The symbol would soon marshal the crest representing the Diocese of Beaumont after his ordination on August 21, 2020.

Its a duty with which every bishop in the Roman Catholic Church has been tasked for more than one thousand years -- part of an ancient heraldic tradition dating back to the Middle Ages.

Theres a lot of continuity and deep symbolic significance to the practice, Toups said.

Just as families in Medieval times had a coat of arms to distinguish them in times of battle or celebration, bishops designed crests describing their life as they were called to lead their diocesan family, Toups explained.

Its a tradition of which Toups never anticipated being a part, until getting a call from the papal nuncio informing him that Pope Francis had appointed him as the next Bishop of the Beaumont Diocese, following the papal acceptance of then-Bishop Curtis Guillorys retirement after 20 years leading the diocese.

At the time, Toups was rector and president at St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary in Clearwater, Florida.

Hed been enmeshed in seminarian life and academia for roughly 20 years.

The move would require leaving the world of spiritual teaching for one of spiritual leading -- not just at one church, but at a consortium of 49 parishes within nine counties serving nearly 70,000 Catholics throughout the Golden Triangle.

His home base would be St. Anthony Cathedral Basilica, a historic site established in 1907 with roots dating back to 1879.

It was a life-changing move  one Toups asked to consider with consult from spiritual advisors.

What is there to consider? Toups recalls the papal nuncio asking. The pope has appointed you.

Toups reflected on his long-held favorite Biblical verse  For those who love God, all things work together for the good, Romans 8:28.

It happened to be my familys favorite verse, and the first verse I ever knew, Toups said.

Speaking with then-Bishop Curtis Guillory on a first visit, Toups learned that verse actually was the motto in Guillorys personal bishops crest.

It was then he knew the appointment was fate..

We call that a Godincidence, Toups said during his introduction to the dioceses community of priests on June 9, 2020.

As he set about creating the crest that would adjoin the diocesan crest, he considered his personal history, its roots ensconced in the Gulf Coast South and a spiritual life steeped in academia.

Toups had created a family crest years ago, so heraldry wasnt new to me, he said.

But one part would resonate with members of Beaumonts parishes  the motto.

Its unusual to carry over a motto from one bishop to the next, Toups noted, but it shows the continuity of Bishop Guillory and I. It was a beautiful sign of providence.

From there, however, the personal crests diverge.

Bishop Guillorys was set amid the colors of Africa  red, green and black  within which were set personal symbols, like a sprig of cotton referencing his descent from sharecroppers.

Bishop Toups crest would signify a story steeped in its own layers of symbolic figures and colors.

His background colors are red, yellow and blue, their meaning laid out in diocesan documents.

Red represents the color of blood, especially the blood of Jesus, which was shed for all in the ultimate act of love.

Gold symbolizes nobility, and the first virtue, faith, which helps us to believe in Gods plan of salvation.

The color blue symbolizes the separation from worldly values and the ascent of the soul toward God.

Silver is the second of the noble metals and displays as white, which symbolizes the purity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which all Christians share through the gift of sanctification.

Rules of ecclesiastic heraldry dictate that in a coat of arms, color cannot be laid upon color nor metal upon metal.

At top left of the crest is a golden feather set upon a backdrop of red. It is a plume fashioned into a quill  part of the ancient Dubs (Toups) family crest that serves as a reminder of familial lineage  but also nods to the fact that much of my priesthood was spent in academia, in the intellectual side of the church, Toups notes.

"the plume/quill represents the importance of the intellectual pursuit of the truth and (my) desire to be a shepherd faithful and true," he added.

Toups was inspired by Mother Teresas statement that she was simply a pencil in the hand of God, but it is he who writes.

Beside that image, in contrasting hues, is a red lion set amid a plane of gold.

The lion comes from a symbol denoting the diocese of St. Petersburg, where Toups was first ordained into the priesthood in 1997.

It also references his middle name  Leon, after his father - and therefore makes his coat of arms canting, or heraldic bearings that that represent the bearers name. The lion also symbolizes courage, which the Bishop asks of God to pour upon him as he embraces the Office of Bishop, according to Diocesan documentation.

At the bottom of the shield is a pelican -- a bird featured on the Louisiana flag of Toups youth in recognition of his Houma, Louisiana upbringing -- feeding its chicks.

Its silver wings spread amid a base of blue, and within its chest, three drops of blood sit below the dipping beak of the pelican as it prepares to feed its young.

In symbolic reference to the Eucharist, the pelican in times of famine would pinch its chest and feed the chicks from their own flesh so that they dont die, Toups explained.

The image, attributed to St. Thomas Aquinas, is a powerful and ancient symbol of Jesus, who, to prevent us from starving, serves us with his very flesh and blood. This image serves as the base/foundation of the entire shield to remind us all that the Eucharist is the source and summit of our lives as Catholic Christians, according to diocese documents explaining Toups crest.

On a personal level, the three chicks represent Toups, his 2 older siblings and the sacrifice parents make for their kids, he said.

Set amid a base of blue, its meaning elevates to one depicting Toups movement from an Earthly family to his larger family as a servant of God.

At the center of his coat of arms is a silver star.

It is a symbol of Mary, star of the sea guiding mariners to safety as patroness of storms, Toups explained.

Its a symbol not lost on any in the Golden Triangles history of hurricanes and devastating storms.

But it further represents Bishop Toups vow to entrust his new pastoral service to the protection and the guiding light of the Blessed Virgin Mary.and a prominent symbol of his new home in Texas, the Lone Star State, according to Diocese documents.

Following his installment as bishop, Toups personal coat of arms was adjoined to another that has long represented the Beaumont Diocese  what is known as marshaling in heraldic tradition.

The left half, or heart, of the diocesan coat of arms has passed down through six generations of paschoral leadership.

Its symbolism is worn on the garments of priests during diocese-wide services, like the Chrism Mass celebrated the Tuesday of Holy Week and is part of the imagery decorating the metal doors of the Basilica.

On a base of blue sits a golden vase inscribed with the Greek letters X (Chi) and P (Rho) - the monogram of Christ, the X meaning, the anointed one, Toups said.

Above are two flowers representing the Beaumont diocese's descension from the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston; a star in between references the "Lone Star State.

The vessel represents that which contains the sacred oils used for the administration of the sacraments, Toups explained, but also acknowledges the regions role as the origins of oil in Southeast Texas  a gold mountain, a Beau Mont.

Though the word originated from the maiden name of the citys founder, its symbolic meaning stuck and has its place in the intricate layered imagery of its subsequent diocesan nomenclature.

The bishop and diocesan coats of arms form a shield unified by a golden processional cross decorated with five red gems symbolizing Christs wounds during crucifixion.

Atop the cross is a green hat from which flows on each side a total of six tassles.

They represent the crest-bearers stature within the Catholic hierarchy.

Designing his coat of arms was merely a step toward Toups assuming his newest role in a journey of faithful service.

It was a learning curve aided by fellow bishops.

One steered him toward the talents of Renato Poletti - a member of the Italian government who dabbles in ecclesiastical heraldry as a hobby - to create the final design of his coat of arms from Toups early rough sketch.

Another bishop advised him toward a jeweler in Pittsburgh to create the Bishops ring that would bear the signet of his crest.

And it was Toups sister Vicki Sheaffer that suggested he use their parents wedding rings as the base metal for that piece.

It was all part of the heraldry that would lead to his installment as Beaumonts sixth bishop in a place he would now call home.

I feel very much at home here in Southeast Texas, Toups said, noting that a parish member created the crest-embroidered capes that now covers the shoulders of the servers aiding him during mass.

It was a nice little touch to his installment as the next bishop, Toups said, one making him feel welcomed to the community he now calls home  a home to which he felt called to serve.

I love being in a small diocese. Its like being the pastor of a large parish, and I feel like this is right, Toups said. This is where God wanted me to be.

kbrent@beaumontenterprise.com
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SAO PAULO (AP)  Elon Musk arrived in Brazil for his first-ever visit, not knowing his cachaca from his churrasco, and within hours had a prestigious medal draped around his neck as he clasped the hand of President Jair Bolsonaro.

The Tesla and SpaceX CEO was the first foreign civilian without a government position to receive the Defense Ministry honor since its 2002 creation, according to an Associated Press review of recent records.

But it came as little surprise given Bolsonaros benevolence in decorating ideological allies, ministers, loyalists and family  sometimes on questioned grounds. Bolsonaro himself has received six medals from his own administration.

In Bolsonaros cabinet, a medal has practically come with the job. The nations three medals regarded as most prestigious are the Order of Defense Merit, Order of Rio Branco and the Medal of Victory, and Bolsonaro awarded more than three-quarters of current or former ministers at least one.

He has distributed at least 76 of the three top medals to ministers since 2019, more than any of his three elected predecessors throughout their two terms.

Bolsonaro also gave three medals of various sorts to his wife Michelle and senator son Flavio. His son Eduardo, a lawmaker, got at least six.

The awards are meant "to forge the appearance of being surrounded by people with merit, of high caliber, said Carlos Melo, a political science professor at Insper University. One or another could be, but you cant say that for all of them.

In a November article titled The Farce of the Medals, magazine Istoe wrote that Bolsonaro had transformed the government into a medal dispensary. The presidential palace didn't respond to AP questions about motives for the medals.

Heads of state often bestow awards on controversial grounds. Donald Trumps son-in-law Jared Kushner received Mexicos highest honor, the Order of the Aztec Eagle, for helping to renegotiate the North American trade agreement. Barack Obama gave out more Presidential Medals of Freedom than any U.S. leader since its creation, including one for billionaire Warren Buffett and another for then-Vice President Joe Biden.

But its rarer for presidents to decorate themselves. The same medal the Defense Ministry awarded to Musk was given to Bolsonaro on his first day in office, Jan. 1, 2019. The former army captain has accumulated others of varying importance in the three years since, mostly from the armed forces. In March, he got two medals from his Justice Ministry, one of which honors altruistic service for Indigenous peoples.

That scandalized environmentalists, human rights activists and Indigenous groups who see the presidents push for development within Indigenous territories as profoundly damaging.

Veteran ethnographer Sydney Possuelo, who once headed the nation's Indigenous agency and demarcated Indigenous territories nationwide, was shocked when he heard the news. He protested by returning his own medal, which he received 35 years prior.

If Id seen it the same day, I would have rushed down and thrown the medal at the entry of the presidential palace, Possuelo, 83, told the AP by phone. How can a president who promises to ignore a Supreme Court ruling on demarcation of Indigenous lands give himself that accolade?

There arent public records to show whether former presidents received as many medals from their own administrations. The AP filed freedom of information requests to president's office and several ministries for year-by-year information on medals awarded since the countrys 1988 return to democracy, but received scant response.

Former Presidents Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Fernando Henrique Cardoso accepted the same medal as Musk while in office. Dilma Rousseff won it before her election, while a minister. The medal was created in 2002, replacing a similar honor.

Jose Chrispiniano, the spokesperson for da Silva, said his boss doesn't have the slightest idea how many medals he received from his own government. He never cared much about that, the spokesperson said. Da Silva leads all polls to win October elections, in which Bolsonaro is seeking a second term.

History Professor Ruth Ben-Guiat, a specialist on authoritarian leaders at New York University, said she wasn't aware of other presidents receiving so many medals from their own administrations.

Behaviors like this often correspond to leaders fears about their political future, and they start to try and buy people off with honors and other things to keep their loyalty, she said by email. I would imagine that these behaviors will increase as the election gets closer.

In at least one instance, Bolsonaro overruled expert recommendations on granting awards, cutting two scientists from a technical committees list of recipients: One had worked on improving health of transgender people and the other published a study showing the anti-malarial drug chloroquine was ineffective against COVID-19. Bolsonaro had insistently touted it as a cure.

The Brazilian Academy of Sciences issued a statement calling the snub unprecedented in the country and typical of authoritarian regimes. And 21 other intended recipients refused the accolade, long seen as a major professional honor. Among them was Carlos Gustavo Moreira, a member of the Brazilian Academy of Sciences.

His intervention was a step beyond, said Moreira. Many of us were uncomfortable receiving it from this administration. After he took the two names off, it was easy to decide.

Bolsonaro didnt make explicit why Musk got the Defense Ministry medal, but within days SpaceX launched two satellites for the Brazilian Air Force from Cape Canaveral. At the event in Brazils countryside, Bolsonaro said the billionaires plans to conduct satellite monitoring of the Amazon rainforest would debunk lies about environmental destruction, called his prospective purchase of Twitter a breath of hope and deemed the man the legend of freedom. Many of Bolsonaros boosters view Musk as a champion against social media speech restrictions.

Bolsonaro supporters want to see him give a medal to someone they believe is in favor of what they call liberty, freedom of speech, Joao Martins Filho, former head of the Brazilian Association of Defense Studies, told the AP by phone. So he gladly does it.

___ Alvares reported from Brasilia
ORANGE, Calif. (AP)  A suburban Southern California home was deemed uninhabitable after a pickup truck slammed into it in a suspected DUI crash, authorities said.

The pickup sideswiped a parked car, veered off the road and slammed through the front of the house late Friday in Orange, police said.
The commissioner of police in Kwara State , Mr Tuesday Assayomo, has warned policemen in the state against indiscriminate stopping and searching of youths in both public and private vehicles for the purpose of looking for incriminating information in their phones and laptops.

Assayomo, in a statement signed by the spokesman of the state police command, Okasanmi Ajayi, warned policemen indulging in such unethical practice to desist forthwith or face severe consequences.

To ensure strict compliance with his directive, Assayomo said the police command's special monitoring team has been set up and detailed to be on the look out for deviant officers.

" The Kwara State Commissioner of Police, Mr Tuesday Assayomo wishes to inform the general public that the Command stands firmly against the indiscriminate stopping of youths in both private and public transportation and on the streets for the purpose of checking for incriminating information and eventual harassment and extortion by some policemen on field duties.

"The CP has sufficiently warned policemen in such unethical habits to desist forthwith or else severe consequences await such officers. To ensure strict compliance of this directive, Kwara police Command's special monitoring team has been set up and detailed to be on the look out for deviant officers.

"Therefore, members of the public are advised to insist on being taken to the nearest police station in the event of any policeman requesting they submit their phone sets or laptops for search.

" Further to this directive, home owners or tenants are also advised to demand search warrants authenticating the search of such dwelling places before the exercise be allowed .This is to forestall reports of indiscriminate ingress into homes and offices by police men and imposters alike on the excuse of searching and arrest of criminal elements," the statement added.
CAMARILLO. Calif. (AP)  A 25-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder after his mothers dismembered body was found in a trash container at a Southern California apartment complex, authorities said.

The remains of 62-year-old Tomoko Hoetzlein were discovered Friday morning in the trash bin next to the apartment in Camarillo where she had lived with her son, the Ventura County Sheriff's Department said.
CHICAGO (AP)  A Chicago police officer was shot Sunday on Chicago's South Side, according to fire and police officials.

Chicago Police Department spokesman Tom Ahern tweeted Sunday afternoon that an officer from the departments 7th District had been shot was was being transported to the University of Chicago Hospital. The Chicago Tribune reported that Fire Department spokesman Larry Langford said he believed the officer's wounds were not life-threatening.

WGN-TV reported that a male suspect was taken to Christ Hospital in critical condition. It wasn't immediately clear how the suspect was injured.

The incident marks the third time in a week a law enforcement officer has been shot in Chicago.

A Chicago police officer was shot Wednesday after she tried to make a traffic stop in the same neighborhood where Sunday's shooting occurred, the Chicago Tribune reported. She was taken to a hospital and was last listed in critical but stable condition. No one has been arrested in connection with that shooting.

An officer with the U.S. Marshals Service's fugitive apprehension team and his police dog were shot Thursday on the city's Northwest Side while serving a warrant. The officer was shot in the hand but declined to be taken to a hospital. The dog was in intensive care at an emergency veterinary hospital as of Friday.

The alleged shooter, 19-year-old Tarrion Johnson, has been charged with attempted murder, attempted robbery with a firearm, aggravated cruelty to animals and injury to a police animal.
PORTSMOUTH, Va. (AP)  The U.S. Coast Guard said Sunday afternoon it had suspended its search for a missing boater in the Chesapeake Bay.

The Coast Guard announced the search for 63-year-old Christopher Martin Young a day earlier, saying it had commenced after a boat with signs of recent occupancy" was found beached near Factory Point, Virginia.
MECOSTA  Food, drink, and especially sweet treats can be a big part of bringing communities together, and one business in Mecosta County is looking to be the newest hot spot for coffee, good food, and gatherings.

Coffee and Cream is owned by Marco and Felicia Flores, who wanted to create a space that could be used as a comfortable outdoor space for residents and visitors to enjoy.

Felicia is originally from Mecosta County and she and her husband saw the need for quality community spaces to be brought to the area.

The couple chose to move from Miami, Florida, during the pandemic to remodel and reopen a new business in the old building on 510 W. Main St., in the village of Mecosta.

Felicia said they hope to bring in generations of customers.

Our goal is to be a community hub, Felicia said. What we want to do is just bring big hearts into the small community. I've always said, we might be small in size, but we're big in heart. So we want to show that and build community by bringing sweetness through the cream and coffee and good times and a good environment.

We've got some great activities for families to do together, she added. Things for parents to do or to bring their kids to come over and gather together as parents and just build a support group for each other while they're sipping and dip in and having some fun.

There have been four previous owners of the building that the Flores are running their new business out of. It was originally built in 1961. The building has served as an ice cream parlor, and now the new owners have expanded the menu to include savory lunch options and even more dairy-based sweet treats.

The COVID-19 pandemic impacted many new small businesses, and Coffee and Cream is no stranger to the challenges it brought.

MORE PHOTOS See more photos of Coffee and Cream at bigrapidsnews.com. See More Collapse

Marco Flores said getting things started has been a beneficial challenge.

My wife grew up here, and she went to school across the street, Marco said. She has deep roots in his village. I always came up in the summers for the last 20 years, dropped her off, and went back to work in Miami. This time we stuck around for a little longer than we thought, and the place was available. I really needed something to do, and I got into it not knowing anything about the business.

He said he knew the village was ready for them to open based on the community's response.

They all supported us, they came out at the moment I took over and we started cleaning the outside, doing the landscaping, and putting the building back together. They asked the questions and gave me a lot of information that was very valuable once we got it open. This building came with a lot of history and made our life really easy running and operating it.

The couple has spent several months getting the building ready and cultivating their menu.

Some of the new additions to the location are new sitting spaces including a repurposed old Airstream camper that Marco purchased and placed classic video games in for customers to enjoy.

The project of remodeling and reupholstering the camper has been a process because they want to maintain the classic vintage covers.

Marco has repurposed much of the seating, some of it served as old pool deck furniture at the couples old house which had a pool, and the seating behind the building came from an old Chucky Cheese restaurant closure sale.

The furniture gives the buildings seating areas a pop of color and creates a fun light atmosphere that could be relaxing for any customer. He has also salvaged and displayed one of the old signs from a previous owner, preserving the history of the buildings past ownership.

Marco said the community response has been extremely supportive.

I believe we're giving back already, Marco said. I have parents that come by with their kids, and they bring their parents. In a way, it's already a great joy for them to have us open. This town is it's like a soul that is looking for that eternal life, and it needs the community together to keep going."

Coffee and Cream recently sponsored a horseshoe tournament at Pine Tree Park. It also helps support story hour at the local library by having a table out for signing up with an ice cream cone afterward.

Shawn Sredersas, a barista at Coffee and Cream, said she enjoys being a part of community growth.

We're tying in and collaborating with other units in the village and all supporting each other because that's what our village does, Sredersas said. The iced lattes are, no pun intended, cool and hot right now on our menu. We want folks in the community to know we're open again and we're back. We're offering bigger and better things and that kind of relationship is what we're hoping for.

Also originally a native of the village of Mecosta, Sredersen expressed that she can already see the difference that Coffee and Cream is making for the community.

Marco Flores said a goal of his moving forward is to help other businesses join the community.

I think bringing outsiders in to see what weve got going over here is good, Marco said. Trying to get those properties occupied and again revived this time. By bringing the color back to the village and people come out here they enjoy what we created. Shawn, our expert coffee barista, she's bringing a lot of joy out there with each cup.

For more information on Coffee and Cream, see the businesss Facebook page for menu highlights at www.facebook.com/CoffeeAndCreamMI.
In Killingworth, environmentalists and public officials are trying to stop the Boy Scouts of America from selling its wooded 252-acre Deer Lake Scout Reservation to a developer.

To date, the Scouts Connecticut Yankee Council has rejected two offers from nonprofit groups interested in preserving the land for open space or passive recreation, and it is entertaining an offer of $4.6 million from a New York developer.

A lawsuit has been filed to preserve the bird sanctuary on the property. The Killingworth Board of Selectmen passed a resolution strongly supporting preservation of the property.

The Deer Lake situation, on which the Council declined to comment, is another example of the whack-a-mole approach conservationists are often forced to take to save some of the states dwindling supply of open land. As with similar predicaments, it raises the question of how and where should the state grow and what lands should be protected.

Advocates say theres no time to waste.

Wild places still exist in Connecticut, but they wont if we dont do something to protect them. Parks and conservation are components of thriving communities, said Walker Holmes, Connecticut state director of the Trust for Public Land.

State of sprawl

For much of the 20th century, especially in the go-go years after World War II, residents left Connecticuts cities in droves for new homes in the suburbs. For example, Hartford had nearly 180,000 people in 1950 but 122,500 in 2020.

Formerly sleepy rural towns hummed with lawnmowers and weed wackers. The split-level ranch with a lawn and patio fulfilled the American Dream for countless residents.

However, much of the new development was low-density, hastily planned and dependent on cars  a pattern known as sprawl. And, as officials belatedly learned, sprawl had a downside.

Sprawl is the most serious environmental problem facing Connecticut, Karl Wagener, then-executive director of the states Council on Environmental Quality, told The Hartford Courant in 2005.

He and others in and out of government pushed for limits on sprawl. Some measures were enacted. A 2008 law created a responsible growth cabinet, and Gov. M. Jodi Rell created an Office of Responsible Growth. The states Plan of Conservation and Development was refocused on growth management principles.

These measures were, at best, partially successful.

Sprawl continues, said Nathan Frohling of The Nature Conservancy in Connecticut, one of several nonprofits that work to preserve open space.

Connecticut has done a terrible job of reining in sprawl, said Sara Bronin, Cornell University law professor and founder of Desegregate Connecticut, a housing and land-use reform coalition.

Though Bronin and some others think sprawl is still the states major environmental challenge, it has somewhat fallen off the radar screen. Theres now more attention being paid to climate change mitigation. But they may be two sides of the same coin.

So many of the things weve been trying to do for conservation and the environment related to sprawl have a direct connection either to climate mitigation or adaptation, Frohling said.

A 30-member study group, the Commission on Connecticuts Development and Future, formed by the General Assembly a year ago to evaluate policies related to land use, conservation, housing affordability and infrastructure, could offer solutions when it reports its findings next year, though it appears more focused on process than substance.

The new variant

The nature of sprawl has changed somewhat in recent years. For one thing, residential subdivisions tend not to be as big as they were a few decades ago, said Eric A. Santini, a builder and president of the Home Builders & Remodelers of Connecticut.

He said developments now trend toward 20 or 30 units, rather than 80, 90 or more years ago. For example, a developer announced plans in April to build 34 three-bedroom houses on former farmland in Canton.

The bigger change may be the surge in multifamily construction, with major apartment complexes going up in suburban towns across the state.

Towns are starting to realize they need a variety of housing, not just single-family homes on 1-acre lots, Santini said.

He said apartments give young adults or downsizing Baby Boomers the option to stay in town. He said multi-family housing helps both the tax base and local businesses. All well and good, said state Rep. Jason Rojas, D-East Hartford, chair of the Commission on Connecticuts Development and Future, depending on where it is built. He said the surge in apartments is a two-edged sword  we need the housing, but if it is built in the wrong place, we get sprawl and its negative effects.

What would those be?

The downside

The effects of sprawl have been extensively studied over the past 25 years (see here, here and here). Most agree that sprawl:

Causes the loss of forests, farmland and other open space. Connecticut has lost thousands of acres of forest and farms over the past half century. A major study by the University of Connecticuts Center for Land Use Education and Research, using satellite imagery, found that from 1985 to 2015, the state lost 115,200 acres of forested land and 39,680 acres of agricultural fields to development and related land covers, what the study calls urban footprint. The state now has more land in grass and turf (8 percent) than farms (7 percent).

Induces more driving, which translates to more congestion, greenhouse gas emissions and other air pollution, energy use and lost time. Spread-out development discourages both use of transit and walking, leading to issues with obesity and related illnesses.

Necessitates the construction and expense of more infrastructure and increases the cost of services.

Threatens the quality of streams and rivers, because the loss of vegetation and increase in paved surfaces causes more runoff.

Abets segregation by race and class, isolating the poor in core cities and, sometimes, the elderly in the suburbs.

Limits housing production, a situation belatedly being addressed in some communities with multifamily construction. Instead of big houses on large lots, more compact construction could have yielded more dwelling units at lower cost.

Smart growth

The antidote to sprawl is called smart growth, or responsible growth. The idea, in broad terms, is to draw development to town centers and transit corridors, where infrastructure and services already exist, and by doing so lessen the pressure to develop farmland and forest tracts.

State officials have taken steps consistent with smart growth in recent years, such as major investments in housing in downtown Hartford and other cities. The states brownfield remediation programs have put urban land back in use. Two new transit systems have been developed, the Hartford Line rail service from New Haven to Springfield and CTFastrak, the bus rapid transit line from Hartford to New Britain.

The surest way to protect open space from sprawl is to own it or own the development rights to it. The states open space and farmland acquisition programs continue, albeit slowly, toward their preservation goals.

In 1997, the General Assembly passed a law requiring that 21 percent of Connecticuts land area  a total of 673,210 acres  be preserved as open space. The deadline to complete the work is 2023.

It wont be met.

After the first several years, funding trailed off. At present, 513,310 acres, or 76.2 percent of the goal, have been preserved, according to Department of Energy and Environmental Protection figures. The plan is that the state would own 10 percent of the protected land, and its partner organizations, such as land trusts, towns or water companies, would own 11 percent. The state is at 71 percent of its 10 percent portion of the goal, and if the pace of acquisition  an average of 879 acres a year over the past 10 years  doesnt pick up, it will take more than 60 years to reach it, according to the Council of Environmental Qualitys 2021 annual report.

But officials are buoyed by a grant of $15 million from the legislature this year for open space.

We will be taking a very ambitious approach over the next few years to get to that goal, said Andrew Hoskins, DEEPs chief of staff, who oversees the land acquisition program. It is guided by the Comprehensive Open Space Acquisition Strategy, or Green Plan, which targets the highest value conservation and recreation lands.

Over at the state Department of Agriculture, its farmland preservation program is even farther away from its goal. In the late 1970s, the state set a goal of preserving 130,000 acres of farmland, a number thought necessary for the state to be able to feed itself. More than four decades later, 401 farms and 47,510 acres have been permanently protected through the program.

State Department of Agriculture Commissioner Bryan Hurlburt said the process in the first decades of the program was cumbersome and expensive. The department had to get individual bond approval for each farm and did not work with federal or private partners to leverage state funds. He said that has now changed and the process is moving more expeditiously.

He said it took the department 35 years to preserve 300 farms but only eight years to protect the next 100 farms. He noted that agriculture is a $4 billion industry in the state that provides 22,000 jobs, growing everything from tobacco to tulips.

Zoning and taxes

Open space acquisition has never been able to keep pace with the demand for development, so it cannot be the sole means of controlling sprawl. Two other measures that would encourage smart growth, advocates say, are zoning reform and less reliance on local property taxes.

Bronin said zoning is a major factor driving sprawl in the state. Desegregate CT compiled a zoning atlas of all the states zoning districts and learned that through zoning, the vast majority of towns make it easiest to build single-family homes on large lots and difficult to build any other kind of housing. Nine towns allow nothing but single-family housing.

As a result, we build ourselves into the sprawl we see all around us, with the destruction of farmlands and forests  zoning dictates these results, she said.

Sprawl means you have to build roads, water and sewer facilities and streetlights, and the burden of paying for and maintaining them falls on the towns. Why wouldnt you want to offer an alternative? We need a complete rethinking of the way we approach land development in Connecticut, she said.

Desegregate CT successfully pushed for a bill in 2021 that made some zoning-related changes, such as allowing accessory apartments on single-family lots, and it created the Commission on Connecticuts Development and Future. The coalition continues to push for changes that would allow mixed-use, mixed-income, multi-family development in town centers and transit corridors.

Another nonprofit working on zoning reform, The Open Communities Alliance, is promoting the concept of fair share zoning, in which towns would agree to build their share of the states affordable housing need. Towns would get to choose where to build the housing; Alliance director Erin Boggs thinks they would likely decide to construct multifamily housing in or near town centers, not sprawl in the countryside.

The Commission on Connecticuts Development and Future is looking to develop model design guidelines for both buildings and streets that municipalities may adopt as part of their zoning regulations and which could help produce more mixed-use density in town centers.

Free-for-all

Another driver of sprawl is the states heavy reliance on property taxes. The group 1000 Friends of Connecticut has focused on the property tax issue and released a report in December titled Connecticut Property Taxes: Opportunity for Change.

Connecticut, the report says, relies on the property tax to fund government services to a far higher degree than most other states. The study cited data on the distribution of tax burden, called tax incidence, that showed nearly 42 percent of the state and local taxes paid in the state were property taxes, and that, on average, municipalities realize an average 73.4 percent of their revenues from the local property tax.

The system taxes equivalent properties differently depending on which town they are in. It impedes economic development. It also drives sprawl.

The over-reliance on property taxes fosters fragmentation  forcing Connecticuts 169 cities and towns to compete with one another  land-use boards make decisions based on what members believe (often incorrectly) will increase property tax revenues such as attempting to attract high valuation properties at the expense of preserving farmland and open space, the report states.

Gov. Ned Lamonts 2022 budget contained some modifications to the property tax but did not change its fundamental structure.

Elisabeth Moore, executive director of the Connecticut Farmland Trust, said heavy reliance on property taxes, coupled with a lack of strong regional or state planning, creates a free-for-all, 169 towns driven by the need for tax revenue. Everybody wants a Walmart even if there is one in the next town.

Good plan, no teeth

The state plan that directly addresses sprawl, at least theoretically, is the Plan of Conservation & Development. The plan, prepared every five years by the state Office of Policy and Management, is an overarching statement of state policy in matters pertaining to land and water resource conservation and development, as stated in a February report on the implementation of the plan.

Implementation is not a strong point. The plan is mostly advisory  it is supposed to guide the land use activities of state agencies. It apparently doesnt do that very well.

Agencies are supposed to request an advisory opinion from OPM on all but minor projects. However, agencies make their own determination of a projects consistency with the State C&D Plan and only rarely seek input from OPM, according to the February report.

Its a good plan, it checks all the boxes, but wheres the implementation? Where are the metrics to determine if it is working? asked Stewart Chip Beckett, of Glastonbury, a member of the Commission on Connecticuts Development and Future, which among other things is looking at the planning processes for conservation and housing.

Its not clear that the Plan of Conservation and Development is a high priority with the legislature. The 2018-2023 plan was only adopted this year, four years late.

Lack of a strong implementation mechanism in the plan can create a disconnect between policy and practice. For example, one of the plans growth management principles is to concentrate development around transportation nodes and along major transportation corridors.

If compliance were made a condition of state investment, it might have resulted in the creation of an overlay zone along transit lines, to allow multifamily, multi-use development near the stations. As is typical in Connecticut, some towns have done this on their own, but most have not.

Desegregate CT proposed a bill this year that would have required towns to zone some of the land within a half-mile of transit stations for more diverse housing. The transit-oriented community bill was similar to one that was adopted in Massachusetts last year, but it did not pass in Connecticut.

Without more impactful state or regional planning, conservationists are often forced into the whack-a-mole mode, as in Killingworth, where they find out about land going on the market and try to save it before it is sold for development.

Sometimes we have to act quickly, said Amy Blaymore Paterson, executive director of the Connecticut Land Conservation Council, which represents the states 130 nonprofit land trusts, increasingly important players in land conservation.

The hit-or-miss approach to land conservation by definition includes some hits. A spectacular example was the protection of a nearly 1,000 acre coastal forest in the lower Connecticut River Valley called The Preserve in 2015 after many years of conservation efforts.

On the other hand, in nearby East Lyme, conservationists have been fighting for more than a decade, in and out of court, to stop development of a 236-acre portion of the Oswegatchie Hills, a heretofore undeveloped coastal forest along the scenic Niantic River. Coastal lands are among the Green Plan preservation priorities.

Climate

Though the battles continue, the war against sprawl seems to have taken a back seat to concerns about climate change. Thats not necessarily bad, said Frohling, of the Nature Conservancy. The issues, he said, are not incompatible.

Climate change mitigation is about reducing greenhouse gas emissions, which threaten to toast the planet. In Connecticut, according to a 2016 legislative study, the largest source of greenhouse gases is the transportation sector, at 38 percent. Residential and commercial buildings together add another 25 percent.

That would argue for transit-oriented development, to reduce driving and encourage more compact housing. Author David Owen reported in his 2009 book Green Metropolis  What the City Can Teach the Country About True Sustainability that for fossil fuel use per capita, the greenest city in the country is New York City, because most residents live in buildings with shared walls, which are more energy efficient than free-standing homes, and most walk, bike or use transit.

Another environmental daily double, a precept of both smart growth and climate mitigation, is preserving core forests. Frohling said preserving forests and preventing their fragmentation is vitally important for several reasons: carbon sequestration, water quality protection, plant and animal habitat and absorption of storm surges from the increasingly erratic weather patterns.

Lamont has taken some steps to address the climate issue. In December, he signed an executive order addressing greenhouse gas reduction on many fronts and involving many state agencies. He recently signed two bills, one calling for a carbon-free electric grid by 2040 and another promoting smaller renewable energy projects.

Reining in sprawl would help the cause. To do that, said David Anderson, of Save The Sound, We need to tackle it on both ends, by allowing high density in transit nodes and town centers served by water and sewer, and at the other end by protecting environmental assets that are inappropriate for development and more suited to conservation.

The latter would appear to describe the Deer Lake property in Killingworth. As to its fate, First Selectman Nancy Gorski said in an email Friday there was no news.
DUBUQUE, Iowa (AP)  The new Habitat for Humanity store that will benefit area housing projects is now filled to the brim with donated building materials and assorted furniture.

The store was celebrated last week by a three-day, pre-opening sale of Dubuque and Jackson Counties Habitat for Humanitys ReStore at 4949 Chavenelle Road. The sale gave those attending a sneak peek at the new location, which is housed in the same building as the business First Supply.

The ReStore will sell donated building materials, furniture and other housing materials. While the sales will help sustain store operating costs, the enterprise also will raise funds for Habitat for Humanitys homebuilding projects for families in need.

Theres an environmental aspect to it, said Erica Haugen, executive director of the nonprofit organization. Theres tons and tons of waste we will be able to divert from the landfill. Volunteers will be able to take a lot of items and get those back into the hands of people that can use them.

Rachel Daack, chair of the ReStore committee, told the Dubuque Telegraph Herald that an exact opening date cannot be determined until a store manager is hired.

Thats probably our sticking point now, she said. Its a big job, but itll be exciting.

Daack said she and other members of the committee have worked on opening a Dubuque ReStore location since 2019.

It struck me that we have the market for this, she said. I know people want to donate, and they want to be thrifty. We are the right community as donors and as shoppers.

Haugen added that the pre-opening sale also was prompted by a need for more inventory space in the 8,200-square-foot facility. A large donation was given to the store last year by the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary at Mount Carmel Bluffs in Dubuque, and she said extra space is needed for more donations.

Haugen said the ReStore will be open one day per week to start. Then, she hopes to work up to having the ReStore open three days per week for shopping and two days per week for donations.

We will do a soft opening as we work into it, she said. Its going to be heavily dependent on volunteers in the community who have been helping to get this store brought to Dubuque.

Bev Wagner, who also is the Dubuque Metropolitan Area Solid Waste Agencys education and communication coordinator, was volunteering her time at the ReStore on Thursday.

Ive been familiar with ReStores for several years, and Ive always thought we needed one, she said of the Dubuque location. Im happy to see it open.

Since Habitat for Humanity came to Dubuque 31 years ago, Haugen said at least 31 families have been served through homebuilding and home-repair projects. Those projects provide housing opportunities at price points of less than $200,000 and go to families who might not be able to enter the housing market otherwise, she said.

We hope that the store will first of all diversify our income and resources so we can continue to serve at least one family a year, she said. We would like to have two families a year pretty quickly here.

Daack said the store also will help promote Habitat for Humanity and provide further education on its housing program.

Right now, people dont know theres a Habitat for Humanity in Dubuque, partially because theres not a big storefront, she said.

She added that the location, near both Lowes and Menards in Dubuque, is a perfect place for people to both stop to drop off and search for items while thinking about their next home improvement project.

It gives us both donor convenience and shopping alternatives, she said.
AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP)  A candidate in a runoff for mayor of Georgias third-largest city is announcing a plan to redevelop a site where a long-vacant mall stood until 2020.

Steven Kendrick of Augusta made the announcement last week, with several Augusta commissioners.

The redevelopment plan for the Regency Mall's site would include 1,000 two-bedroom apartments, a K-12 school, a 300-seat performing arts center, a restaurant, a grocery store and a fitness center, news outlets report.

The growth and revitalization of South Augusta is just beginning, Kendrick told local news outlets as he unveiled plans for what would be called Cardinal Town Square.

Kendrick, the former Richmond County tax commissioner, is in a June 21 runoff with Garnett Johnson for mayor of the consolidated city-county. The third-place finisher endorsed Johnson last week. Kendrick and Johnson each received about 39% of the vote on May 24.

An architect who helped draw plans told WRDW-TV the redevelopment would cost $100 million to $175 million.

What was once a major retail draw sat vacant for nearly two decades before demolition began in 2020. Neighboring business owners say they've seen the area decline during the period. Most of the Augusta area's suburban growth has occurred in Columbia County during the period.

Many ideas have been floated to reuse the land, but Kendrick said this one is backed by the property owners.

I realize there may be skepticism, but this opportunity is different and the actual plans have been submitted to Augusta planning and development for approval of this transformational project from work done from local architects and engineers," he said.

For now, Kendrick said private money will pay for the redevelopment. But Kendrick is also chair of the Augusta Economic Development Authority. He said the authority has not been asked about bonds to finance the project.
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ATHENS, Greece (AP)  Greek firefighters on Sunday were battling a wildfire for a second day near two Athens suburbs.

Local media reported some damage to houses as well as vehicles, with 65 fire engines and 283 firefighters still operating in the area.

Authorities said that while the blaze has abated, it's still ongoing. No official damage estimate was available and would be done once the fire is over, officials said.

Greek authorities on Saturday ordered the evacuation of parts of the southern Athens suburbs of Voula and Glyfada as a precaution when strong winds fanned the blaze and threatened residential areas.

Thick black smoke from the fire could be seen as far as Piraeus, about 20 kilometers (12 miles) away.

Officials defended the states response to the fire, saying it was prompt but was hampered by the mountainous terrain, high winds which occasionally reached gale force and the fact that there were three separate fires breaking out almost simultaneously.

The fire started in the early afternoon Saturday. According to Deputy Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Minister Evangelos Tournas, the first fire engines were on the spot 12 minutes after the alarm was given and, eight minutes later, firefighting planes and helicopters, 17 in total, lifted off to join the efforts.

Despite the great collective effort, there was limited damage to some homes ... but we avoided injuries or loss of life, Tournas said, adding that there were 61 fires across Greece on Saturday.

Hot and dry weather, combined with frequent high winds, make Greece especially vulnerable to wildfires during summer.

Last August, wildfires devastated the northern half of the island of Evia, Greeces second largest. These and other major fires stretched the countrys firefighting capability to the limit and required aid from 24 European and Middle Eastern countries, which sent planes, helicopters, vehicles and hundreds of firefighters.

On Thursday, the European Commission said that more than 200 firefighters and technical equipment provided by European Union countries will be soon deployed to Greece to allow for a swift response to large wildfires.

We are still in the beginning of summer and our aim is to moderate the harsh consequences of those new phenomena caused by the climate crisis, said Christos Stylianides, Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Minister. Summer will be tough...weather forecasts show that, in the Eastern Mediterranean region, a climate crisis hot spot, things will, unfortunately, not be easy."
BATON ROUGE, La. (AP)  A Louisiana judge has turned down a plan to create a new city in East Baton Rouge Parish, but says the boundaries were not drawn to exclude Black people.

Retired 22nd Judicial District Judge Martin Coady rejected plans last week for the proposed City of St. George, news outlets reported. His opinion said the city would not be able to balance its budget and its creation would cost Baton Rouge government $48 million.
PARIS (AP)  Fierce thunderstorms and hailstorms around France left one woman dead and 14 people injured, ravaged vineyards and delayed flights.

Lightning hit the Eiffel Tower, without causing damage, and set roofs on fire east of Paris, according to local authorities. Residents of southwest France posted photos online of hail the size of tennis balls, and drivers in the Paris region shared images of flooded highways and daytime skies blackened by thunder clouds.

Thousands of households remained without electricity Sunday after the storms struck across France on Saturday, according to utility Enedis. Flights out of Paris Orly Airport were temporarily suspended Saturday, and there were delays at Charles de Gaulle Airport.

A woman swept away by flooding was found dead under a car in the historic Normandy city of Rouen, Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin tweeted. The circumstances of the death were unclear.

In the Loire Valley, thousands of young people who were taking part in a huge scout gathering had to take refuge in the Chateau of Chambord as hail, thunder and lightning pounded the area. The chateau director told public broadcaster France-Info that some children were treated for signs of hypothermia but no serious injuries were reported.

Rains also lashed Normandy beaches as veterans and others gathered for the 78th anniversary of the World War II D-Day invasion against the Nazis.
By Trend





Ankara to host trilateral meeting of foreign ministers of Azerbaijan, Turkiye and Turkmenistan, Turkish minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said, Trend reports citing local media.

According to him, meeting will be held on June 6.

In addition, over the next two weeks, in general, the heads of foreign affairs departments of nine countries, including Russia, will visit Turkiye on official visits.
Maputo  Mozambique's main opposition party, Renamo, has claimed it would be unconstitutional to postpone the elections for district assemblies, scheduled for 2024, as suggested by President Filipe Nyusi on Saturday.

Speaking to reporters in Maputo on Monday, after the opening of a meeting of the Renamo National Council, the party's national spokesperson, Jose Manteigas, said that the Constitution envisages district elections "which are the culmination of the decentralization process, and we all know that it brings advantages to any state".

He claimed that the district elections would bring services closer to citizens. They would "allow citizens to choose their leaders. We cannot allow dictatorial and imposed governments".

By suggesting a postponement, he added, Nyusi "is trying to stop the wind with his hands",

The Constitution does indeed say that the first district assemblies will be elected in 2024, but the country's parliament, the Assembly of the Republic, could easily amend this clause, if it felt that holding district elections in 2024 would be impractical.

On one point Manteigas is certainly wrong - citizens will not elect district administrators, at least not directly. Just as with the municipalities and the provinces, the district assembly elections will be organized on a party list basis. The head of the list of whichever party wins will become the new district administrator. The administrator heads a district government, known as the District Executive Council, which answers to the District Assembly.

The Constitution says nothing else. The powers of the District Administrator and of the District Executive Council are to be fixed by laws which do not yet exist. Nobody yet knows how the district assemblies will be financed.

There are 154 districts (more, if urban districts are included). Nobody yet knows how large these assemblies will be. But if there is an average of only 30 members per assembly, that is still an extra 4,620 people who must be found wages or allowances.

Even if Renamo loses the elections heavily, it is bound to have several hundred of its members sitting in the new assemblies, which is doubtless why it is so keen that the elections should go ahead.
AP

LOS ANGELES (AP)  A veteran Los Angeles police officer was sentenced to six months in jail after pleading guilty to stealing a $29,000 pickup truck from a dealership, according to court records.

Officer Matthew Calleros was arrested in 2020 at the Los Angeles police station where he worked  and where the missing 2015 Chevy Silverado was parked.
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After the mass shooting at a Texas elementary school, schools around the country pledged to boost security measures and increased the presence of law enforcement on campus  partly to reassure parents and students.

But police inside schools can make some students more uneasy, not less. Especially for Black students and other students of color, their personal experiences with policing can leave them feeling unsafe and alienated from school when they see officers on campus.

High school senior Malika Mobley has seen three different school resource officers patrolling the campus in Raleigh, North Carolina. Once on the way home from school, Mobley saw officers detain a visibly distraught classmate and push the student into the back of a police vehicle.

They were crying, Why are you doing this to me? I didnt do anything,' said Mobley, co-president of Wake County Black Student Coalition. I was just forced to stand there and couldn't do anything.

Since 2020, the student group has advocated for eliminating police officers from school buildings in favor of investing in counselors and support staff for students.

We dont see police presence as part of the solution, Mobley said. If you really think about why police dont make us safer, you can draw connections to all types of tragedies that impact the most marginalized among us.

Police officers have a regular presence at schools across the country in recent decades, often in the form of school resource officers, who are tasked with building relationships with young people to promote trust of law enforcement, providing security, and enforcing laws. Critics say having armed police on campus often results in Black students being disproportionately arrested and punished, leading to what they call the school-to-prison pipeline.

Researchers have found that Black students report feeling less safe around police officers than their white peers and that officers in predominantly Black school districts were more likely to view students themselves to be threats.

Black students and other students of color also are disproportionately likely to have negative interactions with police in schools, ranging from referrals to law enforcement to being arrested or restrained, said Katherine Dunn, director of the Opportunity to Learn program at the Advancement Project. Since 2007, the Advancement Project has documented at least 200 instances of officers at schools assaulting students, she said.

It shows all the physical harms that young people experience by police," she said. "It's also the experience of being degraded and made to feel like a criminal because you have to walk down the hallway to your class with several armed cops, who are not there for your safety, who you see arrest your friends, assault your friends.

In 2018, after the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, the state Legislature passed laws mandating public schools to have either law enforcement or armed personnel present on campuses.

A study of the law's impact by F. Chris Curran, a University of Florida professor, found the expanded police presence was followed by an increase in school arrests and the number of reported behavioral incidents. He said there are many factors to consider in deciding the role police play in schools.

I'd like to see that conversation include thoughtful considerations of potential benefits, decreasing certain kinds of behaviors, but also the potential unintended consequences, if that's increasing the likelihood students are arrested or potentially increasing racial disparities in discipline and arrest rates, Curran said.

While there are examples of school resource officers who have intervened in incidents of gun violence, Curran said, the presence of law enforcement does not always guarantee that shootings or other violence won't occur, or that the officer would be immediately effective at stopping the perpetrator and minimizing casualties.

In a statement issued this week on best practices for school security in the wake of the Uvalde, Texas, shooting, the National Association of School Resource Officers emphasized the importance of having a carefully selected, specifically trained SRO on its campus whenever school is in session.

The nonprofit group has rejected criticism that officers contribute to a school-to-prison pipeline. Officers who follow its best practices, it says, do not arrest students for disciplinary issues that would be handled ordinarily by educators.

As elsewhere around the country last week, the police presence was increased outside schools across North Carolina to provide reassurance to families in the wake of the Uvalde, Texas shooting.

Wake County schools have 75 school resource officers, drawn from several local law enforcement agencies.

The Wake County Black Student Coalition's campaign to remove the officers stemmed partly from student accounts of bad experiences with officers, including a 2017 incident where a school resource officer was filmed picking up a Black girl and slamming her to the ground, said Chalina Morgan-Lopez, a high school senior who is co-president of the student group.

I think it's a reasonable response to want more officers in schools, especially from people who genuinely do feel protected by law enforcement, even though that's not my lived experience," Morgan-Lopez said. "But I think people need to take into account ... that officers do in fact do more harm than they do good."

Last summer the school system made several changes to its school resource officer program, including a new process for fielding grievances involving officers and adjustments to training to prepare them better for the school environment, said Lisa Luten, a spokesperson for the school system. The review was based on community feedback the district sought in the wake of the killing of George Floyd and the resurgence of the Black Lives Matter movement, Luten said.

This is not a new conversation for us," she said. That certainly brought it back to light.

___

Ma, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, writes about education and equity for APs Race and Ethnicity team. Follow her on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/anniema15

___

The Associated Press reporting around issues of race and ethnicity is supported in part by the Howard Hughes Medical Institutes Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
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LOS ANGELES (AP)  Jennifer Lopez made an emotional speech about how believers and skeptics contributed to her success, as she accepted a career achievement honor at the MTV Movie & TV Awards on Sunday.

I want to thank the people who gave me joy and the ones who broke my heart  the ones who were true and the ones who lied to me, said Lopez, who nabbed this year's Generation Award for actors whose diverse contributions have made them household names. She also took home best song  a new category  for the track On My Way from the Marry Me" soundtrack.

MTVs youth-focused celebration of film and TV offered a lighter, breezier awards show, with 26 categories in gender-neutral categories like best villain, best kiss and new category here for the hookup. Hosted by Vanessa Hudgens, the ceremony returned to a live format after being pre-recorded for several years.

Lopez shed tears as she thanked fans, her longtime manager and children for teaching me to love, bringing the audience to their feet at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California.

I want to thank the people who gave me this life," said Lopez, 52, later adding, Youre only as good as the people who you work with. But if youre lucky, they make you better. Ive been very lucky in that regard.

Lopez's first breakthrough came as a dancer on the 1990s sketch comedy series In Living Color. She pursued an acting career and landed a leading role in Selena in 1997. She would go on to appear in such films including Anaconda, Out of Sight, The Wedding Planner, Hustlers and her latest, Marry Me.

As a singer, Lopez has earned success on the pop and Latin charts with multiple hit songs and albums. She released her multi-hit debut On the 6 in 1999 and topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart with songs like If You Had My Love, All I Have and the remixes of Im Real and Aint It Funny.

And in 2020, Lopez performed during the Super Bowl halftime show alongside Shakira.

Spider-Man: No Way Home entered the awards as the leading nominee with seven. It took home best movie, and the films star Tom Holland won for best performance in a movie. With almost $1.9 billion earned at the box office, it was the biggest film of the year and a fan favorite, but was largely overlooked by the major awards shows.

Zendaya won for best performance in a show for her role in Euphoria, which came away with best show. The HBO series also won here for the hookup.

Early in the broadcast, 19-year-old singer Olivia Rodrigo won best music documentary for her project Olivia Rodrigo: driving home 2 u. Rodrigo, who won three Grammys this year including best new artist, spoke about the importance of creating the film, which involves a road trip, live performances and reflections on her debut album Sour.

I made driving home 2 u for the fans, especially those who couldnt come to see me on tour, Rodrigo said.

Jack Black also received a career achievement award, Comic Genius. He ran onstage and seemed almost out of breathe before giving his acceptance speech.

I need a little blast of oxygen, he said before rattling off several films he starred in, like School of Rock and two Jumanji films. He played in other comedies including Shallow Hal," Tropic Thunder" and the animated Kung Fu Panda franchise films, where Black voiced the main character.

Comedic genius. Cmon are you kidding? For what? he said. I dont deserve this, but Ill take it.

The ceremony kicked off with Loki star Sophia Di Martino winning breakthrough performance for her role as Sylvie on the Disney Plus television series. After the actor claimed her trophy, she talked about being 9 months pregnant when she was offered the role, and her baby being just 3 months old when she started filming.

Its been quite the journey, so this really means a lot to me, she said. Thank you to the audience. Its all for you. Thank you for letting Sylvie into your imaginations.

Daniel Radcliffe won best villain for his portrayal of a billionaire in the adventure comedy The Lost City.

Diplo and Swae Lee performed Tupelo Shuffle from the upcoming Elvis biopic from director Baz Luhrmann.
MONROE, N.C. (AP)  A North Carolina man has been sentenced to death for the 2019 murder of his teenage daughter, according to the local prosecutor's office.

The Union County District Attorney's Office said in a news release Friday that a jury handed the sentence down after about three hours of deliberations following the three-week trial of 35-year-old Joshua Lee Burgess.
MORROW, Ga. (AP)  Arson has destroyed three adjacent historic homes owned by a city near Atlanta, officials said.

Mayor John Lampl wept as he looked over the wreckage in Morrow on Saturday evening, WXIA-TV reported.

What leads the investigators right now to believe that these fires were intentionally set is the intensity and speed with which the fire burned, Interim Police Chief David Snively told the station.

The city of Morrow is offering up to $10,000 to anyone with information that leads to an arrest, news outlets reported.

The loss of these beautiful, historic homes at the heart of our city is a cruel blow to the residents and community members who utilize this area," Lampl said.

The buildings included one on the National Register of Historic Places, City Manager Jeff Baker told WXIA. That ones the Greek Revival building called the Napier-Small house, which was built in 1846.

This is a devastating setback just as weve begun to turn the corner and fill the long-vacant spaces at The District; and it is an especially tragic loss of history," Baker said.

People were in one of the houses around 8:45 p.m. Friday night, and the fire was visible by midnight, officials said.

Police are asking for calls from anyone who saw people around then in The District, a city-owned community space in Morrow, WSB-TV reported.

The city plans to rebuild the houses, Lampl told WXIA.
ISLAMABAD (AP)  Pakistan's military says security forces killed seven militants in two different operations near the Afghan border on Sunday.

Five militants were killed in raid on a hideout in the Jani Khel area of Bannu district  the gateway to North Waziristan, they said in a statement. Two other militants were killed in a shootout in a tribal district of North Waziristan.
MESA, Ariz. (AP)  Two men were killed and two other people injured after a shooting outside a Mesa bar early Sunday, authorities said.

Mesa police said one of the injured was a security guard, but is expected to recover and the other person also had non-life threatening injuries.

Officers were called out to the scene of the shooting about 2:30 a.m. Sunday.

They reported that two men were found lying in the parking lot area with obvious gunshot wounds and were pronounced dead at the scene.

While searching the area, police found two more victims that had non-life-threatening injuries and both were taken to a hospital for treatment.

The names and ages of the victims and the two dead men weren't immediately released.

The first arriving officers reported seeing a car leaving the area at a high rate of speed.

Officers stopped the vehicle and said three people inside have been detained pending the outcome of the investigation.

Police said it was unclear what led to the shooting and if the people involved knew each other.

The shooting came a day after a 14-year-old girl was killed and eight others were wounded after a shooting amid a crowd of people at a strip mall northwest of downtown Phoenix.
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CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (AP)  A shooting near a Tennessee nightclub early Sunday led to three deaths and 14 people suffering gunshot wounds and other injuries, police said.

Fourteen people were hit by gunfire and three were hit by vehicles while trying to flee the scene, according to Chattanooga Police Chief Celeste Murphy. Two people died from gunshot wounds and one person died after being hit by a vehicle. Sixteen of the victims were adults and one was a juvenile and several remained in critical condition, she said.

Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly, who described himself as an avid hunter and gun owner, called on Congress to enact common sense regulations to address gun violence. Kelly is an independent.

That doesnt mean taking guns away from responsible gun owners, but it does mean mandatory background checks and prohibiting high-capacity magazines that allow shooters to hurt dozens of people without even having to reload, he said at a press conference. Kelly said his administration would announce new steps in the coming weeks aimed at reducing gun violence locally.

Officers responded to a report of a shooting at 2:42 a.m. on McCallie Avenue near a nightclub and found multiple victims upon arrival. Murphy said officers immediately began rendering aid and securing the scene.

There were multiple shooters and Murphy asked anyone in the community with information about the shooting to come forward. She said police believe it was an isolated incident and authorities don't believe there's an ongoing public safety threat.

Murphy said it would be a complex investigation going forward.

We're trying to determine exactly what happened and what led up to this taking place, she said.

The shooting comes the weekend after six juveniles were wounded during an exchange of gunfire in a downtown Chattanooga business district.

Its going to be a long summer, and we have got to get out in front of it and put a stop to it, Kelly said.

___

AP writer Rebecca Reynolds contributed from Simpsonville, Ky.
Maputo  Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi on Wednesday challenged the new leadership of the State Information and Security Service (SISE) to improve the use of modern methods to respond to crimes, including terrorism in the northern province of Cabo Delgado, and to anticipate enemy action.

He was speaking at the ceremony where he swore into office the new General Director of SISE, Bernardo Lidimba, and his deputy, Joia Aquirene. Lidimba succeeds Julio dos Santos Jane, who had been at the head of SISE since 2017.

Nyusi called for ever closer coordination amongst all the defence and security forces, who should all operate under a single command.

Teamwork and a permanent exchange of information at each level of the forces should be effective "so that we can obtain satisfactory and incisive results in our drive against the enemies of our sovereignty and of our state", he urged.

Nyusi added that Mozambicans want a SISE leadership that is ever more prudent in State matters, and that manages to recover the respect, trust and dignity of the organization.

SISE is recovering from a dark period in its history when it was the driving force behind the scandal of Mozambique's "hidden debts". A former SISE General Director, Gregorio Leao, and the then head of economic intelligence, Antonio Carlos do Rosario, are currently on trial before the Maputo City Court for their role in setting up three fraudulent companies which obtained loans of over two billion US dollars from the banks Credit Suisse and VTB of Russia for coastal protection and fishing projects that were never viable.

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Nyusi recalled that, in addition to terrorism and violent extremism, new threats are appearing. "I am referring, by way of example, to corruption in its various forms, to the illegal, lawless and unsustainable exploitation of natural resources, to organized transnational crime, money laundering, drug trafficking, tax evasion, maritime piracy, illegal immigration, kidnappings, armed robberies, and economic espionage", he said. "When it carries out its duties to the full, SISE contributes to preventing all acts that are assaults against the constitution".

Peace, security and development are the desired goals that the country is pursuing, he said, but recently peace has been threatened by aggression, which leads to rethinking the way of approaching challenges.

"This situation of violence based on terror, characterized by aggression which yesterday seemed far away, but is living with us today makes us aware that threats always exist which can never be ignored", declared Nyusi.

For his part, Lidimba said that terrorism cannot be stopped with words, but he hoped that, with SISE under his leadership, this evil will be eradicated.

"I believe that the team is ready", he added. "This is an evil which plagues society, and I believe that we shall end it. But I don't believe that evil is defeated with simple words. We have to work".
RICHMOND, Va. (AP)  The number of Virginia drug overdose deaths rose again in 2021, setting a record for a second year in a row, according to a state report.

Overdose deaths increased 15% in 2021 from the previous year, to 2,656, The Virginian-Pilot reported Saturday, citing the report from the Virginia Department of Health. The powerful synthetic opioid fentanyl was the driving force, causing or contributing to 76.5% of all overdose deaths in 2021, up from 2020.
LAKE CHARLES, La. (AP)  At the age of 85, Rita Bingham would have expected to be living the retired life in a state of relaxed peace. Instead, she finds herself leading the charge for animal rescue organizations across southwest Louisiana.

Sometimes I feel like Im the only one doing this. But I just keep going, Bingham said.

Bingham founded the low-kill Humane Society of West Louisiana, which operates out of a small headquarters located along the Lake Charles highway in DeRidder. There, Bingham houses the dozens upon dozens of animals that she accepts from other rescue organizations and abandoned animals brought to her by community members.

She has become one of the only locations for miles around that will accept cats, and she said she is seeing first-hand an epidemic of stray cats in Southwest Louisiana.

Its horrible, it really is. No one else is accepting them; the municipal shelters here arent taking them so where are they supposed to go, Bingham said.

She has operated the rescue for 23 years. She is the last remaining original board member of the nonprofit, and she continues to network throughout the area to provide the animals brought to her with their best chance at a healthy future. She provides them with medical attention through local veterinarians who partner with her and temporary homes with the number of animal fosters she has made connections with.

It was through those networks and connections that Bingham met Lori Dover, the founder of the St. Huckleberry Animal Fund in Lake Charles. Dover strives to provide a happy and healthy future for abandoned animals she rescues out of Lake Charles and the surrounding area, but a lack of rescues for cats brought her to Binghams door.

There is no one out there doing what Rita is doing. No one. I transport all of my rescues to Rita because through her determination and incredible will, she has been able to create a network of hope for these animals when no one else has, Dover said.

Indeed, Bingham works through social media channels and her local network of volunteers, that includes her personal friends and family members, to find homes for her rescued animals. She also spends every Saturday driving to Alexandria to participate in adoption events.

Still, in all her years, Bingham said she has never seen a cat overpopulation crisis like what she is seeing today.

I have never seen it like this. Not at this level, ever, Bingham stated.

Bingham currently has seven surrogate nursing mother cats each feeding their second litter of adopted kittens. Counting those nursing babes, Bingham now has 65 kittens under 12 weeks old in her care, not to mention the adult cats she has filling her 26 cat kennels.

She said those numbers are nothing when considering that she turns away more than 100 cats a day that are brought to her by community members. She said those are just the cats that she knows of, adding there are countless more that are roaming freely across DeRidder and Beauregard Parish because there is no animal control for cats in the area.

I can only take what I can take, but the biggest difference between me and any other rescue is that I answer the phone. You cant reach these other places no matter how many times you call. People forget that no is an answer, too. You just have to tell people that, Bingham said.

Bingham said that when she explains to people who bring her abandoned animals why she cannot take the animal, because she is beyond maximum capacity, she said their gratitude in being given an answer is almost always evident.

Those same individuals, Bingham said, will often assist her with fundraising efforts.

We have garage sales here at the rescue building and the same people I have to turn away will bring me items to sell and raise money with. All because I took the time to explain to them what Im dealing with. Then, they see the crisis that Im seeing, she said.

Dover echoed Binghams feelings on the seriousness of the issue at hand.

There is an animal welfare crisis unfolding before our eyes in Southwest Louisiana, Dover said.

Dover said the natural disasters that plagued the area since Hurricane Laura, and compounded by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, have only made the situation worse.

In answer to the crisis, Dover offered through her fund, a free Mobile Animal Sterilization Hospital event in Lake Charles last August. The event assisted 121 cats and Dover said she intends to make the event recurring, hoping to offer three each year.

For all her efforts, Dover said she would still be at a loss were it not for rescuers like Bingham.

She is a true rarity on so many fronts. I am so lucky and grateful to have met her, Dover said.

Bingham, however, is hardly one to focus on her own efforts.

During the aftermath of Hurricane Laura, Bingham housed more than 30 abandoned dogs in her home while continuing to network and care for animals that were brought to her because no one else would respond to requests, but she shrugs away any praise.

This is what I do. Because if I dont, then who will? Tomorrow there will be more animals and more phone calls, but you know what, Im still going to answer the phone.
MONCKS CORNER, S.C. (AP)  The South Carolina Department of Veterans Affairs is close to getting land for a new veterans cemetery from a public utility.

Santee Cooper would donate 90 acres near its headquarters in Moncks Corner in Berkeley County under a plan approved May 24 by the state legislative panel that oversees capital improvement projects, The State reported.

South Carolina has one of the nations largest per capita veteran populations, Veterans Affairs Secretary William Grimsley said. It has three national veterans cemeteries and one state veterans cemetery, and is looking to establish at least one more state veterans burial ground within the next decade, Grimsley said.

The state is home to about 400,000 veterans, nearly half of whom are 65 or older, and eight major U.S. military installations. While the veteran population in South Carolina is expected to decline somewhat in the decades ahead, the state should retain a higher concentration of veterans than most others, an advantage for securing federal dollars.

One or more new cemeteries would further expand the landscape of veterans services in South Carolina, which recently opened veterans nursing homes in Florence and Cherokee counties and has three more long-term care facilities for veterans in the works.

Over the past year, the veterans department has been scouting potential burial sites throughout the state and is attempting to get land donations in several locations, Grimsley said.

To qualify, a site must be easily accessible, have at least 60 acres of usable land with potential for expansion, be located more than 75 miles from any other veterans cemetery, among other conditions.

Once Veterans Affairs owns the land, the agency can apply for a grant from the National Cemetery Administration to cover development, construction and future burial costs, while the state would be responsible for day-to-day operations, staffing and landscaping, Grimsley said.

If Veterans Affairs does not receive federal grant approval, ownership reverts to the donor.

Local officials are talking with owners of sites in Bamberg and Union counties about possible donation, Grimsley said.

The Moncks Corner site is located along the U.S. Highway 52 bypass overlooking the Tailrace Canal and close to the historic sites of Fort Fairlawn, Stony Landing and the ruins of Biggin Church.

Santee Cooper acquired the land in 1991 but subsequently determined it did not need the property and has authorized its donation to Veterans Affairs.

Santee Cooper is honored to have the opportunity to play a role in bringing a veterans cemetery to our community, the utilitys general counsel wrote to the state's Joint Bond Review Committee. The land, which currently serves as a recreation area that includes an off-road bicycle trail, has been appraised at nearly $2.2 million.

More than 45,000 veterans and their family members are buried in South Carolinas four existing veterans cemeteries, located in Beaufort, Florence, Anderson and at Fort Jackson in Richland County, Grimsley said.

Beaufort, Florence and Fort Jackson are national cemeteries, accepting veterans from anywhere in the country. State cemeteries limit burial to South Carolina residents and service members who were stationed in the Palmetto State.

In addition to veterans, the cemeteries will accept one immediate family member.

All four of South Carolinas veterans cemeteries are active and accepting new burials, but the Beaufort and Florence national cemeteries, which were established in the 19th century, are expected to be at capacity within the next two decades, Grimsley said.

M.J. Dolly Cooper Veterans Cemetery in Anderson, which opened in 2007, should remain active in its current configuration until about 2050. Fort Jackson National Cemetery, which opened in 2009, wont be full until 2070, he said.
MANCHESTER, N.H. (AP)  The stepmother of a New Hampshire girl who went missing in 2019 has been arrested for perjury, police said.

Kayla Montgomery, 31, was arrested Friday at the Manchester Police Department when she arrived for a daily check-in, WMUR-TV reported. The check-ins are required as part of Montgomery's bail conditions after she was arrested on unrelated charges of receiving stolen firearms.

Manchester Police Chief Allen Aldenberg said Montgomery was arrested on two counts of perjury for lying to a grand jury. Other details were not immediately released. She is expected to be arraigned on Monday.

Her stepdaughter, Harmony Montgomery, was last seen in 2019 at age 5, but authorities didnt know she was missing until last year. She is still considered a missing person.

Aldenberg told WMUR-TV that the arrest is another step in the investigation into the whereabouts of Harmony Montgomery.

We will continue to do everything in our power to bring this case to a resolution, Aldenberg said.

Kayla Montgomery was previously charged with theft by deception after police said she falsely claimed that her stepdaughter was living with her in order to collect welfare benefits. She has pleaded not guilty and was released on bail last month.

Adam Montgomery, Harmonys father, has been indicted on an assault charge alleging that he struck Harmony in the face in July 2019. Hes also accused of unrelated firearms theft charges and has pleaded not guilty.

The couple, described as estranged, told police that Harmony was brought to be with her mother in Massachusetts around Thanksgiving 2019. Her mother said she last saw her daughter during a phone video conversation at around Easter that year.

Police have received hundreds of tips. Theyre offering $150,000 for information that will lead them to the missing child.
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Tropical Storm Alex, which became the first named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season Sunday, headed toward Bermuda after killing three people in Cuba and causing flooding in parts of Florida.

Alex reached tropical storm force after strengthening off Florida's east coast early Sunday.

The U.S. National Hurricane Center said Alex had strengthened a bit by late Sunday, with maximum sustained winds of 70 mph (110 kph). It was centered about 245 miles (395 kilometers) west of Bermuda.

It was moving to the east-northeast at a brisk 28 mph (44 kph) and was expected to pass just north of Bermuda on Monday. A tropical storm warning was in effect there. Forecasters said it could drop 1 to 2 inches (25 to 50 mm) of rain across Bermuda beginning late Sunday and into Monday.

National Security Minister Michael Weeks said emergency services were monitoring the storm.

In Cuba, Alex killed three people, damaged dozens of homes in Havana and cut off electricity in some areas, authorities reported.

Parts of South Florida experienced road flooding from heavy rain and wind Saturday. Officials in Miami were towing stranded vehicles from flooded roadways.

Miami Beach Mayor Dan Gelber said the storm tested the system of drainage pumps the city recently installed as climate change has increasingly made flooding an issue in the low-lying area.

We moved the water off pretty quickly, but in some areas, obviously, it was really challenging, Gelber said. There were some problems getting through on some streets, one of the main arteries was unpassable, but by and large water is dissipating.

Alex partially emerged from the remnants of Hurricane Agatha, which made landfall on on Mexicos southern Pacific Coast last week, killing at least nine people and leaving five missing as it moved overland.

The Atlantic hurricane season officially began Tuesday. This is an unusually early start to the storm season but not unprecedented for Florida.

___

This story corrects that the storm formed over the Atlantic, not Gulf of Mexico, and also fixes lowered official death toll in Mexico to nine.
CAIRO (AP)  Yemens warring parties resumed talks Sunday on reopening roads in Taiz and other provinces, the United Nations said, after they agreed to renew a nationwide cease-fire.

The U.N. mission to Yemen said delegations from the internationally recognized government and the countrys Iran-backed Houthi rebels began their second round of direct discussion in the Jordanian capital of Amman.

The mission did not provide further details.

The two sides did not reach an agreement on lifting the rebels blockade of Taiz, Yemens third largest city, in their first round of talks late last month.

Reopening the roads around Taiz and elsewhere in Yemen is part of a truce the U.N. brokered early in April. It was the first nationwide cease-fire in in six years in Yemens brutal conflict, now in its eighth year.

The Houthis have imposed a siege on government-held city of Taiz, the capital of the province by the same name, since March 2016.

The two sides agreed on Thursday to extend the truce for more two months after concerted pressure from the U.N. and international aid groups.

Yemens civil war erupted in 2014, when the Houthis seized the capital of Sanaa and much of northern Yemen and forced the government into exile. The Saudi-led coalition entered the war in early 2015 to try restore the government to power.

The conflict has created one of the worlds worst humanitarian crises and killed over over 150,000 people, including over 14,500 civilians.
WASHINGTON (AP)  For Ridge Alkonis, a U.S. Navy lieutenant living in Japan, a springtime trip with his wife and three children to Mount Fuji was intended as fun and leisurely family time before an expected deployment.

What happened next, and why, is a matter of dispute. But it gave rise to a three-year prison sentence.

In the telling by Alkonis' family and supporters, the naval officer abruptly lost consciousness in the car, causing him to slump over behind the wheel after suffering acute mountain sickness. Japanese prosecutors and the judge who sentenced him contend he fell asleep while drowsy, shirking a duty to pull over immediately.

No matter the cause, Alkonis' car veered into parked cars and pedestrians in a parking lot, striking an elderly woman and her son-in-law, both of whom later died. With a Japanese court set to hear an appeal Wednesday of Alkonis prison sentence, his parents are pleading for leniency for an act they say was nothing more than a terrible accident but that prosecutors view as deadly negligence. He is home in Japan pending the appeal.

The word that comes to our mind is fairness. We want him to be treated fairly for an accident, said Alkonis father, Derek Alkonis, of Dana Point, California. We dont feel like its been that way. We know it hasnt been that way. And it concerns us that our son has been given a three-year prison sentence for an accident.

The victims families could not be contacted by The Associated Press because their names are redacted in court records reviewed by the AP.

The upcoming hearing is the latest development in the case against Alkonis, 34, a specialist in underseas warfare and acoustic engineering who has spent nearly seven years in Japan as a civilian volunteer and naval officer.

In the spring of 2021, after a period of land-based assignments, the Southern California native was preparing for a deployment as a department head on the USS Benfold, a missile destroyer.

On May 29, 2021, with the assignment looming, his family set out for an excursion of Mount Fuji hiking and sightseeing.

They had climbed a portion of the mountain and were back in the car, heading to lunch and ice cream near the base of Mount Fuji. Alkonis was talking with his daughter, then 7, when his family says he suddenly fell unconscious behind the wheel. He was so out of it, they say, that neither his daughter's screams to wake up nor the impact of the collision roused him.

After the crash near Fujinomiya, he was arrested by Japanese authorities and held for 26 days in solitary confinement at a police detention facility, interrogated multiple times a day and was not given a medical treatment or evaluation, according to a statement of facts provided by a family spokesman. That statement says that when American authorities arrived to take Alkonis into custody and return him to a U.S. base, he already was held by the Japanese.

He was indicted on a charge of a negligent driving, resulting in death, and sentenced last October to three years in prison. The charge carries up to seven years imprisonment in Japan. He has appealed.

English-language court records obtained by the AP show that the judge expressed skepticism over the mountain sickness claim, citing an initial statement from Alkonis to police in which he said he felt drowsy after driving through mountainous curves.

He later testified to feeling sudden mountain sickness  a finding supported by a neurologist's June 2021 diagnosis  but the judge said such a sensation should have abated as Alkonis drove down the mountain.

The judge said that though it was conceivable Alkonis was suffering from light mountain sickness, it was difficult to imagine he went from not feeling drowsy at all to becoming suddenly incapacitated.

A Navy spokesperson said Alkonis remains on active duty and that the Navy has provided him and his family with the whole-person care and support they need. A lawyer for Alkonis declined to comment.

The case is playing out against the backdrop of long-standing concerns by Japan about bad behavior, however sporadic, by the tens of thousands of U.S. service members in the country and a sense that they are afforded preferential treatment. A 2014 AP investigation found that at U.S. military bases in Japan, most service members judged culpable in sex crimes in recent years did not go to prison, with offenders instead routinely punished by demotions, fines or removal from the military.

This case is different, though, in that Alkonis is not accused of acting with any nefarious intent, and he and his family say they have taken repeated steps to express remorse and to accept responsibility.

The family says they were encouraged by Alkonis' lawyer to cooperate, plead guilty and pay restitution to the victims' families  which they did, by signing a $1.65 million settlement, about half of which was raised from savings and friends and family.

Ridge has said from day one, minute one: All he wants to do is help this family. He feels the burden of what happened that day, said his mother, Suzi Alkonis. We all do.

Eric Feldman, a professor of Japanese law at the University of Pennsylvania, said that instinct is especially understandable in Japan, where the criminal justice system values expressions of remorse and where payment to victims can sometimes avert criminal prosecution. It's a system that gives particular focus to serving the interests of victims.

Theres a general view that what you dont want to do in Japan is to continue to proclaim ones innocence, Feldman said.

In this case, however, the criminal case has not gone away, and Suzi Alkonis said it was frustrating that displays of remorse can seem to actually work against her son in the courtroom. She feels anxiety for her son, uncertain of the lasting impact the case will have on his military career, but also pain for the victims.

There are people who make really bad decisions and theres mercy for people who make bad decisions, she said. We feel like we would love a little mercy because Ridge has spent his lifetime trying to make good decisions. And then to have an accident come out of the blue, its already hurt one family so badly  and its its hurting this one.

____

Associated Press writers Mari Yamaguchi in Tokyo and Lolita C. Baldor contributed to this report.
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UVALDE, Texas (AP)  Gilbert Limones and a coworker at a funeral home were among the first people shot at by the gunman who killed 19 children and two teachers at a Texas elementary school. Hes spent most of his days since helping prepare for the young victims burials and consoling shattered families.

On Sunday, Limones swapped his role of funeral attendant for that of a preacher trying to comfort a community and explain horror that defies easy answers. He's also the pastor at Casa El Shaddai, a small church located less than a mile from where the carnage occurred.

When tragedies happen, all the enemy needs is a willing vessel, Limones told his congregation of about 35, meeting for the first time in an old restaurant converted into a worship space.

While Limones didnt suffer any physical injuries, he said he is exhausted and wracked with guilt that he couldn't do something to stop the bloodshed. He has spent hours in tears or prayer, sometimes both at the same time.

Still, Limones tried to find the words to assuage his part of a heavily Hispanic town of 16,000 that's sad, confused and raw with emotion nearly two weeks after the slaughter. Satan brought confusion and hurt, he said, but the faithful have a defense.

Church, you are armed by this, he said, holding up a Bible. It was Limones' first sermon since the killing; he was too busy with work at the funeral home to serve last week.

Limones, who preaches in both Spanish and English, has salt-and-pepper hair and a smile thats wide in happy times. He was animated before the congregation, which meets just one right turn and another left away from Robb Elementary School and Hillcrest Memorial Funeral Home. The two sit on opposite sides of Geraldine Street, near where 18-year-old Salvador Ramos shot and wounded his grandmother in the face at home before the school attack.

On the morning of May 24, Limones and Cody Briseno, another funeral attendant at Hillcrest, heard a vehicle crash. A gray Ford pickup truck had come to rest in a concrete ditch behind the school and across from the funeral home, and they soon saw a man dressed all in black beside the passenger door, according to a search warrant.

Authorities said Limones and Briseno walked toward the man but retreated when they realized he was putting a magazine into a rifle. A shooter identified as Ramos fired multiple times at them.

Limones said he recalls hearing someone yell about a weapon and then turning, only to hear the pop, pop, pop of gunfire behind him. The shooter was within about 150 feet (46 meters) of him but missed somehow, Limones said.

Limones said he got away as quickly as he could, cringing at every shot, and calling police as soon as he could. I was screaming, screaming at 911, he said.

But Ramos turned the gun on the school's exterior and then entered the building through a door that authorities say didn't lock when a teacher pulled it shut. I saw it all, said Limones.

Inside, 19 fourth-graders were fatally wounded along with two teachers as police lining the hallways waited more than an hour to confront and kill Ramos. While nagging questions remain about the police response and exactly what happened in the school, the funerals of the victims began last week, with Hillcrest directing five of them.

So, despite his brush with the killer, Limones went back to his job at the family-owned funeral home, which is small and was quickly overwhelmed. It put out a plea for donations including tissues and cleaning supplies and got help from morticians from outside Uvalde.

Jason Horn, a volunteer funeral director from Longview, Texas, described working in shifts with others at Hillcrest to prepare the young victims for burial.

We had five cases that were extremely difficult cases, and all five families were able to see their babies, and they all decided to go ahead with open caskets, he said in a video about the effort. Simply compiling obituaries took time: Write-ups and photos of the dead accounted for most of three pages in the Thursday edition of the Uvalde Leader-News.

The most fortunate of the victims at Robb Elementary are recovering. Fourth-grade teacher Arnulfo Reyes, who was hospitalized with gunshot wounds, posted a public message on social media last week thanking friends for their prayers and love.

I have long journey ahead, but I know Ill get through it. My thoughts and prayers are with the families who continue to grieve their loved ones, said Reyes, who runs a small plant and gift store when not teaching.

Others are coping with a mix of emotions. After a school board meeting on Friday night, Angela Turner, the aunt of shooting victim Maranda Mathis, shook with anger as talked about the effect the shooting has had on her family.

I have a fourth-grader that was in the room next door thats terrified. My niece died. I have a 6-year-old that just told me, I dont want to go to school. Why, to be shot? I have one going into junior high. I have a third grader, Turner said. We want answers to where the security is going to take place. This was all a joke. Im so disappointed in our school district.

Another mother, Dawn Poitevent, said her 7-year-old son, who was scheduled to transfer to Robb Elementary next year, is afraid of school now and wants to remain at his current campus.

What he knows right now is that when he goes to another school he is going to get shot by a bad man, she said.

It's unclear where Poitevent's son might wind up but it won't be at Robb, which superintendent Hal Harrell has said will not reopen.

In his sermon, Limones said he believes the victims are in a better place, and he recounted the hundreds of people who have come to town with donations of food, water, prayers and more. Uvalde, he said, is surrounded by love.

While townspeople are hurting badly right now and seeking answers, he said, they need to come together. God's justice will ultimately prevail.

You don't think that the shooter is having to speak to our father about what he did? Limones said.

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More on the school shooting in Uvalde, Texas: https://apnews.com/hub/uvalde-school-shooting
BALTIMORE (AP)  At first, Michelle Rogers thought the Craigslist ad shed stumbled upon was a scam.

It sounded like something out of a science fiction film: Researchers were offering thousands of dollars to volunteers who were willing to give themselves the flu.

However strange it sounded, the experiment was the real thing. Vaccine researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine were testing just how much exposure to a current strain of influenza would cause infection as a way to prepare for future testing of antiviral drugs and vaccines.

When you or I get flu, we dont know exactly when we were exposed, right? We dont know exactly how much flu got into our nose and there are just lots of variables that we cant control, said Dr. Kathleen M. Neuzil, director of the schools Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health. So in this way, we can say we know we put X amount of flu virus in somebodys nose at X time, and this is what happens.

Studies like this are common fare for the center, which frequently provides critical vaccine research with the help of groups of paid volunteers. And following a hiatus due to the coronavirus pandemic, the studies are back  complete with eye-catching marketing campaigns.

For an upcoming study on the flu, which requires a 12-day hospital stay, ads include a cartoon hotel sign with the words Hotel Influenza, and the word vacancy illuminated in bright red. To advertise a study requiring a dengue fever infection, an animated mosquito dances beneath a disco ball in a white Saturday Night Fever-style suit. For a study testing a dysentery vaccine, it was a graphic inspired by the computer game Oregon Trail: a covered wagon pulled by an ox. And below it: You have died of dysentery.

For Rogers, a 24-year-old who drove to the School of Medicine from Chantilly, Virginia, the flu study was a way to make some extra cash between jobs ($3,410, to be exact). The downside? Nearly two weeks away from family and friends, plus her beloved yorkie and golden retriever mix  and a nasty case of the flu. But even after the headaches and congestion, the nasal washes and blood draws, Rogers felt shed made the right decision.

I thought about COVID and how it was super important to have people be a part of the study, Rogers said. Otherwise, we may not have gotten a vaccine as quickly as we did.

The center did administer early coronavirus vaccine doses for clinical trials, though notably without infecting anyone.

People were talking about doing challenge studies for COVID early on, to help accelerate vaccines, and I was very much against that, said Dr. Wilbur Chen, chief of the adult clinical studies section at the University of Maryland Center. We didnt have therapeutics at that time. We didnt have vaccines at that time. We also had a lot of cases around the world and across the U.S. and even in the state of Maryland at that time. So I could not, in my mind, justify the use of a challenge study.

The idea is to test vaccines with challenge studies, as theyre known, in places where the disease is relatively rare and to ensure that all participants wont be vulnerable to severe disease. For flu studies, that means screening possible participants for respiratory issues. For Chens study on dysentery, that meant checking for abdominal problems  and conducting genetic testing for HLA-B27 to ensure participants werent predisposed to contracting reactive arthritis after bacterial infections.

The Oregon Trail advertisement for Chens study caught the eye of 26-year-old Jake Eberts on Instagram. But his eventual stay in the dysentery ward provided the center with something possibly more valuable than the paid ads: a viral Twitter thread.

His first tweet about the study, days before he drank a Shigella bacteria smoothie that left him sicker than hed ever been, was liked about 4,000 times. Before he even left the hospital ward, a nurse told him 20 people had signed up for the next phase of the study and mentioned his thread, which carefully documented his experience on the ward as a self-described fancy little lab rat s---posting (no pun intended) his way through the maze.

Within 48 hours of my first thread, it had already gotten back to the researchers and nurses themselves, who asked me about it, Eberts said. And they were very chill with it. Like, I was terrified that they would tell me to stop and like would get really angry.

But all the tweets about dysentery might have been bad luck. Eberts suffered one of the worst cases in his 16-person cohort and was plagued by painful bouts of diarrhea and powerful fatigue. Perhaps his Twitter feed fared better for it.

It would have been kind of hilarious if I had been building up all the tension and ended up with an anti-climactic I didnt get it. Sorry everyone. Bye. he said.

The stomach pangs started in the middle of the night, some 40 hours after Eberts drank his shot glasss worth of bacteria, which he said tasted slightly saline and a bit oily but not bad. (Some of the headlines stemming from his tweets called it a poop smoothie. It wasnt.)

By that afternoon, rising for a vitals check and trips to the restroom, which required stool samples, were Herculean tasks, he said. After one walk, a mere 15 feet down the hall, Eberts found himself lying on the bathroom floor, utterly exhausted.

I was lying down in this bathroom that I share with other people and just like taking a cat nap and just trying to recuperate my energy for like five minutes  at which point the nurses were like, OK, somethings wrong here.

Eberts return to his hospital bed in the communal facility brought IV fluids, several extra blankets and a space heater, along with a visit from the attending physician. By 6 p.m. that evening, doctors determined that Eberts had reached a threshold for severe illness, which meant hed receive antibiotics to help his body fight the disease.

By the end of the ordeal  with the help of a league of new Twitter followers  Eberts had raised nearly $25,000 for The Water Project, a nonprofit that constructs reliable water systems in Sub-Saharan Africa. Some of Eberts reward money from the study went to the nonprofit as well.

When I was in the midst of the disease, I was like, Wow, this really sucks, Eberts said. I would like to use my 15 minutes of viral fame to fundraise for this.

For 32-year-old Rebecca Jimenez, an engineering consultant living in Rockville, getting sick for a study wasnt quite as harrowing.

Jimenez had planned to do the March flu study with her partner, but after they arrived, researchers determined he had a cold, which rendered him ineligible to participate. So she endured the hospital stay sans roommate, with the near-exclusive company of a collection of doctors and nurses, a yoga mat and Hulu shows.

She was heartened, though, by the studys importance. As a young Hispanic woman, Jimenez was hopeful that her participation would increase the diversity of study participants.

Jimenez was also able to work remotely from Hotel Influenza, taking meetings in between the occasional blood draw and nasal lavage. Just as she was preparing to close her laptop that Friday, though, it became apparent: She was sick. Over the weekend, she felt achy, feverish and just plain exhausted. But she didnt regret her decision.

Its probably the safest way Ive ever had the flu, she said.

But she had to test negative for the flu before she could leave the ward. By the time she was finally cleared to leave the facility that Thursday, she was eager for some fresh air. That, and a tasty meal.

Im pretty sure I went to Five Guys, she said.
By Ben Christopher

Calmatters

On Thursday morning, Democratic lawmakers gathered at the western steps of the state Capitol to commemorate victims of gun violence and orate on the need for tougher gun laws -- both in California and nationally.

Whatever fissures erupted into public view earlier this week in an Assembly leadership fight, almost all California Democrats seem to be on the same page on guns. Gov. Gavin Newsom tweeted about it and blasted out a stats-packed press release promoting California as a national model. The state Senate passed a resolution naming today, the first Friday of the month, "Gun Violence Awareness Day."

Both the resolution and the concept are the brainchild of Everytown for Gun Safety, the national nonprofit funded by former New York Mayor and billionaire Michael Bloomberg that advocates for tighter gun laws.

As legislators spoke, two consistent themes emerged: California's toughest-in-the-nation gun rules are supported by most Californians (generally true) and more national restrictions are needed.

Sen. Nancy Skinner of Berkeley: "We are subject to the tyranny of a minority of Americans and the tyranny of an industry driven by profit and no regard for human life -- none."

Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel of Van Nuys: "We are safer here in the state of California because of the work that we have done...but we need action from Washington, D.C."

Message received? We'll see. In response to the Uvalde school massacre (which has already been partially pushed from the headlines by yet another mass shooting, this one in Tulsa) a bipartisan caucus of U.S. senators is searching for "common ground" on gun policy.

An early candidate for a policy that could clear the 60-vote threshold needed to overcome a filibuster in the Senate: Incentives for states to adopt "red flag" laws, which could allow family members, law enforcement or potentially other concerned outsiders to petition a court to have someone's firearms confiscated if they seem to pose a threat to themselves or others.

California is home to the country's first red flag law. It's been on the books since 2016. Does it reduce gun violence? It's impossible to know for sure, but the state's most prominent gun violence researcher seems to think so.

On Thursday night, President Joe Biden gave a speech urging Congress to adopt a swath of new gun restrictions.

Biden: "Ban assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. And if we can't ban assault weapons, then we should raise the age to purchase them from 18 to 21, strengthen background checks, enact safe storage laws and red flag laws, repeal the immunity that protects gun manufacturers from liability...these are rational commonsense measures."

What they are -- most of them anyway -- are California measures. And while the legal liability proposal deals with federal law, California lawmakers are considering legislation this year to chip away at that legal shield.

In a press release sent out after Biden's speech, the governor was happy to make that point.

Newsom: "Now it's time for Congress to put the lives of our people first and pass California-tested, California-proven gun safety laws."

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After multiple postponements, 27-year-old Khayelitsha woman finally withdrew the case

Asive Takayi says she was raped in Queenstown in 2015, by someone she knew.

She was in and out of the regional court for six years, while the case was postponed each time.

In 2021 she gave up and withdrew her complaint.

Her story is far from unique, says Rape Crisis.

The National Prosecuting Authority says those who are not satisfied with the process of justice should lay a formal complaint.

After more than five years of fighting to have her rapist brought to justice, a Khayelitsha woman finally gave up the case. And her story is far from unique, says Rape Crisis.

Asive Takayi says she was raped in 2015 by a person she knew in Queenstown. She reported the rape the same day and two policemen accompanied her to hospital to be examined. "It was traumatising because the two male officials had to be present when a male doctor examined me and took DNA samples," she said.

She says her case was assigned to an investigating officer who did not communicate with her, did not inform her of court dates, and blocked her calls.

She went to the Queenstown police station in 2016 to speak to the detective and find out why her case had not been to court. She says she was told that her case had been struck off the roll.

After she alerted the National Prosecuting Authority, she says, she received a call from Queenstown police station from someone who introduced himself as the new investigating officer. He told her that her DNA samples had been in the station since 2015 and had only just been taken to the laboratory.

The case first went to court in 2017. In the same year Takayi moved to Cape Town in the hope of starting a new life. She had to travel to and from the Queenstown regional court over the next couple of years while the case was postponed again and again. She does not remember the exact dates. The court paid for the 11-hour journey.

In July 2019, she remembers, the case was back in court but the accused did not appear and was reported to be sick. The matter was postponed.

On 30 September 2019 she was back in court. Again the trial was postponed because the accused had changed lawyers and the new lawyer needed time to prepare, says Takayi. The presiding officer suggested the court reconvene the following day or week, but the lawyer said he had other commitments for the whole month.

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On 28 April 2021 the case was again postponed. Once again the accused did not turn up and was reported to be sick.

Takayi finally decided to close the case.

"I was emotionally exhausted and could not take one more day of going to court just to find out the case will be postponed."

"I had already gone to a mental institution because of depression, due to being raped. I couldn't let this experience push me to that dark place again. I had to choose healing," she said.

Queenstown police spokesperson Namhla Mdleni confirmed that Takayi had submitted a withdrawal statement on 3 May 2021. "She was informed that DNA results were ready for the case to continue. The complainant showed no interest and the case was withdrawn."

Luxolo Tyali, spokesperson for the NPA in the Eastern Cape, acknowledged that cases sometimes suffer "unreasonable delays", as a result of witnesses not being available, delays in decisions and outstanding evidence like DNA reports. He said anyone who felt their case had been badly handled should submit a formal complaint.

Jeanne Bodenstein, advocacy coordinator at Rape Crisis said it is not uncommon for rape survivors to withdraw cases due to police being rude, unhappiness with the work of the investigating officer or inability to reach the investigating officer. Another reason is the insensitive and poor treatment by staff at medical facilities during the rape examinations, she said.

According to Bodenstein, Rape Crisis assisted over 14,000 clients in 2021.
By Jana Kadah

San Jose Spotlight

State Assemblymember Alex Lee is the latest victim of negative campaign monkey business.

Over the last few weeks, the Housing Providers for Responsible Solutions political action committee (PAC) has spent nearly $1 million on mailers, ads and texts opposing Lee--about a third of what the PAC has spent this year. The PAC is largely funded by the California Association of Realtors and the California Apartment Association.

Negative mailers and texts are certainly not new in Silicon Valley, but those sent out by the PAC have made waves on social media.

In a recent mailer, the PAC describes Lee as "playing with monkeys and Minecraft at work -- not solving problems," referring to a popular video game Lee streamed himself playing. It also calls Lee a politician instead of a Democrat--which was used to describe his opponents Kansen Chu, who served in the Assembly before, and Fremont City Councilmember Teresa Keng. Lee is a lifelong Democrat.

"It's so weird," Lee told San Jose Spotlight. "They just want to cause chaos, spreading misinformation, and frankly, these are some of the dirtiest tactics that people turn off from democracy."

The mailer also points out that Lee lives at home with mother, which according to the state lawmaker is common for young adults in his district because of economic necessity. He said it's party why he is "so vigorously pro-housing."

Lee said the PAC has gone above and beyond to mislead voters and discredit the work he has done during his first term in the state Legislature because they do not like his support of affordable housing and other progressive stances. Lee is chair of the Select Committee on Social Housing, and just last week his bill on social housing passed out of the Assembly floor and is heading to the Senate.

"This is an unusually high amount of attention they're putting on me because they are trying to uphold the status quo," Lee said. "They can't buy me so they are trying to break me."

A Santa Clara County Association of Realtors representative said the group does not make endorsements at the state level, but endorsed more moderate business-leaning candidates in the county like mayoral candidate and San Jose Councilmember Matt Mahan, county supervisor candidate Johnny Khamis and San Jose District 3 City Council candidates Joanna Rauh and Irene Smith.

"Candidates that support (the association's) mission of promoting and protecting private property rights have received endorsements," President Lisa Faria told San Jose Spotlight. "As for statewide races, decisions to support candidates are made at the state level by the California Association of Realtors."

The California Association of Realtors and the California Apartment Association did not respond to requests for comment.

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Copyright  2022 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited.
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A Bay Area government employee commissioned to write an exorbitantly expensive Santa Clara County government history book is under fire after the Mercury News found a significant portion of the manuscript was plagiarized from multiple sources, including its own publication, Wikipedia, SFGATE, the History Channel, the Washington Post and a number of other local and national news outlets.

Jean McCorquodale, the president of McCorquodale Corporation and the wife of former county supervisor and state Sen. Dan McCorquodale, has been working for the county since 1995. Her duties included completing grant applications and related tasks before she became the countys sole grant writer from 2009 to 2014, the Mercury News reported. Her contract was then renewed and she was tasked with the history book project in 2018, an undertaking that was delayed by two years. The county has reportedly paid her at least $2.45 million since 2009.
WFO SHREVEPORT Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Sunday, June 5, 2022

_____

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING

The National Weather Service in Shreveport has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...

Southwestern Little River County in southwestern Arkansas...

Southeastern McCurtain County in southeastern Oklahoma...

Central Bowie County in northeastern Texas...

* Until 415 PM CDT.

* At 333 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located 10 miles north of

De Kalb, or 12 miles west of Foreman, moving southeast at 40 mph.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and quarter size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage

to roofs, siding, and trees.

* Locations impacted include...

New Boston, Foreman, Hooks, De Kalb, Richmond, Leary, Almont,

Beaverdams, Goodlake, Wallace, Tom, Red Bank and Pine Prairie.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
WFO SHREVEPORT Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Sunday, June 5, 2022

_____

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING

The National Weather Service in Shreveport has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...

Southwestern Miller County in southwestern Arkansas...

Northwestern Caddo Parish in northwestern Louisiana...

Eastern Cass County in northeastern Texas...

* Until 545 PM CDT.

* At 438 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located 8 miles west of

Queen City, or 9 miles northwest of Atlanta, moving southeast at 20

mph.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and quarter size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage

to roofs, siding, and trees.

* Locations impacted include...

Atlanta, Queen City, Rodessa, Ida, Bivins, Ravanna, McLeod,

Brightstar, Bloomburg, Douglassville, Kiblah and Red Hill.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
WFO SHREVEPORT Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Sunday, June 5, 2022

_____

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT

Special Weather Statement

National Weather Service Shreveport LA

454 PM CDT Sun Jun 5 2022

...Strong thunderstorms will impact portions of southern Hempstead,

Miller, Lafayette, southern Nevada and northwestern Columbia

Counties, north central Caddo and northwestern Bossier Parishes,

northeastern Cass and southeastern Bowie Counties through 600 PM

CDT...

At 454 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking strong thunderstorms along

a line extending from near Fulton to near Queen City. Movement was

southeast at 30 mph.

HAZARD...Wind gusts of 50 to 55 mph and nickel size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around

unsecured objects. Minor damage to outdoor objects is

possible.

Locations impacted include...

Texarkana, Hope, Atlanta, Stamps, Lewisville, Queen City, Fouke,

Bradley, Buckner, Rosston, Garland, Ida, Fulton, Willisville, Bodcaw,

Mandeville, Ravanna, Genoa, Brightstar and Canfield.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.

These storms may intensify, so be certain to monitor local radio

stations and available television stations for additional information

and possible warnings from the National Weather Service.

LAT...LON 3354 9314 3285 9378 3323 9428 3358 9391

3361 9386 3360 9383 3362 9386 3372 9376

TIME...MOT...LOC 2154Z 297DEG 25KT 3363 9375 3319 9410

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.88 IN

MAX WIND GUST...55 MPH

...Strong thunderstorms will impact portions of northwestern Caddo

Parish, Marion, Cass, Harrison, north central Rusk, Upshur,

southeastern Morris, southeastern Camp and Gregg Counties through 600

PM CDT...

At 455 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking strong thunderstorms along

a line extending from near Atlanta to 6 miles northeast of Big Sandy.

Movement was southeast at 20 mph.

Longview, Marshall, Kilgore, White Oak, Gladewater, Atlanta, Gilmer,

Vivian, Hallsville, Jefferson, Linden, Hughes Springs, Lone Star,

Queen City, Ore City, Oil City, Clarksville City, East Mountain,

Hosston and Rodessa.

LAT...LON 3322 9428 3305 9404 3302 9404 3302 9401

3287 9380 3285 9381 3285 9380 3286 9379

3286 9378 3282 9379 3224 9478 3274 9510

TIME...MOT...LOC 2155Z 312DEG 18KT 3314 9422 3266 9504

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
WFO SPOKANE Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Sunday, June 5, 2022

_____

FLASH FLOOD WARNING

The National Weather Service in Spokane has issued a

* Flash Flood Warning for...

South Central Pend Oreille County in northeastern Washington...

North Central Spokane County in northeastern Washington...

* Until 215 PM PDT.

* At 1217 PM PDT, Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing

heavy rain across the warned area. Between 1.5 and 2 inches of

rain have fallen. The expected rainfall rate is 1 to 1.5 inches in

1 hour. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly.

HAZARD...Flash flooding caused by thunderstorms.

SOURCE...Radar.

IMPACT...Flash flooding of small creeks and streams, urban

areas, highways, streets and underpasses as well as

other poor drainage and low-lying areas.

* Some locations that will experience flash flooding include...

Deer Park, Elk and Milan.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood

deaths occur in vehicles.

Be aware of your surroundings and do not drive on flooded roads.

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
WFO SPOKANE Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Sunday, June 5, 2022

_____

FLASH FLOOD WARNING

The National Weather Service in Spokane has issued a

* Flash Flood Warning for...

The Lick Creek Burn Scar in...

Northwestern Asotin County in southeastern Washington...

Southeastern Garfield County in southeastern Washington...

* Until 245 PM PDT.

* At 1245 PM PDT, Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing

heavy rain over the northern end of the Lick Creek Burn Scar.

Between 0.5 and 0.8 inches of rain have fallen. Flash flooding is

ongoing or expected to begin shortly.

HAZARD...Flash flooding caused by thunderstorms in and around

the Lick Creek Burn Scar.

SOURCE...Radar.

IMPACT...Flooding of areas in and around the Lick Creek Burn

Scar.

* Some locations that will experience flash flooding include...

mainly rural areas of Northwestern Asotin and Southeastern

Garfield Counties

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

The affected areas are in and below the Lick Creek burn scar west of

Asotin, including parts of Asotin Creek Road, Charley Creek Road,

Lickfork Road, and Smoothing Iron Road. Some drainage basins

impacted include steep drainages for Asotin Creek, Charley Creek and

Lick Creek. High intensity rainfall on the burned area may cause

flash flooding, mud slides and rock slides. Hikers, residents, and

motorists in and below the Lick Creek burned area should take

immediate precautions to protect life and property.

Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood

deaths occur in vehicles.

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
WFO SPOKANE Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Sunday, June 5, 2022

_____

FLASH FLOOD WARNING

The National Weather Service in Spokane has issued a

* Flash Flood Warning for...

The Red Apple Burn Scar in...

South Central Chelan County in north central Washington...

Southwestern Douglas County in north central Washington...

* Until 415 PM PDT.

* At 118 PM PDT, Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing

heavy rain over the Red Apple Burn Scar. Between 0.1 and 0.3

inches of rain have fallen. The expected rainfall rate is 0.25 to

0.75 inches in 1 hour. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to

begin shortly.

Excessive rainfall over the burn scar will result in debris flow

moving through the Warner Canyon and Warm Spring Canyon drainages.

The debris flow can consist of rock, mud, vegetation and other loose

materials.

HAZARD...Life threatening flash flooding. Thunderstorms

producing flash flooding in and around the Red Apple

Burn Scar.

SOURCE...Radar.

IMPACT...Life threatening flash flooding of areas in and around

the Red Apple Burn Scar.

* Some locations that will experience flash flooding include...

Cashmere, Sunnyslope, West Wenatchee, East Wenatchee Bench and

Monitor.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

The affected areas are in and below the Red Apple burn scar north of

Monitor and Wenatchee, including the steep slopes of Warner Canyon

and Warm Springs Canyon, Easy Street and Red Apple Road. High

intensity rainfall on the burned area may cause flash flooding, mud

slides and rock slides. Hikers, residents, and motorists in and

below the Red Apple burned area should take immediate precautions to

protect life and property.

This is a life threatening situation. Heavy rainfall will cause

extensive and severe flash flooding of creeks...streams...and

ditches in the Red Apple burn scar. Severe debris flows can also be

anticipated across roads. Roads and driveways may be washed away in

places. If you encounter flood waters...climb to safety.

Move to higher ground now. Act quickly to protect your life.

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
WFO SPOKANE Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Sunday, June 5, 2022

_____

FLASH FLOOD WARNING

The National Weather Service in Spokane has issued a

* Flash Flood Warning for...

The Snake River Complex Burn Scar in...

West Central Nez Perce County in north central Idaho...

Southeastern Asotin County in southeastern Washington...

* Until 430 PM PDT.

* At 133 PM PDT, Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing

heavy rain over the Snake River Complex Burn Scar. Between 0.3 and

0.7 inches of rain have fallen. Flash flooding is ongoing or

expected to begin shortly.

HAZARD...Flash flooding caused by thunderstorms in and around

the Snake River Complex Burn Scar.

SOURCE...Radar.

IMPACT...Flooding of areas in and around the Snake River

Complex Burn Scar.

* Some locations that will experience flash flooding include...

mainly rural areas of West Central Nez Perce and Southeastern

Asotin Counties

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

The affected areas are in and below the Snake River Complex burn

scar southwest of Winchester, including parts of Eagle Creek Road,

Zaza Road, Corral Creek Road, and Madden Creek Road. Some drainage

basins impacted include steep drainages on Eagle Creek, China Creek,

Corral Creek, Madden Creek, and Captain John Creek. High intensity

rainfall on the burned area may cause flash flooding, mud slides and

rock slides. Hikers, residents, and motorists in and below the Snake

River Complex burned area should take immediate precautions to

protect life and property.

This is a life threatening situation. Heavy rainfall will cause

extensive and severe flash flooding of creeks...streams...and

ditches in the Snake River burn scar. Severe debris flows can also

be anticipated across roads. Roads and driveways may be washed away

in places. If you encounter flood waters...climb to safety.

Move to higher ground now. Act quickly to protect your life.

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...

West central Douglas County in north central Washington...

* Until 215 PM PDT.

* At 134 PM PDT, a severe thunderstorm was located over Orondo, or 13

miles northeast of Wenatchee, moving northeast at 10 mph.

HAZARD...Quarter size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Damage to vehicles is expected.

* Locations impacted include...

Orondo, Douglas and Waterville.

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

Torrential rainfall is occurring with this storm, and may lead to

flash flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded roadways.

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
WFO SPOKANE Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Sunday, June 5, 2022

_____

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING

The National Weather Service in Spokane has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...

Northeastern Douglas County in north central Washington...

South central Okanogan County in north central Washington...

* Until 330 PM PDT.

* At 246 PM PDT, a severe thunderstorm was located 8 miles northeast

of Bridgeport, or 22 miles south of Omak, moving northeast at 10

mph.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and quarter size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage

to roofs, siding, and trees.

* This severe thunderstorm will remain over mainly rural areas of

northeastern Douglas and south central Okanogan Counties.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

Torrential rainfall is occurring with this storm, and may lead to

flash flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded roadways.

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
Residents are tired of waiting in the dark for the municipality to fulfil its promises

A 38-year-old man from Area 11 in Kariega has died after being hit on the head with an electrical pole during a protest on Thursday morning for electricity.

Police are investigating the incident.

Protesters set alight two delivery vehicles, a bus and the ward councillor's homes.

Area 11 is among 156 informal settlements in Nelson Mandela Bay to be formalised as part of a council resolution of 30 April 2021.

Residents here have staged a number of protests, demanding services, including lighting.

Nkosinathi Lukas, 38, died when an electrical pole uprooted during a protest for electricity in Area 11 informal settlement in Kariega on Thursday, fell on his head.

Protesters also set alight two delivery vehicles, a bus and the ward councillor's homes.

According to the man's family, he was employed as a rubbish collector in the area and lived with his girlfriend in Area 11. The family did not want to say more.

Residents are demanding that the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality electrify their homes.

Police spokesperson Captain Andre Beetge said that protesters were uprooting concrete poles at 5:30am to use as barricades in the road. "One of the poles fell on the head of Nkosinathi Lukas from Area 11, Gunguluza. He passed away on the scene. An inquest docket was opened and will be investigated by SAPS KwaNobuhle," he said.

Beetge said protesters pelted police and fire department vehicles as well as cars belonging to the public. He said the homes of ward councillor Sabelo Mabhuda were also set alight but the extent of the damage is yet to be determined.

Protesters are demanding that the municipality provide a map of Area 11 which details the electrification of over 500 shacks. Residents here have been demanding services, including lighting since occupying the land in 2017.

Area 11 is among 156 informal settlements in Nelson Mandela Bay where plots are to be marked out and roads built as part of a council resolution of 30 April 2021. The municipality estimates that nearly 43,000 households are included in the project. But City officials in the coalition government are yet to agree on how the budget of R300-million is to be spent.

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On Thursday, community leader Siyabonga Stemele told GroundUp that residents were upset because the ward councillor had made a promise four weeks ago that municipal housing officials would visit to assign plots to households. This never happened. "People have now decided to take to the streets because they live in the darkness," he said.

Mthuthuzeli Ciki, a former ward committee member, explained that people went to Councillor Mabhuda's homes because they wanted to know why he and his family were given keys to a new bungalow apparently before those on the waiting list.

Mabhuda, who is currently at a safe house, said he was shocked by protesters' violence. He said he met with residents last Friday where they demanded that he arrange for the Mayoral Committee member for Electricity and Energy to come to explain to them when the area will be electrified. "I am really shocked by this stance they have taken," he said.

The community remains tense on Thursday and police remain in the area to monitor the situation.
WFO SPOKANE Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Sunday, June 5, 2022

_____

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING

The National Weather Service in Spokane has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...

Southwestern Latah County in the Panhandle of Idaho...

Northwestern Nez Perce County in north central Idaho...

Southeastern Whitman County in eastern Washington...

* Until 430 PM PDT.

* At 341 PM PDT, a severe thunderstorm was located 8 miles northwest

of Clarkston, moving northeast at 20 mph.

HAZARD...Quarter size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Damage to vehicles is expected.

* Locations impacted include...

Pullman, Moscow, Genesee, Colton, Uniontown and Joel.

This includes U.S. Highway 95 in Idaho between mile markers 319 and

326, and between mile markers 329 and 352.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

Torrential rainfall is occurring with this storm, and may lead to

flash flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded roadways.

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
WFO SPOKANE Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Sunday, June 5, 2022

_____

FLASH FLOOD WARNING

The National Weather Service in Spokane has issued a

* Flash Flood Warning for...

The Chuweah Burn Scar in...

Southeastern Okanogan County in north central Washington...

Southwestern Ferry County in northeastern Washington...

* Until 700 PM PDT.

* At 352 PM PDT, Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing

heavy rain over the Chuweah Burn Scar. Between 0.1 and 0.4 inches

of rain have fallen. The expected rainfall rate is 0.5 to 1 inch

in 1 hour. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly.

HAZARD...Life threatening flash flooding. Thunderstorms

producing flash flooding in and around the Chuweah

Burn Scar.

SOURCE...Radar.

IMPACT...Life threatening flash flooding of areas in and around

the Chuweah Burn Scar.

* Some locations that will experience flash flooding include...

Nespelem Community, Elmer City and Nespelem.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

The affected areas are in and below the Chuweah burn scar east of

Nespelem, including Cache Creek Road, Joe Moss Road and Chuweah

Road. Some drainage basins impacted include Nespelem River, Joe

Moses Creek, and Chuweah Creek. High intensity rainfall on the

burned area may cause flash flooding, mud slides and rock slides.

Hikers, residents, and motorists in and below the Chuweah burned

area should take immediate precautions to protect life and property.

This is a life threatening situation. Heavy rainfall will cause

extensive and severe flash flooding of creeks...streams...and

ditches in the Chuweah Burn Scar. Severe debris flows can also be

anticipated across roads. Roads and driveways may be washed away in

places. If you encounter flood waters...climb to safety.

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
Bank profit margins are already benefiting from rising interest rates, analysts say, as returns on most retail term deposits languish well below those offered to bigger investors.

As the outlook for margins improves, bank watchers say lenders are unlikely to raise mortgage rates by more than the Reserve Bank if it raises the cash rate this Tuesday, as expected.

Interest rates on retail term deposits have not risen in line with rates in wholesale markets, analysts say. Credit:Josh Robenstone

A month after the first cash rate rise in 11 years, Macquarie analyst Victor German said lenders were getting a strong tailwind from not lifting advertised retail term deposit interest rates as much as wholesale or negotiated rates.

For example, he said one-year term deposits from major banks were paying about 20 to 65 basis points, compared with wholesale rates of more than 2.5 per cent
A man found running in and out of traffic on the M5 at Moorebank has died after being pepper sprayed by police as they were attempting to arrest him.

Police were called to the scene in Sydneys south-west at about 3.35 am on Sunday, responding to reports from motorists that a man was walking in the westbound lane of the motorway.

Assistant Commissioner Stuart Smith said police arrived at the scene at about 3.50am when they found a shirtless 41-year-old man near the Moorebank Avenue off-ramp running in and out of traffic on the eastbound lane.

What [police] saw there was quite confronting, he said.

Police interacted with the male and he was given directions and he was non-responsive to those.
Queenslands Treasurer has vowed the state will keep doing the heavy lifting for Australia in producing gas, saying the surging prices are a problem in southern states not producing enough, as he pre-empted cost of living relief in the state budget.

As state and federal governments battle to address spiking energy prices and mitigate a crushing blow to Australians bracing for an increase in the cost of living, Cameron Dick moved to reassure Queenslanders there would be relief in the state budget, expected to be handed down in two weeks, for the rising costs.

Major manufacturers this week warned thousands of local jobs were at risk unless gas was held back from being exported. The Albanese government also called emergency meetings with Queenslands gas producers and state ministers to address rising energy prices.

Wholesale power and gas prices have been increasing across the east coast as a result of several factors, including outages at coal-fired power stations and spiking commodity prices because of the war in Ukraine. A warning was issued this week for dangerously low reserves in Victoria, South Australia, and Tasmania.
Australia and Indonesia are being urged to simplify visa rules to make it easier to travel between the two countries, as Anthony Albanese leads a prime ministerial delegation to the country.

Ahead of the trip Monash University vice chancellor Margaret Gardner, a member of the delegation, told The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald that both governments should work on making it easier for their citizens to travel between the two nations.

Joko Widodo and Anthony Albanese will meet in Jakarta this week. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

Indonesias Tourism Minister, Sandiaga Uno, says more flights are also needed to meet growing demand from Australian tourists, who are beginning to return to the holiday island of Bali more than two years into the COVID-19 pandemic.

Albanese flew to Jakarta on Sunday to meet Indonesian President Joko Widodo, widely known as Jokowi, for the first time. He was joined by Gardner, senior ministers Penny Wong, Don Farrell and Ed Husic and a business delegation including the chief executives of major Australian companies including Commonwealth Bank, Bluescope and Telstra.
Few would claim that the recent federal election campaign was replete with big ideas. Many, including this masthead, were critical of small-target politics during the campaign, but as the prime minister made clear in the opening remarks of his acceptance speech, Labor did support a big idea about Australias First Nations people.



It is now five years since a large and representative body of Indigenous leaders issued the Uluru Statement from the Heart calling for a Voice to parliament entrenched in the Constitution and a Makarrata Commission to oversee treaty-making and truth-telling.

The Uluru Statement from the Heart.

While treaty and truth-telling are on Labors agenda, it has made the Voice to parliament its highest priority. Anthony Albanese has committed to holding a referendum in his first term. That is no small task. Since 1901, there have been 19 referendums, proposing 44 changes to the Constitution, of which only eight have managed to get the green light.

That poor strike rate has made governments hesitant to back referendums. The vote in 1999 on Australia becoming a republic, which did not pass in any state, has been the only one in more than 30 years.
Albanese will argue he had good reasons for the move. He can point to the fact that circumstances changed after the election when Labor frontbencher Terri Butler (who most recently held environment in opposition) lost her seat to the Greens in the Brisbane electorate of Griffith. He had a vacancy to fill  but there were others who could have filled it. Asked by journalists to explain his thinking on the night he unveiled the reshuffle, Albanese said Plibersek had a long-term interest in the environment, that she had been very happy to take it up, that there were major challenges in it and that she would be outstanding in getting to grips with delivering the Murray Darling Basin plan (a fiendish challenge) and a range of other environmental reforms. Albanese has left himself open to the impression that he is clipping the wings of a one-time potential leadership rival. But the very public rebuke hed administered to her several days earlier  for comparing new opposition leader Peter Dutton to the Harry Potter villain, Voldemort  has coloured the optics. Albanese has left himself open to the impression that he is clipping the wings of a one-time potential leadership rival. In a ministerial line-up thats otherwise been widely praised for its freshness and diversity, its his one controversial move.

For her part, 52-year-old Plibersek says shes looking forward to making her mark in a portfolio she believes has elevated importance after an election result that saw record gains for the Greens and for climate activist teal independents. Only a government that doesnt care about the environment would consider the environment ministry a consolation prize, she said through a spokesman. One of the big messages from the election is that Australians want to see more action on the environment and climate change  I couldnt be more excited to play a part in leading that work for the new Labor government. She says shell be building on a significant Labor legacy which includes creating the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and protecting Antarctica, the Franklin River, the Daintree and Kakadu.

When the prime minister offered me this portfolio, he said the environment and water will be top priorities for our government. Thats a refreshing change after a decade of the Liberal Party not giving a stuff about either, she added. I have had so many different portfolios over the years and every one of them has been exciting and interesting and a challenge  and I relish the opportunity to do that again in a new area. One of the big messages from the election is that Australians want to see more action on the environment and climate change. Tanya Plibersek Just how much of a role Plibersek will have in shaping the governments climate change responses is debatable, given Chris Bowen retains primary carriage of this in his capacity as climate change and energy minister. She and Bowen will be sharing a newly merged department, to be known as the Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water. But there are major challenges on her side of the portfolio given critical threats to native species and habitats. Wrangling a fresh accord among the state, regional and sectoral interests competing for water  which will again become a fiercely contested resource once the weather cycle turns  will also be vital work.

Trying to penetrate the inner labyrinth of factional and personality politics inside Labor is akin to Kremlinology, and probably, to most people, about as interesting. Suffice to say Plibersek is not of Albaneses inner circle, despite their long association in the same sub-faction of the NSW left, and the fact that their electorates adjoin one another in Sydneys densely populated inner west and inner east. Loading During the election campaign, eyebrows were raised when she was not among the Labor frontbenchers invited to travel to Perth for the partys triumphal launch on May 1. Determined to hose down speculation as to why, Plibersek declared that she had known Albanese (who is 7 years her senior) since she was 14 and that their relationship was terrific. He praised her as an outstanding member of my team. The partys headquarters continued to keep her busy with visits to 31 electorates and some 60 media appearances. History between the pair is coloured by the tense dynamics around the partys 2013 and 2019 leadership changes. In 2013, after losing government, Labor held its first-ever leadership contest in which grassroots party members were given a 50 per cent say in the ballot. The two contenders were Albanese and Bill Shorten, who hailed from the partys Victorian right faction.

It was going to be a tight contest but Albanese, popular among members, was confident of a win. Shorten, however, made it known before the ballot that he would seek to have Plibersek as his deputy. Plibersek was campaigning for fellow left-winger Albanese but also made clear she would be happy to serve as deputy under either Albanese or Shorten. This was widely seen in the party as a boost to Shortens campaign. In the subsequent ballot, Albanese won the popular party vote but Shorten narrowly prevailed with more votes in the caucus, including some who defected to his camp from the left. When Shorten lost the 2019 election, Plibersek briefly signalled her interest in succeeding him as leader before abruptly changing her mind, ostensibly on the grounds of putting her familys needs first. She has three children with husband Michael Coutts-Trotter, who heads NSW Premier Dominic Perrottets department. In a statement at the time, she said: I have support, from across the party, to be elected leader  But now is not my time. The reality, insiders say, is she did not have the numbers.

The problem for Tanya is that she does not have the institutional support of the left, says an insider despite the fact that she has considerable public following and is remarkably popular in the party membership. Loading The environmental movement, however, is thrilled to have such a high-profile Labor figure in their corner. The CEO of the Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF), Kelly OShanassy, says Plibersek is someone who can get things done, she is incredibly experienced and well respected. It shows the government is taking the portfolio seriously. High on ACFs priority list will be pressuring the government to deliver Labors promised new national Environment Protection Authority, strengthening national environmental standards and fixing the loophole-ridden commonwealth law on biodiversity and conservation.
SELOKOLELA - "Menstruation is still considered a secret that is hardly discussed," Ogaufi Moisakamo, in Botswana, told UNFPA. "When I got my first period, I was also ashamed of informing my mother. And when I finally told her, she only warned me against playing with boys as it would 'get me pregnant'."

This experience is all too common, UNFPA has found. It is often the subject of whispers and embarrassment, not only in families and schools, but also in the halls of power: Not so long ago, menstruation was regarded as so taboo it went almost entirely unmentioned in the world of diplomacy and development.

Even in the last 30 years, as international development and humanitarian experts began to focus on water, sanitation and hygiene as essential for human rights and dignity - work that necessarily includes indelicate topics like toilets, sewage and waste disposal - menstruation was generally absent from the conversation.

But all that is changing.

The last decade has seen a major shift in how advocates talk about menstruation. They are refusing to treat the issue with timidity or shame. They are highlighting that menstruation is not only an issue of health, hygiene and dignity, but also as a matter of gender equality and human rights. They are unapologetically calling for all menstruating adolescents and adults to be able to access school and employment and to access safe, affordable and acceptable menstrual supplies.

In 2014, on 28 May, the international community marked the first-ever Menstrual Hygiene Day, and the observance has only grown over time. This year, UNFPA is highlighting the progress that has been made, the taboos shattered, awareness raised and the efforts committed to meeting the needs and securing the health, dignity and rights of those who menstruate around the world.

1. Menstruation is increasingly recognized as being a human rights issue.

Recent years have seen the issue of menstruation increasingly addressed at the United Nations. In December 2019, the UN General Assembly expressly recognized the neglect of menstrual hygiene management as an issue in schools, workplaces, health centres and public facilities, with negative effects on gender equality and human rights (including the right to education and the right to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health).

More recently, in July of last year, the first-ever resolution on the issue of "Menstrual Hygiene Management, Human Rights and Gender Equality" was adopted - by consensus - by a United Nations intergovernmental body, the Human Rights Council. This resolution highlights the issues of shame, taboo, stigma, misconceptions, myths and exclusion that often result from insufficient information, health services, menstrual supplies and sanitation infrastructure, and calls for the Human Rights Council to take action.

A panel to take up the issue will be convened in June.

2. Policymakers are increasingly taking action on the domestic level.

At the Upper Primary Government Girls School in Naya Gaon, in Rajasthan, India, girls have to fill and carry buckets of water to use the toilet because there is no running water. Inadequate sanitation facilities can affect girls' school attendance. Image from 2018.  UNFPA India

Ten years ago, there was relatively little public awareness about the public health, economic, social and human rights consequences of menstruation stigma. But since 2014, the term "period poverty" - the increased economic vulnerability that can stem from the cost of menstrual supplies, pain management and other menstruation-related issues - has gained traction in the public consciousness.

Today, policymakers are unabashedly addressing these issues in ministries, parliaments and courtrooms. India, Kenya and South Africa, for example, have adopted policies and strategies to ensure that adolescents learn about menstruation and menstrual hygiene, to de-stigmatize the issue and to support access to quality menstrual supplies. Australia, Canada, Germany, India, Ireland, Kenya and others have reduced or eliminated taxation of menstrual products. And some countries are even instituting paid menstrual leave for those experiencing painful or disabling periods.

3. Quality standards for menstrual products are being adopted around the world.

The taboo and silence surrounding menstruation contributes to poor knowledge about the role of poor quality menstrual supplies and practices and vulnerability to urogenital infections. But the issue is not only the lack of quality research, it is also inconsistency in product standards.

In recent years, governments, organizations and supplies experts have begun to press for improved quality standards. For example, groups like the Reproductive Health Supplies Coalition and others have developed quality specifications for disposable menstrual pads, reusable menstrual pads, menstrual cups and tampons.

4. There is growing awareness that the needs of menstruating people will not be fully met by products or supplies. It is just as critical to address harmful social norms, eradicate stigmas and provide comprehensive sexuality education.

Products are simply not enough, advocates and researchers have found. In some settings, for example, providing free menstrual supplies does not improve access because community members are too uncomfortable to even talk about menstruation in the first place.

When Kenathata Moisakamo - the little sister of Ogaufi in Botswana - started menstruating, she kept it a secret. Fearful of being ridiculed, she skipped school. Fortunately Ogaufi knew from her own experience what was going on, and she sat her little sister down to explain that menstruation is nothing to be ashamed of.

Kenathata Moisakamo learned about menstruation from her sister and from a UNFPA-supported comprehensive sexuality education programme.  UNFPA Botswana

Then Kenathata began to receive comprehensive sexuality education through a UNFPA youth programme. The lessons explained how her body works, and also taught her to speak about menstruation and other reproductive health issues without fear or embarrassment.

Dispelling misinformation and eliminating shame are critical, not only to improving menstrual health but also to empowering young people to advocate for themselves in all areas of sexual and reproductive health and rights. "Now that I understand... contraceptives, menstruation and teenage pregnancy, I proudly share this knowledge with my peers and cousins who are not part of the programme," Kenathata told UNFPA.

UNFPA is working with organizations and partners around the world to improve stigma-free information about sexual and reproductive health, including menstruation, and to empower young people to stand up for their health and rights.

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5. Young people are taking the lead.

Young advocates are driving much of this change. "During youth consultations, I noticed that young people are ready to break the taboo around menstruation," said Laura Bas, the new Youth Ambassador for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, Gender Equality, and Bodily Autonomy in the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

In her work, she speaks with youth leaders from around the world. "Young people are full of creative ideas to normalize talking about menstruation. Young girls from South Sudan told me that they wanted to create buddy systems at high schools, where older girls teach younger girls everything they need to know about menstruation," Ms. Bas said.

Other young people, such as Viwe Goboza, in South Africa, is taking on both the stigmatized issue of menstruation as well as the neglected needs of LGBTQIA+ people, highlighting the menstrual needs of transgender and non-binary individuals.

The African Youth and Adolescent Network (AfriYAN) is launching a number of youth-led efforts to improve information about menstruation, call for better water and sanitation facilities in schools, and integrate menstrual health and hygiene into crisis planning. And they are not stopping there.

"As young people, we still commit to pushing more, so that more young girls can have access [to quality facilities and products] and understand their menstrual health... so that we can have the Africa that we want," Lorence Kabasele, President of AfriYAN, said.
Lagos: Gunmen attacked a Catholic church in south-west Nigeria during mass on Sunday, killing at least 50 people including women and children, according to a hospital doctor and media reports.

Several Nigerian news outlets said gunmen had fired at worshippers and detonated explosives at St Francis Catholic Church in the town of Owo. The identity and motive of the attackers was not immediately clear.

St Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Nigeria, after the attack. Credit:AP

The authorities have yet to give details of the attack. Funmilayo Ibukun Odunlami, police spokesperson for Ondo state, said police would issue a further statement soon.

It is so sad that while the Holy Mass was going on, unknown gunmen attacked St Francis Catholic Church ... leaving many feared dead and many others injured and the church violated, said Catholic Church spokesman in Nigeria, Reverend Augustine Ikwu.
Australians help rescue lions from Ukraine

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Kyiv/London: Britain will supply Ukraine with multiple-launch rocket systems that can strike targets up to 80 kilometres away, in a move that was co-ordinated with the United States in response to Russias invasion.

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said it said on Monday that Britains support for Ukraine would change as Russias tactics evolved, explaining the gift of the M270 multiple-launch systems.

An M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System, which the UK is sending to Ukraine.

These highly capable multiple-launch rocket systems will enable our Ukrainian friends to better protect themselves against the brutal use of long-range artillery, which [Russian President Vladimir] Putins forces have used indiscriminately to flatten cities, Wallace said in a statement.

US President Joe Biden last week said Washington would supply Ukraine with M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, or HIMARS, after he received assurances from Kyiv that it would not be used to hit targets inside Russian territory.
The war has settled into what seems increasingly destined to be a slog. The Ukrainians and Russians both said Saturday that they were inflicting decisive losses against each other in the battle for Sievierodonetsk, the last major city in the Luhansk region of eastern Ukraine still under Ukrainian control. But the fighting was not limited to that town. A senior Ukrainian official said on Saturday that the countrys troops had reached a milestone in grinding down the Russian invasion force in eastern Ukraine. Andriy Yermak, chief of staff to President Volodymyr Zelensky, posted on social networking site Telegram that most of a large Russian military unit had been destroyed in heavy fighting over the past weeks. Almost the entire 35th all-Russian army was destroyed, he wrote.

Yermaks claim was supported by commentary from a Russian military blogger cited in a report by the influential Institute for the Study of War. Incompetent Russian commanders had failed to prepare troops for combat in a forested area near the city of Izyum, the report said. The claim of the routing of the Russian unit could not be independently verified. Ukrainian soldiers interviewed over the past week have described fierce fighting in the forests around Izyum, a strategic city that Russia is using as a base for attacks south toward the cities of Kramatorsk and Sloviansk. Ukrainian forces are also taking heavy losses, 60 to 100 fatalities a day, Zelensky said recently. The British Defence Ministry said on Saturday that Russias recent use of airstrikes and artillery fire has been a factor in its limited success in Ukraines east, a contrast with its largely ineffective air attacks earlier in the war. The Russian reliance on long-range strikes has probably depleted the countrys stock of precision-guided missiles, leading to more use of unguided munitions that can cause substantial civilian casualties, the ministry said. Ukrainian soldiers atop an armoured fighting vehicle in an area near Kramatorsk in the Donbas region of Ukraine on June 4. Credit:Ivor Prickett/The New York Times

Also on Saturday, an air-launched cruise missile hit the Odesa region on Ukraines Black Sea coast, Odesa city officials said on Telegram. The missile struck a mostly agricultural area with warehouses, injuring two people, according to the officials. Loading And Russian and Ukrainian officials traded blame for the burning of the main temple of the All Saints hermitage, a 16th-century monastery in eastern Ukraine that is considered one of the three most sacred sites in Ukraine for Orthodox believers. The increasing terror from the sky came a day after Ukraine, on the 100th day of the war, took stock of its successes in holding back and in key places repelling the invasion by Russia, which had sought to quickly conquer the capital, Kyiv, and topple the government. Zelenskyy insisted, Victory will be ours, and announced that 50 foreign embassies had resumed activities in the capital. But on the 101st day, Ukraine faced anew the harsh realities on the ground and increasingly from overhead.

Russias airstrikes provided cover to their troops engaged in the bitter fighting in the contested city of Sievierodonetsk. And Russian troops continued to target the last remaining bridge into Sievierodonetsk to keep Ukraine from moving reinforcements, food and medicine into a city that has become the main theater of war and the focus of Russias war machine. Despite its early and devastating setbacks, Russia has come to occupy one-fifth of the country. The intensity of the Russian attack and frequency of Russian reinforcements to Sievierodonetsk led to predictions that the city would soon fall. But Serhiy Haidai, governor of Luhansk province, who recently had a dour prognosis for the citys survival, told Ukraines national television that Ukrainian troops had retaken 20 per cent of the territory they had lost, adding that it was not realistic the city would fall in the next two weeks. A Ukrainian demining specialist clearing anti-tank mines in Horenka, north of Kyiv, Ukraine. Credit:Ivor Prickett/The New York Times As Ukrainian forces try to take back territory in the east, its State Emergency Services has removed 127,393 explosive devices, with the efforts focused mostly on urban areas in the Kyiv, Sumy and Zhytomyr regions that were occupied by Russia early in the war, according to a report by the United Nations Development Program.

Russias retreat from those areas has made them more accessible for clear-up operations, the report said, adding that Ukrainians had covered an area of more than 28,714 square kilometres but that it could take years to clear all of the mines in Ukraine. Ukrainian forces have also launched a counteroffensive near the occupied city of Kherson in the countrys south. Loading But a punishing, costly and tragic military stalemate is increasingly foreseen by experts. Ukraine has been outgunned but will soon receive long-range M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, commonly known as HIMARS, from the United States. The exchanges of evermore lethal firepower will likely add to the many millions of people who have already been displaced, a death toll of at least 4,000 civilians and a Ukrainian economy already in tatters with roughly $US100 billion in losses. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said on Friday that Russia would continue what it calls a special military operation in Ukraine until all goals have been attained. But one thing Russia had already achieved was international isolation and a solidifying of the Western alliance against it. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg met on Friday with Prime Minister Sanna Marin of Finland in Washington about the countrys application to the military alliance. He has advised allies to be prepared for the long haul and warned this past week that the conflict had become a war of attrition.
FAIRFIELD  Town residents overwhelmingly spoke out against proposed changes to Fairfields charter at the Charter Revision Commissions final public hearing June 2.

Notably, many of those who decried the changed to the charter were members of the Democratic Town Committee or Democratic members of the Representative Town Meeting.

Changes to the RTM were front-and-center issues on Thursday night, as residents pushed back against changes that would reduce its size from 40 members to 30, and that would mandate minority representation in each of the 10 voting districts.

Liberals and conservatives have much common ground on charter reform, DTC chair Steven Sheinberg said in the hearing. The broad consensus includes an RTM with no minimum minority representation, keeping the RTM at 40, which is one member for 1,000 voters in 10 districts, and an RTM that has access to legal services.

There is no broad support for proposed changes for the RTM and especially not minimum minority representation, said Sheinberg  calling it anti-democratic. He said there is also no support for reducing the number of RTM members, adding it is hard enough for the four members per district to cover them now.

If you stay with the plan proposed by some members of this board to vote for radical change to the RTM and the budget process, then many voters, including Republicans, Democrats, and independents, will vote no in November and all the good changes to the charter will not be implemented, he said.

Changes to the charter

Steve Mednick, the attorney hired to guide the commission and town through the revision process, summarized the changes at the beginning of the meeting. He noted that one of the major changes in the proposed charter was a restructuring of the document.

We consolidated provisions. We simplified provisions. We eliminated redundancies, he said. We created standards in article one of commonly used terms throughout the document.

Mednick said these changes would make the document easier to follow and use. He said a new section in the beginning of the charter covers rules of order and civility, which he said would address issues that other communities around the state and nation are seeing concerning allowing the public and elected officials to safely present their views on any given issues.

One big change, and the one members of the public focused on, was the changes to the RTM. Mednick said the commission was unable to convince stakeholders of the need to restructure the current form of government.

While the commission still believes the RTM is too large and unwieldy, (the document) basically retains the RTM in its current status with the reduction from 56, which is your max, right now you have 40, to 30 members, he said.

Mednick said the commission had previously considered doing away with the Board of Selectmen, in favor of a system where there would just be a first selectman or town manager and then a board of executives like a town council or a smaller RTM. Those plans were later dashed as there was not much will to decrease the size of the RTM to one that a town manager would want to work with.

It would be very difficult to imagine a town manage that was willing to take a job with a government that has a board of directors that is that large, he said.

Complaints about the proposed charter

More than 30 people spoke during public comment, many of whom spoke out against the changes to the RTM. One such speaker was Violet Lumani, a resident and unaffiliated voter, said the town has had its system of representation in place for a long time and it has served residents well. She went on to claim the minority representation proposal in the charter would consolidate power for Republicans, adding no party should have an out-sized amount of control on power.

Here, we have a population that is growing a ton, and the answer is to decrease the number of representatives from 40 to 30 and cap it there? she said. Thats not to mention the participation trophy that is minority representation. I dont know how anybody can argue that that is better for democratic process.

Dru Georgiatis, a Democratic RTM member from District 9, said that, being from a swing district, the current size of the RTM works very well because it allows residents to have a direct representative of government to deal with issues specific to their area.

Georgiatis said that while the commission justified minority representation in the RTM partially by noted many other towns boards and commissions have it, RTM districts speak to the entire town, while RTM members just represent their neighborhoods.

To reduce it to a district level is not necessary, because you have town-wide minority representation within that board of 40, she said. To reduce it to the district level is un-democratic and its smacks of gerrymandering.

Christine Brown, a Democratic RTM member from District 9, said the RTM minority representation proposal ignore the fact that democracy is, by definition, majority rule.

On many local issues, there is broad, bipartisan agreement on the RTM, she said. However, on some issues, there are major policy differences between the parties, and theres nothing wrong with that. It gives voters a clear choice of which partys policies to support.

Response from Mednick and next steps

On Friday, Mednick said he represents a lot of municipalities around the state of various sizes. When the commission was talking about how possible changes to Fairfields structure of government, he said, they took a look at a variety of different municipalities. He said he tried to propose an RTM that is smaller than it is now, but still much larger than it should have been.

We were trying to move to a compromise to see if we could get any notion of support for the idea of going to a smaller legislative body, he said, adding his proposal had 27 members and nine districts.

Most of the legislative bodies in Connecticut are under 20, he said. In terms of representative democracy, in a district system, people know who their representative is, who their council member is, and the you elect them and they represent you.

Mednick, a Democrat, said he saw that Fairfield has a pretty close ratio of Republicans and Democrats winning elections. He said other municipalities, such as Waterbury, went to a multi-member district system and employed minority party representation.

Looking at that, Mednick said he asked the commission if it would make sense to have minority party representation. This way, he said, Democrats might have a represenative in Greenfield Hill and Republicans might have a representative in Stratfield.

This way Mednick said, each party could nominate two people to run for a district, if there were 30 members, and the only person who loses would be the second person from the minority party.

Somebody will lose, but a majority person wont lose, he said.

Mednick said there are a lot of rules in the United States, down to the local level, with minority party representation that have worked to provide some degree of political diversity.

Is the majority constrained? Yes. Minority party representation means a cap on majority representation, he said. Its not perfect democracy, but dont call it anti-democratic. Dont call it autocratic. Dont call it authoritarian. This is not the denying people water in line in Georgia. This is not cutting back on early voting. This is not closing polling places and denying people the right to vote.

The commission will meet next week to discuss public feedback and make any changes they feel necessary, before presenting it to the Board of Selectmen. The BOS will then either vote to accept the recommended changes, deny them, or request tweaks to the work. In the end, the people will vote on the charter in November.

joshua.labella@hearstmediact.com
Members of social movement Abahlali baseMjondolo allege that the state monitors their phones and emails, tracking their movements and putting them in constant danger.

Abahlali baseMjondolo land and housing rights activists say they have become digitally savvy to protect themselves from alleged state surveillance.

For more than 17 years, the movement has endured relentless armed, violent and unlawful state-sanctioned evictions; violent rebuttals of peaceful protests; and push back from local ANC politicians. The leadership of the 100 000-strong organisation has been under siege, and with the rise in communication technology and advances in surveillance, Abahlali's deputy president Mqapheli Bonono says the movement is being closely monitored.

"Some of us are not highly educated, but we have had to learn things such as Signal," says Bonono. The communication platform's end-to-end encryption does not even allow Signal to read people's messages, and it has no data tracking.

"There are people who are bugging our phones, even with our email addresses we wouldn't receive messages and we asked people who are technologically savvy and they would tell us the emails are delayed because they are being intercepted, and that's why we receive them late.

"It's been difficult for us to protect ourselves against digital surveillance because remember we are just people fighting for rights to land, housing and dignity. We haven't been exposed to information on advanced technology, so just imagine a person suddenly having to expose themselves to all this because of the nature of our work. Even if you didn't do a digital course you have to know you can't click on any link, you can't log into any Wi-Fi, and so forth."

Monitoring activists

Human rights organisations and lawmakers have suggested that "safe cities" and cyber laws could pose a new threat to activists. They suggest that there should be reviews and reforms to protect human rights defenders from undue interception of communication, social media monitoring and location tracking through camera surveillance analytics technology.

Bonono says it has become anxiety-inducing to use digital gadgets but the activists have to communicate, organise and mobilise the community. "We are being targeted by capitalists with no regard for human rights. Sometimes we wish we could just stay away from using phones and computers because it's easy for us to be followed with the location on our devices, which we have to have on for certain apps. We have received threatening calls, some saying, 'Who do you think you are?' So it's a double-edged sword. They are useful, but also I don't enjoy using gadgets anymore because of the danger it brings into our lives."

Several members of the organisation have been assassinated while others spent months in jail on bogus charges. Some of them have had to go underground and cut off communication with their families for fear that their phones will be monitored and they will be physically followed around. Now with the rise of digital tools at the hands of corporations and the government, the threat to activists is even larger.

An all-seeing eye

Environmental activist Robby Magkala, who has led actions against mines polluting, expanding, and unfairly buying out people, says feeling exposed and insecure wears down activists.

"The threats diffuse the people's courage and passion," says Makgala, the coal campaign manager at environmental justice organisation Groundwork. "There are people, especially the leadership, who say I don't care, I can die for the truth. But others feel they need to retract. Some have families or dependants they have to look after. They know that anything can happen to them. And there are no security measures in place that make them feel protected.

"Even working through the courts is hard because you need resources, so it ends up wearing activists down. We as groundWork do try to educate people on how to handle the courts and even back environmentalists up with resources but it's a real fight.

"The police are the first to criminalise activists and protect institutions. They quickly break up a protest but they do nothing when activists who oppose mining are threatened. I don't know of a single case that has been properly investigated. Not even when people were killed. Take the case of Sikhosiphi 'Bazooka' Rhadebe, the chairperson of a community-based organisation in Xolobeni, Eastern Cape. He had raised concerns about a titanium mine that Australian company Mineral Commodities Ltd had proposed. More than three years after his murder, no one has been arrested."

Advancing Rights in Southern Africa states in Computer Crime and Cybersecurity that while cyber laws are crucial "there needs to be a balance that allows the unhampered continuation of the use and enjoyment of the [information and communication technology] ... a balance between the interests of law enforcement and the respect, protection, promotion and fulfilment of fundamental rights online must always remain paramount."

Michael Kwet, a fellow at Yale's Information Society Project whose areas of research include the global digital economy and smart city initiatives, has raised the alarm at the amount of information surveillance companies are allowed to obtain.

"The surveillance industry has evolved, from old-school fuzzy cameras where the footage is kept in a cassette, and if something happens investigators come in and take hours reviewing that footage. This would also be a one-off like if you have a camera at Mr Price, it's not part of a wide area network so they didn't have the power to follow people around and if you did want to do it, there were not enough cameras and you would have to look through footage from each camera, so that put limits on how much tracking you could do.

"The law hasn't kept up with the times, in my view there should be bans on how much coverage each network has, how many cameras each place has, camera density and bans on video analytics such as facial recognition. There are other video analytics like are you riding a bicycle? Are you walking? Are you running? What you're wearing, those are things they are developing and they are indexing them. Analytics can give these private companies so much knowledge of what's happening in public places and so it's kind of like an all-seeing eye."

Unregulated bulk surveillance

In the past two decades, there has been an increase in the deployment of video management systems. The South African government has partnered with Vumacam for surveillance. Vumacam has more than 5 000 cameras in Johannesburg and has recently moved to Durban at the request of the eThekwini Municipality.

The surveillance camera company uses artificial intelligence to recognise number plates and "suspicious behaviour". The company claims it follows all privacy laws, such as the Protection of Personal Information Act, but Kwet says the law is not sufficient as it has clauses that put rights to privacy second and "state security" first, allowing for unregulated bulk surveillance.

The South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) highlights the problematic features of the notion that surveillance will solve crime and suggests that socioeconomic issues are the real problem that needs addressing, not targeting and criminalising the impoverished and marginalised.

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City of Johannesburg officials have said in interviews that the use of facial recognition could in the future be used to police "undocumented persons", and video analytics could be used to police protests. Their vision included the use of predictive analytics in which machine-learning algorithms find patterns and make predictions about future events.

"At the same time, officials admitted that they had no studies to show that their video surveillance was curbing crime. In May 2019 the press reported anecdotes and data - provided by the City - alleging that the use of cameras was reducing crime. However, there are presently no independent peer-reviewed studies to confirm this," South African Institute of International Affairs writes in The City Surveillance State.

Kwet says for digital surveillance to be effective there would need to be cameras in every nook and cranny. "Even if some additional crimes were caught or prevented, ultimately, there would be no shortcuts to fixing the situation. To truly curb violent crime, burglaries and robberies, the country must reduce inequality, poverty, and unemployment."

Naledi Sikhakhane, is a journalist researching digital surveillance with support from the Media Policy and Democracy Project, run by the University of Johannesburg's Department of Communication and Media.

Sikhakhane is the 2022 Eugene Saldanha fellow in social justice journalism supported by the Summit Educational Trust.

Correction 3 June 2022: A previous version of this article referred to Abhlali baseMjondolo as a lands rights group, it has been corrected to reflect that it's a social movement.
The state is taking another step toward launching a certification program for doulas, a process that would allow those workers to seek Medicaid reimbursement for their services and reach more people.

Doulas offer physical and emotional support throughout pregnancy, birth and the postpartum period. They also act as advocates for parents during and after pregnancy and help facilitate communication between their clients and hospital staff.

To ensure equity and fair standards in the certification process, Connecticuts Public Health Department will soon appoint an 18-member panel to provide input, including recommendations for training, experience and continued education, as well as standards for recognizing training that is sufficient to meet the certification mandates. Seven of the groups members will be doulas, and the panel also will include a representative from a community-based doula training organization, a representative of an acute care hospital and a person with expertise in health equity, among others.

The committee will also review doula training programs and provide a list of approved programs in Connecticut that meet certification requirements. Another bill must be passed for the health department to begin regulating doulas. That could happen as early as the states next legislative session.

Health care advocates say expanding access to doulas is important, especially for parents of color, who have higher infant mortality rates than their white counterparts.

Babies born to Black parents in Connecticut are more than four times as likely to die before their first birthday than babies born to white parents, according to a 2020 study by the Connecticut Health Foundation. There are also substantial gaps in the rate of low birthweight babies  those born weighing less than 5 1/2 pounds. Babies born to Black parents are nearly twice as likely to be born at a low birth weight as babies born to white parents, the study found.

Among babies born to Hispanic parents, the infant mortality rate was 3.7 per 1,000 births, while for white parents, it was 2.9 per 1,000 births.

At the national level, Black parents are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related conditions than white parents, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

We know that outcomes are better when women of color have an advocate by their side, which is often a doula, during the maternal process, said Tiffany Donelson, president and CEO of the Connecticut Health Foundation. Its so important for women to have someone they can trust and someone who can be there to help them navigate through the process, to be an advocate in the room for them.

Four states covered doula services as of July 2021  Oregon, New Jersey, Indiana and Minnesota, a Kaiser Family Foundation study found  and at least 11 more were considering adding coverage for doula benefits, including four that reported planning to start by the end of this year.

Most doula services are currently covered by private pay.

This is a really important step for the state in building access, not just for the doula community, but also for more people who are looking for doula services, said Maura Jo Lynch, an independent doula in Connecticut who has worked in the field for 16 years. [Certification] opens up access not only to the families to receive services, but also for doulas to attempt to make a living wage while still serving communities who are not communities of means.

A doula is a bit of a luxury item, which it should not be, added Ashley Minihan, who has worked as a doula in Connecticut for seven years. Everybody should be able to access that support.

Designed for the success of the applicants

As the state edges closer toward certification, doulas are calling for reasonable hours of training and fair costs in obtaining the designation.

And for experienced doulas, hours of work in the field should count in the process, several said.

We have to consider the idea of How do you get there? If you have been a doula and working for so many years  it needs to be a system that can be flexible, Lynch said. We all come to this work from different places. Theres not one way to get here.

Certification needs to be designed for the success of the applicants, she said. That means it needs to be financially accessible, it means that the hours need to be reasonable, and it means that the core competencies need to be ones that are commonly held across the doula community.

Cynthia Hayes, a doula for 18 years and director of operations for Earths Natural Touch, a training organization and doula collective, said no single training program should become the standard for certification.

We dont want certain organizations to be lifted up as the central organization that you have to go through in order to become certified, she said. We really want to be able to come together and decide the core competencies that would distinguish someone who is eligible for certification, rather than just where you train.

We also want to make sure that the certification will encompass those who want to practice as a doula and become certified and work with communities that are at a disadvantage, that are really suffering from disparities, Hayes said. We want those doulas to be culturally competent. We want them to have specific training.

Minihan hopes all parties will keep the cost of obtaining certification in mind when coming up with benchmarks.

It is expensive to take these certification programs, she said. I dont think the process necessarily has to say everybody has to take this class, this class, and this class, but you have to have certain skills and certain skill sets, which you can develop in lots of different ways.

Discussing compensation will also be part of the process, Hayes said.

I know there have been a lot of other Black women who are professionals, even outside of this field, who want to practice as doulas, but they dont know if they can afford to do that because a lot of Black doulas arent being paid appropriately, she said. So we want to make sure that this will also bring appropriate compensation to the doulas.

Chris Boyle, a spokesman for the states public health department, said the advisory panel will help mitigate unintended consequences of certification, such as shutting people out.

The key is to establish qualifications that dont unnecessarily exclude certification for people currently working as doulas now or establish unnecessary burdens for people looking to work as doulas in Connecticut, he said. There are no national standards to rely upon, and this process will help minimize unintended consequences that can occur when occupational regulation is established.

The Rev. Robyn Anderson, a co-founder of the Ministerial Health Fellowship, a health care advocacy network based in the states Black churches, said she hopes the certification program will bring more recognition and appreciation to the work doulas are doing every day.

I think we have to really work on the medical field in terms of seeing the value of doulas. Their value does not take away from the expertise of doctors [or] of nurses, she said.

Its been proven that when women of color have doulas  having that kind of emotional support of people who look like them, who are part of the community  they tend to have healthier babies and higher birth rates. And so the certification process is so important for doulas to get the credit for the work theyre doing.
FORT SUMNER, N.M. (AP)  They named the area near this place Bosque Redondo, after a grove of cottonwoods near the river.

The Navajo imprisoned there called it Hweeldi. Some say that translates to place of suffering.

It might as well have been called hell.

It was near here, in Billy the Kid country, that the U.S. government attempted to strip members of the Navajo Nation and Mescalero Apache tribe of their language, culture and spiritual beliefs in the 1860s.

The government had already removed them from their native lands in New Mexico and Arizona, forcing them to take the Long Walk, as it became known  a forlorn journey on foot of several hundred miles in which disease and death became daily companions. And it wasnt just one journey; there were a number of long walks that took place over the years from different sites, including Fort Defiance in Arizona and Fort Wingate near Gallup.

Once the people arrived here, they found a sandy, desolate desert landscape unfit for farming and bereft of fresh water. They became prisoners, then survivors, struggling first to just live and then to get back home.

In the end, they succeeded, said Morgen Young, a historian who helped leaders of the Bosque Redondo Memorial/Fort Sumner Historic Site create the exhibition Bosque Redondo: A Place of Suffering...A Place of Survival.

Ultimately, Apaches fled the fortress-reservation one winter night in 1865, and Navajos negotiated a release and treaty in 1868 that helped them grow into an influential nation, she said.

This is a place of resiliency, Young told the Santa Fe New Mexican. People were forced here, they survived, they returned home.

And that attitude is reflected in the exhibition, which drew more than 500 people on May 28, the official opening day. The exhibition, which draws on historical documents and oral accounts, takes the visitor on a journey back to the 1860s through today as it tells the story of people who ultimately found their way home and reclaimed their native ways.

Its not an easy story to tell  or to take in. Photographs, panels of text and audio presentations of the oral memories of those who survived the ordeal paint a portrait of a government determined to wipe out an Indigenous population it saw as a threat.

There are stories of soldiers shooting pregnant women who could not keep up on the walk; of elders and babies drowning in river crossings; of 12- and 13-year-old girls, fighting off starvation, selling their bodies to soldiers for a piece of cornmeal.

Its an exhibition that can easily prompt tears, said Santa Fean Diana Clanin, who said it was a difficult decision to visit the exhibition. As a docent for the New Mexico History Museum, she knows the backstory of the site.

I didnt know if I could be able to handle it, she said, adding the exhibition showcases the reality of mans inhumanity to man.

But, she added: Its worth every mile (I drove).

Wendy Raper, a Navajo woman from Clovis, said she also knows all too well the history of the Long Walk and the prison camp at Fort Sumner.

This is where I come from, she said. This is what made me who I am.

The 6,500-square-foot exhibition was decades in the making and started in large part because of a handwritten letter left at the site by some visiting Dine youth in June 1990. At that time, the historic site focused on providing information about the fort and the famous outlaw who was shot and killed in these parts  Billy the Kid.

The letter  on display in the museum  said the youth found the site discriminating and not telling the true story behind what really happened to our ancestors in 1864-1868. It went on to demand museum officials show and tell the true history of the Navajos and the United States military.

Change did not happen overnight, or even over the course of another 15 years. The Bosque Redondo Memorial, as it is now known, opened in 2005 but was just a facility with a few storyboards of information. But talks slowly began around the idea of developing a permanent exhibition  one that would include the input of Navajo and Mescalero Apache members.

Aaron Roth, historic sites manager for the memorial, said those behind the creation of the exhibition sat down for the first time with tribal community members in August 2016 to determine how best to present a difficult story that needed to be told.

Five years later, in the autumn of 2021, the memorials leaders mounted what Roth called a soft opening of the current exhibition.

Among other features, the exhibition includes period and contemporary cultural artifacts, a touch-screen display of the 1868 treaty between the Navajo and the U.S. government that you can read or hear and a response room where visitors can record their reactions to the exhibition.

Many of those written responses, Roth and others involved with the memorial said, reflect personal stories, including from the survivors or children of survivors of the Holocaust. Several people interviewed at the site Saturday said it immediately conjured up images of Nazi Germanys persecution and genocide of Jews.

In that sense, you might say the Bosque Redondo memorial is the closest thing to a Holocaust museum that Native Americans have.

But Roth, like others interviewed for this story, said he does not believe the majority of general public knows the story behind the site or the Long Walk.

For the longest time, even in (Fort Sumner) itself, the history wasnt even taught in schools, he said. People who grew up here in the 60s and 70s said to me, This happened in our own backyard, and we didnt even know it happened. 

Manuelito Wheeler, director of the Navajo Nation Museum in Window Rock, Arizona, and one of the Native American representatives who helped shape the exhibition, echoed that thought.

It seems the majority of Americans have no idea that this even happened, he said. When theres that unawareness, it leads to an uncaring attitude. Once someone understands what happened, their logic and emotions will help them understand that this was wrong.

He said that so many people see the story of the Long Walk and Bosque Redondo imprisonment as one of resiliency speaks to the fact weve come a long way at the sacrifice of some of our culture, the sacrifice of human lives.

For 17-year-old Veronica Beck-Ruiz, a member of the Chiricahua Apache nation, the exhibition touches deep, raw personal emotions. Her great-great grandmother endured the Long Walk and Bosque Redondo.

Beck-Ruiz  who left a number of personal messages on Post-it notes and on the many whiteboards in the exhibition expressing how it made her feel  summed up her sentiments in one succinct sentence as she prepared to leave the memorial.

It shouldnt have happened, but it did, she said. And it made our people stronger.
DURHAM, N.C. (AP)  At least three people were seriously injured when gunfire erupted overnight in the parking lot of a North Carolina strip club, authorities said.

According to witnesses, a large group of people were involved in a disturbance in the parking lot of the Durham establishment when the shots were fired around 3:30 a.m. Sunday, the Durham County Sheriff's Office said in a news release.
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STAMFORD  For more than 30 years, Howard Ehring and Barry Butler have defended the people accused of the some of the most heinous crimes along Fairfield Countys Gold Coast.

Dedicated to the belief that everyone deserves a vigorous and zealous defense, both attorneys have defended men and women accused of murder, shootings, arson, large thefts and sexual assaults.

Now the men, who both are in their 60s, have called it a day. After a combined 71 years of representing those who cannot afford private attorneys, the two longtime Stamford public defenders have retired from their positions at state Superior Court in Stamford.

Barry and Howard have dedicated their professional careers to zealously advocating for clients facing the most significant charges and dire consequences. They have rightfully earned their status as institutions within our agency and among the criminal defense bar, said Jared Millbrandt, who is replacing Butler as lead public defender in Stamford.

Though both their journeys ended in the Stamford Public Defenders office, Butler, 64, and Ehring, 68, took vastly different paths to get there.

Butler began his career as an insurance defense lawyer, but after a short time in that field, he said he decided he wanted to start fighting for the little guy, as opposed to the big insurance companies.

After a stint as a special public defender, he was hired as a full-time public defender at state Superior Court in Bridgeport in 1987. From there, he climbed the ranks to defending people whose cases were assigned to the courts Part A docket, where the districts most serious cases are heard. In 1994, he moved to the Connecticut State Public Defenders Capital Defense Unit, which exclusively dealt with death penalty cases.

In his time with the Capital Unit, Butler represented 28 defendants facing the death penalty. Most notably, Butler defended serial killer Michael Ross, the so-called Roadside Strangler, against accusations that he raped and murdered seven young eastern Connecticut women.

Though Ross was ultimately convicted, Butler remained a faithful advocate to Ross, fighting his death penalty for 17 years until Ross eventually waived his right to appeal the execution and died by lethal injection.

On the day of Rosss execution, the last one in Connecticut history, Butler had to make a tough choice: either attend the execution, in case his client changed his mind at the last minute and decided to renew his appeal of the death penalty, or be there for picture-taking for his only daughters senior prom.

He chose to be at the execution.

When Ross found out what I was missing, he made a big scene about making sure I was out of there in time to see my daughter in her dress, Butler said.

Butler took on the role as the head public defender in 2008, where he stayed until his retirement in mid-May.

Some of my cases have been hopeless cases, and this is often a thankless job, but I wouldnt trade it for anything, Butler said. Its been an honor and a privilege to do this job for a living.

Michelle Manning, supervisory assistant states attorney at state Superior Court in Stamford, called Butler one of the most respected defense attorneys in the state, a resource to defense attorneys and prosecutors alike.

He has handled a significant number of cases in our office and is always a worthy adversary as well as a conscientious teacher. We will miss arguing and agreeing with him, Manning said.

As for Ehring, before becoming a lawyer, he worked for seven years as a teacher in New York where he helped high school dropouts and other at-risk youths obtain their GEDs. As he pursued his doctorate in education, Ehring started taking some law classes at the University of Buffalo, he said.

It was during this stage of his career where Ehring said he honed his negotiating skills, as he attended local court hearings to try and convince court officials to allow him to tutor the students rather than send them to reform school. He said he also discovered a love of working with underprivileged, inner city kids.

I knew I wanted to be a public defender, Ehring said.

After attending law school at the University of Bridgeport, Ehring started volunteering at public defenders offices in Bridgeport and Norwalk, where he came under the tutelage of a young Gary White, now a Superior Court judge in Stamford.

White was the first in a group of mentors over the years. Others have included James Ginocchio, who also became a judge; Butler and former boss Nancy Kekac, all of whom he said helped him understand the law and hone his trial skills.

In his 36 years at Stamford Superior Court, Ehring built a reputation as an honest and unflappable advocate for his clients, his peers said.

No one has done more criminal cases in this judicial district than Howard Ehring, Butler said.

Among his accomplishments, Ehring has raised the level of defense for the mentally handicapped in Stamford. He has won not guilty by reason of insanity verdicts for a number of defendants, including Timothy Anderson, accused of killing his mother in Stamford in 2015, and Aaron Ramsey, accused of killing his father in Wilton in 2012.

In particular, Ehring says he may be most proud of his work on the case of Michael Spencer, a Stamford resident who was charged with possession of more than a kilogram of marijuana with intent to sell and possession of narcotics in 2000.

Spencer was arrested after police learned nearly 27 pounds of marijuana was to be delivered to his apartment under the name of Sylvia Sloan.

After seizing the package before it was delivered, a police officer posing as a delivery person brought the package to Spencers home, where Spencer signed for it and left it in the apartment buildings foyer, according to records at the time.

When arresting Spencer, police entered his apartment, where they found crack cocaine residue on a plate, reports at the time said.

While Spencer was found guilty of possession of narcotics, Ehring appealed the case on the grounds that the evidence used to convict Spencer had been obtained through an illegal search, a violation of Spencers Fourth Amendment rights.

The case made it to the Connecticut Supreme Court, then the U.S. Supreme Court, both of which sided with Ehring and overturned the conviction.

Ehring said its cases like Spencers that keep people like him and Butler so passionate about their work.

The reason that people like Barry and I do this for extended periods of time is that a lot of the clients we get, theyre charged with something, but theyre not guilty of what theyre being charged with, Ehring said.

Paul Ferencek, states attorney for the Stamford-Norwalk Judicial District, said he must have handled hundreds of cases with Ehring over the course of their careers.

He was a passionate advocate for his often difficult clients, but at the same time always reasonable and practical when it came to resolving cases, Ferencek said. He took all the hard cases. What a void he leaves.

Though retired, neither Ehring nor Butler intends to quit practicing law. Ehring said he still plans on handling a few of his former cases that are too far along in the litigation process to hand over to his replacement, public defender Benjamin Aponte.

Butler, meanwhile, plans on taking on small-time cases as a private criminal defense attorney, in addition to spending more time on hobbies like growing garlic, playing guitar and racing his sailboat.
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SANTA FE, N.M. (AP)  New Mexico's governor has presented a long-awaited plan that would set goals for academic proficiency as the state struggles to resolve a lawsuit by frustrated parents who won a court ruling saying the state is failing to provide an adequate education for the vast majority of its students.

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham's proposal released earlier this month is meant to satisfy that 2018 court ruling and ongoing litigation to ensure adequate resources to equip students as they pursue a career or college education.

New Mexico is among a long list of states where parents have turned to the court system to address frustrations with the state budget process and the quality of classroom education.

The public and advocacy groups have until June 17 to comment. The plan is expected to drive immediate reforms by the state Public Education Department, as well as discussion and budget priorities in the Legislature next year. However, critics say it lacks specifics, including detailed funding plans and timelines.

Native American education advocates and tribal leaders put forward their own plan in 2019. Called the Tribal Remedy Framework, it cites sections of the lawsuit, makes specific recommendations and suggests a specific amount of funding to carry them out.

While I am hopeful and happy (the Public Education Department) has released its report and are beginning to move on their response, I am still yet perplexed as to why they have yet to publicly embrace the Tribal Remedy Framework, said Rep. Derrick Lente, of Sandia Pueblo. He called the proposed draft a we know whats best for Native kids approach, and contrasted it to the collaborative plan submitted by tribes and advocates.

Education advocates had expected the governor's proposal to be shared in December, before the January legislative session, but that didn't happen and the state budget was passed in February.

The governor's plan could also be used to determine whether a state court continues to keep watch over spending and initiatives to improve public education.

The court had found that state investments in education, as well as academic outcomes of students, proved that the vast majority of New Mexicos at-risk children finish each school year without the basic literacy and math skills needed to pursue post-secondary education or a career.

For groups covered in the lawsuit, which constitute around 70% of children in the state, proficiency in reading and math at multiple grade levels was far worse than other students, with around 4% to 15% being proficient, the court found.

Lujan Grishams draft plan would set academic performance goals that include a 50% increase in test scores compared to 2019 numbers for children covered by the lawsuit  including Native Americans, English learners, and students with disabilities. But the education department concedes that it can't currently measure increases.

The administration has changed proficiency tests twice since the 2018 court ruling, limiting the states ability to argue to a court that improvements have occurred.

The state also didn't test students comprehensively for two consecutive years during the pandemic. It's rolling out a new battery of tests this year.

When New Mexicos assessment data are finalized and compiled later this summer, the (Public Education Department) will reset that baseline and the targets defined in the draft action plan will be attached to that data, Public Education Department spokeswoman Carolyn Graham said in a statement. Its also important to note that the draft plan is, indeed, a draft, and we expect to receive valuable feedback.

The draft plan offers no funding suggestions. It does highlight recent increases in education spending approved by the governor, including recent significant teacher salary raises and overall education funding increases. Education now accounts for around 45% of the $8.5 billion general fund budget. Unlike most other states, New Mexico funds schools through the state budget rather than relying on property tax revenues.

The administration also touts tweaks to support specific groups named in the lawsuit, including an overhaul of social studies standards that expands focus on Native American history and identity. Those changes have been welcomed by education advocates, even those continuing to mount the lawsuit.

Representatives for the plaintiffs in the ongoing lawsuit welcome the draft plan and the opportunity to respond. But theyre not satisfied with the level of detail provided by the state.

Its clear that it still lacks the critical elements we have been asking for on a statewide level: concrete goals, action steps, estimated funding levels, timelines, responsible parties, and estimated staffing needs, Melissa Candelaria, education director with the New Mexico Center on Law and Poverty, said in a statement. Community input is key but would be much more constructive on a fully fleshed out plan.

The education department had said last year, for example, that the draft would include 90-day benchmarks for shorter-term performance targets. None of that was included in the draft released this month.

The governors plans are heavy on platitudes and short on results, said state House Minority Leader Jim Townsend, R-Artesia. He suggested that delays in producing a plan were to benefit Lujan Grishams reelection campaign.

Education is expected to be a central issue in the gubernatorial race this year.

Lujan Grisham spokeswoman Maddy Hayden said the draft is intended to provide a long-term guide and that more specific details will be added after the public comment period.

The education reforms were developed collaboratively across many agencies and there is shared understanding and accountability on the part of agencies to get this critical work done, Hayden said.

Lujan Grishams office declined to comment on future legal plans, such as seeking to dismiss the lawsuit again, as she tried unsuccessfully to do in 2020.

Earlier this year, the Legislature and the governor approved $500,000 in legal spending related to the case. Thats on top of an estimated $6 million already spent by Lujan Grisham, a Democrat, and her Republican predecessor to fight the lawsuit since 2014.

___

Attanasio is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on under-covered issues. Follow Attanasio on Twitter.
Hazleton, PA (18201)

Today

Partly cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 76F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Showers this evening, becoming a steady rain overnight. Low 59F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall near a half an inch.
Nairobi  The Indian market will play a significant role in the recovery of Kenya's tourism sector, tourism players in Kenya have said.

The tourism arrival numbers during the period of Jan- April 2022 already record a 55 percent growth with 22,532 arrivals compared to 11,884 during the same period in 2021.

This growth in numbers can be attributed to Kenya's continued investment in the Indian market through marketing campaigns as well as Kenya's conformance to the Covid-19 protocols that provide assurance to travelers of their safety while at the destination.

Speaking during a dinner held to receive visitors from India at the Nairobi National Park, Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) CEO Dr Betty Radier said the board would continue to market Kenya in India and that she was optimistic of further improvement by the end of the year.

"We are seeing a lot of interest from the Indian market and we want this to continue, this is the reason we have employed a strategy specific to this market which is slowly evolving to be a key source market for Kenya. In 2019, prior to the pandemic we had 122,649 travelers coming into Kenya and this year we already have a 55 percent improvement compared to last year during this period. We anticipate that we shall see about 80,000 travelers from India by close of this year which will be a major coup bearing in mind how India was hit by the pandemic" Said DR Radier

The visitors were the second batch of an incentive travel group from Reliance Industries (RIL's), an Indian multinational conglomerate company, headquartered in Mumbai. The first group arrived in the country three weeks ago and have so far visited attractions in Nairobi and the Maasai mara.

"We are happy to see more visitors coming in from India, three weeks ago we had a group of around 150 people coming in and today we are hosting a similar number. The interest here is a combination of Business and Leisure and Magical Kenya has a lot to offer. Through the groups we shall showcase the destinations preparedness against Covid-19as they sample the best from the destination.

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Recently in march, India resumed International scheduled flights following a suspension instituted to curb the spread of Covid-19, the resumption has had a positive impact on travel between the two countries. In 2019, India's flag carrier Air India relaunched its direct flights to Nairobi, a move that sought to boost tourism between the two countries. The airline had earlier stopped operations on the route for eight years due to low volume of business.

Destination Management Company (DMC) Safari Trails CEO Rajay Thethi, says "Kenya is an important destination for Indian visitors with Kenya having a big Indian community. The decision to remove PCR testing and resuming daily flights to India has been key in attracting the visitors to this market. Indians are interested in wildlife and this is the reason we are today seeing many Wildlife photographers from India. This group shall be visiting attractions in Nairobi and Maasai Mara" Said Thethi

India is currently a top five market for Kenya's tourism and the two countries continue to have cordial relations bound by both history and culture.

This relationship has grown over the years as both countries share a common interest in promoting economic growth through trade and investment. To this end, India has been one of Kenya's major trading partners since independence in 1963 with bilateral trade between the two nations growing steadily over the years.
The power of the example of those who defeated cancer can have a mobilizing and encouraging effect for all those who find that they have this diagnosis, Prime Minister Nicolae Ciuca said on Sunday, stating that the National Cancer Fighting Plan will mean a paradigm shift from treatment regimens that are sometimes quite rigid to personalized medicine, Agerpres reports.

His message comes in the context of marking the National Cancer Survivors' Day. On this occasion, Victoria Palace will be illuminated on Sunday evening, between 21.00 and 23.00, in the colors and logo symbol chosen for this day - the Yellow Water Lily."The initiative to establish National Cancer Survivors' Day is a message of hope for those who, unfortunately, find that they have this diagnosis. The power of the example of those who have overcome the disease can have a mobilizing and encouraging effect at the same time. The confidence that you too can get over such a trial, it means that you have paved the way for healing, with the valuable support of doctors and access to treatments," the prime minister said.According to him, in all this effort, the role of the authorities and the entire health system is just as important both during the treatment period and after healing.''We want these people to know that we are with them in the battle for life and that their hope is truly a chance to be fulfilled. In this sense, the National Cancer Fighting Plan, carried out under the auspices of the Presidential Administration, with experts from the Ministry of Health, representatives of civil society and oncology patients, will mean a paradigm shift from treatment schemes that are sometimes quite rigid, towards a personalized medicine that requires a more precise diagnosis and a treatment adapted to the needs of each patient", declared the prime minister.Romania has, starting this year, on the first Sunday of June, a day dedicated to those who managed to win the fight against a disease from the oncological spectrum."The Government expresses its full support for the efforts to provide confidence in treatment options and the chances of a cure, while raising awareness about the importance of preventing and early diagnosis of cancer - a diagnosis that many consider without hope, but which the cancer survivors overcame by showing an unsuspected power, born of hope'', reads a Government's release.
ST. LOUIS  Voters in north St. Louis 21st Ward may have three candidates to choose from in an upcoming special election to pick a successor to former Alderman John Collins-Muhammad  one of three city Democratic politicians facing newly-filed corruption charges.

As expected, the city Democratic Central Committee on Saturday voted to pick the 21st Ward party committeewoman, Laura Keys, as the Democratic nominee to replace Collins-Muhammad.

Keys already has one opponent for sure: JoAnn Williams, a retired Carpenters Union official, who on Tuesday turned in more than the required 172 signatures of registered voters to qualify as an independent candidate.

Gary Stoff, a city Election Board official, said the board verified later in the week that Williams had made the cut.

Meanwhile, Melinda Long, a former alderman from the ward, said Saturday that she, too, is gathering signatures to try to qualify as an independent candidate for the special election, which will be held Aug. 2. Thats the day of the statewide primary.

Collins-Muhammad, 30, abruptly resigned last month, giving no reason but asking for forgiveness for his mistakes. On Thursday, he entered a not guilty plea to federal bribery charges, as did two of his former Board of Aldermen colleagues who also were indicted.

One of them, Jeffrey Boyd, resigned Friday from his longtime post of 22nd Ward alderman. The Election Board is expected to decide Monday on the date for a separate special election to pick Boyds successor. The other official who was charged, Aldermanic President Lewis Reed, says he will not resign.

Keys, 59, ran unsuccessfully against Collins-Muhammad twice, last year and in 2017. She is a secretary in the St. Louis recorder of deeds office.

I have no comment about him, Keys said Saturday about Collins-Muhammad. We need to look ahead to the great things we hopefully will be able to do in north St. Louis.

Long, 58, an insurance broker, said if she gets on the ballot and is elected, shell work to limit the number of liquor stores in the ward. Long also lost to Collins-Muhammad in last years election. Williams, 65, could not be reached for comment Saturday.

11th Ward nominee

Meanwhile, the city Democratic committee tapped Jimmy Lappe, 39, to run in yet another special election, on July 12, called to choose a successor to former 11th Ward Alderman Sarah Wood Martin.

Martin resigned her post in the far south side ward in April for work-related reasons.

Lappe is data research director for Missouri Jobs for Justice, a coalition of unions and community groups that advocates for issues such as increasing the minimum wage and expanding Medicaid.

Previously, he was an organizer with the United Food and Commercial Workers union. So far, no other candidates have emerged in the 11th Ward race.

The city Republican chairwoman, Mary Theresa McLean, said the GOP is trying to recruit candidates to run in both the 11th and 21st ward races but has yet to do so.

Ballot listing flap

A dispute over how the official party nominees are listed on the ballot in the upcoming special votes may be headed to court.

Attorney David Roland has threatened to sue the Election Board if it goes ahead with its announced plan to list party designations on the ballot for the 11th Ward Democratic nominee and a Republican nominee if there is one.

He contends that the policy, which the board used in a previous special election April 18 and also plans to employ for the Aug. 2 special vote, violates a voter-approved 2020 city ordinance. That ordinance, called Proposition D, mandates nonpartisan elections.

Initially, the board, following its own attorneys advice, decided to let the Democratic and Republican committees submit nominees for the April special election to pick a new 28th Ward alderman but not to list those designations on the ballot.

That was an attempt to mesh the nonpartisan election requirement in the new ordinance with a longstanding city charter provision authorizing parties to nominate candidates to fill aldermanic vacancies. The charter holds precedence.

But after pushback from some Democrats, the board voted 2-1 along party lines to change its position and to list 28th Ward Democratic nominee Michael Gras and his Republican opponent, Taunia Allen Mason, with Dem and Rep designations used in the past.

Typically that would give the Democratic nominee an advantage in the heavily Democratic city. Gras ended up winning easily.

Roland, the attorney urging the board to return to its original position, said in an interview that his focus isnt on any particular election or election outcome but to make sure the Board of Elections is doing their jobs properly and in accordance with the wishes of the people.

Normally the board, appointed by the governor, is evenly split between the two major parties but one GOP seat has been vacant because of a resignation several months ago.

Last week, however, Gov. Mike Parson appointed Willert Home Products executive Derek Winters to the open Republican spot on the board; he was sworn in Friday.

Posted at 8:45 p.m. Saturday, June 4.

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After a gunman killed 19 children and two teachers at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, on May 24, several pastors around the country challenged their conservative counterparts with this question: Are you pro-life if you are pro-gun?

One of those faith leaders is the Rev. Steven Marsh, senior pastor of Geneva Presbyterian Church in Laguna Woods, California. Thats where a gunman, who officials say was fueled by hate against Taiwan, opened fire on May 15 at a luncheon organized by members of the Irvine Taiwanese Presbyterian Church, killing one and injuring five others.

Ive heard people tell me Im not Christian because Im pro-choice, Marsh said. I ask those people: How can you be pro-life and not support getting rid of assault rifles? You cant pick and choose where you want to be pro-life.

Marshs emotional statement is a vignette in the larger narrative of a nation divided on how  or if  guns should be regulated. The faith community is not monolithic on this issue.

People of faith who are tired of years of failed gun control efforts and grieving the latest mass shooting victims are pointing out what they say is hypocrisy  conservative Christians pushing to abolish abortion and grant unfettered access to guns. Those who disagree contend the real problem is sin and soft targets. Its not guns, but the evil in people and abortions that kill, they say.

These entrenched, partisan divisions in the U.S. on abortion and gun rights are stark after high-profile massacres in New York, California, Texas and elsewhere as the country awaits a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that could overturn the constitutional right to abortion.

According to 2017 Pew Research Center data analyzed for Christianity Today, 41% of white evangelicals own a gun compared to 30% of Americans overall  the highest share of any religious group. The survey also shows 74% of all gun owners in the U.S. agree that their right to gun ownership is essential to their sense of freedom. Most states also allow firearms in places of worship.

Christian author and activist Shane Claiborne disputes the notion that the U.S. has a sin problem, but not a gun problem; he says it has both. Claiborne recently went to Uvalde to support victims, and to Houston to pray and protest at the National Rifle Associations convention held days after the massacre.

He passed out tracts asserting We cant be pro-life and ignore gun violence and asking Will we choose the gun or the cross? Claiborne said he was among those asked to leave the NRAs Sunday prayer breakfast after disrupting the program to call for prayer for the Uvalde victims.

Claiborne wants to see laws change, including policies that would raise the age of gun ownership, limit magazine capacity, ban assault-style weapons and mandate training. He said laws cant make people love each other, but they can make it more difficult to take a life.

We want to make it harder for folks to kill other people, and were making it really easy right now, Claiborne said.

Conservative pastors have said mass shootings and other social harms are the result of an overall degradation in moral values and disregard for human life.

Pastor Tim Lee, an evangelist and a former U.S. Marine who lost both legs during the Vietnam War, was one of the featured speakers at the NRA prayer breakfast that Claiborne and others were asked to leave.

After the Uvalde shooting, Lee posted on his Facebook page: This is so heartbreaking. I have said it so many times  When kids hear adults say that its OK to kill babies (abortion) then all respect for human lives is gone.

The gun debate is deeply personal for the Rev. Chineta Goodjoin. Her best friend, Sharonda Coleman-Singleton, was one of nine people shot and killed by Dylann Roof in June 2015 as they sat in prayer at the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina.

Goodjoin, who leads New Hope Presbyterian Church in Anaheim, California, said people of faith must rise up in righteous anger to demand common-sense gun regulation. When massacres occur in community spaces like churches, schools and supermarkets, it tests an entire communitys resiliency, she said.

How can you teach in schools when people are traumatized by gun violence? she said. When a church is no longer a safe space, do I work to enhance security or enhance peoples faith? The impact is like an epidemic that touches every fiber of our being.

But others, like the Rev. Russ Tenhoff, say it is simply not possible to legislate safety.

There are plenty of laws, but people who are lawless dont obey them, said Tenhoff, lead pastor of Mountainside Community Fellowship in Kingwood, West Virginia. Murders are going to happen even without firearms. Were never going to be able to prevent gun violence.

As a firearms safety officer who trains adults and children, Tenhoff says the solution is to harden the schools, which have become soft targets.

We need to put one-way locks on schools, have metal detectors and an armed officer in every school, he said.

For a Catholic pastor in Newtown, Connecticut, who a decade ago experienced the grief that now envelops Uvalde, the lack of political will to enact gun legislation is unfathomable.

Monsignor Robert Weiss, who leads the St. Rose of Lima parish, presided over the funeral of eight victims who were murdered in Sandy Hook Elementary School on Dec. 14, 2012. He held an evening Mass in his church the day after the Texas shooting.

I guess I was a fool to think Sandy Hook was going to change the world, he said in a video recording of the service.

Weiss also questioned the consequences of individualism in America.

Is that what our forefathers intended for us? he asked. To live in a country where unborn babies are aborted, where children are murdered in school where they should be safe, where you cant even go to a grocery store or to a church or to a library and feel like youll be OK?

Pastor Mike McBride, who leads The Way Christian Center in Berkeley, California, said those on different sides of the gun issue must find common concerns to unite around and work on solutions together.

McBride says many who are pro-gun are also worried about accidental gun deaths, intimate partner violence and suicides.

Those shared concerns can be addressed with targeted strategies that dont keep us bogged down in the Second Amendment fight, he said.

McBride suggests having listening campaigns across church groups and neighborhoods  a peace infrastructure to combat violence.

Marsh, the Laguna Woods pastor, says the shooting in his church and other recent massacres have inspired him to have more serious conversations about this issue in his community. He would like to see diverse faith communities organize marches in local seats of government to push legislators to act.

Enough is enough, he said. We need to stop using Christianity as a veneer to deny reality.
LOS ANGELES (AP)  Brad Johnson, who jumped from rodeo cowboy to portraying the Marlboro Man in cigarette spots and film and TV roles including Steven Spielbergs Always and Melrose Place, has died. He was 62.

Johnson died Feb. 18 in Fort Worth, Texas, of complications from COVID-19, his agent, Linda McAlister, said Saturday.

Johnson played opposite Holly Hunter in 1989s Always, a remake of a 1943 film (A Guy Named Joe) about firefighting pilots. He played a pilot again in the 2000 religious apocalyptic thriller Left Behind, starring Kirk Cameron, and was in its two sequels.

He worked regularly on TV, including in the recurring role of Dr. Dominick OMalley in Melrose Place; Rough Riders, Soldier of Fortune, Inc. and CSI: Crime Scene Investigation.

Johnson was born in October 1959 to parents Grove, a horse trainer, and Virginia, in Tucson, Arizona. After competing in rodeos as a youth, he began his professional rodeo career in 1984 and was discovered by a movie scout, according to a family biography.

His work as an actor and as a Marlboro Man  one of a succession used by the brand  brought Johnson and his wife, Laurie, to California. They eventually moved their family to a ranch in New Mexico and the Colorado mountains before settling in north Texas. He sold ranchland real estate there.

"As much as he loved cowboying and the outdoors, Brad loved nothing more than his family. He put them before himself in every way and they know that they could not have been blessed with a better husband and father, his family said in a statement.

Although he was taken too early, he lived life to the fullest, they said.

Johnsons survivors include his wife of 35 years, Laurie, as well as their children Shane, Bellamy, Rachel, Eliana, Eden, Rebekah, Annabeth and William, and Johnson's stepmother, Teresa Johnson.

Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
A gunman suspected of fatally shooting a retired county judge at a Wisconsin home had a list that included Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers, Whitmer's office and a law enforcement source said Saturday.

Douglas K. Uhde, 56, who has not been charged, is suspected of killing retired Juneau County Judge John Roemer at Roemer's house in New Lisbon on Friday, the Wisconsin Department of Justice said in a news release Saturday.

Uhde was found in the basement of the home with a self-inflicted gunshot wound, following attempts by police to negotiate with him. Uhde is hospitalized in critical condition, DOJ officials said.

Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul on Friday said the shooting appeared to be a targeted act and that the gunman had selected people who were part of the judicial system.

But investigators believe the gunman also may have planned to target other government officials and found a list in his vehicle that contained the names of several other prominent elected leaders, a law enforcement official said. The other targets on the list, which mentioned Roemer, included Evers, McConnell and Whitmer, the official said.

Roemer was found zip-tied to a chair in his home and had been fatally shot, the official said. The official could not discuss details of the investigation publicly and spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.

Uhde has an extensive criminal and prison record dating back at least two decades, including a case when he was sentenced by Roemer to six years in prison on weapons charges. He was released from his last prison stint in April 2020.

Zach Pohl, Whitmer's deputy chief of staff, said her office was notified that her name appeared on the Wisconsin gunman's list.

Governor Whitmer has demonstrated repeatedly that she is tough, and she will not be bullied or intimidated from doing her job and working across the aisle to get things done for the people of Michigan," Pohl said.

Whitmer became the object of protests and criticism after she blamed former President Donald Trump for stoking anger over COVID-19 restrictions and refusing to condemn right-wing extremists.

A trial held earlier this year in which four men accused in an alleged kidnapping plot of the Michigan Democrat resulted in the acquittal of two of the men. The jury could not reach a unanimous verdict for the other two.

Roemer, 68, was a very loving, very encouraging man with a wonderful sense of humor who will be dearly missed by the community, said Chip Wilke, pastor at St. Pauls Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mauston, where Roemer was president of the congregation and evangelism chairman. He was in my office several mornings a week.

Wilke said after he was notified of Roemers death Friday the pastors thought was Im glad we have Jesus and we know where hes at.

Roemer retired from the bench in 2017. He was first elected in 2004 and was reelected in 2010 and 2016. He previously had served as an assistant district attorney for Juneau County and an assistant state public defender. He also worked in private practice and served as a lieutenant colonel for the U.S. Army Reserves.

Investigators said there is no immediate danger to the public.

The information thats been gathered indicated that it was a targeted act and that the targeting was based on some sort of court case or court cases, Kaul said.

The Juneau County Sheriffs Office received a call that two shots were fired at a home in New Lisbon at 6:30 a.m. Friday, according to the Division of Criminal Investigation. The caller had fled the home and made the call from another nearby house.

Donna Voss, a neighbor, told The Associated Press she heard law enforcement on a loudspeaker telling the man to surrender and leave the home.

For Voss, the shooting came as a shock in a usually quiet neighborhood where houses sit alongside farmland and wooded lots, about 80 miles (130 kilometers) northwest of Madison.

Its unbelievable and really freaky, she said.

New Lisbon, which has a population of about 2,500 people, is in Juneau County in central Wisconsin.

Kolpack reported from Fargo, North Dakota. Balsamo reported from Washington, D.C.

Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
As the world celebrates World Environment Day, on June 5, Rwanda Environment Management Authority has obliged mining companies to comply with environment protection across the country.

Juliet Kabera, The Director General of REMA said that the call follows a recent inspection which detected that mining firms are not rehabilitating mining sites after mineral extraction.

With degraded land, due to mining activities, consequences such as soil erosion, flooding, loss of biodiversity were escalating, according to officials.

"We have been conducting different inspections in the mining sector. Here we partnered with Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board. Uniquely, we had the environment professional experts in the inspections. This is because we cannot achieve the sustainable mining that we need if all of us do not work together," she said.

She said that the activity was closed on June 2, 2022 after a number of days of inspections, adding that mining firms should embrace practices to ensure sustainable mining.

The activity aimed to raise awareness on implementation of Environmental and Social Management Plans (ESMPs) in the mining sector.

According to Rwanda Mines Petroleum and Gas Board (RMB), in 2018, only 23 percent of mining firms were complying with mining standards and 40 per cent in 2019.

That means that firms failed to comply with safety and health standards, waste management, modern mining operations, environment protection, processing, infrastructures, community relations and others.

At least 50 per cent of minerals disappear due to artisanal mining and with modern techniques; The Government targets $1.5 billion in annual revenues from mineral exports by 2024.

New policy compels mining firms to restore degraded land

Recently, the mining board told The New Times that mining firms, which have been evading the responsibility to rehabilitate land degraded by their mining activities, will no longer be able to get away with it following the introduction of a new system of calculating rehabilitation expenses.

Initially, mining operators had to inject money in Rwanda Environment Fund (FONERWA) as a guarantee fee that the Government could spend in rehabilitating areas degraded by mining companies.

However, officials explained that the operators intentionally undervalue the real cost of rehabilitation.

And whenever the operators would abandon their mining operations or complete their projects and disappear, the government was facing shortage of funds to restore the site.

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To avert the operators' trickery, RMB said that a new tool dubbed "Environment Bond Calculator," whose guidelines were issued recently has been developed to calculate the real cost needed for the rehabilitation.

The operators will have to deposit the bond to FONERWA determining the real cost planned for the rehabilitation.

To solve the problem, before commencing mining activities, mining operators must show an environment impact assessment for their projects.

This shows an environment management plan, that indicates how they will restore the degraded land with an attached real cost calculated by the 'newly developed bond calculator. '

The developed bond calculator tool will enable RDB, which normally approves the projects, to check if the rehabilitation cost has been well calculated.

The bond calculator automatically generates the real cost considering all activities in the project.

Mining operators will have to deposit a fraction of the cost to FONERWA and a big part of it has to be guaranteed by the bank that can agree to work with them.

World Environment Day is celebrated annually, to encourage worldwide awareness and action to protect the environment.

editor@newtimesrwanda.com

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Regarding Assault-style weapon in Tulsa shooting bought that day, gunman targeted doctor, police say (June 2): I have seen signs that say All Lives Matter. I hope that means the lives of music festival attendees in Las Vegas, shoppers in New York, students and teachers in Texas who were all murdered with assault weapons.

Assault rifles are designed and built to kill as many people as possible, as quickly as possible. Every candidate for Congress and president should be asked the simple question: Do you support banning the sale of assault type weapons to the general public? If the answer is yes, that is a pro-life candidate. If the answer is no, that is a pro-death candidate.

I intend to only vote for pro-life candidates, and I encourage everyone to do the same. If voters choose a pro-death candidate, the blood of hundreds of victims surely to die without a change in this law is indirectly on their hands.

Paul R. Schroeder  Florissant
Regarding Kevin McDermotts column Missouri sees a Texas level of carnage every week. Its a choice weve made. (May 28): I am not allowed to take a gun to the Missouri Capitol building. I am not allowed to carry a gun in a courtroom. Why? Because the politicians and judges are afraid of getting shot, so have made laws to protect themselves. Why cant we have laws to protect our children?
As road-trippers, some motorists behave like hares, some tortoises. Hares push the speed limit on the interstates to pass semi-trucks and slowpokes while tortoises stick to back roads, dawdle to enjoy the scenery and take detours.

I played tortoise and scored a fairy-tale win on the Blue Ridge Parkway through southwest Virginia and northwest North Carolina. While the hares raced down Interstate 81 that roughly parallels the parkway, I eased into a leisurely pace on this two-lane ribbon of asphalt where the speed limit maxes out at 45 mph. At roadside lookouts, I gawked at the misty Blue Ridge Mountains and took time to hike the web of forest trails spiraling off this long, skinny national park.

Linking national parks

The parkway meanders 469 miles between Shenandoah National Park and Great Smoky Mountains National Park and draws road-trippers in spring, summer and autumn. Construction began in 1935 as a work project during the Depression. Landscape architect Stanley Abbott envisioned a scenic highway lying gently on the land, following the ridgeline with few straight stretches. No billboards, no big commercial vehicles.

I began at Milepost 0 where Shenandoah National Park ends and the parkway begins. Temperatures in the valley on that July day hovered around 90 degrees but dropped to the 70s on the ridge. After moseying along for 122 miles, I fell in love with the drive and decided to return in October to continue an additional 182 miles during fall-foliage season.

My first stop at Milepost 5.8 took me to the outdoor farm museum at Humpback Rocks, one of several places on the parkway offering snippets of Appalachian history and culture. Walking past a log cabin and pioneer outbuildings I came to a trail leading to the distinctive Humpback Rocks, a landmark guiding wagon trains in the 1840s. The short, steep path to the rocks joins the rugged Appalachian Trail meandering 100 miles along the Virginia stretch of the parkway.

Take detours

I chose to save my legs for a hike in Natural Bridge State Park, just off the parkway. As I walked under the 215-foot-tall limestone bridge, the remains of a collapsed cave, I craned my neck to make out initials carved by George Washington when he surveyed the site. Another future president, Thomas Jefferson, bought the bridge and surrounding land from King George III in 1774 for the equivalent of $2.40.

Another detour at Milepost 85.9, the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center, took me to the National D-Day Memorial outside Bedford, Virginia. This small town suffered the highest per capita loss of inhabitants during this turning point in World War II. A plaza ringed by bronze plaques bearing the names of 4,415 Allied troops who died during the invasion was especially moving. An impressive 44.5-foot arch loomed over the names of the five beaches where the battle raged in Normandy, France.

Parkway detours not only lead to Blue Ridge attractions, but also to road-tripping necessities. You wont find gas stations on the parkway; food and lodging are few and far between; cell service is spotty. Sections of the road close when it snows or need repair. One such detour routed me around Roanoke, Virginia, biggest city on the parkway and the place where my summer road trip ended and my autumn one began.

Leaf-peeping on the parkway

I timed my return to Roanoke in mid-October for peak fall foliage, but learned parkway elevation, which varies 5,000 feet, means trees turn first at the highest levels. At Mabry Mill, Milepost 176.2, elevation 2,913 feet, fall colors had just begun to frame the historic mill, often cited as the most photographed spot on the parkway. While I waited for a table at the tiny restaurant, I walked the Mountain Industry Trail where national park rangers demonstrated pioneer tasks.

My lodging for the night took me off the parkway to Primland, a 12,000-acre estate, part of the Auberge Collection of luxury resorts known for fine dining at Elements and its variety of lodging choices, including treehouses. The Blue Ridge vista from my cottage on the edge of a gorge took my breath away as did the otherworldly view of planets and galaxies from telescopes in the resorts mountaintop observatory, perhaps the most unusual in its broad menu of facilities and activities.

Appalachian tunes prompted me to pull over at Milepost 213, the Blue Ridge Music Center where a band played on the breezeway. These casual weekday performances happen May to October with larger concerts in an amphitheater on weekends. Inside the centers Roots of American Music exhibit, I learned traditional instruments and songs of the Blue Ridge evolved from African, Scottish, Irish and English influences.

On to North Carolina

Crossing into North Carolina, more fall colors emerged as the elevation climbed, as did the number of vehicles sharing the road. This stretch of the parkway gets twice as much traffic as the Virginia section.

At Milepost 294, Moses H. Cone Memorial Park reveals how the upper crust lived on the Blue Ridge at the turn of the last century. Once the 3,500-acre estate of a denim manufacturer, its 23-room mansion houses the Parkway Craft Center devoted to the work of regional artists.

One of the estates old carriage roads connects to Chetola Resort, my home for the night. Fall foliage near peak ringed a lake on the 78-acre family vacation property in Blowing Rock, North Carolina, one of the few towns right on the parkway. Along with modern condos and lodge rooms, guests can stay in a 1940s-style bed-and-breakfast in the resorts former manor house, site of the popular Timberlake Restaurant.

I couldnt pass up a chance to see the towns namesake and the states oldest tourist attraction, the Blowing Rock. This jagged cliff hangs over a 3,000-foot-deep gorge forming a flume where winds blow back items tossed over the edge. No wind that day, so I peered across the gorge to distant Mount Mitchell, the highest point east of the Mississippi River at 6,684 feet, and Grandfather Mountain, 5,946 feet, my next destination just a mile off the parkway.

A nonprofit attraction approaching the summit of Grandfather Mountain has a nature center, wild animal enclosures and a cafe serving juicy, two-patty Mile-High Burgers. Its biggest draw, the Mile High Swinging Bridge, stretches 228-feet above an 80-foot-deep chasm. About halfway across the steel suspension bridge, a marker informs walkers with shaky legs they have reached an elevation of 5,280 feet  yup, thats a mile  at this point on the mountain. Once I found my footing, I paused to enjoy a 360-degree view of slopes cloaked in peak fall finery.

I made my basecamp for exploring Grandfather Mountain in Banner Elk, North Carolina, a one-stoplight town with a surprising number of highly rated restaurants. Family-run Sorrentos Italian Bistro makes a stuffed eggplant dish I still dream about. On a Friday night at Stonewalls, a long-running restaurant with an old-school vibe, a server slid a juicy slice of prime rib in front of me while I griped about the crowds of leaf-peepers.

Just wait until the weekend, she said.

She was right. Saturday brought a surge of traffic on the parkway. Cars, motorcycles, RVs vied for parking at scenic overlooks where a panorama unfolded in a kaleidoscope of colors. Driving over Linn Cove Viaduct hugging Grandfather Mountain, I imagined word bubbles emerging from vehicles in a spill of adjectives: amazing, gorgeous, stunning.

The viaduct, a 1,243-foot-long engineering marvel at Milepost 304, was the last link in the parkway to be completed. It opened in 1987, 52 years after the first shovel in this 469-mile-long project bit the earth.

Parkway construction finished here and so did my journey. I knew the most popular stretch of parkway still lay ahead, south toward Asheville, North Carolina. Even a tortoise can lose patience with crowds during peak fall foliage season. I headed for the nearest interstate highway and hightailed it home.

If you go

Blue Ridge Parkway: nps.gov/blri/index.htm

Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection: aubergeresorts.com/primland/

Chetola Resort: chetola.com
WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The Ecosystem Services Market Consortium (ESMC) and the Conservation Innovation Fund (CIF) announced today the launch of an inaugural project to streamline the creation and sale of environmental credits from dairy and beef producers across the Mid-Atlantic. Through the project, farmers will implement practices such as edge-of-field conservation, increased nutrient management, manure management, cover crops, and reduced tillage. These practices will generate environmental credits from measurable water quality improvements, carbon reduction, and biodiversity enhancements.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220602005239/en/

The project provides up-front capital to producers along with agricultural technical assistance providers to develop water, biodiversity, and carbon credits that benefit all stakeholders. Credit buyers in the food and beverage sector will have the opportunity to meet their Scope 3 supply chain carbon goals using agriculture as an environmental solution. Credits developed through the project will meet the quality requirements of global corporate supply chain accounting and reporting standards.

Market-based sustainability initiatives have the potential to fundamentally reshape how we integrate carbon sequestration, water quality, and biodiversity preservation into our agricultural supply chains, said Ashley Allen Jones, CEO of i2 Capital and founding board member of the CIF. We formed the Conservation Innovation Fund to systematically align resources and reduce adoption risk to agricultural producers, quantification and transaction experts, and corporate purchasers, thereby strengthening the emerging market for carbon and water smart commodities.

Additional lead project partners include Maryland & Virginia Milk Producers Cooperative Association (MDVA), TeamAg, RedBarn Consulting, Stroud Water Research Center, the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay, Lancaster Clean Water Partners, the Alliance for the Shenandoah Valley, and members of the Virginia and Pennsylvania Soil Health Coalitions, alongside several food and beverage brands.

Our family farmer-owned cooperative of over 950 dairy farmers across the Mid-Atlantic embraces sustainability as a core operating principal, said Lindsay Reames, Executive Vice President of Sustainability and External Relations for MDVA. Our partnership with ESMC and CIF will support the delivery of carbon- and water-smart commodities to our many retail customers while strengthening farm operations and bolstering rural economies across our region.

ESMC is targeting up to 500,000 acres enrollment in 2022 with its market program launch, Eco-Harvest. ESMCs program stacks multiple ecosystem credits, including increased soil carbon, reduced greenhouse gases, water quality, water use conservation, and biodiversity, to make ESMC a unique and attractive option for farmers and for buyers and investors seeking high quality carbon and environmental credits.

ESMCs Executive Director Debbie Reed noted that, US farmers and ranchers are rising to the challenge to become more sustainable and meet the demands of corporations and consumers. Our joint programming will reward farmers for implementing sustainability practices that are quantified and verified in our digitized program that generates high quality credits. The up-front funding mechanism of this project provides Mid-Atlantic producers the capital to implement practices with less financial risk. This increases their ability to participate in ecosystem services markets that scale quantified improvements to water, carbon, and biodiversity.

About Ecosystem Services Market Consortium

Ecosystem Services Market Consortium (ESMC) is a non-profit collective action program dedicated to scaling quantified and verified sustainable ecosystem services from agriculture. ESMC is a public private partnership of the agricultural supply chain and value chain  including agricultural producer groups and co-ops, major corporate food and beverage companies, agribusiness, conservation and environmental NGOs, ag tech companies, land grant universities, and others. ESMC members have collectively invested in and are launching ESMCs national scale market program in May 2022. Learn more at www.ecosystemservicesmarket.org.

About the Conservation Innovation Fund

The Conservation Innovation Fund (CIF) is a new non-profit blended finance vehicle designed to de-risk and scale market-based conservation through the development and sale of water, carbon, and biodiversity assets. The CIF exists at the mid-point between charitable and commercial capital - combining public and private grants, program related investments, mission related investments and commercial capital to fund targeted conservation strategies on private working lands in the United States. Learn more at www.conservationinnovationfund.org.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220602005239/en/

Debbie Reed

[email protected]

Ashley Allen Jones

[email protected]

Source: Ecosystem Services Market Consortium
SAN FRANCISCO, June 05, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Candidate Dr. Vinson Eugene Allen is gaining popularity throughout the state and has built a solid foundation for the upcoming June 7th primary for California Insurance Commissioner. The candidate has been campaigning up and down the California Coast, spreading the message, "We're in this together." According to a recent Q & A with The San Diego Tribune, Dr. Allen has been positioned as one of the top three Democrats to enter the race and has raised over one million dollars. The Los Angeles Doctor has also received a public endorsement from the San Diego Voice & View Point.

Dr. Allen's advertising platform has taken off across the state, reaching voters from San Diego to Oakland, California. In Los Angeles, the Doctor has dominated advertising in the city with billboards, local Radio ads and Television, reminding voters to come out and vote. Many southern California residents have begun to show support with donations for Dr. Allen. The candidate has received support from the National Association of African American Insurance Agents and has received an endorsement from the (IAPAC) I Chinese American Political Action Committee. Support is growing daily for the candidate. Dr. Allen is known in Los Angeles for feeding families and taking charge in the community when there is a crisis.

Oakland Voters have shown support for the candidate. Dr. Allen has been making weekly visits to the Bay Area, diligently working to hear the unspoken and silent voices in those communities. Voters believe he represents change for the insurance industry while calling out the disparity evident in the auto insurance sector. His vision is to develop a workable solution to end increased insurance premiums within our elderly population, and to provide a viable solution to prevent insurance non-renewals and increased premiums within our urban wildlife interface. Dr. Allen recently gave an interview to the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce with Marisol Rubio, where he spoke in detail about his plans if he is elected as Insurance Commissioner. President George Holland of the NAACP of Oakland has also reached out to the candidate with support.

During a recent visit to San Francisco, Candidate Allen was introduced to Dr. Amos Brown, a historic leader known for many acts of bravery during the civil rights movement. Being impressed with his admiration for the residents of California, he invited Dr. Allen to San Francisco to attend a special Sunday service on June 5, 2022, to speak before his congregation. Allen has plans to meet with the San Francisco chapter of the NAACP and members of the Asian and Spanish communities to discuss bringing our communities together for a better California.

The candidate recently traveled to Sacramento, where he attended the State Congressional Committee meeting and spoke with insurance political action committees and agents to discuss his plans once in office. Dr. Allen was interviewed on the Sac Town Talk podcast by Jarhett Blonien, where he discussed why he has decided to run for California Insurance Commissioner. Candidate Allen has appeared on many podcasts, radio shows, and local television, including Hollywood Unlocked with Jason Lee and The Cut.

Dr. Allen is the founder of Dusk to Dawn Urgent Care facilities, located throughout Southern California. For 20 years, Dr. Eugene Allen and his wife, Dr. Connie Yu Allen, have centered their commitment to the communities of Los Angeles. Dr. Allen, Dr. Yu, and their children have served the Los Angeles community with turkey giveaways, toys, clothing, donations, and overall care to everyone in need of support. Dr. Allen is a friend, brother, and son to those who come into contact with the candidate.

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PORTSMOUTH, Va.  The U.S. Coast Guard said Sunday afternoon it had suspended its search for a missing boater in the Chesapeake Bay.

The Coast Guard announced the search for 63-year-old Christopher Martin Young a day earlier, saying it had commenced after a boat with "signs of recent occupancy" was found beached near Factory Point, Va.

Cell phone data indicated the vessel departed Annapolis, Maryland, Friday evening and traveled south, according to a news release.

The Coast Guard and other agencies that contributed aircraft and boats searched an area of approximately 1,310 square miles over the course of 33 hours.

"It is always a difficult decision to suspend a search and rescue case," Christopher Scraba, the active search suspension authority at the Coast Guard District Five command center, said in a news release. "Our deepest sympathies and condolences go out to the family and friends of Mr. Young during this difficult time."

A spokesman for the Virginia Marine Police told The Virginian-Pilot the agency would continue to comb the area from Annapolis to Hampton throughout the week.

Young did not make any distress calls, and police are not aware of any hazardous weather conditions while he was operating the boat, the spokesman, Zachary Widgeon, told the newspaper.
NORTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (Tribune News Service)  Electric Boat held a keel-laying ceremony Saturday morning to mark the beginning of construction for the submarine District of Columbia (SSBN 826), the first of its new namesake class of boats.

Political and military dignitaries converged on the Quonset Point facility in North Kingstown for the keel laying  the ceremonial start of construction for a submarine. U.S. Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton, D- DC, sponsored the ship and inscribed her initials on it Saturday.

Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro delivered the ceremonys keynote address. He was one of several speakers who appreciated the work of EB employees.

I know the hard work that goes into waking up, coming to work, in times of heat and times of cold, to make these ships, he said. Your role is as important as mine.

The Navy secretary said Columbia-Class submarines will be the cornerstone of our national security and represent 70% of the U.S. nuclear arsenal.

Adversaries know our silent service is always on patrol. They dont know where, Del Toro said. It is imperative that we must now modernize our fleet ... recapitalizing our sea-based deterrents as foundational to our national security. He thanked the American people for their investment and confidence in the ship-building effort.

He mistakenly and repeatedly referred to Delaware at the beginning of his remarks before self-correcting to Rhode Island, noting President Joe Biden was in Delaware recently.

The seriousness of the ceremony was balanced by a celebratory reception before and after the event that included donuts made to look like submarines. The standing room-only event, which was not open to the public, drew an estimated 1,500 people, according to General Dynamics Electric Boat.

Submarine Columbia (SSBN 826) is the lead ship in the newest class of ballistic submarines for the Navy, which will replace the Ohio class of Trident-missile nuclear submarines that are scheduled to retire from service at the end of the decade.

Connecticut U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney, D- 2nd District, also delivered remarks on Saturday.

The Columbia now is the largest single shipbuilding program in the Navys budget, he said. Its production facilities have transformed the skylines of Quonset Point, Groton and Newport News. The dramatic hiring in southern New England over the last decade has elevated Electric Boat to the position of the number one private employer in both Connecticut and Rhode Island, which will continue into the 2030s.

According to EB, the Navy awarded the company a $9.5 billion contract for the first two Columbia class ships, which includes construction, testing and associated design work. The company also was awarded funds for additional work in 2021 and this year for $314 million and $474 million, respectively.

Since 2015, Courtney has been working to finance the construction of the Columbia class. In 2016, he helped secure the inclusion of a provision in the year-end continuing resolution that provided a critical funding boost for the Columbia-Class submarine program.

In 2017, the Navy contract for detailed design of the Columbia program was awarded to EB. In 2019, the company broke ground on a new production facility designed expressly for Columbia-class sub construction.

The facility is part of a $1.8 billion investment General Dynamics is making to grow its submarine design and manufacturing infrastructure, a Saturday news release reads. Construction of the Columbia is roughly more than 20% complete.

EB was awarded the Columbia-class construction contract in 2020. In February and March of 2022, two votes in Congress allowed for the continued funding for the first Columbia-class submarine.

The March vote included a Courtney-authored provision providing $130 million to continue efforts to improve the nationwide supplier base, as well as $20 million to support training programs to help support expansion of the skilled submarine workforce to prepare shipyards for an increase in future submarine construction, according to Courtneys office.

The Columbia-class submarine program will be constructed in large part by the men and women at the EB shipyard in Groton, and will support jobs up and down the eastern CT manufacturing supply chain, Courtneys office added.

Keel laying is an ancient maritime term whose historic definition is the formal recognition of the start of a ships construction. ... This submarines construction hardly began today, Courtney said. In a sense, todays keel laying does in fact mark a start  these modules are now poised to be fitted out for final assembly and seaworthiness. He then paraphrased Winston Churchill, saying, Its not the beginning of the end, but it is perhaps the end of the beginning.

The Navy approached Electric Boat in 2007 about assisting in designing the Ohio-class replacement class. The first Columbia-class boat is scheduled to be deployed in 2030, with a service life that is expected to last until the 2080s.

The Columbia class of 12 ships will each carry 16 missiles, which in total will represent approximately 70 percent of the countrys nuclear arsenal, according to a description at Saturdays event from EB. At a length of 560 feet and displacing 20,810 tons, the Columbia will be the largest submarine ever built by the U.S. Its reactor will not require refueling during its lifetime of planned service, making the ship more cost effective to operate and maximizing time in deployment. In addition, the submarine will feature superior acoustical performance and state-of-the-art sensors to make it the most capable and quiet submarine ever built.

The Columbia ultimately will be assembled and tested at Electric Boat, and will be delivered to the Navy in 2027.

With the Columbia-class program, the Navy has entrusted Electric Boat to deliver the next 60 years of nuclear deterrence for our nation, continuing the companys legacy of delivering the finest, most technically advanced submarines in the world, EB President Kevin Graney said Saturday.

U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, D- R.I., also thanked those who built this majestic craft.

Popular Science just called you masters of steel, he said to the workers gathered throughout the facility. From the nuclear power plant within to the deep ocean pressure without, you craft the most capable ... vessels to ever sail the seas.

Holmes Norton, who took the opportunity during her remarks to express her support for D.C. statehood, had her initials welded onto a plate by Electric Boat welder Maria Betance-Pizzarro.

According to EB, Since submarines have round hulls and do not have a keel, the ceremonial plate will be mounted in a place of honor on the ship permanently.

s.spinella@theday.com

(c)2022 The Day (New London, Conn.)

Visit at www.theday.com

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SAN DIEGO (Tribune News Service)  Eighty years ago this weekend, in the Pacific Ocean 3,500 miles off San Diego, a military miracle unfolded.

The U.S. Navy ambushed the Japanese fleet at the Battle of Midway and altered the course of World War II.

Saturday night, aboard the USS Midway Museum in San Diego  a retired aircraft carrier named after the battle  the Navy commemorated the anniversary with an invitation-only ceremony that carried an undertone of sadness.

There arent many veterans still alive who were there.

Only three were on the guest list: Ervin Wendt, Charles Monroe and Jack Holder, although Holder had to bow out at the last minute. All three men were attached to airplane squadrons during the battle. Each is pushing 100 years old or is past it.

Two made it to the event to hear Vice Adm. Kenneth Whitesell, commander of Naval air forces, talk about the legacy of the battle and tie it to another anniversary: the centennial of the commissioning of the first U.S. aircraft carrier, the Langley.

Midway has long been celebrated as one of the Navys greatest victories, a combination of daring and combat skill, much of it improvised. Retired Navy Adm. John Richardson once told a San Diego audience that the full story of the battle trends toward the miraculous.

The four-day engagement has been the subject of multiple books, movies, museum exhibits and scholarly conferences that examine every facet of the battles planning, execution and aftermath.

Eighty years ago, the U.S. Navy entered into what would become the pivotal battle in the Pacific during World War II, Whitesell said during the evening ceremony. Not only did the U.S. Navy win that battle in Midway atoll, but it established its naval dominance. When we talk about the Midway or read about it in the history books, we often use terms like combat superiority, strategic excellence, but theres another concept we dont mention as much, which I believe was just as imperative at Midway. And that is our people and the faith we had in our people during that time.

Wendt, 106, likes to remind people that some things at play back then cant easily be analyzed.

It was a lot of good luck, too, he told Midway Currents, a museum publication, in an interview last summer.

The battle started June 4, 1942, six months after the devastating attack on Pearl Harbor that pushed the U.S. into World War II.

Japan had followed up with a string of conquests in the Pacific, and Adm. Isoroku Yamamoto readied an invasion of Midway, a strategic U.S.-held atoll about 1,300 miles northwest of Oahu.

What Yamamoto didnt know is that U.S. analysts had deciphered enough of the Japanese communications codes to recognize Midway as a coming target. Adm. Chester Nimitz organized an ambush.

Despite the element of surprise, Wendt wasnt confident about the U.S. chances.

We were outmatched in the air with their Zeros (fighter planes) against our TBDs (torpedo bombers), he told Midway Currents. We were outnumbered all the way across the board in ships and planes.

Wendt and Monroe, 99, were both attached to a torpedo bomber squadron, VT-8. Early in the battle, its planes were decimated in aerial combat. But those skirmishes unsettled the Japanese  where was the next wave coming from?  and left them vulnerable to subsequent attacks.

We caught the Japanese at the right time when they were taking torpedoes off their planes on the flight deck and replacing them with bombs, Monroe remembered, also in the Midway Currents interview. Although we lost our squadron first, we later caught them flat-footed.

By the time the fighting was over, Japan had lost more than 3,000 men, four aircraft carriers, one heavy cruiser and 250 planes. The U.S. paid a price, too  307 men, one carrier, one destroyer, 150 planes  but the tide was turned. U.S. forces were able to go on the offensive in the Pacific.

According to biographies provided by the Navy, all three Midway veterans saw additional combat at places such as Guadalcanal, Tarawa and the Solomon Islands. Holder, 100, also served in the European theater during the war.

Fast forward to present day, Whitesell reminded his audience that the threats the world faces today are not so different from those eight decades ago.

Today we find ourselves in a starkly similar environment to what we experienced 80 years ago as our country supports the Ukranian people against the unprovoked attack by Russia, while simultaneously facing a very real possibility of conflict in the Pacific, he said.

We still carry the fighting spirit of those heroes who fought at Midway.

Karl Zingheim, the USS Midway Museums historian, said its important to preserve the stories of those who participated in key battles, especially Midway.

A main lesson of Midway is that individuals matter, he said in an interview Friday afternoon. Its one of the few examples in the history of mechanized, industrial warfare where what someone does or fails to do can turn the course of the battle. You see that over and over at Midway. Its a legacy worth remembering.

Staff writer Lori Weisberg contributed to this report.

2022 The San Diego Union-Tribune.

Visit sandiegouniontribune.com.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
UNITED NATIONS  The U.N. Security Council approved a resolution Friday extending the authorization for countries and regional organizations to inspect vessels on the high seas off the coast of Libya suspected of violating the U.N. arms embargo on the troubled north African nation.

The vote on the French-sponsored resolution was 14-0, with Russia abstaining. The brief resolution extends the authorization for inspections for a year.

The monitoring effort has been carried out since March 2020 by a European Union mission called Operation Irini, the Greek word for "peace." The EU said at the start that it would have as "its core task the implementation of the U.N. arms embargo through the use of aerial, satellite and maritime assets."

Russia's U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia said Friday that when Irini started Russia hoped the inspections would contribute to reducing illegal arms trafficking "and therefore promote the long-awaited political settlement of Libya's protracted conflict."

"However, this never happened," he said, explaining that Operation Irini and its predecessor, Operation Sophia, have not had "any successful cases of interception of smuggled goods."

Nebenzia said Russia will monitor Irini's activities in the next 12 months and "we will focus on whether the operation is efficient in curbing the illegal arms flows and complies with the Law of The Sea."

In its first two years of activity, Operation Irini said it investigated more than 6,200 ships, conducted almost 250 visits (also known as friendly approaches) onboard merchant vessels, and 22 inspections. One illegal cargo ship was seized, preventing an illegal export of jet fuel for military aircrafts to Libya, it said.

Irini said it regularly monitors transport activities at 16 Libyan ports and oil facilities and 25 airports and landing strips.

Oil-rich Libya plunged into turmoil after a NATO-backed uprising in 2011 toppled dictator Moammar Gadhafi, who was later killed. It then became divided between rival governments  one in the east, backed by military commander Khalifa Hifter, and a U.N.-supported administration in the capital, Tripoli. Each side is supported by different militias and foreign powers.

In April 2019, Hifter and his forces, backed by Egypt and the United Arab Emirates, launched an offensive to try and capture Tripoli. His campaign collapsed after Turkey stepped up its military support for the U.N.-supported government with hundreds of troops and thousands of Syrian mercenaries.

An October 2020 cease-fire deal led to an agreement on a transitional government in early February 2021 and elections were scheduled for last Dec. 24 aimed at unifying the country. But they were canceled and the country now has rival governments with two Libyans claiming to be prime minister.
CAMP HUMPHREYS, South Korea  North Korea on Sunday launched eight short-range ballistic missiles off its eastern coast, according to the Souths Joint Chiefs of Staff.

The missiles were fired between 9:08 a.m. and 9:43 a.m. from four provinces in the country, the Joint Chiefs said in a text message to reporters. The missiles are estimated to have flown between 68 and 416 miles at altitudes of 16 to 56 miles. They are believed to have reached three to six times the speed of sound.

South Koreas military is prepared for additional missile tests and is maintaining a full readiness posture through consultation with U.S. forces, the Joint Chiefs said. It added that military leaders discussed the latest launch with U.S. Forces Koreas commander, Army Gen. Paul LaCamera, and confirmed the combined defense capability and readiness to immediately detect and intercept North Korean missiles.

U.S. Indo-Pacific Command said in a statement Sunday afternoon it was aware of the launches and that it assessed they did not pose an immediate threat to U.S. personnel or territory, or to our allies.

The U.S. commitment to the defense of the Republic of Korea and Japan remains ironclad, the statement said.

If the number of missiles is accurate, it would be the largest test event conducted by the regime, Michael Duitsman, a research associate at the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies, told Stars and Stripes by phone Sunday.

Duitsman said North Korea fired four missiles almost simultaneously in 2017. Experts said it may have been an exercise simulating an attack on U.S. forces stationed in Japan.

It has conducted multiple launches in a single event before, but its usually in much lower numbers, Duitsman said, adding that North Korea has launched a record high of 28 ballistic missiles so far this year.

The regime in recent months conducted several ballistic missile tests in pairs or in threes and also fired several rockets using multiple rocket launchers, Yang Uk, an associate research fellow at the Asan Institute for Policy Studies in Seoul, told Stars and Stripes on Sunday.

Uk said that based on the initial evidence, North Korea would have likely fired different types of missiles and characterized the launches as a military exercise, rather than a missile test.

The launches mark the 17th round of missile tests so far this year by North Korea and its first in June. The communist regime last conducted a test on May 25, hours after President Joe Biden left Asia after his first presidential trip to South Korea and Japan.

During his trip to Seoul, Biden and newly-elected South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol vowed to reinforce their alliance and proposed to start talks to expand the scale of joint military exercises between their militaries. Those large-scale exercises, which North Korea claims is a rehearsal for an invasion, were suspended in 2018 following the series of summits between then-President Donald Trump, then-South Korean President Moon Jae-in and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

Sundays launches came as officials assess that North Korea may soon conduct a nuclear test. Government officials from the U.S., South Korea and Japan cited mounting evidence that the regime has made preparations for its seventh nuclear test, its first since 2017.

The Biden administration said it continues to leave the door open for North Korea for negotiations without preconditions.
Tunis/Tunisia  The July 25 Harak, a movement supporting President Kais Saied, said, Thursday, at a press conference that it will organise awareness campaigns across the country during which it will seek to make the event of the July 25 Referendum a success.

All local (26) and regional (146) sections of the movement will be mobilised to make this political event a success, said Secretary-General of the movement Kamel Harrabi describing it as "decisive" for Tunisia.

If the referendum fails, Tunisia will not be able to establish a new Republic. Tunisia will return to the period before July 25, 2021, he said.

Harrabi reminded of the serious political challenges Tunisia was facing before July 25, 2021 and "the black decade" experienced by Tunisian citizens.

This situation triggered an unprecedented political crisis in the country, he underlined.

Today, we will work to encourage Tunisians to contribute positively and actively to the success of the referendum and vote massively on July 25, he added.

The July 25 Referendum will be a success, Harrabi said, adding that most Tunisians "are looking for a political change."
STOCKHOLM  The United States prepared Saturday to launch a sprawling naval exercise in the Baltic Sea with Sweden, Finland and 13 NATO allies, a visible sign of an expanding partnership as Stockholm and Helsinki apply to join the military alliance following Russias invasion of Ukraine.

The Baltic Operations exercise involves more than 40 warships and has been held annually for decades, but will shift this year to include more involvement from Finland and Sweden, said Army Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He visited Stockholm on Saturday in a show of support for Swedens membership bid, one day after a similar stop in Finland.

The two countries have long partnered with the U.S. military but resisted applying to join NATO until last month out of concerns that it would anger Moscow. Following Russias invasion of Ukraine, however, that changed with significant shifts in public opinion in favor of joining the military alliance in both countries.

The new dynamic was evident as the 843-foot amphibious warship USS Kearsarge sat in a narrow waterway running through Stockholm while packed with attack helicopters and other aircraft and more than 2,000 U.S. Marines and sailors.

The United States has never moved such a large warship into this capital city of nearly 1 million people, Milley said. Doing so created a spectacle for tourists snapping pictures and challenges for U.S. troops and Swedish personnel who squeezed the ship into the city.

That was a big evolution for us to pull in, said Tera Geoffrey, a lieutenant junior grade assigned to the ship. Our depth beneath the keel sometimes was less than 10 feet.

Milley told reporters aboard the Kearsarge that President Joe Biden and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin have asked the Pentagon to develop new options to modestly increase American military involvement in Sweden where it is appropriate. Meanwhile, other long-scheduled operations like the naval exercise will continue.

Were looking at things we can do on the ground with either the Marines or Army, things we can do with Special Forces, things we can do with the air or maritime forces, Milley said.

While the NATO alliance is designed to be defensive, Sweden and Finland joining would further enclose the Baltic Sea with NATO countries, something that would be very problematic for Russia militarily and very advantageous to NATO, Milley said. The Swedish military is not large, Milley said, but it has an excellent navy, modern equipment and well-trained ground forces.

The membership applications come as a NATO ally, Turkey, threatens to block Finland and Sweden from joining the alliance, citing the presence in their countries of militants from the PKK, a Kurdish separatist group that the U.S. and Turkish governments have labeled terrorist organizations.

Swedish Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson, appearing alongside Milley, said that the Finnish and Swedish governments will continue to discuss Turkeys concerns but that Sweden has taken a very clear stance against terrorists.

Theres no question about Swedens position in that respect, she said. As Russia threatened and ultimately launched its invasion, the Pentagon expanded its number of forces in Europe from about 80,000 to more than 100,000  including Marines and sailors at sea. Maj. Gen. Frank Donovan, who oversees personnel from the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, of Camp Lejeune, N.C., said that the unit has in the past few months visited Iceland, Norway, Estonia, Greece and Turkey.

Were able to tailor the force for what the task is, and were very maneuverable, Donovan said.

The Marines have deployed with newly adapted radar initially designed to help fishermen find a potential catch, Donovan said. It has been adapted to be placed on islands or shorelines to track the movement of vessels up to 60 miles away, with data tracked on a tablet device, he said.
HELSINKI  NATO kicked off a nearly two-week U.S.-led naval exercise on the Baltic Sea on Sunday with more than 7,000 sailors, airmen and marines from 16 nations, including two aspiring to join the military alliance, Finland and Sweden.

The annual BALTOPS naval exercise, initiated in 1972, is not held in response to any specific threat. But the military alliance said that "with both Sweden and Finland participating, NATO is seizing the chance in an unpredictable world to enhance its joint force resilience and strength" together with two Nordic aspirant nations.

Finland and Sweden both have a long history of military non-alignment before their governments decided to apply to join NATO in May, a direct result of Russia's Feb. 24 invasion of Ukraine. Over the past years, Moscow has repeatedly warned Helsinki and Stockholm against joining the Western military alliance and warned of retaliatory measures if they did.

Ahead of the naval drill, which involved 45 vessels and 75 aircraft, the top U.S military official said in Sweden  the host of the BALTOPS 22 exercise  that it was particularly important for NATO to show support to the governments in Helsinki and Stockholm.

"It is important for us, the United States, and the other NATO countries to show solidarity with both Finland and Sweden in this exercise," U.S. Gen. Mark Milley, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said Saturday during a news conference aboard the large amphibious warship USS Kearsarge, which was moored in central Stockholm.

Milley, speaking with the Swedish Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson, stressed that the Baltic Sea is a strategically important body of water  "one of the great seaways of the world."

He said from Moscow's perspective, Finland and Sweden joining NATO will be "very problematic" and leave Russia in a difficult military position as the Baltic Sea's coastline would be almost completely encircled by NATO members, except for Russia's Baltic exclave of Kaliningrad and the Russian city of St. Petersburg and its surrounding areas.

Turkey, a NATO member that has had good relations with Russia, has objected to Finland and Sweden joining the military alliance, citing their alleged support for a Kurdish group that Turkey labels as terrorist. NATO's chief has been trying to resolve the dispute.

The United States has never before moved such a large warship as the 843-foot USS Kearsarge in the Swedish capital, where it sailed through narrow passages in the Stockholm archipelago, Milley said.

As NATO's close partners, Finland and Sweden have participated in the naval drill since the mid-1990s.

BALTOPS 22 is scheduled to end in the German port of Kiel on June 17.
ZHYTOMYR, Ukraine  As soon as they had finished burying a veteran colonel killed by Russian shelling, the cemetery workers readied the next hole. Inevitably, given how quickly death is felling Ukrainian troops on the front lines, the empty grave won't stay that way for long.

Col. Oleksandr Makhachek left behind a widow, Elena, and their daughters Olena and Myroslava-Oleksandra. In the first 100 days of war, his grave was the 40th dug in the military cemetery in Zhytomyr, 90 miles west of the capital, Kyiv.

He was killed May 30 in the Luhansk region of eastern Ukraine where the fighting is raging. Nearby, the burial notice on the also freshly dug grave of Viacheslav Dvornitskyi says he died May 27. Other graves also showed soldiers killed within days of each other  on May 10, 9th, 7th and 5th. And this is just one cemetery, in just one of Ukraine's cities, towns and villages laying soldiers to rest.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said this week that Ukraine is now losing 60 to 100 soldiers each day in combat. By way of comparison, just short of 50 American soldiers died per day on average in 1968 during the Vietnam War's deadliest year for U.S. forces.

Among the comrades-in-arms who paid respects to the 49-year-old Makhachek at his funeral on Friday was Gen. Viktor Muzhenko, the Ukrainian Armed Forces' chief of general staff until 2019. He warned that losses could worsen.

"This is one of the critical moments in the war, but it is not the peak," Muzhenko told The Associated Press. "This is the most significant conflict in Europe since World War II. That explains why the losses are so great. In order to reduce losses, Ukraine now needs powerful weapons that match or even surpass Russian weaponry. This would enable Ukraine to respond in kind."

Concentrations of Russian artillery are causing many of the casualties in the eastern regions that Moscow has focused on since its initial invasion launched Feb. 24 failed to take Kyiv.

Retired Lt. Gen. Ben Hodges, the former commanding general of U.S. Army forces in Europe, described the Russian strategy as a "medieval attrition approach" and said that until Ukraine gets promised deliveries of U.S., British and other weapons to destroy and disrupt Russian batteries, "these kinds of casualties are going to continue."

"This battlefield is so much more lethal than what we all became accustomed to over the 20 years of Iraq and Afghanistan, where we didn't have numbers like this," he said in an AP phone interview.

"That level of attrition would include leaders, sergeants," he added. "They are a lot of the brunt of casualties because they are the more exposed, constantly moving around trying to do things."

Makhachek, a military engineer, led a detachment that laid minefields and other defenses, said Col. Ruslan Shutov, who attended the funeral of his friend of more than 30 years.

"Once the shelling began, he and a group hid in a shelter. There were four people in his group, and he told them to hide in the dugout. He hid in another. Unfortunately, an artillery shell hit the dugout where he was hiding."

Ukraine had about 250,000 men and women in uniform before the war and was in the process of adding another 100,000. The government hasn't said how many have died in more than 14 weeks of fighting.

Nobody really knows the number of Ukrainian civilians who have been killed or how many combatants have died on either side. Claims of casualties by government officials  who may sometimes exaggerate or lowball their figures for public relations reasons  are all but impossible to verify.

Western analysts estimate far higher Russian military casualties, in the many thousands. Still, as Ukraine's losses mount, the grim mathematics of war require that it find replacements. With a population of 43 million, it has manpower.

"The problem is recruiting, training and getting them on the front line," said retired U.S. Marine Col. Mark Cancian, a senior adviser at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington.

"If the war is now moving into a long-term attrition struggle, then you have to build systems to get replacements," he said. "This has been a difficult moment for every army in combat."

Muzhenko, the Ukrainian general, said Zelenskyy's admission of high casualties would further galvanize Ukrainian morale and that more Western weaponry would help turn the tide.

"The more Ukrainians know about what is happening at the front, the more the will to resist will grow," he said. "Yes, the losses are significant. But with the help of our allies, we can minimize and reduce them and move on to successful offensives. This will require powerful weapons."

___

Yuras Karmanau contributed to this report from Lviv.
RIGA, Latvia  For Russias urban middle class, the war on Ukraine has messed up plans, ruined longed-for vacations and stripped away joys like shopping for a favorite foreign clothing brand, turning the key in a new Japanese car, even biting into a Big Mac.

As the war drags on, many yearn for life to go back to normal, before prices went crazy and foreign companies quit the country over Russias invasion. But these Russians are equally sure that President Vladimir Putin will keep on fighting until he wins, because thats what he always does.

After convincing the majority of the population that the war was necessary to liberate Ukrainians from Nazis, state television propagandists are now doggedly preparing Russians for a long war, ominously warning that it might end in nuclear war.

In Ukraine, that means more civilian casualties, bombed houses and dozens of soldiers killed daily defending the countrys east.

Russian hardships may be trivial by contrast, but the deadening gloom of a long war worries the Kremlin, according to analysts, because of the challenge of dragging the population along as sanctions bite, businesses retrench, prices continue to surge, and it dawns on people that life may never go back to the way it was.

But the old Kremlin playbook, accusing the West of plans to gobble up Russia, is working so far. Denis Volkov of independent polling agency Levada-Center said the latest polling for April showed almost half of Russians unconditionally support the war and about 30% support it with reservations, with 19% opposed. Many in focus groups saw it as an existential confrontation with the West, not Ukraine.

People explain that a significant part of the world is against us and its only Putin who hopes to hold onto Russia, otherwise we would be eaten up completely. To them it is Russia that is defending itself, he said.

The conflict, however, is taking a toll on Russians like Marina, 57, a language teacher, whose friends are so weary of the war, they avoid the topic. She succeeded in changing the minds of a few friends and relatives who supported the war. But in general, it seems everyone is sick and tired of the war or special operation. People have their own problems and the main problem is survival, especially with the rising prices.

Marina acknowledged that few Russians are opposed to the war and most are finding a way to get by somehow. But she added: This somehow is becoming boring. Most people got tired of it. I want to travel. Others want to be able to plan. We want to get back to our ordinary lives.

Marina cant help dreaming wistfully of her old life  just a few months ago. I want to be able to watch Western movies on Netflix and shop at Uniqlo. I want to travel to Europe on affordable and reliable airlines. I want to be part of the world and not an outcast, she said.

Many people, still in denial, are struggling to adapt, said Grigory Yudin, professor of political philosophy at the Moscow School of Social and Economic Sciences. The natural question for Russians is not whether I support it or not  nobody asks you, actually  but how do I adapt to this?

People want certainty about their incomes, travel plans and mortgages. Part of the Moscow elite, including middle-ranking bureaucrats who feel they are Europeans, are not happy about the war, he said, but tend to believe Putin will fight until he wins.

I think the majority of Russians still honestly believe that this is going on with military success, or at least this is what people want to believe, Yudin said. He added: The more-educated people who are more informed and tend to consume information from different sources are not that certain about that. They have significant doubts.

Volkov said the latest polling showed interest in watching news about the war is beginning to wane, with people in focus groups wishing their lives could go back to the way they were.

The best scenario is for this to end as soon as possible and then we hope things will go back to normal, said Ksenia, 50, a bookkeeper at a firm that sells foreign materials and has been hard hit by Western sanctions.

Most of her work colleagues began strongly supporting the war, but lately they avoid the subject, except to complain that ordinary people in Russia always pay the price of government decisions.

My colleagues have finally started to realize that things are not great. In general, we try not to discuss it because we start to fight. Theyre saying, We didnt start this war and now we have to pay.

Her plan to vacation in the United States or Italy this summer is ruined because she cannot get a visa.

Now I feel as if theres no future and its very depressing. She ached when McDonalds golden arches were removed not for any love of the burgers or fries, but for the idea it represented.

Im really upset about McDonalds, and I really mean it. McDonalds has always been a symbol of freedom for me. I remember when the first McDonalds opened in Moscow, she said, recalling the queues in the 1990s, months before the Soviet Union collapsed. It felt like the light at the end of the tunnel.

For Ksenia and friends opposed to the war, the worst part is thinking of the Ukrainian civilians, including children, being killed and the women raped by Russian soldiers.

I can survive without certain clothes. And I think I can survive without Western movies. But the main problem for me is that now Russians are outcasts, with whom nobody will want to shake hands. Psychologically, its really hard for me to feel that Im unwanted everywhere.

Viktor, a 35-year-old carpenter, says his small business has lost most of its clients, as theyve been forced to economize. He cannot finish building his own house because he says prices for building materials doubled while his income halved.

Viktor thought war would rage about two months. Now it will take years, and its a disaster. Its not only losing lives. In the years to come we will be living in poverty and we will be hated again like the fascists in Germany in World War II  like we are the new fascists.

But 43-year-old Andrei from Moscow sees the war as Gods plan and believes Russians are willing to make sacrifices to see it through. A yoga-loving, vegetarian computer programmer, he is not the typical elderly, conservative Putin supporter. He gets his news from one pro-Kremlin blogger and shares a common Russian conviction that Western news of Russian war crimes is fake. He declined to give his surname.

The idea is to remove fascism from Ukraine and to return the civilians who want to live in the U.S.S.R., like before the 90s, he said, echoing the propaganda.

Right now we dont feel any meaningful impact from sanctions, he added, although many of his friends in IT have fled for Armenia and elsewhere, and he can no longer afford to buy a beloved MacBook computer. Nor can he purchase the new Mazda 6 he had his eyes on; he had been hoping pay about 2 million rubles  five months salary  but the price went up to 3 million.

Andrei is convinced that Russia will win the war in a year or so, prices will fall and Apple products will find their way to Russia via the black market. Until then, he says hell make sacrifices (but not volunteer to fight.)

Western people like comfort, they need comfort, he said. Russian people may have comfort, or they may not. This is not a problem.

Political analyst and journalist Fyodor Krasheninnikov said many Russians hope that Ukraine would soon capitulate to Russian military power. The mood in Russia now is that We want this to be over as soon as possible because we just cant live like this any longer. We want to get back to normal life, he said.

Its not that people really like what Putin does, he continued. No, but they feel frustration and depression because they cannot change anything. Its like bad weather. They realize that its going to rain every day. But what can they do about it?
ISLAMABAD  Pakistan's military says security forces killed seven militants in two different operations near the Afghan border on Sunday.

Five militants were killed in raid on a hideout in the Jani Khel area of Bannu district  the gateway to North Waziristan, they said in a statement. Two other militants were killed in a shootout in a tribal district of North Waziristan.

Security forces seized arms and ammunition from both areas, and said the militants had been involved in attacks on security forces in recent months.

North Waziristan and its surroundings were a militant sanctuary for years until a massive military operation to clear the area in 2014. Militants still show their presence by sporadically attacking forces there.
WASHINGTON  Rep. Liz Cheney, R-Wyo., said there was an extremely broad and extremely well-organized conspiracy by then-President Donald Trump and his allies to overturn the results of the 2020 election  and that the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol was just one instance in an ongoing threat to democracy.

We are not in a situation where former president Trump has expressed any sense of remorse about what happened, Cheney, the vice chair of the House select committee investigating the Jan. 6 insurrection, told CBS Newss Robert Costa.

We are, in fact, in a situation where he continues to use even more extreme language, frankly, than the language that caused the attack, she added. And so, people must pay attention. People must watch, and they must understand how easily our democratic system can unravel if we dont defend it.

Cheneys remarks, which aired Sunday, come days before the committee begins prime-time, televised hearings throughout June that will feature live witnesses, taped interviews with key figures  including Trump family members  and previously unseen video footage. The hearings mark the culmination of an inquiry that has involved more than 1,000 interviews and reviews of more than 125,000 records.

Cheney said she felt certain that the evidence laid out in the hearings would compel Americans to pay attention, even as she suggested that many of her fellow Republicans have pledged their allegiance to Trump over the country.

I think there is absolutely a cult of personality around Donald Trump, Cheney told Costa. And I think that, you know, the majority of Republicans across the country dont want to see our system unravel. They understand how important it is to protect and defend the Constitution.

Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., another member of the Jan. 6 select committee, said the panel hoped the hearings would counter Trumps continued propagation of the baseless assertion  what some of his critics call the big lie  that widespread voter fraud cost him the 2020 election. Schiff also said there was a great deal the American public had not yet seen about the Jan. 6 attack.

But perhaps most important is the public hasnt seen it woven together, how one thing led to another, how one line of effort to overturn the election led to another and ultimately led to terrible violence, the first non-peaceful transfer of power in our history, Schiff said on CBS Newss Face the Nation on Sunday. So we want to tell that comprehensive narrative, and were aiming at [an audience], frankly, that still has an open mind about these facts.

It is unclear who remains open-minded about the events of Jan. 6, with polls showing little bipartisan agreement over the insurrection. Several high-profile Republicans have refused to cooperate with the committee, with varied consequences. The Justice Department announced Friday that it had indicted former Trump adviser Peter Navarro but would not pursue charges against former Trump chief of staff Mark Meadows and former communications chief Daniel Scavino Jr.

Schiff said Sunday that he could not confirm or deny which witnesses would appear before the committee during the public hearings and called the Justice Departments decision not to pursue charges against Meadows and Scavino a grave disappointment that could impede the panels work.

I can say that certainly one of the themes that we will be fleshing out is the fact that in advance of the 6th, that there was an understanding of the propensity for violence that day, of the participation of white nationalist groups, of the effect that the continued propagation of this big lie to rile up the country and rile up the presidents base was likely to lead to violence, he said.

For the few Republicans who have tried to hold Trump accountable for his role in the attack, the blowback from their party has been swift. Of the 10 Republicans who voted to impeach Trump after Jan. 6, four are leaving Congress rather than seek reelection. Others face tough primary challenges.

Rep. Tom Rice of South Carolina, who was one of those 10 Republican lawmakers who voted to impeach Trump, acknowledged Sunday that he could lose his seat over the vote but said it would still be worth it. Only if Trump apologized, Rice said, would he consider supporting the former president again.

Rice said his impeachment vote wasnt that hard after he thought about Trumps inactivity on the day of the insurrection, including putting the lives of then-Vice President Mike Pence and Pences family members at risk and watching police officers defending the Capitol being beaten for hours.

The more I read about that, the more I learned about  it was clear to me what I had to do, Rice said. I was livid. Im livid today about it. Now, I took an oath to protect the Constitution, and I did it then and I would do it again tomorrow.

The Washington Posts Jacqueline Alemany, Josh Dawsey and Amy Gardner contributed to this report.
After the mass shooting at a Texas elementary school, schools around the country pledged to boost security measures and increased the presence of law enforcement on campus  partly to reassure parents and students.

But police inside schools can make some students more uneasy, not less. Especially for Black students and other students of color, their personal experiences with policing can leave them feeling unsafe and alienated from school when they see officers on campus.

High school senior Malika Mobley has seen three different school resource officers patrolling the campus in Raleigh, North Carolina. Once on the way home from school, Mobley saw officers detain a visibly distraught classmate and push the student into the back of a police vehicle.

"They were crying, 'Why are you doing this to me? I didn't do anything,'" said Mobley, co-president of Wake County Black Student Coalition. "I was just forced to stand there and couldn't do anything."

Since 2020, the student group has advocated for eliminating police officers from school buildings in favor of investing in counselors and support staff for students.

"We don't see police presence as part of the solution," Mobley said. "If you really think about why police don't make us safer, you can draw connections to all types of tragedies that impact the most marginalized among us."

Police officers have a regular presence at schools across the country in recent decades, often in the form of school resource officers, who are tasked with building relationships with young people to promote trust of law enforcement, providing security, and enforcing laws. Critics say having armed police on campus often results in Black students being disproportionately arrested and punished, leading to what they call the school-to-prison pipeline.

Researchers have found that Black students report feeling less safe around police officers than their white peers and that officers in predominantly Black school districts were more likely to view students themselves to be threats.

Black students and other students of color also are disproportionately likely to have negative interactions with police in schools, ranging from referrals to law enforcement to being arrested or restrained, said Katherine Dunn, director of the Opportunity to Learn program at the Advancement Project. Since 2007, the Advancement Project has documented at least 200 instances of officers at schools assaulting students, she said.

"It shows all the physical harms that young people experience by police," she said. "It's also the experience of being degraded and made to feel like a criminal because you have to walk down the hallway to your class with several armed cops, who are not there for your safety, who you see arrest your friends, assault your friends."

In 2018, after the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Fla., the state Legislature passed laws mandating public schools to have either law enforcement or armed personnel present on campuses.

A study of the law's impact by F. Chris Curran, a University of Florida professor, found the expanded police presence was followed by an increase in school arrests and the number of reported behavioral incidents. He said there are many factors to consider in deciding the role police play in schools.

"I'd like to see that conversation include thoughtful considerations of potential benefits, decreasing certain kinds of behaviors, but also the potential unintended consequences, if that's increasing the likelihood students are arrested or potentially increasing racial disparities in discipline and arrest rates," Curran said.

While there are examples of school resource officers who have intervened in incidents of gun violence, Curran said, the presence of law enforcement does not always guarantee that shootings or other violence won't occur, or that the officer would be immediately effective at stopping the perpetrator and minimizing casualties.

In a statement issued this week on best practices for school security in the wake of the Uvalde, Texas, shooting, the National Association of School Resource Officers emphasized the importance of having "a carefully selected, specifically trained SRO on its campus whenever school is in session."

The nonprofit group has rejected criticism that officers contribute to a school-to-prison pipeline. Officers who follow its best practices, it says, do not arrest students for disciplinary issues that would be handled ordinarily by educators.

As elsewhere around the country last week, the police presence was increased outside schools across North Carolina to provide reassurance to families in the wake of the Uvalde, Texas, shooting.

Wake County schools have 75 school resource officers, drawn from several local law enforcement agencies.

The Wake County Black Student Coalition's campaign to remove the officers stemmed partly from student accounts of bad experiences with officers, including a 2017 incident where a school resource officer was filmed picking up a Black girl and slamming her to the ground, said Chalina Morgan-Lopez, a high school senior who is co-president of the student group.

"I think it's a reasonable response to want more officers in schools, especially from people who genuinely do feel protected by law enforcement, even though that's not my lived experience," Morgan-Lopez said. "But I think people need to take into account  that officers do in fact do more harm than they do good."

Last summer the school system made several changes to its school resource officer program, including a new process for fielding grievances involving officers and adjustments to training to prepare them better for the school environment, said Lisa Luten, a spokesperson for the school system. The review was based on community feedback the district sought in the wake of the killing of George Floyd and the resurgence of the Black Lives Matter movement, Luten said.

"This is not a new conversation for us," she said. "That certainly brought it back to light."

The Associated Press' reporting around issues of race and ethnicity is supported in part by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute's Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
MONCKS CORNER, S.C.  The South Carolina Department of Veterans' Affairs is close to getting land for a new veterans cemetery from a public utility.

Santee Cooper would donate 90 acres near its headquarters in Moncks Corner in Berkeley County under a plan approved May 24 by the state legislative panel that oversees capital improvement projects, The State reported.

South Carolina has one of the nation's largest per capita veteran populations, Veterans' Affairs Secretary William Grimsley said. It has three national veterans cemeteries and one state veterans cemetery, and is looking to establish at least one more state veterans burial ground within the next decade, Grimsley said.

The state is home to about 400,000 veterans, nearly half of whom are 65 or older, and eight major U.S. military installations. While the veteran population in South Carolina is expected to decline somewhat in the decades ahead, the state should retain a higher concentration of veterans than most others, an advantage for securing federal dollars.

One or more new cemeteries would further expand the landscape of veterans services in South Carolina, which recently opened veterans nursing homes in Florence and Cherokee counties and has three more long-term care facilities for veterans in the works.

Over the past year, the veterans department has been scouting potential burial sites throughout the state and is attempting to get land donations in several locations, Grimsley said.

To qualify, a site must be easily accessible, have at least 60 acres of usable land with potential for expansion, and be located more than 75 miles from any other veterans cemetery, among other conditions.

Once Veterans Affairs owns the land, the agency can apply for a grant from the National Cemetery Administration to cover development, construction and future burial costs, while the state would be responsible for day-to-day operations, staffing and landscaping, Grimsley said.

If Veterans Affairs does not receive federal grant approval, ownership reverts to the donor.

Local officials are talking with owners of sites in Bamberg and Union counties about possible donation, Grimsley said.

The Moncks Corner site is located along the U.S. Highway 52 bypass overlooking the Tailrace Canal and close to the historic sites of Fort Fairlawn, Stony Landing and the ruins of Biggin Church.

Santee Cooper acquired the land in 1991 but subsequently determined it did not need the property and has authorized its donation to Veterans Affairs.

"Santee Cooper is honored to have the opportunity to play a role in bringing a veteran's cemetery to our community," the utility's general counsel wrote to the state's Joint Bond Review Committee. The land, which currently serves as a recreation area that includes an off-road bicycle trail, has been appraised at nearly $2.2 million.

More than 45,000 veterans and their family members are buried in South Carolina's four existing veterans cemeteries, located in Beaufort, Florence, Anderson and at Fort Jackson in Richland County, Grimsley said.

Beaufort, Florence and Fort Jackson are national cemeteries, accepting veterans from anywhere in the country. State cemeteries limit burial to South Carolina residents and service members who were stationed in the Palmetto State.

In addition to veterans, the cemeteries will accept one immediate family member.

All four of South Carolina's veterans cemeteries are active and accepting new burials, but the Beaufort and Florence national cemeteries, which were established in the 19th century, are expected to be at capacity within the next two decades, Grimsley said.

M.J. "Dolly" Cooper Veterans Cemetery in Anderson, which opened in 2007, should remain active in its current configuration until about 2050. Fort Jackson National Cemetery, which opened in 2009, won't be full until 2070, he said.
Bay of Plenty rugby fans are in for a treat this Monday, June 6, as the Black Ferns take on old foes Australia, and Canada battle the USA at Tauranga Domain in what is a significant year for womens rugby.

While getting a taste of the action that will be on display at Octobers Rugby World Cup here in NZ, the Pacific Four Series fixture on the public holiday is the first time Kiwi fans can witness the Black Ferns in an international test match on home soil since August 2019.

The Black Ferns hosted an opening training at Mount Maunganui College on Tuesday, then some players headed to Te Puke Intermediate Wednesday to meet students.

New Zealand is hosting the 2022 Pacific Four Series on three days; on June 6 at Tauranga Domain, June 12 at The Trusts Arena in Waitakere and June 18 at Semenoff Stadium in Whangarei.

Contested by NZ, Australia, Canada and USA, the annual international competition acts as one of the principle annual qualification routes for the top tier of WXV from 2023  and will serve as crucial preparation for Rugby World Cup 2021, which kicks off October 8 in Auckland.

Black Ferns director of rugby Wayne Smith says the Black Ferns are looking forward to vital test match rugby. Its been a long time since we have played tests in NZ. We know how important it is for us as a group to get these tests but also how important it is for NZ as a country to have the opportunity to get excited about womens rugby in the build-up to the World Cup. The World Rugby-funded competition soft-launched with Canada versus USA last November. Pandemic challenges meant Australia and NZ were unable to participate in year one of the series  as such, the full four-team format debut this June 6 creates a bumper schedule of competitive fixtures.

World Rugby chief executive Alan Gilpin says his organisation is committed to increasing the competitiveness of the womens game at the elite level through high-performance competitions.

This is an incredibly exciting year for womens rugby, especially for New Zealanders, and we look forward to what will be two great showcases of the womens game in the country.

Broadcast live in NZ on Spark Sport, the Pacific Four Series is on June 6, at Tauranga Domain. Kick-off times are Canada v USA at 12.15pm; then New Zealand v Australia at 2.45pm.
Taurangas Special Olympics Ten Pin Bowling team is looking for another volunteer coach co-ordinator to help them realise their dream in less than 200 days at the National Summer Games.

With long-time co-ordinator Raewyn Judson retiring, the team has found one coach co-ordinator but really needs a second to provide support to the team in the lead-up to The Freemasons New Zealand Special Olympics National Summer Games in Hamilton.

Postponed last year due to the pandemic, this December 8-12 the pinnacle sports event for people with intellectual disabilities will go ahead with more than 1500 Special Olympics athletes and coaches set to compete.

Raewyn says the team of up to 51 bowlers practise every Saturday morning at Tenpin Tauranga on 13th Ave.

Everybody in the team has an intellectual disability, and has to have an intellectual disability to be a Special Olympian.

Our players come from all over Western Bay of Plenty. We start in February and play every Saturday morning at Tenpin Tauranga  if its available  through to December, says Raewyn.

We have two groups. One group is for those still mastering the sport; the other is for those with more skillset. This team plays three games each Saturday and attend tournaments and suchlike.

Raewyn has four teams from group two heading to Hamilton this December  16 bowlers in total. With a prescribed ratio of one support person per four competitors, Raewyn needs four volunteers to attend with the team.

Thats why a second coach co-ordinator would be so valuable. Thats the crucial part; having those people when we want to travel.

Raewyn says a new coach co-ordinator only needs to commit time.

You can come in cold  you dont need to know ten pin rules. When my son started I didnt know a thing about ten pin bowling and I learnt a helluva lot.

Wed love to have anybody and especially men; the majority of the bowlers are men. We do have some ladies, but two-thirds are men.

Raewyn says players range in age from 70 down to 18.

The social interaction these people get out of the sport is tremendous. And for some that live in residential houses, this is the only outside social activity that they get to do that they choose to do  and it is physical.

Raewyn says strong friendships have formed between players as well.

Some bowlers have been there for 10-12 years or more.

Raewyn says anyone interested in helping the team just needs to come along, be keen to learn, have a good attitude and enjoy being part of the activity.

We will teach you how to help out.

If interested, phone Raewyn on 07 549 2259 or club secretary Keryn on 0274388642. Or email: tauranga@specialolympics.org.nz
Khartoum  The head of the Higher Council of Beja and Chieftain of Hadandawa Tribes, Sayed Mohamed Al-Amin Tirik, has denied what was reported by the media and social media platforms about the closure of the Council to the Sudanese Mineral Resources Company and mining companies in the Red Sea State.

Tirik said in a video statement that the Sudanese Mineral Resources Company has not been closed and there is no intention to close it, indicating that the Sudanese Company is one of the institutions in eastern Sudan and cannot be closed.
Despite getting knocked off his bike in the recent New Zealand qualifiers, Tauranga youngster Charlie Withington got back up and made the cut for the upcoming 2022 UCI BMX Racing World Championships in France.

Charlie started out on a balance bike in the striders club at Tauranga BMX Club when he was just three years old and moved onto competing in BMX when he was five.

Now aged nine, Charlie has been doing exceptionally well on BMX tracks  both nationally and internationally.

Last year he was ranked New Zealand number 3 in his age division and the year before he was ranked NZ number 2 in his age-group, says Charlies mum Amanda.

Last month he went to Australia to the Oceania BMX Racing Championships and finished fifth in his age group there.

At this years national qualifiers at the Hamilton BMX Club from March 12-13 Charlie placed New Zealand number 8 in the 10-year-old division  and the race did not come without a challenge for securing his world champ spot.

He had a pretty gnarly crash in the final but he got up and finished, says Amanda, who says the top eight ranked riders in each age-group at BMXNZ national championships get to represent NZ at the world championships.

Friendly competition

Despite the odd crash and tumble, Charlie says he loves BMX because you get to make new friends and you get to be super competitive. Amanda says Charlie has friends all over NZ because of the travel they do during the BMX competing season.

Charlie may make some international friends in July too. The 2022 UCI BMX Racing World Championships takes place in France from July 26-31. With five days of competition, 3000 athletes from more than 45 countries will race.

Amandas words of wisdom for her son and his racing is to: Just focus and to get as good a placing as you can, and have fun!

Tauranga BMX Club members Charlie Withington and Greg Hughes head to France in July for the BMX world champs. Photo: John Borren.

Talented club

Another rider from Tauranga BMX club thats made it to world championships in France is fellow Tauranga BMX Club member Greg Hughes. The 51-year-old is number one in New Zealand for his division  the 50-plus Male Cruiser Class.

Riding off and on since he was 13, Greg says: I still get a buzz from the adrenaline even though its a short race.

Preparing for racing in France, Greg has been keeping an eye on the competition.

I have been watching the British and European rounds and taking notes of who I will be competing against in my age group and then obviously sussing them out when Im there, says Greg.

The Tauranga BMX Club is holding a pop-up fundraiser ride this Sunday, June 5, to support their BMX champions heading to France.

The event is at the clubs park base at 280 Cambridge Rd, Tauranga. Entry is $15 per rider. Registration is 9am-10am, with racing to start 11am.

For details visit: https://www.facebook.com/Taurangabmxclub

Charlie also has a Givealittle page  donate at: https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/help-charlie-ride-at-the-2022-bmx-world
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President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has signed a Decree conferring the honorary title of 'Honored Engineer' to a group of workers of the country's melioration and water management, Azernews reports.




According to local reports, the attackers entered a Catholic church in Ondo state and opened fire on worshippers.

Gunmen have killed several worshippers in a Catholic church in southwestern Nigeria, the state governor said on Sunday.

Anakunrin Akeredolu, the governor of the Ondo state, condemned the "vile and satanic" attack on the St. Francis Church, vowing to capture the assailants and achieve justice.

"I urge our people to remain calm and vigilant. Do not take laws into your hands. I have spoken to the heads of the security agencies. I have equally been assured that security operatives would be deployed to monitor and restore normalcy to Owo kingdom," Akeredolu tweeted.

Adelegbe Timileyin, representative of Ondo's Owo area in the country's lower legislative chamber, said the church's presiding priest was abducted during the attack. The lawmaker also put the death toll at over 50 people.

What happened during the attack?

The assailants stormed the church in the midst of the Sunday service, opening fire at the worshippers, local media reported. Some explosives were also used, but initial reports suggest the majority of injuries were due to gunshots.

The victims reportedly included members of the congregation, as well as children.

The identities of the perpetrators, who fled the scene shortly after the attack, have yet to be confirmed. Local reports have pointed the finger at Fulani Herdsmen, suggesting members of the nomadic group carried out the attack to send a message to the governor.

Akeredolu's recent policies have been seen as restrictive to the herdsmen's activities in the state of Ondo.

Although Nigeria has witnessed acts of violence in recent years, such incidents have mostly centred in the northwest of Africa's most populous country. The southwest -- and Ondo state in particular -- is regarded as a place of relative peace and calm.

more to come...

rmt/rt (Reuters, AP)
press release

Speaking notes delivered by Police Minister General Bheki Cele (MP) at the occasion of the release of the Quarter Four Crime Statistics 2021/2022 hosted in Pretoria on Friday 3 June 2022

National Commissioner of the SAPS; General Fannie Masemola;

National Head of DPCI Dr/Adv Lt General Godfrey Lebeya Deputy National Commissioners;

Provincial Commissioners and Divisional Commissioners; Acting Secretary of Police; Mr Ramaru

Senior SAPS Officers; Heads of Entities;

All Heads of Department; Members of the Media

Good Afternoon

The crime figures we are releasing today reflect crime reported to the South African Police Service in the first three months of 2022.

These quarterly figures are used as a management tool to guide the operational plans of the SAPS.

The statistics are not just only to quantify crime, or create debate in society.

The figures also serve as a call of action for government, business, NGOs, civil society and communities to come on board in the fight against crime.

Ladies and Gentlemen, the first three months of 2022 have unfortunately been marred by more murders, more sexual violence, and more assaults, compared to the same time period in the previous year.

All in all these statistics don't give us a good picture.

Yes, the statistics you will see today show increased levels in contact crimes, these are cases where victims are targets of violence.

Festive season

The first three months of this year were violent, brutal and unsafe for many South Africans.

While we know and appreciate that the current socio-economy has directly impacted on crime levels.

Police have also had their hands full, following the Safer Festive season operations to ensure the festive season was safer and more secure.

The festive season interventions included heightened police patrols and operations, especially in areas where crime was likely to occur.

The festive season was safer, but not the same can be said about the first three months of the year 2022.

The triple challenges of poverty, inequality and unemployment, increasingly encouraged opportunistic criminal behavior.

However, police have made some gains and intercepted greedy criminal syndicates involved in extortion, kidnapping and cash-In-transit heists and drugs smuggling.

Unfortunately, their collective actions have not yielded the expected results.

Women and children

January February and March of 2022 was especially brutal for women and children of this country.

Murder, attempted murder and assault GBH of women all recorded double-digit increases.

Murder and assault GBH of children under the age of 17 years, also recorded sharp increases.

However, the number of attempted murder cases of children has declined by 6.8%.

Murder

Ladies and Gentlemen

In the three months of reporting, a 22.2% increase in murder was recorded.

1 107 more people were killed in South Africa between January and March compared to the same period in 2021.

Out of the 6 083 people killed in the country, 898 of them were women and 306 where children under the age of 17 years.

Alarmingly, the murder of children recorded a 37.2% increase in the period of reporting.

Causes of murder

Arguments, vigilantism, revenge or retaliation and robberies remain the top four causative factors of these deaths.

A total of 2 268 people were murdered in public places such as an open fields, streets, parking areas and abandoned buildings.

The second most likely place for murder to occur is at the home of the victim or of the perpetrator.

1 350 people were killed in that environment.

Liquor outlets and public transport such as busses, taxis or trains, were the third and fourth most likely places to be killed in South Africa.

Overall crimes committed against a person also known as Contact Crimes, increased by 15.0 %

Rape

All Sexual offences recorded a 13.7% increase with contact sexual offences recording the only decrease in this crime category.

The first three months of this year, 10 818 people were raped in South Africa.

Almost half of the cases, a staggering 4 653 rapes took place at the home of the rape victim or the home of the rapist.

Public parks, beaches, streets, open fields, parking areas and abandoned buildings were the second most likely places for rapes to occur.

Liquor was involved in 1 290 of the rapes.

The Eastern Cape's Lusikisiki Police Station, Inanda Station in KwaZulu-Natal and Delft Police Station in the Western Cape recorded the highest incidents of rape for this quarter.

Property related crimes

All Property Related crimes increased by 0.1% and burglary at non-residential premises declined by 6.4%

Assault

Assault GBH figures have shown drastic increases, with over six thousand (6 575) more cases reported during this reporting period.

42 992 cases of assault GBH and 45 746 cases of common assault were opened with the police in the three months of reporting.

Out of the 42 992 cases of assault GBH, 1 937 where children under 17 years.

Arguments, road rage, intervention in a fight and robberies were some of the leading causes of the assault GBH.

Kidnapping

3 306 kidnaping cases were opened with the police.

This crime trend has shown a sharp increase with over 1 700 more cases reported to the police compared to the same comparative period.

Most of the kidnapping cases were highjacking, robbery and rape-related.

The top three police stations with the highest reported kidnapping cases were Kempton Park, Heidelberg stations in Gauteng province and Delmas police station in Mpumalanga.

The Gauteng province accounts for the bulk of the kidnapping cases, recording over a thousand more cases in the period of reporting.

What went wrong

Ladies and Gentlemen, 2022 started on a low safety note.

But the question is WHAT WENT WRONG?

I have asked the management of the SAPS and the Provincial Commissioners of all nine provinces the exact same question.

Honestly, no answer justified these dismal figures but we all agreed, that all Provinces, Districts, Clusters and Stations need to do things differently if indeed we want to see desired outcomes.

The 'difference' we speak of, starts with minor to major changes.

This includes improved working conditions of officers: Ensure the availability of the required tools of the trade to respond to crime and rooting out officers who choose to intentionally fail the communities they are meant to serve.

Commissioner,

One thing is for sure, police alone cannot win the fight against crime.

We need deeper partnerships with communities built on trust, commitment, and delivery.

It is on this score that this Ministry will continue to lend support to you and your management team to aggressively restore the trust deficit that has broken down some in community relationships.

After all, police officers cannot police communities they are not part of.

But equally, we are aware that trust is not bought, TRUST is EARNED!

Commissioner, improved service from the police WILL earn back the trust and confidence of the community.

In other words, creating safer communities through effective community policing, is a matter of urgency.

50% of solutions to crime are through better working relations with the community.

Members of the Media,

The SAPS can no longer afford to pay lip service but MUST introduce accountability at stations if we are to truly serve and protect this nation.

This is why immediate interventions have now been put in place to address the dip in performance.

Allow me to expand on some immediate interventions agreed on between the Police Ministry and SAPS management.

We have adopted a police station policing approach.

This means accountability will start from the bottom (at stations) and escalate right up to the very top.

Commissioner, The Station Accountability Plan will fully work, if ALL station Commanders are empowered and supported through your management.

The Station Accountability Plan rests on Station Commanders.

As Commanders, you are expected to:

Know your staff!

Know the welfare of your members!

Take charge of your police station, keep track of your tools of the trade and maintain an overall healthy working environment. Lead, be firm and be committed to serving and your members, an they will follow suit.

Build and restore relations between organized community structures and the broader society you serve and your members.

It is a fact that the SAPS has thousands of hard-working and dedicated officers who on a daily, put their lives at risk in the execution of their duties.

Unfortunately, there are police officers that are failing communities.

The failure often starts at police stations;

This is why the Station Accountability Plan will ensure Community Service Centers are not scenes of secondary victimization by our own.

As the Ministry, we are encouraged that GBV Desks are now available at 1 154 police stations countrywide.

These Desks are staffed with members trained in GBVF-related courses.

Over 90 thousand police officers have been trained in Victim Empowerment, Domestic Violence and Sexual Offences related programs.

This will ensure a victim-centered service is provided by officers at police stations.

We expect the immediate implementation of the Station Accountability Plan especially at TOP 30 high crime stations. This sharp focus on stations will mean all station commanders will be expected to closely monitor their unique crime situations.

Every two weeks, commanders must evaluate and put in place relevant operational plans to curb crime.

Station Commanders must have in place monitoring mechanisms to ring the alarm in time.

Senior officers from National, deployed to TOP 30 high crimes stations as part of the "Police Station Guardian" program must be enhanced.

Clear targets of crime reduction and eradication within timeframes must be met.

As crime usually increases over the weekend, commanders must change their approach and must work through out weekends.

Police personnel should be saturating the streets over the weekends, as this is high noon of crime.

There will be expeditious processes, if and when the set targets are not achieved.

This Station Accountability Plan means it will not be tolerated for police stations to keep occupying the same spots as high crime stations.

There simply can't be stations that don't perform and it is business as usual.

This stops here and NOW!

Corruption within

If we are serious about rebuilding community relations, Commissioner, we MUST clean house!

Vetting and monitoring of members has to be speedily undertaken.

Crime Intelligence must be beefed up at station level for effective crime fighting.

The SAPS cannot be a haven for criminals disguised as officers of the law. Such behavior puts policing on the back foot and further erodes the trust between communities and police.

We call on the IPID to work with us on this one and deal with police officers, who fail the organization and ultimately the fail the nation.

We are also calling on the management of the SAPS to take the welfare and safety of all members on board.

Tools of trade

Service delivery in the context of this organization can mean the difference between life and death.

Interactions with communities on their safety concerns and policing needs, through the Ministerial Imbizo program, continues to assist the SAPS in improving its services to communities.

These Izimbizo aim to put in place immediate and efficient improvement mechanisms to deal with service delivery bottlenecks.

Without fail, the complaint about the slow response of police comes up far too often.

This was the case when we engaged the community of Jabulani, Pimville and Kilptown, in Soweto, the same complaint arose in Lusikisiki in the Eastern Cape and Botshabelo in the Free State in the most recent weeks.

It is the lived experience of community members who are far too often told there are no police vans to come and attend to their policing needs.

The police vans are usually out of action and waiting in long queues at garages to be maintained or fixed.

To mitigate this, the process of repairing SAPS vehicles is being overhauled.

Conclusion

Indeed these sweeping changes I have outlined will improve service delivery, improve response times and go a long way towards building safer communities.

These are a few efforts, if implemented well, should restore confidence in the police service, among our communities.

These interventions, including the Station accountability Plan

should yield results in the quickest possible time.

Sergeants, Constables, Warrant officers, Captains, Colonels, Brigadiers, Generals, you ALL have to change our mental approach in confronting this dire crime situation.

You all MUST say such high crime figures, cannot happen under my watch.

Take ownership and pride in your work.

It is our collective responsibility to pull up our socks and work smarter and harder to protect South Africans and their property.

Station Commanders, the focus is now on you and your station's performance.

Always remember... Police need the community and the community need the police - iphoyisa, iphoyisa ngomphakathi.

Work closely with Community Policing Forums and adopt a strategy that promotes community-centered policing.

Everyone has a job to do, do it and do it well.

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With those words, let me hand over to Major

General Thulare Sekhukhune who will give a Presentation which will reflect an overview of the 2021/2022 Quarter four crime statistics.

I thank you.

All Contact Crimes decreased by 15.0%

Crime Category

Figures

Murder

22.2%

Sexual Offences

13.7%

Attempted Murder

24.8%

Assault to do grievous bodily harm

18.1%

Common Assault

17.6%

Common Robbery

13.0%

Robbery with aggravating circumstances

6.5%

All Sexual Offences increased by 13.7%

Crime Category

Figures

Rape

13.7%

Sexual Assault

13.4%

Attempted Sexual Offences

26.3%

Contact Sexual Offences

-1.1%

Crime Category

Figures

Carjacking

19.7%

Robbery at Residential Premises

-0.4%

Robbery at Non-Residential Premises

- 3.5%

Robbery of Cash-In-Transit

26.2%

Bank Robbery

4 counts higher

Truck hijacking

31.4%

Contact-Related Crimes increased by 15.5%

Crime Categories

Figures

Arson

24.3%

Malicious damage to property

15.3%

All Property-Related Crimes increased 0.1%

Crime Categories

Figures

Burglary at non-residential premises

- 6.4%

Burglary at residential premises

1.0%

Theft of motor vehicle and motorcycle

1.5%

Theft out or from motor vehicle

1.7%

Stock Theft

2.5%
For the past two years, government agencies, local authorities, and security firms have spent years investigating ransomware attacks and finding ways to take down ransomware groups.

Despite all of their efforts, the cases continued to grow. The ransomware groups show that they do not pick and choose which sector to victimize, from small businesses and massive corporations to hospitals and schools.

But the crackdown on ransomware is not without progress. Law enforcement in the United States and the governments around the world were able to locate the masterminds of these ransomware groups, with the leader of the notorious Lapsus$ being the biggest fish that they have caught so far.

Because of this development, researchers pointed out that hackers may change tactics if their main hustle isn't working anymore.

Business Email Compromise Attacks

RSA, a network security company, based in Massachusetts, held a conference in San Francisco on May 30 to talk about the recent ransomware attacks.

One of the company's longtime digital scams researcher, Crane Hassold, warned the attendees that ransomware actors may switch to business email compromise or BEC attacks as their main way of scamming victims is now deemed high risk and has become less profitable.

Also Read: US Govt Warns Businesses of Increasing Email Scams

In the US, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has discovered that the money that scammers make via BEC scams is a lot more compared to the money that they make through ransomware attacks.

According to Wired, what makes the two different is that ransomware attacks are more visible and cause more disruption.

What Happens in BEC?

In business email compromise, the scammers will infiltrate a legitimate business email account and use the access to send fake invoices or initiate contract payments to trick victims into transferring money. Since the source of the emails looked legit, the victims wouldn't suspect it. Unfortunately, they sent the payment to cybercriminals because they thought it was just a normal payment process to their billers, according to SCMagazine.

Hassold, who was once a digital behavior analyst for the FBI, said that governments all over the world are paying so much attention to ransomware and are taking extra steps to disrupt it that they don't realize that cyber criminals are now moving forward with a different scam.

Hassold added that this new threat, the BEC, has more sophisticated actors behind it because more money is being made with it.

The BEC attacks reportedly originated in West Africa, according to TechTarget. These types of attacks are less technical, and they rely more on social engineering, which means it has a compelling narrative that tricks their victims into taking immediate action.

However, Hassold points out that a lot of the malware used in ransomware attacks is flexible, with a type of quality that allows scammers to easily assemble the combination of software tools they need to complete their hustle.

Hassold also stated that while ransomware gangs are made up of small teams, BEC actors are organized into a more decentralized group, making it more difficult for law enforcement to target a specific organization or a mastermind.

Just like how Russia was unwilling to cooperate with the FBI on ransomware investigations, the Nigerian government is taking too long to develop a strong working relationship with the global law enforcement regarding BEC attacks.

But even if Nigeria acknowledges the dangers of BEC, combating it is still a challenge.

Related Article: Google to Experience Huge BEC Phishing Campaign! Experts Claim Fraudsters Lure Forms Tool Users as Preparation

This article is owned by Tech Times

Written by Sophie Webster

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
(Photo : Unsplash/Mark Chan) Apple AirTag

A woman from Indianapolis was charged with murder after running over her boyfriend, Andre Smith, outside a pub on the city's northeast side on Friday, June 3.

Woman Tracks Cheating Boyfriend with Apple AirTag

The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police arrested 26-year-old Gaylyn Morris at the parking lot of Tilly's Pub in the 3900 Block of East 82nd Street.

The 26-year-old man, Smith, was found dead in the parking lot underneath a vehicle. The Marion County Coroner's Office determined Smith died from being deliberately hit by a car multiple times, according to Apple Insider.

According to a witness, Morris told them she tracked Smith using an Apple AirTag and GPS. Morris confirmed that she was Smith's girlfriend, and she believed that he was cheating on her.

Morris tracked down her beau and saw him talking to a woman at the bar. She then picked up an empty bottle and threatened the woman.

Also Read: Apple AirTags 'Personal Safety User Guide' for Your Mental Health and Avoid Worrying about Stalkers

Smith intervened and took the bottle from Morris' hand before she struck the other woman. Because of the commotion, a bar staff asked the three to leave.

The witness added that Morris got in her car and pulled forward, intentionally knocking Smith over. When he was on the ground, she reversed her car and ran the car over her boyfriend. She then pulled forward again to hit him for the third time.

Morris exited the car to attack the woman, but the officers arrived and immediately arrested her.

Morris was charged with murder, but the final charges were not revealed.

Apple AirTag Controversy

Apple's AirTag was created to help iPhone users track their belongings, but some people misused the device. Most of the reports authorities got were from stalking victims using AirTags.

This prompted Apple to include several anti-stalking measures and pushed lawmakers to look into the device to create a law that would prevent its use.

A recent victim of stalking via Apple AirTag was a 17-year-old girl from Tennessee. According to Meaww, Jennifer Gaston and her daughter Madison were at Walt Disney World in Florida when the teenager received a notification on her iPhone saying that they were being tracked for hours.

Madison received the alert. The two were on their way to their vehicle on the Magic Kingdom's monorail. The message says that she was tracked for four hours.

Jennifer told Fox News Orlando that they immediately called the police to report the incident. The authorities searched their car for the AirTag, but nothing was found. They believe that someone slipped an AirTag on the teenager while they were in line for a ride.

A Call to Discontinue AirTags

AirTags are coin-sized Apple devices that people put on things so they can be easily located using their iPhones. Some criminals have been using these devices to stalk their victims.

Because of the growing concern over the increasing criminal cases involving the device, some privacy groups have demanded that Apple pull the AirTags from store shelves permanently, according to BBC.

Related Article: Stalker Uses Apple AirTag to Spy on a Woman? Here's How the iPhone User Discovered the Tracker in Her Car

This article is owned by Tech Times

Written by Sophie Webster

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
A rocket created by Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin took its fifth batch of passengers to the edge of space, including the first Mexican-born woman to be included in the journey.

"Overview Effect"

At 9:26 a.m. ET, the 60-foot-tall suborbital rocket was launched from Blue Origin's West Texas facilities, lofting a group of six people more than 62 miles above the Earth's surface. It is widely regarded as the outer-space boundary and gives them a few minutes of microgravity before parachuting back to Earth.

According to CNN, the majority of the passengers paid an unknown amount for their seats. However, Katya Echazarreta, an engineer and science communicator from Guadalajara, Mexico, was chosen among hundreds of candidates to join this trip by a nonprofit called Space for Humanity.

The organization's purpose is to send "extraordinary leaders" to space and allow them to experience the overview effect, a phenomenon that astronauts regularly report experiencing when observing the Earth from space.

Echazarreta is the second Mexican to fly to space after Rodolfo Neri Vela, a scientist who joined one of NASA's Space Shuttle missions back in 1985. But ultimately, she is the first Mexican woman to go to space!

Echazarreta told CNN in an interview that she was able to experience that "overview effect" in her own way.

"And the only thing I could think of when I came back down was that I need people to see this. I need Latinas to see this. And I think that it just completely reinforced my mission to continue getting primarily women and people of color up to space and doing whatever it is they want to do," she stated.

Read also: NASA Releases 80's-Themed Roman Space Telescope Video Game | Find Out How to Play!

"Main Breadwinner"

Echazarreta said she was the main breadwinner for her family, particularly when she was 17 until 18, by working at McDonald's.

She is now pursuing an engineering master's degree at Johns Hopkins University. She formerly worked in California at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. She also has a TikTok following of over 330,000 followers, hosts a science-focused YouTube series, and anchors the weekend CBS show "Mission Unstoppable."

Her contributions were chosen by Space for Humanity, which was created in 2017 by Dylan Taylor, a space investor who recently joined a Blue Origin voyage himself.

Rachel Lyons, the organization's executive director, said in a statement that they were looking for leaders with "a sphere of influence," and Echazarreta possessed that.

After working at JPL and not seeing other engineers who looked like her, Echazarreta decided to become a public figure and represent her community.

Echazarreta sailed with Evan Dick, an investor who had previously flown with Blue Origin in December and was the first to become a return flier on the Blue Origin voyage on Saturday.

Hamish Harding, the chairman of a jet brokerage firm based in the United Arab Emirates; Jaison Robinson, the founder of a commercial real estate firm; Victor Correa Hespanha, a 28-year-old who purchased an NFT from a group called The Crypto Space Agency, were among the other passengers; and Victor Vescovo, the co-founder of a private equity investment firm, were among the other passengers.

Related Article: Blue Origin Wants to DOUBLE its Space Flights in 2022 | Another New Shepard Rocket Coming?

This article is owned by Tech Times

Written by Joaquin Victor Tacla

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
press release

A soundbite from the DA Federal Leader John Steenhuisen MP is attached here.

President Ramaphosa's response to the criminal charges laid against him by former Spy Boss, Arthur Fraser, in relation to the alleged theft of $4 million from the President's Limpopo farm in February 2020, raises more questions than it answers. What is most evident in this latest factional saga, is that ANC infighting, intra-party battles, and factionalism continue to dangerously destabilise the South African state.

The conclusion that each and every South African must now reach, is that the only hope of restoring stability to the South African state, and ensuring the future of our nation, is to vote the ANC out of office. We cannot allow the toxic infighting of the ANC to demolish the project of a free, democratic, and prosperous South Africa.

The Democratic Alliance will not be pulled into the ANC's factional battles, however, we still have a duty to the Republic to ensure that even the President is not above the rule of law. There are many holes in this story that need to be filled. To this end, we will be taking several steps to get to the bottom of this issue which remains worryingly unclear.

Firstly, we will be writing to the Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service (SARS), Mr Edward Kieswetter, alerting him to this sum of money, and calling on SARS to investigate whether this sum was declared and whether it carries tax implications, as per the Income Tax Act and Tax Administration Act.

Secondly, we will be writing to the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) to ascertain whether this sum of foreign currency pertains to an illicit flow of funds and potential money laundering on the part of the President, as per the Currency and Exchanges Act of 1933. The nation deserves to know the truth behind this transaction, and the DA will ensure that this matter does not become another ANC cover up.

Close Sign up for free AllAfrica Newsletters Get the latest in African news delivered straight to your inbox Top Headlines Governance Legal Affairs South Africa By submitting above, you agree to our privacy policy. Success! Almost finished... We need to confirm your email address. To complete the process, please follow the instructions in the email we just sent you. Error! Error! There was a problem processing your submission. Please try again later.

As part of our duty to ensure that state Presidents and former ANC leaders answer to the rule of law in South Africa, we also look forward to the Supreme Court of Appeal's hearing of Jacob Zuma's medical parole appeal which has now been set for 15 August 2022. In this case, we trust that the rule of law will prevail and that Arthur Fraser's unlawful granting of medical parole to former President Jacob Zuma will send him back to jail. Whether sitting or former, the DA will not hesitate to hold any of our state presidents accountable.

South Africa can no longer be held ransom by the ANC's incessant infighting and factional battles which have already bled out onto the streets of our nation and led to many deaths. If the ANC is the principal cause of state instability and the collapse of South Africa's democratic project, then there is only one thing we as South Africans must do: the ANC must be voted out of office in 2024.
"I worry about what the children will learn" I made a mess in the pension and left as it was
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It has been a little while since I returned Mangia Mangia to its Mediterranean roots so this month, we go to an easy but delectable Italian dish that is a staple for many for good reasons: Its delicious, simple to make and inexpensive, like many from our culture. Its kind of like an American pot roast, except you are using chicken, which is usually less expensive than beef.

One of the reasons that it is popular, in addition to the above, is that, like pot roast, its something you can throw together hours in advance and then just let it sit in the pot or casserole dish while absorbing flavors until dinner time. Then, you easily reheat or continue to heat until it is at a proper serving temperature, and then you serve.

If you have been a reader of my column, the usual criteria apply here, as mentioned above: Its affordable, quick to make and delicious!

Salute and buon appetito!

Chicken cacciatore

2 or 3 pounds chicken, cut up

2 or 3 cloves garlic, minced/pressed

1 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste

1/4 teaspoon pepper, or to taste

1/2 cup dry white wine

1 onion, finely diced

1 teaspoon paprika

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

3/4 cup brandy

3 cups canned tomatoes

Pre-heat EVOO in a heavy sauce pan and saute garlic for a minute or two. Put the chicken in pan and sprinkle with paprika as it browns to enhance flavor and color. Its up to you to either remove browned garlic or leave it in as long as it doesnt burn. Transfer browned chicken to medium-sized casserole dish. Add onion, tomatoes, salt, pepper, rosemary, wine and brandy to sauce pan. Bring to a boil and simmer for a few minutes to marry the flavors. Then pour over the chicken in the casserole dish. Cover and bake at a medium temperature until chicken is tender and sauce has thickened.

Taste to satisfy it suits your preferences. Serve it now or let it sit until you are ready to eat. You can reheat at any time. If it is too much for one meal, you can freeze a portion for a later date so you can enjoy it twice, but only do the work once.

Bob Leonardi was born and raised in Weedsport, but spent summers on Owasco Lake in Auburn. After graduating from St. Lawrence University, where he cooked for other students to earn extra money, he moved to Florida and started a fine wine and gourmet food store. In a matter of a few years he added a restaurant, upscale catering and event planning to his business, which he ran in Fort Lauderdale for 15 years. He bought and restored Green Shutters restaurant in 1999, running it for 12 years in the spring, summer and fall while being an event planner in the winter. During that time, he was also a food critic and wrote a column for a newspaper called the South Florida Social. He has written his column for The Citizen since 2005 and can be reached by contacting The Citizen or via email at raleonardi@roadrunner.com.

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A bill that would allow retired math, science and other teachers to return to the classroom without their benefits being suspended won final legislative approval Sunday in the Louisiana Senate.

The Senate voted 35-0 to go along with minor changes made by the House, sending the proposal to Gov. John Bel Edwards.

Bill to address teacher shortage clears first hurdle, 'The issue everybody is facing' Responding to Louisiana's teacher shortage, a state Senate committee Monday approved a bill that would allow select teachers to return to the 

Under current rules retired teachers who go back to teaching can only earn 25% of their final average compensation.

The proposal, Senate Bill 434, would allow certain teachers who return to work without any such suspension as long as they fill a "critical" shortage in public schools.

It would apply to English, math, science and special education teachers.

The scoop on state politics in your inbox Get the Louisiana politics insider details once a week from us. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up

Teachers would have to be at least 62 years old, been retired for at least one year and to have retired before July 1, 2020.

The plan, sponsored by Senate Education Committee Chairman Cleo Fields, D-Baton Rouge, is one of several pending in the final hours of the session aimed at addressing Louisiana's teacher shortage.

Others would apply to all teachers but limit their pay to 50% of their retirement benefits.

The nearly three-month session ends on Monday at 6 p.m.
Donna Hilliard poses at her home in New Orleans, Thursday, May 26, 2022. Hilliard received a Road Home grant to elevate her home after Katrina and Rita. Louisiana is now suing about 3,500 recipients of the grant because they did not elevate their homes and cannot prove they spent the money on repairs. (Photo by Sophia Germer, NOLA.com, The Times-Picayune | The New Orleans Advocate)
DANCE

Kunstkamer 

State Theatre, until June 11

Artists of the Australian Ballet in Kunstkamer. Credit:Jeff Busby

How remarkable that Australian Ballet has chosen to present this shadowy but extravagant commemorative pageant created in 2019 for the 60th anniversary of the founding of the international contemporary dance company Nederlands Dans Theater.

The storied Dutch company, which is associated with the work of choreographer Jiri Kylian, does not have a notably close connection with Australia. So Kunstkamer, bewildering but thrilling, lands on our shores like an austere monument to an alien culture.

Its an expansive program created by four choreographers  Paul Lightfoot, Sol Leon, Marco Goecke and Crystal Pite  using three imposing black facades with many entrances and exits. These walls move throughout the performance, compacting the space or creating gaps.
The dialogue, mostly verbatim, is rushed and poorly delivered. The infamous wager scene, which featured two of the most ribald lines ever delivered in a non-pornographic film of the time, is wince inducing. As is the first-base tutorial between Kathryn and the naive Cecile (Francine Cain). It also casts a lens over the progression of social mores over the decades since the film was released, be it the homophobia intertwined with the gambit between the overtly queer Blaine (Euan Fistrovic Doidge) and closeted jock Greg (Joseph Spanti), or the casual racism shown towards Ronald (Rishab Kern) by Ceciles mother (Fem Belling). Disappointingly, the issues are brushed aside rather than creatively explored. But no one is here for the story. The set list is a sentimentality-inducing score on steroids. It features a smattering of songs from the original soundtrack, including Placebos Every Me Every You, the Verves Bittersweet Symphony and the Cardigans Lovefool, accompanied by staples of the So Fresh catalogue such as Christina Aguileras Genie in a Bottle, Deep Blue Somethings Breakfast at Tiffanys, Sixpence None the Richers Kiss Me and Boyz II Mens Ill Make Love to You. With most shoehorned in clumsily, theyre delivered to varying degrees of success. As is the choreography, outside of a bombastic routine to *NSYNCs Bye Bye Bye that would make Timberlake proud.

Westons two-tone delivery is stale and left to wither when commanding the stage solo, Burgess (when you can hear her) is far more punchy but lacking in range, while Kelsey Halge as Annette, is, ahem, No Doubt the strongest performer of the cast. Credits must be given to stunningly morphing set design by James Browne alongside the video and lighting by Craig Wilkinson and Declan ONeill respectively. But its not enough to carry a show that is essentially a 90s cover band playlist on Spotify. Reviewed by Tyson Wray JAZZ Trio Grande  The Jazzlab, June 4

The current incarnation of Trio Grande existed only on paper until a couple of hours before the bands first Melbourne show on Saturday night. With guitarist Gilad Hekselman and guest drummer Eric Harland flying in from the US to meet up with Sydney-based saxophonist Will Vinson on the day of the gig, there was scant time to rehearse. Loading Yet from the opening notes of their first tune, the three exuded an extraordinary chemistry and cohesion. Perhaps it wasnt so extraordinary, since Harland has worked individually with Hekselman and Vinson for many years and has a chameleonic ability to adapt to any musical setting. Still, it was impossible not to feel a sense of awe as these remarkable artists came together as a trio for the first time, generating a collective energy that was as joyful as it was potent. And while their quicksilver reflexes allowed them to lock in tight when required, they also revelled in the freedom of the unknown. On Saturday night they played two back-to-back shows, each with sold-out, rapturous audiences. Both shows focused on compositions by Vinson and Hekselman, anchored by strong themes that the trio could stretch or set adrift at will.
Private schools are grappling with how to plug the loss of tens of millions of dollars in government money under new funding rules, with some principals fearing they will have to raise fees so much the schools will be out of reach for middle-class families.

Options range from significant fee hikes to program or staff cuts, increases in student numbers or more fundraising, said the principals, who were approached by the Herald.

Most said fee rises beyond the annual average of about 3 per cent were most likely. The stress is keeping everyone up at night, said one.

However, critics said private school fees rose even when government subsidies were going up  some have kept pace with Sydney house prices  and there was no reason why schools could not cut back on their educational programs, as lesser-funded government schools with similar demographics performed just as well.

Some independent schools will lose money as funding levels are adjusted for fairness under the Gonski model, which introduced a Schooling Resource Standard (SRS) to calculate how much government support private schools were entitled to when parental income was taken into account.
A few weeks ago Fr Brian Lucas of North Sydney had to give a presentation in France to 90 of his international colleagues, simultaneously translated in five languages. Following the protocol I began by indicating I would speak in English. I then said I would speak very slowly, even though the Australian accent is the most elegant in the Anglophone world (C8). Everyone laughed. They understood.

Different hemisphere, different planet (C8). Many years ago Megan Jones of Pyrmont met a Midwest-American woman while they were both travelling around Europe. While sitting at a canal-side cafe in Venice and hoping to get some travel tips, I asked her what the highlight of her trip had been so far. She replied that it was encountering a group of fellow Episcopalians.

When he visited a national park in America (C8), Graham Hellyer of Belconnen (ACT) asked the ranger if Australian veterans also got discounts. He replied, No, only for Allied countries.

My kingdom for a crown, proclaims Bob Phillips of Cabarita, having tried to find a pineapple crown (C8) for the centrepiece of our jubilee celebration cherries over the weekend, but to no avail. Curse you supermarkets!

We sinister people have always needed to punch above our weight (C8) due to the dexter orientation of much around us, writes Lyn Langtry of East Ryde. However, after commenting about the upside-down heart in my cup, my barista turned the shape to accommodate my left-handed grip. Kevin Harris of Beecroft suggests checking out the current Australian cricket team, where theyre in the majority for another example of left-handers punching above their weight.
A teenage boy was allegedly thrown to the ground, kicked and sat on after an argument in Brisbanes Queen Street Mall.

Police were investigating the alleged assault, which involved three 15-year-old boys, on Saturday night.

Two boys approached a 15-year-old in the mall about 8pm, when they got into an argument. Credit:Tertius Pickard

Officers said initial information suggested two boys approached a 15-year-old in the mall about 8pm, when they got into an argument.

The pair threw the boy to the ground, kicked him and sat on him before running from the scene, police said.
Theres one piece of negative feedback that every political campaigner loves hearing: Im sick of opening my phone and seeing your ads.

It was frequent feedback we heard inside the teal independents digital war room as we served an unprecedented amount of advertising on social media to voters in the inner-city Liberal strongholds. All told, digital ads (on social media, YouTube, Google search or websites) promoting independents were seen more than 100 million times. The voters in Kooyong, for example, saw an online ad promoting Monique Ryan an average of 251 times each over the course of the campaign.

But this is just part of the story. To focus on raw numbers alone would be to miss the real reasons behind the success of the teal campaigns.

Sophie Scamps, Zoe Daniel, Monique Ryan, Allegra Spender and Kylea Tink all ousted Liberal men from parliament. Credit:Jessica Hromas, Penny Stephens, Luis Enrique Ascui, James Alcock, Getty Images

Below the iceberg is the story of an advertising campaign that borrowed from both corporate marketing and cutting-edge US political campaigns to upend several campaign orthodoxies in Australia. And it worked, beyond any pundits expectations, and despite the protestations of the Liberal Party via the media: that these seats were theirs, in Peta Credlins words, by right.
Many of us talk to our cats, but if you learn the signs, youll realise theyre talking back to you.

You may know that your moggie swishes its tail when its not happy, but have you seen it shaking its paw in front of its food bowl?

Feline behaviouralist Rose Horton cuddles Firestorm Ignatius, aka Poppy, a cinnamon tabby point Siamese. Credit:Meredith OShea

That can mean it doesnt like the food.

Learn to Speak Cat was the title of one of feline behaviourist Rose Hortons talks to crowds at the Cat Lovers Show on Sunday.
Reforms must proceed

It will be inexcusable of the state government if it does not introduce legislation for youth justice reforms so as to reduce youth offending and protect Indigenous children. The present law where children at the age of 10 are criminally responsible is unacceptable and must be changed to 14. This decision is too important to be put into the too-hard basket and deferred because of a fear it could have an impact on the coming state election. Too much harm has been done already to these children. Action must be taken now.

Glenise Michaelson, Montmorency Monarchist inclined

The republic v monarchy debate is complicated, and full of subtleties, and I am inclined to rely on the experts when I feel I am out of my depth. The fact that the ABC, Malcolm Turnbull and Peter FitzSimons are as one on the side of the republic confirms my monarchist inclination.

Pete Smith, Edgecliff, NSW The field is a workplace

Lets look at on-field violence from another angle: the sports field is a workplace. If I were to headbutt a co-worker in my place of employment Id expect more than a two-week paid holiday. Id rightly be summarily dismissed. If the sporting codes are serious about sending the right message that violence is unacceptable then more serious penalties should apply. Why are sporting codes seemingly outside the auspices of acceptable workplace behaviour?

Angus McLeod, Cremorne Crypto messaging

The recent 4 Corners program on crypto mania investigated the hype of crypto currency, which was attractive to many and understood by few. The program concluded that it was nothing more than a Ponzi scheme. Early investors made their money on the losses of the latecomers. The crypto industry needs new gullible investors. What better way than to get into bed with the AFL. Footy games promote crypto around the stadiums and competitions give away crypto accounts. Just like with the gambling industry, young sports fans are being sidetracked into a rich quick illusion.

Dave Barter, Hawthorn No thanks to the Queen

Dont assume we are all thankful for the years of service of the Queen.

Many of us remember what was done in her name by the conspiring governor-general of Australia to dismiss the Whitlam government. This was the most anti-democratic action that a monarchs representative could take. The institution of monarchy allowed this to happen. It should not have happened. I give the Queen no thanks for her service as part of an autocratic regime.

Fred Tropp-Asher, Mooroolbark

More to a republic

The editorial (4/6) rightly concluded with a call for strong leadership on the republic issue. The obvious irrelevance of her majestys Platinum Jubilee and the fact that a slim majority for, is still a majority, may excite some interest, but a republic is not just choosing a president, its also a reformation of governance, so how could that be considered without First Nations involvement? First a treaty on just terms, inclusion in the Constitution and in parliament. Without these prior steps, any republic would be fatally flawed.

John Laurie, Riddells Creek Royal entertainment

Was the ABCs sparse coverage of the Queens Platinum Jubilee celebrations a budget issue, an oversight or a statement? Whatever the reason, the ABC should have recognised its significance.

The republic will happen: until then, would the broadcaster please consider that many people, including republicans, enjoy the ceremony and style of a royal event.

Mary Cole, Richmond Welcome intervention

I despair after 30 years of fighting for appropriate services and funding for people living with a disability, and then discovering the rorts by some, receiving lucrative funding of those services. I welcome the ongoing interest and awareness of Bill Shorten in his move to investigate the situation, and improve the lives of many.

Suzette Gallagher,

Port Melbourne Menzies era not great ...

Tony Wright (4/6) comprehensively demonstrates how the Morrison government prosecuted its own version of a class war by neglecting safe Labor seats in its grants program. In so doing, Morrisons party is said to have set its face against Robert Menzies dictum that the class war was a false war in Australia.

We have heard repeated calls recently for the Liberals to return to the values espoused by Menzies. But was Menzies such a sage of the sensible centre? His rhetoric may have rejected the notion of a class war, but in practice his government and that of his successors pursued uncompromisingly right-wing policies.

Those with left of centre political views, especially Labor politicians, were routinely labelled commies, strenuous efforts were made to ban the Communist Party, and anything that smacked of a welfare state was vilified. Menzies Liberals opposed any suggestion of a universal health system, the White Australia Policy was maintained, foreign policy was joined at the hip to American military initiatives, and oppressive regimes such as the apartheid system in South Africa were strongly endorsed. Under Menzies, Australia was a backward-looking country.

If a return to these values is adopted by the Liberals, they will be out of power for a long time.

Mike Smith, Croydon ... Dont lean on him

Roshena Campbell (30/5) is right, Menzies did mention professional women in his 1942 speech  three times. It was men who were front and centre. Most women were politically invisible in 1942, hidden behind the four walls of the great Australian home.

As Menzies points out, the first value of the middle-class Australian is of the home: The home is the foundation of sanity and sobriety ... its health determines the health of society as a whole. What he doesnt mention is that women kept these homes healthy. As he lets his male-centric view slip, my home is where my wife and children are ... the instinct to be with them is the great instinct of civilised man. He asks: How can I qualify my son to help society? Yet what of his daughter? How could she develop her own career if she was expected to tend to the home?

While the Liberal Party scratches its head, wondering why contemporary women dont feel represented by its views, it should stop and think how dwelling on the anachronistic words of a man who knew nothing of gender equality is not a good idea.

Yana Barton, Balwyn North

Its not us and them

Peter Duttons claim that people in the suburbs buy electric cars because they want to save on petrol, but people in the inner city buy them to make a statement shows that he hasnt learnt anything from the Coalitions loss. Hes still pursuing the politics of us versus them. A politics of we would recognise that we are all trying to do something about the connected problems of climate disruption and energy security.

Matt Holden, Coburg A good start

I was captivated by the photo of the new federal Education Minister, Jason Clare, surrounded by smiling, engaged children at his old school, Cabramatta Public (4/6).

As a former teacher, I am pleased that he pledged to be a strong defender of teachers and to not engage in the divisive culture wars of his predecessors. I hope that our public schools finally get a fair go in the next state-federal funding deals that have, for too long, favoured private schools.

Anne Sgro, Coburg North AND ANOTHER THING Albanese

Anthony Albanese moving into the Lodge might reflect a return of a PM for Australia rather than just NSW.

Joan Segrave, Healesville Anthony Albanese: a leader of integrity, humbleness, pro-women, pro-climate change, pro-welfare.

Donna Fotiou, Blackburn South

Anthony Albanese wants to engage with Timor-Leste. As a first step he could scrap the disgraceful prosecution of Bernard Collaery and pardon witness K.

Reg Murray, Glen Iris Saint Anthony, the patron saint for the recovery of lost things. Any hope for nine years of lost opportunities?

Brian Rock, Beechworth Furthermore

Good to see the government backs a rise in the minimum wage. I hope that they dont forget those on JobSeeker who are suffering with cost of living increases.

Dean Virgin, Strathmore RIP Robert Gordon Menzies 1894-1978. RIP The Liberal Party of Australia 1944-2022.

Stephen Baldwin, Frankston Its to be hoped the obscene amount of gas being exported is rewarding Australians, not increasing household prices.

Bill Burns, Bendigo
It was a beautiful, sunny afternoon with the occasional light wind in late May, but with Memorial day and Graduation season upon us, first responders are reminded that the 100 Deadliest Days are upon us. To help prevent our Southern Cayuga High School Junior and Senior students from becoming a statistic, local fire, police, and EMS agencies are coming together with the schools administration to deliver a message about drinking and distracted driving.

On Thursday, May 26th, a Mock Accident was played out in front of the students. The scenario involved a student, Jake Myers, playing the role of a reckless driver. After consuming alcoholic beverages and using cannabis, Jake gets behind the wheel of a vehicle with his friends, Avery Colton and Alex Keeney. While traveling down the road at a high rate of speed, distracted by his friends who are actively filming a TikTok, Jake does not see the stop sign, and enters the roadway. A second vehicle full of students driven by junior Alex Reuter, strikes the vehicle in the area of the driver's side door causing the vehicle to slide into a nearby telephone pole. Jake's friend, Alex, perishes prior to EMS arrival. Avery needed to be flown from the accident scene, to the local trauma center. Two other students are in the second vehicle, one succumbs to her injuries.

Luckily, this was only a scenario and no one actually perished.

The SCHS students were educated on the impacts of a single bad decision. They watched as Jake underwent field sobriety testing performed by Deputy Brandon Androsko while it was narrated by our very own Sheriff, Brian Schenck. Their classmate Jake was placed in a Cayuga County Jail uniform and shackles as ADA Amanda Cassleman is present to discuss the typical charges Jake may face. Shurtleffs Funeral Home helped in driving the message home when classmate Riley is wheeled to the hearse while in a body bag.

The presentation concluded with Long Hill Fire Department Assistant Chief Steve Fedrizzi speaking to the students about how he and his family have been affected by drunk driving.

The Mock DWI committee would like to thank everyone involved. Many departments and volunteers came to deliver this message to our local high school students just prior to their senior dinner dance and graduation.

Involved were Southern Cayuga Ambulance, LifeNet 7-12, Cayuga County Sheriff's Department, Shurtleffs Funeral Home, Fire Departments from Poplar Ridge, Scipio, Long Hill, Aurora, King Ferry, Genoa, Fleming, Oakwood Service Center, and Finger Lakes Regional EMS Council. A special thank you to our moulage artist Emerald Lonsky and our phenomenal dispatchers Travis Collins from Southern Cayuga Ambulance and Taylor Millitello from Cayuga County 911!

Melinda Pitman is a paramedic with TLC Emergency Medical Services and Southern Cayuga Ambulance, and assistant chief of operations for the latter. All thank you letters are reprinted as submitted.

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A Chinese fighter jet released flares and small pieces of metal known as chaff dangerously close to an Australian aircraft, threatening the safety of the plane and the crew in an incident a security analyst says should disturb the international community.

Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles said Australia would not be deterred by the very dangerous incident, which occurred in international airspace late last month while the Australian aircraft was conducting legal maritime surveillance, and the government had raised concerns with Beijing.

The surveillance aircraft was intercepted by a Chinese J-16 fighter jet. Credit:AP

We have made representations to the Chinese government, but we will not be deterred from engaging in the activities, which we are entitled to under international law, in the future, he said, adding Australia had conducted such surveillance in the South China Sea for decades.

On May 26, an RAAF P-8 aircraft performing routine surveillance was intercepted by a Chinese J-16 fighter jet in international airspace in the South China Sea region.
Few would claim that the recent federal election campaign was replete with big ideas. Many including this masthead were critical of small-target politics during the campaign, but as the prime minister made clear in the opening remarks of his acceptance speech, Labor did support a big idea about Australias First Nations people.



It is now five years since a large and representative body of Indigenous leaders issued the Uluru Statement from the Heart calling for a Voice to parliament entrenched in the Constitution and a Makarrata Commission to oversee treaty-making and truth-telling.

The Uluru Statement from the Heart.

While treaty and truth-telling are on Labors agenda, it has made the Voice to parliament its highest priority. Anthony Albanese has committed to holding a referendum in his first term. That is no small task. Since 1901, there have been 19 referendums, proposing 44 changes to the Constitution, of which only eight have managed to get the green light.

That poor strike rate has made governments hesitant to back referendums. The vote in 1999 on Australia becoming a republic, which did not pass in any state, has been the only one in more than 30 years.
Square Peg said it will update its valuations next quarter, beginning June 30, with the worth of companies deemed material determined by an independent valuer. AirTree will update its valuations on its usual quarterly cycle, also on June 30. Each of the funds stressed that even without Canva, their performance is strong compared to competitors in Australia and abroad. And it is typical in venture capital for one or a few great bets to carry many other investment decisions, given high failure rates are expected among start-ups. At a lower valuation, Canva would still be an impressive pick for the funds that have invested in it, especially Blackbird, which got into Canva early and repeatedly backed it over many years. Even with a steep markdown, Blackbirds investment in Canva is poised to deliver its investors an enormous return. Yet as important as Canva is to the Australian tech sector alone, it is also a marker of how far the sector has dropped from its recent highs. Blackbird advertises its funds under the banner of seeking the wild hearts with the wildest of ideas even as messianic founders such as WeWorks Adam Neumann are being pilloried in popular culture. Credit:Blackbird AirTrees co-founder Craig Blair acknowledged in an interview that the price paid for start-up investments over the past year had soared, but disputed that AirTree had done too many deals at too high prices.

I think its true to say that any investor who invested in growth stage companies in the last 12 months has ... certainly paid valuations weve never seen before, and may never see again, Blair said. He said AirTree was disciplined in its investments, had accounted for valuations returning to long-term averages, and had paid the right price to reflect markets at the time deals were done. Paul Bassat, who co-founded jobs site Seek in 1997 and then Square Peg in 2012, told The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age he was broadly confident in the decisions made while the market was very hot, pointing to stakes in companies that had good internal economics and reserves of money, but also conceded times would be harder. In the current environment, we probably expect over the next six or 12 months some write-downs, were going to see more failures in venture capital portfolios for the next year or two than weve seen the last year or two, Bassat said. But I wouldnt necessarily be thinking that as at June 30, therell be significant write-downs. How does venture capital work? Venture capital funds sign up investors, such as superannuation funds or wealthy individuals, who are willing to risk money on high-risk, high-reward bets on start-ups.

The start-ups they invest in are almost always unprofitable, and by design because they are only just beginning. But as a general rule, venture funds expect between two-thirds and three-quarters of the investments they make to fail, with all the returns of a fund generated by a handful of massive successes.

In an exchange for an influx of cash, often contributed through multiple funding rounds as the business grows, the company grants the fund equity, or shares, and often a board seat.

When everything goes well (which is the exception, not the rule), the start-up grows and eventually achieves an exit - either through an initial public offering on a sharemarket, or through a sale to a bigger company. The venture funds and their investors usually book a significant return on their initial investment. In an emailed response to questions, Blackbird co-founder Niki Scevak projected a bullish outlook.

Whilst multiples have contracted, we arent seeing anything to suggest that the quality of companies being formed in Australia and New Zealand is diminished, Scevak said. A spokesman for Canva pointed to the companys positive metrics and noted there was variance in valuations, including some investors who had not changed their valuation and others who had reduced their assessments by 10 or 20 per cent. Valuations with institutional investors are being heavily influenced by public peer comparisons which are turbulent primarily due to the broader macroeconomic environment, the spokesman said. AirTrees Craig Blair, Blackbirds Niki Scevak and Square Pegs Paul Bassat. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer / Oscar Colman / Arsineh Houspian Blair stressed that venture capital funds are ultimately judged on the cash they return to investors. But the valuation plunge will still reverberate across the sector. It will hurt start-ups trying to raise funding by forcing them to hand over more equity in return for the cash they need to survive  or face going under. Others will have to spend less cash, hire fewer people and reduce marketing as they try to make existing money last as long as possible and show investors they have a path to turning a profit. Those start-ups that raise at lower valuations also face the prospect of demoralised staff, who had been expecting their shares would keep rising in value.

Loading Square Peg, Blackbird and AirTree all said they would not start introducing harsh non-standard clauses into deals to protect their investments, despite the downturn, with each emphasising that they had funds to deploy and were seeking good companies. Some of the strongest start-ups will likely benefit from a diminished war for talent if the sector cools. On the other hand, the VC funds will be hit indirectly because investors, such as the nations retirement funds, will not see nearly as rosy a picture when considering tipping in money into their next funds. In a deck dated 2021, Square Peg is seeking $US550 million across its fifth generation of funds, targeting an initial close in February this year and final close in the second quarter. Were not raising and we wont be raising until well into the back end of next year, said Blair of AirTree. Square Pegs Bassat said it was essentially done raising its latest round of funds, though they had not closed. In the 2022 Blackbird funds deck seen by The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, it is asking for $1 billion, split across two Australian funds and one in New Zealand.
We have had an independent expert develop best practice reporting guidelines which have driven significant improvements in the second set of transparency reports, including the release of more Australian data, DIGIs managing director Sunita Bose said. The codes signatories all offer very different products, so being able to draw meaningful comparisons between different digital platforms will always be a challenging task. The guidelines focus on encouraging signatories to drive improvements within their services over time, and the public release of annual transparency reports provides accountability in that effort. Facebooks disclosure was noted in a section of its report on co-ordinated inauthentic behaviour, which is typically designed to mislead people about who is behind an operation to manipulate public debate for a strategic goal. Sunita Bose represents the big social media and technology firms. She argues the code has increased transparency. Credit:Edwina Pickles Reports from other companies, which are a product of a voluntary misinformation code adopted by the industry, show the scale of false coronavirus claims circulating online.

Video social media network TikTok, for example, disclosed a rapid ramp-up in its take-downs of Australian medical misinformation during the coronavirus pandemic, peaking at almost 4500 videos removed in the month of September 2021. Between January and June last year, Twitter removed 1028 posts from Australia with COVID-19 misinformation and suspended 35 local accounts. YouTube removed about 5000 videos that violated its rules on dangerous or misleading COVID-19 content. Loading But these figures generally do not show how many people saw the content before it was pulled, how quickly it was identified, how much more was reported but not pulled or what exactly was removed to allow debate on each companys moderation systems. Jake Wallis, who heads the Australian Strategic Policy Institutes disinformation program, said the voluntary transparency reporting process was a good initial step but challenges remained. Dr Wallis and colleagues at ASPIs cyber policy centre, which is sponsored by firms including Google and Meta, revealed the financially motivated misinformation campaign that hit the 2019 federal election.

The metrics are ambiguous and difficult for both government and industry to measure performance against, said Wallis. How much content removed constitutes the right amount? How does industry define Australian-specific performance metrics on platforms across which flow transnational networks? Chris Cooper, executive director of Reset Australia, an advocacy group critical of the technology giants, is scathing of the transparency reports. Many of the figures and facts outlined in the report are designed to sound impressive, but they lack transparency and meaningful context, said Cooper, whose organisation receives support from eBay founder Pierre Omidyars foundation and progressive consultancy Purpose. Ultimately, we are left beholden to offshore, digital behemoths to decide how theyll manage the threat. Which is a level of self-regulation that we accept from no other industry.

By contrast, the libertarian Institute of Public Affairs, has inveighed against proposals to let the ACMA regulate misinformation, saying it risked turning the authority into Canberras thought police. In a letter to MPs sent last month, the IPA argued that the government should not be in the business of deciding whether things like political claims constituted misinformation and that it should be up to the public to make up their own mind. Loading The idea that debate needs to be suppressed to protect against harms to democratic processes is a draconian and arrogant assumption that belongs in George Orwells Nineteen Eighty-Four, not in a genuine liberal democratic society, IPA legal rights program director Morgan Begg wrote. In a survey released by DIGI, the research firm Resolve Strategic asked Australians about their views of misinformation and found little consensus across people with different political affinities about what fit the term. In one example, survey respondents split when asked about a report in The Guardian about the catastrophic effects of climate change.

DIGIs code was strengthened last October by an independent board to oversee guidelines and handle material breaches conduct. An independent expert, Hal Crawford, was hired to fact-check the transparency reports. In a statement sent by DIGI, Crawford said the 2022 reports were an iterative step on from last years. In addition to the Australian data, the reports set out steps like fact-checking, information centres, and warning notes that the tech giants have implemented. They also contain extensive global statistics. DIGI now plans to take it one step further. It is seeking feedback from academics and the public on ways to improve the code. Meanwhile, the government is considering the best way to tackle the issue. Newly appointed Communications Minister Michelle Rowland accused the previous Coalition government of waiting years to start scoping out powers for the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) to address misinformation. The regulator doesnt have the power to investigate or compel information from digital platforms about how they manage misinformation and disinformation in Australia, so there is an important role for regulation in this area, Rowland told The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age. Former communications minister Paul Fletcher unveiled plans in March to introduce laws that would give the Australian Communications and Media Authority more power to discipline tech companies that failed to meet the standards of their voluntary code. Rowland has not explicitly said whether she will give the ACMA these information-gathering powers, which would allow it to legally request tech platforms to hand over information about complaints handling, issues they are being acted on and engagement with harmful content.
London: The night before Prince Philips funeral in April last year, David Hurley  the first Australian governor-general to be born after the Queens 70-year reign began  sat nervously beside the phone in his office in Yarralumla.

The retired general and former chief of Australias defence forces had met the monarch four times in person during his long and decorated public life, and had spoken on the phone and via video link on countless other occasions. But this time it was different.

The Queen receives David Hurley, then governor of NSW, at Buckingham Palace in 2016. Credit:Getty

I had obviously written to her to express our condolences as a nation, but I didnt think that was sufficient, so I arranged for a phone call with her, thinking that it would be after the funeral, he said. I didnt expect she would make time the night before.
Age is the untold story of all this stuff, said Metzl, who is also a sociologist. I feel very strongly we should not have people 18 to 21 with guns. - - - The United States is one of the only countries in the world where mass public shootings are a regular occurrence. Researchers Jillian Peterson from Hamline University and James Densley from Metropolitan State University, both in St Paul, Minnesota, have spent their careers tracking these events, and their research shows that attacks are overwhelmingly carried out by men whose ages are strikingly clustered around two key periods in their lives. Workplace attacks have been mostly carried out by men in middle age. School shootings, on the other hand, involve perpetrators mostly in their late teens or early 20s. Men in these same two age groups, Peterson points out, also have higher rates of suicide largely using firearms. A Washington Post analysis of 196 mass public shootings in which four or more people were killed since 1966 shows that nearly 98 per cent, or all but five, of the perpetrators were men. Forty per cent of the shooters were between the ages of 18 and 29 and another third were between 30 and 45.

Theres a familiar pattern to the young mens trajectory to violence. I think it is this kind of coming out of adolescence: not knowing your place in the world, and being depressed and isolated and more vulnerable to what you are reading online, Peterson said. Peterson is a criminologist who studies the life histories of mass shooters, and when she has gone back decades later to interview perpetrators who committed an attack in their teens or early 20s, they dont even recognise the person that did that. She said the perpetrators describe feeling disconnected from their murderous earlier selves. Under the US legal system, age is a critical part of how laws are written and justice is meted out. Most states allow people to drive at 16, federal law allows voting at 18 and drinking at 21. The Supreme Court itself addressed the importance of neuroscience in how crime and punishment should be viewed. In Roper v Simmons in 2005, the majority held the death penalty for juvenile defendants, who are younger than 18, was unconstitutional. Justice Anthony M. Kennedy wrote that a lack of maturity and an underdeveloped sense of responsibility are found in youth, quoting one of his own previous decisions.

Kami Chavis, director of the criminal justice program at Wake Forest University School of Law, said the country needs to use that same logic when it comes to regulating the tools those young people use to commit their crimes. We need to pay attention to the scientific evidence that suggests these young minds may not be capable of having the serious responsibility of owning an assault rifle, she said. - - - In the stories of young shooters, experts say theres often a disconnect between the lives they lead and the lives they think they should have. But while most people endure such disappointment, these perpetrators appear to have gone through a series of psychological changes that led to their explosions of violence. Fantasies of unlimited power and greatness and an intense desire for admiration are how Frank Robertz, director of the Institute for Violence Prevention and Applied Criminology in Berlin, characterises one common thread among the perpetrators. Peter Langman, a psychologist who researches school shootings, noted in The Journal of Campus Behavioral Intervention that the sense of damaged masculinity is common to many shooters and often involves failures and inadequacies.

Eric Madfis, an associate professor of criminal justice at the University of Washington at Tacoma, talks about White male grievance, although he acknowledges that not all the shooters have been White. He suggests the perpetrators are trying to regain control through a masculine solution after a long period of frustration. Loading We teach boys and men that the only socially acceptable emotion to have is not to be vulnerable and sensitive, but to be tough and macho and aggressive, Madfis said in an interview. In the case of shooters, he added, often we are talking about boys who have been emasculated over a period of time. They were bullied, or ignored, or didnt have the dating life or popularity they wanted. Ramos, who killed 19 children and two teachers in Uvalde last month, was said to have been bullied over a lisp and stutter. Cruz, who murdered 17 students and staff at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, had exhibited behavioural issues since middle school. Lanza, who killed 26 people at Sandy Hook Elementary in Newtown in 2012, was a loner who spent much of his last few months locked in his bedroom, communicating with his mother via email even as they lived in the same house.

Robertz said another common thread among shooters is the connection between a disturbed adolescence and escapes into a fantasy world. Their manifestos and interviews offer evidence that these often-violent visions gradually take up more of their mindspace. When coupled with low self-esteem, excessive anxiety, bleak life perspectives and, most of all, a very deficient social bond to other people, the visions get stronger, he said. Loading They only realise these violent fantasies in our physical world if they do not get stopped, and if a certain trigger event happens, which usually resembles the destruction of their last subjective hope, Robertz said. In the aftermath of these shootings, a shocked and grieving public, along with law enforcement officials, invariably debate ways to predict and stop attackers. In the past, some police urged the use of artificial intelligence software to comb through school records, gun purchases and other data to flag youth who might have a propensity to commit violence. Cincinnati Childrens Hospital Medical Centre analysed transcripts of psychiatric interviews of teens to try to pinpoint who might be at risk of school violence. On the day of the Uvalde shooting, Rahul Sood, a former Google employee who is now chief executive of Irreverent Labs, a gaming company, took to Twitter to suggest government authorities monitor spikes in ammunition purchases, and social media conversations, especially of registered gun owners who might be potential threats. [U]sing machine learning you can make predictions of where the next mass shooting might occur, we can stop it before it happens, Sood said.
AUBURN  The Auburn City Council has approved new collective bargaining agreements with unions representing fire and police department personnel.

Council members unanimously supported separate resolutions approving agreements between the city and the union for Auburn Police Department officers and the larger of two unions within the Auburn Fire Department. Auburn Fire Chief Mark Fritz told The Citizen Friday that another union, representing the AFD's assistant chiefs, is still in negotiations with the city.

The new labor contracts run through June 30, 2026, and include yearly raises for employees in both unions. The starting yearly pay for police officers will be set at $55,900 and for firefighters at $45,000, both taking effect July 1.

Prior to the vote at the meeting regarding the agreement with the fire department, Councilor Jimmy Giannettino praised the AFD for all of its work, including administering COVID-19 vaccinations to residents of Auburn and Cayuga County and handling recent fires in the city, including fires at neighboring homes on Gaylord Street in late May. He also praised Auburn police before the vote on their agreement.

The firefighter union approved their new agreement on Thursday, and the police union approved their agreement on Wednesday. The current agreements for both unions expire on June 30, with the newly approved contracts going into effect July 1.

City Comptroller Rachel Jacobs said Friday that the wage schedules for both unions were reestablished for the first year of these respective four-year contracts. Fire department members are set to get annual 3% raises for the last three years of the new agreement, while APD employees are poised to receive 4% increases annually for those last three years.

Jacobs said both new agreements include employees paying 15% of the premium for their health plans, which is the same as the current contracts for both unions.

The city's $43 million 2022-23 budget, approved by council at that same meeting, includes funding for the pay increased expenses associated with both contracts.

The new fire department agreement includes a per-shift staffing minimum of 14 employees. Fritz said that represents a change from the current contract, with a minimum of 12 employees. He noted the National Fire Protection Association's standard for career fire department staffing "states that 14 career firefighters should be on staff to handle a single family, two-and-a-half-story woodframe structure fire, so that's part of the reason why we wanted to move in that direction" for minimum staffing.

Fritz said the 14-person minimum staffing level, including duty chiefs, provides "efficient and effective service to the citizens while providing an increased level of safety to the firefighters." Since the Auburn Fire Department is at full staffing, Fritz said he believes that the AFD's current staffing levels allows that 14-person minimum to be met without issue.

"I think this is a contract that takes care of the employees and allows the department to continue to provide the most effective and safest service to the citizens," he said.

Shortly after the council meeting ended, Auburn Police Chief James Slayton mentioned the raise percentages, noting that the department wants to retain staff and has been trying to keep staff on for years amid losing several employees in the last few years, saying the department currently has five vacancies.

"Getting this contract done in a timely manner was a great thing for us as a department, because then that's behind us. Members are happy with the contract, they ratified it last night, so they're happy with it and we're all happy with it," he said.

Slayton said he has happy about the contract's unanimous approval from council showed that the council knew both sides negotiated "in good faith" and said the negotiation process went smoothly.

Staff writer Kelly Rocheleau can be reached at (315) 282-2243 or kelly.rocheleau@lee.net. Follow him on Twitter @KellyRocheleau.

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June 5, 2007

AUBURN - The Cayuga County Arts Council hopes to jump start the several-year-old Schine Theater restoration project and extend its cultural reach with the appointment of a full-time executive director.

The council announced Monday that Susan Harris will be the first to fill the full-time position since lack of funding forced the departure of Karen Colizzi-Noonan in 2001.

It's the right time, council President Dia Carabajal said. There's been a lot of buzz about the Schine Theater project.

The decision is rooted in the seven-point Call to Action issued by a committee of volunteers in January. A key piece of the plan calls for shaping of a cultural identity for Cayuga County and Auburn around development of a theater district.

That kind of sparked us into motion, it's their call to action and we're moving on it, Carabajal said. This is just the right time for the Schine Theater project and the right time to move programming forward.

The council purchased the Schine Theater in 1998 and has gradually made repairs to the 1938 structure since then. In addition to the Schine project on South Street, the executive director will focus on an building a creative industry for the area, Carabajal said.

It's becoming more and more necessary that regions develop culturally as a form of economic enrichment, she said. You've got to give people something to do after 5 o'clock to help your downtown.

The nonprofit group plans to tap a matching grant from the state Council on the Arts to cover the undisclosed salary for the director.

It opens up an entirely different world for us as far as funding goes, Carabajal said, noting a full-time director is a frequent requirement for project-funding grants from the state Council on the Arts.

Harris brings 20 years of experience in project management, historic preservation, strategic marketing, public relations and fundraising as a professional artist and advocate for the arts. The Union Springs resident with art and design degrees from Wells College and SUNY Oswego has worked with Finger Lakes Arts and Grants Services, Geneva, and the Route 90 Scenic Byway tourism initiative among others.

Harris plans to bring together government, business, artists, organizations and residents to create an arts culture and economy centered around a resurgent Schine Theater.

I look at my job as being sort of a collaborator, a person to bring together these partners, she said. This isn't just about arts or economic development, it's about improving the quality of life in Auburn.

It's like creating a strategic plan with all of the stakeholders, Harris said. A project of this magnitude takes collaboration.

On the programming side, Harris envisions more workshops to help artists become more economically competitive and education initiatives that create a market for them.

Harris has been stepping into the executive director position since April and officially took over on June 1.

 Compiled by David Wilcox

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The Citizen is hosting a special free virtual graduation for area high schools, offering seniors from across the region one location to celebrate graduation together.

Joining is simple: Go to https://auburnpub.com/virtual_graduations.

There, seniors may upload photos, list accomplishments, offer a favorite quote and tell the world about their future plans. Thank you to Union Springs Supermarket for their sponsorship, which allows us to offer this at no cost to our 2022 graduates.

This is a time for us to connect with these students in a meaningful way. We are looking forward to joining our schools and community in recognizing graduates in a timely and unique way.

Family members are welcome to submit profiles on behalf of their graduates, as well.

Area school administrators will be contacted about this special website soon, and some may connect their seniors with the platform. But theres no reason to wait. Simply go to the website listed above and answer a few simple questions to get started.

Submissions are open now, and the site is live.

Michelle Bowers is The Citizen's president and director of local sales and marketing. She can be reached at (315) 282-2213 or mbowers@auburnpub.com.

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Signage seen as Spotify presents The Billie Eilish Experience at The Stalls at Skylight Row in Los Angeles on March 28, 2019. (Joe Scarnici/Getty Images for Spotify)

4 Things This Spotify Analyst Expects at First Investor Event Since 2018 Direct Listing

Shares of music streaming service Spotify Technology SA have lost half of their market capitalization year-to-date. Heres what one bull analyst is saying ahead of an investor event this week.

Spotify Analyst

KeyBanc analyst Justin Patterson reiterated an Overweight rating and $210 price target for Spotify shares.

Spotify Takeaways

Spotifys first formal investor event since its direct listing in 2018 is scheduled for 10 a.m. ET on Wednesday, June 8.

Spotify will likely give updates on its core audio progress, Patterson said in a note. The analyst estimates that monthly average users will likely increase about by a factor of six, to 532 million, between 2015 and 2023, and premium subscribers will increase by more than eight times to 229 million.

Patterson is bracing for more details on podcast and ad initiatives. Podcasting, which is estimated to be a $1.45-billion ad industry in the United States, will likely grow to $4.2 billion by 2024, he added.

While macro caution is warranted, we believe market conditions are aligning for Spotify to capture audio ad share.

Spotify is also expected to revisit the creator opportunity and investment cycles, as it plans to increase the number of creators from 11 million at the end of 2021 to over 50 million by 2025, the analyst said. This goal is primarily dependent on how Spotify can transform its service into a platform for creators across music streaming, podcasts, paid audio, radio and live performances, he said.

The analyst also expects an increased focus on unit economics and margin drivers. While Spotify targets long-term gross and operating margins of 30 percent-40 percent and 10 percent-plus, respectively, the analyst sees a blended gross margin approaching 27.5 percent, excluding investment.

By Shanthi Rexaline

 2022 The Epoch Times. The Epoch Times does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
Reaching Within: What traditional art offers the heart

Twenty-five hundred years ago, Socrates turned the poets away from his utopian Republic. He claimed that the poets were too dangerous because they created illusions that led citizens away from the truth. The antidote he suggested was a philosopher king: a wise leader who would censor the poets and guide them in their creations.

The philosopher king would not permit the poets to tell tales of mischievous godslike those in Homers poems. Instead, the philosopher king would guide poets to display gods with dignity and honor so that their actions would be an example for citizens to emulate.

Its not only poetry, though, that the philosopher king would censor. All of the arts would be under the philosophers control. For instance, the philosopher king would guide musicians to compose martial pieces to harden warriors and prepare them for war instead of sentimental tunes that might soften them and inhibit their ability to serve and protect their country.

With Nietzsches critique of Socrates in the 19th century, Socrates came to be seen as someone who censored ideas and emotion, and therefore limited human potential. Nietzsche suggested that the artist is the one who, having endured the hardships of fate, could create and fashion himself into his own work of art, a self he could be proud of upon his death.

These two thinkers had two different approaches to art. Socrates suggested that artistic truth was beyond human experience and existed within the world of the divinely rational; Nietzsche, on the other hand, suggested that artistic truth was relative to human experience and the connections we ultimately make with each other.

These differing viewpoints lead to the question of whether beauty is objective or subjective. Is there true beauty existing beyond sensuous perception, serving as a standard by which we can judge what is beautiful and what is not? Or is beauty based on our subjective, that is, relative experiences of the world around us?

Mercury Crowning Philosophy, Mother of Art, 1747, by Pompeo Batoni. Oil on canvas; 47.2 inches by 35.2 inches. The State Hermitage Museum, St. Petersburg, Russia. (Vladimir Terebenin/The State Hermitage Museum)

The Crowning of Philosophy

The Italian painter Pompeo Batoni provides what I think is an artistic response to this question. In 1747, Batoni painted Mercury Crowning Philosophy, Mother of Art.

At the far left of the composition, the god Mercury, dressed in yellow with his winged helmet and holding his caduceus (staff), leads our eye into the picture plane. He points to an angel at the far right of the composition. The angel prepares to crown a woman named Philosophy with a laurel wreath.

The focal point is Philosophy. She is modestly dressed, but the golden crown already on her head and the scepter in her hand reveal her royal stature. She holds one of Platos books in her hand, and her other hand is open as if she is ready to give or receive something, and it leads our eye to the toddler below her, whom we can presume is Philosophys child.

Detail showing the toddler representing art of Mercury Crowning Philosophy, Mother of Art, 1747, by Pompeo Batoni. Oil on canvas; 47.2 inches by 35.2 inches. The State Hermitage Museum, St. Petersburg, Russia. (Vladimir Terebenin/The State Hermitage Museum)

The child sits among artistic implements: paintbrushes, a bust, compass, and a lyre. The child holds a torch in the darkest area of the composition, and the position of the torch leads our eye back up to the angel behind Philosophy.

Batonis Response to an Ongoing Question

So, how does Batonis painting provide a response to the philosophical question posed earlier? Lets first start with Mercury.

Mercury is the Greco-Roman god messenger. He relays messages between the gods. The staff he holds is the caduceus, which was given to him by Apollogod of the sun, beauty, and musicafter Mercury invented the lyre. Already, we can see Mercurys connection with the divine, with art, and with beauty.

Mercury instructs the angel to put the crown on Philosophys heada reward that comes from above. Philosophy looks above at Mercury as he instructs the angel, which reassures us that Philosophy is concentrating on the divine messenger and thus the divine message.

Interestingly enough, the laurel wreath is being placed right on top of the crown Philosophy already wears, and we can presume that it will cover and not replace her earthly crown.

Philosophy holds a book by Plato, who was the mouthpiece of Socrates. Batoni is letting us know which philosophy he finds to be of benefit to the arts: It is Socratess philosophy that is in the best interest of the arts and of the public.

Philosophy presents her hand as if she is both giving and receiving something. Maybe she does both: Perhaps she receives a divine message from Mercury and gives a divine message through her child, who represents the arts.

In this sense, philosophy is the medium by which art presents a divine message. Is this why the child holds a torch in the darkest area of the composition, because he represents the divine message that can guide humans out of the darkness and toward the light of divine truth?

Batoni seems to suggest, like Socrates, that the purpose of art is to exhibit divine messages for the benefit of civilization. The divine, not human experience, becomes the absolute standard by which beauty is judged, and the way to the divine is through philosophy, that is, the study of wisdom, which finds its source in the divine.

Socrates is often accused of censoring the arts because he turns away the poets and the illusions they create. Yet, we cannot practice wisdom without also practicing discernment. That is, we have to say yes to some things and no to others. In other words, wisdom requires a degree of censorship.

So, yes, Socrates may say no to the poets who create illusions, but in the tenth book of Platos The Republic, Socrates encourages poets to make their case and defend themselves. According to our interpretation of Batonis painting, which poets might Socrates admit into the republic? To which poets would Socrates say yes?

Would it not be the poets who thoughtfully engage in the pursuit of truth for the good of society? Would it not be the poets who let the love of wisdomphilosophygive birth to their art? Would it not be the poets who search for and express what is righteously divine?

Have you ever seen a work of art that you thought was beautiful but had no idea what it meant? In our series Reaching Within: What Traditional Art Offers the Heart, we interpret the classical visual arts in ways that may be morally insightful for us today. We try to approach each work of art to see how our historical creations might inspire within us our own innate goodness.
Families of asylum seekers warehoused outside of an overcrowded family shelter in Portland, Maine, on May 25, 2022. (Steven Kovac/Epoch Times)

Asylum Seekers Overwhelm Shelters in Portland, Maine

PORTLAND, MaineFacing an impending humanitarian crisis, Portland Family Shelters Director Mike Guthrie has a simple message to anyone who will listen, We need help!

Guthrie, a hands-on, frontline worker in the effort to feed, clothes, and house a continuous flow of foreign nationals arriving in Portland by airplane or bus from the U.S. southern border, told The Epoch Times, Our family shelter facilities, our warming room, and even area hotel space is at capacity. We have maxed out our community resources.

The time is coming when Im going to have to look a dad in the face and tell him and his family that I dont know where theyre going to sleep tonight.

The Portland Family Shelter is a complex of four rented buildings in various states of renovation located in the heart of downtown.

Some of the structures are gradually being converted into small apartments where up to four families will share a single kitchen and bathroom.

All four buildings are overflowing their present capacity.

The intake is greater and faster than we can process, Guthrie said.

Mike Guthrie, director of the family shelter in Portland, Maine, on May 25, 2022. (Steven Kovac/Epoch Times)

To accommodate the stream of new arrivals, the family shelter program has in recent months placed 309 families (1,091 people) in eight hotels located in five neighboring municipalities spread over three counties of southeastern Maines prime tourist and vacation region.

Those moves, with their attendant complications and problems, have resulted in some pushback from the local Mainers who fear their prized relaxed lifestyle may never be the same.

And they resent not having a voice in any of it.

Its just part of the state governments plan to bring the slums to the suburbs, said a Mainer from the resort and tourist community of Kennebunkport, a small town about 28 miles down the Atlantic coast from Portland.

The United States cannot rescue Africa.

Coming out of the Kennebunkport post office, long-time Mainers Virginia and Robert shared their opinions on what the locals see as the invasion of Maine by immigrants.

Virginia commented, We have sympathy for the asylum seekers, but resources are over-extended and now its going beyond Portland.

Eventually, its going to impact our quality of life, Robert said.

A view of Dock Square in Kennebunkport, Maine, on May 25, 2022. (Steven Kovac/Epoch Times)

Pressures on Portlands homeless shelter capacity last year inspired a York County community action group to obtain a federal grant to help house the citys regular homeless population.

The plan included renting half a dozen large motels in a three-mile corridor in the heart of southeastern Maines Atlantic-shore tourist region.

Motels within walking distance of shopping opportunities were selected.

The motels close in the off-season, so it appeared to some people to be a win-win arrangement.

Included in the plan was the small, quiet, resort town of Wells, located about six miles from Kennebunkport.

Though the program sheltered hundreds of individuals from the brutal Maine winter, the resulting wave of never-before-seen vandalism, burglaries, and other property crimes in the commercial district forced the city of Wells to evict every tenant for violations of several municipal ordinances.

It is unclear where the evicted people were relocated.

Homeless Victimized and Intimidated

A motel in Wells, Maine, that was used to shelter the homeless of Portland on May 26, 2022. (Steven Kovac/Epoch Times)

According to Captain Gerald Congdon of the Wells Police Department, the crimes were not committed by foreign asylum seekers, Wells residents, or by the many legitimate, disadvantaged, and debilitated people housed in the motel.

The perpetrators arrested were mostly couch-surfers spending time with homeless friends staying legally at the motel. However, the bulk of grant-qualified motel dwellers had drug problems, Congdon said.

One small business operator, whose sweetshop was burglarized, told The Epoch Times, The thieves were druggies in need of a fix. They came in through a window, stole the cash from the register, and took our digital scales.

These people were brought in around Christmastime. It was like an invasion. We never had a crime at our store before they came in and ruined things.

Its not fair. We now think differently. They changed the whole landscape of how we do business. We dont want to see them come back.

Congdon told The Epoch Times, There was shoplifting at the bigger chain stores and car break-ins going after loose change in the strip mall parking lot.

A small bike shop was burglarized twice, losing thousands of dollars-worth of high-end bicyclesnever happened to them in 42 years of business.

Our officers spent a lot of time on disturbance calls and enforcing warrants. We made quite a few arrests and recovered some stolen property.

The management of the areas motels got tired of seeing us there. They were tired of their legitimate businesses being associated with crime.

The nice tenants, many of whom are truly deserving of help, were being victimized and intimidated. They were afraid to call us.

Congdon said his department was not consulted and was given no advance notice on the plan to bring hundreds of homeless peopleincluding many known drug-addictsinto their city.

The City of Wells was not compensated for the additional hours of policing.

A broad, sandy, beach in the tourist region of southeastern Maine, on May 26, 2022. (Steven Kovac/Epoch Times)

Feeder Sources

On May 1, a hotel in the resort town of Old Orchard Beach, located about halfway between Portland and Kennebunkport, evicted all of its residents for a different reason.

This time, they were asylum seekers evicted in order to make room for the arrival of legally permitted temporary seasonal workers to lodge there.

These special visa-holders make up the majority of the workforce needed by the regions thriving hospitality industry.

The asylum seekers were relocated to motels in three other southern Maine communities, according to Portland city officials.

In Portland, 500 single asylum seekers are housed in a municipal shelter separate from the family shelter, according to a spokesperson for the city. It too is at capacity.

Guthrie told The Epoch Times that city authorities have publicly notified what he calls the feeder sources at the southern border and in Washington D.C. about the immigration crisis unfolding in Portland.

The city administration asked Border Patrol, Health and Human Services, and participating non-profits to stop sending asylum seekers to Portland until sufficient resources become available to adequately care for them.

But the force of the citys request was blunted when it announced immediately after the notification that it would not turn anybody away, acknowledged Guthrie.

Maine Gov. Janet Mills in 2019. (Rebecca Hammel/U.S. Senate/Public Domain)

Guthrie stated that the city asked Maine Gov. Janet Mills, a Democrat, to call out the National Guard to set up emergency shelters and feeding stations but has not yet received an answer.

On June 2, in remarks before the Portland Regional Chamber of Commerce, Mills committed the state to building a new emergency shelter in the city and said she was working to create additional housing for asylum seekers in the area.

She also spoke of the desirability of the in-migration as a source of labor to fill many existing job openings.

Speaking of the migrants, Mills said, We need the workforce here. We want them to be available for work. Some of them come with incredible skills and experiences that we can employ.

One long-time Maine resident, who visited the Portland Family Shelter to see the situation for himself, told The Epoch Times, Mike Guthrie is like a man frantically trying to bail out a sinking rowboat, while his superiors continue to drill holes in it.

During the month of May, the family shelter took in 79 families consisting of 262 individuals with no slowdown in sight, Guthrie said.

220 people turned up in just 20 days. Were trying to help anybody that comes to the door. Thus far, nobody coming to us has had to sleep outside but we can no longer guarantee shelter upon arrival, he said.

We need the state of Maine to step in and create safe places for these people. We need a facility to be created and run like a FEMA camp.

Our legislators are talking about buying and renovating older apartments throughout the region that could house 140 families. Thats great in the long-term, but the problem is now!

At the rate things are going, wed have those places filled in two months. Then what? Guthrie asked.

Portlands pastors, church members, and its citizens have been stepping forward to do what they can.

Local churches and those in Cumberland are offering space for people to sleep and some Portland residents have even opened up their homes, Guthrie said.

A surge in asylum seekers crossing the border in the Rio Grande Valley has put a strain on the immigration system. Here, migrants are on the move, in Mission, Texas, on March 17, 2021. (Los Angeles Times via TCA)

Where Are the Asylum Seekers Coming From?

The vast majority of the new arrivals at the family shelter in Portland have come from Angola and the Congo in Africa, with some coming from Haiti in the Caribbean.

They make the arduous and often dangerous journey any way they canlargely on foot.

Guthrie told of a father and child who recently showed up at the shelter.

The man said that his wife, the young childs mother, died on the way. She was swept away while crossing a river.

Guthrie explained that the route to Portland for most of the asylum seekers begins in chaos-torn western equatorial Africa.

They cross the Atlantic to South America. They go up through South America and then north through Central America, ending up in northern Mexico, from which they cross the southern border into the United States.

At that point, they present themselves to Border Patrol.

A new arrival tells Border Patrol I am here to seek asylum. If I go back home, I will be killed. I fear for my life. Thats the difference between an asylum seeker and an immigrant, he said.

Those three short sentences guarantee a persons admission for a lengthy stay in the United States as his or her claim is adjudicated.

Guthrie went on to explain, After some additional questioning, the individual is issued minimal paperwork by immigration authorities and told they will be contacted about a formal hearing on their asylum plea. They are then turned over to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Most are given cell phones.

Public servants with the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), and representatives of various American non-profit, philanthropic organizations, ask the asylum seekers where they want to go in the interior of the United States to await their asylum hearing.

For many, their answer is Portland.

They are then put on buses or airplanes and sent on their way, Guthrie said.

Lobsterman Tucker Soule unloads a trap at Cape Porpoise near Kennebunkport, Maine, on May 23, 2022. (Steven Kovac/Epoch Times)

Why Portland?

Guthrie said that Portland is often recommended to people enroute to the United States by relatives who are already living in the city.

Once they get here, the majority of the new arrivals want to stay in Portland. They tell their relatives and friends about us, he said.

Jessica Grondin, the citys director of communications and media, told The Epoch Times in a phone interview, Portland is happy about and proud of our good reputation as a Welcoming City. We presently have a large Somali population, as well as many Iraqis and Afghans who arrived here previously.

Grondin said that several busloads of asylum seekers recently shipped off to Washington D.C. by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, ultimately made their way to Portland.

She stated that, along with the lack of housing, one of the biggest problems facing the city is a shortage of staff to care for the volume of new arrivals.

Guthrie said that the influx asylum seekers has exceeded the citys ability to offer basic services.

As we outgrow our past limits, we are being forced to prioritize what we are doing for these people. We are no longer able to help them connect with local immigration attorneys, nor help them learn English, he said.

Effective May 7, a policy change took effect forbidding the shelters staff from assisting asylum seekers in finding an apartment.

Instead, these folks, who are complete strangers to this community and speak no English, are being qualified for a state General Assistance housing voucher.

They are given a sample lease, a rental form, and an explanation of the GA process, and are then sent out on their own to find a place to live, Guthrie said.

While most of the new arrivals speak Portuguese, some speak French, Lingala, or another tribal language. Many are bilingual, but none speak English.

Weary of waiting around, some of the French-speakers asked to be sent to Quebec, but the strict Canadian rules concerning COVID-19 prevented them from entering, Guthrie stated.

Condition and Needs of Asylum Seekers

Guthrie described the migrants situation, saying, Understand, the majority of these people arrive here with no money. They spent their life savings during their trip and have to start over. They need everything.

They come from hot climates wearing summer clothes. We have given away about 97 percent of our clothing stock to help them cope with the colder weather here in Maine.

We have to keep many people outside during the day and then pack them into our warming room for the chilly Maine nights, or on rainy days, he said.

Fathers, mothers, and their numerous small children are kept outside all day long. They stand on the sidewalk across the street from the shelter or sit in an alley between two old houses passing the time until the next meal.

The grimy concrete and stony gravel of the alley serve as furniture. There are no chairs or tables. They sit or recline on whatever is at hand, or on the bare dirt.

The shade formed by the receding shadow of the walls of the surrounding old buildings is their only comfort.

Antsy and bored small children have no toys with which to amuse themselves, except for one little boy who rides a plastic big-wheel tricycle around the alley.

A small bathroom is available to people upon request in one of the shelters buildings, or at a nearby city-owned singles shelter around the block.

For showers, we team up with a local church that comes by with a bus and offers showers to any of them that want to go, Guthrie said.

When asked if the asylum seekers are Christians, Guthrie answered that many ride a bus to church services on Sunday morning.

The shelter provides families with three meals a day, prepared off-site by community partners.

We pick up the meals and bring them here and serve them indoors. The food is decent. A typical lunch is a sandwich, salad, soup, granola bars, snacks, milk and water, Guthrie said.

Guthrie told The Epoch Times that the family shelter is providing standard baby formula for the young children, but one baby is intolerant to it.

This infant requires a specialty brand that is hard to geta fact that is upsetting to the mother and her child.

The Maine Immigrant Rights Coalition (MIRC) is providing asylum seekers residing in hotels and motels with some culturally appropriate foods such as fufu (an African staple), goat meat, greens, chicken, and rice, he said.

A lot of the accommodations do not have kitchens.

According to Guthrie, the cost per motel room is between $250 and $350 dollars per night and rising as the tourist season begins.

MIRC is part of a network of 85 statewide organizations involved in the care of the thousands of asylum seekers already here and those that are arriving daily.

Guthrie said the state is footing 70 percent of the family shelters expenses, with the city making up the remaining 30 percent.

But Guthrie says that getting the children into school is among the best assistance that can be provided.

The schools offer all kinds of different programs. They have community resource officers. They keep the kids busy while giving them two meals a day, he said.

More than 60 different foreign languages are spoken by students at Portland area schools, further complicating every task associated with education.

When asked about the overall health condition of the asylum seekers, Guthrie replied, They are exhausted and scared. They havent travelled a safe route. Though clearly traumatized, very few will talk about the details of their experience. Counselling is available if requested.

Teams of health care workers are performing what Guthrie calls health outreach. They have set up clinics at some of the motels to perform triage and make any necessary medical referrals.

The city of Portland has a busy public health clinic helping to provide treatment, but some people with more serious conditions end up in emergency rooms.

To overcome the language barrier, the city provides interpreters, and health care workers make use of cell phone translation apps.

On the whole, Guthrie said most of the people under his supervision are physically very healthy.

Pregnancy is the families most urgent medical concern, and their most pressing medical need is OBGYN (obstetrics and gynecology) care, he said.

He also said there is some sickle cell disease among them.

A young Angolan mother and child outside the family shelter in Portland, Maine, on May 25, 2022. (Steven Kovac/Epoch Times)

City Hall allowed The Epoch Times access to several families being warehoused outdoors and a number of parents were eager to talk about their current plight.

Speaking through an interpreter provided by the shelter, and in the presence of shelter director Guthrie, Samantha, a young Angolan woman with a 10-month-old baby on her hip and a toddler in tow, was not shy about sharing her dissatisfaction.

When asked if her familys basic needs were being met, Samantha replied, We just need a place to sleep. We stay outside in the sun and the elements because there is not enough space for us indoors. There are not enough clothes for my family.

Being outside all day is not good for my baby. Some of us have caught colds. Some had fevers. Some were so sick they went to the hospital.

My son eats a special baby formula. I have to ration his feeding.

What we are fed is very different than what we are used to. We are receiving no culturally appropriate food. There was no way for us to take a shower for five days.

We endured a seven-month journey to come to this! We are not happy. Conditions are not good! We really need help.

When asked if she felt welcome, Samantha said with a look of disbelief, No! I do not feel welcome. Look at us. We are outside.

A Congolese family seeking asylum in Portland, Maine, on May 25, 2022. (Steven Kovac/Epoch Times)

Landry, a housepainter and electricians helper, brought his wife Sylvie, two-year-old daughter, and 12-month-old son to Portland from the Congo.

When asked why he risked the journey, Landry answered, I left my country because of political issues and insecurity. There we could be sure of nothing. Here, its different.

Sylvie said, We came from Texas unprepared for this Maine weather. I am not happy for how I am living here. I dont feel welcome!
A Chinese PLA J-16 fighter jet flies in an undisclosed location in a file photo. (Taiwan Ministry of Defense via AP)

Defence Minister Flags Dangerous Attack by Chinese Jet on Australian Aircraft

Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles on June 5 raised concerns about a dangerous incident in which a Chinese aircraft intercepted a Royal Australian Air Force routine flight over waters that China is disputing in the South China Sea.

Marles, who is also deputy prime minister, said on June 5 that on May 26, the J-16 Chinese military jet released flares as it flew close to the side of the Australian P-8 aircraft while the P-8 was on its regular maritime surveillance flight in international airspace. The Chinese jet then accelerated and cut across the nose of the Australian plane, before releasing a bundle of chaff containing small aluminium pieces, some of which were ingested into the P-8s engine.

The Australian crew responded by flying back to base. None of the crew were injured.

Quite obviously, this is very dangerous, Marles said.

He stressed that the incident will not deter Australia from engaging in surveillance activity that is within our rights in international law.

Other countries do the same, he said.

We are deeply invested in the rights of freedom of navigation in the South China Sea  This is a body of water that is deeply connected to Australia because of our trade, which goes through there.

Deputy Leader of the Opposition Richard Marles addresses a media conference in the press gallery at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia, on Dec. 7, 2020. (Sam Mooy/Getty Images)

Meanwhile, new Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said his government has raised the issue with Beijing but he wouldnt be making further comment on the matter other than to say that, in the Australian governments view, this was not safe.

Responding to the Australian authoritys concerns, Chinas Foreign Ministry did not confirm or deny the incident but defended the actions of its warplane.

China will never allow any country to violate Chinas sovereignty and security in the name of freedom of navigation, and endanger peace and stability in the South China Sea, its spokesman said.

China once again urges the Australian side to earnestly respect Chinas national security interests and major concerns, and to be cautious in words and deeds, so as to avoid misjudgment and serious consequences.

The concerning manoeuvre comes as Beijing ramps up its effort to become the dominant force in the Indo-Pacific region, with Chinese Minister Wang Yi visiting eight Pacific countries and signing a slew of agreements across areas including economic development, health, and police training.

The South China Sea attack took place three months after a Chinese warship pointed a laser at a Royal Australian military aircraft.

On Feb. 17, as an Australian P-8A Poseidon aircraft was monitoring a Chinese navy vessel in the Arafura Seain international waters but inside Australias exclusive economic zone, the Chinese warship reportedly aimed a military-grade laser at the Australian aircraft.

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) said such action could have put the lives of Defence personnel in danger, while then-Prime Minister Scott Morrison condemned it as an act of intimidation.
A Chinese migrant worker passes by the People's Bank of China in Beijing on May 1, 2013. (Mark Ralston/AFP)

Beijing Could Intervene to Stabilize Markets as Chinas Financial Risk Increases

Chinas economy is shrinking and financial risks increasing under the impact of zero-COVID policies and regional lockdowns across the country.

On March 25 the China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission (CBIRC) established the countrys first financial stability fund. Supplied by Chinas banks and other institutions, the fund is intended to help shield the country from financial risks.

Chinas State Council asked the Peoples Bank of China and other institutions to establish the fund no later than the end of September. To meet this deadline, the Peoples Bank issued the Financial Stability Law (Draft for Comments) on April 6, claiming this was necessary since the resolution of financial risks had become an eternal theme.

The severity of the financial risk was revealed on May 10 when the China Orient Asset Management Co. released its 2022 China Financial Non-Performing Assets Market Survey Report. It said the non-performing loan balances of commercial banks would continue to climb this year along with the non-performing rate. The increased pressure from the risk of loan defaults would also be felt by small and medium-sized banks, trust companies, real estate firms, and local financing entities.

According to Albert Song, a political and economic researcher with the Tianjun independent think tank, Chinas internal financial risks are significant, with multiple break-out points. One example, he said, was the debt crisis of real estate developers. The crisis has the potential to affect over 40 related industries that may already be saddled with heavy debts.

Further fueling the crisis is the high household debt ratios of Chinas residents, which are mainly mortgages.

He said, Under the situation of the economic downturn and the lockdown of cities due to the zero-COVID policy, these crises can break out at any time and are likely to have a knock-on effect.

Included in the May 16 issue of Qiushi magazine, the official journal of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), was a featured article authored by the CBIRCs Party Committee titled Perseverance in Preventing and Resolving Major Financial Risks. The article claimed more than 600 high-risk financial institutions had been closed or later restored in the past five years. Specifically named were the Baoshang Bank, Jinzhou Bank, Hengfeng Bank, and Liaoning City Commercial Bank.

The CBIRC also announced the framework for Chinas first Financial Stability Fund had been created after nearly $9.7 billion in startup funds had been raised.

Battle of the Silver Coins

The article also reiterated the so-called Battle of the Silver Coins and Battle of the Rice and Cotton, which were initiated by the CCP when they usurped power in 1949 and tried to replace the silver-based currency with the renminbi (RMB) and to control the market price of goods.

The Battle of the Silver Coins occurred on June 10, 1949. Shanghai army troops and police force surrounded and seized the securities building and arrested 250 people. The price of silver coins plummeted from 2,000 yuan to 1,200 yuan the next day, and the price of rice also dropped by 10 percent.

The Battle of Rice and Cotton occurred later, with the CCP trying to reduce the price of these two commodities in major cities such as Shanghai by transporting them from other locations.

To illustrate the significance of the two actions in helping establish communist power, the article said this was comparable to the three major battles between the CCP and the government of the Republic of China (ROC).

Albert Song provided additional insight on the CCPs past conflicts with the ROC during a May 20 interview with The Epoch Times. He said the Battle of the Silver Coins and the Battle of the Rice and Cotton were prompted by peoples distrust of the communist regime and its issuance of the renminbi. The CCP intervened through administrative orders and political means, suppressing national capitalists and businessmen.

In regards to the CBIRC article, Song said, The fact the CCP now reiterates these incidents reveals an intervention agenda and does not rule out similar actions, such as mandatory foreign currency settlements against some cities, economic and financial sectors.

He added, It could also significantly reduce the $50,000 annual exchange quota available to Chinese citizens for overseas travel and spending for education and other purposes.

The CCPs mandatory foreign currency settlements apply not only to private citizens but also to companies. China has a practice of allowing export companies to keep a portion of their foreign currency earnings for use in doing business.

A meeting was held on April 22 between the CCPs central bank, regulators, and senior managers from numerous domestic and international banks in China, according to the Financial Times. They met to explore how to minimize Chinas risks associated with international sanctions.

One of the options discussed included increasing onshore U.S. dollar holdings through mandatory foreign currency settlements, in which the CCPs central bank requires exporters to convert all foreign currency earnings into RMB.
Police seek to remove protesters lying under a model tank outside the Chinese Embassy during the 33rd Tiananmen Square massacre remembrance event in London on June 4, 2022. (Peter Simpson/The Epoch Times)

British Police Stand in Way of Tank Symbolising Tiananmen Square Protests

Hongkongers who fled the suppression of freedoms in their home city took part in an annual candlelit vigil outside the Chinese Embassy in London on Saturday to mark the 33rd anniversary of the Tiananmen Square massacre.

Over 2,000 people lit candles, listened to speechesincluding recordings from mothers of the thousands of 1989 victimsand held a minutes silence in what was believed to be the biggest remembrance event outside of the Chinese-speaking world.

Police twice prevented protesters placing a large, cardboard military tank outside the embassys doors.

Several demonstrators temporarily blocked the road outside the building in Portland Place, symbolically lying under the model tank painted with never forget June 4 in Chinese and daubed in red paint to signify blood.

Its not enough to just have speeches every year. We need the demonstrations to be louder and bolder if we are to protect the freedoms the CCP wants to take from everyone, not just from the Chinese in mainland China and Hong Kong but here in your country too, Hong Kong-born protester John Leung told The Epoch Times, referring to the Chinese Communist Party.

The annual remembrance memorial in London has grown in size over the past two years in part because of the arrival of Hongkongers seeking sanctuary in the UK under the British National (Overseas) program, which was drawn up in 2020 after Beijing imposed a national security law following mass dissent in the former UK colony.

Tens of thousands have already relocated to the UK and government officials estimate more than 320,000 people could take up the offer within five years.

The new arrivals who attended on Saturday gave this years memorial event a more strident atmosphere.

Many displayed Hong Kong independence and democracy flags and banners, and some wore masks to protect their identity, such is the fear among some that CCP agents have infiltrated their ranks.

It is not worth the risk. I have my familymy mum, dad and brotherand friends back there, and I know that if they can identify me, the CCP will alert agents to intimidate them. We have escaped Hong Kong and yes, we can still protest. But we have not escaped the fear, said a mask-wearing woman who gave her name as Shih.

They Will Never Kill Democracy

Muslim and Tibetan demonstrators were also present and held up banners demanding an end to the persecution of Uyghurs in Chinas Xinjiang province, and freedom for Tibet.

One of the main organisers, Yau Man Chun, a former Hong Kong Sha Tin District councillor who fled to the UK fearing arrest, led the rally-goers in chants including Free Hong Kong, Free the Uyghurs, and End the CCP.

Yau, who left for the UK eight months ago, told The Epoch Times: The Chinese Communist Party has become a global power and uses it influence to stamp out freedom. We have to show them they will never kill democracy.

Shao Jiang, a survivor of the 1989 Tiananmen massacre who lives and works in exile in London, described in a speech how he fled the tanks and went back to his Beida University dorm in Beijing to change his T-shirt which was covered in the blood of his fellow students.

He later told The Epoch Times: It would be very difficult for the students in todays China to rise up like we did. Such is the CCPs control, it would be very difficult to organise. So that is why civil society and democratic countries like the UK should be supporting at grassroots level to help the younger generations understand what happened during the Tiananmen Square massacre.

Among those speaking was Ma Jian, the celebrated dissident writer living in exile in the UK, and Benedict Rogers, the co-founder of UK-based human rights group, Hong Kong Watch.

Rogers described how the CCPs new national security law asserts sweeping extraterritorial reach, and how he is being sought by Beijing for colluding with a foreign country or with external elements to endanger national security.

In 1989, the CCP showed its true colours not for the first or last time, he told the memorial gathering.

Mourning Bloodshed, Celebrating Bravery

Rogers compared the remembrance of the Tiananmen Square massacre with the British Queen Elizabeths Platinum Jubilee celebrations which were also taking place in London.

He said: These are two starkly opposite anniversaries. One is a celebration of values, of public service, devotion to a country and its people, of love and compassion  But this anniversary that were commemorating right now is the exact opposite.

He added: We are mourning bloodshed and terrorbut we also celebrate the bravery and devotion of those who gave their lives [on June 4, 1989]. We contrast the styles of leadership over almost the same time period, 70 years.

But the CCP represents a hatred of freedom, a threat to life, an assault to human dignity, and a repression that all of us should continue to fight.

On the eve of the anniversary, a Tiananmen-related video was projected onto Tower Bridge in London.

The video also raised awareness of detained Hong Kong dissidents including media tycoon Jimmy Lai.

Slogans such as Free Hong Kong, Free Tibet, and Free Uyghurs were also shown on the iconic bridge, which is close to the new Chinese Embassy at Royal Mint Court.

Chinese Embassy staff are in the process of moving to the larger premises in the east of the city, which will become Chinas largest overseas mission.

The Epoch Times has contacted the UK Chinese Embassy for comment.
The Federal Aviation Administration announced one more delay for the release of its environmental assessment of the SpaceX plans to launch its new Starship with Super Heavy rocket on an orbital test flight from Texas.

In a release Tuesday, the FAA said it was planning to release its final Programmatic Environmental Assessment (PEA) on June 13, two weeks later than its last target of May 31.

The FAA originally planned on releasing its Programmatic Environmental Assessment (PEA) of the proposed flight at the end of 2021, but has issued of a series of delays for the report after getting thousands of responses to the plan during a public comment period last year. The latest delay cites ongoing interagency consultation.

Previous delays cited the sheer amount of public input.

SpaceX made multiple changes to its application that require additional FAA analysis, the agency stated in a press release earlier this year. The agency continues to review around 18,000 general public comments.

Elon Musks plans to get an orbital test flight underway from the companys southeast Texas launch facility cant move forward without the PEA. Even then, that review doesnt guarantee an OK for SpaceX to fly either, as Musk and others have stated that it could pave the way for a more intense Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) that could delay any Texas launch plans beyond 2022. The FAA has cautioned that the company also needs to meet FAA safety, risk and financial responsibility requirements.

If faced with an EIS, Musk has said plans for the Starship launch may need to shift in the short-term to Kennedy Space Center, where work continues on hardware to support the new rocket from KSCs Launch Pad 39-A, the current home to SpaceXs Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy launches.

In the meantime, SpaceX posted images of the rollout of Starship 24 at the Texas site launch pad this past weekend. Its the first time new Starship hardware has rolled out for testing since August 2021.

Musk said in February he expects what would be the most powerful rocket to ever launch from the Earth still to have its first flight by the end of the year, even if it has to shift to Florida.

To date, the company has flown prototype versions of Starship without the booster to about 6 miles altitude, and attempted landings back in Texas, sometimes with fiery results. Those used only three or fewer of the new, powerful Raptor engines. The fully working orbital version will be coupled with a Super Heavy booster with 39 Raptor engines, 33 on the booster and six on Starship.

The plan for the next test flight, though, if it were to lift off from Texas, seeks to launch a stacked version of Starship and Super Heavy, have them separate, return the booster to land on a SpaceX vessel 20 miles offshore in the Gulf of Mexico while Starship achieves orbit for least one trip around the Earth and then lands in the Pacific Ocean.

Texas remains SpaceXs preferred location for continued testing of Starship.

Because we have a lot of launches going out of the Cape we didnt want to disrupt the Cape activity  the operational launches  with the advance R&D of Starship, Musk said in February. So it was important to decouple the operational launches from the R&D launches. Thats why were at this location.

2022 is proving to be the busiest yet for SpaceX for its existing stable of rockets including 22 launches through the first 21 weeks of the year.

Musk has said the company could hit as many as 60 in a calendar year, nearly doubling 2021s record of 31 seen across KSC, Cape Canaveral Space Force Station and Vandenberg Space Force Base sites.

So a shift to KSC for Starship testing could prove complicated.

When it does launch, the Starship and Super Heavy combo would generate more than 16 million pounds of thrust. That nearly doubles the power of NASAs planned Artemis flights and more than doubles those of the Apollo missions.

Immediate plans for Starship are for Starlink satellite delivery to add to the companys growing constellation of internet satellites, as well as to develop a version to assist NASA in getting humans back on the moon by 2025. Also upcoming is a tourist flight to orbit the moon funded by a Japanese fashion tycoon whos taking along several artists.

The main purpose for its development, though, is eventually to help create a self-sustaining colony on Mars.

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California County Reinstates Indoor COVID-19 Mask Mandate

Alameda County in Californias Bay Area is now requiring residents to wear face masks in most indoor public settings, citing the rising number of CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus infections and hospitalizations.

The mask mandate came into effect on June 3. The rule is not applicable in K-12 school settings. However, the county still recommended masking. In all other public places involving children and youth, which includes summer school, child care, and youth programs, the mask mandate will be in effect.

The number of COVID-19 cases being reported daily has now exceeded the peak of last summers Delta wave, the Alameda County Health Care Services Agency said in a June 2 press release.

Case numbers are now at a level seen during the COVID-19 wave from winter 202021, the county stated. Daily new hospitalizations from COVID-19 have now exceeded last summers peak, with the county now expecting to reach the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Preventions (CDC) High COVID-19 Community Level if the current trend continues.

Rising COVID cases in Alameda County are now leading to more people being hospitalized and todays action reflects the seriousness of the moment, said Alameda County Health Officer Dr. Nicholas Moss.

We cannot ignore the data, and we cant predict when this wave may end. Putting our masks back on gives us the best opportunity to limit the impact of a prolonged wave on our communities.

The total number of COVID-19 cases in Alameda County during the previous 14 days, as of May 28, was 10,918, up from 1,675 on March 28. This represents an over 6.5 times increase in cases during a two-month period.

Alameda has become the first county in California to reinstate mask requirements. However, not many Alameda residents know that mask mandates have once more come into effect.

I dont think people know. I had no idea. None of my friends have said anything. I dont think my family knows. People still seem not to be masked inside stores, one resident said to ABC News after shopping at a store.

There was hardly anyone inside the store wearing masks. Neither did the store post any signs saying that face masks are required, he said.

Though Alameda County officials are projecting face masks as a necessity to combat rising COVID-19 cases, several studies have dismissed such a claim.

One study looked at mask mandates in Spain among children and concluded that the policy was not effective in stopping the transmission of the COVID-9 virus.

The study shows that there was not a significant decrease in transmission on the courses that were masked (6 to 11 y.o.) when comparing to those that were not (3 to 5), Clara Prats, one of the authors of the study, told The Epoch Times.

Another study published in April last year found that prolonged use of face masks had a correlation with headaches, fatigue, respiratory impairment, etc., among those who wore them.
A caution sign is posted at the Castaic Lake reservoir in Los Angeles County in Castaic, California, on May 3, 2022. (Mario Tama/Getty Images)

California Needs More Water Infrastructure to Ease Shortage: Expert

A former water utility director said the California and federal government are to blame for the states water shortage issues, since the states infrastructure has not kept up with demand.

The State of California and the Feds are largely responsible, because we have not continued with the building of our water infrastructure, said Brett Barbre, former director of the Municipal Water District of Orange County, during an interview with EpochTVs California Insider program.

Barbre said that the major dams and reservoirs that serve Californians were largely built in the last century.

If you look at our infrastructure, major facilities, the last major reservoir was built by metropolitan in Southern California 1999.  We really have not kept up with the population growth, he said in the interview.

Meanwhile, some parts of California have become very water-efficient, serving as a model for how the rest of the state can help maximize its water use, Barbre said.

We use our water multiple times in Orange County. We take the sewer flows and we recycle it, put it back in the groundwater basin and pump it out. Were very efficient with the use of that waterthe rest of the state not so much, he said.

There are several issues that prevent California from expanding water storage, he said, for example the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and other environmental efforts can halt efforts to build reservoirs.

When CEQA went into effect, thats been used effectively to stop these big projects. And thats really hurt society, he said. Were requiring a lot of water releases to make sure [protected fish species] can get back downstream. There are communities where theyre told you cant grow your food this year, you cant have domestic water, because we need to release it for the fish.

For example, the Sites Reservoir was proposed in the 1980s and would have served to capture stormwater and flood flows north of Sacramento. However, the project was opposed by many environmental groups, including Sierra Club California. To date, the reservoir still hasnt been built.

Bill Diedrich, farmer and president of the California Farm Water Coalition agrees with Barbre about urging the government to invest more on building new water infrastructures to ease the water shortage.

Californias water infrastructure is old and failing, he wrote in a recent commentary for CalMatters.

Both the lack of infrastructure and failing infrastructure are major reasons hundreds of thousands of Californians, most in rural and disadvantaged communities, lack access to clean drinking water.

He emphasized that governments must move forward now on both short- and long-term projects.

The state has imposed stronger water restrictions this year than ever before as California is experiencing the driest year on record. On June 1, one-third of Southern Californians were limited to outdoor watering to one day a week.

Adel Hagekhalil, general manager for the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, the largest wholesale drinking water agency in the country, said all outdoor watering could be banned if the water supply conditions worsen in the coming months.

Metropolitan has never before employed this type of restriction on outdoor water use. But we are facing unprecedented reductions in our Northern California supplies, and we have to respond with unprecedented measures, Hagekhalil said in a statement.

However, Barbre believes that all of these problems can be solved if theres enough water storage built in California.

So if we had more storagewe probably just need maybe 5 or 6 million acre feet more storageif we had that, wed withstand any drought. We wouldnt need to do conservation. People could have grass if they wanted. They could have trees, they could have cactus, whatever they want, Barbre said.
CDC Sending Vaccines to People Suspected of Monkeypox Exposure

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is distributing vaccines to Americans who are suspected of having been exposed to the monkeypox virus.

We want to ensure that people with high-risk exposures have rapid access to vaccines and, if they become sick, can receive appropriate treatment. To date, weve delivered around 1,200 vaccines  and 100 treatment courses to eight jurisdictions, and we have more to offer states, said Dr. Raj Panjabi, White House senior director for global health security and biodefense, according to CNN.

One of the first groups to receive the vaccines was made up of health care workers in Massachusetts treating monkeypox patients.

Last week, CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky said the United States had been preparing for a viral infection such as monkeypox for several decades. As such, the government has millions of vaccine doses in the strategic national stockpile.

On June 3, Dawn OConnell, who heads the Health and Human Services office responsible for the strategic national stockpile, said the country has enough vaccines to deal with the present monkeypox infections.

Currently, the United States has two vaccines to deal with monkeypox. The first is ACAM2000, which is primarily restricted for use in military personnel because of safety risks such as blindness, fetal death, encephalitis, vaccine shedding, myocarditis, and pericarditis at a rate of 5.7 per 1,000 vaccinated, and death.

The second vaccine, Jynneos, was approved for use in 2019 and is produced by a Danish biotech company, Bavarian Nordic. The United States has ordered more than 30 million Jynneos doses since 2010, of which 28 million have expired. The vaccine doses have a three-year shelf life.

The CDC is asking health care providers to be alert for patients with rashes that are consistent with monkeypox.

There were a total of 25 confirmed monkeypox cases across the United States as of June 3. California and New York had the highest number of cases, with five patients each, followed by Florida with three, and Colorado, Illinois, and Utah with two each.

Georgia, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington each had one confirmed case, data from the CDC show.

According to the agency, early data suggest that gay and bisexual people make up most of the cases.

Anyone can get monkeypox, and we are carefully monitoring for monkeypox that may be spreading in any population, including those who are not identifying as men who have sex with men, Jennifer McQuiston, the CDCs deputy director of the Division of High Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, said during a recent media briefing, according to Reuters.

More than 120 PCR tests have been conducted across the United States while monitoring the monkeypox infection. According to Panjabi, 67 labs across 46 states have the collective ability to carry out more than 1,000 tests per day.

The CDC is aware of 700 monkeypox cases across the world outside of some parts of Africa. Not a single death has been reported as of yet. The World Health Organization (WHO) isnt recommending any mass vaccinations against the virus.

The World Council for Health (WCH), an independent nonprofit initiative, has accused the WHO of using non-scientific speculation regarding monkeypox to justify further human rights violations. The case definitions of monkeypox are set up perfectly to mask COVID-19 vaccine injury symptoms, such as the increasing prevalence of shingles following the inoculation jab, according to WCH Co-chair of the Health and Humanities Committee Robert Verkerk.

Correction: Verkerk is not the founder of the WCH. The Epoch Times regrets the error.
The U.S. Census logo appears on census materials received in the mail with an invitation to fill out census information online in San Anselmo, Calif., on March 19, 2020. (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

Census Bureau Sued Over Intrusive Annual Survey Questions

Citizens argue federal law doesn't allow government to punish people for refusing to answer 100-question American Community Survey

Two U.S. citizens have filed a class-action lawsuit against the Census Bureau, claiming the long, detailed American Community Survey the agency requires millions to complete each year is illegal.

The lawsuit comes as the U.S. Census Bureau comes under fire for significant miscounts in the 2020 census, with population numbers in six states being undercounted, while eight states saw an overcount in population. Republicans say the botched census count unfairly prevented Florida and Texas from each gaining a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives.

President Donald Trump tried to prevent the counting of illegal aliens so they wouldnt have an effect on the apportionment of political power among the states. The Supreme Court sided with him on Dec. 28, 2020, allowing the Trump administration to attempt to carry out its policy as the deadline for census figures was approaching. But on the day he was inaugurated, President Joe Biden signed Executive Order 13986, which reversed the Trump policy.

The 22-page legal complaint (pdf) in the new case, Murphy v. Raimondo, 3:22-cv-5377, was filed on May 24 in Tacoma in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington. The case has been assigned to U.S. District Judge David G. Estudillo, who was appointed in September of last year by Biden.

The plaintiffs are U.S. citizens Maureen Murphy and John Huddleston. Murphy lives in Gig Harbor, Washington; Huddleston resides in Susanville, California.

The defendants are U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo and Director of the Bureau of the Census Robert Santos. Both are being sued in their official capacities. The U.S. Department of Commerce and the Bureau also are named as defendants.

Murphy and Huddleston dont object to the normal census carried out nationwide every 10 years, which is fairly simple and designed to count people for congressional redistricting; they object to the much more detailed American Community Survey (ACS), which gathers information they say isnt necessary for the census.

The enumeration clause in the U.S. Constitution states that an Enumeration shall be made every 10 years in such Manner as Congress shall by Law direct. Congress authorized the Census to be carried out in Title 13 of the United States Code.

The Census Bureaus website states that its against the law to disclose or publish any private information that identifies an individual or business and that the personal information collected cannot be used against respondents by any government agency or court. Bureau employees are sworn for life to protect the information gathered. Violating the law can lead to as many as five years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000, or both.

Unlike the once-a-decade census, the ACS is conducted every year and asks detailed and personal questions such as the persons sexual orientation, gender identity, fertility history, marital status, and divorce history, according to the legal complaint.

Other questions posed in the survey concern whether the household has internet access, how many cars the inhabitants own, whether the occupants receive food stamps, how many and which languages the occupants speak, and details of the occupants physical, mental, or emotional conditions such as deafness or blindness, and any difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions, walking or climbing, dressing or bathing, or running errands.

The ACS queries respondents about private health information, including whether the occupants have health insurance, and the effect of medical and psychological conditions on the individuals daily activities. It also asks how much households pay in taxes and for utilities. It even asks how many beds, cars, and washing machines the household has  [and] contains about 100 such questions.

Unlike the 10-year census, which everyone has to answer, the Census Bureau chooses a sample of a few million households each year to answer the ACS. Individuals who decline to answer this detailed questionnaire face fines of up to $5,000 per question, the complaint states.

Murphy and Huddleston were selected to complete the ACS.

They understand the importance of the decennial Census. They have in the past and will continue in the future to answer the ten-year Census. But they oppose the highly detailed and personal information demanded in the American Community Survey and have refused to answer it, the complaint reads.

As a result, they are subject to monetary fines for doing nothing more than keeping the private details of their lives private.

Murphy and Huddleston argue that the Census Bureau doesnt have the statutory or constitutional authority to compel them to answer the detailed, intrusive questions of the ACS, the complaint states.

The Census Bureau does not have the authority to compel Americans to divulge any information it sees fit, beyond whats needed for the 10-year census, said attorney Adi Dynar of the Pacific Legal Foundation, a national public interest law firm headquartered in Sacramento, California, that is representing the plaintiffs.

Congress has not authorized the Census Bureau to impose criminal penalties and fines for refusing to answer their intrusive, deeply personal questions, Dynar said in a statement.

Officials at the Department of Commerce and the Census Bureau didnt respond by press time to a request by The Epoch Times for comment.
Undated file photo showing a group of people thought to be illegal immigrants are brought in to Dover, Kent, England. (Gareth Fuller/PA Media)

Charity Accuses UK Government of Trying to Deport Unaccompanied Minors to Rwanda

The UK government was accused by a charity on June 4 of attempting to deport two underage boys to Rwanda.

Care4Calais, a refugee charity that said it was working with 70 of the 100 people who had received the governments notices of intention to send them to Rwanda, said the Home Office didnt properly assess the ages of two young males, both of whom claimed they were 16 years old.

But the Home Office said no one would be sent to Rwanda if it wasnt safe to do so and that adults claiming to be children was a serious safeguarding risk.

According to the charity, the Home Office assessed the two individuals to be 23 and 26 years old. The charity also said its lawyers would fight for proper age assessments before the duo can be put on a plane.

It is essential that proper age assessments are done before any deportation takes place, Care4Calais said in a statement.

Our lawyers will fight for that. One 16-year-old saw his brother killed in front of him when his village was raided in Sudan. He escaped and went back later to find the whole village gone.

Another charity, Love146 UK, claimed that the Home Office had been arbitrarily putting down other young peoples ages as 23, making them eligible for deportation to Rwanda.

We are seeing children as young as 14 being incorrectly age-assessed as 23. The number of children we have seen who have just had 1999 put down as their date of birth when they are clearly under 18 is highly concerning, and putting young people at risk, campaigns manager Daniel Sohege told The Guardian.

Lauren Starkey, a social worker for the charity, told the publication, It is not within the realm of possibility that anyone, especially someone trained in child protection, could look at the children we have seen and believe they are in their 20s.

In an email to The Epoch Times, a Home Office spokesperson said: Our world-leading partnership with Rwanda is a key part of our strategy to overhaul the broken asylum system and break the evil people smugglers business model.

No one will be sent to Rwanda if it is not safe to do so. Adults passing themselves off as children is a serious safeguarding risk and in almost two-thirds of disputed cases from March 202122, the person was found to be over 18.

Where a person has no credible evidence of their age, a thorough age assessment process will be followed. They will be treated as though they are a child until a decision on their age has been made.

Home Secretary Priti Patel talking to the media in Green Park, central London, on June 1, 2022. (James Manning/PA Media)

The British government in April signed a deal allowing the UK to put illegal immigrants on one-way flights to Rwanda, where they can be granted asylum or given access to other routes of settling down.

Official guidance (pdf) said an individual who fears mistreatment in Rwanda over their political associations or view can avoid being shipped to the east African country if they can demonstrate how and why they would likely attract the negative attention of the Rwandan authorities.

Unaccompanied under-18s arriving in the UK will not be considered for relocation to Rwanda either, according to official guidance.

Its unclear what the age assessment processes were regarding the two disputed cases, but the Home Office guidance on age assessment said a claimant without documentation should be treated as an adult if a Merton compliant age assessment and Home Office officials both find the claimant to be 18 or over; or if two Home Office staff, including at least a high-ranking one, have independently assessed that the claimant is an adult because their physical appearance and demeanour very strongly suggests that they are significantly over 18 years of age and there is little or no supporting evidence for their claimed age.

The guidance also said that its not currently the departments policy to commission paediatrician reports, dental age assessments, or X-ray reports. If these reports are submitted, they must be fully considered alongside any other relevant evidence and given appropriate weight.

The Home Office has said the first flight to Rwanda is expected to take off on June 14. According to Care4Calais, nine people theyre supporting have received notices saying theyre to be deported on that date, while 13 were told their deportation is imminent.

The charity also said there had been a five-day hunger strike and its workers had had numerous late night conversations with people who feel suicidal.

The government previously said the Rwanda policy is aimed at deterring dangerous people-smuggling across the English Channel on flimsy boats. It also argued that migrants coming from Europe on these boats can and should apply for asylum in the first safe country they pass through.

But Care4Calais argued that people smugglers would be put out of business overnight if the UK gave all refugees visas to cross the Channel, in the same way we do with Ukrainians.
Chicago Man Arrested in Shootings of US Marshal, Police Dog

CHICAGOA Chicago man was charged in the shootings of a U.S. marshal and his police dog who were wounded while serving an arrest warrant, police said Saturday.

Tarrion Johnson, 19, faces charges of attempted murder, attempted robbery with a firearm, aggravated cruelty to animals and injury to a police animal, the Chicago Police Department said.

Johnson was scheduled for bond court appearance Saturday, the department said. It was not immediately clear if he has an attorney who could speak on his behalf.

Police said Johnson was arrested Thursday shortly after he allegedly shot an officer with the U.S. Marshals Services fugitive apprehension team and his federal police dog. Authorities at the time said two gunmen were arrested, but Chicago police did not say anything about the second person in announcing the charges against Johnson on Saturday.

Police said a Chicago officer returned fire during the shooting but did not strike anyone.

After Thursdays shooting, the federal marshal rushed the dog to a veterinary clinic, Chicago Fire Department spokesman Larry Langford said.

The marshal then realized he had been shot in his hand and an ambulance was called but the officer declined to be taken to a hospital, Langford told the Chicago Sun-Times.

The U.S. Marshals Service said the police dog was in the intensive care unit of an emergency veterinary hospital on Friday, WLS-TV reported.
Children are silhouetted in front of posters of the Justice and Protection against Sex Trafficking of Children and Young People campaign in 2010. (Jay Directo/AFP/Getty Images)

Delaware Man Sentenced to 21 Years for Sex Trafficking Minors in Mid-Atlantic Region: DOJ

A Delaware man was sentenced to 21 years in prison on Thursday for sex trafficking minors and young adults throughout the mid-Atlantic region, including southeastern Pennsylvania and Delaware.

Anthony Jones, 38, of Wilmington, Delaware, was convicted in April 2019 following a 14-day trial, according to a June 2 press release by the Justice Department. He was found guilty of of conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking of minors by force, fraud or coercion, and of sex trafficking three minors by force, fraud or coercion following an investigation that began in 2016 when police rescued minors advertised on a sex-ad platform.

The platform has since been shut down by the FBI. Seven individuals connected to the prostitution-promoting website were charged in a 93-count federal indictment in 2018. At the time, it was the second-largest classified service after Craigslist.

Jones, along with co-defendants Dkyle Bridges and Kristian Jones, ran a prostitution ring and trafficked girls and young women throughout the region. Bridges was the leader, and used threats and force to intimidate the victims to engage in indecent acts, while Jones and Kristian Jones provided security and booked hotel rooms.

Jones and his co-conspirators have been sentenced to 10 years of supervised release besides the prison term. He is ordered pay $15,160 in restitution to the victims.

Bridges, sentenced last year, was sentenced to 35 years, and ordered to pay $53,000, while Kristian Jones will have to spend 20 years in prison and pay $15,160 in restitution.

The 2016 investigation began when a Tinicum Township police officer questioned a man coming out of a hotel that was known to engage in prostitution.

The man admitted to meeting the prostitute and arranging the date through the platform. Upon entry into the hotel room booked by Anthony Jones, law enforcement found Kristian Jones along with two minor girls and cell phones containing complicit communication about the sex trafficking conspiracy.

The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, an initiative that began in 2006 to reduce the number of children who are victims of child sexual exploitation. It began with the intent to protect children from online exploitation, and has since expanded to include all federal child sexual exploitation offenses.

Studies have shown that one in five children per year receives an unwanted sexual solicitation online and at any given time, 50,000 predators are on the Internet actively seeking out children, according to the projects page.
Peter Navarro, former trade adviser to President Donald Trump, speaks to reporters as he departs U.S. District Court after he was indicted on two counts of contempt of Congress for his failure to comply with a subpoena from the House of Representatives committee investigating the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol, in Washington on June 3, 2022. (Kevin Lamarque/Reuters)

Ex-Trump Aide Peter Navarro: Feds Put Me in Leg Irons After Contempt-of-Congress Charges

Former White House aide Peter Navarro said that federal agents put me in leg irons after he was charged with contempt of Congress for refusing to comply with a House panel investigating the Jan. 6 Capitol breach.

While speaking outside a federal courthouse in Washington on Friday, Navarro asked: Who are these people? This is not America  I was a distinguished public servant for four years.

Navarro told reporters that he wasnt informed that he needed to turn himself in, and was instead arrested by an FBI agent while trying to get on a flight in Nashville.

They put me in leg irons, they stuck me in a cell, by the way. Just a historical noteI was in John Hinckleys cell, Navarro said. They seemed to think that that was like an important historical note. Thats punitive. What they did to me today violated the Constitution.

Hinckley, who was recently granted unsupervised release from prison, attempted to assassinate former President Ronald Regan in the early 1980s.

The 72-year-old added that he wouldnt hire an attorney while alleging he was mistreated by the Department of Justice.

Peter Navarro, former trade adviser to President Donald Trump, speaks to reporters as he departs U.S. District Court after he was indicted on two counts of contempt of Congress for his failure to comply with a subpoena from the House of Representatives committee investigating the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol, in Washington on June 3, 2022. (Kevin Lamarque/Reuters)

On Wednesday, I reached out to the Justice Department. I offered them a possible way forward, Navarro added to reporters. They responded with effectively the same kind of thing as you see in Stalins Russia or the Chinese Communist Party.

Im representing myself pro se because I do not want to be dragged down in the muck spending hundreds of thousands of dollars in my retirement savings on this kind of venture, he added.

Earlier in the day, the Department of Justice announced the indictment against Navarro. The former adviser to President Donald Trump had sued the department several days before that in a bid to quash the House committees subpoena.

Repeated abuses by partisans and political score-settlers like those on the Committee have institutionalized a partisan weaponization of Congress investigatory powers that now threatens the delicate balance and separation of powers between the legislative, judicial, and executive branches of our government, Navarro wrote in a court filing.

Former White House adviser Steve Bannon was indicted in November by a federal grand jury on two counts of contempt of Congress after he refused to testify before the House panel. Bannon hadnt worked in the Trump administration for years by the time of the Jan. 6 breach.

Republicans and Trump have criticized the Democrat-led House panelwhich includes only Reps. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.) and Adam Kinzinger (R-Ill.), who have both frequently attacked Trump in the media, from the Republican sideas being an apparatus to carry out a partisan witch hunt. In 2021, Trump accused the committee of trying to distract Americans from focusing on the Biden administrations failures.

Navarro also accused the panel of being a kangaroo court, saying the subpoenas are unlawful and unenforceable. He added that the Jan. 6 committee should never have been formed.

The Epoch Times has contacted Navarro for comment. The Department of Justice has not responded to a request for comment as of press time.
FBI Director Christopher Wray speaks to members of Congress in Washington on May 25, 2022. (Bonnie Cash/Pool/AFP via Getty Images)

FBI Has Secure Workspace in Law Firm That Represents Democrats: Document

The FBI has a workspace in the same law firm that employed the lawyer who took sketchy claims about Donald Trump and Russia to the bureau in 2016, the firm revealed in a new document.

The workspace, known as a secure work environment, within Perkins Coies office in Washington was cleared by the FBI on March 26, 2012, and has been in continuous operation since then, Michael Bopp, an attorney representing Perkins Coie, told members of Congress in a May 25 letter that was reviewed by The Epoch Times.

Whats more, Michael Sussmann, the lawyer who took the claims against Trump to the FBIs nearby headquarters ahead of the 2016 election, had access to the workspace through July 2021, according to the missive.

The workspace was created in 2011 and includes a General Services Administration-approved security container and a key locker, both of which were paid for by Perkins Coie. It also features a secure telephone, a fax machine, and a security token card, each of which is owned by the bureau.

The workspace is maintained by Perkins Coie and periodically inspected by the FBI to ensure the space is operating in accordance with the requisite standards, according to the letter.

The Democrat Partys law firm  has this co-located workspace that they operate in concert with the FBI. Why in the world would that be the case? Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) said on Fox News, which first reported on the letter sent to Gaetz and Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio).

The FBI indicated that the workspace is lawful and that its meant to shield classified documents from the bulk of workers at Perkins Coie and other companies that have similar spaces.

The FBI complies with the law and security policies and works with the Department of Justice to serve classified, Court-authorized legal process [sic] necessary to support national security investigations, an FBI spokesperson told The Epoch Times in an email.

Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) speaks during a hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, on July 29, 2020. (Graeme Jennings/Pool via Reuters)

Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) walks in a courtroom in Atlanta, Ga., on April 22, 2022. (John Bazemore/Pool/Getty Images)

In certain instances, the FBI coordinates with non-government, third-party entities, such as law firms, that represent service providers which receive these classified Court orders. This includes providing access to private attorneys which represent the service providers in satisfaction of their legal rights. As part of this, the FBI ensures that any storage of classified orders meets stringent security protocols required for such documents.

Gaetz said he consulted with former federal prosecutors, who informed him they had never heard of a similar relationship.

Our concern is that politically motivated dirt was being converted into politically motivated investigations, he said.

The lawmakers want the facility shut down.

Perkins Coie didnt respond to requests for comment. The FBI didnt answer when asked whether the bureau had considered closing the facility.

According to the letter, the facility is operating under a modified arrangement. That disclosure came in response to a question about whether the same arrangement remained in place after Sussmann resigned from the firm in September 2021.

Sussmann was charged that month with lying to the FBI. The lawyer handed over data and white papers claiming there was a secret link between Trumps business and a Russian bank just weeks before the 2016 election. Sussmann was representing the campaign of Hillary Clinton, Trumps rival, at the time. The FBI determined the data didnt support the allegations, and the CIA later reached a similar conclusion. Sussmann told an FBI lawyer he was acting on his own accord, but later told Congress he was acting on behalf of a client. He was acquitted on May 31.

Sussmann was well-known throughout the FBI. He worked closely with the bureau in its investigation of the intrusion into Democrat entities networks and even had an FBI badge that gave him access to the bureaus headquarters, which he used when meeting with the bureau lawyer.

FBI Director Christopher Wray, a Trump appointee, was pressed during a Senate hearing on May 25 about Sussmann by Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), who questioned why Sussmann had the badge and why the FBI kept his identity secret from agents who investigated the allegations.

Wray said he couldnt answer the questions because Sussmanns trial wasnt over.

Because Ive got agents working with [special counsel John] Durham on the case, and theyre in the middle of trial right now, I just dont think I can get into a discussion of that here, Wray said.
The carriages of a derailed regional train near the Bavarian town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany, early morning on June 4, 2022. (Vifogra/Haubner via Reuters)

Fifth Person Found Dead After German Train Derailment

BERLINEmergency workers found another body under the rubble of a train that derailed in southern Germany on Friday, bringing the total number of fatalities to five, police said on Saturday.

Another 44 people were hurt in the derailment, with some suffering from serious injuries, local police said in a tweet.

After several failed attempts, cranes succeeded on Saturday in hoisting at least one carriage of the train which had rolled off the tracks. Regional and national politicians visited the site and expressed their shock.

Officials are still investigating the cause of the derailment in the picturesque mountainous region north of Garmisch-Partenkirchen in Bavaria.
By Trend

China will launch a spacecraft on Sunday carrying three astronauts to the core module of the unfinished Chinese space station, where they will work and live for six months as construction enters advanced stages, Trend reports with reference to Reuters.

A Long March-2F rocket carrying the Shenzhou-14 spacecraft is set to blast off from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in the northwestern province of Gansu at 10:44 a.m. local time (0244 GMT) on Sunday, a China Manned Space Agency official told a news conference on Saturday.

Mission commander Chen Dong will be accompanied by Liu Yang and Cai Xuzhe aboard Shenzhou, meaning "Divine Vessel" in Chinese.

"All preparations for the launch are basically ready," said Lin Xiqiang, an agency official.

Shenzhou-14 will be the third of four crewed missions - and the seventh of a total of 11 missions - needed to complete the space station by the end of the year.

China began constructing its three-module space station in April 2021 with the launch of Tianhe - the first and biggest of the station's three modules.

Tianhe, slightly larger than a metro bus, will form the living quarters of visiting astronauts once the T-shaped space station is completed.

Following Shenzhou-14, the remaining two modules - the laboratory cabins Wentian and Mengtian - will be launched in July and October, respectively.

Wentian will feature a robotic arm, an airlock cabin for trips outside of the station, and living quarters for an additional three astronauts during crew rotations.

The Shenzhou-14 crew will help with the setup of Wentian and Mengtian and conduct functionality tests on both modules.

The space station will have a designed lifespan of a decade. At 180 tonnes, it will be slightly heavier than Russia's decommissioned Mir, and about 20% of the International Space Station by mass.
TO: All Media Outlets

FROM: Lloyd Chafed, Euphemism Consultant, The Office of Tourism Marketing

SUBJECT: Compulsory Moratorium

Effective immediately and until further notice, all media personnel are prohibited from using the word hot to describe the current temperature.

In my previous memorandum I sought the collegial support of you, my media colleagues, in asking for a voluntary moratorium on your use of the word hot. I offered a playful challenge to stimulate a search for apt euphemisms. I must say that your responses via email and voice mail reflect a disturbing adolescent disregard for the decorum attendant to the profession of journalism. In all sincerity, there are some of you  and you know who you are  who would benefit from anger-management counseling.

That said, perhaps it will be helpful to first list here those cliches whose departure from the repertoire of any self-respecting writer should be cause for rejoicing. Even if todays temperature is hotter than a pepper sprout, blue blazes, Heck, the hinges of Heck, a fox in a forest fire, a two-dollar pistol, even if its hot enough to fry an egg on the sidewalk or to roast an ox, to quote Buster Poindexter, Hot, hot, hot, shall not be how you will describe it.

Surely, we can all agree that hot has connotations that are not conducive to attracting tourists. Who in their right mind would want to pay $500 a night only to risk sunstroke walking from their car if they knew beforehand that it was going to be a hot one today.

Whos to say 112 degrees is hot? You give them the number and you tell them today will be warm. Warm is a nice word, a soft word, like Mom. You tell somebody its going to be warm today, theyre going to be reassured, their spirits will be lifted. They will believe there is hope. They will shop at the mall.

Is that so bad? Is anybody hurt?

Affirm its hot enough to melt an anvil, however, and before you can say patio-mister theyll be watching TV at home and ordering curtains online.

Even if its the 23 day of triple-digit temperatures, simply say, The warming trend continues.

Some of you have intimated that what we here at the Office of Tourism Marketing are suggesting is deceitful. I assure you no one in this office would encourage the publication of a falsehood. What we are simply suggesting is alternative language to describe the mercury level on a thermometer.

Also, please avoid adverbs such as suffocatingly or extremely to describe the warmth about which you write or broadcast. Avoid, too, please, scorcher, blast furnace, roaster.

Sultry and torrid are OK. They have an exotic, even  dare I say  an alluring and provocative connotation that is good for bringing in the tourist bucks. Its going to be warm and sultry and torrid today; why not visit The Deer Farm?"

Avoid, too, if you will, these modifiers: blistering, boiling, burning, parched, scorching, simmering, scalding.

Remember  warm is good. Warm is nice. Warm is close enough.

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A mainland Chinese student pays tribute to the June 4 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown in the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) campus, where Goddess of Democracy statue had been situated and was removed last year. (Doris Lee/HK Epochtimes)

Flower Tribute to Tiananmen Square Massacre at Site of Removed-Statue on Campus in Hong Kong

Mainland China student shows his commitment to commemorating June 4.

A mainland Chinese student paid tribute to the June 4, 1989, Tiananmen Square massacre in the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) campus, where the Goddess of Democracy statue had been situated before being removed last year. He believed that mainland Chinese should be more responsible for commemoration of the suppression.

Mr. Li, a CUHK student who commemorated with flowers at the former site of the statue, felt that the statue would stay in his heart forever.

Also he pointed out that mainland Chinese should be more responsible in commemorating the massacre. However, the contrary has been the case as the massacre is mainly commemorated by Hongkongers and Taiwanese people. Even his classmates in China did not know about the crackdown.

My nationality is mainland Chinese and I believe that this is the reason why I bear more responsibility to commemorate it, he said.

Mr. Li expressed his concern while he was planning to buy flowers for the commemoration.

Are there any policemen or security guards to stop me from placing the flowers at the site of the now-removed statue? It was such a relief when I arrived at the site and saw there were flowers already [in place]there were still like-minded people.

He said that he was able to know about the massacre after coming to study in Hong Kong. He learnt it from seminars, teachers, and his peers.

Despite that, he already knew there was a student democracy movement in 1989.

He recalled that he participated in the candlelight vigil in 2019 at Victoria Park, where the traditional candlelight vigils took place, as an annual memorial for the massacre.

And at the beginning of the Anti-extradition Law Amendment Bill Movement in 2019, he read the campaign advertisement about the June 4 assembly and the June 9 demonstration.

Hong Kong had more freedom at that time. These protests and movements are not allowed in mainland China. I came to Hong Kong and thought that Hong Kong probably belonged to part of the western culture, therefore I wanted to participate, feeling peoples rights were empowered by a democratic society, Mr. Li explained.

However, the annual assemblies in the following years were banned by the Hong Kong Government.

Even with no public gathering allowed, Mr. Li believed that for those who care about the massacre, they will still commemorate in their own ways by themselves.

Mr. Li will return to mainland China after graduation and he will continue to commemorate the massacre.

I may try different ways to commemorate, maybe by myself or by organising a small memorial event, he mentioned.

Removed-Goddess of Democracy Statue Stays Forever

Without any prior notice, the Goddess of Democracy statue was removed by CUHK before dawn on December 24 last year.

Based on a similar one erected amid the pro-democracy protest in Beijing 1989, the Goddess of Democracy statue was made and is one of the significant symbols of the related commemoration in Hong Kong.

Last year in Hong Kong, not only was the Pillar of Shame statue removed by the University of Hong Kong, but a relief sculpture was torn down by the Lingnan University.

All monuments related to the Tiananmen Square massacre are banned in mainland China and these have gradually become a taboo subject in Hong Kong too.

Mr. Li said that he was shocked when he learned from his peers that the statue had been removed.

He criticised the CUHK for erasing the memory of the massacre because they want to show their loyalty to the government.

After the Goddess of Democracy statue was removed, I have a more impressive feeling. We walked and gathered here in its presence. But now it is gone. However I still intentionally take a look at the space where it was situated. Although the statue no longer exists physically, it stays in my heart forever.

A CUHK student called for Look for Goddess of Democracy activity and invited all the teachers and students to take part in searching for miniatures, in order to carry on the memory of the commemoration.

In view of the political risk, the event was shortened and ended abruptly.
A Microsoft logo sits illuminated at the SK telecom booth during the GSMA Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain, on Feb. 28, 2022. (David Ramos/Getty Images)

Heres How Analysts Reacted to Microsofts Outlook Revision

Microsoft Corp. on Thursday updated its Q4 and FY23 guidance due to recent unfavorable currency headwinds.

Microsoft cited an incremental $460 million headwind from FX to its total revenue guidance issued in late April, representing slightly less than a 100bps delta on total revenue.

Microsoft now expects revenue of $51.94 billion$52.74 billion in Q4 (down ~1 percent from $52.4 billion$53.2 billion), and EPS of $2.24$2.32 (down ~$0.03 from $2.28-$2.35).

Microsoft generates ~50 percent of its revenues from international markets.

Mizuho analyst Gregg Moskowitz reiterated a Buy on Microsoft with a price target of $350.

Moskowitz believed that MSFTs fundamentals remain intact and remained confident of its growth opportunities over the medium-term and beyond with higher success in the cloud.

Rosenblatt analyst Blair Abernethy reiterated a Buy with a price target of $349.

Abernethys recent enterprise software data points and customer conversations reflect continuing strength in Digital Transformation and cloud migration trends leading to his belief of tiny end-market demand slowdown for Microsoft since it reported Q3.

He watched for potential selling cycle disruptions in Europe and hardware supply chain impacts from Covid-related shutdowns in China.

Abernethy adjusted his Q4 estimates and FY23 and FY24 forecast to account for the FX headwinds.

With the weakness in the stock in recent weeks, he expected Microsoft to remain active on its share buyback program in Q4.

By Anusuya Lahiri

 2022 The Epoch Times. The Epoch Times does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
House Republicans Will Be Pushing Back Against Jan. 6 Committee: Rep. Stefanik

Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) said that House Republicans would be pushing back against the Jan. 6 Committee in an effort to tell the American people how the committees efforts have been unconstitutional and illegitimate.

She said Republicans would be countering the messaging from the panel investigating the Jan. 6, 2021, breach of the U.S. Capitol amid a series of nine primetime public hearings over the next few weeks, starting with one on June 9 at 8 p.m. Washington time.

During the hearings, the panel will present previously unseen material documenting January 6th, receive witness testimony, preview additional hearings, and provide the American people a summary of its findings about the coordinated, multi-step effort to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election and prevent the transfer of power, the committee said in a statement.

Were working very closely with President [Donald] Trump and his team, with [Republican] Leader Kevin McCarthy, with [Rep.] Jim Jordan, and really all of the House Republicans, well be pushing back in a rapid response fashion, Stefanik told Breitbart News.

You will see us all over the airwaves, well be setting the record straight, well be telling the truth to the American people, sharing the facts, and also really pointing out how unprecedented and unconstitutional and illegitimate this committee is, she said.

We have lots of media bookings already set. I know that many of our members are going to shine in this moment. But similar to impeachment sham one, and really, impeachment sham two, just out there, every single day, she said, equating the Jan. 6 panel to previous Democratic-led efforts to impeach former President Donald Trump on two separate occasions, which both resulted in Trump being acquitted.

Read More Timeline of Events in DC on Jan. 6

In May 2021, Stefanik was voted House Republican Conference chair, the No. 3 GOP leadership position in the chamber, after Republicans ousted Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.) from the post. Cheney is a member of the Jan. 6 panel.

Im going to stand up for my constituents and the American people  to make sure that the facts are out there for the American people to know and expose what [House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.)] does not want the American people to know, she told Breitbart.

She said Pelosis office is the only office that is off limits from the Jan. 6 panels investigation and noted that Pelosi has refused to produce documents related to the security posture of the U.S. Capitol.

House Republicans have been demanding answers from Pelosi about why the U.S. Capitol didnt have adequate security, even though the Capitol police chief had asked Pelosis office more than once to order in the National Guard ahead of Jan. 6, 2021requests that were rejected or not followed up.

There were concerns about security that were raised with Speaker Pelosis office. She was concerned about political optics, and the Capitol was left vulnerable on that day, Stefanik said. The American people deserve to know why Nancy Pelosi isnt releasing those documents and they deserve to know full transparency.

Stefanik previously accused the Jan. 6 panel of being a political weapon used to cover up for Nancy Pelosis failures.

The nine-member Jan. 6 panel has also been criticized for its apparent partisanship. The panel consists of seven Democrats and two RepublicansRep. Adam Kinzinger (R-Ill.) and Cheney, both known for their strong opposition to Trump. Pelosi selected Kinzinger and Cheney after she refused to seat members picked by House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.).

Chairman Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.) told reporters previously that the upcoming hearings will tell the story about what happened on Jan. 6.

We will use a combination of witnesses, exhibits, things that we haveto the tens of thousands of exhibits weve interviewed and looked at as well as the hundreds of witnesses we deposed or just talked to in general, he said at the time. It will give the public the benefit of what more than a years worth of investigation has borne to the committee.

Thompson has said that the committee plans to release a report on its findings in early fall.

Zachary Stieber contributed to this report.
Protesters are seen at rally at the U.S. Capitol in Washington on Jan. 6, 2021. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana, File)

Jan. 6 Committee Adviser: No Smoking Gun Showing Trump Planned US Capitol Breach

A former top adviser to the House committee investigating the Jan. 6 Capitol breach admitted Sunday there was no smoking gun that suggested President Donald Trump planned the breach.

Denver Riggleman, a former Republican House representative, had recently been a senior adviser to the panel. He told CNNs State of the Union Sunday that there was no direct evidence that suggested the breach and protests outside the Capitol were premeditated.

CNNs Jake Tapper asked the former lawmaker whether there is a smoking gun that proves that Donald Trump or somebody around him knew that what happened January 6 was not a spontaneous outcry by his supporters, but was a planned attempt to get them to stop counting the electoral votes?

That probably [was] going to be very difficult to even find based on the limited authorities of Congress as far as getting data and things like that, Riggleman ultimately conceded to CNN. However, he claimed later in the interview that the panel will reveal alleged nefarious actions carried out by Trump, although he didnt make any specific claims.

There are multiple groups involved, he alleged. And I think thats whats exciting about the hearings, is, theyre going to be able to put the multiple groups together. Remember, theres different investigative teams that were looking at different parts of this the whole time.

Riggleman on Sunday also appeared to declare his support for Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wy.), one of the leaders on the House Jan. 6 panel and who has become more and more unpopular among members of her own party amid her outspoken opposition to Trump. Riggleman also told CNN Sunday he is no longer a member of the Republican Party.

Peter Navarro, former trade adviser to President Donald Trump, speaks to reporters as he departs U.S. District Court after he was indicted on two counts of contempt of Congress for his failure to comply with a subpoena from the House of Representatives committee investigating the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol, in Washington on June 3, 2022. (Kevin Lamarque/Reuters)

Late last week, former Trump adviser Peter Navarro was charged with contempt of Congress after he refused to cooperate with the panel. Months before that, former Trump campaign chief and former White House adviser Steve Bannon was charged by the Department of Justice with contempt of Congress charges.

While speaking to reporters on Friday, Navarro said that the FBI placed him in leg irons and said he was put in a jail cell that held would-be Ronald Reagan assassin John Hinckley Jr.

Who are these people? This is not America, Navarro said outside a federal court in Washington, D.C. I was a distinguished public servant for four years.

They put me in leg irons, they stuck me in a cell, by the wayjust a historical noteI was in John Hinckleys cell, Navarro said. They seemed to think that that was like an important historical note. Thats punitive. What they did to me today violated the Constitution.

He continued: On Wednesday, I reached out to the Justice Department. I offered them a possible way forward. They responded with effectively the same kind of thing as you see in Stalins Russia or the Chinese Communist Party.
From deaths due to vaccine-induced myocarditis to a significant increase in heart attack risk among youth, the risks tied to COVID-19 shots continue to grow  while their effectiveness in children reached an embarrassing low.

A previously healthy 36-year-old mother of two died 11 days after receiving a Pfizer COVID-19 shot.1 Initially, her cause of death was deemed inconclusive, but at an inquest, pathologist Dr. Sukhvinder Ghataura explained that he believes the COVID-19 shot was to blame. He told the coroner:2

On the balance of probabilities, she had vaccine-related problems. There is nothing else for me to hang my hat on. It is the most likely reason, in my conclusion. It is more than likely Dawn died in response to the Covid jab.

Government officials continue to deny deaths linked to Pfizers mRNA COVID-19 shot. In the U.S., theyve only acknowledged nine deaths as causally associated with Johnson and Johnsons COVID-19 shot as of May 10, 2022.3 But this case, which occurred in the U.K., highlights the potential dangers of shot-induced myocarditis.

According to Ghataura, the woman had several signs of myocarditis, or inflammation of the heart muscle, including inflammation of the heart, fluid in the lungs and a small clot in her lungs.

She had also reported menstrual irregularities, jaw pain and arm pain.4 When asked by a family member whether he believed the woman would still be alive today if she hadnt received the shot, Ghataura said, Its a difficult question but I would say yes.5

COVID-19 Shots Increase Heart Attack Risk by 25% in Youth

At the conclusion of the inquest regarding the womans death, assistant coroner Alison McCormick stated, I give the narrative conclusion that her death was caused by acute myocarditis, due to recent Covid-19 immunization.6 Myocarditis is a recognized adverse effect of mRNA COVID-19 shots,7 and one that has been named in other deaths.

Dr. Neil Singh Dhalla, a CEO of a major health clinic, fell asleep four days after he got a COVID-19 booster shot  and died from a heart attack.8 The autopsy stated myocarditis. He was only 48 years old and had never had heart problems in his life. In another example, epidemiologists confirmed that two teenage boys from different U.S. states died of myocarditis days after getting the Pfizer shot.9

Both had received second doses of the shot. In a study that examined the autopsy findings, its reported that the myocarditis described in the boys deaths is not typical myocarditis pathology:10

The myocardial injury seen in these post-vaccine hearts is different from typical myocarditis and has an appearance most closely resembling a catecholamine-mediated stress (toxic) cardiomyopathy. Understanding that these instances are different from typical myocarditis and that cytokine storm has a known feedback loop with catecholamines may help guide screening and therapy.

An astounding study published in Scientific Reports further revealed that calls to Israels National Emergency Medical Services (EMS) for cardiac arrest and acute coronary syndrome increased more than 25% among 16- to 39-year-olds from January 2021 to May 2021, compared to the same time period in 2019 and 2020.11

The researchers evaluated the association between the volume of the calls and other factors, including COVID-19 shots and COVID-19 infection, but a link was only found for the shots:12

[T]he weekly emergency call counts were significantly associated with the rates of 1st and 2nd vaccine doses administered to this age group but were not with COVID-19 infection rates.

While not establishing causal relationships, the findings raise concerns regarding vaccine-induced undetected severe cardiovascular side-effects and underscore the already established causal relationship between vaccines and myocarditis, a frequent cause of unexpected cardiac arrest in young individuals.

COVID Shots Werent Tested on Pregnant Women

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration and Pfizer attempted to hide COVID-19 shot clinical trial data for 75 years. When I saw that, thats when I got very vocal and said fraud has occurred. How do I know that? They wont show us the clinical data, former Blackrock portfolio manager Edward Dowd said.13 This should be a red flag for all Americans.

Now that a lawsuit forced the FDA to release thousands of the documents, data about what they were trying to hide is coming out. Among the revelations is evidence that Pfizer deliberately excluded pregnant women from COVID-19 shot trials. So how did they make the recommendation that the shots are safe and effective for pregnant women?

This was based on a 42-day study involving 44 rats.14 Whats more, a Pfizer-BioNTech rat study revealed the shot more than doubled the incidence of preimplantation loss and also led to a low incidence of mouth/jaw malformations, gastroschisis (a birth defect of the abdominal wall) and abnormalities in the right-sided aortic arch and cervical vertebrae in the fetuses.15

A CDC-sponsored study that was widely used to support the U.S. recommendation for pregnant women to get injected presents falsely reassuring statistics related to the risk of spontaneous abortion in early pregnancy, according to the Institute for Pure and Applied Knowledge (IPAK).16

When the risk of miscarriage was recalculated to include all women injected prior to 20 weeks gestation, the incidence was seven to eight times higher than the original study indicated, with a cumulative incidence of miscarriage ranging from 82% to 91%.

Also buried in one of the documents is the statement, Clinical laboratory evaluation showed a transient decrease in lymphocytes that was observed in all age and dose groups after Dose 1, which resolved within approximately one week 17 What this means is Pfizer knew that, in the first week after the shot, people of all ages experienced transient immunosuppression, or put another way, a temporary weakening of the immune system, after the first dose.

Pfizer and FDA Knew Vaccines Were Not Safe and Effective

It looks to me  this is not an overstatement from what Ive seen  that this was a clinical trial that by August 2021, Pfizer and the FDA knew was failed, the vaccines were not safe and effective, said investigative author Naomi Wolf. That they werent working. That the efficacy was waning  and that they were seriously dangerous. And they rolled it out anyway.18

Regarding the shots for pregnant women, Wolf said, in an interview with Stephen Bannon on War Room, that a spike in severe adverse events among pregnant women coincides with the rollout of COVID-19 shots.

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) whistleblowers datamined the DOD health database, revealing significant increases in rates of miscarriage and stillbirths, along with cancer and neurological disease, since COVID-19 jabs rolled out.19 This is honestly one of the wors[t] things Ive ever, ever seen in my 35 years as a reporter, Wolf said.20

Not only does IPAKs data show COVID-19 injections prior to 20 weeks are unsafe for pregnant women, but 12.6% of women who received it in the third trimester reported Grade 3 adverse events, which are severe or medically significant but not immediately life-threatening. Another 8% also reported a fever of 38 degrees C (100.4 degrees F), which can lead to miscarriage or premature labor.21

Young children are also developing severe hepatitis and nobody knows why.22 COVID-19 shots have been linked to cases of liver disease23 and liver damage following the shots has been deemed plausible.24

Confirmed: COVID Shots Affect Menstrual Cycles

Its clear that there are many unknowns about how COVID-19 shots affect pregnancy and reproduction, including their effects on menstrual cycles. Women around the globe have reported changes in their menstrual cycles following COVID-19 shots, and health officials have tried to brush off the reports or label them all as anecdotal.

But a study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology  and funded by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) and the National Institutes of Healths (NIH) Office of Research on Womens Health  confirms an association between menstrual cycle length and COVID-19 shots.25

Clinical trials for COVID-19 shots did not collect data about menstrual cycles following injection, and the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) does not actively collect menstrual cycle information either, making it difficult to initially determine whether the shots were having an effect. Anecdotal reports on social media, however, are numerous and, according to the study, suggest menstrual disturbances are much more common 26

The Obstetrics & Gynecology study involved 3,959 individuals between the ages of 18 and 45 years. Those who had not received a COVID-19 shot noted no significant changes in cycle four during the study compared to their first three cycles.

Those who received COVID-19 shots, however, had longer menstrual cycles, typically by less than one day, when they received the shots. The longer cycles were noted for both doses of the injection, with a 0.71-day increase after the first dose and 0.91-day increase after the second dose.27

While the researchers described the change as not clinically significant, meaning its not notable from a health standpoint, there were some women who experienced even greater menstrual changes, particularly those who received two shots in the same menstrual cycle. These changes included a two-day increase in cycle length and, in some cases, changes in cycle length of eight days or more.

Pfizer Shot Only 12% Effective in Children

Adding insult to injury, research conducted by the New York State Department of Health shows the dismal reality about the effectiveness of COVID-19 shots in children.28 From December 13, 2021 to January 24, 2022, they analyzed outcomes among 852,384 children aged 12 to 17 years, and 365,502 children aged 5 to 11 year, who had received two doses of the shots.

Effectiveness declined rapidly among 5- to 11-year-olds, falling from 68% to just 12%. Protection against hospitalization also dropped, from 100% to 48%. Among 11-year-olds alone, vaccine effectiveness plunged to 11%.29 The lackluster response was blamed on the dosage discrepancies among the age groups, as 5- to 11-year-olds receive two 10-microgram Pfizer shots, while 12- to 17-year-olds receive 30-microgram shots.30

In the younger age group, the shots provided almost no protection at all. And its not only children who are affected by the shots rapidly waning effectiveness. COVID-19 booster shots also lose effectiveness rapidly, with protection plummeting by the fourth month post-shot.31 One CDC-funded study involved data from 10 states collected from August 26, 2021 to January 22, 2022, periods during which both delta and omicron variants were circulating.

Visits to emergency rooms and urgent care facilities, as well as hospitalizations, among people seeking medical care for COVID-19 were analyzed. The study did not include milder COVID-19 cases, for which no medical attention was sought.

While initially vaccine effectiveness against COVID-19-associated emergency department or urgent care visits and hospitalizations was higher after the booster shot, compared to the second COVID-19 injection, effectiveness waned as time passed since vaccination.32

Within two months of the second COVID-19 shot, protection against emergency department and urgent care visits related to COVID-19 was at 69%. This dropped to 37% after five months post-shot. The low effectiveness five months after the initial shot series is what prompted officials to recommend a booster dose  and the third shot boosted effectiveness to 87%.

This boost was short-lived, however. Within four to five months post-booster, protection against emergency department and urgent care visits decreased to 66%, then fell to just 31% after five months or more post-booster.33

Considering the adverse effects and lack of effectiveness, many have called for an immediate withdrawal of the shots. IPAK believes the data are already compelling enough to withdraw the shots for vulnerable populations, including pregnant and breastfeeding women, children and those of child-bearing age.34

Janci Chunn Lindsay, Ph.D., a prominent toxicologist and molecular biologist who works with M.D. Anderson Cancer Center-Houston, spoke at the CDCs Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices meeting held April 23, 2021, and also called for all gene therapy vaccines to be halted immediately due to safety concerns on several fronts, including fertility.35

Originally published
Man Dies After Entering River Thames When Police Tried to Detain Him

A man who ended up in Londons River Thames after police fired a stun gun in a bid to detain him on Saturday has died in hospital, according to the Metropolitan Police.

The family of the man, who was believed to be in his early 40s, has been notified, the Met said.

The Met said it immediately referred the incident to the police watchdog, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which has launched an investigation.

According to the Met, officers received a report at 9:03 a.m. on Saturday that a man was armed with a screwdriver and shouting on Chelsea Bridge Road.

The force said officers arrived at the scene a short time after the call and challenged a man on Chelsea Bridge.

A Taser was discharged but this did not enable the officers to safely detain him, the Met said, adding that the man had subsequently entered the river.

A rescue operation was immediately organised, the Met said.

The man was pulled out of the river by the Royal National Lifeboat Institution and taken to hospital in critical condition, and he died in hospital on Saturday evening.

Frontline Policing Commander Alexis Boon offered condolences to the mans family for their tragic loss, and said the Met will cooperate fully with the IOPC.

Steve Noonan, director of the IOPC, said on Sunday that the watchdog had reached out to the mans family to offer its sincere condolences and to explain its involvement.

Our independent investigation is underway into the police actions at the bridge and we have begun gathering and reviewing evidence, he said.

The IOPC said its investigating the contact Met officers had with the man before he ended up in the River Thames.

We were notified by the Metropolitan Police on Saturday and sent investigators to the scene and to the police post-incident procedure to begin our investigation. Initial information indicates that officers were responding to reports of a disturbance when they encountered the man on the bridge. During the incident Taser was deployed, the watchdog said in a statement.

Investigators have secured police body-worn video footage and initial accounts have been obtained from the officers involved. The Taser used has also been gathered and will be analysed. Investigators have overseen forensic examination of the scene.

Detective Chief Inspector Rory Wilkinson of the Mets Central West BCU said on Saturday: I understand that there are always concerns about incidents in which people come to harm having been in contact with police.

All Met officers know that they are accountable for their actions, and a full investigation is underway to establish exactly what happened.
Police investigators work the scene of a fatal overnight shooting on South Street in Philadelphia on June 5, 2022. (Courtesy of WPVI)

Mass Shooting in Philadelphia Leaves 3 Dead, 11 Injured Amid Weekend of Mayhem

At least three people were killed and at least 11 people were injured during a mass shooting in Philadelphia, officials said on June 5.

The shooting occurred on South Street between 2nd and 3rd streets just before midnight on June 4, according to officials. Hundreds of people were outside when police officers said they heard gunshots and saw several suspects firing into the large crowd of people, Philadelphia Police Inspector D.F. Pace told local media outlets.

There were hundreds of individuals just enjoying South Street, as they do every single weekend, when the shooting broke out, Pace said early on June 5.

Police reported several active shooters, one of whom was shot at by police. The man dropped his gun and fled, according to Pace. It isnt clear if the suspect was hit by gunfire.

Two handguns were recovered from the scene; Pace said one of the weapons had an extended magazine, although he didnt elaborate.

Seven victims were taken to Thomas Jefferson University Hospital for treatment of shooting-related injuries, a spokesperson for the hospital told ABC News. One was dead on arrival, and four others were classified as stable, according to the hospital.

Other victims were taken to other nearby hospitals, police stated. The names of the victims werent released, and police havent provided any information about potential suspects.

Eric Walsh, an employee of ONeals Pub, said he heard shots being fired at 11:30 p.m. local time before helping people inside his business shelter in place, he told The Philadelphia Inquirer.

People were coming off the street with blood splatters on white sneakers and skinned knees and skinned elbows, Walsh told the media outlet. We literally just were balling up napkins and wetting them and handing them to people.  It was chaos.

An investigation into the June 4 shooting is continuing, officials told local media outlets.

The city is still reeling from about nine separate shooting incidents from the night before, including one that left a pregnant woman dead. Officials told Fox News that at least eight others died.

At least 209 homicides have occurred in Philadelphia this year as of May 31, down by 3 percent compared to the year-earlier period, according to police data. Philadelphia, a city that has historically been dominated by Democratic elected officials, in 2021 set its all-time record for homicides, with more than 562, officials said.

Amid the rise in homicides, some current and former officials have criticized Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner for promoting far-left policies. Former Mayor Michael Nutter, in an opinion article last year, wrote that the district attorney has ignored the pain of the living and insulted the memory of the dead and that he lives in a messed up world of White wokeness that has little regard for human lives lost.

Anyone with information about the case can submit a tip by calling or sending a text message to the Philadelphia Police Department tipline at 215-686-TIPS (8477).
Eagerly awaiting the birth of her second son after a traumatic first birth experience, a Utah mom made sure her family was prepared, including her then-3-year-old son. Yet when labor got almost too intense to bear, nothing could have helped her more than the sweet, calming words from her son that made her pull through.

Idaho-born Delaina Leigh Compton, 27, endured an asynclitic birth with her first son when he shifted position so his head was tilted to one side. Delaina gave birth to Leo, now 4, amid the dissolution of her marriage to her first husband, and claims she wasnt at her healthiest mentally, emotionally, or physically.

However, Delaina, whos a professional dancer found love again and married David, 30. Delaina fell pregnant unexpectedly with her second child.

We had planned on having another child, we were excited for it, but it came a lot sooner than planned, Delaina said. I was still healing from past trauma and abuse from previous relationships.

It wasnt until her third trimester that Delaina started to feel a lot better about her pregnancy.

Delaina chose Utah Birth Suites birthing center to have her babydescribing it as in-between hospital and homewith the support of her husband. She did a lot of research and educated herself on unmedicated birth, and the benefits of having a home birth or going into a birthing center, and made a birth plan to help her feel in control.

She also made sure to prepare her son, toddler Leo, for the experience ahead.

I would watch a birth video and make sure that it was age-appropriate for him, then I would show it and tell him, This is when Mamas going to be in labor, this is when the babys gonna be pushed out, this is the placenta,' said Delaina. He loved it, he thought it was the coolest thing.

Delaina said she also taught Leo that there were going to be times when he would have to watch her use lion strength to roar out the baby, and that if there was any time that she was going to be loud it was because she was using her lion power.

The then-expectant mom went into labor in December 2021 on schedule, at home. Everything seemed normal until she felt a shift, and an intense pelvic pain that she knew instantly wasnt normal. This made her nervous and fearful, because her baby had previously been in the optimal position for birth. Delaina had no idea then that he had become asynclitic.

The midwife and doula were nervous that Delaina was in transition, the final part of labor before a woman starts to push.

Sensing his moms fear and pain, little Leo stepped in to say: Take deep breaths, Mama. Remember, this pain is a good pain!

Hearing him saying that was just exactly what I needed, said Delaina. I had no idea how well hed grasped onto these different things that I taught him  I really feel, because of everything he has gone through at such a young age, its made him a very tender, smart young boy.

It was incredible for Delaina as she witnessed her son being so sweet.

Delaina later shared the moving footage of her labor and delivery, with Leo by her side, on Instagram.

Leowhose full name is Leonidas, meaning lion strengthaccompanied his mom and father to the birthing center where Delaina got into a tub to help with labor pains. She got out when it was time to push, to try different positions. Thats when her midwife found out that Delainas cervix was acting like a rubber band around the babys head.

The baby was stuck, and with his head tilted, he was descending at an angle. Unlike other babies, whose heart rates may drop in distress as their mothers push, Delainas babys heart rate was dropping when she was not pushing. However, she was determined to have the baby, and thus tried almost everything she could to get him out.

I was in a lot more pain than I knew I should be, Delaina recalled. Everything about pushing him and getting him out was more intense than it should be.

Delainas midwife also manually held back her cervix to help the baby descend into the birth canal.

After an hour of pushing, baby Luca was born in a little shock, but healthy, weighing 7 pounds 4 ounces (approx. 3.3 kg). Leo helped David cut the cord before the family of four cuddled up for skin-to-skin bonding time.

Needless to say, Leo was smitten seeing his baby brother.

During the labor, he kept saying, Oh, Im so excited to meet the baby boy! Then once the baby came, he was just so enamored. There was light in his eyes, it was tangible, said Delaina, whose sister-in-law told her that the birth didnt even faze big brother Leo.

Delaina and David were emotional, knowing how intense the delivery had been.

My husband was crying because he was there with me through the entire labor and birth and seeing how hard it was. And there are points where he was also fearful, Delaina said. I never knew, because he never voiced or showed that.

Once Luca was there with the family, it was such a relief for them. From the very beginning, there was a very sweet, special spirit about him, so it was magical to say the least, she said of the newborn.

Delaina said that her husband, midwife, and doula were game-changers, and the skill of her hand-picked birthing team allowed them to handle complications without transferring to a hospital.

Doctors will typically intervene with either drugs or different methods to get the labor going. Those are interventions that typically will cause a cascade of interventions, she reflected.

She explained that, usually, one intervention will cause a reaction, and another intervention has to come in to help that reaction, and this is what she experienced during her birth with Leo. This time, with Luca, it was like a night-and-day difference, she said, describing the experience as amazing.

Delaina first met David, who is now her rock, on a dating app in 2014, while living in Salt Lake City, Utah. She was still wrestling her way out of a toxic relationship at the time, so David became her friend and protector. Although they did have feelings for each other at that time, Delaina said the timing didnt seem to be right.

Both of them moved on and married different people. With both of them divorced from their partners, they began to spend a lot of time with each other as friends and realized that they wanted similar things in life, thus they began dating. For Leo, the transition was easy, said Delaina, as he already knew that David was a really good friend of his mom.

Coming into this marriage, it is just so different, she reflected. Were equal partners  we just do whatever we can do to help each other, which is incredible, and how I think it should be.

As Luca approaches 5 months old, the family of four is getting into the groove of things. David works from home and provides invaluable support. Delaina adores being a mom of two, and the family finds their joy in the great outdoors, hiking, and exploring national parks together.

Meanwhile, Leo and Lucas adorable growing bond has been an icing on the cake for the family.

From the very beginning, hes like, Im going to be the best big brother ever, Im going to teach him all of these things!' Delaina said. Even though Luca cant play much right now, Leo is still finding ways to meet him where hes at and play with him in that way. Hes constantly trying to love on him, give him hugs and kisses, and its incredible.

(Courtesy of Delaina Leigh)

Its so cool to me, watching them become who I feel theyre meant to be, and who God has created them to be, she said, adding, I have so many different hats in life  but at the end of the day, I really feel like my role as a mother is the single most important role that I will ever have.

As her children grow, Delainas parenting philosophy is to always lead with optimism and ensure her children know how fiercely they are loved. Mistakes help them learn and grow, and open, honest communication is paramount.

Its all about helping each other become the best version of ourselves, and helping each other reach our goals and chase after our dreams, she said. Its crucial for my kids to feel safe in expressing their emotions and thoughts with us, and for us as parents to help them navigate them in a healthy way.

Share your stories with us at emg.inspired@epochtimes.com, and continue to get your daily dose of inspiration by signing up for the Inspired newsletter at TheEpochTimes.com/newsletter
More Immigration Not the Answer to Airport Travel Chaos, UK Minister Says

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has rejected calls to open the door to more cheap foreign workers in a bid to relieve the pressure on the aviation sector.

Air passengers have faced days of disruption at Britains airports, with a total of 20 flights listed as cancelled at Gatwick Airport on Saturday, while 17 were marked as delayed.

Shapps said he will do absolutely everything possible to make sure holidaymakers are able to get away without issues during the summer but stopped short of allowing a temporary migration influx to bridge the labour shortage.

Following a meeting with airports, airlines, and ground handling companies last week, the Cabinet minister said he had answered industry demands to speed up security checks for workers and allow some staff in non-security related jobs to take up training immediately.

But he said it is up to the sector to fix the issues, accusing bosses of cutting too far during the COVID-19 pandemic, despite receiving 8 billion of state support and having access to furlough money to keep staff on the books while travel restrictions were in place.

It came as London Mayor Sadiq Khan laid a portion of the blame on Brexit and urged ministers to open up jobs to European Union workers once again in order to avoid a summer of travel misery.

Travellers wait in a long queue to pass through the security check at Heathrow Airport, in London, on June 1, 2022. (Carl Court/Getty Images)

Asked whether he would temporarily allow more foreign workers into the industry to alleviate staffing pressures, Shapps told the BBCs Sunday Morning programme, The answer cant always be to reach for the lever marked more immigration.

There is not some pull that is going to relieve this.

The transport secretary denied that the UKs divorce from Brussels was the main factor behind the chaos and queues seen at Britains airports over the four-day Platinum Jubilee break, pointing to large-scale disruption elsewhere in Europe.

On Saturday, the majority of flights for every airline at Amsterdams Schiphol airport were either listed as delayed or cancelled.

Shapps added that the Brexit vote had been about moving away from hiring cheap labour from somewhere else.

I didnt vote for Brexit but the country did and weve made our choicewe want a high-wage, high-skilled economy, he said.

That means the aviation sector, like all other sectors, and as the HGV, the lorry driving sector has now done, needs to change.

Shapps said he will be pushing for it to be made easier for passengers to receive compensation or be given rearranged flights if they are inconvenienced, and called on airlines to rethink how they sell seats on their routes.

He also rejected demands for the Army to be brought in to assist with the situation.

The former Conservative Party chairman added: We need the industry itself to deliver.

It is very important that flights arent oversold, for example, and I want to make sure there is automatic compensation for passengers.

Well work with the industry very hard between now and the summer to make sure we dont see a repeat of those scenes.

Clearly, they have been taken by surprise by the way people have returned to travel after two years of being locked down, but Im not surprisedwe were saying all along: You will need to be ready for this.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan at City Hall as Transport for London (TfL) launch their consultation on expanding the ULEZ London-wide on May 20, 2022. (Karis Pearson/PA Media)

Khan said the problems facing international travellers are self-inflicted.

The capitals Labour leader told the BBC, What we dont want is a spring misery turned into a summer misery.

Many families who have saved, who have paid for a holiday and are looking forward to a holiday are going to be let down.

What you can do very easily is make sure those who were in those jobs before, who have gone back to their country of origin, from the EU, are encouraged to come back.

This is self-inflicted from the government. Listen, it isnt about COVID, this is about Brexit plus COVID.

Lisa Webb, a law expert at consumer rights group Which?, said airlines needed to follow the rules when flights are disrupted following a hellish week for travellers.

The shameful scenes at UK airports this half-term are the result of an industry in which some airlines feel they can get away with ignoring consumer rights and acting with near impunity, she said.

It is clear that passenger rights need to be strengthened, so the government must drop plans to cut compensation for delayed and cancelled flights and the Civil Aviation Authority must be given the power to issue direct fines so it can hold airlines to account when they flout the law.
According to Naomi Wolf, a former adviser to the Clinton administration, there are 10 steps every tyrannical government has followed. We are now at step 10, and once it locks into place, there will be no going back. Find out how you can help keep that from happening.

Download Interview Transcript Download my FREE Podcast Video Link

General guidance on how to prepare for near-future events, and what is needed for survival and success in the long term are addressed

Hopelessness leads to inaction, and without action, were guaranteed to lose everything. The one thing the technocrats technology cannot compete with is the analog world  analog devices and in-person relationships  so thats where our greatest strength lies

We are at war, and the federal government, institutions and agencies of various kinds, and the media, have all been weaponized against the public

The COVID pandemic was used to strip us of our liberties and to conceptually terraform America into being ready to accept a CCP-style World Economic Forum-guided post-humane and post-constitutional world

There are 10 steps that leaders who want to crush a democracy will always take. We are now in Step 10, and traitors are dissolving the boundaries and sovereignty of the United States. The same is also taking place in other nations

Repeat guest Naomi Wolf is the author of The End of America, published in 2007, and The Bodies of Others: The New Authoritarians, COVID-19 and the War Against the Human, which was released at the end of May 2022. In our previous interview, we discussed how The End of America dovetailed with current pandemic events. (You can download the first and last chapters for free on the publishers website, chelseagreen.com.1)

Here, we review what lies ahead if we dont challenge and stand firm against the global control agenda. Its really important to realize that the progression toward tyranny and loss of freedom is neither new nor accidental  and really has nothing to do with COVID or biosecurity per se.

These are just convenient justifications for the unjustifiable. No, this is a comprehensive plan for a global takeover thats been in the works for many decades. What were seeing now is just the final implementation.

I wrote The End of America when I saw that issues around terrorism and the terror threat post-9/11 were being used in such a way as to hype fear and strip us of our civil liberties, Wolf says. There are 10 steps to fascism that leaders who want to crush a democracy will always take. Theyre the same 10 steps whether the leaders are on the left or on the right. It really doesnt matter.

So, I looked at history at different times and places in which a robust democracy was crushed. You start with invoking a terrifying threat. It can be a real threat, but its hyped. You go on to surveil citizens. You create militia groups unaccountable to the rule of law.

You create a Gulag. You start to demonize whistleblowers and critics. You start to call dissent, treason or espionage or subversion. And then you get to Step 10, which is martial law, declaring emergency law. Well, here we are at Step 10.

The Race Toward a Post-Humane World

In the summer of 2020, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo declared residents could not have more than six people in their homes. As noted by Wolf, this is a massive and very clear violation of the First and Fourth Amendments  the right to privacy and the right to assembly.

That was the moment when Wolf knew for sure that the lockdowns had nothing to do with a public health emergency. Thats when she knew we were right smack dab in the middle of Step 10.

We were seeing a wholesale race to exploit what was messaged as a global pandemic in such a way as to strip us of our remaining liberties and to terraform America, conceptually, into being ready to accept a CCP-style World Economic Forum-guided post-humane and post-constitutional world, she says.

And thats only escalated. So, [in The Bodies of Others] I walk the reader through the money flow. I show how bad actors ranging from the World Economic Forum, to the Chinese Communist Party, to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and of course, to big tech companies, massaged pandemic policy in various ways to suit their ends.

I show how millions are flowing to big tech companies especially, as a result of completely medically unnecessary pandemic policies. And finally, I explain  speaking as a tech CEO, which I am now  that what the tech companies are driven by is that human beings in human space, having human conversations with human smiles and touch, are a competition that they cannot compete with.

So, a lot of the policies that were rolled out, as related to a public health emergency, really serve to kill off that human advantage and transfer assets to big tech companies.

Yes, We Are at War

Part of Step 10 is the proposed World Health Organization Pandemic Treaty, which would give the WHO unbridled privilege to declare an emergency and then have total authority to dictate the global response, even if that response contradicts the constitutional rights of a member state. And, while it may not strike most people as an act of war, it is in fact part of the global war effort against the public, the citizens of the world.

Indeed, thats whats happening, Wolf says. And the fact that Americans have not been able to see this treaty easily to lobby their representatives  thats just an example of why these metanational treaties are so extraordinarily dangerous 

I wish people would wake up sooner, honestly. Ive been warning people for about six months that a war is being waged against us here in the United States. We are at war, even though we think were not. We dont see bullets flying.

This is a new kind of war, and its a war that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has developed very skillfully. Stalinists also developed it skillfully. Its never been done to us like this before, but look at the big picture please. Our southern border is open. Hundreds of thousands of people are pouring in.

Im in favor of legal immigration. Im the daughter of immigrants. However, whats happening, according to my sources, is that fighting-age men from Ukraine and Afghanistan are pouring in. Millions of dollars in state-of-the-art equipment  night vision goggles, military equipment  vanished in Afghanistan. We didnt recover it.

Where is it? Who knows? But these are men who are going all over the country, theyre not being identified. Their destinations are not identified. They could be put in place. We are very vulnerable. And then, north of us, our historically peaceful neighbor, Canada, their World Economic Forum puppet, Justin Trudeau, declared martial law for about 24 hours when the truckers were protesting in Ontario.

What you saw there was unidentified, very mercenary looking  were they police? Were they soldiers? Very hard to tell because they werent identified, which is characteristic of an unaccountable mercenary. And they were very violent toward peaceful, lawful Canadian protestors.

You saw the same black-clad, unidentifiable, super fit looking mercenaries  in France. When there were protests against the Green Pass, there was dramatic violence, shocking scenes, by these unidentifiable mercenaries.

Emergency Powers Are Being Used as a Weapon of War

As noted by Wolf, all the pieces of the emergency also point in an obvious direction. In April 2022, President Biden extended emergency law for the eighth time, and this time he didnt even pretend that it was related to a public health emergency. He said it was due to instability in Iraq. By extending his emergency powers, he can funnel millions of dollars, without accountability, into the Department of Health and Human Services (DHSS).

Hes basically weaponizing HHS, all the way down to boards of health, which have been weaponized during the pandemic, Wolf says. So, we are at Step 10. This is Step 10.

Nothing legally prevents, right now, here in New York state, the governor from doing what shes trying to do, which is to create quarantine facilities and have a regulation to drag people off to open-ended quarantine if theyre exposed to a bloodborne pathogen.

We narrowly defeated a similar regulation proposal in Washington state. But with the World Health Organization treaty, they will have that right. Nothing will stop them from having mercenaries that I cant identify show up at the end of my driveway and say, Naomi Wolf, youre a public health threat. And the reason they can do this, also, is that this messaging is focusing on mental health too.

So, if you fold mental health into public health, then you get a rationale to say, Oh, dissent is a form of craziness, the way that its framed in, for instance, communist China. So, we are dissolving sovereignty all over the world if the WHO treaty is signed. Its absolutely terrifying. We need to wake up and realize that this war is being waged against us. Traitors are dissolving the boundaries of our nation.

Who Are the Perpetrators?

I suspect the perpetrators of this war are the global cabal that embraces technocracy and transhumanism. Wolf believes perpetrators fall into several different camps.

You were way ahead of the curve in identifying how serious this was, and the sources from which it would emanate. But I dont see them as having no light between them. I see that theyre loosely operating in concert. Certainly, technocrats. Big Tech is an alliance of technocrats. Certainly, the World Economic Forum 

Big Pharma isnt even the main driver, in my judgment, as powerful and scary as it is. I think theyre using pharma as a global weapon.

So, these entities  and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and other bad nonprofits like the EcoHealth Alliance, which is at the center of everything, and other aligned bad nonprofits like the Committee for State and Territorial Epidemiologists  these third-party nonprofits allow government agencies like the CDC to offshore their criminality.

For instance, the CDC contracted with these third parties to manage their data. My book shows how theres been a consistent mismanagement or manipulation of data around the pandemic to the extent that one of my chapters is called The Unverifiable Pandemic.

All of these bad actors are loosely aligned. Theyre talking to each other. Amazon, Google and Microsoft benefit from the pandemic. Google owns Baseline, which you have to sign in to, to get a CVS PCR test. Microsoft builds the vaccine passports. Bill Gates is invested in the vaccines. I just did a bombshell interview with RFK Jr. in which he said all of the big tech companies are invested in vaccines.

Its a pretty fully fleshed out methodology that involves Big Tech, the CCP, the World Economic Forum, and now the WHO as a delivery method, to create a one world matrix in which nation states are meaningless, parliaments and congresses are meaningless, and all of us are surveilled, tracked and regularly injected or forced to take whatever pill or treatment they want us to take in such a way as to make freedom a thing of the past.

And also in such a way as to harvest all of our data continually, which is gold for tech companies.

No Respect for Human Life

Ultimately, the perpetrators of this global war view human beings as a resource fit for harvest. Everything about us is up for grabs, including our DNA. Wolfs husband, Brian OShea, a highly-trained investigator who spent 12 years in military intelligence and the Special Forces, has evidence showing that by 2049, China wants to be the repository of all the worlds DNA  the DNA of every human on the planet.

Its been rumored that the COVID nasal swabs may be sent back to a DNA repository in China. No one knows where they go, really. If this is true, whats the danger? Well, for starters, organ trafficking is a lucrative business in China, and now, startups are popping up everywhere to assess the health of your organs. Is it inconceivable to think they might be compiling databanks on potential organ sources?

These people have no respect for human life, Wolf says. I think these people will stop at nothing  I mean there are new laws that have been passed that allow a newborn to be euthanized within a month after birth.

We Live in Unprecedented Times

According to professor Mattias Desmet, totalitarian regimes inevitably always self-destruct. Because of this, one might be tempted to think that future doomsday predictions wont materialize, as the system cant survive long-term. However, we also must remember that by the time totalitarian regimes collapse, theyve already killed tens of millions, and none of the previous ones had the technological advantages of the current system.

The totalitarian regime being erected now could easily wipe out most of humanity before its ultimate demise. Wolf also questions whether some of the previous totalitarian regimes actually did collapse and die out. Klaus Schwab, founder of the World Economic Forum, for example, is a direct heir of Nazi eugenicists, and Bill and Melinda Gates are still carrying out Nazi eugenicists approaches.

Everywhere we look today, we see the Nazi mentality at work behind the scenes. So, the ideology that drove the Nazi regime did not vanish. It simply went underground. Wolf comments:

The way the World Economic Forum is trying to manage human beings descends from Nazism. And, as Ive said elsewhere, Im the granddaughter of woman who lost nine brothers and sisters to Nazis. So, I dont say this slightly, and dont take this out of context, but Nazism was too good an idea for it to be killed off in 1945, meaning it was too effective.

Were [now] seeing Nazi approaches to human life. The creation of a two-tier society, vaccinated vs. unvaccinated, life vs. unworthy of life. Ive got a section in my book looking at the history of restrictions and how, always, restrictions on assembly, restrictions on commerce, restrictions on where Native Americans could travel, how they could trade, those always proceed theft of assets.

Thats whats happening now to the whole world with lockdowns. All of humanity was restricted in advance of a massive theft of their assets. And thats going to continue unless we resist it. But no, I dont agree that totalitarian regimes self-destruct.

First of all, in the 20th century, they collapsed after massive death, starvation, and upheaval and suffering. But second of all, the holy Roman empire lasted for 800 years, and it was pretty totalitarian. They crucified people. It was pretty totalitarian.

Living in Palestine in Jesus time, under the occupation of the Romans, that lasted for centuries. So, sure, if weve look 500 years or 800 years into the future, maybe the global totalitarianism thats being erected right now will have collapsed, but I dont think we should relax because of that.

There is another distinguishing factor that we have to take into account with this erection of totalitarianism globally compared with those in the past, and thats the role of artificial intelligence. AI now has the capability to tell the same story at the same time, around the world, at a scale that no human propagandists could ever match.

AI can take inputs from India about how people are receiving a propaganda message and adjust it. Or it can take inputs from peoples behavior in real time, or the reactions on social media and adjust it. And people havent even been informed about the extent to which AI can even tweak existing journalism.

For instance, every time you read the word Delta variant, you would see in front of it the words highly transmissible. And every time you saw the word myocarditis, you would see in front of it, extremely rare. Thats AI, and thats happening all over the world with virtually all flows of communications.

So, people can be propagandized  They can be hypnotized and lied to and an artificial reality could be created for them, conceptually, at a much more sophisticated level than human beings have ever accomplished.

The One Thing the Technocrats Cannot Compete With

While the situation may seem hopeless, we must not give up hope, because hopelessness leads to inaction, and then we are guaranteed to lose everything. The one thing the technocrats technology cannot compete with is the humane analog world, so thats where our greatest strength lies.

For example, no one can hack or surveil an in-person assembly, provided you dont have your cell phones on you. So, get into the habit of carrying your phone in a faraday bag, or leave it at home. Physical book stores, physical libraries, physical houses of worship, physical money  none of those can be surveilled or tracked. Combustion engine cars as opposed to electric cars also cannot be tracked as easily or thoroughly.

I tell people to get off of digital technology, Wolf says. Most of the narratives around what COVID was doing were communicated to us by digital technology, by Google, Facebook and Twitter, which are deplatforming people like you and me and putting alarm signals everywhere.

But if you just count on your own lived experience, the bodies were not stacking up. Im not saying it was a trivial public health problem. But if we had lived through 2020 to 2022, relying on human life experience, the stories our neighbors were telling us what we were hearing from our friends, we wouldve lived through a time in which there was a bad respiratory disease around, but not in which all human activity had to come to a close.

Wolfs Predictions for the Near Future

Almost universally, those aware of the facts and who are knowledgeable in this area agree that things are about to get far worse. The COVID pandemic was just the warmup, and right now we seem to be in a deceptive lull before the storm.

Our White House is captured by China. We have a puppet government  If you look at the harms in the Pfizer documents  this is a biological attack. The disruption of our food supplies is an attack. We are under occupation now. Its not going to happen in the future. We have to notice that we are already under occupation.  Naomi Wolf

We dont know when its going to get worse. It could be next week. It could be two or three years. I dont know, but I think its going to be sooner rather than later, so getting prepared is an urgent necessity. Many also wonder what they should prepare for.

Food shortages? Famine? Power failures? Gas shortages? The breakdown of transportation and distribution of goods? The collapse of one or more fiat currencies? The collapse of the entire financial system? Cyber attacks? Nuclear war? Any and all of those are on the table.

Heres my sense of the immediate timeline  and Ive been, unfortunately, right with every projection since I started making them, when this pandemic began, Wolf says.

The timeline is not good. November [2022] is going to be a very dangerous month in America. I mean, these people will stop at nothing and Im literally afraid of a nuclear attack. Im afraid the war in Ukraine will be the proxy or the rationale for an attack on the whole land. Itll be blamed on Russia, but it could be [done by] anyone.

I think were even beyond a false flag right now in America because I thoroughly believe our White House is captured by China, that we have a puppet government  I voted for the Biden administration  which is embarrassing given that theyre committing treason  but they cant resist what China and the World Economic Forum want them to do.

If you look at the harms in the Pfizer documents  this is a biological attack. The disruption of our food supplies is an attack. We are under occupation now. Its not going to happen in the future. We have to notice that we are already under occupation.

I used to be a political consultant. Every single thing that the Biden administration has done in terms of messaging and symbolism has served to lower the status of the United States internationally. Even little things like checking his watch three times at a military funeral. Thats not an accident. Those things are highly scripted.

Over and over again, you can see an external hand dialing down the prestige and authority of the United States. The withdrawal from Afghanistan, that did nothing but trash our standing internationally. The point is, we have a captured White House and thats very dangerous, because it means the FDA may or may not let poisonous food reach our shelves.

The FDA turned a blind eye or colluded with unbelievable harms revealed in the Pfizer documents, so the FDA cant be trusted. The CDC cant be trusted. Basically, you can expect more and more disorienting narratives of confusing public events, more and more Its monkeypox, its smallpox, its tuberculosis, to make you feel off kilter and panicked right up until November.

In November, I anticipate a giant crisis, which will have the effect of, Its not safe to leave your homes. Everything is radioactive, or theres smallpox everywhere, or there are mass shooters on the loose. This will drive voters to vote by mail instead of in person.

I say this as a political consultant: There is no way these people are acting like theres going to be midterm [elections]. Theyre acting like theres never going to be accountability. Theres never going to be investigations. Theyre never going to be impeached. So there will be no midterms. If I were to bet, I would bet the midterms will be dramatically compromised, if not taken off the table altogether, or made cursory.

I imagine were going to see more and more gangs  militias, and you dont know who they are. Were going to see more and more gangs wreaking havoc in inner cities, wreaking havoc with businesses  We dont know who they are and their job will be to terrorize everyone  and create the complete loosening of social bonds and the civil contract.

The defunding of the police is directly contributing to this. Its part of this process, and its worked  Along with that, therell continue to be disruptions in the food supply, certainly disruptions in the energy grid and probably cyber attacks.

Theres going to be parts of the country that are going to be in darkness or unable to communicate intermittently and that will add to our fear. All of this is going to play out around the world, and theyre not going to stop.

A lot of it will play out this year, but not dramatically enough to elicit an effective counter reaction. And thats their goal. Having said that, there are many things that you can do. So, theres going to be a degradation around the world of the right to assembly. Parliaments will be told its not safe to convene. You wont be able to see what parliament is doing. You wont be able to see what Congress is doing.

The Next Step, Historically

Going by the historical timeline of how a tyrannical regime takes over, the next step will involve a period when opposition leaders, civil rights leaders, outspoken journalists and editors will be arrested and taken to some unknown location. Many will simply be disappeared. Thats the point at which civil society just shuts down, even without a coup, because everyones too afraid.

After that, mercenaries will show up to reimpose order, but they wont be our mercenaries. Theyll be working on behalf of the enemy regime. At that point, the United States will formally cease to exist. The takeover will be complete.

As noted by Wolf, right now, were in a time of radical testing of our free will. If we dont wake up in sufficient numbers, the end result is already determined. Without pushback, it cant end any other way. Fortunately, theres a robust grassroots resistance to this in the United States, Wolf says. And, I cant believe Im saying this, but the Second Amendment is the key to the U.S. having hope that other countries dont have.

Recommendations Moving Forward

So, what can we do to prepare? How do we fight back? Regardless of where you are in the world, theres a lot you can do. The key to success is to focus the fight on the local and state level. There are also preparations you can (and need) to do on a personal level.

Im learning marksmanship. I hate to say it, but this is where were at, Wolf says. Im a peaceful person. I hope no one takes this out of context, but you need to be able to defend your family. You need to be able to hunt. We are getting to that point. Even if you hate guns, now is the time to learn marksmanship and be comfortable with a weapon because you may need to kill for food.

Theres an educational curve when it comes to firearms  how to store, carry and clean them, for example  and you really need to engage in that if youve never had any training in that area.

Secondly, know where your food comes from. Make friends with farmers. Create or join a CSA with your neighbors. Learn how to grow some food. Theres a steep learning curve there too. Next, prepare a plan for what to do if theres no electricity and/or digital communications.

I tell people to print out their bank statements and asset statements because in The Great Reset, you should expect that therell be some giant blitz and itll all vanish, Wolf says. Make sure you have hardcopies of important documents, such as the deed for your home. If you cant produce it, expect the new regime to claim ownership.

Much can also be done on the state level. For example, in Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis has stated he will not enforce the will of the World Economic Forum. The New Hampshire legislature has also passed a really good bill declaring that if the federal government passes an unconstitutional law, it will not be enforced in New Hampshire.

We have been very successful at DailyClout, state by state, mobilizing people to lobby their state representatives. But they have to pass laws fast, and show massive grassroots movement to not enforce the World Economic Forum diktats at the state level. And, our founders were such geniuses, because they set up our system so that states could do this, Wolf says.

Importantly, states must accept and be prepared to forgo federal funding and subsidies to retain their sovereignty. We need a new movement where institutions and local leadership publicly forswear any and all corruptible funding, be it from the CCP, the federal government, the WEF or anything else. These individuals and institutions must be willing to disclose the source of all funding, and reject any funds that might make them beholden to an enemy power.

We Need to Build an Alternative Society

The ultimate goal right now is to begin creating a whole alternative civil society. A reset, yes, but not the technocratic, transhumanist reset imagined by the globalists. We need to create uncorrupted science, uncorrupted journalism, uncorrupted medicine. We need governors, business leaders and heads of universities and so on to take a pledge to create uncorrupted institutions that are answerable to the people.

By showing people how the legislative process got corrupted and providing, on my site, DailyClout, the way to draft your own laws and pass your own laws, I am also providing people with very concrete ways to protect their liberties and to know what to do in the future, Wolf says.

And, I feel remiss if I didnt add, I personally had to give up my status as a media darling on the left, my friends, and my networks  when I began to do real reporting on this pandemic and on the mRNA vaccines. We are in a time where people will have to decide, What am I here for on this planet? Know that if you cling to lies, and you cling to your professional status, your children will live as slaves and so will you.

Its time to be brave, because if were a little bit brave now, we dont have to be horrifically brave in the near future  I also think were in a massive spiritual moment, that were in a biblical moment, and that theres a level of metaphysics over and above the material and the political assault on us in our reaction.

Im just speaking for myself, but I do feel like this is part of the picture, the nature of the evil that is unfolded around us  The way the mRNA vaccines target the fetus, target the amniotic membrane, target lactation, this is an evil beyond what Nazis could accomplish. This is an evil of a Miltonic scale.

Ive looked at it from all sides, and Im just going to say this, I cant account for it with purely human material processes. Its got an element of sophistication and scale and grandeur that really seems beyond the human to me, and to have an element of massive existential evil.

Im Jewish, so we dont have a highly-developed notion of Satan, but the these seem to be malevolent forces that can accomplish things beyond what human beings can accomplish.

As a result, I have started to believe in God in a more literal way than I used to, because these malevolent forces seem to be directed at what is good. What is divine? The human face, which my tradition says is an image of God. The human body, which is made in Gods image. Love, which is a manifestation of the divine according to many religious traditions. The family.

Its like all the things that are being targeted are what is divine about our human journey on this planet. I dont know where to go with that, except that it seems were in a moment in which  in addition to all the other things we can do, and Im just speaking for myself  I think we can pray.

We dont have the ability just as human beings to get out of this. Its too big. I believe that getting out of it requires an awakening thats massive. And, for myself anyway, asking for divine help has worked before.

To learn more, be sure to pick up a copy of The Bodies of Others: The New Authoritarians, COVID-19 and the War Against the Human, and subscribe to the Daily Clout newsletter on Dailyclout.io. You can also follow Wolf on GETTR.

Originally published J

Sources and References
Flagstaff City Council provided direction for staff to move forward with a controversial roundabout project after ample discussion during Tuesdays meeting.

Council also asked for further analysis on certain safety points on the project at Lockett, Cedar Avenue and Fourth Street, but the current design was ultimately deemed acceptable.

Construction on the roundabout is set to begin in 2023.

Tuesdays discussion began with a recap of the roundabout project, which is being funded in part by a 2018 grant award from the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) for highway safety improvements. The grant was awarded because the current signalized intersection at the location had been deemed problematic due to its high frequency of collisions. According to the agenda summary submitted by project manager Jeremy DeGeyter, the new roundabout has been designed to improve safety, slow speeds, help avoid angle crashes, and add a crosswalk at the 4th-leg of the intersection.

Over the last couple weeks public participants have expressed concern over the safety of the new roundabout design, particularly as it pertains to usage by children.

The intersection is situated between three schools and a public library, and currently sees a high volume of pedestrian traffic consisting of children.

Similar concerns were reiterated by public participants during Tuesdays meeting after DeGeyter provided a presentation that broke down the safety benefits of the roundabout design.

I think we can all intuitively agree that children present special challenges when crossing a street, DeGeyter said. The primary thing we want to achieve in the area of a school is reducing those speeds.

According to DeGeyters presentation, vehicle speed is the most significant factor in the frequency and severity of collisions. The current design of the roundabout will permit a speed of about 22 mph in the fastest lane, but most users are expected to us the roundabout between 15 to 20 mph. A reduction in speed, combined with other roundabout features such as improved sight lines, could reduce total collisions by 35%, pedestrian collisions by 45%, injury collisions by 76% and fatalities by 90% -- even in school zones.

Back in 1990 there were no roundabouts near schools, DeGeyter said. Since then we have installed 160 roundabouts near schools nationwide. To date there have not been any serious injuries reported.

Nonetheless, public participants maintained that the roundabout was a bad idea.

Do I think that this intersection can be safe? Yes, absolutely, Erica Martin said. Do I feel that a roundabout is a safer solution? No, not at all.

Other participants from the Pine Forest School -- which will lose a portion of its schoolyard under the current design  expressed disdain for an encroaching roadway.

Our green space is very important to us, said teacher Johanna Peyton. We dont want to lose it. I dont know what else to say. Im just pleading from the bottom of my heart.

Executive Director of the Pine Forest School Cindy Roe expressed concern that the construction schedule would interfere with the charter schools ability to attract new students.

Springtime is our time for enrollment, Roe said. When were tearing apart that area next year, I want everyone to consider the impact it will have on our enrollment.

After public participation, city council discussion kicked off with a statement form Vice Mayor Miranda Sweet, who spoke to the defense of the substantial research done by city staff.

As we move into this conversation, I want to remind all of us that we have traffic engineers who work in the city and who have been putting countless hours on this project, Sweet said. Last time I checked, those of us sitting up here are not traffic engineers, and I am certain that none of us can say we are experts. What I can tell you is that our engineers live here, have families here, and to assume that the staff who works hard for our community wouldnt have the interests of kids, bikes, pedestrians, cars, I find it kind of offensive.

Council discussion circulated largely around the possibility of tweaking the design to enhance safety elements. Tweaks would be difficult, explained traffic engineer Jeff Bauman, as the design already represented a delicate balancing of competing interests where an adjustment in one element could impact serviceability elsewhere in the design. Furthermore, he explained that any substantial design changes would trigger new intergovernmental agreements between the City of Flagstaff and ADOT.

Councilmember Adam Shimoni expressed personal discomfort with the current design and stated that he would not show support moving forward. The remaining majority of Council agreed to move forward with the design with the added request that staff explore raised crosswalks and pedestrian crossing beacons on all four legs of the intersection, the latter of which is estimated to add $750,000 to the project.

Lets not let perfect be the enemy of the good, said Mayor Paul Deasy. This is, as designed now, safer than the current intersection. That is data.

The property acquisition ordinance required for the roundabout project is scheduled for its second read on June 7. Public information meetings are tentatively scheduled for mid- to late-August, with exact dates to be determined.

Sean Golightly can be reached at sgolightly@azdailysun.com

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Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stands with newly appointed Foreign Minister Penny Wong, at the door of their plane in Canberra, Australia, on May 23, 2022. (David Gray/Getty Images)

New Aussie PM Anthony Albanese to Strengthen Indonesian Ties

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will look to strengthen ties with Asia when he travels to Indonesia for key talks on Sunday.

The three-day visit to Jakarta is Albaneses second overseas trip since he became prime minister last month.

Albanese will meet with Indonesian President Joko Widodo during the visit.

While his first trip was to Tokyo for the Quad leaders summit, Albanese said during the election campaign that Australia needed to build closer ties with Indonesia, having described the Asian nation as a future superpower.

Indonesia is one of our closest neighbours, which is why I committed to visiting as soon as possible, he said.

Our two countries have a long history of cooperation and friendship, and my government will work with Indonesia to deepen this.

On the agenda will be trade, climate change and energy, as well as regional and global interests.

Discussions are also set to take place on the Indonesia-Australia comprehensive economic partnership agreement, along with Australias proposed $200 million climate and infrastructure fund.

Albanese will also meet with ASEAN Secretary-General Dato Lim Jock Hoi while in Jakarta.

The prime minister will be accompanied by Foreign Minister Penny Wong, Trade Minister Don Farrell, Industry Minister Ed Husic and Darwin-based MP Luke Gosling on the visit

A high-level delegation of Australian business leaders will also travel to Indonesia as part of the countrys contingent.

Senator Wong said the government was serious about its engagement with Indonesia.

We share a fundamental interest in promoting a more prosperous, stable and secure region, where sovereignty is respected, she said.

Australias partnership with Indonesia has never been more consequential to this objective.

Albaneses upcoming visit continues on an Australian diplomatic tradition where new prime ministers have made Indonesia one of their first international ports of call upon taking office.

Indonesia was the first overseas visit for former prime ministers Scott Morrison and Malcolm Turnbull.

The talks in Jakarta comes amid growing tensions in the Pacific, after China sought to sign a multi-nation deal with countries in the region, as well as multiple bilateral partnerships.

Indonesia had raised concerns last year about Australia signing up to the AUKUS security pact with the United Kingdom and US, as well as its decision to acquire nuclear submarines as part of the deal.

New treasurer Jim Chalmers has already spoken with his Indonesian counterpart ahead of the prime ministers visit.

The visit to Indonesia by Albanese wont be the only one this year, with Indonesia also playing host to the G20 summit.

World leaders will meet in Bali in November, while finance ministers will meet in July.
As US regulators restrict antibiotic use, livestock producers turn to vaccines, hormones, and other problematic drugs

Many people know about the routine use of antibiotics in livestock productionand object to it. The drugs are profitable to meat producers because they cause animals to gain more weight with less feed and prevent the outbreak of disease in often cramped concentrated animal feeding operation (CAFOS) conditions.

In 2017, the Food and Drug Administration began regulatory measures to prevent the use of livestock antibiotics for growth purposes and recently finalized the guidances. Injudicious antibiotic use drives the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

As the extent of antibiotic residues and antibiotic-resistant bacteria in meat has been revealed, there has been a public backlash against the drugs use, resulting in some meat producers labeling their products raised without antibiotics. The problem consumers are unaware that other drugs are now being used in meat production and left off the labels. Worse, in an effort to reduce the publicly spurned antibiotics, meat producers are turning to vaccines.

Vaccines and other alternative products can help minimize the need for antibiotics by preventing and controlling infectious diseases in animal populations, and are central to the future success of animal agriculture, read a 2018 article in Veterinary Research.

How prevalent are livestock vaccines? Drugmaker Merck markets 58 poultry vaccines for diseases that food consumers neither know about nor probably want to know about like coccidiosis, infectious bronchitis, Newcastle disease, infectious laryngotracheitis, mycoplasma gallisepticum, Mareks disease (chicken herpes), infectious bursal disease, hemorrhagic enteritis, rhinotracheitis (turkey coryza), avian encephalomyelitis, fowl pox, and more.

In addition to vaccines for cattle, swine, and fish, food animals are also vaccinated as embryos.

By 2020, the animal vaccine market was estimated to be $7.2 billion.

In Ovo Vaccination

More than 90 percent of broiler chickens in the United States are vaccinated in ovo, according to research published in Veterinary Research in 2018. That means they are vaccinated as embryos in the egg. Vaccines are either directly injected into the embryo or into the amniotic cavity of the egg. But like human vaccines, the technology has its risks.

The authors of the Veterinary Research study report that the mass routine vaccination at the hatchery, is labor-intensive, causes stress for the chicks, and high sanitary standards need to be followed during vaccine preparation and injection to manage infection risks. Injecting vaccines at the wrong stage of embryonic development can be disastrous, they write, giving the example of 1o- to 12-day-old embryos who were injected with turkey herpes virus too early and developed lesions and died.

Are poultry and other food animal vaccines residues in the meat? Possibly. Researchers writing in the Archives of Virology in 2011 advised that a vaccine, particularly if injected subcutaneously, should be introduced into an area of the animal not used for human consumption such as behind the animals ear or in the area of the chest wall behind the elbow. That way, wrote the researchers, if there is any residual vaccine left or any reaction to it, there will be neither involvement of an edible part of the carcass nor trim losses in food animals.

Unlabeled Hormones

Have you ever heard of oestradiol-17, zeranol, trenbolone acetate, and melengestrol acetate? Probably not but they are hormones routinely used in U.S. cattle for growth production.

Much of the European Union looks askance at these hormonal drugs. According to the EUs Scientific Committee on Veterinary Measures Relating to Public Health, Misplaced [hormonal] implants and repeated implanting, which seem to occur frequently, represent a considerable risk that highly contaminated meats could enter the food chain.

The EU Scientific Committee also wrote that the highest rates of breast cancer are observed in North America, where hormone-treated meat consumption is highest in the worldProstate cancer shows similar variations[and] is comparable to that of breast cancer. These cancers are known to be hormone-dependent or hormonally mediated.

Scientists writing in the journal Anticancer Research say the hormone zeranol may play a critical role in mammary tumorigenesis and be a risk factor for breast cancer.

Few in the U.S. are aware that other countries reject U.S. hormone-raised beef. According to the Library of Congress, The United States and the European Union (EU) have engaged in a long-standing and acrimonious trade dispute over the EUs decision to ban hormone-treated meat. The conflicts intensified when, in 2009, the U.S. Trade Representative announced its intent to increase tariffs on some products. The EU claimed this constituted an escalation of the dispute.

As the United Kingdom prepared to leave the EU, the London-based Food Research Collaboration wrote, there is a risk that food standards may be sacrificed to win trade agreements with non-EU states such as the USA. This report looks at the case of hormone-treated beef, which is permitted in the U.S., but which the EU refuses to import. The World Trade Organization has accepted the EUs refusal to import hormone-reared beef. The report shows that at least one of the hormones routinely used in US beef production has been judged to be a significant cancer risk by the EU.

China also restricts beef from cattle implanted with growth promoting hormones, says the University of Minnesota Extension, a research and outreach partnership between the university and the state, federal and county governments. The Extension defends the drugs as promoting sustainability, and as natural as hormones found in plants.

A Problematic Growth Drug

Not many people are aware of ractopamine eitheran asthma-like drug designed to add weight to livestock but banned in 160 countries by 2014. In an early Canadian study, monkeys given ractopamine developed daily tachycardiarapid heartbeat. Rats fed ractopamine developed a constellation of birth defects like cleft palate, protruding tongue, short limbs, missing digits, open eyelids, and enlarged heart.

In Taipei City, Taiwan in 2007, 3,500 pig farmers gathered at the Department of Health and Council of Agriculture to protest the possible lifting of a ractopamine ban, Taiwan News reported. Chanting, We refuse to eat pork that contains poisonous ractopamine, and Get out, USA pork protesters threw eggs at police, soldiers, and reporters and pig dung at government buildings.

According to Temple Grandin, the famed American scientist and animal behaviorist concerned with humane slaughter, the indiscriminant use of the beta-adrenergic agonist Paylean (ractopamine) has contributed to an increase in downer non-ambulatory pigs, and pigs that are extremely difficult to move and drive.

All of the studies showed that beta-agonists greatly increased muscle mass and the area of the loin. The cost of this increased amount of meat is poorer meat quality and bad effects on animal welfare unless beta-agonists are used very carefully, Temple adds.

An article in the 2003 Journal of Animal Science confirms that ractopamine does affect the behavior, heart rate and catecholamine profile of finishing pigs and making them more difficult to handle and potentially more susceptible to handling and transport stress.

In Holsteins, ractopamine is known for causing hoof problems, Grandin says, and feedlot managers report the outer shell of the hoof fell off on a related drug, zilpateral, which is marketed as Zilmax.

In 2014, the Center for Food Safety and Animal Legal Defense Fund sued the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for withholding information about ractopamines effects on animal or human liver form and function, kidney form and function, thyroid form and function, urethral and prostate effects and tumor development.

Conclusion

Thanks to consumer pressure, some meat sellers are producing their products without antibiotics. However, if they are replacing the controversial drugs with vaccines, is that really better? Moreover, the copious use of hormones and ractopamine, not on the label, should also be concerning to health-conscious food consumers.
Upon learning that the grooms grandparents never had a first dance at their own wedding in 1957, an engaged couple from New York decided to surprise the beloved pair on their special day, 65 years later. They gave their first dance away.

Bride Samantha Graff, 26, told The Epoch Times that she and her now-husband, Zachary Graff, 27, came up with the idea together.

We found out shortly after we got engaged that Grammy and Grandpa hadnt got their first dance, and it broke our hearts. To us, its such a huge part of your wedding day and something you will never forget, she said. When we found out, it wasnt a question of if we were going to give them a first dance, the question was how we were going to pull it off perfectly.

Zacharys grandparents Elaine and Morton Graff. (Courtesy of Samantha Graff)

Samantha, an attorney from Hicksville, New York, met Zachary, a high school earth science teacher-in-training from Rockaway, New Jersey, in 2014 during their freshman year at New Yorks University at Albany. They connected after Zacharys best friend found Samanthas credit card in the quad, and Zachary returned it. No money spent! Samantha joked.

Zacharys grandfather Morton Graff, 87, a former entrepreneur with a shoe business, married his sweetheart Elaine Graff, 84, a former administrative assistant, on March 10, 1957. They tied the knot at the Empire Hotel in Manhattan, New York. But as Morton was sitting shiva for his mother, the couple could not have their first dance.

It is Jewish tradition that during that time there are to be no celebrations, said Samantha, so while they still got married, there was no dancing or music whatsoever at their wedding.

Samantha and Zachary kept their first-dance plan a secret for three years ahead of their April 2, 2022, nuptials, hoping to capture their families raw reactions. It worked; when Morton and Elaine were called to the dance floor at Hanover Manor in East Hanover, New Jersey, they were shocked.

They had no idea what was about to happen. There was not a dry eye in the whole place! said Samantha.

The family caught the magical moment on camera, from the newlyweds announcement to Zacharys grandparents shock, and their first tentative steps on the dance floor in front of their loved ones to the Andy Williams classic Love Is A Many Splendored Thing.

The video went viral on TikTok.

Samantha and Zachary, who have settled in Franklin Square, New York, originally got married on April 18, 2021, in Clifton, New Jersey. It was a small ceremony with immediate family only, due to the pandemic. Both were over the moon for a second chance to celebrate their union.

Zachary, Samantha, and their grandparents at the first wedding in 2021. (Courtesy of Samantha Graff)

Getting to have two wedding daysone incredibly intimate, and the other celebrating with all of our family and friendswas more than we couldve ever hoped for, and two days that well remember and cherish forever, Samantha said.

From the day she met her husbands family, Samantha knew how close-knit they were, especially with Zacharys grandparents.

Grammy and Grandpa are role models to Zach, in both a professional and personal sense, she praised, adding, [They] are truly role models to both of us, in every aspect of life.

Share your stories with us at emg.inspired@epochtimes.com, and continue to get your daily dose of inspiration by signing up for the Inspired newsletter at TheEpochTimes.com/newsletter
The North Korean flag flies above the North Korean embassy in Beijing on March 9, 2018. (Greg Baker/AFP via Getty Images)

North Korea Fires Another Ballistic Missile: South Korean Military

North Korea fired at least one ballistic missile off its east coast on June 5, South Koreas military stated.

South Koreas joint chiefs of staff said it was an unknown missile and didnt immediately specify how far it flew.

It marks North Koreas 18th round of missile launches in 2022. The previous missile launch occurred less than two weeks ago, when it launched three ballistic missiles just hours after U.S. President Joe Biden ended his trip to Asia.

The missile firing comes a day after a top U.S. envoy departed Seoul, South Korea. Special envoy Sung Kim met with his South Korean and Japanese counterparts on June 3.

At the trilateral meeting, Sung said the countries are preparing for all contingencies after Washington assessed that North Korea is preparing to carry out a nuclear test for the first time since September 2017, when it claimed to have detonated a thermonuclear bomb to fit on its intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM).

We are prepared to make both short and longer-term adjustments to our military posture as appropriate and responding to any [North Korea] provocation and as necessary to strengthen both defense and deterrence to protect our allies in the region, he said. We want to make clear to the DPRK [Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea, or North Korea] that its unlawful and destabilizing activities have consequences and that the international community will not accept these actions as normal.

After Pyongyangs latest launch, the U.S. IndoPacific Command said in a statement that its aware of the DPRKs multiple ballistic missile launches and are consulting closely with our allies and partners.

While we have assessed that this event does not pose an immediate threat to U.S. personnel or territory, or to our allies, these missile launches highlight the destabilizing impact of the DPRKs illicit weapons program, the statement reads. The U.S. commitment to the defense of the Republic of Korea and Japan remains ironclad.

North Korea has a nuclear testing site in Punggye-ri, a town in the northeast. The Kim regime demolished the site in May 2018 to signal its commitment to end nuclear testing. But South Korean and U.S. intelligence recently reported spotting construction work at the site.

North Korea appears to have drastically ramped up its weapons tests this year, including its first ICBM test since 2017 in March.

Talks led by the United States seeking to get North Korea to advance denuclearization, including surrendering its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile arsenal, have been stalled since February 2019. At the time, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and then-President Donald Trump were unable to come to an agreement over disputes about U.S.-led international sanctions on Pyongyang.

The latest missile launch also comes a day after the U.S. aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan concluded a three-day naval drill with South Korea in the Philippine Sea, apparently their first drill involving a carrier since November 2017.

Aldgra Fredly and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
A man is reflected on Panasonic's logo at the Panasonic Center in Tokyo on Feb. 2, 2017. (Kim Kyung-Hoon/Reuters)

Panasonic Evaluating Choices of US State for Battery Plant: Executive

TOKYOJapans Panasonic Holdings Corp., which makes batteries for electric car maker Tesla, is evaluating which U.S. state it will choose as the site for a new battery plant, a top executive said on Friday.

Weve been making various considerations, but we are starting to evaluate, said Panasonic Energy Chief Executive Officer Kazuo Tadanobu, speaking to reporters during a round table event. No decision had been made yet, he added.

The Japanese conglomerate is looking at potential factory sites in Kansas and Oklahoma to supply the batteries to the U.S. electric automakers plant in Texas, two people with knowledge of the plan have said.

Tadanobu told investors and analysts on Wednesday that the company had shipped samples of its more powerful 4680 format electric car battery to Tesla.

The 4680 format battery46 millimeters in width and 80 millimeters in heightis about five times bigger than those that Panasonic currently supplies, meaning the U.S. electric automaker could be able to lower production costs and boost vehicles driving range.

Panasonic said mass production of the new battery is set to begin before the end of March 2024 at its plant in Wakayama, western Japan, before production is moved to North America.

The Japanese company has partnered with Tesla for more than a decade, supplying batteries for its first cars.

Since then, the electric automaker has diversified supply chain and brought in other firms such as Chinas Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. (CATL) and South Koreas LG Energy Solution.
Peter Stockland: The Abhorrent Treatment of MP Wagantall and Our Apathy in Not Even Asking Why

Commentary

On June 3, Saskatchewan Conservative MP Cathay Wagantall joined some illustriousor if you prefer notoriousHouse of Commons company.

Wagantall became one of only three MPs in the history of our Parliament to be formally barred from crossing the bar of the House. One such predecessor is Louis Riel, who you may recall led two rebellions against Canada and was bounced out twice as an MP before being hanged (justly or unjustly) for treason. A second, Montreal politician Thomas McGreevy, was jailed for a year in 1891 after being convicted of defrauding the federal government while serving as an MP. The third, the communist MP Fred Rose, was imprisoned from 1947 to 1951 for being the ringleader of a gang of 20 spies stealing atomic weapons secrets for the Soviet Union.

Wagantalls name was added to infamys roll call not because she fomented insurrection, nor because she trafficked in criminal greed, nor because she sold out Canada to the architects of the Gulag Archipelago. No. She simply refused to say whether or not she has been vaccinated against COVID-19.

But did she knowingly spread infection as part of an underhanded plot to decimate the Liberal-NDP ranks and so bring the current minority government crashing down through the tactical deployment of quarantine? She did not. She simply informed the Commons Board of Internal Economy that her medicinal regimes are a private matter between her and her doctor.

Did she, then, surreptitiously and maliciously breathe in the Prime Ministers direction as payback for his handling of the truckers protest earlier this year? Au contraire. On May 31, she actually broke bread with the prime minister at the head table of the National Prayer Breakfast where the majority hope was to be breathed on with the breath of God.

Lex dura sed lex, said MPs who adjudicate the rules and running of the House, including the rule that any MPs such as Wagantall who refuse to declare their COVID vaccination status will be run out of the House. The law is harsh, but it is the law. In this case, to quote the immortal words of Mr. Bumble in Oliver Twist, the law, sir, is (also) a ass.

As in a flop-eared, braying-voiced, stubborn, irrational beast. To make a COVID disobedience poster child of a hard-working, dedicated, and duly elected Member of Parliament like Cathay Wagantall takes a special kind of mulishness. To put her on the post office wall of shame with the unholy trinity of a violent rebel, a plunderer of the treasury who was supposed to be safeguarding the nations wealth, and a traitorous thief delivering atomic bomb data to no less than Joseph Stalin, requires a particular species of jackanape.

Except, of course, these days, it doesnt, which is really the issue. These days, every Tom, Fred, and Louis who brushes up against the power surge of COVID authority seems capable of decisions that are utterly shocking in how little we are shocked by them anymore.

The day before Wagantall was being blocked in her ability to do her duty as an MP, CBC News reported the case of a Montreal couple who were ordered into 14-day quarantine on May 22, not because they were infected with COVID, not because they were spreading COVID, not even because they refused COVID vaccination. Perfectly COVID clear, perfectly compliant with federal COVID vaccine requirements, Ron Daymond and Evelyn Herskovitz failed to use a Canada Border Services Agency app after returning to Canada from a one-dayone day!trip to Plattsburgh, N.Y., an hours drive south of Montreal. Luckyheavy sarcasmfor them, they werent also hit with a possible $5,000 fine for their in-app-propriate crossing of the border. As it was, the quarantine order cost Daymond two weeks of pay for time lost from work.

The app in question, ArriveCan, has wreaked so much havoc at border crossings across the country that it should be rechristened ArriveCant. A feed store near the border in Calais, Maine, is making five bucks a Canuck teaching befuddled Canadians how to make the wretched thing function. Faced with such a blistering service failure, Border Service bigwigs have graciouslyheavier sarcasmoffered to give Canadians a one-time do-over the first time they return to their home country without using the app. Yet they insist it will remain in use, even though users cant use it, until at least June 30.

The obvious question to ask is why. But after what has happened to Cathay Wagantall, the more critical question to ask is what has COVID done to us that we are no longer shocked enough to even ask why anymore?

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
By Elin McCoy

From Bloomberg News

When the temperature soars and the sun is shining at 7 p.m., you know rose days are underway again.

What people call the happy wine has always been something to sip without taking it, or yourself, too seriously. Rose is about embracing fun, the beach, day-drinking and personal style, which is surely why we all guzzled it during the doom and gloom of a pandemic that isnt over yet.

Get ready. As more wineries rush to cash in on the popularity of pink, styles are expanding. This year brings a wave of new-spin versions worth sipping; some others are, predictably, more marketing hype than taste.

For example, the number of pricey prestige roses aged in French oak barrels is growing rapidly, especially in the $35 to $50 category. The idea is to create the kind of complexity that repays aging. Keep in mind that few have that thirst-quenching juiciness that makes roses great aperitifs around the pool. Theyre best served with food.

New celebrity roses just keep coming, too, but they rarely distinguish themselves as wines. The latest is from Reese Witherspoon, whos pushing her just-launched $19 Editors Collection, made by Sonomas Simi winery, as the essential sipper while reading one of the picks of her book club.

After overcoming a legal brouhaha, George Clooney finally closed on 425-acre Provence estate Domaine du Canadel, 30 minutes from Brad Pitts Miraval. Stay tuned for the inevitable rose launch.

Maybe next year?

Frances new hot spot for bargain rose is Languedoc, which sells 25% more pink wine than Provence, though the latter is still the ur-region. Not only is demand for favorites pushing prices up, wine tourism in Provence is also booming, with grand estates wooing enophiles with luxury digs and spas.

The 2021s arriving on shelves survived a challenging year in the south of France, with the first April frosts in 50 years and August wildfires that affected about 70 wineries. Dont worry, theres plenty of wine, quality is good, and 20% of the vineyards are now organic. The big problems for winemakers are obtaining the popular clear bottles and all-too-familiar shipping delays.

The fancy perfume-style rose bottle fashion that started in Provence has spread to Italy, New Zealand, California and Spain. At the other end, Julian Fayards delicious Just Pink California rose can now be had in a 5.2 gallon keg for $450. (Canned examples are everywhere, but thats for another column.)

And in a first, Chateau Galoupet, the neglected Provence cru classe purchased by Moet Hennessy in 2019, has just released its new 2021 Nomade cuvee in a rectangular, eco-friendly flat plastic bottle made from recycled materials salvaged from the ocean. In the UK it fetches 23 ($29) on website clos19.com, but its not in the US yet.

The most fascinating pink experiment Ive tried is a new California rose made with a winemaking technique used for Spanish sherry. For my verdict on it and other new examples, see my ratings below (on a scale of 10 points), arranged from least expensive to most expensive.

Rose Wine Bottle Buying Guide: 10 Best New Bottles

2021 Herdade do Esporao Monte Velho Rosato ($12)

This dark salmon-colored pink blend from Alentejo makes its U.S. debut this month. Its fresh, simple, richly fruity, and strawberry scented, and it uses a lighter-weight bottle. For the price its more than acceptable. Go ahead, put ice cubes in this party pour. 6.5/10

2021 The Beach by Whispering Angel ($17)

Rose guru Sacha Lichines latestan update on the Palmlaunched on May 1. The new blend comes in a lighter glass bottle and with a commitment to the Surfrider Foundation. Its bright and fresh and fruity, but not as good as Whispering Angel, which offers an official limited edition for the Queens Platinum Jubilee Pageant. 6.5/10

2020 Sothebys Rose Provence Lot 802 ($19)

One of the newest additions to the lineup of Sothebys own branded wines, this pink wine is positively gulp-able. Its everything you want in a savory, tangy pale Provence rose, and at a surprisingly reasonable price. 9/10

2021 Bodegas Ramon Bilbao Lalomba Finca Lalinde Rioja Rosado ($25)

Hugely enjoyable describes this zingy, spicy rosado, a blend of garnacha with a touch of viura. Barrel aging gives it a creamy texture and subtle complexity that pair well with seafood salad or oysters. The 2021 is the first vintage to sell in the U.S. 8/10

2021 Wayfarer WF2 Rose of Pinot Noir ($25)

Last year, Wayfarer launched its WF2 wines from the West Sonoma Coast, which just became the latest official American Viticultural Area. The WF2 wines remain barely known. 8/10

2021 Visione Feudo di San Gregorio Campania Rosato ($33)

The fancy frosted ribbed bottle for this tangy, refreshing crystal-clear Italian pink wine looks like it comes from Provence. But this fruit-and-herb scented wine, made with aglianico grapes, comes from a well-known producer in Italys Campania region. It arrives on shelves next month. 8/10

2021 Villa Ragazzi Rosato di Sangiovese (3 bottles, $105)

Youll have to rush to get bottles of this lip-smacking, bone-dry, crisp, pale-salmon wine because only 37 cases were made! Its from a Napa winery that specializes in Italian grape sangiovese. 8.5/10

2020 Orixe Sotelo Rose en Flor ($38)

This personal side project from Gustavo Sotelo, winemaker at Sonomas Scribe winery, focuses on Spanish varieties in California. The fresh, citrusy, unique rose, a blend of garnacha and tempranillo, is a brilliant surprise. Aging under a film of flor, or Sherry yeast, and then in huge oak casks gives it a salty, umami character and a structure that reminds me of a very light orange wine. Its a food wine. 9/10

2021 Tormaresca Furia di Calafuria ($38)

This new spicy, citrusy luxurious pink cuvee in a curvy bottle is a more serious take on the basic roses of Puglias Salento region in the heel of Italys boot. Zingy and super flavorful, its ideal with antipasto (or barbecue) on a patio overlooking a vista of blue water. It will arrive in the US on June 20. 8/10

2021 Sullivan Rutherford Estate Rose ($45)

Lively, serious, and complex, the second vintage of this Napa Valley rose is made from merlot, cabernet franc, and malbec. The historic under-the-radar estate is being brought back to life by Mexican entrepreneur Juan Pablo Torres Padilla, who purchased it in 2018. 9/10

2022 Bloomberg L.P. Visit bloomberg.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a meeting with families awarded Orders of Parental Glory via a video link at the Novo-Ogaryovo state residence, outside Moscow, on June 1, 2022. (Mikhail Metzel/Sputnik/AFP via Getty Images)

Putin Warns Russia Will Strike New Targets If US Gives New Missiles to Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin on June 5 warned that Russia would strike new targets if the United States were to supply longer-range missiles to Ukraine.

Giving new weapons to Kyiv only aims to drag out the armed conflict for as long as possible, Putin told state-run media, adding that after longer-range missiles are sent to Ukraine, Moscow will draw the appropriate conclusions and strike facilities it hasnt targeted.

If they are supplied, we will draw appropriate conclusions from this and use our own weapons, of which we have enough, in order to strike at those facilities we are not targeting yet, the Russian president also said in response to statements issued by the White House about supplying multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS) to Ukraine, according to a translation.

Several days ago, President Joe Biden confirmed that the United States would send more advanced rocket systems to Ukraine after Kyivs request.

A new package will arm them with new capabilities and advanced weaponry, including HIMARS with battlefield munitions, to defend their territory from Russian advances, Biden said in a White House statement on June 1.

We will continue to lead the world in providing historic assistance to support Ukraines fight for freedom. HIMARS refers to High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems produced in the United States that can hit targets up to 300 miles away, depending on the type of rocket.

US M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launchers fire salvos during a military exercise in the Grier Labouihi region, in Morocco, on June 9, 2021. (Fadel Senna/AFP/Getty Images)

Ukraine has been seeking multiple launch rocket systems such as the M270 and M142 HIMARS to strike troops and weapons stockpiles at the Russian forces rear.

A senior White House official told reporters from several news outlets on May 31 that the United States will send munitions that will enable the Ukrainians to more precisely strike targets on the battlefield from a greater distance, while claiming that Ukraine gave assurances that its forces wouldnt strike targets inside Russia.

On June 5, meanwhile, Russian forces struck Kyiv, the capital, for the first time in several weeks, while Ukrainian officials said a counterattack on the main battlefield in the east had retaken half the city of Sievierodonetsk.

Ukraine said Russia had carried out the strike using long-range air-launched missiles fired from heavy bombers as far away as the Caspian Sea, a weapon far more valuable than the tanks Russia has claimed to have hit.

The Kremlin resorts to new insidious attacks. Todays missile strikes at Kyiv have only one goalkill as many as possible, Ukrainian presidential adviser Mikhailo Podolyak said on Twitter.

During the same interview released over the weekend, Putin also said that Russian anti-aircraft troops had taken down numerous Ukrainian weapons and were cracking them like nuts.

Underscoring the number of weapons being supplied to Ukraine, Spains government authorized sending anti-aircraft missiles to Kyiv, government officials told the El Pais newspaper on June 5. Spain would also provide training in how to use the new weapons, according to those officials, who said that would take place in Latvia.

Reuters contributed to this report.
A man looks at the smoke after explosions were heard as Russia's attacks on Ukraine continues, in Kyiv, Ukraine, on June 5, 2022. (Edgar Su/Reuters)

Russia Strikes Kyiv for First Time in Weeks as Battle Rages in East

KYIV, UkraineRussia struck Ukraines capital, Kyiv, with missiles early on June 5 for the first time in more than a month, while Ukrainian officials said a counterattack on the main battlefield in the east had retaken half of the city of Sievierodonetsk.

Dark smoke could be seen from many miles after the attack on two outlying districts of Kyiv. Ukraine said the strike hit a rail car repair facility; Moscow said it had destroyed tanks sent by Eastern European countries to Ukraine.

At least one person was hospitalized; there were no immediate reports of deaths. The strike was a sudden reminder of war in a capital where normal life has largely returned since Russian forces were driven from its outskirts in March.

The Kremlin resorts to new insidious attacks. Todays missile strikes at Kyiv have only one goalkill as many as possible, Ukrainian presidential adviser Mikhailo Podolyak wrote on Twitter.

Ukraine said Russia had carried out the strike using long-range air-launched missiles fired from heavy bombers as far away as the Caspian Seaa weapon far more valuable than the tanks Russia claimed to have hit.

Ukraines nuclear power operator said a Russian cruise missile had flown critically low over the countrys second-largest nuclear power plant.

The attack was the first big strike on Kyiv since late April, when a missile killed a journalist. Recent weeks have seen Russia focus mainly on front lines in the east and south, although Moscow occasionally strikes elsewhere in what it calls a campaign to degrade Ukraines military infrastructure and block Western arms shipments.

Residents chat in front of a destroyed building in Borodianka, as Russias attacks on Ukraine continue, Kyiv Region, Ukraine, on June 4, 2022. (Edgar Su/Reuters)

Ukraine Claims Half of Sievierodonetsk

Russia has concentrated its forces in recent weeks on the small eastern industrial city of Sievierodonetsk, pursuing one of the biggest ground battles of the war in a bid to capture one of two eastern provinces it claims on behalf of separatist proxies.

After retreating steadily in the city in recent days, Ukraine mounted a counterattack there, which it says took the Russians by surprise. After recapturing a swath of the city, Ukrainian forces were now in control of half of it and continuing to push the Russians back, said Serhiy Gaidai, governor of the Luhansk region that includes Sievierodonetsk.

The claims couldnt be independently verified. Both sides say they have inflicted huge casualties in Sievierodonetsk, a battle that could determine which side carries the momentum into a protracted war of attrition in coming months.

In another sign Ukraine has held off the Russian advance, Gaidai said evacuations resumed from the Ukrainian-held part of Luhansk province on June 5, and 98 people had escaped. Russian forces have been trying for weeks to cut the main route out to encircle Ukrainian troops there, and evacuations were halted last week after a journalist was killed by shelling.

Britains defense ministry said on June 5 that Ukrainian counterattacks in Sievierodonetsk over the past 24 hours were likely to blunt any operational momentum Russia had gained. Moscow was deploying poorly equipped separatist fighters in the city to limit the risk to its regular forces, it said.

In neighboring Donetsk province, which Moscow also claims on behalf of its separatist proxies, Russian forces have been advancing in recent days in territory north of the Siverskiy Donets river, in advance of what Ukraine anticipates could be a push on the major city of Sloviansk.

Ukrainian officials said at least eight people were killed and 11 injured in Russian shelling in the province overnight.

Putin Warns West on Arms

In an interview with Russian state television, President Vladimir Putin said Moscow would hit new targets if the West supplies longer-range missiles to Ukraine. But he also dismissed the significance of advanced rocket systems promised by Washington to Ukraine last week, saying they wouldnt affect the course of fighting.

The United States is already training Ukrainian troops on its HIMARS rocket launchers, which would be able to hit positions far behind Russian lines. Kyiv says such weapons will help it shift the wars momentum.

Putin, in excerpts of his interview quoted by Russian news agencies ahead of broadcast, said that if the West supplies longer-range missiles, we will strike at those targets which we have not yet been hitting, without specifying the targets.

Russian forces had been hitting Ukrainian weapons systems and cracking them like nuts, he said, dismissing the new U.S. rockets as meant to make up for the losses of this military equipment and not likely to change the battlefield balance.

Kyiv rebuked French President Emmanuel Macron on June 4 for saying its important not to humiliate Moscow. Ukraine has bristled over what it considers pressure from some European allies to relinquish territory to secure a ceasefire.

Calls to avoid humiliation of Russia can only humiliate France and every other country that would call for it, Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba wrote on Twitter in response to Macrons remarks.

By Natalia Zinets and Pavel Polityuk
San Diego Man Points Gun at Firefighters, Police Before Taking His Own Life

SAN DIEGOA 62-year-old man who pointed a gun at firefighters during a blaze at an apartment complex aimed that same weapon at arriving police officers before taking his own life with a single gunshot wound, authorities said.

Officers were dispatched to a possible apartment fire in the 11200 block of Tierrasanta Boulevard at about noon on June 4, said Lt. Chris Steffen of the San Diego County Sheriffs Department.

They reported that firefighters saw smoke coming from an apartment and forcibly opened the front door to find the suspect sitting on a couch. He pointed a handgun at firefighters, who retreated from the apartment, Steffen said.

Officers, positioned in the hallway of the apartment, fired at the man after he pointed the gun at them while he exited the apartment, Steffen said.

The man ran back into his apartment, out of his back patio and down a walkway behind the apartment complex, he said. Officers on the perimeter of the apartment complex heard what sounded like a single gunshot outside of the complex.

A helicopter overhead saw the suspect lying motionless on the walkway.

The suspect was pronounced dead at the scene. Sheriffs officials urged anyone with information regarding the incident to call them at 858-285-6330.
100 years ago

1922: As the plans mature, it is plain to see that the Knights of Pythias lodge of Flagstaff has no intention of leaving anything undone to make our Fourth of July celebration the best ever. There will be a big jazz band. There will be frontier sports, including bull riding, calf roping, steer riding, bronco busting. There will be too many other things to tell you about this week, but one feature that must be mentioned now is the big free barbecue. It will be a two-day celebration, July 4 and 5. Watch for a full program next week. Write your friends to come to Flagstaff, where it is cool, to celebrate.

Have you visited the Flagstaff tourist campgrounds lately? The improvements going on there will make those already fine grounds ideal. Because of our fine water and climate, the location of the grounds among the big pines and the beauty of the scenery, the Flagstaff tourist campgrounds have all along been pronounced by those using them to be the best anywhere between the two oceans. But this year they are being made still better. The campgrounds have been moved farther back from the end of Birch Avenue to make room for a playground for the children. There are new cottages that have been built and shower baths at the city campground.

75 years ago

1947: Pine Park Manors, comprising about 40 acres east of Flagstaff in the area north of the Museum Club, will be subdivided into building lots and homesites. The developer is from Texas. The subdivision theme will be in the Pines for more sunshine and less snow. The new complete edition will feature homesites on circular hard surface drives, full sidewalks and curbing, and will include utilities. Work will begin within 30 days, and the indicated construction should aid materially in alleviating the present housing shortage in the City of Flagstaff.

Sturgeon Cromer, 38, graduate of Arizona State College at Flagstaff with the class of 1932, who has gained wide recognition in Arizona for his development of vocational training programs for high schools, arrived here this week to take over his duties as the new superintendent of Flagstaff schools. He replaces J. Q. Thomas, who has retired, and who moved to Harrington, Washington, this week with Mrs. Thomas to make their home. Cromer has been principal of Globe schools. He received all of his education in Arizona, with the exception of one summer at the University of Southern California.

50 years ago

1972: Flagstaffs principal source of water doesn't gain anything as the result of summer rains, but water usage in the city was cut by some 3 million gallons per day last week as a result of the early rains. City Water Superintendent James Rollinson reported today that usage was down to about 5 million gallons per day last week, even with scant rains, as compared to a figure of about 8 million gallons per day for the same time last year. This year, Rollinson said, there is no new water stored in Upper Lake Mary, the city's principal source of water, as a result of the rains, but the cut back on usage plus a cutback in evaporation loss is noteworthy. The lake lost approximately 44 million gallons of water last week and about one-third of that was the result of evaporation. The remainder was the result of seepage.

A coroner's inquest is expected to be set soon in connection with the death Saturday of Melvin Nichols, 21 years old from Endicott, New York. Nichols reportedly shot himself in the chest as Coconino County sheriff's deputies attempted to arrest him in connection with the shooting of a highway patrolman. J. C. Madeya was in very good condition today in Flagstaff Community Hospital, where he is recovering from a bullet wound. Madeya underwent surgery early Saturday evening for the wound; the slug apparently entered his lower back and exited his right upper chest. The county attorney called for statements from officers at the scene of Nichols death Saturday at the Walnut Canyon National Monument parking lot.

25 years ago

1997: Two fired city employees have upped the stakes in a lawsuit they are bringing against the City of Flagstaff, seeking 10 times as much money as they had sought before they were fired May 3. Kate Reschner, former city budget manager, said in an interview Tuesday that she and former city finance manager Lynda Ashby are seeking $15.3 million in damages against the city. They have also amended their lawsuit against the city to include City Manager Dave Wilcox and City Administrative Services Director Mary Jo Jenkins. In a new development, former Councilmember John McCulloch was criticized for the city's handling of the case and suggested that Wilcox and Jenkins be replaced. The claimants say they were responsible for ending controversial financial practices involving the secondary property taxes meant to pay off city debt. As a result, they maintain upper management at city hall ran them out of their jobs.

A sting operation against alleged local drug dealers has resulted in at least 24 arrests since Thursday. A four-month undercover investigation culminated that day when officers of the multi-agency metro unit served four search warrants and 16 arrest warrants, according to the Flagstaff police. Many of the arrests were for sales of cocaine, methamphetamine and other drugs allegedly made to undercover agents. Others were arrested for crimes discovered while officers were serving the warrants. Several were charged with facilitation of the sale of narcotic drugs -- which means helping a third party to sell drugs, often by setting up the deal.

All events were taken from issues of the Arizona Daily Sun and its predecessors, the Coconino Weekly Sun and the Coconino Sun.

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Sen. Chris Murphy: Biden Should Stay out of Bipartisan Gun Talks, Senate Needs to Do This Ourselves

Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), who is pushing for bipartisan talks in the Senate on potential gun control measures, said on Sunday that President Joe Biden should stay away and let Democrats negotiate with their Republican colleagues themselves.

During an appearance on CNNs State of the Union, Murphy was asked if adding Biden to the conversation would be helpful to his effort.

I think the Senate needs to do this ourselves, Murphy told CNNs Jake Tapper. Ive talked to the White House every single day since these negotiations began, but right now the Senate needs to handle these negotiations.

Chris Murphy said earlier this week that he has been trying to find that common ground with Republicans on a bipartisan package to address what he called gun violence, in light of the deadly attack at a Uvalde, Texas, elementary school.

Bidens proposed ban on so-called assault weapons, according to Murphy, is not part of the bipartisan common ground he seeks.

Right now were trying to discover what can get 60 votes, Murphy said. Were not gonna do everything I want. We are not going to put a piece of legislation on the table thats going to ban assault weapons, or were not going to pass comprehensive background checks.

Biden pleaded with Congress for a ban on sales of what he called assault weapons and high-capacity magazines on Thursday, while acknowledging that Congress is unlikely to pass such a measure.

If we cant ban assault weapons, then we should raise the age to purchase them from 18 to 21. Strengthen background checks. Enact safe storage laws and red flag laws. Repeal the immunity that protects gun manufacturers from liability. Address the mental health crisis deepening the trauma of gun violence and as a consequence of that violence, the president said in an evening address from the White House.

Some of Bidens proposals are on the table for bipartisan negotiations, including red flag laws and tightened background checks for gun-buyers, Murphy said.

Murphy also responded to a comment by Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas), who is tapped as an emissary of Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ken.) to negotiate with Democrats on the potential gun legislation. Cornyn wrote on Twitter that new Second Amendment restrictions are not gonna happen.

Were not going to do anything that compromises peoples Second Amendment rights, Murphy said when asked about Cornyns post. Were not going to do anything that compromises the ability of a law-abiding American to be able to buy a weapon. What were talking about is trying to make sure that dangerous or potentially dangerous individuals dont have their hands on weapons.

Murphy noted that Cornyn previously talked about the fact that the Uvalde shooters juvenile records were not made available to those performing a background check on the 18-year-old prior to his weapon purchase. I think there is an agreement among the negotiators that were going to take some commonsense steps that do not compromise Second Amendment rights, he said.
Police vehicles at the scene of a shooting in Phoenix on March 29, 2020. (Ross D. Franklin/AP Photo)

Teen Girl Killed, 8 Injured in Phoenix Strip Mall Shooting

A shooting at a strip mall early Saturday in Phoenix, Arizona, left a 14-year-old girl dead and eight others injured, with two being treated for life-threatening injuries, according to Phoenix police.

Injuries sustained by others, including a teenage boy, are not life-threatening and they were all transported to local hospitals.

The shooting happened sometime after midnight in the northwest of downtown Phoenix after an altercation between multiple parties escalated into a violent confrontation. Victims were all aged between 17 and 24.

I heard over a hundred gunshots going off. I heard people doing burnouts and doing donuts in the street for probably a good hour and a half prior to gunshots going off, said an unnamed woman to ABC15 News.

Authorities are attempting to piece together eyewitness accounts. No suspects have been immediately identified and no arrests have been made yet.

Phoenix Police Department Sgt. Andy Williams said during a news conference that a fight started in a large gathering of around 100 people which then escalated. The 1 a.m. shooting happened inside the mall premises as well in the parking lot and the roadway, sending people running near 10th Avenue and Hatcher Road.

Many rounds were shot into this crowd of people as everyone fled the area, Williams said.

There were some little girls that ran over there asking if they could hide. The police came just in time, so it was like, theyre there, everythings ok. And they got up and went in the opposite direction, said Theresa Juan, who lives nearby, according to Arizonas Family digital news.

In that little strip mall, theres some little recording studio or something. Thats where the parties were happening at. The prior two times they had parties, they had shootings also, Chad Martinez, who also lives nearby, told the media outlet.

Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said on Twitter in response to the latest shooting: Seems we cant go a day without another mass shooting. This time, its Phoenix, at 10th Avenue & Hatcher. Time has run out. Change must happen now.

Besides the mall incident, there were two other shootings in Phoenix around the same time. In both shootings, two separate victims were shot and pronounced deadone, a teenage boy near 13th and Vogel avenues, and the other, a man in a vehicle near 39th and Grand avenues. It is not clear whether the deadly incidents were related.

The latest Phoenix episode follows the Uvalde elementary school massacre of 19 students and two teachers.

Anyone with information is urged to call the Phoenix Police Department or Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS.
Police on scene at a Tops Friendly Market after a mass shooting at the store in Buffalo, N.Y., on May 14, 2022. (John Normile/Getty Images)

The ADL Murder Report That Cried White Supremacist

In May 2021, two members of the Family Values, a white supremacist prison gang, allegedly killed a member of the rival Southwest Honkeys prison gang over a longstanding beef. Three months later, a New Jersey man who had vandalized synagogues and distributed neo-Nazi pamphlets strangled his wife.

On the surface, the crimes would appear to have little more in common than their brutality. But the Anti-Defamation League includes these murders by white men of other whites in its tally of right-wing and white supremacist murders in its report, Murder & Extremism in the United States in 2021.

In 2021, white supremacists were responsible for more murders than any other type of extremist; in many years, they comprised an outright majority of the extremist murders that year, the report said. Indeed, over the past 10 years, white supremacists have committed 244 (55 percent) of the 443 killings that the ADL (COE) has documented.

The ADL also claims that other right-wing extremists were responsible for another 20 percent of extremist killings during the 10-year-period (2012-21)including those it describes as anti-government and incel/manosphere (typically, involuntary celibates or misogynists).

The report has been cited repeatedly in media pieces as evidence of the lethal threat posed by far-right extremists since a mentally disturbed 18-year-old white supremacist murdered 10 African Americans and injured three others at a Buffalo market on May 14. Its stark warning has helped provide a backdrop for the narrative advanced by the White House, advocacy groups, and national media outlets that toxic white nationalism permeates American society. White supremacy is a poison. Its a poison  running through our body politic, President Biden said in his speech in Buffalo after the shooting.  And its been allowed to grow and fester right before our eyes.

But a closer examination of the statistics compiled by the ADL  which did not respond to requests for comment but did email a letter post-publication  casts doubt on using the figures as evidence that African Americans or any other Americans are under increasing or serious threats from racist white zealots. The report was publicized in a month of back-to-back massacres by mentally disturbed young men, the latest by a member of a heavily Hispanic community in Texas, suggesting mass killings defy pat analysis.

Critics cite significant problems with the ADL presentation. Like other organizations tracking extremism, the ADL rarely offers context to claims regarding extremist murders by comparing them to broader homicide statistics. During the same 10-year period cited by the ADL in its 2021 report citing 244 murders by white supremacists, there were at least 165,000 murders in the U.S., meaning those the group attributes to white supremacists accounted for .001 percent of such violent deaths in that decade.

That statistic pales in comparison with those of major cities that have seen shocking increases in bloodshed, with recent annual murder totals breaking or nearing records set in the 20th century. Chicago had 797 murders in 2021, the highest total in 25 years, while much smaller Minneapolis, one year after George Floyd died in police custody there, had 96 murders, one shy of the citys 1995 record. Huge jumps in murders also occurred in Philadelphia, Los Angeles, and other metropolitan areas.

The FBI has not issued the official number of murders in the U.S. in 2021, but it is expected to exceed the number of murders in 2020: 21,570  of which, according to ADL, 23 were committed by extremists, Carl Moody, an economist at the College of William & Mary who studies crime, told RealClearInvestigations.

The data presented by the ADL could also be characterized as follows: the number of murders committed by extremists is very small, only 29 in 2021, of which less than half were committed by white supremacists, Moody said. It is also 63 percent lower than the maximum number (78) in 2016, so extremism is down since 2016. In 2020, according to the CDC, 1080 people were killed falling out of bed. Therefore, you are 47 times more likely to be killed by a bed than by an extremist.

Its important that we get the numbers right and in perspective, said John Lott, president of the Crime Prevention Research Center. And weve had mainstream narratives that make it sound like they are all like the Buffalo killer. But there are very specific circumstances to a number of these shootings. If there is a significant threat to blacks from these kinds of mass attacks they need to know that. Otherwise, youre creating divisions that dont need to be there.

Crime experts also note that many of the killings cited by the ADL  such as the slaying committed by Shawn Lichtfuss, the New Jersey man who killed his wife, or John Hilt and Justin Murphy, the allegedly lethal members of the Family Values prison gang  were not hate crimes aimed at terrorizing blacks or other minorities.

These include:

A white supremacist with a swastika and SS tattoos on his face who killed another man in an extended-stay hotel following an argument over a social media post.

An alleged member of a Fresno, California, white supremacist street gang who allegedly [shot] a man with whom he had long been feuding.

Four members of the New Mexico Aryan Brotherhood who were involved in a shootout amongst themselves inside a vehicle.

At the same time, critics say the ADL overstates the percentage of white supremacist murders because it omits some high-profile crimes committed by non-whites. Lott provided eight examples of mass killings  traditionally defined as those with four or more fatalities  excluded by the ADL in its decade-long tally. One of those was the 2016 attack a black man launched against white police officers in Dallas that killed 5 and wounded 11.

The ADL report also does not include the more recent carnage in Waukesha, Wisconsin, last November when a black man with a history of racist social posts drove into a mostly white crowd in a Christmas parade, killing six and injuring 62. For 2021, the ADL lists just two murders by people it classifies as black nationalists. If the Waukesha victims were included, black racist murders would account for 23 percent of extremist murders (8 of 35) for 2021.

The Wisconsin car attack is one that is very hard to miss, Lott said. It is such an obvious and well-known case that you have to wonder if they omitted it because it goes against their narrative.'

The ADLs own report indicates that many of the killings it attributes to white supremacists do not fit common understandings of racist hate crimes. It reports, for example, that 76 of the 244 killings, or 31 percent, were committed by members, suspected members, or associates of white supremacist prison gangs. They were the deadliest group profiled, and given the nature of prison gangs as organized crime groups, it is predictable that many of the murders would be related to traditional criminal activities, ranging from drug-related murders to killings committed in robberies.

Indeed, the ADL admits that the majority of murders it attributes to white supremacists were non-ideological.

Over the past 10 years, only 86 of the 244 white supremacist killings (35 percent) were ideological murders, the report said. The remainder were group-related but not ideological attacks, were related to traditional criminal activities, or were murders for which no clear motive could be determined.

That finding tracks with a March 2021 report from Lotts organization addressing what it called the false narrative of white supremacists doing mass public shootings. Examining all shootings involving four or more fatalities from 1998 to March 2021, it found in 71 percent of them no mention of political affiliation of the shooters. The report determined that 4 percent are right-wingers or conservatives or Republicans, 6 percent were liberals or Democrats or left-wing, and 10 percent were Muslim. About 9 percent are white supremacist, neo-Nazis, or anti-immigrant, but these people come from both the left and the right. Mass public shootings make up a small percentage of murders, and anti-minority mass public shooters are not the biggest threat even in that group.

Brian Levin, who heads the Center for the Study of Hate & Extremism at California State University-San Bernardino, said it can be difficult to pinpoint precise motivations of mass murderers, as we are seeing less rigid ideological killers who increasingly seem to browse at a buffet of hatreds.

The Buffalo killers overwhelming hatred, however, was racist, as he expressed both the belief that blacks are inferior and angst over a kind of global conspiracy called the great replacement theory, Levin said.

In his 180-page rant published while he was allegedly opening fire in Buffalo, the extremist described himself at various points as a mild/moderate left authoritarian, and he viewed conservatism with contempt as a corporate catspaw.

In whole or in part, hes a Nazi, Levin said. He hates Jews, he hates blacks  hatred is the primary driver.

To be sure, targeted racist mass murders invoke a terror that everyday murders do notmassacres such as those by Dylann Roof at an African-American church in Charleston in 2015 (9 dead, one injured); the Pittsburgh Tree of Life synagogue shooting in 2018 (11 dead, 6 injured); the 2019 attack at the El Paso Walmart (23 dead, 23 wounded); as well as the recent attack in Buffalo. When such killers target African Americans, Jews, or others on racist terms, the crimes have a disproportionate impact on how they and all Americans may perceive the atmosphere, Levin said.

Not all crimes have the same effect on the American psyche, Levin said. Ill leave it to others to talk about how the media covers it, but when Tony Soprano knocks off another criminal family wiseguy it does not have the kind of impact these manifesto mass killers do.

Levin said his research supports the idea that right-wing extremists are a huge threat and he pointed to other studies that have drawn the same conclusion.

Nevertheless, critics say the evidence indicates that the emphasis the White House and media outlets have thrown on the threat posed by white supremacist killings is misleading.

Death by extremist is an incredibly rare event, said Moody, the William & Mary economist. It is absurd to try to generalize from such tiny numbers.

This article was written by James Varney for RealClearInvestigations
Rainfall from Tropical Storm Alex floods the Brickell area near downtown Miami on June 4, 2022. (Pedro Portal/Miami Herald via AP)

Tropical Storm Alex Heads Toward Bermuda With High Winds

Tropical Storm Alex, the first named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, gained a bit more force as it headed toward Bermuda on Sunday after killing three people in Cuba and causing flooding in parts of Florida.

Alex reached tropical storm force early Sunday after strengthening off Floridas east coast early Sunday.

National Hurricane Center forecasters said at 2 a.m. ET (1800 GMT) that Alexs maximum sustained winds had increased to 65 mph (105 kph) and was centered about 475 miles (765 kilometers) west-southwest of Bermuda.

It was moving to the east-northeast at a brisk 23 mph (37 kph) and was expected to pass near or just north of Bermuda on Monday and a tropical storm warning was in effect there. Forecasters said it could bring 2 to 3 inches (50 to 75 mm) of rain across Bermuda late Sunday and Monday.

National Security Minister Michael Weeks said emergency services were monitoring Alex.

In Cuba, the storm killed three people, damaged dozens of homes in Havana and cut off electricity in some areas, according to authorities. Heavy rainfall continued Saturday, but was diminishing as the weather system moved away from the island.

Parts of South Florida experienced road flooding from heavy rain and wind Saturday. Officials in Miami warned drivers about road conditions as many cars were stuck on flooded streets.

Furniture and plants from the RedBar Brickell bar litter the sidewalk after rainfall from Tropical Storm Alex caused flooding in the Brickell area near downtown Miami on June 4, 2022. (Pedro Portal/Miami Herald via AP)

This is a dangerous and life-threatening situation. Traveling during these conditions is not recommended. Its better to wait. Turn around, dont drown, the city of Miami said on Twitter.

The city was towing stranded vehicles from flooded roadways.

Miami Beach Mayor Dan Gelber said the storm tested the system of drainage pumps the city recently installed as climate change has increasingly made flooding an issue in the low-lying area.

We moved the water off pretty quickly, but in some areas, obviously, it was really challenging, Gelber said. There were some problems getting through on some streets, one of the main arteries was unpassable, but by and large water is dissipating.

Alex partially emerged from the remnants of Hurricane Agatha, which slammed into Mexicos Pacific Coast last week, killing at least nine people and leaving five missing.

The Atlantic hurricane season officially began Tuesday. This is an unusually early start to the storm season but not unprecedented for Florida.
A U.S. postal worker puts his seatbelt on after filing up his vehicle at a gas station in Garden Grove, Calif., on March 29, 2022. (Mike Blake/Reuters)

US Gas Prices Have Doubled Since Biden Took Office: AAA Data

The average U.S. price for a gallon of regular gasoline has more than doubled since President Joe Biden took over, based on data released this weekend.

When Biden took office on Jan. 20, 2021, the average price for a gallon of regular-grade gasoline stood at $2.39. But as of June 5, the price increased to about $4.85 per gallon, according to AAA.

No state averages less than $4 per gallon. California leads the way at $6.32 per gallon, followed by Hawaii and Nevada at $5.47.

As a result, demand for gasoline is dropping, according to GasBuddy analyst Patrick De Haan, who wrote on Twitter: According to GasBuddy data, weekly US gasoline demand fell 2.3% from the prior week and was 1.5% below the rolling four-week average.

Americans will be spending $94 million more on gasoline today compared to just a week ago. Were spending $1.82 billion on gasoline every ~24 hours.

Republicans responded to the ongoing surge in prices by highlighting the Biden administrations and Democrats policies.

Joe Bidens war on American energy has forced families across the country to empty their wallets to fill their tanks, RNC Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel told Fox News on June 5. Unfortunately, Biden is doubling down on his disastrous agenda because hes not the one paying the pricethe American people are.

During a news conference late last week, Biden told reporters that Americans dont really care why gas prices are elevated, and they just want them to drop.

White House officials, meanwhile, have taken a defensive stance, saying that the federal government isnt responsible for the higher price. In recent months, Biden and other administration officials have blamed it on the RussiaUkraine conflict, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC).

Speaking in an ABC News interview, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg echoed that rhetoric on June 5, saying: We know that the price of gasoline is not set by a dial in the Oval Office.

When an oil company is deciding, hour by hour, how much to charge you for a gallon of gas, theyre not calling the administration to ask what they should do. Theyre doing it based on their goal on maximizing their profits.

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre last week claimed that Bidens policies have helped the economy get back on its feet, while again blaming the spike on Putin.

However, last week, Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) told Fox Business that the Biden administrations policies were designed to raise gas prices. He cited a statement that was recently made by Biden in which he said the rise in prices is part of an incredible transition to electric vehicles.

I think thats the main takeaway from his statement, that he is telling the American people theyre doing this to you on purpose, that the transition period is being imposed by policies coming from the Biden administration, Graham said.

This is a conscious effort by the Biden administration to destroy fossil fuel production in the United States, to get away from fossil fuels, and youre living this experience. This is an irresponsible shutting down of oil and gas production in America, making us more dependent on oil and gas from bad actors, and its destroying the American economy.
U.S. nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (R) and South Korea's landing platform helicopter (LPH) ship Marado (2nd L) sail during a joint military exercise at an undisclosed location on June 4, 2022. (South Korea Defense Ministry via AP)

US, South Korean Navies Hold Key Exercise Amid North Korea Tension

SEOUL, South KoreaThe U.S. aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan concluded a naval exercise with South Korea in the Philippine Sea on Saturday, the two militaries said, amid signs that North Korea is possibly preparing to conduct its first nuclear test explosion since 2017.

The three-day exercise that began Thursday in international waters off the Japanese island of Okinawa was apparently the allies first joint drill involving a U.S. aircraft carrier since November 2017.

The Ronald Reagan then joined the USS Theodore Roosevelt and Nimitz in a rare three-carrier exercise with South Korean naval vessels during North Koreas last provocative run in nuclear and intercontinental ballistic missile tests.

The latest drill came weeks after President Joe Biden and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol in a summit in Seoul vowed to upgrade defense exercises and discuss ways to for Washington to protect its ally in the face of growing North Korean threats.

The U.S. Navys 7th Fleet said that the exercise was aimed at strengthening the interoperability of the two navies.

U.S. nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (2nd L) and South Koreas landing platform helicopter (LPH) ship Marado (L) sail during a joint military exercise at an undisclosed location on June 4, 2022. (South Korea Defense Ministry via AP)

On Friday, Bidens special envoy for North Korea, Sung Kim, said Washington is preparing for all contingencies in close coordination with South Korea and Japan as it monitors North Korean arrangements for a possible nuclear test that could be imminent.

Kim, who was in Seoul for a trilateral meeting with his South Korean and Japanese counterparts to discuss the nuclear standoff with North Korea, said Washington assesses that the North is pressing ahead with preparations at its nuclear testing ground in the northeastern town of Punggye-ri.

The Norths next test would be its seventh since 2006 and the first since September 2017, when it claimed to have detonated a thermonuclear bomb to fit on its intercontinental ballistic missiles.

Nuclear negotiations between Washington and Pyongyang have stalled since 2019 over disagreements in exchanging the release of crippling U.S.-led sanctions for the Norths disarmament steps.

North Korea has already conducted missile tests 18 times this year, including its first ICBM demonstrations in nearly five years.

North Korea fired at least one ballistic missile off its east coast on Sunday, South Koreas military said.

It marks North Koreas 18th round of missile launches in 2022. The previous missile launch was less than two weeks ago, when it launched three ballistic missiles just hours after Biden ended his trip to Asia.
This March 17, 2020, photo provided by the Wisconsin Department of Corrections shows Douglas K. Uhde. (Wisconsin Department of Corrections via AP)

Wisconsin Judges Alleged Killer Identified, Reportedly Had a Hit List

Officials identified the alleged suspect who killed a Wisconsin judge last week and said the killer had apparently had Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on his hit list.

Douglas K. Uhde was identified by the Wisconsin Department of Justice as the alleged assassin. Hes hospitalized in critical condition, according to Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul in a statement released on Saturday.

The suspect is accused of entering the home of 68-year-old retired Judge John Roemer at around 6:30 a.m. Friday and killed him, officials said.

Uhde was located in the basement with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. Law enforcement began life-saving measures, the Department of Justice release said, and Uhde was transported to a medical facility and remains in critical condition. A firearm was recovered at the scene.

The states Justice Department indicated that the shooting appeared to be a targeted act against Roemer. A report from the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, citing records, said Uhde was sentenced by Roemer in 2005 to six years in prison on a burglary charge.

Uhde has an extensive criminal and prison record dating back at least two decades. He was released from his last prison stint in April 2020.

Zach Pohl, Whitmers deputy chief of staff, told Politico that the governors office was told by officials that her name appeared on the Wisconsin gunmans list. Pohl added, Governor Whitmer has demonstrated repeatedly that she is tough, and she will not be bullied or intimidated from doing her job and working across the aisle to get things done for the people of Michigan.

Alleged law enforcement sources told The Associated Press that several other prominent officials, including Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) and Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers also appeared on the list. The Epoch Times has contacted McConnells office for comment.

State law enforcement officials have not issued any public statements on reports of the alleged hit list.

However, Kaul said in a news conference on Friday that the suspect appears to have had other targets as well. It appears to be related to the judicial system. At the time, Kaul did not name Uhde as the suspect or any of the officials on his hit list.

Roemer, 68, was a very loving, very encouraging man with a wonderful sense of humor who will be dearly missed by the community, said Chip Wilke, pastor at St. Pauls Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mauston, where Roemer was president of the congregation and evangelism chairman. He was in my office several mornings a week.

The judge retired from the bench in 2017. He was first elected in 2004 and was reelected in 2010 and 2016. Roemer previously had served as an assistant district attorney for Juneau County and an assistant state public defender. He also worked in private practice and served as a lieutenant colonel for the U.S. Army Reserves.

The state Department of Justice said in the release that there is currently no threat to the public.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
A man is seen approaching a blue 2012 Jeep Patriot in an undated police handout photo. Police say a woman with dementia who was allegedly abducted while the Jeep was parked at a gas station has been found safe. (The Canadian Press/HO-Winnipeg Police Service)

Woman With Dementia, 63, Safe After Alleged Abduction, Winnipeg Police Say

A 63-year-old woman with dementia who was in a vehicle allegedly stolen while parked at a gas station was found safe nearly 10 hours after an unknown suspect jumped into the drivers seat and took off with her still in the back, Winnipeg Police said Saturday.

Police had issued a Silver Alert for the woman early Saturday morning, which Const. Jay Murray said allowed police to release the fact that she had dementiasomething he said could be important knowledge for anyone who found her.

Late Saturday morning, not long after police said an emergency alert was disseminated, a caller contacted 911 saying they believed they had seen the stolen 2012 Jeep Patriot in the citys Charleswood neighbourhood.

It turned out not to be the correct Jeep, but officers kept searching. About half an hour later, police say a patrol unit found the right vehicle abandoned in the Glendale neighbourhood with the woman alone and physically unharmed inside.

Police are still searching for a suspect.

At this point it appears to be a completely random incident and a crime of opportunity, Murray told reporters during a news conference police held prior to locating the woman.

Car theft, unfortunately, is relatively common here in Winnipeg, but vehicles being stolen with someone inside, thats unusual.

Murray said the woman was with a family member who was driving the Jeep when it stopped at a gas station on Portage Avenue shortly before 2 a.m. The family member went inside the gas station, and thats when the suspect approached the vehicle, got in the front passenger door and then moved over to the drivers seat.

Surveillance video released by police showed the family member returning to the vehicle and trying to open the drivers door as the suspect, who appeared to be wearing white gloves, nonchalantly waved and drove away.

The last report police had was that it headed westbound on Portage Ave. towards the Perimeter Highway.

Murray said it was unclear if the woman had been in the back seat of the Jeep or the rear cargo area. He said it was possible whoever took the vehicle wasnt aware she was there.

There was no known connection between the woman and the person who took the vehicle, Murray said.

The suspect has been described as a man around six feet tall with dark hair who had been seen wearing a grey jacket, dark shorts, a hoodie, sandals and white gloves.

The silver alert issued in the womans disappearance is a little-used tool police can deploy in cases where a vulnerable person or adult with a cognitive impairment goes missing and is believed to be in danger due to their condition. Other criteria spelled out under provincial law indicates the alert can be activated if police conclude releasing information to the public could lead to the persons safe return.
Brian A. Pounds / Hearst Connecticut Media

NORWALK  For the second time in two days, emergency crews rescued people from a sinking boat in the Long Island Sound, officials said.

The Norwalk Police Department Marine Unit pulled three people from the water after a canoe sank off the shore of Calf Pasture Beach, according to a post on the departments Twitter account.
The 2022 hurricane season will be above normal, according to forecasts from Colorado State Universitys Phil Klotzbach, the respected student of Bill Gray, who started long-range hurricane forecasts decades ago.

This should be headline news, right? Actually, within some pretty broad limits these types of seasonal forecasts are of only marginal utility. If I lived in a hurricane-prone region (I do), this wouldnt prompt me to do anything different than any prudent resident normally does in preparation for any season. Nor would the latest forecast from IBMs Weather.Com, which says pretty much the same thing, and the yet-unreleased version from the Department of Commerce change my routine.

These kinds of forecasts might also prompt the usual fearmongers to caterwaul about global warming jacking up hurricanes, but tropical meteorologist Ryan Maue has made a career by pointing out there is simply no relationship between the frequency and power of these storms and global warming. His Accumulated Cyclone Energy (ACE) index covers every storm detected since satellite coverage became global more than 50 years ago, and its correlation with mean surface temperature hovers near zero.

With regard to an individual storm hitting your house, these forecasts offer little information. There are an average of seven hurricanes each year in the North Atlantic, and most of these dont even hit the United States. The two current forecasts are for eight and nine hurricanes. Yes, everything else being equal (very dangerous words in science) this would mean the probability of being hit is up  but by an amount so small as to be statistically insignificant (and therefore operationally meaningless).

Theres another problem. Thanks to ever-improving satellite algorithms, we see increasing numbers of storms that would normally have been undetected, owing to small size, short lifetimes and distance from shipping lanes. These storms, called shorties by Chris Landsea, the head research scientist for the National Hurricane Center, show no detectable effect on Maues ACE index over time.

If you live in a region prone to disruptive weather like hurricanes, tornadoes or river floods, you should have a reliable generator wired into your house circuits by a professional electrician. Also, keep plenty of fuel around, either in the form of propane or no-ethanol gas, which lasts much longer. (Stores nationwide can be found online.) And you probably should run it for a few minutes every month or so, use a synthetic lubricant, and have one of those handy Halo chargers that revive dead batteries instantaneously.

Thats it. Thats my response to any gloom and doom seasonal hurricane forecast.

Also worth noting is that a forecast of low hurricane activity is also pretty useless from an individual viewpoint. There were only six tropical storms and hurricanes in 1915, near the historical low end. But two of them were whoppers, getting named as the 1915 Galveston and New Orleans hurricanes. The year before had only one storm, the least on record.

Nor will any of these forecasts have much federal influence. State and federal emergency planning agencies are fully aware that one monster in a weenie season causes a lot more problems than most weak storms in an active season.

Then theres simply bad hurricane luck. Although its rank is still debatable because of the lack of satellite coverage, 1933 was an impressive year, especially if you lived in northeastern Mexico along the Texas border. That region was hit by six storms at pretty much the same spot.

The bottom line is to simply be prepared. Whatever is forecast for the entire Atlantic basin has very little to do with your location and good (or bad) hurricane luck. Test the generator, make sure it is hooked up right, and rest easy.

Patrick J. Michaels is a senior fellow at the Competitive Enterprise Institute and the CO2 Coalition and has published in the peer-reviewed scientific literature on hurricanes. He wrote this for InsideSources.com.

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Sundays are special days in the calendar of most Nigerians. For Christians, it is a day of rejoicing and solemn worship. However, this Sunday was different as worshippers met their death as terrorists storm the St Francis Catholic Church, Owo, in Ondo state. The casualties include both children and adults.

Addressing newsmen, Gov. Akeredolu lamented the situation as very demeaning and brutish. He called on all security agencies to beef up security and apprehend perpetrators.

In addition, the Catholic Bishop of Ondo Diocese, Jude Arogunde condemned the attack as barbaric and wicked.

A survivor of the attack, Pascaline Nnakwo narrated her ordeal. She said the terrorists came in and spoke in a strange Hausa language. One of them held a bomb and guns and made regular threats to kill everyone.

On that note, several celebrities have expressed their shock and dismay over the ugly incident.

Veteran actor, Chief Pete Edochie expressed his displeasure over the incident,

"those of you preaching japa just remember some people abroad are family to those killed today in Ondo. Will they be able to sleep well tonight? Japa is definitely not the solution! still get your PVC as a first step,"he reiterated.

On his view, content creator Nasty Blaq writes, "No one deserves to be a victim of what happened today in Ondo state. Again, Nigeria failed us."

Liquorose added in her Tweet, "the killings in Owo, Ondo state is very sad. I sympathize with the family of those involved. I pray you heal from this pain. God help us all. "

Another content creator, Macaroni lamented the state of insecurity in the country especially in the Southern Nigeria.

"Children lying in a pool of their own Blood! All for what?? To what end?? This is not the Nigeria we want!"

Another internet user, Joyce added, " Read a confession some days ago from a converted Muslim. They've been preparing for this for a long time now. Literally, every month about 2000 men and weapons are transported to all the southern states. NIGERIA MUST DIVIDE, "she emphasized.

Supporting her claims, Chikezie opined, "with what l saw happen in Owo, Ondo State, I will not vote for a Fulani man with my eyes open.

Atiku who could not even condemn the senseless killing of Deborah wants to unify Nigeria. Southerners wake up!"

Share your opinions on way forward regards security measures. We will be glad to hear from you.
What do Nigerians from all walks of life; poor, rich, North, South, East, and West have to lose by conducting Nigerias civic and security affairs democratically?

Nigeria is still young enough to develop its own healthy leadership system, create an entrepreneurial environment, and provide an institutional framework to help restructure the economy.

What is wrong with providing mentally and physically fit, strong, and trained leaders that can envision the right course and appropriate attitude for the people to emulate?

What's wrong with Nigerians reconditioning themselves to stop loving thieves who vie for power, know the weaknesses of the people they want to rule, and ride freely with ethnic and religious marks, illegal or unethical gifts?

What is wrong with using proven democratic institutionalists that will build inclusive political and economic institutions to empower the civil servants to do that which is right?

What is wrong if Nigerians, for the first time, psychologically, spiritually, and physically disregard native old politicians like Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar who use the people to vote them into power, let their money fail them this time.

What is wrong with promoting a positive leadership that aims to bring in good governance, education, power supply, economic stability, and an end to insecurity as well as corruption, among others?

What is wrong with getting a national leadership that supports an environment where corruption does not manifest itself in the media and in journalistic practice, in order to advance transparency and accountability?

Given the inherent ethical challenges in the Nigerian leadership, the likes of Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo are certainly no angels, but what is clear is that, emotionally, Nigerians are tired of outdated politicians like Atiku and Tinubu with chronic experiences of attention seeking and self-serving.

Is it not time for Nigerians to employ institutionalists like El-Rufai and Osinbajo who direct progress and help the nation achieve the dreams of the founding fathers like Anthony Eromosele Enahoro in order for Nigerians to start believing in the future of their own country?

It is time for a leadership model that will not be indifferent to the Nigerian people with regard to stopping them from destroying their own country through their ongoing identification with bad leadership.

As a psychological scientist, I do not engage in religious prediction. But in the manner of a psychological institutional analyst with a focus on African matters, I predict, unless Nigeria is no longer in existence, that the next President will be Yemi Osinbajo, with Nasir El-Rufai and other progressive institutionalists in his administration.

As a leader in a growing and multifaceted society like Nigeria, Osinbajo has largely kept a low profile during the Buhari administration. To help understand this man who is a heartbeat away from the presidency, here are some things you should know about Osinbajo, his personal background, and his political psychology.

He is a reassuring pick for Nigerias Christian religious population and loved by the religious Islamic moderates in the North. admired by the masses.

Yemi Osinbajo is a Lagos born Nigerian of Yoruba ancestry. Intellectually, he is skilled in history and oratory. A law graduate with distinction from the University of Lagos. He is a graduate of the London School of Economics, where he obtained a Master of Laws degree. A Professor of Law, with a focus in public law at the University of Lagos. He is an expert on conduct and discipline through his work with the United Nations.

A senior pastor at the Redeemed Christian Church of God. He is married to the granddaughter of Obafemi Awolowo, and they have children.

As one who is interested in political philosophy, he helped in the formation of the All-Progressives Congress along with other Nigerians. Osinbajo, helped design and produce a strategy for the new political party: "Roadmap to a New Nigeria", a document published by APC as its manifesto if elected to power.

The focus of the document includes the need for free schools, addressing poverty and the needs of children and youth. He has been a Vice President since May 29, 2015, under President Muhammadu Buhari, and he has once served as an Acting President a few times while the President was receiving medical treatment in London.

Osinbajo is currently in his second term as president. He is known for his loyalty to the nation and the people. He is not a tribalist. He does not present as a weak or sick man. He is very young. In the North of Nigeria, he is seen as trustworthy, loyal, and honorable. But he is not a yes man. On a psychological note, based on commentaries, he presents himself as a Nigerian with good political ethics.

As a political figure, Osinbajo is firm in his uncompromising liberalism. Despite perceived religious and personality differences with his boss, Osinbajo has shown steadfast loyalty to Buhari. Osinbajo has gained fair criticism from all partisan groups because of his progressive national attitude.

Osinbajo appears to be a person who is easy to make personal friends with across political parties. At no time has Osinbajo, especially before the current political primaries, shown any open eye regarding his political future as he tries to do his present work.

Along with this psycho-political map of Osinbajo are some comments on Nasir El-Rufai.

El-Rufai is a Kaduna born Muslim with a modest background. As a child, he lost his father, and fortunately for him, he had an uncle who sponsored his early schooling. He is in an expanded marriage with children.

El-Rufai received a bachelor's degree in quantity surveying with first class honors from Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria. It is important to know that while in Barewa College, the house captain of his dormitory was President Umaru Yar'Adua, a known non-tribalist and a man of goodwill, simplicity, and humility, who died at the age of 58 from health complications.

El-Rufai holds an MBA from Ahmadu Bello University, as well as professional and post-graduate training from institutions such as Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service in Washington.

He has as his area of focus advanced studies in privatization and leadership. A law graduate from the University of London; and has a master's degree in public administration from the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. He received the Kennedy School Certificate in Public Policy and Management, having worked as an Edward A. Mason Fellow in Public Policy and Management.

He has extensive experience in quantity surveying consulting and has served in management positions with international telecommunications companies. A man whose political career started as an economic advisor to the military head of state, General Abdulsalami Abubakar. He has worked with the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund. Under President Olusegun Obasanjo, he served as director of the Bureau of Public Enterprises, and secretary of the National Council of Privatization.

As a Minister of the Federal Capital Territory during his tenure, he officiated over a sweeping transformation of the federal capital, earlier damaged by corruption.

El-Rufai, along with others, led the reform of the Nigerian public service and, at various times during his tenure as Minister, he oversaw the Federal Ministries of Commerce and Interior. He also chaired several high-profile cabinet committees that led to the establishment of a mortgage system in Nigeria and the National ID card system for Nigeria.

He once went into self-imposed exile and became a vocal critic of the Umaru Yar'Adua administration. He boldly returned to Nigeria in 2010 and was arrested for corruption charges by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). He was cleared of corruption charges. In 2011, he joined party politics with the Congress for Progressive Change, supporting Muhammadu Buharis campaign. He served as a deputy national secretary of the newly formed All Progressives Congress. In 2015, El-Rufai was sworn in as the Governor of Kaduna State, and he is currently in his second term.

He has had serious criticism in many areas, such as not reportedly obeying court orders and being known to be hard on human rights issues, journalists, and protesters, but I see him as one who is open to public counseling, especially as a progressive political figure.

In a dogged society like Nigeria, El-Rufai, who is sometimes too stubborn and stern all of which are admirable leadership characteristics will tie well with Yemi, a much more level-headed man.

Psychologically, Nigeria in the last 20 years has been crying out to get some degree of sustained economic, education, welfare, health, security, and peace for the people. Osinbajo and El-Rufai seem to believe that one way to strengthen Nigerias peace and security is the establishment of a state police. which should also include decentralization in the judiciary, corrections, and many other critical systems.

Osinbajo and El-Rufai have been fully trained in civilian leadership styles, which are much needed in a diverse environment like Nigeria. They understand each others backgrounds in terms of progressive leadership. Their leadership styles will help in navigating diversity. They know it is crucial that Nigerians understand their mission and give them affirmation. Only then can they better contribute to Nigeria and help improve the quality of the people and systems. This is my hope and fantasy, psychologically.

In a progressive Nigeria where, democratic institutions are valued and practiced, the likes of Osinbajo, El-Rufai, and other progressives like Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum of Bornu State, Aminu Bello Masari of Katsina State; Nasir El-Rufai, Kaduna; Muhammad Yahaya, Gombe; and Bello Matawalle, Zamfara State; Simon Lalong of Plateau State; Umar Ganduje of Kano; Abubakar Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi State; Kingsley Moghalu; Peter Obi; Chukwuma Soludo; Oluwarotimi Akeredolu; Omoyele Sowore; Oby Ezekwesili; Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi; Nyesom Ezenwo Wike.

Gov. El-Rufai in 2021 calls for a true institutional, federal, and democratic setting. Nigeria needs progressives to lay out a blueprint for a national strategy and an incoming administration can realign Nigeria institutionally.

El-Rufai's ten (10) responsibilities for the Nigerian state and federal governments are

"This includes decentralizing the police to enable the states to exercise effective control in securing their residents and communities.

We need to have federal, state, and community police, with each granted sufficient powers to make them effective in securing the areas assigned to them and cooperating closely with each other. Those expressing concerns about the ability of the states to bear the cost of policing should realize that apart from the payment of salaries by the federal government, most of the operational and capital costs of the Nigeria Police are borne by state and local governments," El-Rufai said.

He said that fear of abuse of state police by sub-national governments is misplaced because a constitutional or statutory framework could be enacted to ensure federal intervention in cases of such abuses.

El-Rufai also said that the constitution should be altered to remove the Police Service Commission because "it is an unnecessary hindrance to effective policing in the country."

The power to hire and fire police officers should revert fully and totally to the Inspector General of Police, under the supervision of the National Police Council, as envisaged by the Constitution."

"All mineral resources, including oil and gas and solid minerals, in the states, which will in turn pay royalties and taxes to the Federation Account.

States already control land within their territories, courtesy of the Land Use Act, which is incorporated into the Constitution by reference.

He said that the dichotomy and total disconnect between federal institutions issuing licenses for mining and state agencies that ultimately control land and title were impeding the takeoff of mining in the country.

He said States should be empowered to establish, staff, and run their own judiciary up to the appellate level.

It is an anomaly to have a National Judicial Council appointing high court judges for states." This should be the responsibility of state judicial councils.

The remit of the National Judicial Council should be limited to the federal high and appellate courts. The constitutional amendment should clarify that the states can establish courts to exercise jurisdiction in the first instance, or on appeal, on matters for which the states can make laws.

 In essence, I am suggesting that judges of State High Courts, Sharia Courts of Appeal, and Customary Courts of Appeal should be nominated by the State Judicial Council, subject to confirmation by the House of Assembly, he said.

El-Rufai further advocated for states to establish state courts of appeal. Prisons and corrections services should be entirely state-owned and managed.

The State Court of Appeal will entertain appeals from State High Courts, Customary and Sharia Courts of Appeal, on matters on which the State House of Assembly is empowered by the Constitution to make laws.

This arrangement will make our judicial processes faster, encourage competition, deepen our jurisprudence, and restore citizens trust."

"It will also significantly reduce the burden on the Federal Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

El-Rufai said each state should decide the model of democratic local government that best suits it because Nigeria is a federation of the 36 states and the Federal Government.

Listing the 774 local governments in the Constitution and trying to establish for them direct relations with the Federal Government violates the spirit of federalism."

Each state should decide how many local governments it can efficiently run and fund for better governance and delivery of public goods."

Each state should decide what typology of local governance fits its historical, cultural, and administrative circumstances, but the resulting framework must be democratic, with periodic elections at no longer than four-year intervals, he said.

El-Rufai also said that adopting this proposal means that the revenue allocation formula will specify what proportion of federation transfers is for the local governments."

No state government shall be allowed under any guise to take control of local government funds, and the Constitution should entrench safeguards and sanctions, including withholding state funds due from the Federation Account in the event of any reported diversions, impoundment, or misappropriation, he said.

For instance, why should the Federal Government be enabled by the Constitution to fix a national minimum wage that it can afford but most of the states have been unable to implement.

A minimum wage is certainly desirable to protect citizens from exploitation, but it should be on the Concurrent List due to variations in cost of living and ability to pay."

I would add that states should legally establish an independent and impartial election body, a body charged with overseeing the implementation of the direct electioneering process of the state, which must be independent from the federal election commission.

In his continued advocacy for a democratic nation with healthy institutions, Prof. Mike Ozekhome once stated, "Our Democracy Has Not Progressed At All." With El-Rufai and other noted institutionalists, a progressive approach toward democracy in Nigeria could become a reality.

Ah! tearfully, we don tiya, we are tired. It's Time for a Positive Change. A piece on mutual respect between the ruled and ruled in Nigeria. Nigeria is going through a test of democracy, which is necessary for meaningful change in our institutions. Nigeria is undergoing a test of leadership. Whether we can deliver at a moment of national anxiety is the question, but with the current challenging political climate, I believe we are closer than ever to getting there. Let's see if we can land it.

John Egbeazien Oshodi, who was born in Uromi, Edo State in Nigeria, is an American based Police/Prison Scientist and Forensic/Clinical/Legal Psychologist. A government consultant on matters of forensic-clinical adult/child psychological services in the USA; Chief Educator and Clinician at the Transatlantic Enrichment and Refresher Institute, an Online Lifelong Center for Personal, Professional, and Career Development. He is a former Interim Associate Dean/Assistant Professor at Broward College, Florida. The Founder of the Dr. John Egbeazien Oshodi Foundation, Center for Psychological Health and Behavioral Change in African Settings. In 2011, he introduced State-of-the-Art Forensic Psychology into Nigeria through N.U.C and Nasarawa State University, where he served in the Department of Psychology as an Associate Professor. Currently, a Virtual Behavioral Leadership Professor at ISCOM University, Republic of Benin. Founder of the proposed Transatlantic Egbeazien Open University (TEU) of Values and Ethics, a digital project of Truth, Ethics, and Openness. Over forty academic publications and creations, at least 200 public opinion pieces on African issues, and various books have been written by him. He specializes in psycho-prescriptive writings regarding African institutional and governance issues.

Prof. Oshodi wrote in via [email protected]
59 Rohingya dumped on island off Satun

BANGKOK: Police are trying to find out who abandoned 59 Rohingya boat people, including five children, on an island off mainland Satun - and told them they were in Malaysia.



By Bangkok Post

Sunday 5 June 2022, 05:59PM

Assistant national police chief Pol Lt Gen Surachate Hakparn has been assigned to travel to the southern province to help investigators shed light on the case, reports the Bangkok Post.

Deputy police chief Roy Inkhapairoj, who gave Lt Gen Surachate the travel order, said police had no clue about who transported them into Thai waters.

They could be the victims of human traffickers, said Gen Roy, director of the Child Protection and Anti-Human Trafficking Centre.

A Royal Thai Navy coast guard boat found the 59 Rohingya  31 men, 23 women and five children  on Koh Dong, about 20 kilometres from Koh Lipe, on Saturday (June 4) after a tip-off.

Satun Governor Ekkarath Leesen said on Saturday preliminary questioning indicated they had travelled by boat from Bangladesh and were headed for Malaysia.

The boat dropped them on the island about a week ago and then sailed away, he said, adding that the Rohingya will be sent back to Bangladesh.

Navy spokesman Vice Admiral Pokkrong Monthatphalin explained on Sunday they had left Bangladesh on a trawler and the skipper ordered them to alight on the island after telling them that Koh Dong was in Malaysian territory.

V/Adm Pokkrong said all were transported by the Tor 996 patrol boat to mainland Satun and were charged with illegal entry into Thailand at Langu police station in Langu district. They were later detained at the 436th Company of the Border Patrol Police in Muang district, he added.

He said the navy would step up patrols on the Andaman Sea and islands near the border with Malaysia as Thailand expected more boat people sailing to the neighbouring country.
Phuket Opinion: Bungling expectations

PHUKET: The palaver this week over face masks still being required in Phuket while in public areas exposed a wide range of bungling from key stakeholders, very few of whom would like to put their hand up and take responsibility.

opiniontourismhealthCOVID-19

By The Phuket News

Sunday 5 June 2022, 10:00AM

Tourists on Bangla Rd earlier this week, with no expectation of being forced to wear a face mask. Photo: PR Phuket

While many people would like to blame local officials for the whole mess, that is not entirely true.

When the order was issued, Thai news media outlets jumped on the news, claiming in very clear language that the face mask rule had been dropped. What ensued was a natural consequence of modern-day copy-and-paste journalism, leading to major news outlets erroneously reporting the same thing.

The Phuket News did not have that understanding (see original story by The Phuket News on Wednesday here). The original order did not say that the face mask rule had been dropped. However, it also did not clearly say that the rule remained in effect in general areas. The wording left a gap that allowed for the misunderstanding.

By Thursday, Phuket Governor Narong Woonciew issued a revision to the newly issued face mask order. He did not reverse any decision, despite what news outlets later reported. He did not step his bounds by issuing an order not sanctioned by Bangkok, and was not consequently slapped.

The revision only clarified what the original order already explained, describing the same rule in clearer language. (See original order posted in Thai here. See revision posted in Thai here.)

What did not help was the national office of state news agency NNT reporting that the Governor had reversed his decision  something that their local counterparts in the same organisation never reported. Having a state news agency report something that an official never did simply because of the number of other reports by media outlets saying that he did, is simply astounding.

What the Governor, and other local officials, did bungle is how clear information explained in simple terms is essential. This they have failed to learn from the height of the pandemic when new rules were being rolled out every week, and confusion ensued week after week.

What local officials have also failed to learn is how much English-speaking people around the world rely on non-government media to confirm and explain any new rules, as information announced in Thai is so often so confusing that hardly any outsider can make solid sense of it.

The CCSA in Bangkok knows this so well that throughout the pandemic they rightly had their regular reports presented by fluent English-speaking officials. If the information being announced was vague, then at least non-Thai speakers would know that.

Phuket, as a province looking to regain its place as the second-largest contributor to the national economy through tourism, must have clear information relayed in English, as that is the common language used between speakers whose native languages are different.

The Phuket News has for years called for important official announcements affecting foreigners to be made in English  by a fluent English speaker. What we saw this week is what happens when they arent.

What local officials also saw this week was the reaction to the news by foreigners. Everyone was expecting the face mask rule to be dropped, just as it has been in many countries around the world where they understand that the main danger of COVID-19 has passed. That didnt happen. The angry reaction online was the result.

Foreign tourists are waiting for Thailand to catch up and finally ease its COVID restrictions to the point where they will be comfortable visiting here. They do not want to travel to a place where they are still living in the COVID world. That is what they want a holiday from.

Just as with the pointless Thailand Pass registration still required, which officials themselves now say are approved automatically, any extra bother a tourist needs to deal with to holiday here is just another psychological barrier and a reason to say, No.

Thailand needs to remove as many barriers to the decision-making process as possible, especially the rules that no longer make sense.

Perhaps someone should tell this to Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha when he visits Phuket tomorrow (June 6).
Prayut set to visit Phuket

PHUKET: Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha is scheduled to visit Phuket tomorrow (June 6) as part of plans to monitor the implementation of education and tourism policies on the island.

tourism

By The Phuket News

Sunday 5 June 2022, 11:30AM

Photo: NNT

Prayut is set to visit Phuttamongkolnimit School on Yaowarat Road, Talat Yai Subdistrict around 1:30pm to assess development work at the school.

Putthamongkolnimit School is a Buddhist school open to students from Kindergarten to Grade 3 that provides education for underprivileged students who lack funds by not charging any tuition fees with a specific focus on enhancing students knowledge, morality, ethics, sense of responsibility and discipline.

While at the school, Prayut will also preside over the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cooperation in the development of sustainable education in partnership with educational agencies, businesses in the private sector and local leaders.

The Prime Minister will then head to The Beyond Hotel in Kata to preside over the opening ceremony of the Thailand Tourism Congress 2022. At around 2:45pm he will deliver a keynote speech entitled Strategies to upgrade Thai tourism to sustainable quality tourism.

The Thailand Tourism Congress 2022 aims to serve as a platform for exchanging ideas and knowledge in the development of tourism and how to establish Thailand as a global leading tourist destination.

With representatives from public and private sectors, it will create a networking opportunity to explore ways to create competitive advantages while continually building the sustainability of the Thai tourism industry. It will also have a sharp focus on how the tourism industry can respond and adapt to global events that affect it, such as the recent COVID-19 pandemic.

The Congress will also explore and promote Thailands role as an international Medical Hub and Medical Tourism Destination following the government recently reopening the coutry fully to tourists following COVID-19-induced closures and restrictions of the past two years.

Prayut is scheduled to fly back to Bangkok later tomorrow evening.
Zongzi, glutinous rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo or reeds, are the sweetest taste in the memory of Zhang Tong, who has been away from home for 11 years.

The 26-year-old graphic designer now works in Taiyuan, northern China's Shanxi Province, more than 200 kilometers from her hometown at the foot of a hill in Qingtang Village, Shanxi's Linxian County.

Zongzi are traditional delicacies that Chinese people eat on the day of the Dragon Boat Festival, which fell on Friday this year. Zongzi commemorate the death of the famous Chinese poet Qu Yuan during the Warring States Period (475-221 B.C.).

Before every Dragon Boat Festival, Zhang would receive Zongzi from her mother. The taste brings back her memories of home and ignites a sense of nostalgia.

"An old saying goes, 'Nothing tastes better than rock candy, and nowhere is better to live than Qingtang,'" Zhang said, referring to her hometown. "With abundant water resources, the village is not only suitable for living but for making Zongzi as well."

Half of Qingtang's 900 mu (60 hectares) of farmland grows reeds  the best raw material for Zongzi. The dry climate also makes it an ideal land for one Zongzi filling: high-grade millet.

Early in the morning, Zhang Tong's father Zhang Qinghai and his wife Wang Chunlan pick fresh reeds and start their busy day.

"Boiling the reeds on a low heat for about one hour makes them soft but resilient with a special fragrance," said Wang, a master at making the sticky rice dumplings.

Fermentation is a unique process of Qingtang Zongzi. Zhang Qinghai has buckets of millet soaked in water and coated with white fungus. Fermentation takes about two weeks  the secret for softer and silkier Zongzi.

The traditional way to make Qingtang Zongzi is wrapping three reeds in a funnel shape and adding about 100 grams of millet. The leaves are then tied with thin lotus leaves before being simmered for five hours.

However, the delicate rice dish did not always bring fortune to villagers in the past. "Local residents only made Zongzi for the festival and sold reeds for the rest of the year," Zhang Qinghai said.

"Ten years ago, 1 kilogram of reeds could be sold for at most 4 yuan (about 60 US cents)," said Zhang Xinwen, former Party secretary of Qingtang Village. "If it were not for the great support and favorable policies of the government, we could still be mired in poverty."

The Zongzi industry in Qingtang was planned out in 2012, but took off in 2014 thanks to China's anti-poverty campaign. The local government started to fund roads and factories, and the small Zongzi gradually developed into a big industry.

In 2018, Qiantang Village was lifted out of poverty. In February this year, a Zongzi industrial zone with an annual output value of 100 million yuan was put into operation near the village, creating more than 200 jobs.

"The annual per capita income in the village was only about 2,000 yuan in 2012, but that number is expected to surpass 20,000 this year," Zhang Xinwen said.

Zhang Qinghai and his wife's annual income from making Zongzi has risen from about 70,000 yuan to nearly 150,000 yuan in just three years.

Their daughter Zhang Tong married last year and settled down in the city. "Every time I go back to the village, seeing the green reeds and smelling the aroma of Zongzi, I know immediately that I'm home," she said.
CAYLA BEVERLY, Stonington, Softball, Senior; Beverly was named the MVP of the ECC Division II tournament. Beverly pitched a four-hitter with 10 strikeouts as the Bears shut out St. Bernard for the title.

MADDIE PERKINS, Wheeler, Softball, Senior; Perkins was 4 for 5 with a double, a triple and five RBIs in a win over Putnam. Perkins is hitting .535 for the season with nine doubles and 31 RBIs.

JAKE SERRA, Westerly, Track, Senior; Serra established a school record in the 800 meters at the Bishop Hendricken Invitational. Serra turned in a time of 1:56.02, good for fifth place. Andrew Springer held the previous record of 1:56.26.

ELI SPOSATO, Chariho, Boys Track, Sophomore; Sposato broke the school record in the 400 meters at the Bishop Hendricken Invitational Sposato finished second in 50.79. Joe DiPalma set the previous record of 50.83 in 2013.

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Westerly, RI (02891)

Today

Rain showers this morning with some sunshine during the afternoon hours. High 74F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 100%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies this evening. Thunderstorms likely late. Low 62F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%.
A jogger runs in an ecological park in Yongchuan District of southwest China's Chongqing, May 6, 2022. /Xinhua





Half a century ago, in 1972, the first UN Conference on the Human Environment decided to designate June 5 as World Environment Day. Since then, this day has been considered as a principal vehicle for raising awareness on environmental concerns.

Literally, it is quite impossible to address environmental issues especially climate change without cooperation from global leaders such as China, U.S., EU etc. Marking the upcoming World Environment Day, it is high time to consider the efforts put forward by China for environment protection while embracing rapid economic development as well.

The Paris Agreement, a legally binding international treaty on climate change, was adopted on December 12, 2015 to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius. In order to give a push to the collective fight against climate change, China inked the Paris Agreement on the first day of its opening for signature, on April 22, 2016. By ratifying the Agreement, China officially confirmed its commitment towards tackling climate change. China's position as the world's largest investor in renewable energy is one of the many instances that shows its genuine intention towards implementing the terms of the Paris Agreement.

To promote international consensus, cooperation, and realize green development, China has established the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) International Green Development Coalition. Undoubtedly, this will reduce the adverse environmental impact in BRI participating countries. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) dubbed this coalition as an open, inclusive, and voluntary international network that brings together the environmental expertise of all partners to ensure that the BRI brings sustainable development.

China has reaffirmed its climate goals in Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) submitted to the UN Climate Change Conference where Beijing pledged to peak its carbon dioxide emissions before 2030 and aimed to achieve carbon neutrality before 2060. The interval between both goals is 30 years for China but was 43 years for the U.S. and 71 years for the EU.

So, China is going to face tremendous challenges as it has to achieve the goal of carbon neutrality in the shortest time of global history. And, to materialize this "dual carbon goals," China has adopted a whole-society approach along with some long-term pragmatic targets.

According to the NDC, Beijing wants to lower carbon dioxide emissions per unit of GDP by over 65 percent from the 2005 level. Moreover, China declared to proliferate its wind and solar power generating capacity to at least 1,200 gigawatts by 2030. Such declarations are the clear proof of the country's strong will to strengthen global efforts to address climate change.

To support the "green transformation" and strengthen its role in preventing pollution, China launched the National Green Development Fund (NGDF) in 2020, the country's first dedicated environmental fund with approximately $14 billion. This fund will mainly be used to invest in national strategic programs and to improve the economic policy system for environment and ecological protection.

Chinese President Xi Jinping announced, at the 76th session of the UN General Assembly, that "China will step up support for other developing countries in developing green and low-carbon energy, and will not build new coal-fired power projects abroad." Phasing out coal investments would be promising to reduce carbon emissions, which pose a serious threat to the Sustainable Development Goal 13. This praiseworthy initiative by the Chinese President has been perceived as an effort to improve global environmental governance and an active response to the climate crisis.

Recently, China announced plans to plant and conserve 70 billion trees by 2030 in response to 1t.org, an initiative of the World Economic Forum to support the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration 2021-2030. Beijing's active response to 1t.org demonstrates not only its capacity but also strong commitment to safeguard the post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework. Apart from helping the global community to combat climate change and deforestation, such initiative will also motivate other developed economies to follow the same path.

China has been a global pioneer in fighting the climate crisis by ensuring low carbon emission, relying on high-speed railway network with full intellectual property rights and high-speed magnetic levitation (maglev) train system supported by homegrown technologies.

Besides, China leads the world in the number of nuclear power plants and hydropower generators being constructed with particular focus on reforming the energy sector to cleaner and recyclable energy variants. Moreover, China launched a landmark emissions trading market, a powerful tool to drive down climate change to restrict carbon dioxide emissions.

Considering the transaction volume, the market is now the world's largest carbon trading market. China had established the national carbon market in 2021 for setting emission caps for major electricity companies, allowing these firms to buy the right for emissions from others with a lower carbon footprint.

China, the world's second-largest economy, has long been firmly promoting global cooperation on tackling climate challenges. It is the first major developing country that has stated its clear vision of achieving carbon neutrality by 2060. Undoubtedly, such a bold move will bolster confidence in global environment protection efforts.

Thus, Beijing has been putting in strenuous efforts in meeting the goals of the Paris Agreement and is contributing to the construction of a global ecological civilization. The aforementioned analysis testifies how China has demonstrated its capabilities, commitments, and intention in mounting global efforts to fight worsening climate catastrophe.
As the new chief executive of Nationwide, Britain's biggest building society, Debbie Crosbie arrives at a time when mutual values are sorely needed.

There is a cost-of-living crisis and ministers are desperate to see the levelling up of poorer areas. This plays into the ethos of a mutual movement based on Victorian values of self-help and community solidarity.

Institutions owned by their members, and run purely for their benefit, are in tune with these post-Covid times. But mutual principles are also under threat, as we have seen with the attempt by the LV management to sell out to US private equity barons.

Great expectations: Nationwide customers hope new boss Debbie Crosbie will be the standard bearer for a mutual renaissance

Nationwide is the biggest beast in a sector that has over three decades become badly depleted. It is the last great name left standing among the building societies, the sole major survivor of the demutualisation craze of the 1980s and 1990s when Halifax, Abbey National, Alliance & Leicester and Northern Rock floated on the stock market. The ostensible reason was that, as listed companies, these lenders had access to wider capital and could turbo-charge growth. A less palatable motive was the fat share incentives for executives.

Shedding their mutual status ended badly all round. Abbey ran into trouble with toxic loans and was taken over by Santander. The financial crisis wiped out the rest.

Mutuality in itself is no magic shield, as the basket-case Co-op Bank, now owned by hedge funds, amply proved. But the remaining mutuals, first among them Nationwide, have a responsibility to their members and society as a whole to act as a counterweight to their profit-gouging rivals.

The big four banks are gagging to get rid of free-in-credit current accounts, which were pioneered by Nationwide in the late 1980s but are stubbornly unprofitable. It will be harder for them to slap on charges, so long as Nationwide holds the line.

Debbie Crosbie must also stick with the society's stance against the banks' destructive campaign of branch closures.

At TSB, she shut hundreds of outlets, which has led to fears she may do the same in her new billet. In her previous job, however, she was accountable to the Spanish owner, Sabadell. At Nationwide, she answers to her members  and they want their branches kept open.

In moving away from personal contact, the big listed banks risk becoming inhumane. I was shocked recently when one senior executive described people who ring up as 'abusing our telephone service'. What a way to speak about his customers.

The disgraceful behaviour of the mainstream banks is an opening for mutuals to prove there is another way.

The LV debacle has shown that the mutual model is prone to exploitation. But the positive side is that LV has awakened the sleeping giant of member power.

If members value mutuality, they should not wait for the barbarians to arrive but demand that boards draw up a defence strategy to safeguard their interests.

Post-LV, any mutual should be looking for ways to enshrine water-tight protection for members into their constitutions.

Mutuals should also explore innovative ways of raising capital that do not compromise members' interests. And more could be done to encourage start-ups of new mutuals and co-ops at a local level, to revitalise the movement from the ground up.
Another FTSE 100 firm is facing investor outrage over fat cat pay at its AGM.

Coca-Cola Hellenic, one of the world's largest drinks bottlers, is bracing for a revolt against its pay policy this month.

Investor advisory firm Glass Lewis is encouraging shareholders to vote against the pay report, citing concern about a decision to make it easier for boss Zoran Bogdanovic to receive share awards.

Outrage: Coca-Cola Hellenic is one of the world's largest drinks bottlers

Glass Lewis said the target changes had been 'rare among the company's peers' and that previous changes to the awards had been 'a major driver for a high level of investor dissent' last year.

Bogdanovic was paid 4.2m last year, up from 2.9m in 2020.

The company's share price is down by a third this year amid the war in Ukraine.

Several major companies  including GlaxoSmithKline and Ocado  have faced similar backlashes over fat cat pay.
Business leaders are urging Rishi Sunak to step in with a support package to help firms survive the cost-of-living crisis.

Their calls come as the Chancellor today faces a grilling from Parliament's Treasury committee over his efforts to help with surging prices.

Last month Sunak announced a 15billion scheme to cut domestic energy bills.

Under pressure: Chancellor Rishi Sunak faces a grilling from Parliament's Treasury committee over his efforts to help with surging prices

While this was welcomed by families, businesses have been left out in the cold.

Up-coming data from Make UK, which represents Britain's manufacturing industry, will show that more than two thirds of companies claim rising energy costs are causing 'catastrophic' or 'major' disruption to their business.

Verity Davidge, director of policy at Make UK, said: 'Companies are facing eye-watering increases in costs which are becoming a matter of survival.'

Ministers must do 'whatever it takes' to support businesses and protect jobs, she added.

'The alternative is to leave many facing a tipping point from which some will not recover,' Davidge said.

Rising costs have been particularly painful for energy-intensive businesses such as manufacturers and travel firms. Bills are eating up a disproportionate amount of income at everything from restaurants and shops to plumbing and delivery firms.

Martin McTague, of the Federation of Small Businesses, said: 'The cost-of-living crisis starts with a cost-of-doing-business crisis. We need targeted interventions from Government to reduce the need for firms to pass on surging input prices.' He suggested that struggling businesses should get a discount on their business rates payment.

He said cutting VAT  including the 20 per cent on energy  would also be helpful.

The Chancellor's refusal to back down on tax hikes has angered bosses. McTague said: 'We really need to see the Chancellor take action to ease the tax burden.'

Kitty Ussher, of the Institute of Directors, said some costs 'are due to the deliberate action of Government and can therefore be changed'.

Meanwhile, Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng is 'actively considering' a support package for steelmakers and other energy-intensive industries. Kwarteng could exempt heavy industrial energy users from charges to use the electricity network.
With a new year comes a new bright-eyed freshman class, ready to begin new journeys. But what is changing about the incoming class of 2021? How are student admissions different from the year I was accepted? Here are a few key trends.

UCLA and UC Berkeley are becoming increasingly selective, but this year, UCLA takes the cake for the least proportion of students admitted at 16.1 percent.

Although UCLA is more selective than UC Berkeley for the Class of 2021, both campuses are getting harder to be admitted into. The number of applicants are increasing and the selection process is becoming more competitive, especially for in-state students: 84 percent of admitted Californians for UCLAs class of 2021 will have graduated in the top 9 percent of their class.

The total admit rate for my class  the class of 2020  was 18 percent. This made UCLA the second-most selective UC campus behind UC Berkeley, which had a total admit rate of 17.5 percent in 2016.

[Related: UCLA reaches record-low admission rate for 2015-2016 academic year]

It is becoming harder for in-state students to gain admission over out-of-state students for the Class of 2021.

The admit rate for out-of-state students has been steady, hovering around 22 to 23 percent. However, the admit rate for in-state students has fluctuated: In 2016, the in-state admit rate was 17.7 percent, but dropped to 14.6 percent in 2017. Admit rates for international students have followed a similar trend, dropping to 13.1 percent in 2017 from 14.3 percent in 2016. This means that out-of-state students were slightly more likely to get into UCLA than in-state students for the class of 2021.

This year, the University of California Board of Regents approved the UCs first limit on out-of-state and international student enrollment, capping it at 18 percent. UCLA exceeded this amount for the 2017-2018 school year, but the school is not allowed to increase the percentage of nonresident students who make up 16.5 percent of the UC systems 210,170 undergraduates.

Campuses want nonresident students because they diversify the student population and ring in more tuition money, but many Californians argue that admitting more nonresident students puts in-state students at a disadvantage.

[Related: Nonresidents more likely to be admitted to UCLA than in-state students]

While there is an obvious difference between in-state and out-of-state admission, there are even deeper, more subtle geographical discrepancies between the in-state Californians admitted for the 2017-2018 school year.

UCLA students are more likely to hail from certain regions of California than other regions .

For in-state freshmen California admits for the class of 2021, 30 percent were admitted from the Southern California region, 27 percent from a different Los Angeles region, 25 percent from the San Francisco Bay Area, 7 percent from the Central Valley, 6 percent from Northern California and 5 percent from the Central Coast.

The students of the Class of 2021 are some of the brightest in the face of increasingly difficult competition. UCLA beat out UC Berkeley for the most selective campus for the 2017-2018 school year, so the students admitted were from the tops of their classes. UC schools are becoming more competitive, and UCLA prospects definitely feel that pressure as the in-state acceptance rate has sunk to 14.6 percent in 2017 from 17.7 percent in 2016. Among the in-state students admitted, most are likely to come from the Southern California, Los Angeles, and San Francisco Bay Area regions.
Kingsport, TN (37660)

Today

Variable clouds with scattered thunderstorms. Potential for severe thunderstorms. High 82F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms. Low 67F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%.
The International Storytelling Center is open 10 a.m.  5 p.m., Monday through Saturday. For more information about Storytelling Live!, including the full schedule, or to purchase tickets and season passes, visit www.storytellingcenter.net or call (800) 952-8392.
COXSACKIE  In development, sometimes it pays to beg forgiveness later rather than ask permission first.

Local developer Aaron Flach is seeking numerous permissions from the village of Coxsackie after building a boutique hotel and events center with significant differences from what was approved by the village's Planning Board.

The complex housing the James Newbury Hotel and The Wire Event Center, located on Coxsackie's struggling riverfront, was slapped with a stop-work order in late March, weeks before its completion, after alleged violations were discovered. The most glaring: The hotel featured an additional floor.

Now various boards in the village must either retroactively grant Flach the permissions  or be faced with the problem of having an inoperable structure smack-dab in the middle of a commercial center.

The problems

The Newbury Hotel was not supposed to be this large.

Plans submitted by the developer to the village Planning Board in March 2019 state the hotel would begin with an existing one-story building at the site.

"The existing roof will be removed and three stories will be added above the first floor," according to the plans, which also say the structure will be 45 feet tall. The hotel's footprint was supposed to be the same size as that of the existing building: 6,280 square feet.

Instead, the developer decided to demolish the existing building and replace it with a structure with a far larger footprint  8,460 square feet, according to new site plans submitted to the Planning Board after the March stop-work order. Instead of a four-story structure, the developer built a five-story structure with a height of 64 feet  nearly 20 feet taller than what had been approved, and 14 feet taller than what is permitted under the village's zoning rules.

Differences between what was approved in March 2019 and what was actually built don't end there. An unapproved kitchen addition and exterior deck were added to The Wire Event Center, and an unapproved second-story walkway was added to the Newbury, among other unapproved additions.

Based on the claims the developer made to the Planning Board in March 2019, the board determined the project was an "unlisted action" under state law, and Flach was able to avoid a thorough environmental review, which can cost tens of thousands of dollars and take months or even years to complete.

Information supplied by the developer for the project's building permit also proved to be inaccurate. The permit, which has been reviewed by the Times Union, states the construction costs for the hotel and event center would be $2 million. The actual cost, according to the new site plan, is $11 million. Coxsackie requires developers to pay a fee equal to one-half of 1 percent of the project's cost, meaning the developer should have paid the village about $55,000. The village received $10,000.

What went wrong

During a May 26 public forum held by the village to address concerns over the Newbury, Village Engineer Mary Beth Bianconi confirmed the developer owed the village money due to the inaccuracy in the building permit, though she said the village was still trying to calculate exactly how much.

When asked in a Friday interview about submitting the $2 million figure, Flach said his company had accidentally not submitted the full cost of the project, stating only the cost of construction it was doing and not construction it had contracted out.

The cost of construction was about $10 million, according to Flach.

Coxsackie Mayor Mark Evans also spoke during the forum, saying the hotel and events center required eight separate zoning variances for it to fall within code.

Before opening up the forum, Evans said the village would try to answer as many questions as possible, but "some we may not be able to due to potential legal action."

Bianconi said at the forum the building inspector had undertaken inspections of the project "in conformance with the plans that were before him."

"At some point in the process," Bianconi said, "it was determined there was a disconnect between what was being constructed and the building plans that were before the (building inspector) and the approvals that were previously approved by the planning board."

Tax breaks

At least one organization was aware of the differences between the construction plans and actual construction long before the stop-work order.

The Greene County Industrial Development Agency (GIDA), the entity in charge of giving tax breaks to developers, granted The Newbury Hotel about $951,000 in property tax breaks, as well as exempting sales taxes for the hotel's construction, according to IDA documents.

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The GIDA meets monthly, and in March 2021  a year before the stop-work order  members were made aware of the changes in construction.

"This project is now in full swing," according to the GIDA meeting minutes. "Changes had to be made when the building that is to become the hotel was determined to be in worse condition than thought and had to be torn down."

When GIDA Executive Director April Ernst was asked if this had been the first time the agency became aware the project was diverging from the approved plans, she responded that the previous executive director was merely updating the GIDA, which "is not involved in oversight on construction or plan approval."

The developer and the agency were familiar with one another: Flach has been GIDA's landlord since 2006, according to Ernst  first in one building and then again when Flach sold that building in 2020; the agency then moved into another Flach property: the developer's real estate office.

Moving forward

During the public forum, Mayor Evans laid out ways to stop a similar situation from happening in the future, including having the village clerk be the secretary for the planning and zoning boards, and for there to be more involvement in these board's meetings from the town attorney and engineer.

But for the moment, Coxsackie is stuck with the mostly completed hotel, and Flach seems to be taking the position that completing construction is the only option.

In the new Planning Board application, Flach writes that "the project will not be a viable development without the requested building height variance"  in effect saying the project is a no-go without the retroactive approvals.

The zoning board must grant the eight variances for the project to move forward. At that point, the Planning Board would most likely take over and consider the project's new site plan, according to Village Attorney Robert Strout.

The Planning Board has already determined the new plan is a "Type I" action, according to Strout, meaning it may have to go through the lengthy approval process the project initially avoided.

When asked Friday why a new site plan had not been submitted to the Planning Board when plans changed, Flach pointed out there were no blueprints originally provided to the board, only descriptions  though the descriptions laid out a different project than what Flach built.

He added that "over the course of COVID, when the building plan got developed  no additional review happened," though no additional review could have happened without him submitting a new site plan, or at least informing the Planning Board of variations from the original site plan.

The Coxsackie zoning board meets Monday to begin reviewing Flach's requested code variances.
Kristina Kris Robbins has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Chief Operations Officer (COO) at First Interstate Bank.

In her new role, Robbins will provide leadership around client-focused strategies for the deposit and lending operations teams as well as the Client Contact Center. Robbins will report directly to Kevin Riley, First Interstates President and CEO.

Its a privilege to be part of the First Interstate family, and I am honored to work with such a talented team of banking professionals, Robbins stated. I joined First Interstate Bank because I admire how its employees lead with purpose and integrity, Robbins explained. I am excited to join the Banks Executive Team as we continue to build upon our proud history of operational excellence.

A seasoned executive, Robbins has over 20 years of financial industry experience and most recently served as First Interstates Director of Loan Operations. Prior to joining First Interstate in 2018, Robbins was the Director of Lending Operations, Executive Vice President at Umpqua Bank.

Robbins started her banking career in Spokane, Washington and has a passion for supporting and empowering young men and women in her community. Robbins and her family live in Billings, Montana, where she actively supports and promotes quality educational opportunities for youth.

In February 2022, First Interstate Bank merged with Great Western Bank, expanding First Interstates service area from six to 14 states. On May 23, 2022, all Great Western Bank locations officially converted to First Interstate branches, providing community banking services to more than 300 locations.

As our Company continues to grow, my commitment in this new role will remain focused around executing on a superior experience for the employees, clients, and communities we serve, Robbins said.

First Interstate Bank is a community bank with $33 billion in assets as of March 31, 2022. First Interstate proudly delivers financial solutions across Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, Missouri, Minnesota, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Washington, and Wyoming. A recognized leader in community banking services, First Interstate is driven by strong values as well as a commitment to delivering a rewarding experience to its employees, strong returns to shareholders, exceptional products and services to its clients, and resources to the communities it serves. More information is available at firstinterstate.com.

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SCHENECTADY  In the dash for a new open Senate seat carved out by the redistricting process, Democrats for one Capital Region seat have managed to short-circuit a primary while Republicans are barreling towards a combative process.

Thearse McCalmon, one of two Democrats who were seeking the nomination for the redrawn 44th District, dropped out of the race on Friday and endorsed County Legislator Michelle Ostrelich. Each were making their second runs at the seat, which includes the city of Schenectady, Niskayuna and Saratoga County.

Primaries are healthy and needed, McCalmon said in a joint appearance with Ostrelich on Friday. But we cannot wait until weve exhausted our resources and our community to come together. Unity is a necessitynow more than ever.

The bid marks the fourth in as many years for a political seat for McCalmon, including attempts at City Council, state Senate and a Democratic primary bid for Schenectady mayor in 2019 in which she nearly routed incumbent Gary McCarthy.

Primary voters for the state Senate and U.S. Congress head to the polls Aug. 23.

Ostrelich might head to a contest with State Sen. James Tedisco, R-Glenville. But Tedisco is locked in his own primary battle against Halfmoon Republican state Senator Daphne Jordan, a Republican who is running for reelection in the district, which contains a wide swath of Saratoga County residents (and excludes Tedisco's Glenville home by a handful of miles).

The flap has opened up schisms within the party: Tedisco said candidates should heed party backers, including the Saratoga GOP Committee, who has endorsed him. Jordan has lashed his "backdoor political machinations."

The results are in See the winners of each category of the 2022 Best of the Capital Region contest, as determined by popular vote.

The state Conservative Party has backed Jordan, who has called the nomination process flawed, and maintains Tedisco should run against longtime state Senator Neil Breslin, a Bethlehem Democrat, in a nearby district more favorable to Democrats.

The heavily Democratic 46th District includes Schenectady County (excluding the city of Schenectady and Niskayuna), Albany County (without Cohoes, Watervliet and Colonie) and Montgomery County.

Tedisco and Breslin are just two examples of the new political district lines that were finalized last month, throwing perennially incumbent elected officials into competitions.

Other districts have resulted in free-for-all contests, including the highly-sought after New Yorks 10th Congressional District, which has seen nearly a dozen hopefuls annnounce races, including former New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, state Asssemblywoman Yuh-Line Niou and U.S. Rep. Mondaire Jones.
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PHOENIX (AP)  A federal judge has denied an Arizona prisoners bid to delay his execution in the 1984 killing of an 8-year-old girl, according to the ruling posted Sunday.

U.S. District Judge Michael Liburdis decision keeps on track Wednesdays scheduled execution of Frank Atwood, who argued the states death penalty procedures would violate his constitutional right against cruel and unusual punishment by subjecting him to unimaginable pain.

His lawyers said Atwood, who has a degenerative spinal condition that has left him in a wheelchair, would undergo excruciating suffering if he were strapped to a gurney while lying on his back during his lethal injection execution.

Liburdi said in the ruling made Saturday that he would not block the execution based on Atwoods claim, noting that the state will provide Atwood with a medical wedge that will relieve pressure on his spine and can also tilt the execution table. He said those accommodations will minimize the pain Plaintiff experiences when he lies on his back.

The constitution, Liburdi wrote, does not require a pain-free execution, and that Atwoods position will be similar to what he typically assumes in his cell to limit pain.

Liburdi also rejected challenges to the drug the state plans to use and dismissed Atwoods claim over the Arizonas use of the gas chamber, saying it was irrelevant because he will be executed using lethal injection.

The challenge to his method of execution is one of a flurry of last-minute appeals by Atwood. Hes also asking the Arizona Supreme Court to delay his execution while his lawyers pursue claims that he is actually innocent of killing the little girl. That court denied a stay late last week, but is now considering the new claim.

And his lawyers continue to spar with the state over religious accommodations prior to and during his execution. He has been a practitioner of the Greek Orthodox faith for more than two decades and wants the state to allow him to undergo a religious initiation ceremony before the execution and receive last rites while in the execution chamber. The state has mainly agreed, but the two sides are at odds over exact details. A different federal judge is overseeing that matter.

The states insistence on cyanide gas is a cynical choice to force the acceptance of the danger and incompetence of its lethal injection method, at the cost of embracing Nazi methods of mass extermination, Joseph Perkovich, an attorney for Atwood, said in an email Sunday.

Atwood was convicted of murder in the 1984 killing of Vicki Hoskinson.

Authorities have said Atwood kidnapped the girl, whose remains were discovered in the desert northwest of Tucson nearly seven months after her disappearance. Experts could not determine the cause of death from the remains that were found, according to court records.

Atwood maintains that he is innocent of the crimes.

Until last month, Arizona went almost eight years without carrying out an execution. The hiatus has been attributed to the difficulty of securing lethal injection drugs as manufacturers refuse to supply them and to problems encountered during the July 2014 execution of Joseph Wood, who was given 15 doses of a two-drug combination over nearly two hours. Wood snorted repeatedly and gasped before he died. His attorney said the execution had been botched.

The results are in See the winners of each category of the 2022 Best of the Capital Region contest, as determined by popular vote.

The hiatus ended on May 11 when the state executed prisoner Clarence Dixon for his murder conviction in the 1978 killing of Deana Bowdoin, a 21-year-old Arizona State University student.

As part of Atwoods argument to get his execution delayed, his lawyers questioned whether the compounded pentobarbital to be used in the execution meets pharmaceutical standards and whether the state has met a requirement that the drugs expiration date falls after the execution date.

Prosecutors say Atwood was trying to indefinitely postpone his execution through legal maneuvers.

Two weeks ago, Atwood declined to choose between lethal injection or the gas chamber, leaving him to be put to death by lethal injection, the states default execution method.

Arizona, California, Missouri and Wyoming are the only states with decades-old lethal-gas execution laws still on the books. Arizona, which carried out the last gas chamber execution in the United States more than two decades ago, is the only state to still have a working gas chamber.

In recent years, Oklahoma, Mississippi and Alabama have passed laws allowing executions with nitrogen gas, at least in some circumstances, though experts say its never been done and no state has established a protocol that would allow it.

Atwoods lawyers also said Arizona could take up executions by firing squad, a method of execution not used in the state.
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ALBANY  Police said they found a 33-year-old man shot in the torso on Central Avenue late Saturday night, who later was pronounced dead at Albany Medical Center Hospital.

Albany police said there were gunshots heard around 11 p.m. Saturday on Central between Partridge Street and Manning Boulevard.
In 2012, after the massacre of 20 children and six adults at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn., Wayne LaPierre, the executive vice president of the National Rifle Association, declared, "The only thing that stops a bad guy with a gun is a good guy with a gun."

The notion was hardly new in American culture, but the pithy soundbite went viral in our nation's already contaminated gun debate. All we need, in the NRA's mythos, is enough well-intentioned people with guns  enough John Waynes, enough Charles Bronsons, enough Rambos, enough Equalizers  to stop killers in their tracks. Other than a handful of episodes that the gun industry and its shills try to hold up as proof of Mr. LaPierre's mantra, it's largely a fiction.

We saw how fictitious it is in the May 14 mass shooting at Tops Friendly Markets in Buffalo, where a retired police officer and security guard for the store confronted the gunman. Heroic, yes  but futile, too: His shots failed to penetrate the gunman's armored vest. The gunman fired back, killing the armed guard. Nine more victims were slain.

We saw it again in Uvalde, Texas, in the May 24 massacre at Robb Elementary School, where police retreated under fire from a lone gunman armed with an assault rifle, and didnt enter the classroom for over an hour. Yes, the shooter was finally killed by a Border Patrol Tactical Unit officer, but not before the gunman shot 19 students and two teachers to death.

The idea that good intentions and a gun will somehow level the killing field is flawed in a society with such easy access to assault weapons, high-capacity magazines, body armor, and other equipment originally designed for military or law enforcement use. These weapons and accouterments of war  popularized and heavily marketed by gun manufacturers after Congress allowed an assault weapons ban to expire in 2004  should have no place in general commercial circulation.

Credit New York state lawmakers and the last two governors, at least, for recognizing this. After Sandy Hook, lawmakers and Gov. Andrew Cuomo ushered into law the Secure Ammunition and Firearm Enforcement (SAFE) Act, which banned certain assault weapons and included measures to keep guns out of the hands of dangerously mentally ill people. And now, in the wake of the tragedies in Buffalo, Uvalde and elsewhere, lawmakers and Gov. Kathy Hochul have moved to restrict the sale of body armor, require permits for semi-automatic rifles, raise the age for purchasing such weapons to 21, and penalize possession of large-capacity ammunition feeding mechanisms, among other things.

The legislation admittedly has its shortcomings, just as the SAFE Act did. The SAFE Act included a requirement that ammunition sellers run a background check on buyers and keep a record of sales, but only after the superintendent of the State Police certifies that a database for the process is operational. That hasn't happened.

Likewise, the latest legislation calls for guns sold in New York to be equipped for microstamping  the process of imprinting a unique microscopic code on ammunition cartridge casings when fired  but only when the state Division of Criminal Justice Services certifies the viability of the technology. If the State Police's foot-dragging on the ammunition program  abetted by Mr. Cuomo  is any indication, that could take years. And legislators and Ms. Hochul might have first looked at the experience in California, which has had a microstamping law on the books since 2007, but has been working to refine it in the face of gun industry tactics to exploit loopholes in the law. In any case, they should now make sure DCJS prioritizes this.

Ultimately, though, New York can only do so much. The assault weapons, high capacity magazines and body armor that New York bans can be legally purchased in states with looser gun laws. And with so many guns from other states being used frequently in crimes in New York, a state microstamping requirement will likely solve few crimes, for now.

What's needed, of course, is nationwide action by Congress of the breadth and depth of New York's. Sadly, to believe that will happen is as absurd at this moment in time as Mr. LaPierre's good-guy-with-a-gun fantasy.

But with lawmakers now in what appear to be earnest, bipartisan talks, the least we should expect  and demand  is what must be possible for a nation recoiling at the deaths of so many innocent people, young, old and in-between: universal background checks. A ban on high-capacity magazines. Restricted sales of body armor. A strong "red flag" law.

Not even halfway through 2022, the United States has already seen 233 mass shootings  incidents in which at least four people were killed or injured  according to data gathered by the Gun Violence Archive.

Sign up for the Observation Deck newsletter Read the latest Times Union opinion, perspective and letters to the editor on Mondays by signing up for our Observation Deck newsletter.

Gun violence so far this year has claimed the lives of 152 children under the age of 12, and 543 teenagers; 1,725 children under 18 were wounded. Last year, gun violence killed more than 19,400 people. More than 5,100 children and teens were killed by a firearm.

And so far this year, 21 police officers  21 good guys with guns  have been killed by intentional gunfire, according to the Officer Down Memorial Page.

This is the reality America must confront  with thoughtful, commonsense, constitutionally sound laws and regulations that have broad support from a public brokenhearted at loss of life and frustrated by the power the gun lobby holds over our elected representatives.

To fail to act, as Congress has ultimately failed after every mass shooting since Sandy Hook, would keep our nation once again stuck in what is no longer merely a fantasy, but a nightmare.
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ALBANY  With little public debate, the state Legislature passed a bill near the end of its session last week that's been characterized by opponents as the largest industry-specific tax break ever granted by New Yorks government.

The bill would provide large, private businesses up to $10 billion in state tax credits over 20 years to promote the growth of new, "green" semiconductor manufacturing projects.

It was introduced by legislators last Tuesday at the request of Gov. Kathy Hochuls office, and passed the Senate by Thursday, the final day those lawmakers were in Albany. On Saturday morning around 8 a.m.  after the Assembly had been voting on bills continuously for 20 hours  sleep-deprived lawmakers who were enduring the grueling schedule passed the measure in their chamber before adjourning their work.

Watchdog groups have questioned why the bill, regardless of its merits, was hastily pushed by Hochul's office.

"This is like the ugliest of Albany," said John Kaehny, executive director of Reinvent Albany. "In this type of fog, the governors office can misinform the Legislature, and do it all at the last second."

This spring, less than four days before the state budget was due, Hochul announced an agreement to subsidize a new, $1.4 billion stadium for the NFL's privately owned Buffalo Bills  a move also giving lawmakers little time to examine an enormous state benefit to the private sector.

The state's "Green CHIPS" bill aims to entice computer chip manufacturers to build new factories, also known as "fabs," in upstate New York. The bill would create a new subset of tax incentives the state can offer chip-makers through its Excelsior business tax credit program.

Hochul's push came after U.S. Sen. Charles E. Schumer of New York has pressed to dramatically expand semiconductor production across the country. At the same time, Schumer is keeping an eye on how New York can win the competition between states to land the well-paying jobs.

A spokeswoman for Empire State Development, the governor's economic development arm, said the bill's late-session introduction was simply a matter of the proposal being "developed very recently." The spokeswoman, Kristin Devoe, said the legislation is a way to capitalize on the anticipated passage of Schumer's bill in Congress, putting New York "in the best position to stand apart from the other states and countries who are trying to attract the semiconductor industry."

"The speed of its development and passage comes alongside a number of significant recent developments on Capitol Hill of late," Devoe said. "For example, the congressional conference committee on the bill just held its first public meeting on May 12, a little over three weeks ago. The bill needed to be passed by sessions end to make sure that (New York) is ready for the passage of the federal bill."

Besides semiconductor manufacturers, another beneficiary of the bill will be building trades unions, major political supporters of Hochul and many state legislators. The bill includes a requirement that federal prevailing wage be paid on the new construction projects, which will make the potential developments costlier for companies to build here. Asked about the reason for the state mandate, Devoe said that a prevailing wage mandate was also expected to be part of the federal bill.

The Assembly passed the measure using a "fast roll call," where lawmakers are assumed to be in the affirmative, unless they indicate otherwise. The only person recorded in the negative at the time of the vote was Queens Assemblyman Ron Kim, a Democrat. A spokeswoman for Assemblyman Phil Steck, a Colonie Democrat, said Steck also voted in the negative.

Democratic Assemblyman Al Stirpe, the bill's Assembly sponsor, said in a floor speech that its passage was the final barrier to multiple, "massive" semiconducter projects coming to New York. He asserted the biggest one would land in his Syracuse-area district.

Stirpe's district includes the White Pine Commerce Park, which Intel and others reportedly looked at for semiconductor manufacturing. Intel since decided to build in Ohio.

"To those of you who may doubt that we should have tax credits for these kinds of businesses, this has been a transformative industry," said Democratic Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner, whose district includes Malta-based GlobalFoundries, one of the largest semiconducter manufacturers in North America. "There's a reason Saratoga County is the only county outside of New York City that grew over the past 10 years. And it is because we have semiconducter manufacturing in the midst of our county."

The bill was introduced in the state Senate on Tuesday, two days before it passed. The short interval meant it required a "message of necessity" to be issued by Hochul, a tool allowing an immediate vote on complex legislation.

The bill, which was placed on the state Senates "non-controversial" calendar, passed by a vote of 61-2. The lone dissenters were two state Senate Democrats, James Skoufis and Liz Krueger.

"We owe people in New York transparency and accountability when we do these kinds of deals," Krueger said in explaining her vote in opposition. "And this one will be the biggest one New York state has ever done."

Krueger estimated that, with local tax breaks that often accompany the state's, the true cost of the new measure could be upwards of $20 billion.

According to Reinvent Albany, the states Excelsior tax credit expenditures totaled $163 million for the fiscal year ending in March. Though that Excelsior program, the new bill would allow the state to offer up to $500 million a year in state tax credits to chip companies that build new factories here.

The companies would be required to create at least 500 new jobs; spend at least $3 billion in capital investment over a period of ten years; spend $15 for every $1 of state incentives; and include "sustainability measures" to mitigate the "project's greenhouse gas emissions impact over its lifetime." The Hochul administration contends state and local taxes generated will more than pay for the cost of the incentives.

States across the country are lining up to court chip manufacturers as Congress debates passage of a $52 billion subsidy program, which would provide companies with billions of dollars to build new domestic chip factories.

The House and the U.S. Senate are still reconciling differences in their proposals, though lawmakers of both parties support combating China's growing influence in the global chip sector.

For potential projects in New York to land some of the expected federal $52 billion, the Hochul administration says, New York, like other states, will have to offer :"some form of state support" to the chip manufacturers.

Krueger said shed expressed concern to Schumer that he was encouraging "range wars between the states" resulting in New York giving away even "more of our tax dollars" to attract companies that might have been "perfectly happy to come to us just on the federal program." Schumer, the Senate majority leader, is the author of the Senate's bill.

Kaehny, with Reinvent Albany, notes that the state tax break takes effect immediately and is not contingent on the passage of the Schumer's bill. If Hochul signs the "Green CHIPS" bill  but Schumers effort in Congress fails  the tax break here would remain.

Concerning the state bill's labeling it a "green" initiative, Kaehny argues that chip manufacturers would naturally seek to become more energy efficient over time, regardless of the state incentive.

Devoe, the ESD spokeswoman, said the two chambers of Congress were actively negotiating differences between the bills they've individually passed. The Hochul administration expects a compromise.

"As soon as Congress passes CHIPS legislation, we expect many companies to finalize their location decisions in order to 'get in line' to secure federal incentives," Devoe said. "By creating an incentive for these companies right now as they make location decisions, we can position New York as the best home for many semiconductor manufacturers."

The office of state Sen. Jeremy Cooney, the bill's Senate sponsor, said the bill was not introduced on behalf of a specific company. Hochul's office said the same.

Competition for chip fabs, which can cost between $1 billion to as much as $10 billion to build and equip, is fierce. The industry is looking to expand its domestic footprint perhaps more than any other time in its history amid chip shortages and China's growing influence.

GlobalFoundries was given about $1.5 billion a decade ago to build its Saratoga County complex. The company has spent $15 billion and has promised to build a second factory there.

E.J. McMahon, founding senior fellow at the fiscally conservative Empire Center for Public Policy, said that after just a few years, the cost of the new legislation "would surpass all the direct and indirect state subsidies of GlobalFoundries."

He criticized the prevailing wage requirement benefiting building trades unions, arguing that it would "undermine the state's ability to actually compete" for chip-makers, while providing a "heavy, direct and full taxpayer subsidy for the substantial added cost of union contractors and labor."

Larry Rulison contributed reporting.
This isn't a good sign or a good look for those of us looking for realistic and local solutions to rising violence on Kansas City streets . . .

KCMO MAYOR Q IS LEADING DEMOCRATIC PARTY OUTCRY AGAINST GUNS!!!

The strategy might have political benefits on the national level but locally gun control is a non-starter in Jeff City and outside a small clique of elite insiders.

Even worse . . .

Most gun control chatter has FAILED to solve violence on local streets as deadly violence continues along a RECORD-BREAKING pace.



In fairness, here's what the city hall honcho seyz on the topic . . .



"Mayor Quinton Lucas of Kansas City, Missouri, says federal lawmakers are "basically just throwing up their hands" in the wake of the recent spate of mass shootings."

More deets on the appearance from KCTV5 . . .

Mayor Lucas expressed his frustration as the Kansas City itself deals with a disturbing murder rate.



Im incredibly disappointed to hear this big set of ideas that they have and then basically just throw up their hands and blamed it on prosecutors, fathers not being in the home and a number of issues other than gun violence in our cities, the mayor said. Youve seen my city file lawsuits against gun manufacturers. We will continue to clamor for more authorities to be able to help prevent gun violence. But more than anything, we need stronger and tougher laws that protect our children, protect our grocery stores protect our police officers. If you back the blue, you back common-sense gun reform.



Kansas City was ranked No. 8 in the country for highest murder rate. The murder rate in Kansas City is 29.88 per 100,000, according to FBI data. Kansas City is already outpacing 2021s total (157) for homicides with 66 to date, Kansas City Police Department numbers show.



Take a look via www.TonysKansasCity.com link/embed . . .

You decide . . .
Today the newspaper shares the cure for a worsening economy . . . The idea is complex . . . But it's basically socialism in a Summer dress, without many deets and by way of trusting local corproate rulers.

Here's a bit of their screed . . .



"In America today, almost 30% of all accumulated wealth is owned by 1% of Americans. Worse, CNBC and the last census suggest that 50% of all Americans have no savings at all. And I mean nothing  zip, zilch, nada. Many solutions offered to fix this problem are only short-term Band-Aids and do not solve the root problem.



"Charitable help, government safety nets and Medicaid are all critical. Likewise, Social Security, pensions and 401(k)s, while great programs, only create non-poor retirements. Some believe the solution is a higher minimum wage. I support a higher minimum wage, but all of these initiatives do little to nothing in terms of long-term, sustainable wealth creation.



"Equal-but-poor is not the end goal. Extreme wealth disparity may just be the natural conclusion of all-out capitalism, but it is not in the best fiscal interest of our nation. Thats not a left or a right conclusion  it is a fiscally conservative requirement for the continuation of economic greatness."

A couple of funnies . . .

The goal of the newspaper was to praise some of the big local corporations who dominate city hall and government contracts.

Also . . .

No idea how a newspaper owned by a hedge fund is arguing for "economic democracy" with a straight face.



Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .

Employee ownership is the key to economic justice, and Kansas City is poised to lead OPINION AND COMMENTARY Can the solution for economic justice be best found in the heart of America? We know that Kansas City has been experiencing exciting momentum the last several years. In fact, some of the most successful companies with the happiest employees here in the metropolitan area are employee-owned.

You decide . . .


As always, here at TKC we believe that a stupid question deserves an equally silly and hopefully stupider answer.

To wit . . .

Let's forget for a moment that so many Democratic Party leaders are focused on disarming and betraying lawful gun owners in the urban core and amongst their constituency.

Still . . .

CALLING OUT BLACK RIFLES SEEMS KINDA RACIST!!! BLACK RIFLES WERE JUST MINDING THEIR OWN BIZ UNTIL WHITE YOUNGSTERS USED THEM IN HORRIFIC SCHOOL SHOOTINGS!!!

Don't worry . . . The national debate this week will be even dumber than our conversation.



Accordingly, we notice that prog blogs across the region are offering this line of reasoning . . .

"When a 10-year federal ban on assault rifles ended in 2004, the AR-15 and similar rifles became wildly popular. Black rifles are modular in design, and the configuration of these weapons are only limited by the imaginations of the owners and the companies that sell accessories. Perhaps because they were once banned, they have become a symbol of freedom among some groups. The rocker Ted Nugent, also an NRA board member, has been publicly and aggressively vocal about his enthusiasm for black rifles.



"But no matter how enthusiasts might rhapsodize about them, the AR-15 and related rifles are designed for one thing: killing human beings.



"Shooters used these kinds of weapons in 2012 at Sandy Hook Elementary in Connecticut, where 26 were killed; at the Pulse Nightclub in Orlando, 49 dead; and in 2017 at Las Vegas, with 58 dead and 500 wounded, the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history. The Las Vegas shooter was using a bump stock.



"Black rifles have been used in scores of other mass shootings and, more recently, to kill 19 fourth graders and two teachers at an elementary school at Uvalde, Texas.



"The killer at Uvalde, 18-year-old Salvador Ramos, legally purchased two AR-15 style rifles, along with several hundred rounds of ammunition, as a birthday present for himself, just days before the shooting."

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .

Black rifles are the favorite of mass shooters. To save lives, these guns have to go. - Kansas Reflector We must ban the black rifles. It's the only way to stop the epidemic of mass killings in America, where the favored weapon of the gunmen (and they are nearly all men) is the AR-15 and its variants, assault weapons collectively known as "black rifles."

Further reading . . .

Sen. Chris Murphy 'more confident than ever' Congress can reach deal on gun laws but anxious about failure Connecticut Sen. Chris Murphy, the lead Democratic negotiator in bipartisan talks on gun control legislation, said Sunday he's "more confident than ever" lawmakers will be able to get something done to address gun violence across the US, while acknowledging he's also concerned their efforts could fail.

Scalise blasts Dems for rushing to call for gun control after shootings, blames liberal DAs for rising crime Rep. Steve Scalise, R-LA, went after Democrats over their response to recent mass shootings, arguing that politicians on the left are "quick" to go after guns. "Well, John, the best way forward is first of all, when you have a shooting, instead of sitting down and going okay, what is really causing this?"

Poll: Americans overwhelmingly prioritize gun control over ownership rights Seventy percent of Americans think enacting new gun control laws should take precedence over protecting ownership rights, according to an ABC News/Ipsos poll out Sunday. Why it matters: The findings indicate widespread support for stricter gun control laws in the wake of mass shootings in Buffalo, New York, Uvalde, Texas and Tulsa, Oklahoma.

A House Democrat plans to introduce a bill that would hit AR-15's with a 1,000% tax - and it could pass Congress without GOP votes A recent string of mass shootings is causing Rep. Don Beyer to seek an aggressive tax on AR-15 style weapons. Beyer said his bill is a "creative pathway" to restrict AR-15 sales with only Democratic votes. It faces very steep odds against passage in an election year.

Sunday shows preview: Lawmakers debate gun control measures The ongoing debate over gun control is expected to dominate this week's Sunday show circuit, with lawmakers from both parties set to appear on the networks as Congress attempts to reach a deal on gun reform. High-profile shootings at a supermarket in Buffalo, N.Y., an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas and a hospital in Tulsa,...

Texas donors to GOP, Gov. Abbott sign letter backing gun control measures Conservatives and Republican donors in Texas signed an open letter calling for Congress to take action in backing stricter gun control measures following last week's mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde.

Catholic leaders urge stronger gun control measures on state, federal level WASHINGTON, D.C. - In the wake of recent mass shootings that have devastated local communities and the nation at large, several U.S. bishops, women's religious orders and Catholic organizations have called for stricter federal gun control measures, while state Catholic conferences have rallied behind local measures attempting to curb the spate of gun violence.

You decide . . .
Anushay Sheikh poses outside the University of Toronto. The former U of T law student filed a Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario complaint against the university for not accommodating her on the basis of her disabilities. - Paige Taylor White / Toronto Star
Canadas Wonderland is thanking Toronto health-care workers for their ongoing efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic with 3,450 tickets to its park with 17 rollercoasters  the third-most coasters in any amusement park in the world.
Silver is completely housebroken and loves the security of his crate. Being a young Heeler mix, he will be happiest in a home that stimulates his brain and keeps his body active. Silver has a little familiarity with cats and livestock, so with proper introductions he should get along just fine with other animals. He also enjoys the company of other non-dominant canines, and would love a canine brother or sister. His obedience training could use some fine tuning, he sometimes jumps up on people when he is excited and pulls on his leash. He likes to nudge people with his nose to get their attention. And, in true Heeler fashion, Silver can be a bit mouthy. He's smart, and will soak up any training he is provided.
The Russian army can stop killing if one person in Moscow gives such an order, and the absence of such an order is a humiliation for the whole world.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said this in a nightly video address, according to Ukrinform.

Ukrainians!

All our defenders!

On this day, the 101st day of the full-scale war, the Skete of All Saints burned down in the Svyatohirsk Lavra in the Donetsk region. It caught fire as a result of Russian artillery shelling.

Not the first shelling of the Lavra. Three Lavra monks were killed by the Russian shelling on Wednesday. Worship services are forced to be held in the basement. The roar of artillery and the "arrivals" of Russian shells are constant in the Lavra.

And this is one of the three Lavras of Ukraine. This is the Lavra of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, which is still considered in Moscow to be connected with the Russian Orthodox Church. Even this does not stop the Russian army.

They are ready to burn everything: Orthodox churches just like anything else in Ukraine. During the full-scale war, 113 churches have already been destroyed or damaged by Russian shelling. Among them are the ancient ones - those that withstood World War II, but did not withstand the Russian occupation. There are also those that were built after 1991. Reconstruction of the Skete of All Saints of the Svyatohirsk Lavra began in 2001. June 10 would be another anniversary of the beginning of construction.

I was interested in what Russian propagandists would say about the destruction of the skete. But, in fact, nothing interesting. They are very predictable. Ukrainians are accused of arson. Although the monks and laity in Svyatohirya saw perfectly that it was Russian artillery.

I believe that this lie of the propagandists, this shelling, and the support of the Orthodox hierarchs in Russia for the aggression against Ukraine - all this should motivate the Ukrainian Orthodox Church to draw conclusions. More decisive conclusions and a clear condemnation of each of those who condone aggression.

Ukrainian diplomats will do everything to make everyone in the world aware of this another crime of the occupiers. Russia is deliberately and systematically destroying Ukraine's cultural and historical heritage, as well as social infrastructure, housing, and everything necessary for normal life.

A state that does this cannot be a member of UNESCO and cannot remain at the UN as if nothing had happened. The UN Charter does not provide any rights for terrorists, and UNESCO is not a place for barbarians.

Russian troops again fired at the border areas of the Sumy region, Mykolaiv, cities and communities of the Zaporizhzhia region, Kharkiv region.

The situation in Severodonetsk, where street fighting continues, remains extremely difficult. It is also difficult in Lysychansk, Marinka, Kurakhove, other cities and communities of Donbas. Constant air strikes, artillery and missile fire. As of this morning, the total number of various Russian missiles used against Ukraine is already 2,503.

Our heroes hold their positions and do everything to inflict maximum losses on the enemy. I am grateful to each of our defenders who are approaching the day when Russia will have to leave Donbas alone.

Today in our country the memory of children who died from Russian aggression was honored. Over the past day, the worst figure - the number of children killed - has not changed. 261 children. That's how many Ukrainian children lost their lives because of Russia. But this is the official number. The more we learn about those who were buried in the occupied territories, the greater, unfortunately, may be the number of names on this list.

It's scary to read. Year of birth, place of residence, circumstances of death... All of them would be alive now if only one person in Moscow had not caused this catastrophe.

This can no longer be fixed. Because this war is already going on. But the terrible consequences of this war can be stopped at any moment.

The Russian army can stop burning churches. The Russian army can stop destroying cities. The Russian army can stop killing children. If the same person in Moscow just gives such an order. And the fact that there is still no such order is an obvious humiliation for the whole world.

Eternal memory to all who died from the Russian invasion!

Eternal glory to everyone who defends Ukraine!

Glory to Ukraine!
Russian troops have fired 2,503 missiles against Ukraine since the beginning of the Russian all-out invasion.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said this in a nightly video address, according to Ukrinform.

"As of this morning [on June 4], the total number of various Russian missiles used against Ukraine is already 2,503," he said.

Zelensky noted that Russian troops again fired at the border areas of the Sumy region, Mykolaiv, cities and communities of the Zaporizhzhia and Kharkiv regions. The situation in Sievierodonetsk, where street fighting continues, remains extremely difficult. It is also difficult in Lysychansk, Marinka, Kurakhove, other cities and communities of Donbas, which are under constant air strikes, artillery and missile fire.

However, Ukrainian heroes hold their positions and do everything to inflict maximum losses on the enemy, Zelensky added.

On February 24, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the beginning of the invasion of Ukraine. Russian troops are shelling and destroying critical infrastructure and residential areas of Ukrainian cities, towns and villages using artillery, multiple rocket launchers, ballistic missiles, and air bombs.

Martial law was imposed in Ukraine and general mobilization was announced. The European Union, the United States and other countries have imposed strong sanctions against the aggressor country.
In Kharkiv direction, the Ukrainian military reinforces the defense in the areas of the improved tactical position.

"In Kharkiv direction, measures are taken to reinforce the defense in the areas where our troops managed to improve their tactical position," Commander of the Defense Forces, Lieutenant General Serhiy Nayev said while visiting the Ukrainian positions, the Joint Forces Command of the Armed Forces of Ukraine posted on Facebook.

According to the Commander, the enemy continues artillery shelling and launches airstrikes in Donetsk direction. In Zaporizhzhia direction, the Ukrainian troops shore up the resilience of their defense to prevent an enemy breakthrough. In Luhansk region, the Ukrainian troops repel numerous enemy attacks that last almost all night and all day. The enemy carries out six or more offensive actions in the areas of responsibility of some brigades.

According to Nayev, the groups of troops in Kharkiv, Luhansk, Donetsk, and Zaporizhzhia directions are led by experienced combat generals who take all possible measures to strengthen the resilience of defense.

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Ukrainian defenders have destroyed four Russian tanks, one attack helicopter and three artillery systems in the Joint Forces Operation (JFO) area over the past day.

The relevant statement was made by the Joint Forces Task Force on Facebook, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

The JFO fighters continue to keep the defense within the designated control area in the Donetsk and Luhansk directions.

All over the defense line, the enemy is using combat aviation, multiple launch rocket systems, cannon artillery, tanks, mortars, and launching missile and air strikes on civil infrastructure facilities and peaceful residential areas.

Russian invaders opened fire on more than 20 settlements in Donetsk Region and Luhansk Region, having destroyed and damaged 41 civilian objects, namely 33 residential houses, hospital, water pipeline, mixed fodder plant, engineering plant and agricultural enterprise.

Seven civilians were killed in Russias shelling of Donetsk Region and Luhansk Region. The data on casualties are yet to be updated.

The Ukrainian military have repulsed seven enemy attacks in the JFO area over the past day. Battles are still raging within two more locations.

On June 5, 2022, the Joint Forces destroyed four Russian tanks, three artillery systems, eight armored fighting vehicles and three motor vehicles. The Ukrainian anti-aircraft defense units shot down Russias Ka-52 helicopter and unmanned aerial vehicle in the east.

Photo: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine

mk
As the U.S. mourns the victims of its latest mass shooting  19 elementary school students and two teachers gunned down in Texas  Democratic governors are amplifying their calls for greater restrictions on guns.

Many Republican governors are emphasizing a different solution: more security at schools.

The divide among the nation's governors mirrors a partisan split that has stymied action in Congress and many state capitols over how best to respond to a record-high number of gun-related deaths in the U.S. The political differences tap deep into the country's roots, highlighting the tensions between life, liberty and the constitutional rights spelled out in the nation's founding documents.

After the massacre Tuesday at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, The Associated Press asked governors across the U.S. whether they believed their states have an obligation to reduce mass shootings and violence committed with guns and, if so, how to do that.

About half the governor's offices responded to the AP. There was agreement that they had a responsibility to try to do something.

Were heartbroken by the horrific and senseless tragedy in Uvalde and extend our deepest sympathies to the grieving families," North Dakota Republican Gov. Doug Burgum said. "Its appropriate to evaluate what steps can be taken to prevent tragedies such as this, and those conversations should include enhancing mental health resources, securing our schools and reinforcing existing gun laws. At the same time, we must protect the rights of law-abiding, responsible gun owners as outlined in the U.S. Constitution and North Dakota Constitution.

Democrats and Republicans alike mentioned the need to invest in mental health services and training to try to help people potentially prone to a violent outburst.

But the commonality generally ended after that.

Should people younger than 21 be prohibited from buying semi-automatic guns? Should ammunition magazines be limited to no more than 10 bullets?

Many Democratic governors said yes.

If youre not serious about guns, youre not serious about crime prevention. I think thats more true today than ever before," said Democratic Gov. Ned Lamont of Connecticut, where 20 students and six adults were killed at Sandy Hook Elementary School a decade ago.

Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf said he supports limits on both bullet capacities and the purchase of semi-automatic weapons. He rallied Friday with gun-control advocates in Philadelphia while denouncing his state's Republican-led Legislature for not passing his gun proposals.

They would rather cave in cravenly to the gun manufacturing lobby than pass commonsense legislation that would keep children from dying, Wolf said.

Among Republican governors who responded to the AP, only Vermont Gov. Phil Scott expressed support for such gun control efforts. Scott signed a law in 2018 limiting the capacity of firearm magazines and raising the general age to buy guns to 21, with exceptions for 18- to 20-year-olds who undergo a firearms safety course.

Other Republican governors either sidestepped the AP's questions about specific gun-control measures or said they opposed them. Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy was a firm no on setting bullet limits or age restrictions that could infringe on constitutional rights.

Stricter gun laws are not a solution to this problem  we must focus our attention on the status of mental health in our communities, Dunleavy's office said in email.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said he would not endorse such gun-control proposals, because he believes they have no chance of passing in the state's GOP-led Legislature. DeWine, a Republican, instead proposed spending a significant amount of money on efforts to ensure schools are protected against potential attacks. He didn't outline exactly what that security would entail.

Republican governors were more likely to support efforts to strengthen security at schools. The AP asked about proposals to arm teachers and staff with firearms, add security guards or secure schools with such things as metal detectors and fencing.

During a speech Friday to the National Rifle Association convention in Houston, Republican Gov. Kristi Noem of South Dakota denounced calls for gun-control as garbage and embraced greater school security measures

Why do we protect our banks, our stores and celebrities with armed guards but not our children? Are they not truly our greatest treasure? Noem said.

Republican Gov. Kim Reynolds of Iowa also laid out a variety of potential school safety steps while talking to reporters Friday.

Its looking for ways to harden schools, its talking about having conversations about state resource officers, she said, later adding: "Maybe a single entrance into the school system and making sure educators are trained.

While dismissing proposals to restrict gun ownership, Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb said the solution is to focus on the individual problems and to continue providing grants to schools for security upgrades.

You might call it hardening them when children are in their classroom, said Holcomb, a Republican.

Some Democrats also support funding for specially trained police known as school resources officers, or improving the security of buildings. But none of the Democratic governors who responded to the AP's questions supported arming teachers or staff to deter or stop attacks.

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers  a Democrat who is a former teacher, school superintendent and state education chief  said he's concerned that arming teachers would make schools more dangerous. Placing additional security guards or police at every school building could be both impractical and counterproductive, he said.

Theres not enough people to do it, Evers said, and Im not sure we want to turn our learning institutions into armed camps.

Associated Press writers Scott Bauer in Madison, Wisconsin; Tom Davies in Indianapolis; Susan Haigh in Hartford, Connecticut; David Pitt in Des Moines, Iowa; Andrew Welsh-Huggins in Columbus, Ohio; and AP statehouse reporters from across the U.S. contributed to this report.

More on the school shooting in Uvalde, Texas: https://apnews.com/hub/uvalde-school-shooting

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From June 4, 2022, Energoatom National Nuclear Energy Generating Company of Ukraine will supply electricity to the Republic of Moldova.

The relevant statement was made by the companys press service on Telegram, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

Ukraines largest electricity producer, Energoatom, signed an electricity export contract with Moldovas Energocom. According to the contract, Energoatom is planning to supply 85.2 thousand megawatt-hours of electricity at the price of $77 per megawatt-hour to Moldova in June 2022.

Thanks to export volumes, Energoatom will have an additional source to finance its public service obligations related to the supply of electricity for household consumers.

According to Energoatom, the company has high potential to increase electricity production volumes. Thus, Energoatoms electricity exports to Moldova, and later  to other neighboring EU countries, are an extremely promising area of trade.

Meanwhile, Moldovas electricity consumption greatly depends on the electricity volumes generated by Kuchurgan Power Station, also known as Moldova State Regional Power Station, which is located in Transnistria. Ukraines electricity exports will enable Moldova to diversify electricity supplies and increase its energy security, Energoatom added.

mk
Unblocking Ukrainian grain exports is a global issue so the United States is working on various options to resolve it, including through the United Nations, as well as in other ways involving international partners.

Thats according to William Taylor, Vice President of the U.S. Institute of Peace and a former charge daffaires at the U.S. Embassy in Ukraine.

Taylor told an Ukrinform correspondent in Washington he was aware that Joe Bidens administration is considering answers to these questions.

They are working on this right now. Im absolutely sure, Taylor said.

He noted that various options are under consideration.

The United Nations can play a role and get some agreements on corridors and ways to get through the Black Sea. The United Nations can have negotiations with those nations in the Black Sea like Turkey, like Romania, that can provide these corridors to get through the Black Sea to get that grain out from Odesa, said William Taylor.

In this regard, he stressed the need to resolve a range of issues, including demining the sea, as well as to push back Russian warships for the safe passage of civilian cargo ships.

As for the possibility of resolving the issue through the UN Security Council, Taylor agreed that the Security Council option may not work out in this situation, as Russia, being a permanent member with a veto right, would be able to block any decision. However, according to the expert, such a position of the Russians at the UN will clearly show the entire international community that Moscow is creating a global food security crisis, which the Kremlin would like to avoid.

"We should try it. If the UN doesn't work, we can go in another way, admitted Taylor.

According to him, one of the opportunities for this mission may be setting up international convoys of warships to protect civilian navigation  something that the U.S. government is also considering among the options.

He stressed that Ukrainian grain export blockage is a humanitarian issue on a global scale.

This is a global issue, this is not just Ukrainian or Russian, this is a global issue. And so the whole globe needs to get involved and many nations can provide ships to provide that kind of corridor, Taylor said.

As Ukrinform reported, Russia has blocked all ports and trade routes through which Ukrainian grain was exported worldwide. About 20 million tonnes of grain remain stuck in Ukraine.
Italian Foreign Minister Luigi Di Mao believes that the "world bread war has already begun" because of the grain blockade in Ukraine, which prevents many vulnerable countries from accessing grain and means that there is a risk of new conflicts breaking out in Africa.

That's according to The Business Tribune, Ukrinform reports.

"The global bread war is already going on and we must stop it. We are at risk of political instability in Africa, the proliferation of terrorist organizations, coups. This can be caused by the grain crisis that we are experiencing," Di Maio said.

He added that Russian President Vladimir Putin "must reach a peace agreement as soon as possible, which also includes an agreement on wheat, for example, a ceasefire agreement to allow us to evacuate women, civilians and children who have now been for 100 days under Russian bombs in eastern Ukraine."

"There are 30 million tonnes of grain blocked in Ukrainian ports by Russian warships," Di Maio said, noting that "what we are doing is working for Russia to unblock wheat exports through Ukrainian ports, because at this moment we risk that new wars will break out in Africa."

He recalled that the first meeting with the Mediterranean countries on food security would be held on Tuesday, June 6.

Italy proposed a few days ago to demine Ukrainian ports and create "sea corridors" for the transportation of wheat. Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi called Putin to ask him to unblock grain exports from Ukraine, as well as from Black and Azov ports such as Mariupol captured by Russian troops. Putin, in turn, said that if the West lifted sanctions on Russia, his country would be able to export grain.

Before the war, Ukraine was one of the world's leading exporters of grain and agricultural fertilizers, and its goods were essential to the food security of regions such as the Middle East and North Africa.
The parliamentary delegation of the Republic of Korea headed by Lee Jun-seok, the leader of the ruling People Power Party, visited Kyiv region, including Bucha and Irpin towns.

Today, the parliamentary delegation of the Republic of Korea headed by Lee Jun-seok, the leader of the ruling People Power Party, paid an official visit to Kyiv region. The foreign delegation visited the graves of tortured civilians in Bucha and looked around the destroyed residential neighborhoods in Irpin, Head of the Kyiv Regional Military Administration Oleksiy Kuleba posted on Telegram.

It is noted that the areas of cooperation and joint projects within the framework of reconstruction of Kyiv region were discussed during the visit.

The Kyiv Regional Military Administration thanked the foreign partners for their comprehensive support.

As reported, on June 4, US Ambassador to Ukraine Bridget Brink and Prosecutor General of Ukraine Iryna Venediktova visited Borodianka, Kyiv region, which suffered from the atrocities of Russian invaders.

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When Sayed Khanoghli fled Afghanistan as a teenager  after having lived through threats, seen dead bodies in the streets and lost several family members  he had never heard about the country in the middle of the North Atlantic Sea. It was the Icelandic volunteers he met during his one year in Greece, that made him consider Iceland as a potential safe new home.

I come from a small village, where we were very close to nature, so I could relate to what they told me about Iceland. A small community living in the middle of wild nature. It sounded like it could be my second home, says the now 20-year old Sayed who came to Iceland and was recognized as a refugee in 2018.

With him, he brought memories of fleeing his home country alone, of a strenuous and dangerous journey, and of witnessing tremendous hardship in Greece. With his English skills he was volunteering as an interpreter for a womens rights organization.

I heard horrible stories from pregnant women or mothers with newborn-babies, who had so many challenges and mental issues. It was such a terrible situation in Greece, and Ive been a human rights activist ever since.

However, Sayed also brought ambitions and dreams. Of going back to school and getting an education, but this was easier said than done. He tried applying for high school in Iceland, but was rejected, as he could not provide his school certificate from Afghanistan. This had been lost as his old school had been burnt down.

The solution for Sayed came with Student Refugees. A student-led volunteer initiative in Iceland, that helps and supports refugees and asylum-seekers who want to pursue their education  and might need a helping hand.

Student Refugees offers guidance and mentoring, they host application cafes, where people can get help with their university applications, and they are providing information on the Icelandic education system in order to help young refugees navigate the rules and admission requirements.

A volunteer helped Sayed write a letter to the high school, explaining the situation, and he was accepted and could resume his education. And when COVID-19 shut down the schools in Iceland, the volunteers also helped Sayed find a tutor who could help him and ensure that he did not fall behind.

Behind the Icelandic initiative is the National Student Union LIS, whose members were inspired after meeting the Danish branch of Student Refugees. In 2019, the programme was up and running in Iceland  and according to Derek Allen, president of LIS, it has not been difficult to find supporters and volunteers among the Icelandic students.

In the Student Union we fight for equal rights for all students, and we know that refugees in Iceland are facing obstacles to get an education. Even if refugees have all the prerequisites, it can be quite difficult to navigate the system, explains Derek.

In Iceland, having connections will help you manage, and this is what Student Refugees is all about.

The initiative receives praise from UNHCRs Integration Officer in the Nordic and Baltic Countries, Karolis Zibas:

Access to education is an essential tool to ensure that refugees again become owners of their own future. Student Refugees not only provides young refugees in Iceland with that helping hand they might need; they are also offering them an important social network in their new community.

During COVID-19, as with so much else, Student Refugees activities have been a bit on hold. The network has been connecting via Facebook and emails, but in early Spring, Student Refugees could again start hosting their open application cafes and connect refugees with volunteers.

According to Erla Gudbjorg Hallgrimsdottir, international officer at LIS and part of Student Refugees, the initiative has so far supported around 50 asylum-seekers and refugees in Iceland. They are also providing information to others who are reaching out on behalf of refugees who might struggle with lost documents or questions on how the system works.

Currently, they are working to make the programme more sustainable and less dependent on the Student Union who changes its board on a yearly basis, so that the support to young refugees in Iceland is sure to continue year after year.

You want people to be educated. Then they will be better prepared to participate in society, and they can realize their own potential, says Erla.

For Afghan refugee Sayed Khanoghli, the plan is to graduate high school in the summer of 2023, and he hopes this will then help him pursue university and build his future in Iceland.

Its not easy having left your country for safety reasons, and some people make you feel like you dont belong, but Im really trying to become part of society. Im not completely fluent in Icelandic yet, but Im getting there, and after my graduation I will have so many opportunities, says Sayed who is also chairing the youth branch of Amnesty and working part-time to help provide for himself.

I hope one day I can become a citizen. I really love this country, and I have a lot of friends here.

Derek Allen, president of National Student Union LIS talks about the importance of having connections in Iceland.  UNHCR/Elisabeth Haslund 20-year old Sayed who came to Iceland. was recognized as a refugee in 2018.  UNHCR/Elisabeth Haslund According to Erla Gudbjorg Hallgrimsdottir, international officer at LIS and part of Student Refugees, the initiative has so far supported around 50 asylum-seekers and refugees in Iceland.  UNHCR/Elisabeth Haslund

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Vasco Hamisi is hard at work checking on the solar panels at Okapi Green Energy Limited, in northwestern Kenyas Kakuma refugee camp. The Congolese refugee is the brains behind this outfit, which provides clean energy to 200 businesses inside and outside the camp, as well as many refugee households.

I decided to go into green energy because when I came here, we were really struggling to get light. If you had a torch you would have to buy new batteries every week, he says. When I wake up every day, I feel that I need to make a positive contribution to the community that I'm living in.

He arrived in Kakuma 12 years ago after fleeing fighting in his hometown in the Democratic Republic of Congo. He initially started a community-based organization to help find solutions to the camps energy needs. He later set up Okapi Green Energy as a private company and in 2017 received US$28,000 from several international donors, including Energy for Impact UK and EDP, Portugal, to set up a 20-kilowatt solar mini-grid.

Bitisho Tusambe, a Congolese refugee and mother of three, runs a shop that offers printing and photography services and sells mobile phone accessories. Her customers used to get frustrated when the electricity was continually cut off. She is pleased to now have constant and reliable energy through the Okapi mini-grid, which is located a few metres from her shop.

I have now bought a refrigerator. I sell cold drinks and water. I also make fresh mango juice to sell. I am grateful to have access to electricity, she says.

Only 1 per cent of over 200,000 refugees in the camp and the adjacent Kalobeyei settlement have access to electricity through the main power grid. The rest have to rely on expensive, unstable and unreliable alternative sources.

According to a 2019 report by a coalition of smart energy stakeholders dubbed MAKE Change, around 30 informal diesel mini-grid operators serve households and businesses within the camps. The operators sell power for just a few hours a day, charging high tariffs, often with sub-standard wiring. Most households pay a minimum of US$5 to US$30 per month, with no meters to measure consumption accurately.

Bitisho Tusambe's printing and photography business is among 200 businesses and households connected to the Okapi solar mini-grid in Kakuma camp.  UNHCR/Samuel Otieno

Vasco cleans the solar panels that power his mini-grid business at Kakuma camp.  UNHCR/Samuel Otieno

An aerial view of Okapi Green Energy Limited, which harnesses sunlight to provide reliable and affordable energy to businesses and homes inside and outside Kakuma camp.  UNHCR/Samuel Otieno

Although Okapis solar mini-grid is currently the only clean energy option in Kakuma, in nearby Kalobeyei, 60-kilowatt solar mini-grids, installed by UNHCR partner, German Development Agency (GIZ), provide energy to four schools, two hospitals, a UNHCR field office, a training workshop, and hundreds of small businesses and homes.

Improving access to clean and sustainable energy sources is a key priority for the UN Refugee Agency, UNHCR, in Kenya and in many other countries hosting refugees in regions where energy is in short supply or comes at a significant cost to the local environment. UNHCRs Global Strategy for Sustainable Energy focuses on improving refugees protection and well-being while reducing the environmental impact of refugee operations through a transition to clean energy solutions.

Steps are already being made in this direction. With donor support, UNHCR and partners have installed 13 new solarized boreholes and fitted two health facilities with solar systems in Kakuma and Kalobeyei.

More support is also needed for refugee-owned businesses like Okapi to supply clean energy to more refugee households.

"Any time of day you need clean energy, you should have it."

Vasco is glad to be able to contribute towards clean energy solutions in the camp, where most refugee families cannot afford to light their houses at night.

"Solar energy will help refugees save money and use it for other pressing needs, he says, explaining that instead of paying US$15 for unreliable power, refugees now only pay half that amount for clean energy.

He believes the Okapi project can be replicated in different areas of Kakuma and beyond, and provide much-needed jobs. Currently, the organization employs 10 staff, most of them refugees.

Any time of day you need energy, you should have it, he says.


By Trend





Romania believes in the potential of increasing the trade relations with Georgia, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Romania told Trend.

According to the source, the commercial exchange between Romania and Georgia in 2021 reached $230 million, which is an increase of 105.5 percent, compared to 2020. Meanwhile, exports increased by 87 percent, and imports - by 219.4 percent.

"These figures show the potential of the two economies and the significant prospects for diversification," the ministry said.

Romanias strategy is aimed at making efforts to fully tap the existing potential for stronger economic cooperation with Georgia.

In this respect, the Black Sea provides unique opportunities not only for the development of bilateral projects but also for the deepening of our economic relations with other countries in the region, the source noted.

"We are convinced that increased trade exchanges, mobility and people-to-people contacts will promote regional economic stability, social well-being and open up real business opportunities," the ministry said.
Europe has to grow out of the mindset that its problems are worlds problems, but worlds problems arent Europes problems. Today linkages are being made between China & India and what is happening in Ukraine. Come on guys, China & India happened way before Ukraine. Its not a clever argument, Jaishankar said.

On being asked about if India would join the US-led axis or China as another potential axis in the world, Dr Jaishankar said, Dont think its necessary for India to join any axis. India is entitled to make its own choices which will be a balance of its values & interests.

He further reiterated that India is perfectly capable of handling the situation with China. He said, If I get a global understanding & support it will be of help. But this idea that I do a transaction, I come in one conflict, because it will help in another conflict, that is not how the world works.

Referring to the war between Russia and Ukraine and India not aligning either side, he emphasised that Indias foreign policy is not on the fence just because its policies may not be acceptable to other countries. He said, I am not sitting on the fence just because I dont agree with you. It means I am sitting on my ground. My ground is actually.. what are the big challenges, climate change, terrorism

When questioned if Indias purchase of Russian oil is financing the ongoing conflict, Jaishankar responded, Tell me buying Russian gas is not funding the war? Its only Indian money that funds, its not gas coming to Europe that funds. Lets be a little even-handed out here.

Pointing out and slamming the hypocrisy of the west over the issue, Jaishankar further said, Look the whole narrative, it has gone up 9 times, it has gone up from a very low baseif countries from the West, Europe, US are so concerned why dont they allow Iranian oil to come to the market, why dont they allow Venezuelan oil to come to the market.

Dr Jaishankar also denied any truth in the report by the Wall Street Journal that India is readying for the transhipment of Russian oil to bypass sanctions. When asked by the Interviewer that if WSJ is inaccurate, Dr Jaishankar replied, Politely, yes. I can say less politely.

The WSJ report had claimed that India has emerged as a key hub for trade of Russian oil, claiming that Indian refinery companies are buying cheap Russian oil and selling it in international market after refining on ship to ship basis, hiding the origin of the crude. The report had even claimed that Reliance chartered a tanker to transport alkylate from Sikka port on April 21, and on May 22 the cargo was unloaded in New York. Quoting an analyst, the report claimed that the company refined the product in India and sold in US, adding that other Indian oil companies are also doing the same. It does look like theres a trade where Russian crude is refined in India and then some of it is sold to the US, it had said.

However, Indian refinery companies had already rejected the claims, saying it was a hit job on on successful Indian refining industry. They also pointed out theres no sanction on Russian oil and gas.

Dr Jaishankar also debunked all claims about the wheat export ban. He said, I dont think people understand, because they are not tracking the trade. We have been exporting wheat but then we saw run on our wheat, large part by international traders based in Singapore and UAE.

He said that low-income countries were being squeezed out. What we saw is that low-income countries were being squeezed out. It was being stocked. Our goodwill was used for speculation. We will not give speculators open access to the Indian market like what we saw happening with vaccines, we dont want to see for wheat. Which is rich people getting vaccinated, Dr Jaishankar mentioned, adding that India has exported wheat to 23 countries this year.

OpIndia Staffhttps://www.opindia.com
Scientists discovered the world's largest plant, a seagrass that covers more than 200 square kilometers (77 square miles), just over three times the size of Manhattan. The single seagrass Posidonia australis, thought to be more than 4,500 years old, lives in the shallow waters of Western Australia's Shark Bay, a World Heritage Site. From the University of Western Australia:

Evolutionary biologist Dr Elizabeth Sinclair, from UWA's School of Biological Sciences and the UWA Oceans Institute, is a senior author of the study and said the project began when researchers wanted to understand how genetically diverse the seagrass meadows in Shark Bay were, and which plants should be collected for seagrass restoration.

"We often get asked how many different plants are growing in seagrass meadows and this time we used genetic tools to answer it," Dr Sinclair said.

UWA student researcher Jane Edgeloe, lead author of the study, said the team sampled seagrass shoots from across Shark Bay's variable environments and generated a 'fingerprint' using 18,000 genetic markers.

"The answer blew us away  there was just one!" Ms Edgeloe said. "That's it, just one plant has expanded over 180km in Shark Bay, making it the largest known plant on earth.



"The existing 200km2 of ribbon weed meadows appear to have expanded from a single, colonising seedling."
(@FahadShabbir)

SUVA, June 5 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 5th Jun, 2022 ) --::Fijians are being urged to remain vigilant as the Health Ministry has recorded 59 more new cases of COVID-19 , raising the total number of cases to 158 cases this week.

According to the Fijivillage news website on Friday, 24 cases were recorded on Tuesday, 16 cases were recorded on Wednesday and 19 cases were recorded in the 24-hour period ending Thursday.

Fiji's Permanent Secretary for Health James Fong said 26 cases were from the central part of the nation, 29 in the western part and four cases in the north.

Fong said there were currently 158 active cases of COVID-19 in the island nation.

The Health Ministry confirmed that there have been no new deaths due to COVID-19 since the last update.

Currently, 129,510 people in Fiji have so far received booster doses and this represents 29.5 percent of those eligible for a booster dose.
(@ChaudhryMAli88)

LAHORE, Jun 5 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 5th Jun, 2022 ) :Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday said that nations were not formed on the basis of construction of magnificent buildings, but hard work, integrity and sacrifices coupled with use of latest knowledge and technology always evolved them.

Addressing an inauguration ceremony of Indus hospital, the prime minister also stressed upon the need for initiation of a grand dialogue by all the stakeholders over vital sectors of the economy if they wanted to move ahead on the path of progress and prosperity.

He said that a consensus should be developed over the national economy in such a manner that it should not be disturbed with change of governments.

He opined that there were certain sectors of the economy like IT and industrialization through which the country could move ahead.

The prime minister underlined that we should think above ourselves and their personal likes and dislikes and accord top priority to the progress and prosperity of the nation.

The prime minister maintained that a country could not survive on debts.

He regretted that Pakistan should have been in the forefront of the Islamic world in terms of progress and development.

Comparing Pakistan's export volume with neighbouring Bangladesh, he said its annual exports now touched $40 billion mark while Pakistan had an export value of$ 27-28 billion annually.

The prime minister referring to the global economic meltdown said that they had increased the petroleum prices with a heavy heart.

He also termed the previous government's decision of decreasing petroleum prices in the month of March as a ploy, as they had not extended any kind of relief to the masses during their rule.

The prime minister further assured that they would try their best to provide relief to the poor and said that the government was looking to ease out impacts of price hike by extending financial relief to over 7 crore population.

He stressed that they had to stand on their feet with sheer qualities of hard work, sacrifices, unity and proper planning.

About load-shedding, the prime minister said that he had chaired an emergency meeting and directed for a mechanism to decrease its duration. There should be no more than two hours of load-shedding, he added.

He said the previous government of PTI could not make arrangements for the purchase of oil and gas as these two components were mainly used for producing power and now these had been priced very high in the global market.

He also hinted to announce further austerity measures shortly in the face of economic challenges.

The prime minister said that he was ready to be held accountable for his two and half months rule but what about the previous rulers who had governed the country in the last three and half years.

He expressed the optimism that with unity and hard work, the country would rise to the horizon and no one would be able to match its speed.

The prime minister, while lauding the efforts of the Indus hospital administration and founders, urged the philanthropists to come forward and donate generously for alleviation of the sufferings of the poor and deserving people in the field of health and education.

He said with such noble deeds, they could earn the blessings of this mundane world and the world hereafter.

The prime minister said that during his tenure as chief minister of Punjab, they had set up and upgraded various hospitals in the province.

He stressed the need for enhanced network of health facilities across the country and referred to Recep Tayyip Erdogan 250-bed state-of-the-art hospital in Muzaffargarh which was set up during 2010 floods by the Turkish government.

He also appreciated Iqbal Kitchi, Mian Javed Bhatti, Mian Muhammad Ahsan and others for their donations which would be spent for serving humanity.

The prime minister said during his tenure as chief minister, he had activated Punjab Endowment Fund with deposit of 20 billion rupees and supported a large number of orphan children with its fund.

He also lauded the contribution of Dr Amjad Saqib and said if good and generous people wanted to extend support to the government in the provision of relief to the masses in the health sector, they could be encouraged and should not be politically targeted.

He regretted that the previous government had closed the endowment fund and CM self-employment scheme in the province and assured Dr. Amjad that such like schemes would be revived soon.

The prime minister said they had also set up PKLI hospital at worth Rs20 billion which became a world-renowned hospital, but the previous government of PTI had politicized it and caused immense damage. The PTI government had destroyed all departments and entities, he added.

Earlier, the prime minister took round of the different sections of the hospital and interacted with the staff and patients.
(@ChaudhryMAli88)

ISLAMABAD, Jun 5 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 5th Jun, 2022 ) :The World Environment Day was celebrated in Pakistan and across the globe on Sunday to highlight the environmental challenges and raise awareness on how the world community could cope with the climate changing problems.

The theme of the World Environment Day 2022 was "Only One Earth" which was observed by millions of people with a focus on living sustainability in harmony with nature.

President Dr. Arif Alvi in his message on the occasion said the adverse impacts of climate change needed to be reversed by adopting sustainable consumption practices, protecting natural water resources, ensuring fertile soil and taking collective transformative action on a global scale by developing partnerships with all concerned authorities to save our planet Earth.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called on global powers for a united action to address multifaceted challenge of climate change on World Environment Day.

"It is critical that developing countries are provided with climate financing to fight environmental hazards," the prime minister said.

Federal Minister for Climate Change Sherry Rehman said that the effects of climate change will be detrimental to the future of the country and coming generations without taking necessary mitigation measures."Every Pakistani citizen has to play his role for the protection of environment and protection of his mother earth. A clean and healthy environment is possible only when every citizen fulfills his nation and moral responsibility," she said.

Punjab Governor Muhammad Baligh-ur-Rehman said the environmental pollution and global warming was a challenge for the whole world including Pakistan.

"Government has recently abolished sales tax on solar panels as we need to move towards renewable energy to reduce global warming," he said.

Ministry of Maritime Affairs celebrated World Environment Day by planting mangroves at Mai Kolachi, Karachi.

Every year on 5th of June, Karachi Port Trust (KPT) on behalf of Ministry of Maritime Affairs, organize Mangroves Plantation to encourage awareness for the protection of the environment.

Foreign Office Spokesperson said Pakistan was fully committed to take ambitious actions to address climate change and environmental hazards.

"Going forward, we reaffirm our resolve in taking action on combating climate change, protecting biological diversity, and reversing ecosystem degradation," the spokesperson said in connection with the observance of World Environment Day.

"Women and children disproportionately and with a greater frequency are affected through heat waves, droughts, floods, air pollution, food scarcity, disease and disasters," spokesperson for Ministry of Climate Change Muhammad Saleem said.

Pakistan was one of the top ten countries badly affected by the adverse impacts of climate change. He said that climate change was a planetary phenomenon that would impact all countries, but its effects were being shaped by pervasive and entrenched gender inequality, he remarked.
BEIJING (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 05th June, 2022) China's Shenzhou 14 spaceship with three crew members on board successfully took off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center (JSLC) on Sunday, according to live coverage from the state-owned broadcaster China Central Television.

The Long March 2F carried rocket with the Shenzhou 14 spacecraft blasted off on schedule, at 10:44 Beijing time on Sunday (02:44 GMT).

About 577 seconds after the launch, the Shenzhou 14 spacecraft separated from the carrier rocket and entered the designated orbit; the crew are doing well, China Central Television said, adding that the launch is officially considered successful.

Shenzhou 14 is carrying cosmonauts Chen Dong, Cai Xuzhe and Liu Yang to the Tiangong Space Station.

In April, China's Manned Space Engineering Office said that the country had scheduled six space missions by the end of 2022 to complete the construction of the national space station Tiangong.
MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 05th June, 2022) UK Queen Elizabeth II on Sunday participated in the celebration of the 70th, platinum anniversary of her reign, walking on a balcony of Buckingham Palace, as broadcast by the Royal Family Channel.

The queen appeared in public, accompanied by Prince Charles, Prince William and other members of the royal family. She stood on the balcony for several minutes to the sound of the national anthem of the United Kingdom. The monarch smiled and waved to spectators.

"I have been humbled and deeply touched that so many people have taken to the streets to celebrate my Platinum Jubilee," the queen wrote on Twitter.

On Friday, the monarch was unable to attend a solemn service in St. Paul's Cathedral due to health problems. Later in that day, Buckingham Palace announced that the queen would also miss the Epsom Downs Racecourse on Saturday.

Elizabeth II, who turned 96 in 2022, is the first British monarch celebrating a platinum jubilee. Official birthdays of British monarchs are always celebrated in summer, regardless of their actual time of birth. Various events are held throughout the country during a year, culminating in a four-day weekend from June 2-5.
CHISINAU (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 05th June, 2022) Turkey detained a Moldovan passenger plane at Antalya airport, Air Moldova said in a statement.

The airline company confirmed on Saturday the detention of it's plane and specified that "Turkish provider referred to the alleged contractual debts," however the debt has already been settled.

"According to the accounting data, which was adopted following the privatization of CA "Air Moldova," after internal audits, all invoices to the supplier were paid. At the moment, Air Moldova has no debts to the Turkish provider," the airline said on social media.

The airline apologized to the passengers, who spent from 9 to 14 hours at the Antalya airport and noted that the problem is being addressed.

"One of the flights to Antalya has already departed, the next ones will depart soon. Air Moldova apologizes to passengers affected by this situation," the statement read.

According to the online schedule at the Chisinau International Airport website, five Air Moldova flights from Antalya have been canceled.

"The Air Moldova team is making every effort to solve the problem. Due to the incident, there was a disruption in the flight schedule. Many passengers were redirected to flights of other airlines, they will return home on Sunday," the statement read.

According to Moldovan media, Air Moldova was privatized in 2018 by Civil Aviation Group, founded by two citizens of Moldova and a Romanian airline, Blue Air. However, the latter withdrew from the deal less than a year after the privatization and about 50% of the shares were transferred to the Latvian company Dzintars Pomers.

The amount of the transaction exceeded 1.2 billion Moldovan lei ($62.9 million), of which 50 million lei were transferred to the state budget, while the rest was Air Moldova's debts, which the investor committed to pay within three years.

Later in the day, Air Moldova told Sputnik that the detained plane departed for Chisinau.

"The Airbus A321 aircraft today returns to Chisinau from Antalya. The flight from Antalya has already departed and will soon land in the Moldovan capital. Flights to and from Antalya will be resumed and adjusted in accordance with the new flight schedule," the airline said.

The airline noted that some of the passengers arrived in Moldova earlier in the day by flights of other airlines. The A319 flight will arrive in Chisinau on Monday.
(@FahadShabbir)

CHISINAU (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 05th June, 2022) Turkey detained a Moldovan passenger plane at Antalya airport, Air Moldova said in a statement.

The airline company confirmed on Saturday the detention of it's plane and specified that "Turkish provider referred to the alleged contractual debts," however the debt has already been settled.

"According to the accounting data, which was adopted following the privatization of CA "Air Moldova," after internal audits, all invoices to the supplier were paid. At the moment, Air Moldova has no debts to the Turkish provider," the airline said on social media.

The airline apologized to the passengers, who spent from 9 to 14 hours at the Antalya airport and noted that the problem is being addressed.

"One of the flights to Antalya has already departed, the next ones will depart soon. Air Moldova apologizes to passengers affected by this situation," the statement read.

According to the online schedule at the Chisinau International Airport website, five Air Moldova flights from Antalya have been canceled.

"The Air Moldova team is making every effort to solve the problem. Due to the incident, there was a disruption in the flight schedule. Many passengers were redirected to flights of other airlines, they will return home on Sunday," the statement read.

According to Moldovan media, Air Moldova was privatized in 2018 by Civil Aviation Group, founded by two citizens of Moldova and a Romanian airline, Blue Air. However, the latter withdrew from the deal less than a year after the privatization and about 50% of the shares were transferred to the Latvian company Dzintars Pomers.

The amount of the transaction exceeded 1.2 billion Moldovan lei ($62.9 million), of which 50 million lei were transferred to the state budget, while the rest was Air Moldova's debts, which the investor committed to pay within three years.
Pope Francis expresses his condolences for the victims of a terror attack on a Catholic Church in Nigerias southwestern Ondo State which killed over 50 people, including several children.

By Devin Watkins & Salvatore Cernuzio

As the Church celebrated Pentecost Sunday, gunmen entered St. Francis Xavier Church in Owo, Nigeria and opened fire on worshippers.

Initial reports suggest the attackers also set off explosives during the attack in Ondo State.

In response, Pope Francis expressed his solidarity with the victims and sent his prayers.

The Pope prays for the victims and for the country, painfully attacked at a time of celebration, and he entrusts everyone to the Lord, that God might send His Spirit to console them, said Matteo Bruni, the Director of the Holy See Press Office, on Sunday.

Dozens dead and wounded

Local doctors told Reuters news agency that at least 50 people were killed in the attack.

Dozens of others were wounded and taken to hospitals in Owo. Doctors have appealed for blood donations on social media.

Bishops closeness

Bishop Jude Ayodeji Arogundade, of the Diocese of Ondo, expressed his closeness to the victims and their families, according to Fr. Augustine Ikwu, the Communications Director for the diocese.

Fr. Ikwu said fears are rising that many more people may die from their wounds, and lamented that the Church had been "violated.

He denied initial reports on social media that the attackers had kidnapped the priest and other members of the congregation.

All the priests in the parish are safe and none was kidnapped, said Fr. Ikwu in a press release. "The Bishop of the Diocese is also with them at this trying time. He added that the Bishop also urges Catholics to remain calm, be law abiding, and pray for peace and normalcy to return to our commuity, state, and country.

Prayers for peace

Fr. Ikwu said the identity of the attackers remains unknown, but that Nigerian security forces have been deployed in the area surrounding the church in Owo.

He also invoked Gods help to restore peace and tranquility in the country.

We turn to God to console the families of those whose lives were lost in this distressing incident, and pray for the dparted souls to rest in peace, he said.

President Buharis response

Meanwhile, Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari issued a statement in response to the attack.

He expressed condolences for the families of the victims, and ordered emergency agencies to assist the injured.

No matter what, this country shall never give in to evil and wicked people, and darkness will never overcome light. Nigeria will eventually win, read the Presidents statement.
The annual Eurasian Economic Forum has taken place in Bishkek, the capital city of Kyrgyzstan. This Years Forum gained significant international interest and impact as Russias pivot to Asia and Supply Chain movements placed Central Asia in the spotlight.

By Linda Bordoni

In a global perspective, this years Eurasian Economic Forum has taken on far greater significance due to the impact of the Russia-Ukraine war and the stringent sanctions imposed on the Kremlin in retaliation for its invasion of its neighbour.

The Economic Forum is a top-level event of the Eurasian Economic Union that concentrates on regional economic and commercial issues. Member states include Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, - where the summit was held this year - and Russia.

Era of global changes

The chosen theme: Eurasian Economic Integration in the era of Global Changes: New Opportunities for Investments.

Addressing the Forum the Russian President said the development of Eurasian integration has no connection to current developments or market conditions pointing out that it was established many years ago; however, he went on to decry the sanctions imposed on his country saying that their effects are not limited to Russia, or even China, and expressed his opinion that the world is witnessing a global process which sees a growing number of countries that want to and will pursue an independent policy.

Putin was not included in the World Economic Forum that took place in Davos, Switzerland from 22 to 26 May, the closing day of which coincided with the Kryrgyzstan event.

Strategy for the coming years

Several discussion sessions were held within the framework: Strategy  2025: Forming a Vision of the EAEU Future, New Areas and Directions of Cooperation.

Talks focused on the further liberalisation and commonality of trade, tariffs and customs regulations between each of the member states and countries with which the EAEU has Free Trade Agreements. One of the issues that were pinpointed was the fact that the bloc has suffered in the past from a lack of coordination in trade, quality and standardisation issues.

The sessions dedicated to Projecting Eurasianism Into the Future focused on a more abstract view of what Eurasianism really means. Is it Central Asia? Does it include the entire landmass from China to the European Union?  and finally: Interaction between the EAEU and International Partners and how to develop it.
Part of Pride Month is learning about historical events and how they have shaped the lives and experiences of LGBTQ communities and influenced action and activism in their wake. One such event that heavily impacted LGBTQ communities in New Orleans that should be more widely known is the arson fire at the popular gay bar, the UpStairs Lounge, in New Orleans' French Quarter. Almost 50 years ago, on June 24, 1973, an arsonist set flame to the UpStairs Lounge and started a fire that killed 32 people either that night or in the immediate aftermath because of burns or injuries sustained. Victims were trapped inside the bar and couldn't easily escape through the windows (because they had safety bars) or out through the rooftop (because once the back door slammed shut, it locked and couldn't be opened). Some of the victims of the arson were never identified. Others included members of the New Orleans chapter of the Metropolitan Community Church (the first gay church in America), as well as two MCC clergy. The MCC regularly used the Lounge to hold church services because their former church had been set on fire by arsonists several times in the previous few years.

As horrifying as the actual fire was, the aftermath was utterly tragic as well. Matt Hanes, in a recent article from VeryLocal.com, explains the utter callousness with which the tragedy, the victims, their families, and their supporters were treated:

Reverend William P. Richardson of St. George's Episcopal Church was one leader who agreed to hold a small prayer service. He was rebuked the next day by the Episcopal bishop of New Orleans, Iveson B. Noland, who received more than 100 complaints from parishioners. Hate mail filled Richardon's mailbox. The day after the fire, Major Henry Morris, New Orleans' chief of detectives, explained to the States-Item how difficult identification will be due to the extensive burns victims suffered. Still, he couldn't resist taking a dig at the victims. "We don't even know if these papers belonged to the people we found them on," Morris said. "Some thieves hung out there and you know this was a queer bar."

In the almost 50 years since this event activists and allies have been instrumental in changing cultural norms through forwarding LGBTQ+ lived experiences, and securing legislation that protects LGBTQ+ rights, although these protections are currently very much under attack. It's important to place these current successes and struggles in historical context, and to remember both how far the movement has come, and how much more work needs to be done.

If you want to learn more about the UpStairs Lounge arson attack, the story has been told in numerous ways in the last decade or so, through art exhibits, books, documentaries, dance performances, and musicals. Here are a few resources to check out:

The musical Upstairs (2013), created by playwright and composer Wayne Self, which debuted in New Orleans on the 40th anniversary of the event. A revival of the musical in New Orleans is currently in the works.

The book The Up Stairs Lounge Arson: Thirty-two Deaths in a New Orleans Gay Bar, June 24, 1973 (2014), which was selected as one of the 2015 Books of the Year by the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities and which you can buy from McFarland books.

The documentary Upstairs Inferno (2015), directed by Robert Camina, which you can watch on Amazon. The film is narrated by New Orleans native Christopher Rice (son of novelist Anne Rice).
Analysts say Australias relationship with China is unlikely to improve under the new left-wing government in Canberra, although they say a decision by Pacific Island nations to resist a security pact with Beijing has signaled a strategic shift in regional dynamics for Canberra and the Quad, an informal grouping of the U.S., Japan, India and Australia.

Some supporters in Australia of better relations with China were initially buoyed by the May 21 Australian Labor Party victory that made Anthony Albanese prime minister. However, while Bart Edes, professor of practice at McGill University Montreal said more diplomacy with China is likely, as is less bombastic messaging and provocation, fundamentally the policy is not really going to change.

Australia has been vocal in its criticism of Chinas handling of Taiwan, Hong Kong, ethnic Uyghurs, the disputed South China Sea, and Beijings alleged meddling in Australias political process, which resulted in laws passed in 2018 targeting foreign interference.

Relations reached a new low in April 2021 when then-Prime Minister Scott Morrison proposed an independent international inquiry into the COVID-19 outbreak, prompting China to impose sanctions on the imports of Australian goods.

I dont think an election will really reverse the overall direction in the Australia-China relationship, Hunter Marsten, a researcher with Australia National University told VOA. I dont think they have improved already. Its hard to say whether they are going to improve.

Immediately after his victory, Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong flew to Tokyo and reaffirmed Australias commitment to the Quad, with leaders of India, Japan, and the United States.

Wong then flew to Fiji, where her Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, had hoped to sign a trade and security pact with 10 Pacific islands nations whose leaders have long complained of being ignored by longstanding allies, the United States, Australia and New Zealand.

The main issue remains a lack of progress on climate change. Fijian Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama tweeted: Our greatest concern isnt geopolitics  its climate change, adding he had a wonderful meeting with Wong.

Marsten said Australia was very much relieved that the security deal  seen as a bid by Beijing to wrest control of the Pacific region  had faltered after island leaders failed to reach a consensus, saying the deal lacked transparency and that it risked heightening political tensions.

There was some expectation that the deal would fail to materialize, he said. The idea you can lump all the Pacific islands together into just sort of one broad community, to work with as a single partner, a cohesive unit to strike deals with, was unrealistic.

Australia has also emphasized traditional ties, particularly with the United States, dating back to World War II, when the Pacific Islands were subjected to some of the wars heaviest fighting.

Penny Wongs trip to Fiji shows the new government wants to take seriously the views of Pacific Islands exactly to be a more trustworthy partner  which can be interpreted as a smarter form of competition with Beijing, Marsten said, ahead of Wongs additional visits to Samoa and Tonga.

He said Albaneses participation in the Quad meeting indicated a great deal of continuity in backing U.S. President Joe Biden and Morrison's conservative defense policies, including the AUKUS deal enabling Australia to acquire nuclear submarines, another thorn in Chinas side.

Some of those structural fault lines are still in place, Marsten said, regarding AUKUS and Australias difficult relationship with China.

I think there are some fundamental divisions at play here, partly the economic coercion and some of the legislation dating back to Chinese influence in Australias politics from 2018.

Gavin Greenwood, an analyst with Hong Kong-based A2 Global Risk, said the Pacific Islands had been ignored by larger regional players, especially regarding climate change and their concerns over rising sea levels.

But by engaging China, initially with a security pact with the Solomon Islands announced in April, the Pacific Islands were prompting a proxy fight with the interests of the U.S., Taiwan, Japan, France and the United Kingdom also at stake.

The Aussies, as always, are kind of stuck in the middle, Greenwood said, adding that a proxy fight for influence would escalate, directed by soft power financial inducements, such as education and scholarships, and no-strings direct aid.

The ability of the U.S. and Australia and indeed Taiwan to recalibrate relationships with the Pacific Islands is immense and Im sure its ongoing and Im sure it's being done quietly, below the radar and will continue to do so, he said.

Albanese campaigned on pushing climate change to the top of the political agenda while reengaging the Pacific Islands and countering the initial security deal announced in April between Beijing and the Solomon Islands, which embarrassed the Morrison government.

Being caught on the back foot with the Solomon Islands deal is just one of the latest examples of Canberras awakening to the need for a change in its Pacific Islands strategy, Marsten said.

But at the end of the day, its all about Beijing, and Edes said there were limitations as to how much the relationship between Australia and China could be improved given the fundamental differences, whether Australia is led by the conservative Liberal Party or the ALP.

The short story is I see this government trying to put kind of a floor under the relationship, so rescuing it from a free fall, that started about two years ago when Morrison called for this study of the origins of COVID and that (annoyed) Beijing, he said.
Albanias parliament on Saturday elected a top military official as the countrys new president after no candidates were nominated in three rounds of voting.

General-Major Bajram Begaj won the post after the 140-seat Parliament voted 78 in favor, four against and one abstained.The governing left-wing Socialist Party nominated and voted for Begaj, 55, after failing to reach a compromise with the opposition on a candidate to replace President Ilir Meta, and no independent candidate was nominated.

Most of the opposition boycotted the voting.

Begaj is post-communist Albanias eighth president and the third from the military ranks. The five-year presidency has a largely ceremonial role and the chosen candidate is expected to stand above partisan divisions. The president holds some authority over the judiciary and the armed forces and is limited to two terms.

Begaj was elected among six candidates, according to Socialists' leader and Prime Minister Edi Rama, adding that no candidates of the governing majority were taken into consideration.

We gave Albania a normal president, an indisputable personality in his integrity, humanity and commitment for the country and its people, Rama said.

Begaj was released from his army post in a decree from the president, who was on a visit Saturday to Turkey. Meta, who clashed regularly with the government, congratulated the new president. A handover ceremony is planned for July 24.

Begaj has been the armys chief-of-staff since July 2020. Before that, he held several army posts, including ones in public and military hospitals, and trained in the U.S. on strategic medical leadership and defense management.

The European Union, the United States and other Western countries congratulated Begaj in his new post.

We look forward to working together for a prosperous, secure and solid EU-#Albania relationship, as members of one European family, tweeted EUs foreign policy chief Josep Borrell.
As soon as they had finished burying a veteran colonel killed by Russian shelling, the cemetery workers readied the next grave. Inevitably, given how quickly death is felling Ukrainian troops on the front lines, it won't be empty for long.

Col. Oleksandr Makhachek left behind a widow, Elena, and their daughters Olena and Myroslava-Oleksandra. In the first 100 days of war, his grave was the 40th dug in the military cemetery in Zhytomyr, 140 kilometers west of the capital, Kyiv.

He was killed May 30 in the Luhansk region of eastern Ukraine where the fighting is raging. Nearby, the burial notice on the also freshly dug grave of Viacheslav Dvornitskyi says he died May 27. Other graves also showed soldiers killed within days of each other  on May 10, 9, 7 and 5. And this is just one cemetery, in just one of Ukraine's cities, towns and villages laying soldiers to rest.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said this week that Ukraine is now losing 60-100 soldiers each day in combat. By way of comparison, just short of 50 American soldiers died per day on average in 1968 during the Vietnam War's deadliest year for U.S. forces.

Among the comrades-in-arms who paid respects to the 49-year-old Makhachek at his funeral Friday was Gen. Viktor Muzhenko, the Ukrainian Armed Forces' chief of general staff until 2019. He warned that losses could worsen.

"This is one of the critical moments in the war, but it is not the peak," Muzhenko told The Associated Press. "This is the most significant conflict in Europe since World War II. That explains why the losses are so great. In order to reduce losses, Ukraine now needs powerful weapons that match or even surpass Russian weaponry. This would enable Ukraine to respond in kind."

Concentrations of Russian artillery are causing many of the casualties in the eastern regions that Moscow has focused on since its initial invasion launched Feb. 24 failed to take Kyiv.

Retired Lt. Gen. Ben Hodges, the former commanding general of U.S. Army forces in Europe, described the Russian strategy as a "medieval attrition approach" and said that until Ukraine gets promised deliveries of U.S., British and other weapons to destroy and disrupt Russian batteries, "these kinds of casualties are going to continue."

"This battlefield is so much more lethal than what we all became accustomed to over the 20 years of Iraq and Afghanistan, where we didn't have numbers like this," he said in an AP phone interview.

"That level of attrition would include leaders, sergeants," he added. "They are a lot of the brunt of casualties because they are the more exposed, constantly moving around trying to do things."

Makhachek, a military engineer, led a detachment that laid minefields and other defenses, said Col. Ruslan Shutov, who attended the funeral of his friend of more than 30 years.

"Once the shelling began, he and a group hid in a shelter. There were four people in his group, and he told them to hide in the dugout. He hid in another. Unfortunately, an artillery shell hit the dugout where he was hiding."

Ukraine had about 250,000 men and women in uniform before the war and was in the process of adding another 100,000. The government hasn't said how many have died in more than 14 weeks of fighting.

Nobody really knows the number of Ukrainian civilians who have been killed or how many combatants have died on either side. Claims of casualties by government officials  who may sometimes exaggerate or lowball their figures for public relations reasons  are all but impossible to verify.

Western analysts estimate far higher Russian military casualties, in the many thousands. Still, as Ukraine's losses mount, the grim mathematics of war require that it find replacements. With a population of 43 million, it has manpower.

"The problem is recruiting, training and getting them on the front line," said retired U.S. Marine Col. Mark Cancian, a senior adviser at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington.

"If the war is now moving into a long-term attrition struggle, then you have to build systems to get replacements," he said. "This has been a difficult moment for every army in combat."

Muzhenko, the Ukrainian general, said Zelenskyy's admission of high casualties would further galvanize Ukrainian morale and that more Western weaponry would help turn the tide.

"The more Ukrainians know about what is happening at the front, the more the will to resist will grow," he said. "Yes, the losses are significant. But with the help of our allies, we can minimize and reduce them and move on to successful offensives. This will require powerful weapons."
A Royal Australian Air Force surveillance plane was intercepted by a Chinese fighter aircraft in the South China Sea region in May, Australia's defense department said Sunday.

The RAAF P-8 maritime surveillance aircraft was intercepted by a Chinese J-16 fighter during "routine maritime surveillance activity" in international airspace in the region on May 26, defense said in a statement.

"The intercept resulted in a dangerous maneuver which posed a safety threat to the P-8 aircraft and its crew," it said.

Defense said the Australian government had raised its concerns about the incident with the Chinese government.

China's embassy in Australia did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Defense Minister Richard Marles said the Chinese jet flew very close in front of the RAAF aircraft and released a "bundle of chaff" containing small pieces of aluminum that were ingested into the Australian aircraft's engine.

"Quite obviously this is very dangerous," Marles told ABC television.

Australia has previously joined the United States in stating that Chinas claims around contested islands in the South China Sea do not comply with international law.

Defense said for decades it had undertaken maritime surveillance in the region and "does so in accordance with international law, exercising the right to freedom of navigation and overflight in international waters and airspace."

Relations between Australia and China, major trading partners, have been strained recently over growing Chinese influence in the Pacific after China sought a regional security deal with Pacific Island nations.

Also in May, a Chinese intelligence ship was tracked off Australia's west coast within 50 nautical miles of a sensitive defense facility, which is used by Australian, U.S. and allied submarines.

In February, China and Australia traded barbs over an incident in which Australia said one of its maritime patrol aircraft detected a laser directed at it from a People's Liberation Army Navy vessel.
China on Sunday launched a rocket carrying three astronauts on a mission to complete construction on its new space station, the latest milestone in Beijing's drive to become a major space power.

The trio blasted off in a Long March-2F rocket at (0244 GMT) from the Jiuquan launch center in northwestern China's Gobi desert, said state broadcaster CCTV, with the team to spend six months expanding the Tiangong space station.

Tiangong, which means "heavenly palace," is expected to become fully operational by the end of the year.

China's heavily promoted space program has already seen the nation land a rover on Mars and send probes to the moon.

The Shenzhou-14 crew is tasked with "completing in-orbit assembly and construction of the space station," as well as "commissioning of equipment" and conducting scientific experiments, state-run CGTN said Saturday.

Led by air force pilot Chen Dong, 43, the three-person crew's main challenge will be connecting the station's two lab modules to the main body.

Dong, along with fellow pilots Liu Yang and Cai Xuzhe, will become the second crew to spend six months aboard the Tiangong after the last returned to Earth in April following 183 days on the space station.

Tiangong's core module entered orbit earlier last year and is expected to operate for at least a decade.

The completed station will be similar to the Soviet Mir station that orbited Earth from the 1980s until 2001.

Space ambitions

The world's second-largest economy has poured billions into its military-run space program, with hopes of having a permanently crewed space station by 2022 and eventually sending humans to the moon.

The country has made large strides in catching up with the United States and Russia, whose astronauts and cosmonauts have decades of experience in space exploration.

But under Chinese President Xi Jinping, the country's plans for its heavily promoted "space dream" have been put into overdrive.

In addition to a space station, Beijing is also planning to build a base on the moon, and the country's National Space Administration said it aims to launch a crewed lunar mission by 2029.

China has been excluded from the International Space Station since 2011, when the United States banned NASA from engaging with the country.

While China does not plan to use its space station for global cooperation on the scale of the ISS, Beijing has said it is open to foreign collaboration.

The ISS is due for retirement after 2024, although NASA has said it could remain functional until 2030.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov's visit to Serbia has been canceled after countries around Serbia closed their airspace to his aircraft, a senior foreign ministry source told the Interfax news agency on Sunday.

The source confirmed a Serbian media report that said Bulgaria, North Macedonia and Montenegro had closed their airspace to the plane that would have carried Moscow's top diplomat to Belgrade on Monday.

"Our diplomacy has yet to master teleportation," the source said.

There was no immediate comment from the Russian foreign ministry.

Serbia, which has close cultural ties with Russia, has fended off pressure to take sides over Russia's invasion of Ukraine and has not joined Western sanctions against Moscow.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Serbian counterpart, Aleksandar Vucic, agreed last month that Russia would continue supplying natural gas to Serbia, while other countries have been cut off for refusing to pay for Russian gas in rubles.
The death toll from the collapse of an Iranian building two weeks ago has risen to 41 after three more bodies were found, local authorities said Monday.

The 10-story Metropol building that was under construction in Abadan in southwestern Khuzestan province collapsed on May 23, sparking angry protests in solidarity with victims' families.

"The number of victims of the Metropol accident has risen to 41 after the discovery and identification of three more bodies," city governor Ehsan Abbaspour was quoted saying by the official IRNA news agency.

"Rescue teams are still trying to find more bodies under the rubble."

Iran's Vice President for Executive Affairs Solat Mortazavi was quoted as saying that "the remains of the building will be completely destroyed after removing the debris."

The disaster, one of Iran's deadliest in years, sparked a series of demonstrations across the country against authorities accused of corruption and incompetence.

The regional judiciary said it had arrested 13 people, including Abadan's mayor and two former mayors, accused of being "responsible" for the tragedy.

In 2017, the collapse in central Tehran of the Plasco Building, a 15-story shopping mall dating from the early 1960s, killed 22 people, including 16 firefighters.
WASHINGTON  Tension filled the House chamber on May 5, 1994. Lawmakers from both parties wanted to ban assault weapons, and lawmakers from both parties disagreed. And those who wanted to kill the proposed ban were ahead by one vote  until Rep. Jacobs changed his mind.

Flipping his vote from a "nay" to a "yea," Rep. Andrew Jacobs, an Indiana Democrat, paved the way for the bill's passage by a 216-214 vote. Thirty-eight Republicans, including the minority leader and two lawmakers who represented Western New York, voted for the gun ban. Seventy-seven Democrats, most of them from rural areas, opposed it.

Jacobs went on to win re-election that fall and left Congress when he chose to retire years later. So did Rep. Jack Quinn of Hamburg and Rep. Amo Houghton of Corning, two of the seven New York Republicans who voted for that assault weapons ban.

Nearly three decades later, Rep. Chris Jacobs, an Orchard Park Republican who is unrelated to the Indiana Democrat with the same last name, changed his mind on an assault weapons ban, too. Like his namesake, he flipped from a "nay" to a "yea"  but the similarity ended there. So, too, apparently, will his political career.

Chris Jacobs lost the backing of Republican leaders across his district. What's more, he proved how hard it is for lawmakers in this hyper-partisan era to buck their party even once and still survive.

Rep. Chris Jacobs withdraws from re-election bid amid gun control outcry Rep. Chris Jacobs, an Orchard Park Republican, said Friday that he was withdrawing as the GOP and Conservative candidate for Congress in the newly redrawn 23rd District, acknowledging that his newfound views on gun control place him at odds with the parties that endorsed him.

"I think we have a real problem structurally with our parties in that if you are not 100% loyal to the party orthodoxy, you are annihilated," Jacobs told The Buffalo News Friday while announcing that he was abandoning his bid for re-election in New York's newly redrawn 23rd District. "I mean, how many pro-life Democrats are there in Congress right now? There's one and he's fighting for his political life in Texas. So I think that it's very different on both sides from years ago, and I don't think that's a good thing."

Chris Jacobs' concern echoed across the political world this weekend, as observers from both parties marveled at how quickly his political career came undone just because he wanted to do something about guns.

"This is really sad," tweeted David Axelrod, the Democratic messaging guru who helped Barack Obama get elected president in 2008. "A @GOP Rep from the Buffalo-area, scene of one of the recent, gruesome mass shootings, entertains an assault weapons ban, and is promptly excommunicated by the party and driven from office."

Similarly, Quinn was shocked that Jacobs could be pushed out of his race for re-election in just a week by political pros who previously backed him.

"It was like something I never saw before," Quinn said.

Yet it's also a sign of the times  which, Quinn said, are much different than when he served in the House from 1993 to 2004.

"The day when you could argue an issue politely and professionally, and then go have a cheeseburger and a beer and talk (with a political opponent) about your kids  that's gone," Quinn said. "And that takes away the whole reason of why we are sent to Washington, which is to debate and to discuss."

Much has been said and written over the years about how and why America's two major political parties have ceased to allow room for dissent and compromise. Some blame gerrymandering, which makes many of the nation's congressional districts sharply partisan enclaves where incumbents live more in fear of primary opponents than general election challengers. Others blame the advent of partisan media and social media, which allow conservatives and liberals to choose their news and miss out on a lot of what the other side is saying. Then there's a theory called "The Big Sort," in which author Bill Bishop argues that Americans are choosing to move to communities where people believe what they do.

Whatever the reason, there's no doubt that Democrats and Republicans, both in Congress and across the country, stand increasingly far apart.

A Pew Research Center study this year found that in Congress, the two parties are more separated ideologically now than they have been in 50 years. Whereas there were 160 moderate Democrats and Republicans in the House in 1972, Pew found that there are only about two dozen today.

Meanwhile, in the general public, there's a growing trend of simply hating the other party. According to the American National Election Study, the amount of respect that partisans have for the other party fell by about half between 1980 and 2016.

On the local level, all of this translates to a my-way-or-the-highway approach to bellwether issues like gun control. Joe Sempolinski, the Republican chairman in Steuben County, said Jacobs' decision to endorse an assault weapons ban and other gun control measures simply runs counter to what many voters in the Southern Tier  the largest part of the 23rd District  believe.

"People here are very protective of their constitutional rights, and the right to bear arms is one that people take very seriously in rural areas," Sempolinski said.

Houghton got a pass from voters when he supported an assault weapons ban not just because the times were less partisan, but also because people in the Southern Tier knew and respected him, Sempolinski said. Whereas Houghton was elected to Congress eight years before he cast that vote, Jacobs is a newcomer to the majority of 23rd District voters who live outside of Erie County.

Even so, the fact that Jacobs could be hounded out of Congress by his fellow Republicans shook Anthony H. Gioia, a longtime GOP fundraiser, former ambassador to Malta and friend of the Jacobs family.

"This is really bad for the Republican Party and our country that it has come to this: that we're the only country in the world that has the kind of gun laws that we have and the only country in the world that has as many gun deaths as we have and you've got to support that to be considered a Republican," Gioia said. "I mean, it's as bad as the Democrats are on abortion."

What's more, Gioia said, America's growing partisan divide broadcasts weakness to the world at a time when the nation should be projecting strength to rivals like Russia and China.

"We're a better country than this," he said.

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Dozens of worshippers were feared dead in an attack on a Catholic church in Nigeria on Sunday, state lawmakers said.

Legislator Ogunmolasuyi Oluwole said the attackers targeted the St. Francis Catholic Church in Ondo state just as the worshippers gathered on Pentecost Sunday, with gunmen opening fire and detonating explosives. He said that numerous children were among the dead.

The Vatican said that Pope Francis prays for the victims and for the country, painfully attacked at a time of celebration, and he entrusts everyone to the Lord, that God might send His Spirit to console them.

"It is a black Sunday in Owo. Our hearts are heavy," Ondo Governor Rotimi Akeredolu tweeted Sunday. "Our peace and tranquility have been attacked by the enemies of the people."

The governor was away in Abuja, taking part in his party's primary elections ahead of next year's polls but suspended his activities and returned to Ondo hours later with state security officials.

Akeredolu said that the attackers would be hunted and prosecuted. He also urged residents to remain calm and not resort to retaliation. There has been no claim of responsibility for the attack.



There was no immediate death toll, but Adelegbe Timileyin, who represents Nigerias lower legislative chamber, said at least 50 people had been killed, while others said the figure would turn out to be higher. Video footage of the scene showed worshippers lying in pools of blood as people around them wailed.

It was not immediately clear who was behind the attack. While much of Nigeria has struggled with security issues, Ondo is widely known as one of Nigeria's most peaceful states. The state, though, has been caught up in a rising violent conflict between farmers and herders.

"In the history of Owo, we have never experienced such an ugly incident," said lawmaker Oluwole. "This is too much."

The Christian Association of Nigeria condemned the attack, with spokesman Bayo Oladeji saying, "What happened in Owo today is an unprovoked attack on innocent people worshipping God and to [the] Christian Association of Nigeria, it is condemnable; it is unacceptable. We're tired of people going to church and being killed."

Church officials said many of the wounded were fighting for their lives in hospitals. Some residents launched a blood donation drive to help them.

Nigeria is currently facing a wave of violence by armed gangs. A week ago, the prelate of the Methodist Church of Nigeria, Samuel Kanu Uche, was kidnapped on his way to the airport in southeastern Abia state.

He was released two days later after the church raised about $240,000 and paid the kidnappers.

Timothy Obiezu contributed to this report from Abuja. Some material came from The Associated Press.
A key negotiator on tightening U.S. gun control laws said Sunday there is agreement among Democratic and Republican senators that were going to take some commonsense steps to try to curb the surge in mass shootings that have shocked many Americans.

We are talking about a meaningful change in our gun laws, a major investment in mental health, perhaps some money for school security that would make a difference, Democratic Senator Chris Murphy of Connecticut told CNNs State of the Union show.

He said discussions among lawmakers are also focusing on stiffening background checks of gun buyers before sales are completed and nationalizing so-called red-flag statutes. Under such laws, police in some states can confiscate weapons of people considered to be a threat to themselves or others or exhibited mental instability.

With lawmakers divided for years over contentious gun control issues, Murphy said the senators engaged in the current talks will not attempt to ban the sale of assault weapons used in many massing shootings, including the killing of 19 children and their two teachers at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, May 24, or enact a wider comprehensive background check system for gun buyers.

In a prime-time White House address to the nation last week, Democratic President Joe Biden called for enactment of both the assault weapons ban like the 10-year prohibition he shepherded to passage in 1994 when he was a U.S. senator and closing loopholes that permit some gun purchases without background checks.

The president mentioned the assault weapons ban first among his string of proposals, saying, Why in Gods name should an ordinary citizen be able to purchase an assault weapon that holds 30-round magazines that let mass shooters fire hundreds of bullets in a matter of minutes?

Murphy said despite abandoning any effort to ban the sale of assault weapons, "I've never been part of negotiations as serious as these. There are more Republicans at the table talking about changing our gun laws and investing in mental health than at any time since Sandy Hook," the elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut, where a gunman killed 26 people nearly a decade ago.

A gun rights advocate, House Republican Congressman Steve Scalise of Louisiana, told the Fox News Sunday show, We need to be focused more on stopping things before they happen ... it immediately becomes about Democrats wanting to take away guns.

The Second Amendment is not some guideline, he said, Its part of the United States Constitution. Every day in America people use guns to defend themselves. The right to bear arms is enshrined in the Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Why dont we talk about the root causes of these problems? Scalise said. There is some common ground (politically) to be found there. Id like to see us go in that direction.

Murphy acknowledged being involved in failed congressional gun control talks in the past. So, I am sober-minded about chances, he said.

In Congress, Democratic lawmakers almost uniformly support tighter controls, while Republicans just as adamantly oppose such proposals, saying they impinge on Americans constitutional rights.

The Senate negotiators will need at least 10 Republicans along with the unified group of Democrats in the chamber in order to approve gun law changes.

Murphy said none of the changes being considered would compromise a law-abiding American to be able to buy a weapon. What were talking... is making sure that dangerous or potentially dangerous individuals dont have their hands on weapons.

The difference in the discussions this time, Murphy said, is that, I think Republicans realize how scared parents and kids are across this country. I think they realize that this time cannot be nothing.

Frankly, its a test of democracy, Murphy said. Its a test of the federal government as to whether we can deliver at a moment of just anxiety amongst the American public. Were closer than ever; lets see if we land it.
Nigerian authorities in the capital city of Abuja on Saturday said they're investigating the killing and burning of a man by a mob over accusations of blasphemy. Blasphemy has been a subject of debate in Nigeria in recent weeks after a Christian woman was also burned in the northwestern Sokoto State.

The Abuja Police Command public relations officer, Josephine Adeh, in a statement Saturday said the latest victim was 30-year-old Ahmad Usman a local vigilante member.

She said Usman was involved in an argument with an unidentified Muslim cleric in the Lugbe area of Abuja and it escalated.

She said a mob, numbering about 200, who were supporting the cleric, beat, stoned and then set Usman ablaze before police officials intervened.

"We received a distress call and then we responded to it by deploying our men from Lugbe division, Adeh told VOA by phone. We were able to rescue the victim, who suffered a severe degree of burns, and then we took him immediately to the hospital where the doctor confirmed him dead."

Police surveillance and ambush teams have been patrolling the area since the incident. Adeh said normalcy has been restored. No arrests have been made.

Abujas police commissioner on Sunday said the perpetrators will be sanctioned and warned against the use of so called jungle justice  taking the law into ones own hands.

However, many businesses in the area remained shut Saturday evening over fear that more violence could erupt.

"The area is calm now, there's not much movement around based on what happened earlier, said Princewill Azubuike, a Lugbe resident. There were gunshots earlier in the afternoon and there were people running around."

Blasphemy is a sensitive topic in Africa's most populous nation with a delicate balance of Muslim and Christian populations.

Three weeks ago, a mob in northwest Sokoto state killed and burned the body of a Christian student of the Shehu Shagari College over alleged blasphemy.

The incident triggered protests by Christian groups and human rights organizations. Some of the groups called for the authorities to expunge blasphemy from punishable crimes under the Nigerian law, but for now, it remains on the books.
North Korea launched eight short-range ballistic missiles early Sunday, South Koreas military reported, a significant intensification of missile testing during what has already been one of the Norths busiest years for launches.

North Korea fired the salvo of missiles between 9:08 and 9:43 a.m. local time, according to South Koreas military.

It is North Koreas 18th round of missile launches this year  a show of force that U.S. and South Korean officials say could soon include a nuclear weapons test.

The North Korean launches came after the United States and South Korea held a major military exercise in the waters off Japans coast.

The three-day exercise, which involved the nuclear-powered USS Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier, was meant to bolster the allies capabilities against North Koreas provocations, South Koreas military said.

South Koreas new conservative president, Yoon Suk Yeol, has called for larger joint military exercises to deter the nuclear-armed North Korea.

In response to the latest missile tests, South Koreas presidential office held an emergency meeting of the countrys National Security Council and strongly condemned the launches.

Why it is testing

North Korea has test-fired missiles at a rapid pace this year, apparently in an attempt to make progress on a weapons development wish list laid out by leader Kim Jong Un in 2021.

This year alone, North Korea has tested long-range cruise missiles, a submarine-launched ballistic missile, intercontinental ballistic missiles, and what it described as hypersonic missiles.

Many of the advancements appear intended to make it much harder for the United States and its allies to detect, track, and intercept the weapons.

Sunday is the first time North Korea has launched eight missiles at once, according to defense experts who track North Koreas weapons program.

This sounds like exercises more than new technology, said Melissa Hanham, an affiliate at Stanford Universitys Center for International Security and Cooperation.

In the past, Kim has overseen the launch of multiple missiles during field tests meant to see how quickly and accurately the launches could be conducted. During those tests, North Korea practiced to distances in the sea that were equivalent to hitting the South Korean city of Busan or U.S. bases in Japan, Hanham said.

Weve never seen 8 at once before, though, she added.

According to South Koreas military, the missiles flew about 110 to 670 kilometers, reached an altitude of 25 to 90 kilometers, and traveled at speeds of Mach 3 to Mach 6.

Japans minister of defense, Nobuo Kishi, said at least one of the missiles had an irregular trajectory, suggesting it could be designed to evade missile defenses.

North Korean state media have not commented on the latest launch. Typically, the country does not disclose its missile tests until the following day in state media. However, it has made no such announcement following several recent tests.

Pyongyang appears to be attempting to create a sense of normalcy around its missile tests, insisting it is no different than other countries that regularly test weapons.

However, North Korea is prohibited from any ballistic missile activity under a series of United Nations Security Council resolutions.

North Korea has said it does not acknowledge the U.N. resolutions.

COVID-19 outbreak

The intensified North Korean missile testing comes as the country grapples with a coronavirus outbreak. North Korea last month admitted it had detected cases of COVID-19, following two years of denials.

Although North Korean state media say the pandemic situation is improving, the World Health Organization last week said it assumes the outbreak is growing worse, not better.

A serious COVID-19 outbreak could be devastating for North Korea, which lacks medical resources and even at times basic items such as electricity.

North Korea has repeatedly ignored offers of vaccines from COVAX, the U.N.-backed vaccine distribution effort.

However, Gavi, the vaccine alliance that helps run COVAX, said in a statement to VOA that it understands North Korea has accepted an offer of vaccines from China and has started to administer doses. It offered no other details.

North Koreas battle with COVID-19 has not slowed the countrys weapons tests. Since acknowledging the outbreak on May 12, North Korea has launched at least 14 missiles during three rounds of launches.

Very good odds of 2022 now becoming the busiest year of missile-testing in North Korean history, tweeted Ankit Panda, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.

U.S. and South Korean officials say North Korea is also preparing to conduct its seventh nuclear test. It would be the countrys first nuke test since 2017.
As designer Clary Salandy pushes open the kitchen door at a nondescript community center in west London, her visitors pause at the sight.

A dozen giraffe heads, crafted in shades of orange and brown with top hats and flowing eyelashes, smile in a tidy row atop the commercial-grade stove, while a pair of zebras peer out from a corner near the refrigerator.

That sense of surprise is exactly what Salandy hopes people will experience Sunday, when the giraffes and zebras join a troupe of dancing elephants and flamingos outside Buckingham Palace as part of the pageant that will cap off four days of festivities celebrating Queen Elizabeth II's 70 years on the throne. In the meantime, the plastic foam beasts will remain locked in the kitchen for safekeeping.

Salandy and her team at Mahogany Carnival Arts want their playful reimagining of the setting where the young Princess Elizabeth learned she was queen in 1952, while on a wildlife expedition in Kenya, to spark a sense of fun and fantasy in a nation recovering from the coronavirus pandemic.

They want, in short, to inspire joy.

"When you see it, you should go, 'Wow! You know, that's amazing! Salandy said. "We're going to lift people out of COVID and take them forward when they finish. People should feel positive that life is coming back and we're going to move forward and back into enjoying our lives."

That message will be delivered by a group of 250 artists and performers from the African-Caribbean community, which was particularly hit hard by the pandemic and is now being squeezed by the cost-of-living crisis.

But the performers want to reach out to everyone with a presentation that celebrates the diversity of Britain and the Commonwealth.

Children will become swans, older people will zoom around in mobility scooters decked out as flamingos and dancers will bring the giraffes and zebras to life, perhaps even to mingle with the crowds.

Another group of dancers will unite to form the queen's coronation robe, with the symbols of every major faith and nods to all 54 of the Commonwealth nations woven into its purple and white fabric.

The dances and costumes  really wearable sculptures  grow out of the traditions of Carnival as it is celebrated in the Caribbean. That heritage inspired the Notting Hill Carnival, a celebration of Caribbean culture that has grown into Europe's largest street festival. The end-of-summer party was canceled the last two years because of the pandemic.

Artist Carl Gabriel, who is collaborating with Mahogany, is still putting the finishing touches on an 85-kilogram bust of the queen, complete with crown and diamond necklace, that will form the centerpiece of the performance. On its plinth, it is 4 meters tall.

Gabriel has spent months building the sculpture using the traditional technique of wire-bending together with his own innovations. Created by painstakingly bending bits of wire around a metal frame using an assortment of pliers and hammers, the almost finished work resembles a giant macrame project. After he donned safety glasses and a leather apron at his studio in London, he said he wants the work to have meaning for the queen  and many others besides.

"I feel a lot of people are suffering, Gabriel said. "The least I could do is provide those who suffered a hard time some enjoyment by presenting the work to them.

At its heart, the performance is a celebration of the queen's 70 years of service, said Nicola Cummings, a costume-maker and a teacher at Queen's Park Community School, who is working with 24 young dancers. The queen is at the heart of it all.

"Every visit that she's ever been on, every time that she's come out, she's always represented the country at its best. We've never seen her looking scruffy," Cummings said. "For that alone, you know, we've got to give back now. Here we are. We're showing her our best."

But the performance also carries a message of rejuvenation.

Mahogany's community was an epicenter of the first outbreak of COVID-19, and the months of preparation for the jubilee have lifted the performers, many of whom lost family members during the pandemic.

Just as the queen promised the nation at the height of the pandemic that people would meet their friends and families again, so the performers are celebrating the ability to dance again as part of a community  a group even tighter now than before.

Cummings will be thinking about her father, who was also involved in carnivals. He died of COVID-19 last year.

"I feel like I'm representing him in a way, she said, unable to hold back the tears. "This is almost like a tribute to him."
Russia fired a barrage of missiles early Sunday on Kyiv for the first time in more than a month, shattering a sense of normalcy in the Ukrainian capital.

The Russian defense ministry said its forces had destroyed tanks sent to Kyiv by Western governments, even as Russian President Vladimir Putin warned that Moscow would hit targets we havent yet struck if the West went ahead with plans to send long-range rocket systems to Ukraine.

U.S. President Joe Biden said last week that the United States plans to send $700 million in new weaponry to the Kyiv government that includes four precision-guided, medium-range rocket systems, helicopters, Javelin anti-tank weapon systems, radars, tactical vehicles, spare parts and more.

The U.S. said, however, it will take three weeks to train Ukrainian forces on how to use the rocket systems and deploy them. Washington says it has received assurances from Kyiv it will not use the rockets to target sites inside Russia.

Putin said in a television interview, All this fuss around additional deliveries of weapons, in my opinion, has only one goal: To drag out the armed conflict as much as possible."

If Kyiv gets longer-range rockets, Putin said, Moscow will "draw appropriate conclusions and use our means of destruction, which we have plenty of, in order to strike at those objects that we haven't yet struck."

He contended that the new weaponry arriving in Ukraine was unlikely to bolster Ukraines fortunes and was merely making up for losses of rockets of similar range that they already had.

Ukraine did not immediately confirm the Russian claim that its strikes with high-precision, long-range air-launched missiles had destroyed tanks in Kyiv.

Russia said it had hit railway facilities and other infrastructure in Kyiv, which had not seen such strikes since the April 28 visit of U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

Ukraine's nuclear plant operator, Energoatom, said one cruise missile buzzed the Pivdennoukrainsk nuclear plant, about 350 kilometers (220 miles) to the south of Kyiv on its way to the capital, citing the dangers of such a near strike.

The attack on the capital came as Ukraine said a counterattack on the main battlefield in the east had retaken half the city of Sievierodonetsk, which Russia was on the verge of capturing in its entirety last week. It is the last-remaining large industrial city in the Luhansk region held by Ukraine.

Until the renewed attack Sunday on Kyiv, Russia had focused its fighting for weeks in the east, to try to capture the Donbas region, including Sievierodonetsk.

After it had retreated in recent days, Ukraine mounted a counterattack there, which it says took the Russians by surprise. Serhiy Haidai, governor of the Luhansk region that includes Sievierodonetsk, said it was continuing to push the Russians back.

It had been a difficult situation; the Russians controlled 70% of the city, but over the past two days they have been pushed back," Haidai said on Ukrainian television. "The city is now, more or less, divided in half."

Britain's defense ministry said Sunday that Ukrainian counterattacks were likely to blunt operational momentum that Russian forces had previously gained. It said Russia was deploying poorly equipped separatist fighters in the city to limit the risk to its regular forces.

The situation is tense, complicated," Mayor Oleksandr Stryuk told national television Saturday, saying there was a shortage of food, fuel and medicine. "Our military is doing everything it can to drive the enemy out of the city."

(Some material in this report came from Reuters and The Associated Press.)
A gunman suspected of fatally shooting a retired county judge at a Wisconsin home had a list that included Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers, Whitmer's office and a law enforcement source said Saturday.

Douglas K. Uhde, 56, who has not been charged, is suspected of killing retired Juneau County Judge John Roemer at Roemer's house in New Lisbon on Friday, the Wisconsin Department of Justice said in a news release Saturday.

Uhde was found in the basement of the home with a self-inflicted gunshot wound, following attempts by police to negotiate with him. Uhde is hospitalized in critical condition, DOJ officials said.

Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul on Friday said the shooting appeared to be a "targeted act" and that the gunman had selected people who were "part of the judicial system."

But investigators believe the gunman also may have planned to target other government officials and found a list in his vehicle that contained the names of several other prominent elected leaders, a law enforcement official said. The other targets on the list, which mentioned Roemer, included Evers, McConnell and Whitmer, the official said.

Roemer was found tied to a chair in his home and had been fatally shot, the official said. The official could not discuss details of the investigation publicly and spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.

Uhde has an extensive criminal and prison record dating back at least two decades, including a case in which he was sentenced by Roemer to six years in prison on weapons charges. He was released from his last prison stint in April 2020.

Zach Pohl, Whitmer's deputy chief of staff, said her office was notified that her name appeared "on the Wisconsin gunman's list."

"Governor Whitmer has demonstrated repeatedly that she is tough, and she will not be bullied or intimidated from doing her job and working across the aisle to get things done for the people of Michigan," Pohl said.

Whitmer became the object of protests and criticism after she blamed former President Donald Trump for stoking anger over COVID-19 restrictions and refusing to condemn right-wing extremists.

A trial held earlier this year in which four men accused in an alleged kidnapping plot of the Michigan Democrat resulted in the acquittal of two of the men. The jury could not reach a unanimous verdict for the other two.

Roemer, 68, was a "very loving, very encouraging man with a wonderful sense of humor who will be dearly missed" by the community, said Chip Wilke, pastor at St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mauston, where Roemer was president of the congregation and evangelism chairman. "He was in my office several mornings a week."

Roemer retired from the bench in 2017. He was first elected in 2004 and was reelected in 2010 and 2016. He previously had served as an assistant district attorney for Juneau County and an assistant state public defender. He also worked in private practice and served as a lieutenant colonel for the U.S. Army Reserves.

Investigators said there is no immediate danger to the public.

"The information that's been gathered indicated that it was a targeted act and that the targeting was based on some sort of court case or court cases," Kaul said.

The Juneau County Sheriff's Office received a call that two shots were fired at a home in New Lisbon at 6:30 a.m. Friday, according to the Division of Criminal Investigation. The caller had fled the home and made the call from another nearby house.
Teacher Jessica Salfia was putting up graduation balloons last month at her West Virginia high school when two of them popped, setting off panic in a crowded hallway between classes.

One student dropped on the floor. Two others lunged into open classrooms. Salfia quickly shouted, "It's balloons! Balloons!" and apologized as the teenagers realized the noise didn't come from gunshots.

The moment of terror at Spring Mills High School in Martinsburg, about 80 miles (124 kilometers) northwest of Washington happened May 23, the day before a gunman fatally shot 19 children and two teachers in a classroom in Uvalde, Texas. The reaction reflects the fear that pervades the nation's schools and taxes its teachers  even those who have never experienced such violence  and it comes on top of the strain imposed by the coronavirus pandemic.

Salfia has a more direct connection to gun threats than most. Her mother, also a West Virginia teacher, found herself staring down a student with a gun in her classroom seven years ago. After talking to him for some two hours, she was hailed for her role in helping bring the incident to a peaceful end.

For any teacher standing in front of a classroom in 21st century America, the job seems to ask the impossible. Already expected to be guidance counselors, social workers, surrogate parents and more to their students, teachers are sometimes called on to be protectors, too.

The U.S. public school landscape has changed markedly since the Columbine school shooting in Colorado in 1999, and Salfia said teachers think about the risks every day.

"What would happen if we go into a lockdown? What would happen if I hear gunshots?" she said. "What would happen if one of my students came to school armed that day? This is a constant thread of thought."

George Theoharis was a teacher and principal for a decade and has spent the past 18 years training teachers and school administrators at Syracuse University. He said teachers are stretched more now than ever  even more than last year, "when the pandemic was newer."

"We're sort of left in this moment where we do expect teachers and schools to solve all our problems and do it quickly," he said.

Schools nationwide have been dealing with widespread episodes of misbehavior since the return to in-person learning, which has been accompanied by soaring student mental health needs. In growing numbers, teens have been turning to gun violence to resolve spur-of-the-moment conflicts, researchers say.

In Nashville, Tennessee, three Inglewood Elementary School staffers sprang into action last month to restrain a man who had hopped a fence. After children on the playground were directed inside, the man followed them, but he was tackled by kindergarten teacher Rachel Davis.

At one point, secretary Katrina "Nikki" Thomas held him in a headlock. They and school bookkeeper Shay Patton cornered the man, who didn't have a gun, inside the school until authorities arrived. All three employees were hurt.

"For me, it was just like, these kids are innocent," Patton said. "I just knew that they couldn't protect themselves, so it was on us to do it. And I didn't think twice."

The three employees watched in horror less than two weeks later as news of the Uvalde shooting unfolded.

"In my head, immediately I thought, 'That could have been me and my kids,'" Davis said. "That could have been us out there on that playground with this ... guy if he had had a gun on him."

Adding to frustration for some educators was the scapegoating of a teacher initially blamed for propping open the door a gunman used to enter the Uvalde, Texas elementary school. Days later, officials said the teacher had closed the door, but it didn't lock.

Kindergarten teacher Ana Hernandez said Texas educators are anxious after a rough patch that has lasted years and shows no sign of ending. She and a group of colleagues from Dilley drove an hour to Uvalde to do all they could, delivering donated stuffed animals and cases of water. She said more is needed.

"Changes have to be done for us to feel secure in a classroom as a teacher (and) for students also to feel secure and safe in a classroom," she said.

Tish Jennings, a University of Virginia education professor specializing in teacher stress and social-emotional learning, said teacher stress becomes contagious.

"It interferes with their ability to function, and it also interferes with students' ability to learn," Jennings said. "So, when things like this happen, the school shootings, it shuts everybody down. It's very hard to learn when you're afraid for your life."

Salfia says the load teachers carry is daunting.

"You're a first responder. You're a first reporter. If there's an issue in the home, you are sometimes the only chance a kid has at love, at getting food that day, at maybe getting a warm and safe place to be that day. The scope of the job is huge right now."

The pandemic added the challenge of remote learning, classroom sanitizing and finding enough substitute teachers to keep schools running.

There's also a sense that tragedies continue to happen, and politicians rarely do anything about it.

"It is so hard to know that, at any moment, that reality could also be your reality, or the reality of your children," said Salfia, a mother of three students. "My youngest is the same age as the kids who were killed in Texas. It sharpens everything, I think, especially when you're in a classroom."

In August 2015, the new school year had barely started for Salfia's mother, teacher Twila Smith, when a freshman entered Smith's world studies class at Philip Barbour High School and drew a gun he had taken from his home.

For about 45 minutes, Smith said, no one outside the room knew the class was being held hostage. She diverted his attention from other students and tried to keep him talking while she walked around the room with him.

Eventually, the police persuaded the boy to let everyone go. After at least another hour and a half, his pastor helped convince the boy to surrender. A few months later, he was sentenced to a juvenile facility until he turns 21.

Smith, who has a background in dealing with students with behavior problems, was among those hailed as heroes, a label she deflected.

"I think my training just came into play," Smith said. "And then I had 29 freshmen sitting there looking at me, and I would have to say that they were the heroes. Because they did everything I told them to do, and they did everything he told them to do. And they stayed fairly calm."

Smith saw those freshmen through to graduation in 2019. Then she retired.

Back at Spring Mills High, one of Salfia's former students now works in her department as a first-year English teacher. When asked what she tells others hoping to go into her field, Salfia repeated the ex-pupil's description of what today's teachers go through: "None of us are built for this." But their commitment to the profession is such that they "are only built for it," and could scarcely consider any other career.

"This is the only job I can imagine doing," Salfia said. "But it is also the hardest job I can imagine doing."

After the balloons popped, "kids were visibly rattled," she recalled. "Some people were a little bit angry at me, I think, in reaction to that fear that everyone had experienced momentarily."

She knows that's the world she and her students live in now.

"We are all, at any moment, prepared to run from that sound."
Prominent columnist and constitutional lawyer, Alex Magaisa, has died.

His relative, Levy Magaisa, confirmed Alex Magaisas death but did not give any further details.

He is gone. We are in pain, he said.

Magaisa was a lecturer at Kent University in the United Kingdom.

In a tweet, scholar, Ibbo Mandaza, said, Just received the sad news that Alex Magaisa is no more; a great loss to Zimbabwes intellectual community, to the struggle for a better and democratic Zimbabwe.

Former Deputy Information Minister, Energy Mutodi, also said in a tweet, We are saddened by his untimely death. He had different views, but he raised high our national Zimbabwe flag n the UK as a Law lecturer at Kent University. We will forever miss his critical views. MHSRIP.

Many other Zimbabweans are expressing shock over Magaisas death.

Citizens Coalition for Change activist, Clifford Hlatywayo, said, The world is in a shock! Zimbabwe has lost a great fighter, excellent intellectual, passionate writer and a democrat driven by love to serve the ordinary and proffer the best alternative good for all the citizens.
The National Compassion Fund exists for one reason: to collect and distribute donations to victims of mass-casualty crimes.

And that's why Tops Markets is partnering with the National Compassion Fund to administer the Buffalo 5/14 Survivors Fund, established following the May 14 mass shooting at a Tops store on Jefferson Avenue that killed 10 people. As of early Saturday, the fund had received $2.44 million in donations from 11,900 contributors.

The Buffalo 5/14 fund will give all donated money to the victims  from the families of those killed in the shooting, to the three people who were wounded, along with store workers and shoppers who endured the traumatizing event.

Tops chose to work with the National Compassion Fund because of its experience in handling donations in other traumatizing events.

"People want to help," said Jeffrey Dion, the National Compassion Fund's executive director. "And we want to give them the opportunity to help while it's on their minds. And if you wait too long, they're going to get distracted and start paying attention to something else."

The supermarket chain is covering the Buffalo 5/14 fund's expenses through a separate $75,000 donation, in addition to Tops' own contribution to the victims fund.

That means none of the donations will be used to cover administrative expenses  a cost that can quickly diminish the money that flows to a charitable organization's stated purpose.

In contrast, nearly a quarter of the $442,000 raised by Buffalo Bills fans for the Andy and Jordan Dalton Foundation after a game that propelled the Bills into the playoffs in 2017 went toward expenses.

It is expected to take months for the money to be distributed to the Tops victims. That will allow time for more donations to be made, and a thorough application process for recipients to be completed.

"We're talking about millions of dollars, and we want to make sure we do it right, that we have a process that is fair, and transparent and trauma-informed," Dion said.

That process starts with a steering committee, composed of community members who will make key decisions about how to distribute the money.

"People take this responsibility very seriously," Dion said. "It's very much like a jury deliberation: they try and figure out what's fair, what's the right thing to do to spread out that money."

A separate fund, called the Buffalo Together Community Response Fund, is addressing community needs beyond those of the victims. That fund is led by the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo and the United Way of Buffalo and Erie County.

Dion described how the Buffalo 5/14 fund and its local decision makers will proceed:

 Rev. Mark Blue, president of the NAACP's Buffalo chapter, and Paul Vukelic, president and CEO of Try-It Distributing, were named co-chairs of the steering committee. More members will be named soon.

Steering committees for other funds have ranged from 12 to 25 people, Dion said. "The most important thing is that you have the right kind of people and you have a committee that is a representative reflection of the community it's serving."

The National Compassion Fund asks that certain skill sets be represented on the committee, including a trust and estates lawyer, a psychological trauma expert, a victim services expert, as well as faith and business leaders. Sometimes, large donors are named to the committee. And when a unionized workplace is involved  such as Tops  the fund recommends a union representative be part of the committee.

 Before the committee meets for the first time, the National Compassion Fund provides its members with the outline of a draft protocol, with sections where members will have to make decisions about their own fund and community.

Once approved, the draft protocol is published for public comment. The fund's website contains a link where anyone interested in tracking its progress can sign up for updates. At the end of the public comment period, a town hall meeting is held.

"They can ask a question about the protocol, they can offer feedback," Dion said. "In my experience, sometimes people just want to come and share their story and be heard. And all of those things are perfectly legitimate."

 The steering committee finalizes the protocol, setting the rules the National Compassion Fund will operate under. Then an online application for potential recipients is created, a process that takes about two weeks.

The steering committee decides how long the application period will remain open. With some other funds, that has been about a month.

 The applications then will be reviewed. Paralegals from three large Washington, D.C.-area firms volunteer their services to perform that work, for free. The paralegals ensure the submitted paperwork is complete; if not, they follow up with applicants to fix any problems.

 The next step is to verify the claims, ensuring applicants were at the store that day. If the applicant is a Tops employee, the fund will validate the information with the company. If the applicant was a customer, the fund will verify the information with law enforcement.

Applicants who were injured must authorize release of their health information, and the fund follows up with the hospital to confirm details of their treatment.

Once that research is complete, the National Compassion Fund reviews the applications. If everything appears in order, the applications are sent to another D.C.-area law firm whose paralegals do a "fresh eyes review and make sure everything is complete and ready to be paid," Dion said.

 Then the applications sit and wait.

"We don't make decisions about how much people get until the end of the process, because we're giving out 100% of the money," Dion said. "In order to make that determination, we have to tell the steering committee, 'This is how much money has been donated and this is how many people have been validated in each category' (of recipients). Now we have to approve a distribution plan that gives 100% of that money to those validated applicants."

Then the steering committee determines how much money goes to each category of recipients.

Once the distribution plan is approved, recipients will start receiving funds within a matter of days, he said. Until then, the funds are held by Bank of America, a partner of the National Compassion Fund.

There are no strings attached to how recipients spend the money, Dion said. Some have set up scholarship funds. Others have paid a mortgage for a year.

"There are as many options and reasons as there are victims, and that's why we want them to be able to decide what helps them," Dion said.

 The VictimConnect Resource Center  a program of the National Center for Victims of Crime - has trained victim specialists who update victims about the fund and information about resources available in their communities.

The National Compassion Fund has distributed nearly $106 million in donations to more than 3,500 beneficiaries in 21 different incidents since 2014. It is a subsidiary of the nonprofit National Center for Victims of Crime.

Of all the funds administered by the National Compassion Fund, the one that received the largest amount of donations  about $33.6 million  was for victims of a mass shooting at a nightclub in Orlando, Fla., in 2016.

For donations made online through GoFundMe, a credit card processing fee is charged. Donors have the option of increasing their donation to cover that fee. The National Compassion Fund recommends donors contributing $5,000 or more pay by check or wire transfer.

Matt Glynn

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Dont tell TLC, but it seems like well eventually be getting more Scrubs. Per Deadline, a Scrubs reunion panel at the ATX Festival on Sunday, June 5 was very receptive to the idea of rebooting the series. Were gonna do it because people still care about it and we enjoy spending time with each other, show creator Bill Lawrence said. The hospital comedy-drama aired its first seven seasons on NBC and its last two seasons on ABC. But we might not be getting a TV revival: Donald Faison, who played Christopher Turk, explained that a Scrubs movie might be more feasible for scheduling purposes. I think we all want a reboot and want to work together again but it couldnt be a full season, he said. Maybe like a movie or something we could shoot in a few months. With everything Bill is doing now, hes never going to be free again. If he finds the time, well do it. Faisons suggestion for a movie could also be the best option, given that Lawrence added during the panel that he wouldnt do a Scrubs musical unless the entire cast wanted to. Do you really want to hear Sarah [Chalke] sing? No, you dont, he joked. To that we say: Hey, itd be better than putting her in blackface again! Regardless of the final format, well be waiting to see if this potential reboot ends up finding a banana hammock-friendly home.
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A festival of economics sounds like a contradiction in terms. What next? A bacchanalia of boredom? A celebration of sophistry? Thomas Carlyle dubbed economics the dismal science for good reason. Yet Turins International Festival of Economics lived up to its billing. Giuseppe Laterza, the festival impresario, got the inspiration of the festival from two sources: the Hay-on-Wye book festival in rural Herefordshire, which Bill Clinton dubbed the Woodstock of the mind, and a festival of philosophy in Modena.

This years theme, merit, diversity and social justice, could not have been more timely. There is a fierce global debate going on about the subject, with both the right and the left united in denouncing meritocracy as a sham. Italy has also been in perpetual turmoil about the relative claims of family loyalty and open competition, la dolce vita and self-discipline, new men and ancient traditions.

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Italy is in many ways the worlds great pioneer of meritocracy. Venice became a global power in the early middle ages by embracing open competition: governed by a doge, who was selected by a council of wise men, rather than by a royal dynasty, it showered opportunities on new men and new economic forms, principally commenda, prototypes of todays joint-stock companies. Venetian sailors, estimated to number 36,000 in the early 15th century, popped up as far away as China. Renaissance Florence saw the discovery of the individual, in Jacob Burckhardts evocative phrase, meaning the discovery of the individual as a self-defining creature rather than as a member of a clan. The Risorgimento was a liberal revolution against feudal princelings.

Italy has produced some of the worlds great meritocratic thinkers. Niccolo Machiavelli may have dedicated The Prince to Lorenzo de Medici with his signature cynicism but he argued that open republics are more successful than principalities because they choose their leaders on the basis of their fitness for the job and can get rid of them when their job descriptions change. Vilfredo Pareto believed that history is shaped by the vital few and that the key to social progress is the circulation of elites.

Italy also has a tradition of calling on meritocratic rulers when the times demand it, including, in recent years, Mario Monti, Lamberto Dini and Carlo Azeglio Ciampi. The current prime minister, Mario Draghi, is meritocracy made flesh: He trained as an economist at MIT, worked for the World Bank and Goldman Sachs, and, after a spell as Italys central banker, ran the European Central Bank during the euro crisis, famously declaring that he would do whatever it takes to save the euro. It is hard for an Englishman to listen to Italians praising their current leader for his various virtues  his consummate professionalism, civic-minded patriotism and aversion to cheap populism  without a sense of shame about Britains prime minister. He understands the nitty-gritty of a market economy, says Mario Calvo-Platero, a veteran Italian journalist. He also knows how to get things done.

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Yet there is also another side to Italy that smothers the principle of merit. Nepotism is, after all, derived from an Italian word, nepotismo. In 1297, Venice excluded new talent from its governing council in what Venetians came to call La Serrata or the closure, which culminated with the publication of an official list of top families, the Book of Gold (Libro dOro) in 1315. Decline followed. The Renaissance collapsed in fleshly decadence.

Today, Italys technocrats are temporary alternatives to two very different groups: a permanent ruling class of political bosses and placemen, bound together by loyalty and clientelism, and populists who rail against this system, dubbed La Casta in a best-selling book in 2007, only to replace one form of incompetence with another. This is the country of Silvio Berlusconi more than Mario Draghi.

This ambivalence about the merit principle runs through the backbone of corporate Italy, the family-owned midsize companies that employ most of the countrys private-sector workers and give it its unique flavor. From one perspective, these companies limit the spread of public-sector clientelism: They operate in the open market and transmit skills from generation to generation. If they stumble, they have only themselves to blame. But from another perspective, they are barriers to open competition, with family ownership discouraging outside talent and provincialism limiting opportunities. A few become global stars: Technogym in exercise equipment, Zegna in fashion, Lavazza and Illycafe in coffee and Eataly in restaurants and food distribution. Most punch below their weight.

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The overall mood of the conference was skeptical about the case for meritocracy. Michael Sandel got a warm reception for his condemnation of the tyranny of merit. Pedro Gomes talked enthusiastically about how Friday is the new Saturday. Numerous participants focused on the difficulties of creating a meritocracy: How exactly can you define merit? How do you measure it even if you can define it? How do you provide equality of opportunity in a world of growing inequality? And, besides, isnt meritocracy just an excuse for plutocracy? Local activists told tales of social exclusion and racial discrimination.

I have argued elsewhere, as I argued at the conference, that there are compelling answers to all these questions. I have also argued several times in my columns, as I argued at the conference, that the best solution to social exclusion is to search more vigorously for talent in every corner of the population (and in every form that it might take) rather than to focus on group rights and wrongs. But much as I enjoyed the to-and-fro of the proceedings, I couldnt free myself from one overwhelming thought: that the last thing Italy of all places needs is a large helping of skepticism about meritocracy. Whatever is wrong with meritocracy is as nothing compared with its opposite  the suffocating system of patronage and clientelism that smothers the country.

Italys lack of meritocracy is contributing to its corporate malaise. Only nine Italian companies make it onto the 2022 Forbes list of the worlds 2000 biggest public companies, with the biggest, the electricity company Enel, coming in at number 110 followed by the oil-and-gas conglomerate Enel at number 11. Fiat, the carmaker that built modern Turin, is now part of a conglomerate called Stellantis headquartered in Amsterdam. Ferrero, the maker of Nutella, has decamped to Luxembourg, despite the fact that inhabitants of the companys hometown of Alba, near Turin, wept in their thousands when the companys founder, Michele Ferrero, died. The company that produces Campari, the liquid accompaniment to la dolce vita, moved its legal seat to the Netherlands, Bulgari has been subsumed into Frances LMVH and Gianni Versace International is owned by Michael Kors USA.

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Lack of meritocracy is driving talent abroad. American universities are a haven for Italians like Luigi Zingales, a star finance professor at the University of Chicagos Booth Business School, who said that, as a young man, he faced a choice between staying in Italy and spending years as a bag-carrier to a senior professor, with every chance that the professor might offer his patronage to somebody else, or going to America and being judged on his publications. Draghis supervisor at MIT was another ex-pat Italian, Franco Modigliani. The World Bank employs so many Italian economists that, during the sweltering summer, Italian is the dominant language at its private country club  sorry, recreation center.

With talent fleeing, corporate Italy is becoming a gerontocracy. The countrys most prominent businessmen (and men is deliberate) are octogenarians: Berlusconi (85), Leonardo Del Vecchio of Luxottica (87), Luciano Benetton (87), and Giorgio Armani (87). Half of first-generation family firms have an owner-boss who is over 60, according to a 2017 study by Guido Corbetta, of Bocconi University, and a quarter have one who is over 70.

Above all, lack of meritocracy is reducing the countrys productivity, and hence its long-term prosperity. Mr Zingales has teamed up with another economist, the University of Marylands Bruno Pellegrino, to examine the impact of meritocracy on productivity. They constructed a meritocracy index of advanced countries on the basis of two things: the World Economic Forums survey of who holds senior positions (essentially whether they are appointed on the basis of connections or qualifications) and, more broadly, the level of meritocracy in the wider society (quality of government, rigidity of employment laws, quality of judicial decisions, size of the black market, vibrancy of the high-tech sector). Sweden comes at the top and Italy at the bottom.

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The authors also demonstrated that a low meritocracy score is becoming more of a problem for productivity as information-technology takes root. Italys loyalty-based management style had no negative consequences for productivity growth in the decades before 1995. But when the IT revolution took off in the 1990s, loyalty-based management reduced Italys productivity growth by between thirteen and sixteen percentage points. The penalty for refusing to embrace meritocracy is growing fast.

The most compelling argument I heard all week was about quality of life. Americas uber-meritocrats may be more productive than their Italian equivalents with their 80-plus hour work weeks and lavishly-remunerated berths at giant consultancies or law firms or investment banks. But at what cost? Neglecting their children, rushing their meals, answering e-mails late into the night. By contrast, Italians enjoy long lunches and even longer dinners (Turin was the birthplace of the slow-food movement) while working for companies that operate on a human scale.

I, too, prefer long lunches to bloated work-hours, particularly when so much work time these days is spent filling out convoluted forms from todays equivalent of Charles Dickens circumlocution office, the HR department. Yet ultimately the argument is unconvincing, not least because so many bright young Italians are voting with their feet and moving to the US. In the long run you cant preserve the good life, with its slow food and lazy evenings, without having a productive economy to fund it. Meritocracy is not the antithesis of a civilized society, but the precondition for its survival.

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(Corrects the spelling of Carlo Azeglio Ciampi in the sixth paragraph.)

This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners.

Adrian Wooldridge is the global business columnist for Bloomberg Opinion. A former writer at the Economist, he is author, most recently, of The Aristocracy of Talent: How Meritocracy Made the Modern World.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com/opinion

2022 Bloomberg L.P.

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The president of the National Urban League placed a bouquet of flowers Saturday at the memorial for the 10 victims of the racially motivated shooting May 14, then discussed how an economic plan could revitalize the Jefferson neighborhood.

Marc H. Morial, the head of the New York City-based organization devoted to racial justice and urban advocacy, did not linger on the "unspeakable act of domestic terrorism and racist hate crime" at the Tops Market three weeks ago. His focus was on the future, on taking proper steps and including the right people for a productive path forward.

"I think there's a need to respond to this with a plan that addresses the systemic issues, and that plan can't be put together on the back of an envelope," Morial told roughly 70 community members and media assembled across Jefferson Avenue from Tops. "It needs to be put together carefully and thoughtfully, and then demand that people invest in it."

The plan should focus on housing, youth, health and mental health, said Morial, head of the National Urban League since 2003. The Urban League has 92 community affiliates, including one in Buffalo since 1927.

Morial met with Buffalo Mayor Byron W. Brown, whom he said he has known for several years, and Buffalo Urban League president Thomas Beauford Jr. for about 90 minutes to discuss how to devise such a plan, before a stakeholder meeting  with business leaders, government officials and grassroots organizations, Beauford said  commenced Saturday afternoon. The second meeting's purpose was to encourage buy-in.

"One of the things we've known in the past is when we do this in pockets and don't have an inclusive strategy, it's not sustainable nor does it usually yield the results that we want to yield," said Beauford, president of the Buffalo chapter since 2020. "We want to get an initial commitment that they're in this for not just an initial response, but there's going to need to be an immediate response and a long-term response."

Morial, who said the plan should benefit both the Jefferson neighborhood and "East Buffalo," repeatedly referenced a collaborative effort in which he is taking part in Indianapolis, called the African American Equality of Life Renewal Initiative. The $100 million investment project, focused on economic development, housing and jobs, was funded by Lilly Endowment, a private philanthropic foundation.

That economic plan might not serve as a blueprint for Buffalo, which will likely require city, county and state backing, Morial said, but also a rapid pace.

"There was an extensive process of hearings and discussions with the community, and a needs assessment that was done," Morial said of the Indianapolis project, which was announced almost two years ago. "I think there needs to be faster action in this regard."

Both Morial and Beauford said balancing the need for quick action while laying out a wise, inclusive plan was the major challenge.

"Peoples' impatience, the desire to have a plan to go forward is very real," said Morial, who also served eight years as New Orleans mayor. "What I'm here to do is to say that 'People, for such a plan to work, everybody has to be at the table.' "

While Morial said he intends to contribute financial resources and "political muscle" to the plan, Brown and Beauford will guide local progress.

Brown, who also spoke to the media Saturday along with several other officials, said he requested resources from President Biden akin to what a community might receive from a natural disaster.

"I'm committed to bring resources that this community deserves back to the East Side of Buffalo to make sure that as we are healing, and as families are grieving, this community rises stronger and better than it ever has been," Brown said.

Ben Tsujimoto can be reached at btsujimoto@buffnews.com, at (716) 849-6927 or on Twitter at @Tsuj10.

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U.S. carrier involved in drills, Seoul says Wp Get the full experience. Choose your plan ArrowRight South Korea and the United States staged their first combined military exercises involving an American aircraft carrier in more than four years, Seouls military said on Saturday, amid reports that North Korea was preparing for a nuclear test. It was the allies first joint military exercise since South Koreas President Yoon Suk-yeol took office last month.

The three-day drills took place in international waters off the Japanese island of Okinawa until Saturday, including air defense, anti-ship, anti-submarine and maritime interdiction operations, South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said.

The USS Ronald Reagan, a 100,000-ton nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, joined the drills, alongside the guided-missile cruiser USS Antietam, the Aegis-equipped destroyer USS Benfold and the fleet replenishment oiler USNS Big Horn, the JCS said. South Korea sent the amphibious landing ship Marado, and the destroyers Sejong the Great and Munmu the Great, among others.

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The exercises came amid signs that North Korea is gearing up to conduct a nuclear test for the first time since 2017. Seoul officials have said Pyongyang has conducted multiple experiments with a detonation device in preparation for its seventh underground explosion.

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Explosion at factory in India kills at least 8: At least eight workers were killed and over a dozen others injured after a fire erupted in a chemical factory in northern India, police said Saturday. A boiler exploded in the factory in the Hapur area of Uttar Pradesh state, said senior police officer Pravin Kumar. The injured have been hospitalized and three of them were in critical condition, he said.

Man burned to death after arguing with Muslim cleric in Nigeria: A Nigerian man was burned to death on Saturday by a mob in the capital, Abuja, following an argument with a Muslim cleric, police said. "The heated argument degenerated into an outbreak of violence that led to the murder and setting ablaze of Ahmad Usman by the enraged mob mobilized by the clergy numbering about two hundred," said Josephine Adeh, police spokesperson for Abuja. Nigeria is a secular nation but some states in the mostly Muslim north observe Islamic sharia and have courts that punish those accused of deviating from its practices.

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Body of fifth victim in Swiss train crash recovered: The body of a fifth victim was found beneath a train that derailed Friday in the Alps in southern Germany. The man's body was uncovered after a heavy crane was brought in to lift a train car near the resort town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. About 140 people were on the train at the time of the accident, including students headed home from school for the Whitsun holiday. Police for the southern Bavaria region said 44 people were injured.

2 killed, 12 injured in crash of trafficker's car in Greece: Two people, one believed to be a Pakistani migrant and the other a known trafficker, died Saturday in northern Greece while trying to evade a police checkpoint, police in the northern Greek city of Thessaloniki said. Twelve more people riding in the passenger car were injured, with the most serious injuries suffered by those stashed in the stolen car's trunk. The car, traveling from Greece's land border west toward Thessaloniki, was flagged at a police checkpoint. It sped through, leading police on a 50-kilometer (31-mile) chase until it slammed into a protective barrier.

Albanian parliament elects new president: Albania's parliament elected a top military official as the country's new president after no candidates were nominated in three rounds of voting. Maj. Gen. Bajram Begaj won the post after the 140-seat parliament voted 78 in favor, four against and one abstained. The five-year presidency has a largely ceremonial role, though there is some authority over the judiciary and the armed forces. It is limited to two terms.

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Iran's ayatollah blames protests on "foreign" enemies: Iran's Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is blaming recent protests in Iran on foreign "enemies" seeking to overthrow the Islamic republic. "Today, the enemies' most important hope for striking a blow at the country is based on popular protests," the nation's supreme leader said Saturday, referring to week-long protests over the collapse of a building in southwestern Iran last month that killed 37 people. Authorities have blamed the collapse on local corruption and lax safety.

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In some respects, Spider-Man is a useful touchstone for Ms Marvels journey. In the past there has been a tendency to age-up younger superheroes into a kind of television-and-film-adulthood, perhaps because it was perceived as a better fit with a broader audience. The current Spider-Man franchise, starring Tom Holland, is the first in some time to give the character a teen-aged origin story and then gradually mature him on screen. I think its so realistic that a kid doesnt know how to fight and talk to bad guys, says Vellani. Kamala doesnt know what shes supposed to do, but she knows she has powers. That she has to do good with them. I think our show does quite a good job in just like being corny, but also self-aware about that, the fact that its corny. Iman Vellani at the London premiere of Ms. Marvel. Credit:Getty Images Being a teenager, you go through so much, all your growing pains, and your break-ups, and friendships, and crushes, everything is so heightened, Vellani adds. Minor inconveniences feel like the end of the world because you havent really experienced a lot. Youre only like, what, 16? Everythings so new and fragile. I think theres still so much time, and kids dont always realise that. The shows high school setting gives it an easier way into that suite of emotions, Vellani says. Im still learning so much and feeling new feelings every day; high school is definitely no ones peak, but its nice that our show gets to kind of appreciate the fact that this is high school, she says. And Kamala sees Carol Danvers, and she sees how she fights, and shes like, oh, Ive got to do that.

Vellani is only three years older than the fictional Kamala Khan. And Vellani is being wheeled out to the worlds media to promote a major title for the streaming platform owned by one of the worlds biggest content studios. I have opinions, and I have feelings, and I have thoughts, and I think all of our creatives at Marvel, theyve really respected me and allowed me to be part of this collaborative process, Vellani says. I am so eternally grateful for them, [that they] just treat me like a real person. And I think it helps the story as well to bring a lot of myself and my experiences into the show. Because you know, it is written by 30-year-olds, 40-year-olds. Its hard writing for 16-year-old kids. As an Italian-Australian, I point out to her that I have never met a Pakistani-Canadian. Our differences are obvious, but in some ways, I put to Vellani, perhaps our experiences are the same? Growing up, I didnt care about it, it wasnt something I would define myself as because I was like, no, Im Canadian, I dont remember Pakistan, I was born there, but I moved when I was one, Vellani says. It didnt feel like a thing that I needed to say to people to define myself. Then, after doing the show and seeing so many talented writers, and producers, and creatives on our show coming from south Asian and Muslim backgrounds, and speaking Urdu on set, it was just so comforting, Vellani says. I think I got to experience a lot of Kamalas self-discovery journey as well. And I think weve shared growing up together, and learning about our backgrounds, and our culture, and how much that means to people.

Now, she says, she is very proud of her heritage. I cannot wait to start talking about it more to people and let people know that their experiences are shared. Im not the only Canadian-Pakistan girl. Its important to showcase immigrant children who are proud of their culture, and dont neglect it, which is how we see a lot of them in mainstream media. Walking in the door for the first time, Vellani says, she was offered advice from every direction. Literally, everyone gives me advice, she says. They kind of just see me as this little person they need to protect just because of how new I am, and how little experience I have. After she was cast, actress Brie Larson, who plays Captain Marvel in the MCU films, contacted her. She reached out and was like, we need to talk. And it was so freaky that I was on FaceTime with Brie Larson two days after I got cast, Vellani says. But she was so welcoming and encouraging. And even though she was already an Oscar winner, Marvel completely changed her life. And so I cant even imagine what the next year is going to look like for me. But shes really supported me. It can be lonely being on set and you feel a little insecure sometimes, Vellani adds. A lot of the stuff requires so much CGI. So even though it looks cool when youre watching it on Disney+, in real life, Im just going like, ugh, you look like a complete idiot. Its very nice to have her reassurance of her experiences, and how uncomfortable her costume is. We were just sharing stories. Questions about the planned 2023 film The Marvels are the sort which can lead to rapped knuckles, particularly when it comes to a spoiler-wary studio such as Disney-owned Marvel. At the same time, I put to Vellani, questions about it are inevitable, at least insofar as the commitment she is making to the character and the franchise, beyond the Ms. Marvel television series.
Two out of five young Australians are hesitant about having kids because of climate change, while Australia has ranked 30th of 39 countries on environmental conditions that affect the wellbeing of children.

A survey of 10,000 16- to 25-year-olds in six rich countries  Australia, Portugal, United States, Britain, Finland and France  found one in four young Australians is extremely worried about climate change, second only to Portugal.

Lucinda Crompton and Kaya Ozen are concerned about climate change. Credit:James Alcock

Eighty-two per cent of Australians in this age group are at least moderately worried about climate change, and only 6 per cent are not worried at all.

The survey results were published in The Lancet Planetary Health last year and republished in the Unicef Innocenti Report Card 17, which compares the environment and environmental impact of 39 OECD countries and the impact on under 18-year-olds.
Nothing will bring her beloved 2-year-old granddaughter Raelynn Huber back, but Bernadette Smith of Lockport said her family is nonetheless grateful for a new law that was passed Friday in both houses of the New York State Legislature that updates the rights of family members in wrongful death lawsuits.

Raelynn was killed in a two-car collision May 21 at Niagara Falls Boulevard and Sy Road in Wheatfield, in which her mother and Raelynn's infant sister survived. Smith said that, when it comes to pursuing a wrongful death lawsuit in New York State, the current law is antiquated.

"The current law in New York State for wrongful death allows you to seek damages and reparation for a wrongful death, but the emphasis or the focus is really on the decedent's income and whoever was relying on them at the time (of death)," Smith said in a telephone interview with The Buffalo News the night before an amended bill was passed in both the state Senate and Assembly.

A spokesman in the office of Sen. Patrick M. Gallivan, a co-sponsor of the bill in the Senate, said via email Friday that "the bill makes several amendments to the New York State Estates, Powers and Trusts law governing the rights of members of a family resulting from wrongful act, neglect or default causing death of a decedent."

Among the changes, it would allow courts to consider emotional loss and grief when compensating bereaved close family members who have lost a loved one as a result of negligence.

2-year-old killed in crash of two SUVs in Wheatfield A 2-year-old child died of injuries suffered in a collision of two SUVs on Tuesday afternoon

"So, as it stands right now, if, for example, you're 2 and don't have a job, there's no consideration for what you would have done in your life, for what you could have done in your life, the suffering, the loss of comfort, the grief that your family would have," Smith said.

"It's only really simply based on your conscious human suffering at the time and your monetary value, how much money you were making and who was relying on you for income," she added.

"Nothing will bring back Rae, and we have to accept and adjust to the reality that we will not have the opportunity to see her grow up, feel her hugs, hear her songs, see her smile, or fulfill her destiny," Smith said in a follow-up email.

"Although we cant imagine life without this sweet girl, we are sincerely grateful that the New York State legislators put this bill up for a vote this session," she added.

Smith described her late granddaughter as "whimsical" and said she loved to dance to any kind of music.

"She loved trucks, big trucks. She would try to get them to honk when they would go by her. Her mom and dad would take her and her sister for walks every evening. As the trucks went by, they taught her how to do the 'honk it' with her arms. She really liked motorcycles or the loud stuff that a 2-year-old might typically be a little concerned about. She actually really thrived on that," Smith said.

Smith is the mother of Kathlyn P. Ventura, 29, of North Tonawanda, Raelynn's mother. Raelynn's father is Cody Huber. Ventura was driving eastbound in a Mitsubishi when the vehicle got involved in an accident with a northbound Honda driven by Jose M. Lazatin, 71, of Niagara Falls.

Meanwhile, the bill passed by the Legislature is waiting to be signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul.

Smith noted that New York and Alabama are the only states that do not allow grieving families to sue for grief in court.

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ABUJA, Nigeria (AP)  Gunmen opened fire on worshippers and detonated explosives at a Catholic church in southwestern Nigeria on Sunday, leaving dozens feared dead, state lawmakers said.

People walk in the St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo Nigeria, Sunday, June 5, 2022. Lawmakers in southwestern Nigeria say more than 50 people are feared dead after gunmen opened fire and detonated explosives at a church. Ogunmolasuyi Oluwole with the Ondo State House of Assembly said the gunmen targeted the St Francis Catholic Church in Ondo state on Sunday morning just as the worshippers gathered for the weekly Mass. (AP Photo/Rahaman A Yusuf)

ABUJA, Nigeria (AP)  Gunmen opened fire on worshippers and detonated explosives at a Catholic church in southwestern Nigeria on Sunday, leaving dozens feared dead, state lawmakers said.

The attackers targeted the St. Francis Catholic Church in Ondo state just as the worshippers gathered on Pentecost Sunday, legislator Ogunmolasuyi Oluwole said. Among the dead were many children, he said.

The presiding priest was abducted as well, said Adelegbe Timileyin, who represents the Owo area in Nigerias lower legislative chamber.

Our hearts are heavy," Ondo Governor Rotimi Akeredolu tweeted Sunday. Our peace and tranquility have been attacked by the enemies of the people.

Authorities did not immediately release an official death toll. Timileyin said at least 50 people had been killed, though others put the figure higher. Videos appearing to be from the scene of the attack showed church worshippers lying in pools of blood while people around them wailed.

Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari said only fiends from the nether region could have conceived and carried out such dastardly act, according to a statement from his spokesman.

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No matter what, this country shall never give in to evil and wicked people, and darkness will never overcome light. Nigeria will eventually win, said Buhari, who was elected after vowing to end Nigerias prolonged security crisis.

In Rome, Pope Francis responded to news of the attack.

The pope has learned of the attack on the church in Ondo, Nigeria and the deaths of dozens of worshippers, many children, during the celebration of Pentecost. While the details are being clarified, Pope Francis prays for the victims and the country, painfully affected at a time of celebration, and entrusts them both to the Lord so that he may send his spirit to console them, the pope said in a statement issued by the Vatican press office.

It was not immediately clear who was behind the attack on the church. While much of Nigeria has struggled with security issues, Ondo is widely known as one of Nigeria's most peaceful states. The state, though, has been caught up in a rising violent conflict between farmers and herders.

Nigeria's security forces did not immediately respond to questions about how the attack occurred or if there are any leads about suspects. Owo is about 345 kilometers (215 miles) east of Lagos.

In the history of Owo, we have never experienced such an ugly incident," said lawmaker Oluwole. This is too much.
LOS ANGELES (AP)  Brad Johnson, who jumped from rodeo cowboy to portraying the Marlboro Man in cigarette spots and film and TV roles including Steven Spielbergs Always and Melrose Place, has died. He was 62.

LOS ANGELES (AP)  Brad Johnson, who jumped from rodeo cowboy to portraying the Marlboro Man in cigarette spots and film and TV roles including Steven Spielbergs Always and Melrose Place, has died. He was 62.

Johnson died Feb. 18 in Fort Worth, Texas, of complications from COVID-19, his agent, Linda McAlister, said Saturday.

Johnson played opposite Holly Hunter in 1989s Always, a remake of a 1943 film (A Guy Named Joe) about firefighting pilots. He played a pilot again in the 2000 religious apocalyptic thriller Left Behind, starring Kirk Cameron, and was in its two sequels.

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He worked regularly on TV, including in the recurring role of Dr. Dominick OMalley in Melrose Place; Rough Riders, Soldier of Fortune, Inc. and CSI: Crime Scene Investigation.

Johnson was born in October 1959 to parents Grove, a horse trainer, and Virginia, in Tucson, Arizona. After competing in rodeos as a youth, he began his professional rodeo career in 1984 and was discovered by a movie scout, according to a family biography.

His work as an actor and as a Marlboro Man  one of a succession used by the brand  brought Johnson and his wife, Laurie, to California. They eventually moved their family to a ranch in New Mexico and the Colorado mountains before settling in north Texas. He sold ranchland real estate there.

"As much as he loved cowboying and the outdoors, Brad loved nothing more than his family. He put them before himself in every way and they know that they could not have been blessed with a better husband and father, his family said in a statement.

Although he was taken too early, he lived life to the fullest, they said.

Johnsons survivors include his wife of 35 years, Laurie, as well as their children Shane, Bellamy, Rachel, Eliana, Eden, Rebekah, Annabeth and William, and Johnson's stepmother, Teresa Johnson.
PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (AP)  Cambodians headed to the polls Sunday in local elections that are their first chance to vote since the ruling party of long-serving Prime Minister Hun Sen swept a 2018 general election that was widely criticized as unfair.

Hun Sens Cambodian Peoples Party is certain to sail to easy victory again following what the U.N. Human Rights Office charged Thursday was a pattern of threats, intimidation and obstruction targeting opposition candidates. 

"Candidates have faced numerous restrictions and reprisals that have hindered their activities, with imprisonment of a number of candidates that appears designed to curb political campaigning, the agency said. It added that at least six opposition candidates and activists were in detention four days before the polls, awaiting trial, while others summonsed on politically motivated charges had gone into hiding.

Cambodia's delegation at the U.N. Geneva offices said in a statement that the criticism was erroneous, politicized and selective. It said all political parties, including opposition ones, have fully exercised their rights in line with the laws and registered schedules without any threats and obstruction.

Hun Sen and his wife cast their ballots Sunday morning in Kandal province near the capital, Phnom Penh.

Hun Sen, an authoritarian ruler in a nominally democratic state, has held power for 37 years. He has said he intends to stay in office until 2028 and has endorsed one of his sons to succeed him.

His party is the only one to field candidates nationwide in all 1,652 communes. Its only serious rival, the Candlelight Party, has candidates in 1,632 communes, and the royalist FUNCINPEC Party has challengers in 688 communes. There are a total of 82,786 candidates from 17 political parties with 9.2 million registered voters.

The local elections are held a year ahead of the general election, and are regarded as a test of the parties strength.

In the last communal elections in 2017, the main opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party made an unexpectedly strong showing, which led Hun Sens government to crack down on it as well as independent media. The party was dissolved by the Supreme Court on a charge of treason, widely seen as politically motivated, and the free press was driven out of business or cowed into submission.

Without the Cambodian National Rescue Party on the ballot, Hun Sens party was assured of victory in the general election the following year.

Several Western nations imposed sanctions on the government after concluding the 2018 election was neither free nor fair. The harshest measure came from the European Union, which withdrew some preferential trading privileges.

The dissolved Cambodia National Rescue Party, whose sitting members were also ousted from their political posts, remains banned, with most of its top leaders in exile.

The Candlelight Party is now seeking to challenge the ruling party by rallying its former supporters, though its activities have remained severely curtailed.

The original Candlelight Party was founded in 1995 by Sam Rainsy, the main political rival of Hun Sen, and later folded into the Cambodia National Rescue Party. Sam Rainsy, faced with legal harassment, went into self-exile in France, and the co-founder of the Cambodia National Rescue Party, Kem Sokha, is currently being tried on a thinly supported treason charge.

Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Wisconsin Arts & Peony Fest is only in its second year, but its organizers are projecting that the flowers in the area, along with the festival, will see some major growth by 2025.

The second annual festival was held this past weekend with arts events in downtown Beaver Dam as well as tours at Ovans Peony Farm on Highway CJ.

Michelle Ovan said that Ovans Peony Farm started after both she and her husband retired from the U.S. Navy and they had a piece of property with 40 acres. Ovan had wanted to grow something to take to the farmers market and originally tried to grow blueberries, but they did not work well with the soil. It was her mother who suggested peonies.

I had never seen a peony until I moved here to Wisconsin, Ovan said, who is from California originally.

Ovan said they have been growing the fragrant flower since 2009. They grow for cut flower production.

It takes four years for a plant to be mature enough after it has been planted for it to be ready for us to harvest, Ovan said. So since we moved, these plants here at this farm, they are four years old, so this is our grand opening. This will be the first year we cut on them. When you cut on them for flower production you dont cut everything because you need to leave the leaves for photosynthesizing. We only cut a third of the blooms of the plants this year so there are plenty of blooms to view. That is why we leave them on and invite everyone to the farm to see the beauty of the flowers.

Beaver Dam Mayor Becky Glewen saw a way to promote downtown Beaver Dam while showing off the flower, Ovan said.

As soon as Mayor Becky found out what we were doing here at the farm, she recommended we do this Wisconsin Arts & Peony Festival, Ovan said. Last year was our first year, and this is our second year, and it has been phenomenal.

People travel to come from all over to see the flowers, Ovan said. The people are able to travel between the farm and the downtown area, where the art area is featured.

Area downtown businesses offer activities for those attending the festival, including this year the Beaver Dam Community Library had reading with a racehorse and Walldogs Artist doing a mural painting at Ooga Brewing.

The goal is for Beaver Dam to become the peony destination of the Midwest, Ovan said. Last year we planted 119 peonies in the downtown area that included some of the nonprofits and down the river walk. We have plans to get the businesses involved and also planting in other areas, so we are hoping to have the American Peony Society Convention here in Beaver Dam in 2025, because everything we planted last year will be mature and beautiful.

Beaver Dam Chamber of Commerce executive director Tracy Propst said that the Wisconsin Peony Society donated a $1,000 for the peony exhibit.

It will actually have Midwest cultivators premiered there so people can come and see the different variety of peonies during future peony fests, Propst said. In addition, a number of these Midwest cultivators have donated plants as well. Hopefully it takes a few years here to grow, but hopefully by 2025 I think we will have a great exhibit of peonies.

The next event coming out of the chamber this summer is Taste of Wisconsin that will be held in the east section of tower parking lot on June 18, chamber tourism marketing manager Jessica Helman said. Tickets are available at beerfest.com.

Follow Terri Pederson on Twitter @tlp53916 or contact her at 920-356-6760.

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BEIJING, June 4 (Xinhua)  "Long as the way is, I will keep on searching high and low." This line, excerpted from the popular ancient poem "Li Sao," has deeply resonated with President Xi Jinping.

While addressing a ceremony marking the 95th founding anniversary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) in 2016, Xi, also general secretary of the CPC Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, quoted the line to boost the morale of all Party members to stay true to the founding mission of the Party and to continue marching forward.

The poem written by Qu Yuan, a well-known Chinese patriotic poet from the Warring States Period (475-221 BC), depicts the poet's concern for the country and people. For thousands of years, the aforementioned line has inspired generations of patriots of high ideals to pursue the truth.

Imbibing the spirit of patriotism from the line, Xi has on multiple occasions emphasized the pursuit of happiness for the Chinese people and rejuvenation for the Chinese nation, while stressing the importance of forging ahead.

The CPC has achieved an outstanding result in its historic test. However, this test is by no means over, and it is continuing right now, Xi has said.

Under the leadership of the CPC, China has achieved the miracles of rapid economic growth and long-term social stability, and the Chinese nation has undergone a tremendous transformation from obtaining independence and becoming prosperous to growing in strength.

In the new era, the Party is rallying and leading the Chinese people to forge ahead on the new journey toward realizing the Chinese Dream of national rejuvenation.

Xi has called on the entire Party to maintain its modesty and prudence and avoid arrogance and impetuosity, while preserving its tradition of hard work, having the courage to change and innovate, and ensuring that it never becomes rigid or stagnant.

The Chinese Dream of national rejuvenation has to be achieved, and will definitely be achieved, Xi has vowed. "The road ahead is long; striving is the only way forward."

(Source: Xinhua)
Is there anything more ominous than a volcano threatening to blow? Some of these lava, debris, and noxious gas spewing giants have a demonstrable track record that leaves nearby residents palpably aware of the potential dangers. Other juggernauts lie dormant, patiently biding their time. Scientists know that it is a question of when, not if. A recent National Volcanic Threat Assessment by the U.S. Geological Survey cataloged 161 volcanoes throughout the country, 18 of which are considered a "very high threat." The following are at the top of the watchlist.

1. Kilauea, Hawaii

Helicopter ride to the Kilauea volcano.

Kilauea is the youngest volcano on the Island of Hawai'i, but it is also one of the world's most active and the country's most dangerous. Kilauea has erupted dozens of times since 1952, with almost continuous activity between 1983 and 2018. For ten full years between 2008 and 2018, the summit of this shield volcano contained a lava pond, which gave off an intense gas plume. This pond once again formed in the Halema'uma'u crater after an eruption that lasted between December 2020 and May 2021 and fed yet another eruption which began in September 2021 and is still persisting today.

Read MoreKilauea, Hawaii

2. Mount St. Helens, Washington

Mount St. Helens, Washington.

Mount St. Helens is the most active volcano in the Cascade Range and is also part of the Ring of Fire, a notorious region of volcanic and seismic activity that spans from the West Coast of South America all the way to Alaska and the Aleutian Islands. Mount St. Helens has oscillated between violent and dormant periods throughout its history. On May 18, 1980, a particularly devastating eruption occurred. This event wiped out thousands of acres of land, including the wildlife, and spewed an ash cloud so large that it circled the globe and darkened the sky for hundreds of miles around the site. In the end, over 50 people lost their lives.

Read MoreMount St. Helens

3. Mount Rainier, Washington

The glowing peak of Mount Rainier at dawn.

This 14,410-foot stratovolcano has been active for the last half-million to one-million years, oscillating between periods of high and low-volume eruptions. It is estimated that lava flows probably spewed 1,000 feet into the air above the already sizable summit in the past. The most recent eruption phase ended approximately 1,000 years ago, but due to its position in a subduction zone, the collision of tectonic plates causes around 20 minor earthquakes each year. Mount Rainier is considered dangerous not only for its eruption potential but also because of the risk of significant debris flows, which could impact the 3.3-million residents in the Seattle Tacoma area, but also the Columbia River drainage system flowing towards another 500,000 residents in Southwestern Washington and Northwestern Oregon.

Read MoreMount Rainier

4. Redoubt Volcano, Alaska

Mount Redoubt seen from Anchor Point, Alaska.

Located in the Chigmit Mountains, within Lake Clark National Park and Preserve, this 10,197-foot active Alaskan volcano has a recent track record of naughty behavior. Redoubt erupted in 1902, 1966, 1989-90, and 2009. The potential for further activity poses a threat to the four villages/towns within 50-miles of the volcano and the city of Anchorage, which is 108-miles to the Northeast. To get a sense of Redoubt's power, it gave off 23 major explosions between December 1989 and April 1990. During this eruption, a Boeing 747 was on an unlucky route through the ash cloud. Even high in the sky, the airplane still experienced full engine failure for a tense period before successfully making it to Anchorage.

5. Mount Shasta, California

Mount Shasta and Suspension Bridge standing above Lake Siskiyou.

Mount Shasta, located in the Cascade Range of Northern California, is a relatively new formation that spawned from the remains of another volcano that collapsed approximately 300,000 to 500,000 years ago. The resulting landslide from this colossal event covered more than 170-miles of Shasta Valley, making this one of the largest known landslides on earth. The modern Mount Shasta volcano is the most voluminous of its Cascade Range fiery brethren. Though the 14,163-foot peak is blanketed in ice and snow, the settlements that sit in its shadow (Weed, Mt. Shasta City, McCloud) know not to underestimate its capabilities. The eruption record suggests at least one event every 600 to 800 years. Even in non-eruption years, heavy rainfall frequently causes mudflows that run into the surrounding stream channels.

Read MoreMount Shasta

6. Mount Hood, Oregon

Lavender Valley in Hood River with Mt Hood in the background.

Oregon's highest peak provides valuable resources for the agricultural and tourism sectors of the city of Portland and the surrounding area. However, Mount Hood is also a testy volcano blowing its lid for the last half-million years, with two major eruptions occurring in the last 1,500 years. The resulting flows and debris can choke the vital river systems long after the eruption itself has ceased. The devastation to the Sandy River caused by the 1781 eruption was even reported by the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805-06. The last explosive activity occurred in the mid-1800s and was reported to be minor. Since then, Mount Hood has stood as a calm and scenic backdrop for Oregon's biggest city. Fingers crossed it stays that way.

Honorable Mention: Yellowstone Supervolcano, Wyoming

Volcanic activity in the Yellowstone region.

Though it is not expected to pop anytime soon (scientists are monitoring it closely), the Yellowstone Supervolcano has proven to be unfathomably dangerous in the past. Its first massive eruption took place 2.1 million years ago. In the aftermath, over 5,790 square miles were covered in ash. This makes it one of the largest eruptions ever known. Then, 640,000 years ago, another major eruption caused the ground to collapse into a lake of lava. The resulting caldera, though filled in by further lava flows, still measures 30 by 45 miles. Thankfully, the Yellowstone Supervolcano has been dormant for 70,000 years and shows no signs of a brewing eruption. Scientists would expect months of seismic warning in advance of another significant explosion.

Read MoreYellowstone National Park

The long and capricious lifespan of volcanoes sees their destructive tales spread from legends to breaking news stories. Of the 161 volcanoes cataloged by the U.S. Geological Survey, these are the big dogs to watch out for. Though they may look solid, these beautiful and terrifying peaks can quickly reshape their image and the surrounding landscape. Enjoy them while you can, keep your eye on the latest warnings, and when the time comes, get the heck out of Dodge.

The 18 Most Dangerous Volcanoes In The United States
In April I spent some time in Buffalo, where most of my family still lives. I was welcoming a niece and memorializing a family friend. I wasnt ready to lose my friend, but no one ever is. Id be numb for days, then mugged by grief.

Weeks later, I was on my front stoop in Brooklyn, weeping over reports of a racist massacre in my hometown. My neighbors averted their eyes. In a city like New York, preserving the illusion of privacy is part of the social contract. I now join millions in grieving another massacre, this time of schoolchildren and teachers in Uvalde, Texas, a place Ive never been; only our shared horror binds us. The difference between grieving a friend and the pain over these massacres is rage. My friend wasnt killed by the indifference of the powerful. Those lost in Buffalo and Uvalde were.

Worse than thoughts and prayers are the solutions officials offer. Gun control isnt a panacea  it wont end racism  but it would mean fewer deaths. Yet some still have the audacity to claim we need more guns. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton said on May 25 we should think about putting cops in schools. In 2018, two weeks after an armed student killed 10 people at a Texas school, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott proposed increasing the number of police and armed guards in schools. The National Rifle Association responded to the 2012 massacre in Newtown, Conn., by calling for armed police in schools.

Any media outlet treating this as a serious suggestion is not practicing serious journalism. There was an armed guard at the Buffalo store where 10 people were murdered; he, too, was killed. The Uvalde gunman who killed 19 children and two teachers was there for more than an hour before police stopped him. Parents of the children inside begged them to go in sooner. At the 2018 massacre in Parkland, Fla., police responded slowly, ineptly or not at all. A sergeant and seven deputies heard shots; none entered the school to confront the shooter, who went on to kill 17 people, including 14 children.

The United States is armed to the teeth. We have more guns than people. In 2017, more than twice as many school-age children died violently than active-duty police officers and military personnel combined. Guns killed those children. Police officers and enlistees accept some risk. Children and teachers shouldnt have to.

Paxton said hed rather have law-abiding citizens armed to respond when something like this happens because its not going to be the last time. The NRA gave him $11,000 in 2019  not much, but enough for Paxton to accept as inevitable that our latest child massacre wont be our last.

The best way to reduce gun violence is to make it harder to get guns. Policymakers who say otherwise are lying. In life, some losses are inevitable. These werent.
Figures reveal North Wales mountain rescuers were busiest in England and Wales during first quarter of 2022

New figures show two mountain rescue teams in North Wales were the busiest in England and Wales during the first quarter of 2022.

The statistics which cover the period between January and the end of March this year show the Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team was called out the most times to 46 incidents.

The Ogwen Valley Mountain Rescue Organisation was just behind in second after attending 34 incidents.

The next busiest teams across the two countries were the Central Beacons Mountain Rescue Team in south Wales (31) and Keswick Mountain Rescue Team in the Lake District (also 31).

The North Wales Mountain Rescue Association said it was not necessarily a wanted accolade for the regions two teams.

In a post on Facebook, it said: Not the sort of competition you want to win but Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team and Ogwen Valley Mountain Rescue Organisation were the two busiest teams in England and Wales, with 46 and 34 incidents each. This isnt even the busy quarter!

Call out figures for other North Wales mountain rescue teams include Aberdyfi (10), Aberglaslyn (8), North East Wales (22) and South Snowdonia (5).

It puts the total number of incidents in the region for the period at 125, the second busiest area behind the Lake District with 152 incidents.

The figures were detailed in the spring edition of the Mountain Rescue Magazine.

It also highlights statistics showing the busiest days and months for incidents across Wales and England, as well as the main causes.

Saturdays (26%) and Sundays (21%) perhaps unsurprisingly accounted for the highest percentage of incidents with January (43%) the busiest month.

Human error (17%) was cited as the biggest contributing factor, followed by inexperience (12%) and bad decision making (11%).
Petrol prices rocket by 10p in May  the second largest monthly rise on record, says RAC

The average price of petrol increased by 11p a litre in May  the second largest monthly increase ever seen, data from RAC Fuel Watch shows.

A litre of unleaded rose from 162.87p at the start of May to 174.02p by the close.

This was less than a penny short of the all-time biggest rise recorded in March when a litre of petrol jumped by 11.61p (151.67p to 163.28p), the RAC has said.

The major difference with the May rise, however, is that this happened after the historic 5p-a-litre duty cut invoked by Chancellor Rishi Sunak on 23 March and, of course, despite this, the cost of a litre has rocketed to yet another record high.

May also saw average diesel prices climb to new heights with a litre going up to 183p, a hike of more than 5p which takes the cost of a complete tank above 100 for the first time ever. A full tank of petrol also hit the landmark cost of 95.

The punitive pump price hike has been driven by oil rising from $106.07 to a late month high of $124.45 (31 May)  a 17% increase, combined with a weaker pound at $1.2  an important factor as fuel, like oil, is traded in dollars on the wholesale market which can dramatically affect the price retailers pay to buy it.

The average price of a litre of unleaded across the big four supermarkets, which dominate UK fuel retailing, went up nearly 9p from 160.31p at the beginning of May to 169.05p by the end. Diesel increased from 174.18p to 180.38p  a jump of 6p a litre.

On the motorway a litre of petrol closed May at 187.66p, up by nearly 5.5p from 182.19p at the start. Diesel finished the month at 197.71p, up from 192.5p, with the prospect of hitting 2 a litre very real in the near future.

In terms of where prices might head next, the RAC expects average petrol prices to hit 185p as a result of the rising cost of oil, with diesel heading towards the 190p mark.

RAC fuel spokesman Simon Williams said:

May has proved to be another horrible month for drivers with the average price of petrol shooting up by 11p a litre. This is the second biggest monthly increase on record and comes despite the 5p-a-litre cut in duty.

Since Russia invaded Ukraine on 24 February the price petrol has gone up 24p a litre, for diesel the figure is 30p.

This means the cost of filling a 55-litre petrol car has gone up by 13, and a diesel one by 16.50.

Both of these figures would have been even higher had the Government not cut fuel duty.

While its hard to imagine prices getting much worse, the wholesale price of petrol has now gone above diesel which spells yet more bad news at the pumps in the coming weeks.

With drivers facing such a dire situation on the forecourts we badly need further intervention from the Chancellor as households and businesses surely cant take much more financial pain in conjunction with the horrendous hikes in gas and electricity.

Something needs to be done, whether thats a further cut in duty from the current 53p charged on every litre bought at the pumps, or a reduction in VAT from 20%.

Arguably, a duty cut would make a bigger difference to both businesses and individuals, but it also seems very unfair that the Treasury is benefitting to the tune of 30p a litre in VAT revenue from the record high prices  as its effectively a tax on a tax, applied on top of the wholesale fuel cost, duty, delivery and retailer margin the challenges drivers are facing, a VAT cut would be instant and wouldnt be swallowed up by fluctuations on the wholesale market.
Were back again after two mass shootings. Now were in the medias interview Republicans blaming it on everything but guns for it stage. Mental illness, video games, breakup of family, prayer in schools, etc. But the truth is even if an angry 18-year-old with all those conditions could not kill 21 in a matter of minutes. Maybe with a bomb but not with anything else. Even our own Congressman Chris Jacobs said he would vote for a ban on those weapons but truthfully that was like saying youll quit smoking weed when Willie Nelson does.
Former county detention center nurse, Michelle Heughins, is scheduled to enter a plea this coming Thursday. Her legal representation has informed reporters that she plans to plead not guilty to charges of involuntary manslaughter in connection with the tragic death of inmate John Neville on December 2019 in the Forsyth County Jail in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

According to the medical examiners report and body camera footage from the event, John Neville died after being restrained forcefully by five detention center officers in a prone position while he was suffering a medical emergency. Heughins, who was the only staff member attempting to stop the restraint and save Neville, is the sole individual to be indicted for the death. Charges against the five officers were dropped on April 4 after a secret grand jury meeting.

Nurses have been quick to speak out in opposition to the unjust charges against Michelle Heughins. In statements, many nurses have referenced the recent RaDonda Vaught conviction and the precedent set by this case whereby health care workers can be scapegoated for systemic issues, including short staffing and overwork, that put workers into impossible and unsafe positions.

Michelle Heughins checks the blood pressure of John Neville after he is detained by jail officers (from video released by the Forsyth County Superior Court) [Photo]

Several nurses spoke to the World Socialist Web Site to express their support for Ms. Heughins and to share their own experiences of the unsafe conditions that predominate in all hospitals and prisons.

Dianne, a North Carolina nurse with 22 years of experience, said, I couldnt go to Tennessee for Vaught or to D.C. for the nurses march because Ive been struggling financially ever since I had COVID. But I really defend nurses and want to make sure I can use my voice to defend our profession. She also said that she stands with RaDonda Vaught, DQ Beasley and other nurses who have faced victimization on the job.

I was watching the bodycam footage. I was watching and imagining the agony that Mr. Nevilles family must have gone through. I watched, and I cried. And it hurt me too that Michelle had no voice. [The corrections officers (COs)] didnt let her use her voice. She asked him to put his legs down, and then they pushed him down. Then they sent her out of the room.

From what Ive seen, she should have had the power and authority in that moment, but the CO in charge just took her power away. You could hear [Nevilles] voice get weaker. You could see his legs and arms getting weaker. No one did anything because they were too busy making fun of him. They took a behavioral event and made fun of it when it was a serious medical event.

Dianne then described her horror that the corrections officers were not indicted, while Heughins remained charged with manslaughter. The whole RaDonda Vaught case has set up this way of scapegoating nurses. The jail and different hospitals can just make themselves look better by throwing a nurse under the bus. You can see from the footage that she isnt responsible. It breaks my heart as a nurse. Nurses have gone from heroes to criminals, and thats wrong. Thats not what we are.

Dianne also discussed how worsening conditions in hospitals make nurses more likely to make errors. The more and more patients you get, the more common mistakes are going to be. The administration of these big hospitals dont care.

The CEOs are making millions upon millions, and we are struggling to survive.

While Dianne did not work bedside during the pandemic, she experienced the dire levels of short staffing and poor conditions as a patient. I tested COVID positive in November 2020. I was on a ventilator for five days, and my sats [oxygen saturation] dropped as low as the 50s. A doctor told my sister it would be prudent for her to make end-of-life plans for me. Dianne would remain in the hospital for multiple weeks.

I thought I was going to die, and there was no one there for me the way I had been there for my patients. The pandemic has done this to bedside nursing. The nurses would come in sweating, wearing PPE, so apologetic. They would say, We wish we could do what we want to do for you. Towards the end, the apologies would go away because they were just so burned out.

RaDonda Vaught trial. Source Courtroom TV.

Mila, a nurse who has worked across multiple specialties, including in corrections, spoke about the conditions in the jails and prison nursing and her support for Michelle Heughins. The nurse does not get to decide when she goes in. It is 100 percent custodys fault. I just hope she did documentation. You have to document everything to protect your license and cover yourself.

One of the jails Mila worked for was also staffed by Wellpath Care, the same health care company that staffed Michelle Heughins current employer, Forsyth County Jail.

She explained how conditions at many Wellpath locations are unsafe. We are supposed to have 12 nurses on staff. We are usually six or seven nurses short every night. The night charge nurse would perform multiple tasks: draw blood, do vital signs, do med pass. For 12 hours, I would run and run. When I asked additional employees for help, they didnt do anything. Every nurse is doing two and a half peoples jobs. We didnt take lunch for months and months. It is not safe when you are missing one-third or half of your staff and performing multiple tasks. Wellpath would assign LPNs as a charge if there was no staff, even if it was above their scope of practice.

The latest med pass should start at 8:00 and end at 10:00. Our nurses would be passing meds until 12:00-2:00 am. The medical staff in jails is extremely short-staffed. You would do 2.5-3 nurses jobs and get paid for one. Then they would blame you if something goes wrong.

Mila then spoke about the Michelle Heughins case. They just needed to sacrifice Michelle. The officers just cover up for each other. They do it all the time. If you are a contractor, you are their guest and you need to follow their rules. You can provide medical care to the inmate after officer approval, or they will complain.

A nurse at the rally in Tennessee for RaDonda Vaught May 13 [Photo: WSWS]

A new nurse in the California Bay Area, who asked to remain anonymous, said, Ive only been a nurse for a few years, and Ive already seen this pattern emerging of nurses being victimized at work when they are just trying to do their job.

RaDonda Vaught and Michelle Heughins are just two of the big names, but we dont hear about all the times this happens on a minor scale. I got in trouble at work by the administration because I made a medication error. I reported it because youre supposed to do that; you learn in nursing school that you must report errors so the hospital can make appropriate changes. I got in trouble, and the error was added to my file at work, which means maybe it will come up when I apply for a new job.

The only reason I made the error in the first place was that I had a really high patient load, all of them were really sick. When I told management this, they just told me I should slow down, take a deep breath next time I feel stressed.

I do not think Michelle should be prosecuted. I dont know a lot about what its like to work in corrections, but from social media and talking to other nurses it seems clear that these facilities are terrible work environments. There is never enough staff, never enough resources and you are bullied by the corrections officers.

When I watched the body camera footage, I was shocked to see that it looks like she was the only nurse at this incident. That was what made me so upset. No nurse should deal with emergencies alone! You need so many hands to save someone. Sometimes you dont think clearly if its your patient and they are coding. Thats just one of the reasons why you need other nurses to step in and help. And how was she supposed to think clearly when the corrections officers were yelling at her, telling her to leave the room?

I think all nurses and all health care workers need to take these cases extremely seriously. We have to find a way to fight back against it too. In my opinion the fight against this victimization is a much larger fight against the entire way health care is run. Its all about profit, not about our safety or our patients safety.

On Sunday, May 22, at a meeting hosted by the World Socialist Web Site Healthcare Workers Newsletter, nurses from throughout the US met to discuss the situation facing health care workers and the scapegoating of nurses for the consequences of short staffing and overwork.

Nurses at the meeting adopted a resolution, founding a national health care workers steering committee to assist in the building of rank-and-file committees at every hospital and workplace to defend nurses and health care workers and to connect opposition to victimization to a struggle to advance the interests of nurses and patients against the for-profit health care system.

Send in your statement opposing the victimization of Michelle Heughins and the conditions at your hospital or workplace using the form below.
By Trend





Islamic Republic of Iran has welcomed the extension of the ceasefire for more two months agreed by those involved in the Yemen conflict, the spokesman at the Foreign Ministry has announced, Trend reports citing IRNA.

Iran welcomed the extension of the truce proposed by the United Nations special envoy, Saeed Khatibzadeh noted.

Islamic Republic hopes that a political solution would be reached, a sustainable ceasefire would be established and the siege would be lifted completely under the shadow of the mentioned efforts, Khatibzadeh underlined.

Islamic Republic of Iran based on its strategic attitude and principled policies has always recognized political way as the [sole] solution for the Yemen crisis.
A retired Juneau County judge who was gunned down in his home Friday morning had sentenced his alleged killer to six years in prison for armed burglary and other weapons charges in 2005, online court records show.

Douglas K. Uhde, 56, shot and killed John Roemer, 68, after entering the judges home in the town of Lisbon around 6:30 a.m., the state Department of Justice said in a statement Saturday.

Law enforcement officers tried to negotiate with Uhde before entering the residence around 10:15 a.m., the DOJ said. In the home, they found Roemer dead and zip-tied to a chair and Uhde in the basement with a self-inflicted gunshot wound, a law enforcement official told The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.

Uhde was taken to the hospital and remains in critical condition, the DOJ said.

Investigators have said Uhde planned to target other government officials and found a list in his vehicle that included Roemer, Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, said the official who was not authorized to discuss details of the investigation publicly.

The 56-year-old has an extensive criminal and prison record spanning at least two decades.

In 2005, Uhde was convicted in Adams County Circuit Court of burglary while armed and other weapons offenses, including possession of a short-barreled shotgun or rifle.

Roemer was not the judge at the time the case was initially tried in 2002 but did preside over the withdrawal of Uhdes no contest plea and subsequent reconviction after a court of appeals reversed his earlier conviction, sentencing him to six years in prison and nine years of extended supervision.

Uhde has later convictions for escape/criminal arrest, fleeing an officer, driving a stolen vehicle and obstructing police.

Record of appeals by Douglas Uhde Appeals filed by Douglas K. Uhde, who police say shot and killed retired Juneau County Circuit Court Judge John Roemer in his home Friday morn

His 2005 conviction came at the end of a lengthy series of court fights in the case, which began with an incident in August 2001. After pleading no contest in 2002, Uhde pursued an appeal and succeeded in withdrawing his plea, according to online court records.

After his attorney withdrew from the case, Uhde appears to have represented himself, was reconvicted and appealed again.

For his subsequent offenses, Uhde was sentenced  by other judges  first to 9 months in jail for the escape in 2007, and then seven years in prison and four years of extended supervision for fleeing police and driving a vehicle without the owners permission in 2008.

According to court records, the escape conviction came after Uhde walked away from a job site in Baraboo while an inmate at the Fox Lake Correctional Institution. He pleaded no contest in Dodge County and was sentenced to 18 months in prison. He appealed the conviction because the job site was in Sauk County, but the appeal was denied.

After Uhde escaped, a truck owned by Easter Seals was reported stolen in Wisconsin Dells. Rome police found a salt spreader and other items that had been in the truck 10 days later.

Uhdes former girlfriend told police she was afraid Uhde might come to her house. She received three phones calls from him the next day, according to court records. Uhde told her he was driving a newer pickup truck. Police tracked the call to a pay phone and put the truck under surveillance.

Two days later, a woman spotted Uhde standing in his ex-girlfriends yard. Later that night, police saw a truck fitting the description of the one Uhde was driving outside the ex-girlfriends home and where she worked.

When police got closer, the truck drove away. Following a high-speed chase, Uhde drove the truck into a ditch and field, causing it to burst into flames. Officers found Uhde hiding near a log after he was tracked by a police K9.

Records show Uhde was released on community supervision in 2015, but was returned to prison in 2019. He was released from prison on April 14, 2020, and was under community supervision at the time of the shooting.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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Authorities said retired judge John Roemer was shot in Juneau County early Friday in what they said was a targeted act against the judicial system.

On Saturday, the Department of Justice identified the alleged shooter as 56-year-old Douglas K Uhde.

Judge Roemer had previously sentenced his alleged killer to six years in prison for armed burglary and other weapons charges in 2005, online court records show.

Uhde has later convictions for escape/criminal arrest, fleeing an officer, driving a stolen vehicle and obstructing police in a separate case.

Records show Uhde was released on community supervision in 2015, but was returned to prison in 2019. He was released from prison on April 14, 2020 and was under community supervision at the time of the shooting.

The shooting happened about 6:30 a.m. Friday near the town of Lisbon, about 80 miles northwest of Madison.

The Department of Justice's Division of Criminal Investigation is leading the investigation.

Roemer was first elected as a Juneau County Circuit Court judge in 2004. He was re-elected in 2010 and 2016, and retired in 2017.

Those who knew Roemer said he was a man of the law who would help out anyone in his community.

"He treated everybody real fair and equal," said Timothy Cottingham, chair of the Juneau County board and a friend of Roemer's. "It seems like he would give the benefit of the doubt and try to help people out as much as he could."

While he was on the bench in Juneau County, Roemer presided over some high profile cases.

In 2017, he presided over a case in which a Lyndon Station village president had been convicted of 22 counts of sexual assault. Roemer ruled that a juror was not credible and granted Donald Coughlin a new trial, in which he was convicted again.

In 2009, he sentenced a former Necedah religious leader for hiding the corpse of a follower who died from natural causes on her toilet.

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Reeves Johnsons sister Sally Swartz, his brother Hugh Johnson, and Kittery Police Chief Robert Richter take part in a panel discussion, looking for information about his 1983 disappearance.

KITTERY, Maine  The family of Reeves Johnson III, who went missing in 1983, hope the new offer of a $6,000 reward will lead to answers and closure.

The reward was announced by Police Chief Robert Richter during a special event Saturday at Star Theatre.

Kristen Seavey, host of the "Murder, She Told" podcast, told the story of Johnson's disappearance as his sister Sally Swartz and brother Hugh Johnson listened from the audience. They joined Seavey, Richter, and Kittery police detective Brian Cummer in a panel discussion, later opened for questions from the audience, facilitated by the podcast's producer Byron Willis.

Previous story: Where is Reeves Johnson III? Family, police seek clues in Kittery man's 1983 disappearance

This photo of Reeves Johnson III was taken in December 1982. He has been missing since 1983.

The missing man's parents, Kemp and Barbara Johnson are deceased.

Community members were invited to share flyers that were provided, to talk with friends, with family and to hopefully find information about what happened to Reeves Johnson.

After he announced the reward, Richter told a story about a cold case in Chelmsford, Massachusetts, where a 17-year-old girl went missing in 1982.

"Seventeen-year-old Judith Chartier's car was found by divers in the Concord River, 40 years later," Richter said. "Her remains were inside. Her parents never got closure, and I don't want that to happen to this family. Someone knows something that can help."

Police urge community speak up about Reeves Johnson

Kittery Police are hoping to solve a cold case, of a man missing since 1983.

"Who was his girlfriend; did she have a son?" Richter asked. "He went to Newsom's Market on a daily basis. He worked at Donnelly Manufacturing (in Exeter, New Hampshire). Please come forward, if not for the reward, then for the family."

More: Kittery police team up with Maine true crime podcast on 1983 Reeves K. Johnson III cold case

Richter said Cummer has been the driving force behind reopening the cold case.

Cummer said the case is as important to him as any case because Johnson is still missing and because he is a victim.

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Johnson, born in 1951, had moved to Kittery in 1977. In 1983, he stopped showing up for work, his family couldn't contact him, his car, a red VW bug was abandoned in a repair shop, and he appeared to simply vanish.

At the time of his disappearance, Johnson, with brown eyes and curly brown hair cut just below his ears, was said to have stood 5 feet 7 inches, weighed 130 pounds and was sporting a full beard. Johnson sometimes wore wire-rimmed glasses for his near-sightedness, but typically wore contact lenses instead.

Seacoast news: Download the Seacoastonline mobile app and the Fosters.com mobile app to stay connected

His contact lenses were found in a cabin he had been living in at Jewett's Court in Kittery.

Forensics in the 1980s were not what they are today, and Cummer said that if they were, this case would have been investigated very differently. The car was never processed as a crime scene, there were no composite sketches done on potential suspects, persons who might be witnesses are now deceased or can't be found, and things fell through the cracks that are part of routine investigations today, he said.

Portsmouth 8-year-old dies in S.C.: Fundraiser to help Quarius Dunham's family with memorial services after fatal shooting

Cummer hopes to make up for that with the reopened investigation.

Richter said Seavey and Willis and their investigative team have been great to work with, and he credited them with digging up a lot of interesting hints.

Podcast host helps get word out

This is known as the "Mysterious Man" photo among investigators and family of Reeves Johnson III, who went missing in 1983. They suspect he was trying to retrieve a paycheck for Johnson from his post office box after he went missing.

Seavey began Saturday's event by recreating the "Murder, She Told" podcast episode she did about the Johnson case. She reviewed the information they put together on the case, interspersed with memories from his brother and sister, who talked about growing up, about their family up to the moment Reeves went missing. She showed a slide of the only real clue, an unidentified man who allegedly went to Reeves' post office box to steal his mail, possibly knowing there was Johnson's last check inside. The photo was snapped by his mother, who staked out the box, but he blocked the picture with his hand.

Kristen Seavey of Murder, She Told podcast shows the best lead police have, and hope someone can identify the man trying to remove mail from Johnson's P.O. Box.

Swartz talked about health issues with her brother. She said he had hypoglycemia, but it was not properly diagnosed. She said doctors thought he was on drugs, which she said he never used. Others said he had psychosis or schizophrenia, because his low blood sugar symptoms mimicked the conditions.

"This brings back a lot of hard memories, but it's nice to talk about him again," Swartz said. "It brings back the guy we knew; we had him back for a few days. We strongly believe that if he was going off the grid, he would have told us, told our parents. He had a high sense of honor. Everything about this is out of character for him."

Kittery police encourage anyone who has information to call the department at (207) 439-1638, or email Cummer at bcummer@kitterypolice.com.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Kittery ME: Reeves Johnson III cold case now has $6,000 reward offer
Photo Illustration by Luis G. Rendon/The Daily Beast/Arizona Ballet

An Arizona man has been charged with second-degree murder after prosecutors say he shot dead his ballet dancer wife in the middle of the night, claiming he had been startled awake.

Christopher Hoopes is accused of firing two shots at his wife, Colleen Hoopes, in the couples bedroom. Hoopes was a well-known dancer for Ballet Arizona in Phoenix.

The Maricopa County Attorneys Office on Friday announced the charges against Hoopes for the May 24 killing, with interim County Attorney Rachel Mitchell noting that the victim in this case was an extremely talented dancer, beloved by her community.

A trial will begin later this year on Oct. 27. In addition to the second-degree murder charge, Christopher Hoopes also faces an unlawful discharge of a weapon charge.

Court documents say Hoopes phoned Tempe police right after the incident, telling them hed woken up startled and fired his gun off twice before realizing it was only his wife.

Family and friends of the ballet star have expressed shock at her death.

She has always been a true light in our lives. Its sad. This is all very sad, her father, Ed Buckley, told Fox 10 Phoenix.

You are stunned. Youre devastated. Its a nightmare you keep trying to wake up from, her mother Deb said in an interview with Arizonas Family. My heart has been ripped out of my chest and that pain is real.

The killing rocked the dance community just as hard, with tributes pouring in on social media from fellow dancers.

Nothing about this makes sense. Im absolutely heartbroken, Abby Maginity, a friend of Hoopes from Ballet Arizona, wrote on Facebook, calling the slain ballerina a special human and a true light.

Investigators reportedly based their decision to charge Christopher Hoopes with murder on audio of the shooting captured in surveillance footage of a nearby home. The audio is said to have revealed a two-second pause between the shots.

Its key that neighbors were able to help us and provide some of that feedback through surveillance and through recordings. That helps us to develop different probable cause than statements that were made and said, Detective Natalie Barela of the Tempe Police Department was quoted saying by Arizonas Family.

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Colleen Hoopes public Facebook profile is full of photos of the pair together, smiling. Her last publicly visible update revealed that the couple had been married less than two years at the time of her death.

Just married the Love of my Life, Christopher Hoopes! she wrote in the July 21, 2020 post, alongside a drawing of the two on their wedding day.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Crosses with the names of Tuesday's shooting victims are placed outside Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, on Thursday, May 26, 2022.

As the U.S. reels from another school shooting, much of the public discussion centers on the lives lost: 19 children and two adults. Indeed, the massacre at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas is the second deadliest such incident on record, after the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in 2012.

Since the Columbine massacre in 1999, in which two teenagers killed a dozen students and one teacher, at least 185 children, educators and others have been killed by gun violence at American schools, according to figures compiled by The Washington Post.

But this death toll captures only one part of the immense cost of gun violence in American schools. We have studied the long-term effects of school shootings on the health, education and economic futures of those who survive such incidents. Our research shows that despite often escaping without physical harm, the hundreds of thousands of children and educators who survive these tragedies carry scars that affect their lives for many years to come.

In a 2020 study, we analyzed 44 school shootings that took place in the U.S. between 2008 and 2013 to assess the impact the incidents had on students mental health. We found that antidepressant use among youth near schools that experienced shootings increased by over 20% following the event.

This increased use of antidepressants persisted for over three years, indicating that the deterioration in mental health among local adolescents was not temporary.

The effects were more pronounced when the school shootings included fatalities, suggesting that events like the massacre in Uvalde are likely to result in long-lasting health effects on survivors that extend beyond the physical injuries some have received.

But the mental health impacts of mass school shootings tell only part of the story. While deadly massacres like the one in Uvalde receive widespread media and public attention, many more acts of gun violence at schools are less fatal and less highly publicized. Indeed, figures from the Center for Homeland Defense and Security show that in 2021 alone there were 240 incidents in which a gun was either brandished or used in a school.

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Of all shootings that took place at U.S. schools in 2018 and 2019, nearly three-quarters had no fatalities. But that doesnt mean they dont have an impact.

To assess their effects, we studied fatal and non-fatal school shootings in Texas  taking a wider lens and considering acts of gun violence that frequently take place at schools but are unlikely to make national news.

Between 1995 and 2016, 33 Texas public schools experienced a shooting on school grounds during school hours  some schools had more than one.

Using detailed educational and labor market data, we compared the trajectories of students at schools that experienced shootings with those of students at schools that were similar in terms of institutional and student characteristics, such as demographic makeup and percentage of students from low-income backgrounds. But the comparison group of schools did not have a shooting over our study period.

We found that students who had been exposed to a shooting at school were more likely to be chronically absent and to be held back a grade in the two years after the event.

They were also significantly less likely to graduate high school, go to or graduate from college. The impacts extended into their early adult life. In their mid-20s, they were less likely to be employed and had lower earnings than their peers who had not been exposed to a shooting at school.

Eighteen of the 33 shootings we included in the study resulted in no fatalities, and no shootings resulted in more than one death. Yet, the negative impacts on peoples lives were profound. Our results reveal that each student exposed to a shooting could expect to earn S$115,550 less over the course of their lifetime.

The tragedy of the lives lost to gun violence in Americas schools cannot be overstated. But the data indicate that even those who escape these horrific events alive and without physical injuries are also victims.

These adverse impacts are observed in students exposed to mass shootings but also the more routine acts of gun violence in schools that rarely make the news. With an average of nearly 50,000 American students experiencing an act of gun violence at their school annually in recent years, our findings suggest that the aggregate costs of school gun violence in terms of lost lifetime earnings is nearly $5.8 billion. The full costs in terms of detriment to the mental health of tens of thousands of young people is harder to quantify.

So as we mourn the 21 lives lost in Uvalde, we must not forget about the hundreds of other students who were at the school that day. These students will be forced to live with the consequences of what happened for decades to come.

Maya Rossin-Slater is associate professor of Health Policy, Stanford University; Bokyung Kim is a PhD candidate in economics, The University of Texas at Austin College of Liberal Arts; Hannes Schwandt is assistant professor of Human Development and Social Policy, Northwestern University; Marika Cabral is associate professor of Economics, The University of Texas at Austin College of Liberal Arts; Molly Schnell is assistant professor of Economics, Northwestern University.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Thousands of school shooting survivors also are trauma victims
England batter Joe Root moved past 10,000 Test runs with a match-winning 115 not out against New Zealand.

He is only the second Englishman to the landmark, following Sir Alastair Cook, and here the PA news agency looks at Roots record.

Chasing Cook

(PA Graphics)

Roots astonishing 2021, in which he scored 1,708 runs at an average of 61, lifted him from seventh to second in the list of all-time England Test run-scorers, passing Geoffrey Boycott, Kevin Pietersen, David Gower, Alec Stewart and finally Graham Gooch.

And while Cooks final tally of 12,472 remains some way in the distance, Roots progress to five figures provides a reminder that he is far from finished after handing over the captaincy to Ben Stokes.

His 26 centuries also rank second behind Cook (33) while Roots average hovers around the 50 mark achieved by only eight England Test batters  Herbert Sutcliffe, Eddie Paynter, Ken Barrington, Wally Hammond, Sir Jack Hobbs, Sir Len Hutton, Ernest Tyldesley and Denis Compton. It is currently 49.57.

Back in the ranks

Root led England in 64 Tests (Jason OBrien/PA)

Root captained England in a record 64 Tests, making 5,295 runs at 46.45 in 118 innings.

That included double hundreds against Sri Lanka, New Zealand and India and 14 centuries in all.

Before taking the captaincy, he had made 4,594 runs at 52.80 in 98 innings with 11 hundreds.

The new regime has restored Root to the number four position where he has scored over half of his Test runs, a record that now stands at 5,305.

Favourite opponents

Joe Root celebrates a century against India at Headingley (Nigel French/PA)

India and Australia are Roots most frequent Test opponents and account for a significant share of his runs, with a strong record against the former in particular.

He has 2,353 runs at 60.33 against India and another 2,016 against Australia  albeit at 38.77, his lowest average against any opponent he has faced more than twice.

His efforts in the current New Zealand series mean he has now passed 1,000 runs against every opponent bar Bangladesh and Ireland, against whom he has played just two and one Tests respectively.

In addition to India, he averages over 50 against Sri Lanka (58.88), Pakistan (56.11), the West Indies (53.13) and South Africa (52.91).
With a pop like a potato chip bag bursting, the plastic bags holding hundreds of itty-bitty tree seeds exploded like confetti across the vacuum chamber.

Its February 1971, and astronaut Stuart Roosa has just returned from flying the Apollo 14 mission to the moon.

Loblolly Pine, Sycamore and Sweet Gum seeds, all three natives to Texas, traveled 238,900 miles into space tucked neatly into Command Module pilot Roosas personal items. The U.S. Forest Service chose five North American tree species for the journey.

Roosa had an early connection with nature. At 17, he joined the forest service to prevent wildfires and preserve forests. Overcoming a fear of heights, Roosa successfully became a smoke jumper  an elite group of fire fighters that parachute into otherwise inaccessible wilderness areas. The thrill of flying and mission-oriented work appealed to Roosa, soon set on a life in the air.

Roosas path from conservation to NASA went by way of becoming a U.S. Air Force pilot. Completing gunnery training at Del Rio AFB in Texas, Roosa earned his wings at Williams AFB in Arizona. In 1966, Roosa joined the Apollo program.

Astronaut Stuart Roosa with his canister of Moon tree seeds. Although the seeds never made a landing, they orbited the Moon 34 times while aboard Apollo 14 in 1971.

When Edward P. Cliff, 9th Chief of the forest service, heard Roosa was part of the Apollo 14 mission, he dreamed up the Moon Tree project. They collaborated with geneticist Stan Krugman, also of the forest service, who chose seeds from the Institute of Forest Genetics. The projects goal was two-fold: to increase public awareness of smoke jumpers and the forestry service and to explore if time in space impacted a trees ability to grow on Earth.

In January 1971, Roosa flew the Kitty Hawk module in 34 circles around the moon. Alone with the seeds and the hum of electronics, he completed several research projects while his fellow astronauts, Alan Shepard and Edgar Mitchell, conducted the lunar landing.

Upon returning successfully to earth, the astronauts and their belongings were quarantined for over two weeks and exposed to decontamination in a vacuum chamber. Undaunted when the bags exploded, Stan Krugman and colleagues rescued each delicate seed.

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Krugman mailed the seeds to the care of Dr. Charles Walkinshaw, an agricultural scientist at Houstons Johnson Space Center. To their delight, the seeds sprouted. For the bicentennial, many Moon Trees were planted in community parks, universities and government offices across the United States. Citizens who gazed at unreachable stars could now touch a tree that had come closer to galactic heaven than most living beings.

In Texas, its believed a sycamore was planted around 1976 at the Brazos County Arboretum, which died unexpectedly. A second sycamore was planted in 1978 on private land near Westlake. A third may live near Hockley.

The Moon Tree Foundation, a nonprofit set up by Stuart Roosas daughter Rosemary, inspires youth involvement in space science and nature conservation by planting trees. These half-moon or second generation moon trees are grown from seeds or cuttings of the original trees. The foundation lists two trees, a Loblolly pine and a Sycamore at Rice University, and Loblolly pines at Texas A&M University, and NASAs Johnson Space Center in Houston.

Todays astronauts still take inspiration from Apollo 14s curiosity for nature in space. This April, Texas master naturalist and NASA astronaut Kjell Lindgren took off with SpaceXs Crew-4 for the International Space Station.

Crew-4 will spend the next six months in space collaborating on over 200 experiments, from plant science to medical studies and sustainable concrete materials. Lindgren was among the first astronauts in 2015 to eat lettuce grown onboard the International Space Station.

The seeds carried over 50 years ago were humanitys first shot at taking a green bit of home into the unknown. The astronauts of today are finding out just how far we might go.

Upcoming Big Country Master Naturalist events:

 June 18: Cedar Creek Waterway Hike, 100 block of East South 11th Street, 9 a.m.

 June 18: Star party at Abilene State Park, 8:30-10:30 p.m., weather permitting.

Annabelle Moore is a member of the Big Country Texas Master Naturalist chapter. Learn more about the Texas Master Naturalist program at txmn.tamu.edu and facebook.com/BCTXMN.

This article originally appeared on Abilene Reporter-News: What we learned when an astronaut took tree seeds to space
As the country grapples with yet another shooting that left four dead in at a medical center in Tulsa, Oklahoma, eyes are on Congress to see how representatives will respond to calls for changing the countrys gun laws.

But in the more than two decades since the Columbine High School shooting, most gun reforms have taken place at the state level.

Those state-level measures can only go so far, said Monisha Henley, senior director for state affairs at gun control advocacy group Everytown for Gun Safety. When Everytown ranks gun safety policies across the country the group also has to consider the laws of neighboring states.

The reason that Illinois, even with strong gun laws, may not be the California or New York is because theyre neighbors with a state like Indiana, which is not taking this seriously, that are deregulating their laws. Henley said.

Mass shootings: There have already been a dozen mass shootings this year: 'We're in a paralysis'

Changing gun laws: The calls for gun reform follow every school shooting: Here's what they've led to

'A bad day for hope': Another school shooting. More dead kids. Why gun control advocates see no end in sight

Here are five states that passed significant gun legislation after a deadly attack:

Connecticut

The shooting: The deadliest school shooting the countrys history left 26 dead, including 20 children, after a gunman opened fire at Sandy Hook Elementary School in 2012.

The response: The Connecticut General Assembly established a Gun Violence and Childrens Safety Task Force responsible for holding public hearings and delivering proposals for gun control and school safety.

Evil visited this community today and its too early to speak of recovery, but each parent, each sibling, each member of the family has to understand that Connecticut  were all in this together, Dannel Malloy, Connecticuts governor at the time, said. Well do whatever we can to overcome this event.

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In the months following the shooting lawmakers drafted a 139-page bill, which:

Added more than 100 firearms to the state's list of banned assault weapons.

Banned the sale or purchase of ammunition magazines with capacities of more than 10 rounds.

Required background checks for all gun sales.

The Sandy Hook shooting renewed the national debate around gun control as a growing number of gun control advocacy groups lobbied the White House and Congress to introduce gun control legislation.

What happened: Four months after the deadly shooting, Connecticut lawmakers passed its comprehensive gun control legislation, with Malloy signing it into law just hours after the it won approval from the General Assembly.

Daniel Defense: Team from Sandy Hook gun suit seeking answers on Uvalde AR-15 marketing

California

The shooting: Gunmen  armed with assault rifles and handguns  opened fire during an event at the Inland Regional Center located in San Bernardino, California, in 2015, leaving 14 dead and 22 injured.

The response: In the wake of the San Bernardino shooting, California lawmakers looked to introduce a comprehensive package to revise the states gun laws and revisit previously stalled proposals, including a bill that would have closed the loophole allowing semiautomatic guns to have recessed bullet button.

One of the semiautomatic rifles recovered was fitted with a bullet button.

Among the new proposals and previously stalled bills reconsidered after the shooting were:

Outlawing the manufacturing and sale of all semiautomatic weapons with the capacity to be fitted with a detachable magazine.

Requiring background checks for those buying ammunition.

Banning firearms with the holding capacity of more than 10 rounds.

Requiring homemade guns to be registered with the state.

What happened: Nearly seven months after the shooting in San Bernardino, Gov. Jerry Brown signed six new gun laws into law.

With the new pieces of legislation, the state closed the loophole allowing bullet buttons on semiautomatic weapons  a measure Brown previously vetoed in 2013, during another gun law reform effort.

The state also passed measures to restrict firearms with the capacity of holding more than 10 rounds, to require a background check when purchasing ammunition and to restrict straw purchasing, which is when an individual purchases a weapon legally but gives or sells it to another individual.

Brown also vetoed several other bills, including one that would have made it a felony to steal a gun, saying that a similar measure was slated to appear on the state ballot later that year.

Age limit buy a semi-automatic rifle?: Uvalde has House pushing a minimum age increase from 18

Florida

The shooting: Seventeen people were killed at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in 2018 after a gunman opened fire on the school with an AR-15-styled rifle.

The response: A gun reform movement was launched in the aftermath of the school shooting in Parkland  which took place almost two years after a mass shooting at an Orlando nightclub that killed 49 people.

The movement, which also launched March for Our Lives, was led by a group of Marjory Stoneman Douglas students, including David Hogg, Emma Gonzalez, Jaclyn Corin, Cameron Kasky and Alex Wind.

During the aftermath of the shooting, Florida lawmakers worked on bipartisan legislation with proposals including:

Creating a program to arm some school officials.

Requiring a three-day waiting period for the majority of long gun purchases.

Raising the minimum age to purchase those weapons to 21.

Banning the possession and sale of bump stocks.

What happened: After weeks of debate, Florida lawmakers approved the bill in a bipartisan vote despite opposition from the National Rifle Association and then-Gov. Rick Scott signed the legislation into law.

Along with the increased age minimum and imposing a three-day wait period, the legislation also created a red flag law, which allows authorities to confiscate or temporality bar the purchase of firearms from individuals who are deemed dangerous.

In the days following the Texas school shooting, Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., voiced approval for Floridas gun laws passed after Parkland.

The Florida law is a good law and its a signal of whats possible, said Murphy, who is a vocal advocate for gun control legislation. It married together, changes to Floridas gun laws, with some significant investments in mental health and school security.

Despite Floridas recent improvement to its gun laws, progress as stalled since 2018 and its considered to be missing key gun laws, according to Everytown for Gun Safety.

Arming teachers: Ohio Gov. DeWine set to sign bill requiring only 24 hours of training for teachers to carry firearms

Colorado

The shooting: A 21-year-old man opened fire in a Boulder grocery store in March 2021, killing 10 people. Ten days before the shooting, Boulder had voted to ban assault weapons, but the measure was blocked in court.

The court ruled that the city couldnt ban assault weapons due to a preemption law that prohibits cities from passing stricter gun laws than the state.

The response: In the weeks following the shooting inside the King Soopers grocery store, state lawmakers proposed a series of bills in an attempt to curb gun violence.

Among the proposed measures:

Requiring individuals to safely store firearms and report any loss of stolen firearms.

Tightening an already-existing law that allows the removal of firearms from individuals charged with domestic violence.

Establishing an office of gun violence prevention for the state.

Banning individuals with violent misdemeanors, including child abuse convictions and sexual assault, from purchasing a firearm for five years.

What happened: Colorado lawmakers passed the series of bills and Gov. Jared Polis signed the legislation into law just weeks after the shooting.

The state also passed a bill overturning Colorados preemption law, making the Centennial State the first in the country to do so, and allowing cities to set stricter gun regulations than the state.

Despite the numerous gun laws passed in the aftermath of the 2021 shooting, lawmakers didnt propose or attempt to pass a statewide assault weapons ban. Colorado State Senate President Steve Fenberg, a Democrat from Boulder, told 9 News that while he supports a state-level assault weapons ban, it wouldnt be as effective as a federal law.

We could pass an assault weapon ban at the state level. I support that. But is that going to save the most lives? Probably not, given the fact that we are just one state, Fenberg said. There are probably tens of thousands of assault weapons already here and you can drive an hour-and-a-half north and purchase them.

Evolving police strategy: In Boulder shooting, Eric Talley answered 'most dangerous call' in law enforcement.

New York

The shooting: Ten Black people were killed in a shooting at a Tops Friendly Market in Buffalo May 15. Authorities said the gunman targeted a predominately Black community and he was inspired by a racist theory.

The response: In the aftermath of the Buffalo grocery store shooting, New York lawmakers, including Gov. Kathy Hochul, put together a package of bills that would further tighten the states already strict gun laws.

The legislative package would include:

Raising the age minimum to buy a semiautomatic rifle to 21.

Requiring a gun license to purchase a semiautomatic rifle.

Prohibiting the sale and purchase of body armor for individuals not in law enforcement.

Strengthening the states red flag laws, which work to remove firearms from individual who pose a threat to themselves or others.

Currently the state only requires licenses and permits for New Yorkers looking to purchase a handgun.

One of the proposed bills would also create a new task force within the attorney generals office to investigate the role of social media in promoting and facilitating violent extremism and domestic terrorism online, according to the governors office.

What happened: The New York legislature passed the package of gun laws Thursday night nearly three weeks after the mass shooting at the Buffalo grocery store.

Congress responds: Uvalde and Buffalo survivors, families to testify before House Oversight committee on mass shootings

More coverage from USA TODAY

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: New gun control laws after mass shootings: Change comes at state level
Juan Carlos Padilla of Ben Archer Health Center, center, receives the Rising Public Health Hero Award from New Mexico State Universitys Department of Public Health Sciences. Padilla, an NMSU alumnus who recently earned a masters degree in public health, stands with Frances Scappaticci, left, also of Ben Archer Health Center, and Hector Luis Diaz, head of NMSUs Department of Public Health Sciences.

LAS CRUCES - New Mexico State Universitys Department of Public Health Sciences honored three individuals for their work over the past year in promoting mental health awareness, community resilience, climate change action and public health workforce.

The NMSU Public Health Heroes Awards, now in its eighth year, recognize and celebrate local public health heroes for their ongoing contributions and commitments to public health. This year, Humaira Rahman, assistant professor of public health sciences, led the award ceremony.

Hector Luis Diaz, head of NMSUs Department of Public Health Sciences in the College of Health, Education and Social Transformation, presented the awards in May with others from the department, including Rahman, Jagdish Kubchandani, professor, and Cindy Kratzke, associate professor emeritus.

More from NMSU: NMSU Art Museum grant approved by NEA to support fall exhibition

We celebrate in April each year the National Public Health Week. Our department is honored to recognize locally our dedicated community partners, Rahman said. Thank you for your work to protect, promote and provide great efforts for healthier communities.

Recipients for this years Public Health Heroes Awards included:

Jardin de Los Ninos received the Community Organization/Program Public Health Hero Award. The award recognizes an organization or program that provides excellent services and integrates the value of health into the community.

Jardin de Los Ninos is a Las Cruces-based nonprofit that serves homeless and near homeless children and their families through child care, education and community resources. It has a five-star early childhood educational program certified by the FOCUS Program of New Mexico.

Michelle Saenz-Adames, CEO of Jardin de Los Ninos, accepted the award on behalf of the organization.

Dave DuBois, state climatologist for New Mexico, received the individual Public Health Hero Award. The award recognizes a recipient who provides distinguished services to the community and significant contributions as a leader in developing healthier communities.

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David DuBois, state climatologist for New Mexico, receives the Community Leader Public Health Hero Award from New Mexico State Universitys Department of Public Health Sciences. DuBois stands with Hector Luis Diaz, head of NMSUs Department of Public Health Sciences.

As a state climatologist, DuBois assesses the effects of climate on the natural environment, agricultural production, land and natural resources, and human health in New Mexico. His duties include providing climatological data services and assessments and climate information and education to the public through speaking engagements, school demonstrations and tours.

DuBois also teaches in NMSUs Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences in the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences. His research interests center around the effects of meteorology and climate on air quality.

More from NMSU: NMSU among universities in new NSF program for Resilient and Intelligent NextG Systems

Juan Carlos Padilla, an NMSU alumnus who recently earned a masters degree in public health, received the Rising Public Health Hero Award. The award recognizes a rising public health professional in Dona Ana County who promotes healthy communities.

Padilla now works at Ben Archer Health Center in Columbus, New Mexico. Ben Archer is health care provider that has 11 locations in southern New Mexico. Its mission is to improve the health status of underserved populations through illness prevention and promoting health education.

Jill McDonald, a public health sciences professor at NMSU and Padillas mentor, attended his award celebration and praised his work outside the classroom. McDonald said Padilla is making a lasting public health impact through his efforts at Ben Archer.

For more information about the awards, contact Rahman at hrahman@nmsu.edu.

Carlos Andres Lopez writes for New Mexico State University Marketing and Communications and can be reached at 575-646-1955, or by email at carlopez@nmsu.edu.

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This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: NMSU presents eighth annual Public Health Heroes Awards
Northern Ireland must hope it is 13th time lucky in the Nations League as their latest outing ended in a drab goalless draw against Cyprus.

Ian Baracloughs side took only their third ever point in the competition but the performance and the result was a long way from what they  and the 600 travelling fans  had expected against a side ranked 105th in the world after the setback of Thursdays 1-0 home defeat to Greece.

Ali McCann missed a sitter in the final moments but, given how many chances Cyprus had squandered, Northern Ireland had to be grateful not to have been playing better opposition.

Significant improvement will be required against Kosovo  2-0 winners here three days ago  in Pristina on Thursday.

Baraclough handed Kyle Lafferty his first competitive start since October 2020 and gave a full debut to Shea Charles as he made four changes, but despite the fresh faces, Thursdays problems of misplaced passes and disjointed play were apparent from the start.

Charles had said he was surprised to make his debut as a 79th minute substitute against Greece, but if he was shocked about moving straight into the starting line-up it did not show as he comfortably stroked the ball around in front of a back four.

Northern Irelands problems came whenever they tried to move it forward.

Neofytos Michael (centre) kept a clean sheet against Northern Ireland (Petros Karadjias/AP)

Lafferty, who was a target of the home fans all night after a brief spell in Cyprus with Anorthosis Famagusta last year before his return to Kilmarnock, played with intent but was well marshalled by Cyprus back three as Northern Ireland struggled to give him any service.

When they did create a chance in the 12th minute it fell to George Saville, yet to score an international goal after 39 caps, and he scooped Paddy McNairs cross high and wide.

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Cyprus were looking more dangerous on the break, with the 18-year-old Loizos Loizou  who plays for Neil Lennon at Omonia Nicosia  their brightest spark as he gave Paddy Lane and Ciaron Brown a thorough examination on the left of Northern Irelands defence.

Loizou tested Bailey Peacock-Farrell in the 17th minute, then skipped away from Jonny Evans only to lose his balance as he prepared to shoot.

Northern Irelands best move saw Lane and Niall McGinn work space for a Saville cross on the left, but Gavin Whyte could only get the faintest touch on the ball before it was worked back for a Charles effort that was deflected wide for a corner.

Ali McCann (left) missed a sitter in the final moments (Petros Karadjias/AP)

And Northern Ireland were grateful not to be trailing at the break as Cyprus defender Fanos Katelaris rattled the crossbar with a shot from distance.

There was a bright start to the second half as Northern Ireland pushed forward with some slicker play.

But after Whytes shot was held by Neofytos Michael, they were lucky not to be caught on the break as Ioannis Pittas raced clear, only to stumble and be robbed of the ball by the tireless Steven Davis.

Grigoris Kastanos then flashed a shot over before Peacock-Farrell was required to deny Marinos Tzionis with a smart save at his near post.

Baraclough handed out two more debuts as Brodie Spencer and Conor McMenamin came on just after the hour, then turned to Shayne Lavery inside the final 15 minutes.

Chances came at both ends in a frantic finale. Pavlos Korrea somehow dragged a shot wide from eight yards out before McCann, running on to McMenamins cross, side-footed the wrong side of the post from point-blank range.

The final whistle was greeted by some jeers from the away end before applause broke out on another hugely-frustrating night for the Green and White Army.
Photo Illustration by Luis G. Rendon/The Daily Beast/ Nicolas Espinosa

By Michael McAuliff | KHN

Nicolas Espinosas hopes for his 11-year-old daughter, Julia, are basic and profound: He wants her to stay alive and perhaps be able to eat normally someday.

And she might, if she can get three organs transplantedand if the U.S. immigration system doesnt get in the way.

In a case that reflects the significant and often heartbreaking failures in how the U.S. welcomes newcomers to the country, the Espinosas are confronting not just the nations complicated and expensive health-care maze, but an immigration system that Congress has not reformed for decades. Despite calls for coherent reform, immigration policy has been largely set through scattershot legislation and whipsawing administrative actions, often modified by the courts.

That chaotic reality is threatening an American girls life.

Julia was born in Miami when her parents were attending college on student visas. She had a birth defect called volvulusa twisted small intestineand doctors saved her as a baby by removing most of the organ. Never able to eat normally, Julia has survived by getting carefully crafted daily infusions of nutrients through an intravenous port in her chest, Espinosa said.

Its extremely expensive and specialized care that Espinosa said Julia could not get in his home country of Ecuador, where they had planned to return. Instead, the family moved to Seattle 10 years ago to be near Seattle Childrens Hospital, where specialists can manage Julias nutritional needs well. Still, getting nutrition through infusions is not something the human body was designed for, and it has done damage to her internal organs. She is on transplant lists for the small intestine she lost at birth, and to replace her deteriorating liver and pancreas.

Their daughters health circumstances would be challenging enough, but Espinosa and his wife, Maria Saenz, face an additional strugglean ongoing battle with immigration authorities to stay and work in the U.S. legally.

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For the second time in three years, Espinosa faces the prospect of losing permission to work, which would cost him not only his job providing tech support at a software company, but also his health insurance. Without health insurance, his daughter would lose her eligibility for transplants.

We are relying on the current health insurance to keep her on the transplant list, Espinosa said. If I cannot keep my health insurance, then my daughter might not be eligible for a transplant.

Espinosa is acutely aware of his precarious position, and acted early to renew his immigration status, known as medical deferred action. Its a category in which the government says it will defer trying to deport someone so they can deal with a severe illness. People who have action deferred can also apply for a work permit. Espinosa applied to renew his deferred action in November, even though his current deferment was good until the end of July.

He heard nothing back from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, however, until just recently, and the approval came only after inquiries to the agency from members of Congress and a reporter.

The family still cant rest easy, though. Espinosas application for a new work permit has not yet been approved. He can still lose his job and insurance at the end of July if the new permit is not granted in time, which is far from a certainty.

A spokesperson for Seattle Childrens Hospital indicated officials there would work with the Espinosas to care for Julia if there is a lapse in her insurance, though her place in line on the transplant lists might have to be put on hold, leaving Espinosa to scramble for backup options like Medicaid.

Even with the remaining uncertaintya long gap in coverage could still prove catastrophicEspinosa said he is much more hopeful than he was just a week earlier, since work permits generally are granted with deferred action status. And uncertainty is something Espinosa has gotten used to in a country where there seems to be no rational system to deal with migrant families facing health crises.

The problem is that there is no legal framework behind what I have, Espinosa said. Deferred action is not a visa, its just a decision from the government not to deport.

After doctors removed her small intestine as a baby, Julia Espinosa has survived by getting daily infusions of nutrients through an intravenous port in her chest. Her father, Nicolas Espinosa, says she could not get that kind of specialized care in his home country of Ecuador. Photos courtesy Nicolas Espinosa

If doctors can keep Julia alive, the family will face the same frightening prospect of losing legal status when this new deferral ends in two years.

Exactly how many other families face similar circumstances is not clear. Katie Tichacek, a spokesperson for the citizenship agency, would not provide data showing how often such cases arise, and no statistics are publicly available. Data obtained by WBUR after Massachusetts lawmakers asked for it in 2020 said that there were more than 700 requests nationwide for deferred action for medical reasons in 2018 and that fewer than half were approved. Those numbers plummeted in 2019.

That was when Julia faced the first immigration-related threat to her life. At the time, the Trump administration suspended all medical deferred action. Facing lawsuits and a public outcry, the administration relented, but Espinosa couldnt work legally for a year and a half. Working off the books could have put him in further jeopardy. He said they survived on mercy and family support from relatives in Ecuador.

It hasn't been a life of gloom and doom, though. The family has managed Julias condition so that she goes to school when there are no pandemic restrictions, they travel, and she pursues her interests. Aside from being unable to survive by eating, she's like any other girl.

We've tried to live 100 percent, because weve been lucky to have Julia so far, Espinosa said. Weve been always told that she might not make it. It was originally the first month of her life, then it was the first year, and then its two years, and then the next whatever period.

Theyve beaten the odds by doing anything and everything that is in their control. What isnt in their control is the federal bureaucracy. Were here still, but, yeah, we have to fight immigration, Espinosa said.

Even some of the things that are in their control, like choosing where to live to give Julia the best shot, can be problematic. Espinosa said some other states and regions of the country tend to have greater availability of organs. While Julia remains stable, staying where they are makes the most sense. The calculus would change if the deterioration of Julias liver were to accelerate.

If that is the case, then we have to contemplate how are we going to be treated in these other states, Espinosa said. Like for example, getting a simple thing like your drivers license, its not that simple when you have deferred action.

Mahsa Khanbabai, a board member for the American Immigration Lawyers Association, said the problem that Espinosa and other people in obvious need face is that Citizenship and Immigration Services is overwhelmed. An increasingly centralized and underfunded bureaucracy is not up to the task. This is a very good example of a broken system, Khanbabai said, noting that many more people are in less dramatic but similar situations. Theres just a lot of heartbreak that could easily be fixed with immigration reform.

Tichacek said in a statement that the agency does not comment on specific cases but that it is committed to promoting policies and procedures that protect those most vulnerable and is working hard to rebuild trust with immigrants and expand access to vital immigration services.

Espinosa is all too aware that even with media attention, legal assistance, and help from lawmakers, his family could still fall through the cracks. He doesnt know what could happen then, but he will use whatever tools he can to save his child.

I don't know what Ill need, and Ill do whatever it takes, he said.

KHN (Kaiser Health News) is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues. Together with Policy Analysis and Polling, KHN is one of the three major operating programs at KFF (Kaiser Family Foundation). KFF is an endowed nonprofit organization providing information on health issues to the nation.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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A recent utilization review by researchers at the Spine medical journal revealed that within a 12-month period, only 8.4% of Americans utilized treatment by a doctor of chiropractic in order to address some level of spine-related pain. Delaware legislators, public health officials and health care professionals are hoping to increase this number however, as they work on policies to improve the utilization, insurance coverage and access to alternative pain management therapies in an effort to help combat the opioid epidemic plaguing our state and nation. Chiropractic, in particular, may play a significant role in these changes because of the relationship between spine pain, specifically low back pain, and opiate-prescribing patterns.

Currently, low back pain ranks as the leading cause of disability worldwide. In the United States, it is the second most common reason for a visit to the doctors office, second only to upper respiratory infections. Non-cancer or mechanically based spine pain has particularly drawn a high correlation with opiate prescribing, with past studies showing that 61% of spine pain patients will receive an opiate prescription with nearly 19% of those having an episode of long term opiate use. Additionally, statistically, every 1 in 550 patients who is prescribed opiates will die of an overdose within 2.6 years following their first opiate prescription. That rate of death is even more dramatic as dosages increase, escalating to 1 in 32 for patients receiving more than 200 morphine milligram equivalents.

Despite the fact that chiropractic has always been a drug-free and surgery-free form of treatment throughout the entirety of its 100-plus-year history, its utilization has always remained relatively low with the general population and in the traditional medical community, even as the over-prescription and over-reliance on opiate-based pain medications grew in the last two decades. The reason its coming into focus now, though, is because of the correlation between patients who undergo treatment with a chiropractor and a reduced need and reduced usage of opiate-based painkillers and other pharmaceuticals.

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In New Hampshire, where the drug overdose death rate is one of the highest in the United States, researchers were able to document a 55% reduction in opioid usage with patients who went to a chiropractor versus those who did not. Another study focusing on Medicare beneficiaries determined that higher utilization of chiropractic therapy resulted in a decreased rate of opioid prescriptions, while an even earlier study linked a reduction of 85% in pharmaceutical spending for chiropractic patients compared with non-patients.

Delaware policy makers know that they have an uphill battle in trying to increase the use of alternative pain management therapies, especially chiropractic, among the general public. They have already made significant strides into coverage changes with the passing of Senate Bill 225, a 2019 law that prohibited insurance companies from denying coverage for chiropractic treatment for chronic back pain. Additionally, the Department of Public Health has developed HelpisHereDE.com, an online resource created in conjunction with numerous local health care professionals. Through this website, the general public, as well as providers in the medical field, can gain additional information and get help with all of the various components surrounding opiate addiction, including guidelines on the utilization of non-pharmaceutical methods of managing chronic pain. Despite these advancements, limited exposure to chiropractic and misinformation has created limited education among the public and especially medical providers, and has left them with two major questions; is it effective and is it safe?

The answer to both of those questions is emphatically yes. With regards to its effectiveness, chiropractic and spinal manipulation have consistently been shown to yield high clinical success rates. In fact, research from the Spine journal has rated chiropractic as superior in comparison to usual medical care, physical therapy, and exercise regiments when it comes to treating certain types of spine pain. This is combined with the fact that chiropractic treatment plans are on average 40% less costly than episodes of treatment initiated with a medical doctor.

In addition to being highly effective in treating back pain, chiropractic has also proven to be one of the safest options. Even with the high velocity, low amplitude (HVLA) thrusts and popping noises that come with certain forms of chiropractic adjusting, the incidence of adverse events associated with chiropractic treatment is one of the lowest in all of healthcare. One study from 2015 evaluated over 1 million Medicare patients over the course of more than 10 million office visits. They determined that there was no mechanism by which spinal manipulation induces injury in normal healthy tissues. Surprisingly, they also concluded that the risk of injury to the head, neck, or trunk was actually 76% lower in patients who went to a chiropractor versus those who went to a primary care physician. They did caution the utilization of chiropractic in patients with certain pre-existing conditions though, specifically those patients with a history of chronic coagulation defect, long-term use of anticoagulant therapy, inflammatory spondylopathy, and aortic aneurysm and dissection.

Delaware legislators are also hoping that chiropractors unique position in the marketplace will help them to reduce the burden on primary care offices, urgent care clinics, and emergency departments. Unlike most other forms of alternative pain management and physical therapists, doctors of chiropractic have no portal of entry constraints, meaning that for most patients a referral is not required to make an appointment. Additionally, they are able to diagnose and manage care, refer patients for advanced testing including MRIs or CT scans, as well as co-manage care with surgeons, orthopedic specialists, and traditional pain management doctors. Most insurance plans currently offer coverage for chiropractic treatment as well.

Ultimately, the hope is to give patients improved insurance coverage and easier access to alternative pain management treatments like chiropractic which will reduce the odds that they will end up with an opiate prescription. As of 2019, Delawares opiate prescribing patterns have improved but are still fairly high, with an average of 51.6 opiate prescriptions per 100 people according to the CDC. This is a significantly higher rate than the national average.

Through greater acceptance and education among the medical community, Delawareans should find it easier to utilize alternative therapies that will not only reduce their pain levels, but also limit their exposure to potentially dangerous and addictive medications.

Dr. Travis McKay is a chiropractor and the clinical director of Advanced Back & Neck Pain Center in Newark. He is also the president of Hands For Life  Omega Drive, a Newark based nonprofit aimed at providing non-pharmacological pain management for members of the community. He can be reached at 302-368-1300 or at drtravismckay@advancedback.com.

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Chiropractors may play key role in combating opioid epidemic
National attention has turned, once again, to the gun debate following the horrific events at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, last month.

One day prior to the school shooting that killed 19 children and two adults, the Kansas Legislature adjourned without taking action on proposed bills aimed to ban so-called ghost guns, like the one used in the shooting at Olathe East High School in March of this year.

Ghost guns are firearms that dont have serial numbers. Usually, they are privately assembled from parts ordered via the internet or 3-D printed. These types of untraceable firearms are virtually impossible to regulate.

Ghost guns are thought to be widespread, and production of them has only increased in recent years. According to a report by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, about 20,000 were recovered by law enforcement in 2021.

The availability of ghost guns makes it easier for those banned from owning a firearm by Kansas law to gain access to guns  ownership prohibitions include felony convictions, domestic violence offenses and protection orders, substance abuse, extreme mental health diagnoses, and (with some exceptions) possession by a minor under the age of 18.

The ability to purchase gun kits or 3-D printing instructions from the internet circumvent these reasonable restrictions on firearm possession.

In fact, these restrictions  and some even more stringent policies  are extremely popular with Kansas voters.

The 2019 Kansas Speaks survey, conducted by the Docking Institute for Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University, found that 88% of Kansans support requiring background checks on all gun sales  currently Kansas only requires background checks for sales conducted through a licensed dealer. And 85.5% supported preventing sales to individuals who have been deemed dangerous by mental health providers.

Nearly 74% supported not allowing people who have been convicted of violent misdemeanors to purchase firearms. And just under 70% thought that only those above 21 years of age should be able to purchase a gun.

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If most Kansans support the laws that these ghost guns circumvent, then why didnt the Legislature pass the ban?

Some on the gun safety side of the debate will point to lobbying efforts by gun rights organizations, like the National Rifle Association and similar groups. However, this is an incomplete explanation.

Over the past several years they have been consistently outspent by gun safety groups, like Moms Demand Action. Despite the weakening of the spending power of gun rights groups, their political power is still strong.

Research in political science shows that gun owners participate in politics more than nonowners. They vote, donate money, contact elected officials and discuss politics more than citizens who dont own firearms. Especially when it comes to gun issues.

Furthermore, rural gun owners are even more participatory on gun issues than their urban and suburban counterparts.

As such, gun rights organizations dont have to bother dumping loads of money into the Legislature to prevent the passage of gun safety legislation because their supporters are a well-organized minority.

Lawmakers arent going to vote for a bill that their most vocal and engaged constituents oppose. Doing so would all but guarantee a primary challenger in the next election cycle.

Supporting even the most reasonable gun control legislation as a member of the Republican Party  whos most ardent supporters tend to be gun rights activists  is difficult.

Its easier, and safer, to let such a bill die in committee. Which is exactly what happened with both ghost gun bills during this legislative session.

Alexandra Middlewood is an assistant professor of political science at Wichita State University.

This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: Kansas legislators let bills die rather than anger gun-rights voters
Retired Wisconsin Judge John Roemer was shot and killed Friday in his home.

The Wisconsin Department of Justice said in a news release that the incident appears to be a targeted act and that it is investigating further.

A man identified as Douglas K. Uhde resisted attempts by police to negotiate after a person who had exited Roemers home called law enforcement to report that an armed man was present and two gunshots had been fired in the residence, according to the department.

Officers entered the house and found Uhde in the basement with a gunshot wound that the department said appeared to be self-inflicted.

Uhde is in critical condition and is being treated at a hospital after initial emergency measures taken by police, according to the Wisconsin Department of Justice.

Police recovered a firearm from the house, the department said.

Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul (D) said the suspect appeared to have had other targets in addition to Roemer, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported.

Sources told the outlet that those targets included Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers (D). CNN reported, citing sources familiar with the investigation, that Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) was also one of the suspects targets, and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmers (D) office confirmed to the network that she was among them as well.

Yesterday our office was notified by law enforcement officials that Governor Whitmers name appeared on the Wisconsin gunmans list. While the news reports are deeply troubling, we will not comment further on an ongoing criminal investigation, Whitmers office said, according to CNN.

This follows a string of high-profile shootings in recent weeks, including massacres in Buffalo, N.Y., and Uvalde, Texas.

An 18-year-old gunman killed 19 children and two adults last week at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde after shooting his grandmother and taking her car.

Ten days before that attack, another shooter killed 10 at a Buffalo supermarket in a racially motivated attack.

The shootings have motivated a renewed push for gun control measures among Democratic lawmakers, while Republicans have focused on issues such as school security and mental health.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The Covington Police Department is searching for a missing 9-year-old named Ian Sousis.

A 9-year-old boy who was reported missing from the Children's Home of Northern Kentucky on Saturday morning was found dead that afternoon in the Ohio River.

Covington police said units were dispatched at 9:30 a.m. after they were notified that a child walked away from the Children's Home in Devou Park.

Police said Ian Sousis had walked away before and had been found in the Covington area that has a cluster of fast-food restaurants, including McDonald's, Gold Star, and Skyline.

At around 1:45 p.m., boaters located a body floating in the Ohio River. The body was later confirmed to be Ian, police said.

According to officials, he was recovered in the area of the Villa Hills Marina.

Villa Hills Police Chief Bryan Allen said Monday morning that his department is handling the death investigation because of where Ian's body was found.

Allen said investigators are awaiting the coroner's investigation results.

The Enquirer has left messages by phone and email for Rick Wurth, the chief executive officer of the Children's Home of Northern Kentucky. The nonprofit organization provides residential and outpatient mental and behavioral health services for children and families. They operate campuses in Covington and Burlington.The Enquirer also contacted the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Covington police: Missing 9-year-old found dead in Ohio River
The Arizona Cardinals announced the signing of former Kansas City Chiefs running back Darrel Williams this past week, solidifying the running room with proven production behind starter James Conner.

Williams signed a one-year deal after playing four seasons for the Chiefs.

He had his best season in 2021 with over 1,000 total yards from scrimmage and was one of seven players in the league to have at least 500 rushing yards and 400 receiving yards.

We now have the details of his contract through Over the Cap. We go over those details  salary, signing bonus and guarantees, as well as the implications to the salary cap below.

Darrel Williams salary, contract details

Williams signed a one-year deal with a total of almost $1.19 million.

He receives a signing bonus of $152,500.

He will earn $1.04 million in salary and $895,000 of that salary is fully guaranteed.

Salary cap information, cap hit

Williams deal is like many players contracts on the roster. His contract qualifies for the veteran benefit, meaning the cap hit is less than the money paid out, which is not normally the case with one-year contracts.

While he is being paid a total of almost $1.19 million, his cap hit will only be $1.05 million. That is a cap savings of $140,000.

This contract has the potential to give the Cardinals the same type of value that James Conner did last year, which led to his getting a new three-year contract to return to the Cardinals and their starting running back.

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Cardinals need big play from these 4th-year players in 2022

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The Liberty Alliance, a conservative Missouri group, has designated 12 "woke" school hotspots, including one in Springfield.

The Springfield district was singled out on a list of "woke" Missouri school hotspots by a far-right conservative organization.

The Missouri-based Liberty Alliance identified 12 hotspots  one of which is the state as a whole, which it alleges interjects critical race theory into schools through diversity, equity and inclusion efforts.

There are six hotspots in the St. Louis area and three in the Kansas City area. There is one in Columbia.

Springfield is the only hotspot in the southern half of Missouri.

The slang term "woke" commonly refers to being aware of and attentive to important issues  especially related to racial and social justice. Among conservatives, the term has been used as an insult.

The Liberty Alliance offered a few examples of what it described as the "woke agenda" including critical race theory  which argues race is a social construct and that racism has been embedded in policies and legal systems in the U.S.  and "grooming toddlers with sexually explicit books."

The website states: "That is why we have officially launched the Woke Heat Map  an interactive tool designed to expose the insane actions of the radical left. This map will alert Missourians of craziness happening in their own communities."

In nearly all cases, the documentation used to designate a "woke" hotspot was based on a tweet, column or article from a conservative leader or platform.

'Does not accurately reflect the facts'

Springfield's inclusion is based on a January 2021 article about equity training provided at Cherokee Middle School.

It was part of a series of articles about critical race theory in schools in a publication of the far-right Manhattan Institute for Policy Research.

The article was "'Antiracism' Comes to the Heartland: A Missouri middle school forces teachers to locate themselves on an 'oppression matrix' and watch a video of George Floyd's last words."

Cherokee Middle School.

The article includes some details about the training provided by the district and mixed it with opinion and allegations.

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Stephen Hall, chief communications officer, said the allegations in the article have been

"refuted by the district on numerous occasions."

"SPS is perplexed by this website, the false narrative it perpetuates, and the mysterious group responsible for the content," Hall said.

"We stand by our assertions that it does not accurately reflect the facts of what occurred in 2020, who we are as a district, or the values we represent."

Hall said the district is focused on "helping each child achieve their full potential."

"It is our hope that the public will recognize this website for what it is and reject its falsehoods outright," he said. "Unfortunately, this divisive distraction inflicts considerable harm on public education."

Hall said employee training on diversity, equity and inclusion has been on hold.

More: SPSboard candidates weigh in on critical race theory, efforts to ban it

In August 2021, two Springfield district employees filed a federal lawsuit, alleging the mandatory staff training on diversity violated their rights.

In November, Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt filed a lawsuit alleging the district had violated the Sunshine Law in responding to his office's request for "records relating to critical race theory and anti-racist teaching."

Reasons for 'woke' designation

Not all "woke" hotspots designated by the National Alliance are public schools. The list also includes private schools and colleges.

The organization designated the following school hotspots for these reasons:

Pembroke Hill School, a private college-preparatory school in Kansas City, for its plan to address "racial inequity" and provide employee training;

University of Missouri-Kansas City for a student podcast called "Angry White Men and How they Ruined the World";

Grain Valley, near Kansas City, for "safe space" stickers allegedly distributed to show teachers who were LGBTQ allies;

Rock Bridge High School, in Columbia, for offering a gender-affirming closet that provides clothing and resources for LGBTQ students;

Lincoln County district for a worksheet on Maya Angelou that referenced her sexual abuse and sex work;

Francis Howell district for hiring a consultant to provide training and support for the development of African American history and literature courses;

St. Louis University after allegations that students vandalized a pro-life memorial;

Wentzville district for an allegedly partisan quiz in an advanced government class;

Fox district in Arnold for a parent-submitted "Genderbread Person" slide apparently used to explain gender expression, gender identity, and biological sex;

Rockwood district after allegations about curriculum transparency for parents.

On the website, the organization asks Missouri parents to report any "woke" behavior by schools and provide supporting documentation.

In addition to the "woke" hotspots, the National Alliance includes a "Blue Lives Spotlight" on law enforcement and a store selling "Let's Go Brandon" apparel, bumper stickers and membership cards.

There is also a list of "Conservative Champions" that includes Attorney General Eric Schmitt, Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft, Gov. Mike Parson, and various lawmakers.

Claudette Riley is the education reporter for the News-Leader. Email news tips to criley@news-leader.com.

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Springfield district named in group's list of Missouri 'Woke Hotspots'
The California Museum of Art Thousand Oaks is on the verge of closing without immediate, large donations, museum officials say.

The California Museum of Art Thousand Oaks is on the verge of closing without immediate large donations, museum officials say.

Nancy Chappell, chair of the museum's board, said Thursday that due to the pandemic, the nonprofit has endured extensive revenue losses primarily because it could no longer hold fundraising events.

Unless the museum receives at least $250,000 in donations at once, it will close June 19, Chappell said. A $250,000 infusion would cover the museum's operating budget for a year, she said.

"Without significant financial support from the community and major private benefactors ... impending closure is unfortunately the only course forward," she said.

That's a wrap: Santa Paula California Oil Museum closes with future unknown

The museum was established in 2009 and began exhibits in 2016 when it moved into a former Taco Bell building in downtown Thousand Oaks owned by the city.

It quickly outgrew the small space and in 2018 moved to its current, larger site in The Oaks mall, 350 W. Hillcrest Drive.

Museum officials had long hoped to establish a permanent home downtown, but plans never came to fruition.

Chappell said the museum's primary expenses are the costs of putting on exhibits and paying the salaries of one full-time employee, executive director Roya Alt, and four part-time employees. Board members are volunteers.

According to the museum's 2020 tax records, Alt worked an average of 30 hours a week and had reportable compensation of $33,300.

Chappell declined to say how much rent the nonprofit pays at the mall.

She said the museum received some emergency COVID funding from the city and the federal government, but not enough to keep its doors open in the long term.

"It allowed us to get through the pandemic," she said.

So long: Last chance to visit Oxnard's Carnegie Art Museum

Thousand Oaks Mayor Bob Engler said Thursday the museum's closure would be a loss to the community.

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"It's a sad situation," he said. "I'm hopeful they can raise the funds to stay in business because they're a valued part of Thousand Oaks."

Engler said the amount the city gave the museum was about $25,000. He said he didn't think the city could give it any more.

"I would encourage everyone in town if they have the interest and the wherewithal to contribute to that organization because they are doing good work," he said.

Chappell said the museum's board and staff are proud of what they've accomplished, including 16 exhibitions since 2016 drawing 40,000 visitors annually.

"We've brought to the community some beautiful, high quality, engaging visual arts experiences, so, of course, we'll be sad to not be able to do that anymore," she said.

The current exhibit at the California Museum of Art Thousand Oaks is titled "Landscape: Through the Eyes of Abstraction." The museum faces closure without immediate donations.

Cristina Farias, 23, of Camarillo, one of the museum's gallery attendants, said Thursday she was stunned upon learning of its impending closure.

"It's been a pleasure working here," she said. "We do a great service to the community and families, and it's devastating to hear that we probably have to close."

Tara O'Gorman, 26, of Newbury Park, another gallery attendant, said shuttering the museum would not only be a loss for Thousand Oaks, but for all of Ventura County.

"It's really unfortunate," she said. "There aren't many art opportunities here or in the county in general, so I've always appreciated this place."

O'Gorman said it's been exciting working at the museum "because we show a lot of really amazing artists not just locally but from around the world," she said. "So, it will be upsetting to not have it here anymore."

Other museums in Ventura County have also closed in recent years.

The California Oil Museum in Santa Paula, located in the original Union Oil Company headquarters, shuttered in September because of a lack of funding. But a message on its telephone says it hopes to re-open later this year.

Oxnard's downtown Carnegie Art Museum closed indefinitely in June 2019, a causality of the city's budget cuts.

Those interested in immediately donating to the California Museum of Art Thousand Oaks can call Chappell at 805-796-0566 or email her at nschappe5@icloud.com.

More information about the museum can be found on its website, cmato.org.

Mike Harris covers the East County cities of Moorpark, Simi Valley and Thousand Oaks, as well as transportation countywide. You can contact him at mike.harris@vcstar.com or 805-437-0323.

SUPPORT LOCAL JOURNALISM and get all the latest Moorpark, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks, and transportation news from Star reporter Mike Harris. Get a digital subscription

This article originally appeared on Ventura County Star: Without large donations, Thousand Oaks art museum says it will close
Tens of thousands of Britons are stranded across airports all over Europe after yet another series of flight cancellations as the half-term travel chaos shows no signs of abating.

Many families and couples were due to return to the UK on Saturday but 100 flights were cancelled due to the ongoing issues with staff shortages that have plagued airports for months.

Dozens of flights have already been cancellled on Sunday, with the biggest issue at Gatwick where Wizz Air, British Airways and easyJet have grounded flights.

The lengthy queues, mass cancellations and horrendous delays passengers faced are the fault of Brexit, London mayor Sadiq Khan has said.

He has called on the government to relax immigration rules and allow European workers who were employed in the aviation industry before Brexit and the Covid-19 pandemic to return in order to plug the labour shortage in the sector.

However, transport minister Grant Shapps outright dismissed calls to open the door to more cheap foreign workers in a bid to relieve the pressure on the aviation sector.

He accused travel bosses of cutting too far during the pandemic and said it was up to the sector to solve the issues.

Key Points

Tens of thousands stranded in half-term flight cancellation chaos

Brexit to blame for airports chaos, says Sadiq Khan

Paris to London Eurostar trains delayed

Blog closed

19:08 , Joe Middleton

The travel coverage blog is now closed.

More immigration not the answer to airport travel chaos, says Shapps

17:57 , Joe Middleton

The Transport Secretary has rejected calls to open the door to more cheap foreign workers in a bid to relieve the pressure on the aviation sector.

Air passengers have faced days of disruption at Britains airports, with a total of 20 flights listed as cancelled at Gatwick Airport on Saturday, while 17 were marked as delayed.

Grant Shapps said he will do absolutely everything possible to make sure holidaymakers are able to get away without issues during the summer but stopped short of allowing a temporary migration influx to bridge the labour shortage.

Story continues

More immigration not the answer to airport travel chaos, says Shapps

Eurostar recommends passengers postpone trips due to power failure

17:15 , Joe Middleton

In a tweet they said: Due to a power problem in the Paris region, all our trains to and from Paris are subject to severe delays and cancellations. We strongly recommend all our passengers to postpone their trip if possible.

En raison d'un probleme d'alimentation en region parisienne, tous nos trains au depart et a destination de Paris sont sujets a de forts retards et annulations. Nous recommandons vivement a tous nos passagers de reporter leur voyage si possible https://t.co/JWy9852B8k  Eurostar (@Eurostar) June 5, 2022

Unite boss blames governments failure to attach job guarantees to furlough money for travel chaos

16:34 , Joe Middleton

Unite boss Sharon Graham has blamed the governments failure to attach job guarantees to Covid furlough money for the travel chaos passengers have faced.

She said on Twitter: This shambles is on @GOVUKs failure to attach job guarantees to the 8billion in furlough wages it gave to airlines.

There is now a chronic shortage of staff, if travel bosses dont get their act together, this chaos could go on until next year.

This shambles is on @GOVUK's failure to attach job guarantees to the 8billion in furlough wages it gave to airlines.



There is now a chronic shortage of staff, if travel bosses dont get their act together, this chaos could go on until next year. https://t.co/jEQxMPp7tp  Sharon Graham (@UniteSharon) June 5, 2022

What are my consumer rights if my flight has been cancelled?

16:07 , Joe Middleton

Dozens of flights are being cancelled by airlines each day due to staff shortages and absences due to sickness.

British Airways, easyJet and Tui have all made the decision to cut back their summer schedules, with most routes being cancelled in advance and passengers notified.

Our travel correspondent Simon Calder runs through your consumer rights if your flight is cancelled.

What are my consumer rights if my flight is cancelled?

Airlines need to follow the rules when flights are disrupted say consumer group Which?

15:40 , Joe Middleton

Lisa Webb, a law expert at consumer rights group Which?, said airlines needed to follow the rules when flights are disrupted following a hellish week for travellers.

The shameful scenes at UK airports this half-term are the result of an industry in which some airlines feel they can get away with ignoring consumer rights and acting with near impunity, she said.

It is clear that passenger rights need to be strengthened, so the Government must drop plans to cut compensation for delayed and cancelled flights and the Civil Aviation Authority must be given the power to issue direct fines so it can hold airlines to account when they flout the law.

Pictured: queues at Eurostar in Paris

15:16 , Joe Middleton

The first image shows theGare du Nord terminal and the second is the Eurostar waiting room.

(Laura Hampson)

(Laura Hampson)

Is travel and passport chaos the new normal for Global Britain?

14:42 , Joe Middleton

This travel chaos and these passport delays dont feel very much like the Brexit we were promised, writes Sean OGrady.

Is travel and passport chaos the new normal for Global Britain? | Sean OGrady

Grant Shapps rejects calls for cheap foreign workers to solve airport chaos

14:15 , Joe Middleton

Grant Shapps has rejected calls to open the door to more cheap foreign workers in a bid to relieve the pressure on the aviation sector.

The transport secretary said he will do absolutely everything possible to make sure holidaymakers are able to get away without issues during the summer but stopped short of allowing a temporary migration influx to bridge the labour shortage.

Mr Shapps, asked whether he would temporarily allow more foreign workers into the industry to alleviate staffing pressures, told the BBCs Sunday Morning programme: The answer cant always be to reach for the lever marked More immigration.

There is not some pull that is going to relieve this.

Mr Shapps also denied that the UKs divorce from Brussels was the main factor behind the chaos and queues seen at Britains airports over the four-day Platinum Jubilee break, pointing to large-scale disruption elsewhere in Europe.

Mr Shapps added that the Brexit vote had been about moving away from hiring cheap labour from somewhere else.

I didnt vote for Brexit but the country did and weve made our choice - we want a high-wage, high-skilled economy, he said. That means the aviation sector, like all other sectors, and as the HGV, the lorry driving sector has now done, needs to change.

Eurostar update from Paris

14:00 , Joe Middleton

Passengers scheduled for the 9.12am CEST train from Paris Gare du Nord have been told that their train should be ready to depart at 3.15pm CEST, six hours after it was initially scheduled to leave.

As this news was announced by members of the Eurostar team, there were cheers and clapping throughout the Eurostar waiting terminal, where passengers from four delayed trains have been waiting for close to five hours.

An earlier electrical fault just outside of Paris has been the cause for the Eurostar delays today, which has seen several trains from Paris to London cancelled as British holidaymakers try to return home for the end of the school holidays.

Passengers in the three other trains leading up to 12pm have been told they should be able to get home today too.

Thousands of passengers diverted after power failure stops arrivals at Luton airport

13:42 , Joe Middleton

At least 18 flights, believed to be carrying around 3,000 passengers in total, have been diverted after a Sunday morning power failure at Luton airport.

One Wizz Air jet landed at Beauvais northern France, while others were re-routed to Doncaster, Liverpool and East Midlands airports.

Luton airport initially told passengers: An earlier power failure in the area has resulted in the temporary loss of some navigational aids, meaning some disruption to flights.

Aircraft could not land for around three hours between 7am and 10am. Most of the arrivals were on Wizz from eastern European airports, but an easyJet arrival from Belfast was re-routed to Gatwick.

Simon Calder has the latest.

Thousands diverted after power failure stops arrivals at Luton airport

Grant Shapps says Brexit is not to blame for airport chaos

13:28 , Joe Middleton

Paris to London Eurostar trains delayed

13:24 , Joe Middleton

Laura Hampson reports that trains running from Paris to London on the Eurostar have been delayed since 9am CEST this morning due to an electrical fault just outside of the French capital.

There are currently four trainloads of passengers, waiting to board a service back to London with queues stretching out past the Gare du Nord gates and later trains have been cancelled.

An update given by the Eurostar team at 12.30pm CEST told passengers that the electrical fault is more serious than first thought, and no trains would be leaving until mid afternoon, likely from 4pm CEST onwards.

However, this is just an estimate.Passengers have been told that they can cancel their tickets if they wish, but theres a large number of British passengers in the waiting room hoping to get home today.

Last nights thunderstorm has meant that temperatures are hot and humid today, but the Eurostar staff say that air conditioning wont be turned on in the Gate du Nord terminal until 21 June.

Delays and lengthy queues at Bristol Airport

13:10 , Joe Middleton

Holidaymakers have reported lengthy queues at Bristol Airport on Sunday morning. A number of passengers have taken to social media upset by the delays.

@TUIUK @BristolAirport We have been in the check in queue since 4:15 so a hour and a half so far and still not checked in. Why allow so many flights to leave so close together? This is ridiculous, I guess the only positive is our whole flight is still to check in! pic.twitter.com/xomD7ciCY6  Samantha  (@hobbs_samantha) June 5, 2022

Absolute carnage is the only way to describe @BristolAirport its not the travel firms cancelling flights its the airports that cant cope so causing crew to go over hours, severe delays etc  an hour just to get off the plane, then a 2 hr baggage reclaim time! It was crazy  Joanna Mills (@jomariemiles) June 5, 2022

Grant Shapps dismisses bringing in army to end travel chaos

12:50 , Joe Middleton

Transport minister Grant Shapps has said he does not anticipate calling in the army to help with issues at airports.

Ryanair boss Michael OLeary suggested on Thursday that the armed forces could be drafted into transport hubs for the next three to four months to prevent travel problems. The Liberal Democrats also suggested this could help ease problems faced by passengers.

Asked on BBCs Sunday Morning programme if the army will be brought in if things do not improve over the next few weeks, Mr Shapps said: The Army is not a snap solution to every problem. Secondly they are being deployed in increasing numbers to eastern Europe, to the Baltics, in what is a war situation and thats what the Army are principally there for.

The airports and airlines will need to sort out this problem. The Government will give them every support, but I dont anticipate that will include calling in the Army.

Brexit to blame for airports chaos, says Sadiq Khan

12:41 , Joe Middleton

Brexit is to blame for the chaos in Britains airports which has seen hundreds of flights cancelled and thousands of peoples half-term travel plans disrupted, London mayor Sadiq Khan has said.

Mr Khan called on the government to relax immigration rules to allow airport and airline workers who returned to their EU countries of origin following Brexit to come back to the UK to resolve staffing shortages.

But transport secretary Grant Shapps denied that the problems were caused by the UKs withdrawal from the EU and rejected calls for aviation workers to be added to the list of shortage occupations with lighter controls on migrants.

Andrew Woodcock reports.

Brexit to blame for airports chaos, says Sadiq Khan

Tens of thousands stranded in half-term flight cancellation chaos

12:39 , Joe Middleton

Tens of thousands of British travellers are stranded at airports across Europe by an estimated 200 flight cancellations over the weekend.

More than 100 flights to and from the UK were cancelled on Saturday by a combination of staff shortage and air-traffic control restrictions.

So far today dozens more have been grounded, mainly by easyJet. Many of those stranded are families hoping to return home after half-term holidays.

Our travel correspondent Simon Calder has the latest.

Tens of thousands stranded in half-term flight cancellation chaos

Welcome

12:36 , Joe Middleton

Good afternoon and welcome to The Independents travel blog bringing you the latest news of the ongoing chaos at airports around Europe as tens of thousands of Britons struggle to get home.
Steve Brawner

Do women in leadership positions still have to guard against showing emotion in public? Sarah Huckabee Sanders doesnt.

Regardless of what one thinks about her otherwise, no one can question her toughness after watching her go toe-to-toe with the national media as President Trumps press secretary. She may have made other people cry, but she didnt.

On Tuesday night, her voice cracked a couple of times in her acceptance speech after she easily secured the Republican nomination for governor with 83% of the vote.

I didnt think Id get so emotional this fast, she said as she began her speech.

Hopefully things have changed for all women, and not just Sanders. Male politicians used to not be allowed to cry, either.

From a policy perspective, Sanders said she was running to make sure students are educated, not indoctrinated. Referencing the terrible mass shooting in Texas earlier in the day, she said she wanted to ensure students are safe at school. Discussing abortion, she said, We will make sure that when a kid is in the womb, theyre as safe as they are in a classroom, a workplace, a nursing home, because every stage of life has value, no one greater than the other.

Two things were missing in her speech: her opponent, and the November elections. Sanders spoke as if her ultimate election is a foregone conclusion, which it probably is. She closed by saying, The real work starts in January of next year when we take office, and we take Arkansas to the very top. Candidates often say that kind of thing, but this had an air of certainty about it.

Sanders is Arkansas second female major party nominee for governor. The first was Jimmie Lou Fisher, who lost running as a Democrat against Sanders dad, Gov. Mike Huckabee, in 2002. If Sanders wins, shell be the first governor to return to the Governors Mansion after growing up in it as a kid. Shell be returning to the house her mom renovated. The race will gain national attention because of her fame and connection to Trump.

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It was also a big night for Chris Jones, who won 70% of the vote in a five-candidate race on the Democratic side. He also made history as the states first African American major party nominee for governor. Arkansas has never produced an African American statewide officeholder or member of Congress.

In his speech, Jones drew on his background as a physicist and a minister. He called for a nuclear fusion politics, noting that more effort is required but greater energy is produced when atoms come together, as with the sun, than when atoms are split.

The minister side came out when he discussed the uphill climb he faces against Sanders. Referencing the biblical story of David and Goliath, he said, They say were the underdog in this race. They say were facing a giant. But we have five stones.

Based on Arkansas recent history, its understandable why Jones would say that. In this years primary elections, more than 347,000 voters voted in the Republican gubernatorial primary, while 94,000 voted in the Democratic one. More than 3.5 times more people voted in the Republican primary. Nearly as many people (58,568) voted for Sanders Republican opponent, Doc Washburn, as voted for Jones (66,443). The last Democratic nominee for governor won less than 32% of the vote in 2018.

One major difference between this contest and the real David vs. Goliath story is that in the Bible, Goliath underestimated and mocked David. In contrast, Sanders will blanket the airwaves with ads and pretty much ignore Jones. Hell be running a campaign against her, and shell be running a campaign against President Biden and CNN.

Regardless, history is being made this cycle. Every Arkansas governor has been a white male. When voters go to the polls in November, theyll be choosing between a female and two African American males, the other being Libertarian Ricky Harrington.

Theyll make history Nov. 8 just by being on the ballot. If any of them get a little emotional about it, thats OK.

Steve Brawner is a freelance journalist and syndicated columnist. Email him at brawnersteve@mac.com or follow him on Twitter at @stevebrawner.

This article originally appeared on Fort Smith Times Record: Tuesday the first of two history-making nights | Steve Brawner
Iranian flag (R) next to the Israeli flag (L) Getty Images

A military officer and a weapons scientist have died under mysterious circumstances in Tehran.

Israel has taken responsibility for assassinating another senior officer, saying it was a "warning" to Iran's secret Unit 840.

The deaths are ratcheting-up tensions between Iran and Israel.

A military officer and a weapons scientist have died under mysterious circumstances in Tehran, fuelling tension between Iran and Israel.

Military officer Colonel Ali Esmaelzadeh died under unverified circumstances on Friday. The New York Times reported that various sources said his death was either an assassination, a suicide, or an accident.

Esmaelzadeh died just one week after the drive-by-shooting and the subsequent death of Colonel Sayad Khodaei outside his home in Tehran, another high-ranking officer in the same unit as Esmaelzadeh.

The New York Times reported that an official briefed on official intelligence has confirmed Israel informed US officials that they were responsible for the killing of Khodaei.

However, the paper also reported that two Israeli officials denied that the state was involved in the death of Esmaelzadeh.

Both Esmaelzadeh and Khodaei were officers in the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Force, Unit 840, a group that President Donald Trump labeled as a terrorist organization. Israel alleges it runs missions to kill foreigners abroad, according to The New York Times.

The paper also reports that the Israelis advised the US officials that the assassination of Khodaei was a warning sign to halt the operation of Unit 840, of which he was allegedly the deputy commander.

A cutout of an Israeli soldier is seen behind signs pointing out distances to different cities at an army post in Mount Bental in the Israeli-annexed Golan Heights, on November 28, 2020. JALAA MAREY/AFP via Getty Images

In reaction to Khodaei's death, General Hossein Salami, the commander in chief of the Revolutionary Guards, said in a speech on Monday that "none of the enemy's evil actions will go unanswered."

Iran's state Tasnim news agency released a statement from the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps regarding the death of Khodaei, in which IRGC spokesperson General Ramezan Sharif said that "the thugs and the remnants of terrorist groups affiliated with the global arrogance and Zionism will be given punishment for their criminal act."

Story continues

Amid the tensions, Israel warned citizens on Monday against traveling to Turkey, as they believe Tehran could be seeking revenge for the assassination, Reuters reported.

Along with the deaths of these men, Ayoob Entezari, an Iranian aerospace engineer who worked on developing missiles and drones, according to the Times of Israel, died under mysterious circumstances in Tehran.

Israeli newspaper Haaretz writes that Entezari is thought to have died from food poisoning, per an Iranian website report on Saturday.

It followed a report in The New York Times of a drone attack on a military base near Tehran that left an Iranian engineer dead and another person injured.

Israel-Iran tensions

The enmity between the Jewish state and the Islamic republic is fuelled by multiple geopolitical factors, including the Israel-Palestine conflict  in which Iran has previously advocated for a Palestinian intifada to remove the "cancerous tumor" of Israel  and Israel's belief that Iran is building nuclear weapons, although Iran disputes this.

In November 2021, Israeli officials said they were preparing for a potential conflict with Iran to prevent It from developing nuclear weapons. Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid said that "if a terror regime is going to acquire a nuclear weapon, we must act."

Oil is another point of contention between the two countries. Israel reportedly attacked at least a dozen Iranian oil tankers bound for Syria in 2021, a violation of US and international sanctions on the country.

In 2021, Israel accused Iran of intentionally orchestrating an oil spill in an act of "environmental terrorism." The spill covered 90% of Israel's 120-mile Mediterranean coast with roughly 1000 tons of black tar.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Celebrities are issuing calls to action after a gunman killed 19 children and two teachers at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, on May 24.

The shooting was the deadliest shooting at a U.S. grade school since the 2012 attack at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut.

Texas Department of Public Safety Sgt. Erick Estrada said the 18-year-old gunman also shot his grandmother before driving to the elementary school, where he was armed with a rifle and overpowered a school officer. Estrada said the grandmother was airlifted to a hospital in critical condition, and Abbott later confirmed the woman had died.

Authorities are still investigating the shooter's motives in the city once best known as the birthplace of Matthew McConaughey. Now the actor, alongside famous faces including Duchess Meghan, Kim Kardashian and Selena Gomez, are speaking up and working to help the victims of the tragic day.

Uvalde school shooting: Texas officials investigate whether police acted fast enough to stop shooter at Uvalde school

Kim Kardashian asks for temporary release of imprisoned father whose daughter was killed

Kardashian used her social media platform to request that a father of one of the victims be temporarily released from prison in Kentucky to attend his daughter's funeral.

"This is Eliahana Ellie Cruz Torres, 10 years old, and one of the 19 victims of the shooting in Uvalde, TX. Her family are desperately hoping that her father, who is incarcerated for a nonviolent drug offense, be granted temporary release so that he can attend her funeral," she wrote on Twitter, tagging the Federal Bureau of Prisons.

"I ask the @officialFBOP to grant Eli Torres temporary release so that he can say his last goodbye to his baby girl. Every parent deserves that right."

So far their requests have been denied. I ask the @officialFBOP to grant Eli Torres temporary release so that he can say his last goodbye to his baby girl. Every parent deserves that right.  Kim Kardashian (@KimKardashian) June 2, 2022

The girl's father, Eli Torres, was convicted in 2013 in a cocaine-related case and has been held at U.S. Penitentiary McCreary in Pine Knot, Kentucky, with his release date scheduled for February 2033.

Story continues

State Rep. Attica Scott, D-Louisville, also wrote a letter to President Biden and Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, asking them to help allow Torres to attend his daughter's memorial services.

While the Bureau of Prisons has denied the request to allow Eliahnas father to attend her funeral, our advocacy on behalf of her family must persist.



I sent this letter to @POTUS and @GovAndyBeshear demanding they do something! #UvaldeStrong #Uvalde #Kentucky https://t.co/j6wwbySTtJ pic.twitter.com/TyM2XDMVGw  Rep. Attica Scott (@atticaforky) May 31, 2022

Kardashian also spoke out following the tragedy in a Twitter thread on gun control and said, "semi-automatic weapons, assault weapons, weapons of war, should not be legally sold or owned by American civilians. They should be banned. Period."

Kardashian continued: "There is no question that mental health, racism, deep-seated hatred all play a role in the motivation for mass shootings in recent years. And at a community level, as parents, teachers, there is a lot that can be done to help teens and young adults that isnt being done."

"We cant accept this as normal anymore. Its not normal for a teenager to kill children. Its not normal for our kids to be practicing active shooter drills in schools," she wrote. "Its not normal to be shot while shopping for groceries. Im not numbed by it. I will never be numbed by it."

There is no excuse and no justification for what happened yesterday. The current laws in our country around gun control are not protecting our children. We have to push law makers to enact laws that are fitting in todays world.  Kim Kardashian (@KimKardashian) May 25, 2022

Kim Kardashian appears at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party in Beverly Hills, California, on March 27.

Matthew McConaughey, Camila Alves start fund for Uvalde community

Texas native McConaughey and his wife, Camila Alves McConaughey, spent time in the actor's hometown in early June to visit with the Robb Elementary School victims' families in the aftermath of the mass shooting.

Following their visit, the couple announced the launch of their Just Keep Livin Foundation's Uvalde Relief Fund to help support the reeling community.

"While the spirit of the community is in pain, the unanimous support of families to families and strangers to locals is beautiful, the organization shared in a statement to Instagram.

"After the initial shock, the town has now begun the funerals and the grieving process, which will continue for the surviving children, families and the entire community. The community will need ongoing grief counseling and support on the long road ahead of them. Please join us to help the people of Uvalde, TX," the organization added.

McConaughey also shared a statement hours after the shooting, writing, "Once again, we have tragically proven that we are failing to be responsible for the rights our freedoms grant us."

The actor continued: "The true call to action is now for every American to take a longer and deeper look in the mirror, and ask ourselves, 'What is it that we truly value? How do we repeat the problem? What small sacrifices can we individually take today, to pressure a healthier and safer nation, state, and neighborhood tomorrow?' We cannot exhale once again, make excuses, and accept these tragic realities as the status quo."

Food or gas? As Louisville pump prices rise to almost $5, experts have dire warning

"Action must be taken so that no parent has to experience what the parents in Uvalde and the others before them have endured. And to those who dropped their loved ones today not knowing it was goodbye, no words can comprehend or heal your loss, but if prayers can provide comfort, we will keep them coming."

In this file photo taken on March 4, 2018 Actor Matthew McConaughey arrives for the 90th Annual Academy Awards in Hollywood, California.

Duchess Meghan of Sussex visits memorial site in Uvalde, Texas

Meghan visited Uvalde on May 26 to pay tribute to the 21 lives lost during the tragic shooting. An Archewell spokesperson confirmed Meghan's visit to the memorial to USA TODAY.

The spokesperson said it was important for Meghan, as a mother herself, to make the trip and extend her condolences and support to the Texas community during this difficult time.

Meghan was pictured at the memorial site, outside of Uvalde County Court, looking pensively at a somber line of headstones. In another photo, the 40-year-old was pictured leaving a bouquet of white roses at the base of one of the memorial headstones.

Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, leaves flowers at a memorial site on May 26, 2022, for the victims killed in an elementary school shooting in Uvalde, Texas, on May 24.

Selena Gomez, Taylor Swift, more celebrities react: 'We need change'

Gomez, Taylor Swift, Becky G, Kris Jenner and more celebrities shared their thoughts following the shooting on social media.

"If children aren't safe at school where are they safe?" Gomez, another Texas native, wrote on social media. "Today in my home state of Texas 18 innocent students were killed while simply trying to get an education. A teacher killed doing her job; an invaluable yet sadly underappreciated job."

Swift also took to social media to express she was "filled with rage and grief, and so broken by the murders in Uvalde. By Buffalo, Laguna Woods and so many others."

She added that "as a nation, (we) have become conditioned to unfathomable and unbearable heartbreak."

Filled with rage and grief, and so broken by the murders in Uvalde. By Buffalo, Laguna Woods and so many others. By the ways in which we, as a nation, have become conditioned to unfathomable and unbearable heartbreak. Steves words ring so true and cut so deep. https://t.co/Rb5uwSTxty  Taylor Swift (@taylorswift13) May 25, 2022

Mindy Kaling wrote on Twitter: "It happens, and then life goes on. Then it happens again. And the only thing that changes  the literal only thing  is that it happens sooner and sooner."

Kerry Washington expressed that "as a mother, this is tragically unimaginable."

"School should be a SAFE place," she continued. "My heart breaks for the pain and suffering of every family member and loved one connected to today's events in Texas. My prayers are with you."

America Ferrera shared a collage of all the young victims and called it "unbearable."

Louisville education: JCPS teachers to get raises; those in high-needs schools to get more. Here are the details

"Yet so many moms, dads, brothers, sisters, and friends are having to bear it in this moment," she wrote. "My broken heart is with them. Why are we living in this terror? It doesnt have to be this way. Please consider a donation to @everytown for gun safety, or any other org working to end the senseless hell were living in. Sending love to all your aching hearts today from my own."

Missy Elliot wrote we're "living in some TRYING TIMES  Its Heavy."

The rapper added: "I am praying for everyone that is struggling MENTALLY/FINANCIALLY/PHYSICALLY that some PEACE be RESTORED! So many in the world is dealing with pain & I dont have the answers but I send you LOVE virtually."

We living in some TRYING TIMES Its HeavyI am praying for everyone that is struggling MENTALLY/FINANCIALLY/PHYSICALLY that some PEACE be RESTORED! So many in the world is dealing with pain & I dont have the answers but I send you LOVE virtually  Missy Elliott (@MissyElliott) May 25, 2022

"Just last week a targeted mass shooting at a market in Buffalo and now a school shooting in Uvalde," the singer continued. "Communities should be safe in their grocery stores, our CHILDREN should be safe in class! This has to end. Thoughts and prayers arent enough. We need change."

ENOUGH IS ENOUGH. Just last week a targeted mass shooting at a market in Buffalo and now a school shooting in Uvalde. Communities should be safe in their grocery stores, our CHILDREN should be safe in class! This has to end.



Thoughts and prayers arent enough. We need change.   Becky G. (@iambeckyg) May 24, 2022

Migos rapper Offset sent "prayers for the people in Texas."

Grammy-winner Jon Batiste wrote: "We need to make some changes now."

Gabrielle Union tweeted: "It's BEEN enough. We've been at 'enough' for centuries."

It's BEEN enough. We've been at "enough" for centuries.  Gabrielle Union (@itsgabrielleu) May 24, 2022

"This Is Us" actor Susan Kelechi Watson said her "heart is heavy with news tonight."

"Sending you all love and light this evening," she continued. "Holding space in my heart for all those suffering the unimaginable."

Fellow costar Mandy Moore wrote on Instagram Stories: "There are no words. We must take action. Uvalde, your entire community is in our hearts."

My heart is heavy with news tonight. Sending you all love and light this evening.



Holding space in my heart for all those suffering the unimaginable.  Susan Kelechi Watson (@skelechiwatson) May 25, 2022

Chrissy Metz also wrote on Instagram Stories that her "entire heart" was with the Uvalde, Texas, community. "When is enough enough? We must take action."

More members of the Kardashian-Jenner family also took to Instagram Stories to share their condolences.

Kylie Jenner wrote the news was "devastating." "Another school shooting," she added. "Breaks my heart for these families."

Khloe Kardashian said she couldn't "comprehend today's tragedy."

Television personalities Kris Jenner, from left, Kylie Jenner and Khloe Kardashian attend the NBCUniversal Cable Entertainment 2015 Upfront at The Javits Center on Thursday, May 14, 2015, in New York.

"How is this happening? My heart is breaking," she continued. "I pray, I hope, I beg, I plead  please, lawmakers, government officials, leaders of our country, do something to protect our children."

Kris Jenner wrote she was heartbroken over the "innocent children killed today."

"It is unimaginable, horrific, inexcusable, devastating. Is this the country we want to leave to our children, our grandchildren? A country where kids can't even feel safe at school?" Jenner wrote. "No words can make this better."

"18 elementary children  a small classroom size. Imagine you walk down a hall & an entire class GONE," country singer Maren Morris wrote. "Ive already lost track of which shooting happened even a year ago. The victims families havent and never will.

18 elementary children a small classroom size.



Imagine you walk down a hall & an entire class GONE.



Ive already lost track of which shooting happened even a year ago. The victims families havent and never will.



At this rate, this kind of violence only happens HERE.  MAREN MORRIS (@MarenMorris) May 25, 2022

"At this rate, this kind of violence only happens HERE," she concluded.

Finneas wrote: "Anyone saying 'now isnt the time to talk about gun control' doesnt care that kids got (expletive) murdered today."

Quinta Bronson said it's "insane that we just keep living like this. really don't want to" and that she's "tired of gun violence."

insane that we just keep living like this. really don't want to. tired of gun violence. https://t.co/8gRydJuNqu  quinta brunson (@quintabrunson) May 24, 2022

Chloe Bailey asked: "when will this end??????? when will it stop??? how do we just keep letting this happen?? 18 babies gone!"

when will this end??????? when will it stop???

how do we just keep letting this happen??

18 babies gone!

  Chloe (@ChloeBailey) May 25, 2022

Dan Levy wrote: "18. Children. What will it take to prioritize humanity over politics?"

Contributing: Billy Kobin, Amy Haneline, N'dea Yancey-Bragg, Trevor Hughes, Chris Kenning, USA TODAY; The Associated Press

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Uvalde shooting: Kim Kardashian, Kentucky rep seek dad prison release
The United Nations is trying to broker a deal with Russia to allow Ukraine to restart grain exports via the Black Sea. Biden administration officials and lawmakers, however, are highly skeptical Russia is operating in good faith.

Their primary reason for pessimism: recent comments from Russian President Vladimir Putin and Russian officials suggesting they would ease the blockade on Ukraines ports if, in exchange, the West lifts its economic sanctions on Moscow. That proposal is complicating the fragile negotiations, a U.N. official told POLITICO, shortly before the U.N.s top humanitarian official wrapped two days of talks on the blockade in Moscow on Friday. One U.S. official described Moscows pitch as extortion diplomacy and said the U.S. wouldnt agree to a deal that lifted any economic pressure on the Kremlin.

Any deal to allow Ukraine to export grain ahead of the summer wheat harvest would be a major breakthrough, and U.S. officials and global businesses are closely watching Russias talks with the U.N., as well as separate negotiations with Turkey, about allowing safe passage for Ukrainian grain to world markets. The blockade has upended global trade routes while threatening to financially strangle Ukraine and deepen hunger crises around the world. U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres is trying to strike a deal that would ensure both Ukrainian and Russian food and fertilizer exports can safely reach foreign markets.

Martin Griffiths, one of the U.N. officials leading the talks, met with Russian officials from the ministries of defense and foreign affairs about Russias blockade of Ukraines Black Sea ports during his visit to Moscow, according to a second U.N. official. The U.N. has declined to say whether Griffiths or Rebeca Grynspan, the other U.N. official leading the talks, have broached Russias calls for sanctions relief during their discussions. U.S. officials are not in the room during the talks, but a State Department and a U.N. official separately confirmed a U.N. delegation recently briefed U.S. officials on the discussions.

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The bottom line is that, apart from leveraging overland routes, we need to get the ports back up and running so we can boost food supplies for those most in need, said a State Department spokesperson.

U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Linda Thomas-Greenfield has expressed general U.S. support for the early discussions, but has also noted that there are no sanctions keeping Russia from exporting its own food and agricultural products like fertilizer, as Putin has suggested. State Department aides appear more hopeful about the negotiations than others in the Biden administration, but most officials said theyre waiting for the talks to progress further to see whether Russia drops its calls for sanction relief.

Its hard to view the Russian offers in good faith considering how they are actively and intentionally destroying food products in Ukraine and exacerbating global food insecurity, a U.S. official said, referencing Russian forces continued targeting of Ukrainian agriculture facilities and fields.

Republicans on Capitol Hill have bristled at the Russian calls for sanctions relief as well. Sen. Jim Risch of Idaho, the top Republican on the Foreign Relations Committee, said in an interview that Moscows demand for sanctions relief in exchange for lifting their Black Sea blockade amounts to blackmail.

Putin is waging war on other innocent people across the world by holding Ukrainian food and related exports hostage, Risch said.

U.S. lawmakers have, however, have been pushing for the Biden administration to help Ukraine reopen its Black Sea port of Odesa, the countrys only port still under their control. But the Biden administration for now has ruled out sending military ships into the region, which would risk Russian retaliation. Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley told reporters Tuesday that de-mining Ukraines ports and navigating Russias naval blockade would be a high-risk military operation that would require significant levels of effort.

Instead, the administration is planning to keep sending weapons to help Ukraine fight off Russian forces attacking Odesa and eastern regions of the country, while pushing to open up more land routes to move grain.

Biden officials were originally hesitant to publicly connect Russias invasion of Ukraine to likely devastating food shortages and price hikes around the world, concerned it would panic Americans unnecessarily (since the U.S. is a major grain exporter, the domestic market is insulated from the worst of the Ukraine-related shocks). But in the past few weeks, the president has increasingly warned of the Russian blockade triggering long-term damage to global economies and strained food systems while pushing up already high food prices. Discussing the more than 20 million tons of grain trapped at Ukraines ports, Biden noted that normally, that would have already been exported into the world market, Biden said during remarks on the economy Friday. But because of Putins invasion and a blockade of the port at which they could take that grain out for the rest of the world, its not.

And Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned this week that Russias crippling military blockade in the Black Sea is threatening to unleash mass starvation, protests and migration around the world amid rising global hunger. U.S. officials expect the global fallout to worsen over the summer, risking widespread unrest this fall.

There are some small signs of progress on other efforts to get some grain out of Ukraine. Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko, a Putin ally, told the U.N.s Guterres on Friday that Belarus would be willing to discuss allowing Ukraine to ship grain through its territory to Baltic Sea ports, if Belarus could also use those ports to ship goods.

The chair of the African Union, Senegal's President Macky Sall, also met with Putin on Friday and planned to press him on the blockade, which has been keeping critical food supplies from many African countries already reeling from severe drought.
ADRIAN  Adrian city commissioners have decided not to attend a joint session about Project Phoenix with Lenawee County and Tecumseh officials.

County officials scheduled the joint session to provide information to the Adrian City Commission and Tecumseh City Council about the recreation and event center the county is considering building in Tecumseh. County commissioners also are invited. When it was announced, it was scheduled for 5 to 6 p.m. Monday, June 6, at the old courthouse in Adrian, but Adrian officials decided last week not to attend.

Adrian City Manager Greg Elliott said he sent the following message to Lenawee County Administrator Kim Murphy and Tecumseh City Manager Dan Swallow on Wednesday: I regret to inform you that our City Commissioners and Mayor are not willing to participate in the proposed joint meeting for next Monday night, in light of the fact it appears that it cannot be conducted in a manner that would be consistent with the (Open Meetings Act). In retrospect, it would have probably been better for us to propose a date and time where we would not have other time constraints. I have not attended any of your earlier sessions on this topic, but it appears that the consensus is that, even if we extended the meeting by a half an hour, that would be inadequate for the amount of public comment that is likely to ensue.

I remain open to discussing options for creating further dialogue about this matter.

More: Lenawee County schedules Project Phoenix study session with Adrian, Tecumseh for June 6

When it announced the session, the county said there would be no opportunity for public comment because it would not be an official meeting of any of the three governmental bodies that were invited. Michigans Open Meetings Act requires public bodies to allow time for public comment at meetings.

County officials said Friday that the session on Monday would not be a meeting of the elected officials.

This is not a meeting, Murphy said in an email. It is a presentation of information. There will be 3 presenters. Those attending will be in the audience. We will be providing information such as (a) a timeline showing how this project originated and where we are now; (b) the process is moving forward; and (c) answering questions. We will answer as many questions as possible during the timeframe allotted for this presentation. The presentation along with Q&A will run from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

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County commission chairman David Stimpson, R-Tecumseh, said as long as there are no deliberations, the gathering does not violate the Open Meetings Act.

Murphy said the Adrian city commissioners are still invited to attend. However, Adrian has scheduled its regular premeeting for 5:30 p.m. Monday, followed by the city commissions regular meeting at 7 p.m., according to the agendas for both the premeeting and regular meeting. The city commissions regular meetings are on the first and third Mondays of each month at the City Chambers building.

Stimpson said Adrian asked for the meeting to be on Monday at the courthouse.

We are having this presentation as a direct result of the City of Adrian indicating they wanted more information on this project, Murphy said. It is unfortunate that they are opting not to attend. However, we do see the benefit in providing the information and are therefore continuing with the presentation.

Murphy said county officials anticipate having similar informational presentations in other parts of the county.

The Tecumseh City Council still plans to attend the session Monday, Swallow said in an email. He said Murphy worked with Lenawee County Prosecutor Burke Castleberry to ensure there would not be any Open Meetings Act concerns.

The Adrian City Commission had a special meeting May 9 where it passed a resolution saying the commission did not have enough information to take a position on Project Phoenix. The resolution also called for the county to engage in a transparent decision-making process.

More: Adrian City Commission resolution says it's too soon to take position on Project Phoenix

More: Lenawee Now says Project Phoenix needs independent audit

Before voting on the resolution, some city commissioners criticized the county for not sharing information with them about the project and expressed their doubts about how the county will pay to build and operate the complex. The countys consultants have estimated costs of completing the project at $64.3 million for a smaller complex and $88.8 million for a larger complex.

The project would build a complex featuring outdoor baseball, softball and soccer fields and a building with courts for basketball and volleyball, a running track, an indoor soccer field, a new senior center for Tecumseh, and space to be rented out to businesses. The soccer fields could also be used for lacrosse or football. Last fall, the county paid $2.3 million the former Tecumseh Products Co. factory site on the south side of Tecumseh for the complex.

This article originally appeared on The Daily Telegram: Adrian city commissioners withdraw from Project Phoenix joint session
Florida footballs recruiting team will play host to a number of high school prospects this month including several blue-chip prospects in the 2023 class. Among those who have inked Gainesville into their June itineraries is five-star offensive lineman Francis Mauigoa out of IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, who recently cut his list of suitor schools to six, including the Orange and Blue.

The native of Iliili, American Samoa, will visit the Swamp from June 14 to 16, which his is fitting into his hectic schedule that has him traveling to see the Alabama Crimson Tide (June 10-12), USC Trojans (June 17-19), Miami Hurricanes (June 20-22) and Tennessee Volunteers (June 23-25). Mauigoa already made an unofficial visit to his sixth school, the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors, earlier this week.

My parents are flying in from American Samoa so we had to squeeze them all in like that, Mauigoa told Swamp247. Im excited though, it should be a lot of fun and Im really looking forward to it and excited for my parents to visit with me too since theyre going to have a big role in my decision.

The 6-foot-5-inch, 330-pounder is the No. 7 prospect overall and the No. 1 offensive tackle nationally in the 2023 class per the 247Sports Composite, while the On3 Consensus has him at No. 10 and No. 2, respectively. On3s Recruiting Prediction Machine has the Vols out in front in his recruitment with a 59.7% chance of landing him while the Gators are fourth with a 1.2% chance.

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List

A look at recruits Florida football is hosting first weekend of June

List

Here's 247Sports Composite's complete updated list of 5-star recruits

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Follow us @GatorsWire on Twitter and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Florida Gators news, notes and opinions.

Let us know your thoughts and comment on this story below. Join the conversation today!
GM's Cruise has received the first ever driverless deployment permit issued by the California Public Utilities Commission. That means the company can now charge for the robotaxi rides, ones with no safety driver behind the wheel, it gives to members of the public. Cruise has secured permission (PDF) to operate its paid passenger service at a max speed of 30 mph on select streets of San Francisco from 10PM to 6AM.

The company is expected to have 30 electric vehicles in its fleet, offering its ride-hailing passengers paid rides. Those cars aren't allowed to operate on highways, however, or during times of heavy fog and rain. In its announcement, the company said it will begin rolling out fared rides gradually, including to areas not currently covered by its permit.

A Cruise spokesperson told TechCrunch:

"In the coming months, we'll expand our operating domain, our hours of operation and our ability to charge members of the public for driverless rides until we have fared rides 24/7 across the entire city."

The company first received permission to offer passengers free robotaxi rides almost exactly a year ago and opened fully driverless ride-hailing to the public this February. In March, the CPUC gave Cruise (and Waymo) permission to start charging their passengers, but only for rides with a safety driver behind the wheel. Now, Cruise can charge customers even if there's nobody else onboard. The company called this development a "major milestone for the shared mission of the AV industry to improve life in [the] cities." It will also use this opportunity to gather data for the development of the project's future phases.
Hundreds of birds call Florida home for all or part of the year. It has often been said that there is no other state better for bird lovers than Florida. While there are many bird species to be found in Florida, there is only one species that is endemic to the state: the Florida scrub-jay.

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Endemic means a species is both native to and found only in a geographic area. Florida scrub-jays are the only species of bird that are both native to the state and not found anywhere outside of Florida, making them unique among the state's many birds.

Florida scrub-jays have bright blue feathers on their wings, head, and tail with a more muted blueish-gray coloring on their back and underside. They are approximately the size of blue jays, but easy to distinguish from their distant cousins by their lack of black markings.

As their name implies, Florida scrub-jays are found in habitats with scrub oaks, sandy soils, and sand pines. They prefer to nest in short, shrubby oaks between 1-2 meters in height. The diet of the Florida scrub-jay consists primarily of acorns with a small number of spiders, insects, small amphibians and reptiles, and mice included as available.

Florida scrub-jays are the only bird species endemic to the state of Florida.

They are known to harvest acorns when they are abundant, burying them for later retrieval. It is important that humans not feed Florida scrub-jays as doing so disrupts their natural behaviors (also, feeding scrub-jays is illegal).

Florida scrub-jays live in cooperative family groups consisting of a breeding pair and young helpers, typically the older offspring of the breeding pair who stick around to assist with raising their siblings and defending the family territory until they are old enough to pair off themselves.

The breeding season spans from March through June and the pair will generally nest in the same territory year after year. Each breeding pair will raise one brood of 2-5 young per year.

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Florida scrub-jays thrive in the Florida scrub.

Florida scrub-jays are considered a federally threatened species. Habitat destruction, fragmentation, and degradation can all negatively affect Florida scrub-jay populations. As non-migratory, territorial birds, Florida scrub-jays typically do not travel far from their home territory to find food or mates.

As their habitats become smaller and more isolated, both of these essential-for-survival tasks become more difficult. Fire suppression has also resulted in fewer scrub oak habitats. Fortunately, efforts are underway statewide to restore and manage habitats through practices like controlled burns.

If you are interested in seeing a Florida scrub-jay in person you are in the right county! Several of our parks and natural areas feature ideal scrub-jay habitats. The Florida Scrub-Jay Trail in Clermont is a great place to learn more about our endemic bird while spending time in nature.

More information on the trail, including hours, events, and activities can be found at https://www.scrubjaytrail.org/. Tips for birdwatchers in Lake County can be found at https://www.visitlakefl.com/birding.

Florida scrub-jays prefer the shrubby oaks of scrub forests.

UF/IFAS Lake County Extension is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday and is providing services both in person and virtually. Please visit us online at sfyl.ifas.uf.edu/lake and follow UF/IFAS Lake County Extension on Facebook.

An Equal Opportunity Institution. UF/IFAS Extension, University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Andra Johnson, Dean for UF/IFAS Extension. Single copies of UF/IFAS Extension publications (excluding 4-H and youth publications) are available free to Florida residents from county UF/IFAS Extension offices.

This article originally appeared on Daily Commercial: The scrub-jay is Florida's most unique bird
Gareth Southgate on the bench (Trenka Attila/PA) (PA Wire)

England manager Gareth Southgate blamed inherited thinking as a crowd of over 30,000 supporters  mainly children  jeered his players taking the knee ahead of their Nations League defeat in Hungary.

The Three Lions were once again booed as they performed their pre-match anti-racism and discrimination gesture, despite the hosts being forced to play behind closed doors.

The majority of the bottom two tiers of the Puskas Arena were full for the Group A3 opener in Budapest as Dominik Szoboszlais second-half penalty secured a 1-0 win for the hosts.

Uefa had ordered Hungary to play three games in empty stadiums, the third of which has been suspended, following the behaviour of fans during Euro 2020.

Hungary also have concurrent Fifa sanctions in place  a two-match stadium ban with a game suspended, following racist abuse aimed at England players during the 4-0 World Cup qualifying win last September.

One of the Uefa stadium bans came here against England but, while article 73 of the governing bodys disciplinary regulations caps the number of VIP guests, team delegations, Uefa staff and those holding complimentary tickets, there is no limit on the number of school children invited to the match free of charge, with one adult accompanying every 10 children.

That led to the unsavoury scenes before kick-off, with Southgate believing the thousands of children in attendance were influenced by their elders.

How that aligns with the decision is difficult to understand, Southgate replied when asked if the attendance for the game makes a mockery of Uefas rulings.

From a development perspective, I want and need the team to be playing in front of supporters. But of course, thats not the point in this instance.

So Im torn on what we actually got from that and what the reality should have been. I think that needs some consideration without a doubt. In actual fact the atmosphere when we arrived at the stadium, there were kids lining the streets, it was really friendly.

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They were waving when we were walking out to warm up. I thought there were sort of pantomime boos when our team came out to warm up.

That was different with the taking of the knee but that felt like inherited thinking to me. We do it to try to educate and I think young people can only be influenced by older people.

I have no idea why people would choose to boo that gesture and very often young people cant know why theyre doing it so theyre being influenced by older adults  everyone knows what we believe and what we stand for.

What I would say is, I hear that still in our stadiums as well. Thats why we do it and continue to take that stand and we will keep doing that as a team.

Englands Nations League game at home to Italy next weekend will also be played behind closed doors, at Molinuex, following the behaviour of supporters ahead of the Euro 2020 final defeat to the same opponents last summer.

The PA news agency understands there is expected to be an attendance of between 2,000-3,000 at the home of Wolves as the Football Association welcomed applications from England Football-accredited under-14 clubs within a 50-mile radius of the stadium.
WOOSTER TWP.  Not all heroes wear capes; some wear caps and gowns and walk at graduation.

After battling a brain tumor, Christian Mendoza graduated with his class at Triway High School, enjoying a standing ovation as he made his way back to his seat after receiving his diploma.

The triumphant day capped a long road in his courageous recovery.

They beat childhood cancer: 'Live every moment.' Three high school grads eye hopeful futures after childhood cancers

With support by Brian Kiper and Pat Honza, Christian Mendoza receives his diploma from Triway school board member Donald Noble.

Symptoms at the start of his sophomore year were brutal. Mendoza braved prolonged vomiting and then severe headaches.

His mother, Heather Garnes, said after several exams and an MRI came the diagnosis.

His pediatrician called us that afternoon and said it was a brain tumor and we needed to get to the ER because his tumor was blocking pathways in his brain that caused hydrocephalus (a build-up of fluid in the brain), Garnes said, her eyes tearing as she recalled the day.

Christian Mendoza and his mom Heather Garnes share a special moment after the graduation ceremony at Triway Local.

Mendoza's condition grew worse as the fluid created pressure.

I suddenly felt like a bing, bang, bong in my head, Mendoza said, describing his experience.

Christian Mendoza's treatment for a brain tumor moves to Akron Children's Hospital

He was immediately transferred to Akron Childrens Hospital where oncologist Dr. Erin Wright said the tumor was located between the brainstem and cerebellum at the back of his skull. Doctors worked to drain the fluid in his brain.

Dr. Joel Katz, a pediatric neurosurgeon, and his medical team performed more than 20 surgeries on Mendoza.

The first surgery was to drain the pressure, Katz said. The tumor was removed a few days later in an 11-hour surgery. It was very complex because the tumor was invading very important parts of his brain stem, he said.

Christian Mendoza poses with the family rescue dog Bugs Bunny in his Wayne County home. The Triway Local graduate had multiple surgeries during his treatment in Akron Children's Hospital for a brain tumor for which he began having symptoms his sophomore year. He was able to rebound in time for graduation and walk in front of his peers to receive his diploma.

It followed later with shunt surgery, adding a G-tube to support his body with nutrition and treating blood clots that appeared between his brain and the skull.

It didnt end there for Mendoza as a complication developed.

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Posterior fossa syndrome (a condition that sometimes develops after brain tumor surgery) can lead to a wide variety of symptoms, including difficulty with speech, weakness, difficulty with walking, and many others that can lead to the need for significant therapies, Dr. Wright said.

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Mendoza lost his ability to talk and walk, but he didnt loose his determination. He began a new journey with rehabilitation and excessive physical therapy.

Silly String and glitter bombs help Mendoza stay positive, spark laughter

Christian Mendoza has a great sense of humor and loves to play jokes, those around him say. His humor and courage helped see him through a battle with a brain tumor through high school. He was able to walk with his class on graduation day, May 20.

Occupational therapist Brittany Holmes helped Mendoza to slowly regain his strength. For about six hours a day, six days a week he practiced how to walk, move his arms, and say few words.

We worked on reconnecting his body with his brain the way it was, Holmes said.

Mendoza kept a positive attitude. Even during the toughest times, he managed to look at the bright side and beat the pain with his strongest weapon  facetiousness.

He is a funny kinda kid, always (using) humor and it helps getting through his sessions, Holmes said.

Christian Mendoza's occupational therapist Brittani Holmes came to the graduaton to cheer him on as he received his diploma.

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For example, Mendoza would surprise doctors and nurses at Akron Children's with glitter bombs and silly string. He often played pranks on nurses by pretending to sleep then scare them.

Garnes told how her son would purposely hold his breath to set off the monitor alarms so the nurse on duty would have to come back into his room to check him.

Triway Local educators help Christian Mendoza stay current with schoolwork

Although Mendoza missed most of his sophomore and junior years, he was able to catch up with the support of the Triway High School intervention team.

Principal Scott Wharton said they provided the lessons, and he credits Mendoza for doing the hard work and Garnes for supporting her son.

All along he said he wanted to walk at graduation and that was his goal that he set, and we are so glad that we were able to assist him in that process, Wharton said.

Christian Mendoza enters Triway Local's stadium on graduation day.

Rick Grayshock was assigned by the school to be Mendozas aide. He assisted him with typing and writing as well as his physical needs at school, including monitoring his G-tube feeding.

You got to give him all the credit for his motivation and his desire to get up early in the morning and try to get better I know a lot of adults that wouldnt have that drive that 17-old kid had, Grayshock said.

Triway Local facilities: Superintendent Schindewolf, Hammond Construction representatives give latest update

Community raises money for a home makeover

Heather Garnes explains some of the renovations made to the bathroom of their home to accommodate her son's needs as he recovers.

As Mendoza won the hearts of the community and school with his sense of humor, teachers and students created a fundraising campaign to remodel his home so he could better navigate it.

Nearly $3,000 in donations were collected to redesign the bathroom and move Mendoza's bedroom to the first floor.

One of the therapists at the hospital helped me design it. We taped it out on the floor at the hospital to see how is he gonna step in? Where's he gonna sit? How's he gonna turn where the handrails going to be, Garnes said.

A new, specially-designed shower stall was among the home renovations funded by community donations.

The award for courage at Triway Local goes to Christian Mendoza

Surrounded by family, friends and his supporters, Mendoza walked to receive his diploma at Triway High School on May 20.

I see a lot of patients quite frankly and not everyone gets that opportunity, especially with the circumstances he was in. Im so proud of him, Holmes said.

Mendoza was surprised by a standing ovation on graduation day and was presented the Courage Award for his determination and persistence.

Wharton announced the award will be known as the Mendoza Courage Award and will be given each year to a student "who exemplifies that determination and hard work, the principal said.

After receiving his diploma, Triway Local graduating senior Christian Mendoza is greeted with a standing ovation by the entire stadium as he makes his way back to his seat.

As Mendoza's recovery continues, the new graduate is eyeing his future, happy and hopeful the rough days are behind him.

Christian has shown me how much effort he puts in, and if he can put in that much effort, how much effort I need to put in with all my patients, including him, Katz said.

This article originally appeared on The Daily Record: Titan strong: Determined Triway grad triumphs through brain tumor
(Getty Images)

Bad blood may well be spilled when George Kambosos Jr and Devin Haney go head to head in Melbourne today, as the pair clash to crown an undisputed lightweight champion.

Haney will be in hostile territory at Marvel Stadium as he puts his WBC belt on the line, while Australian Kambosos Jr defends his WBO, WBA and IBF straps against the American. Each fighter will also look to remain undefeated in the main-event contest, with Haneys professional record standing at 27-0 (15 knockouts), while Kambosos Jr is 20-0 (10 KOs). In his last outing, 28-year-old Kambosos Jr earned a career-defining victory over Teofimo Lopez, dethroning the American with a split-decision win in November. Meanwhile, 23-year-old Haney outpointed Joseph Diaz last April to retain his WBC title.

Kambosos Jr required two attempts to make weight on Friday, before declaring it was the art of war, baby, deception. The Australian continued: Let them believe that this was done. Anything is for a cause, anything is for a process. Trust me. Tomorrow, just be here. Art of war, deception, maybe I did it on purpose. Haney, meanwhile, was given a late boost by his fathers arrival in Australia. Bill Haney, who trains his son, was granted a visa on short notice and will be in the WBC champions corner in Marvel Stadium. Follow live updates below.

George Kambosos Jr vs Devin Haney

Pair face off to crown undisputed lightweight champion

Kambosos Jr holds WBO, WBA and IBF titles; Haney is WBC champ

Kambosos Jr has home advantage at Melbournes Marvel Stadium

Australian and his American opponent Haney are both unbeaten

Kambosos Jr vs Haney

05:16 , Alex Pattle

Round 11

Kambosos Jr needs a finish here and he seems to know it.

He goes after Haney, who evades deftly while flicking out some counter strikes.

Kambosos Jr vs Haney

05:12 , Alex Pattle

(Getty Images)

Kambosos Jr vs Haney

05:12 , Alex Pattle

Round 10

Final few rounds.

Kambosos Jr misses with an overhand right. Haney slings a jab into the Australians torso.

Story continues

Kambosos Jr with good body work of his own  a left hook then right hook.

The Australian grabs hold of Haneys glove to set up a left hand, and the referee warns the home favourite.

Haney continues with his disciplined approach, working behind the jab.

Kambosos Jr narrowly misses with an uppercut.

Kambosos Jr vs Haney

05:08 , Alex Pattle

Round 9

The Melbourne crowd roars on Kambosos Jr as Round 9 begins.

Haney pumps out more double-jabs, but Kambosos Jr responds with a heavy right straight that gets the WBC champions attention!

Now Haney goes down, but its deemed a slip! He seemed to trip under pressure from Kambosos Jr in the corner. Now the Australian stumbles while pursuing Haney.

The fighters trade hard right hands at the same time. This is a better spell for Kambosos Jr, who has caused a little swelling on Haneys face now.

Kambosos Jr vs Haney

05:04 , Alex Pattle

Round 8

Haney swings a big right hook that just misses.

Kambosos Jrs right eye looks to be surrounded by a couple of small cuts. The other side of his face is bruised.

The Australian is running out of time to make something happen. He goes after Haney and slams a left hook into the Americans midriff as the crowd cheers.

Kambosos Jr vs Haney

05:00 , Alex Pattle

Round 7

Indy Sport has Haney 5-1 up in terms of rounds as we enter the second half of this fight.

Short left hook lands for Kambosos Jr. He connects with a right straight, too, but it looks like Haney managed a counter left there.

Double-jab from Haney. Any time Kambosos Jr has some success, hes made to pay by the tourist.

Were getting to the point where Kambosos Jr is just about starting to take enough damage that you could imagine the right shot putting him down...

Kambosos Jr vs Haney

04:56 , Alex Pattle

Round 6

Theres a bit of Floyd Mayweather in this performance from Haney. Hes been very slick with his jab and is not having to exert any more energy than he needs to.

Kambosos Jr vs Haney

04:52 , Alex Pattle

Round 5

Haney with a jab and right hand to the body of Kambosos Jr. Now a slick uppercut!

Kambosos Jr is struggling to find a rhythm. Every time he looks to follow up his jab, hes missing with shots and is getting tied up.

The Australian connects with a left hook now, however. But straight away Haney reasserts himself with a jab.

Another left hook for Kambosos Jr, who then digs one into the stomach of Haney in close.

Kambosos Jr vs Haney

04:48 , Alex Pattle

Round 4

Indy Sport has Haney 29-28 up after three rounds.

Haney is still using his jab well as Round 4 ticks past its midway point.

Now the American lands an overhand right.

Theres swelling on the right side of Kambosos Jrs face. The Australian connects with a jab of his own, but Haney then lands two himself before catching Kambosos Jr with a well-timed counter right hook!

Kambosos Jr vs Haney

04:44 , Alex Pattle

Round 3

The lightweights trade clean blows. Again Kambosos Jrs shot is a counter-strike, with Haney getting back to leading the dance.

Kambosos Jr lets Haney throw a series of jabs, then the American throws a chopping right with the Australians back on the ropes.

This is a very tactical bout at the moment, but Kambosos Jr misses wildly now  not for the first time tonight. He almost falls onto the ropes.

Hes caught on the end of a hook as the bell sounds.

Kambosos Jr vs Haney

04:40 , Alex Pattle

Round 2

Already a more eventful start to the second round.

Kambosos Jr looks to counter Haney with an uppercut as the American steps in with a jab.

Again the Australian looks to counter, this time with a wild hook that misses...

Now Kambosos Jr catches Haney hard with a right hand! The American seems to wobble somewhat!

Kambosos Jr is on the front fooot now, pursuing Haney around the ring.

Kambosos Jr vs Haney

04:36 , Alex Pattle

Round 1

Decent jab for Haney, who presses forward in a measured fashion early on.

Kambosos Jr times his own jab nicely as Haney looks to circle.

Haney flicks out another jab, and Kambosos Jr misses with his counter-shot. Another clean jab by Haney.

Kambosos Jr fires back with a couple of hook-based one-twos, leading with his left both times. They get a good reaction out of the Melbourne crowd.

Kambosos Jr vs Haney

04:32 , Alex Pattle

Here we go, folks. There are chants for Kambosos Jr as the first bell sounds!

A lot of intense face-offs and back-and-forths this week.

Lets see how that translates in this main event.

Were under way!

Kambosos Jr vs Haney

04:30 , Alex Pattle

There are approximately 50,000 fans in attendance at Marvel Stadium for this huge clash.

Kambosos Jr vs Haney

04:29 , Alex Pattle

The icon Bruce Buffer is making the introductions...

Kambosos Jr vs Haney

04:25 , Alex Pattle

Cheers for home fighter Kambosos Jr as he emerges!

Kambosos Jr vs Haney

04:23 , Alex Pattle

Haney is out first to boos...

Kambosos Jr vs Haney

04:00 , Alex Pattle

Were expecting the ring walks for Kambsos Jr vs Haney any moment now...

Kambosos Jr vs Haney

03:55 , Alex Pattle

Haney was given a late boost by his fathers arrival in Australia. Bill Haney, who trains his son, was granted a visa on short notice and will be in the WBC champions corner in Marvel Stadium.

Kambosos Jr vs Haney

03:40 , Alex Pattle

Kambosos Jr required two attempts to make weight on Friday, before declaring it was the art of war, baby, deception. The Australian continued: Let them believe that this was done. Anything is for a cause, anything is for a process. Trust me. Tomorrow, just be here. Art of war, deception, maybe I did it on purpose.

Kambosos Jr vs Haney

03:20 , Alex Pattle

In his last outing, 28-year-old Kambosos Jr earned a career-defining victory over Teofimo Lopez, dethroning the American with a split-decision win in November. Meanwhile, 23-year-old Haney outpointed Joseph Diaz last April to retain his WBC title.

Kambosos Jr vs Haney

03:00 , Alex Pattle

Haney will be in hostile territory at Marvel Stadium as he puts his WBC belt on the line, while Australian Kambosos Jr defends his WBO, WBA and IBF straps against the American. Each fighter will also look to remain undefeated in the main-event contest, with Haneys professional record standing at 27-0 (15 knockouts), while Kambosos Jr is 20-0 (10 KOs).

Kambosos Jr vs Haney

02:40 , Alex Pattle

Heres all you need to know about tonights main event in one handy article...

Kambosos vs Haney time: When are ring walks in UK and US for fight this weekend?

Kambosos Jr vs Haney

02:08 , Alex Pattle

Welcome to The Independents live coverage of George Kambosos Jr vs Devin Haney!

Bad blood may well be spilled when Kambosos Jr and Haney go head to head in Melbourne today, as the pair clash to crown an undisputed lightweight champion.

Haney will be in hostile territory at Marvel Stadium as he puts his WBC belt on the line, while Australian Kambosos Jr defends his WBO, WBA and IBF straps against the American. Each fighter will also look to remain undefeated in the main-event contest, with Haneys professional record standing at 27-0 (15 knockouts), while Kambosos Jr is 20-0 (10 KOs). In his last outing, 28-year-old Kambosos Jr earned a career-defining victory over Teofimo Lopez, dethroning the American with a split-decision win in November. Meanwhile, 23-year-old Haney outpointed Joseph Diaz last April to retain his WBC title.

Kambosos Jr required two attempts to make weight on Friday, before declaring it was the art of war, baby, deception. The Australian continued: Let them believe that this was done. Anything is for a cause, anything is for a process. Trust me. Tomorrow, just be here. Art of war, deception, maybe I did it on purpose. Haney, meanwhile, was given a late boost by his fathers arrival in Australia. Bill Haney, who trains his son, was granted a visa on short notice and will be in the WBC champions corner in Marvel Stadium.
Photo Illustrations by Luis G. Rendon/The Daily Beast/Instagram/GoogleEarth

In April, Floridas Celebration Church released a bombshell report on its founding pastor, claiming he was a narcissist who belittled staff and treated them like servants while he and his wife enjoyed a luxurious, jet-setting lifestyle and multiple mansions.

Now the embattled former megachurch leader, Stovall Weems, is waging a legal brawl against the organization he founded in 1998, claiming its board of trustees staged a nefarious coup to make him and his wife Kerri pariahs to their flock and destroy their ability to form ministries elsewhere. The non-denominational church, based in Jacksonville, has locations as far-flung as the Netherlands and Paris, and boasts about 20,000 members.

The 52-year-old Weems, who for months has denied any wrongdoing, filed a defamation suit against Celebration, some of its trustees, and the churchs lawyer last weekend in the latest salvo of a months-long clash in the courts and in the press.

This case presents an egregious example of what happens when a group of people decide to weaponize false information to inflict harm and advance their personal and economic agendas, demonize someone they target as an adversary, and deceive the public into believing salacious lies are true, opens the complaint, which was first reported by local TV station News4JAX.

Enraged Ex Guns Down Two College Students in Megachurch Parking Lot

Celebrations damning report on Weems was posted on the churchs website, about two months after Weems filed for a temporary injunction to be reinstated into his job.

The document also accused Weems of making improper financial transactions, including flipping a house and selling it to the church for a $430,000 profitand using $500,000 in federal COVID-era Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) funds to invest in TurnCoin, an illiquid digital security that could be used by fans to buy or sell NFTs. (Weems denies these claims and also argues half the churchs board and others in church leadership invested in TurnCoin, too.)

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Many witnesses explained that the first rule to survive at the Church was We dont say no to Pastor. In this way, he was able to impose his will on others to force their compliance with his demands, reads Celebration Churchs narrative. Neither Stovall nor Kerri Weems served anyone at the Church. Instead, they demanded others to serve themthe antithesis of Christ-like personal sacrifice and service to others.

Spiritually, the Weemses have acted with arrogance, pride, deception, manipulation, selfishness, dishonesty, greed, entitlement, conceit, and unrepentance, the church adds.

Weems and his attorney, Shane B. Vogt, who represented former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin in her failed defamation suit against The New York Times, could not be reached for comment.

In a March 22 Instagram post, Weems wrote, I have not done anything wrong or unethical. My conscience is clean before God. However, Kerri and I are no longer welcome in the church we founded and have nurtured for 23 years. We have been shamed, shunned, and cut off by people who have disregarded our church bylaws and have slandered me with a variety of false and defamatory accusations about my leadership of Celebration Church and its mission.

To this day, my accusers havent asked me even one question or talked to me one time about any matter of concern, he added.

Celebration Church, in a statement to The Daily Beast, said: It is very unfortunate that the Weemses have chosen to continue pursuing legal action against Celebration Church. Their initial lawsuit in February forced into the public what was intended to be an internal investigation by the Board of Trustees. Celebration Church continues to stand by the validity and authenticity of the board investigation. We see this complaint as nothing more than a distraction from the ministry of Celebration Church and we will continue to move forward.

According to Weems latest complaint, trustees notified him that he was suspended and under investigation in January. The pastor was soon banned from his own organization, threatened with criminal prosecution should he set foot on its properties, and instructed not to contact anyone associated with the church.

The complaint calls Celebrations probe a sham and claims the main interviewees included a church employee with a well-known history of animosity toward the Weemses, other individuals with axes to grind, and people who witnessed private situations and conversations inside the Weemss home and were also subject to non-disclosure agreements. The couple claims they offered repeatedly to be interviewed by the church but were ignored.

Faced with an all-out war, Weems says he resigned on April 15 in an attempt to protect his family from public attacks. (The churchs narrative was posted online days later.)

The Defamatory Report was intentionally worded to falsely portray Pastor Weems and K. Weems as rich, living in mansions, and lining their pockets with the churchs money while engaging in unauthorized acts they were concealing from the church, the filing alleges. In reality, Pastor Weems is by no means wealthyprecisely because he did NOT do the things he has been falsely accused of doing.

Stovall Weems and Kerri Weems in front of Celebration Church Jacksonville. Photo Illustrations by Luis G. Rendon/The Daily Beast/Instagram/GoogleEarth

For his part, Weems claims he became a target after challenging a future trustee about alleged funny business with the churchs coffers.

His complaint claims a man who later became a trustee entered into an agreement with the church in 2018 to perform construction and land improvements on its affiliated properties, including a religious hunting retreat called Honey Lake Farms. The lawsuit says that in 2020, this trustee told Weems he planned to donate $1 million of in-kind construction-type services to the Honey Lake Farms mission.

But when the church began to receive invoices totaling $700,000, Weems confronted the man for allegedly overbilling or improperly billing the church for enormous sums of money.

The lawsuit says that while the man appeared contrite and vowed to ultimately donate his unpaid work, behind the scenes he was taking steps to oust Pastor Weems and K. Weems from the church they built. Weems complaint also accuses this churchgoer of feeding the other Trustees and senior church members lies and misinformation, falsely claiming that Pastor Weems was improperly manipulating and misdirecting Celebration Churchs finances or was guilty of some unspecified and vague wrongful conduct.

While Celebration Church has yet to respond to the amended complaint, its lawyers did file a motion to dismiss in late April, arguing, This action presents the latest chapter in a campaign of deception, manipulation, distraction and abuse of power by Stovall and Kerri Weems

The church notes that the origin of the dispute between the Weemses and Celebration dates back to March 2018, when Weems claims to have had a first-hand encounter with Jesus Christ during an evening Seder service. The filing alleges that Weems said the Lord deposited in him a divine business model on how to restructure the church and many of its ministries.

According to Celebrations motion, Kerri told the board of trustees in December 2020 that her husband's revelation mandated that the church separate certain ministries into new, for-profit, companies that would be managed by the Weemses to keep the churchas the bride of Christpure. In June 2021, the filing alleges, Weems told the board that crafting his business plan was one of the most sacred things that has been done here.

Indeed, the church underscored Weems supposed divine meeting with God in its online report, calling it a pivotal moment in Celebrations history.

Guest pastor Paul Wilbur, a messianic Jew, came to explain and reenact the ancient Hebrew/Judaic Passover Supper at Celebration, the report alleges. At the event, Weems became transfixed on a piece of bread he was holding. Weems stared blankly at the bread for a long time and then appeared bewildered, stunned, and speechless as his attention turned back to the events on the stage.

After the event, the report states, Weems claimed to have been transported to the Last Supper and that he was physically with Jesus Christ and that Jesus spoke with him, directing his attention to the future and what Christ wanted for the Weemses to accomplish on Earth.

This report takes no position on whether the Encounter was real. There is no way to confirm or denylegally or factuallywhat was going on inside Weems mind during that time, the document continues, before adding that Weemses were under a tremendous amount of personal stress during this time that may have impacted Weems mindset that evening.

Since then, Celebration claims, Weems used the Encounter to justify his authority and maintain control of the Church.

The church report also detailed instances where the Weemses behaved imperiously with employees and alleged that about 10 percent of the churchs total revenue went to their compensation and expenses. Despite these privileges, the Weemses treated people who attended to them as inferior, the document alleged, adding that the couple created instructions for their assistants on how to maintain their residences so the Weemses would not be bothered during their transitions between homes.

This was so the Weemses could focus on their spiritual acuity at all times, the report states.

According to the narrative, the pastor and his wife gave staffers schedules of their required food and beverage service so that their employees would know how to serve them food and drinks, and instructions on how the meals should be served, such as on real dishes on top of a serving tray.

These instructionssimilar to over-the-top green room riders required by celebritiesreflected the Weemses immense entitlement and self-importance, the churchs report argues.

Anonymous witnesses featured in the churchs account described how they were at the Weemses beck and call, leading one person to leave church due to crippling anxiety and panic attacks.

One witness reported that she had to beg for one hour per day in which she was not required to immediately respond to text messages, the report alleges. Another reported that Weems instructed an employee to drive to a liquor store late at night and deliver a bottle of bourbon to his house because he did not want to be seen purchasing liquor.

Another recounted that an employee was instructed to purchase a car for Weems and deliver it to his house, the document continued. After the employee delivered the car as demanded, Weems told him to find his own ride home.

Meanwhile, the Florida Times-Union, a daily newspaper in Jacksonville, reported that Weems and his wife are being sued by a bank that says they owe $716,000 on loans opened by businesses they run. Weems declined to comment for the outlets report.

In an April Instagram video, Weems and Kerri seemed unfazed when addressing the church drama by answering questions from their followers.

Its illegal, its unlawful, its setting a terrible precedent of lawlessness in the church in America, Weems told the camera. They should have never, they should have never, they never should have done it, and the trustees and anybody else involved, they will be held accountable for their actions, regardless of what happens to us.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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The senators at the helm of negotiating gun legislation are looking to the Florida law passed in 2018 after the school shooting in Parkland as a potential blueprint for the nation, Sen. Chris Murphy said Sunday.

Murphy (D-Conn.) said on CNNs State of the Union that the bill passed by a Republican legislature and signed into law by then-Republican Gov. Rick Scott has elements that senators are considering as they look to pass gun legislation following a school shooting that took place in Uvalde, Texas, killing 19 children and two teachers.

Well, Sen. Scott, then-Gov. Scott, passed that law in Florida because it was the right thing to do, but also because Republicans saw it as good politics. We have to make the case for Republicans that right now this is good politics, Murphy said.

The Florida law, known as the red flag law, raised the age to buy long guns, including AR-15s, from 18 to 21, added a three-day waiting period, created a program to allow trained school staff to carry guns and invested $400 million in mental health and school security.

The template for Florida is the right one. Which is do some significant mental health investment, some school safety money and some modest, but impactful, changes in gun laws, Murphy said. That's the kind of package we're putting together right now. That's the kind of package I think can pass the Senate.

In terms of raising the age on long guns from 18 to 21, Murphy didnt say whether that would be added to the national law. The senators involved, including Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas), are focused on writing legislation that will reach 60 to 70 votes.



We're having a conversation about that specific population, 18 to 21, and how to make sure that only the right people, law-abiding citizens, are getting their hands on weapons, he said.

Changes to the background check system are also on the table, Murphy said. While he conceded the Senate wasn't likely to pass comprehensive background checks, changes to the existing system were possible.

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Sen. Pat Toomey, who has worked to expand background checks since 2013, said Sunday he hoped the final Senate package would include that policy change. I certainly hope were going to have an expansion of background checks, Toomey (R-Pa.) said on CBS Face the Nation.

He added: I just think it makes sense.

More than 250 Texas gun enthusiasts and conservative donors placed a full-page ad in Sunday's Dallas Morning News endorsing the negotiations between Cornyn and Murphy, specifically, the expanded background checks, red flag laws and a higher age minimum to buy certain firearms.

While Murphy has said he is confident in the bipartisan effort to make something come of gun legislation, he knows attempts in the past have failed.

I think the possibility of success is better than ever before. But I think the consequences of failure for our entire democracy are more significant than ever, Murphy said to host Jake Tapper.
SEOUL, South Korea  North Korea test-fired a barrage of short-range ballistic missiles from multiple locations toward the sea on Sunday, South Koreas military said, extending a provocative streak in weapons demonstrations this year that U.S. and South Korean officials say may culminate with a nuclear test explosion.

Possibly setting a single-day record for North Korean ballistic launches, eight missiles were fired in succession over 35 minutes from at least four different locations, including from western and eastern coastal areas and two inland areas north of and near the capital, Pyongyang, South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff said.

It said the missiles flew 110 to 670 kilometers (68 to 416 miles) at maximum altitudes of 25 to 80 kilometers (15 to 56 miles).

A woman watches a TV screen showing a news program reporting about North Korea's missile launch with a file footage of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, at a train station in Seoul, South Korea, Sunday, June 5, 2022. (Lee Jin-man/AP)

Hours later, Japan and the United States conducted a joint ballistic missile exercise aimed at showing their rapid response capability and strong determination to counter threats, Japans Defense Ministry said in a statement.

South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Gen. Won In-Choul held a video conference with Gen. Paul LaCamera, an American general who heads the South Korea-U.S. combined forces command in Seoul, and they reaffirmed the allies joint defense posture, according to the military in Seoul.

Sung Kim, U.S. President Joe Bidens special envoy for North Korea, also discussed the launches with South Korean officials while on a visit to Seoul. They expressed deep regret that North Korea was continuing weapons development despite grappling with a COVID-19 outbreak at home, Seouls Foreign Ministry said.

Japanese Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi said none of the missiles fell inside Japans exclusive economic zone.

US and South Korea fire missiles in exercise following North Korean ballistic missile demonstration

The launches came a day after the U.S. aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan concluded a three-day naval drill with South Korea in the Philippine Sea, apparently their first joint drill involving a carrier since November 2017, as the countries move to upgrade their defense exercises in the face of North Korean threats.

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North Korea has long condemned the allies combined military exercises as invasion rehearsals and often countered with its own missile drills, including short-range launches in 2016 and 2017 that simulated nuclear attacks on South Korean ports and U.S. military facilities in Japan.

Discussing the launches with his national security officials, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol lamented that North Korea was firing missiles at a pace of once every nine days this year. He vowed to strengthen the countrys defense in cooperation with the United States, according to his office.

The launches marked North Koreas 18th round of missile tests in 2022 alone  a streak that has included the countrys first demonstrations of intercontinental ballistic missiles in nearly five years.

Experts say North Korean leader Kim Jong Un wants to force the United States to accept the idea of the North as a nuclear power and negotiate economic and security concessions from a position of strength.

South Korean and U.S. officials say there are signs that North Korea is also pressing ahead with preparations at its nuclear testing ground in the northeastern town of Punggye-ri. The Norths next nuclear test would be its seventh since 2006 and the first since September 2017, when it claimed to have detonated a thermonuclear bomb to fit on its ICBMs.

On Friday, Sung Kim, the U.S. envoy, said Washington is preparing for all contingencies in close coordination with its Asian allies. The United States has vowed to push for additional international sanctions if North Korea conducts a new nuclear test, but the prospects for further U.N. Security Council measures appear dim.

Russia and China vetoed a U.S.-sponsored resolution that would have imposed additional sanctions on North Korea over its latest ballistic tests on May 25, which South Koreas military said involved an ICBM on a medium-range trajectory and two short-range weapons. Those tests came as Biden wrapped up his trip to South Korea and Japan, where he reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to defend both allies.

North Korea in March launched an ICBM almost straight up at a full-range and saw it fly higher and longer than any weapon it had ever tested, demonstrating the potential to reach the entirety of the U.S. mainland.

While Kims ICBMs have garnered much international attention, he has also spent the past three years expanding his arsenal of shorter range solid-fuel missiles threatening South Korea and Japan. He has punctuated his tests with repeated comments that the North would use its nuclear weapons proactively when threatened or provoked, which experts say portend an escalatory nuclear doctrine that may create greater concerns for neighbors.

Nuclear negotiations between Washington and Pyongyang have stalled since 2019 over disagreements in exchanging the release of crippling U.S.-led sanctions for the Norths disarmament steps.

Despite deepening economic woes, Kim has shown no willingness to fully surrender an arsenal he sees as his strongest guarantee of survival and is clearly trying to convert the dormant denuclearization talks into a mutual arms reduction negotiation with the United States, experts say.

Kims pressure campaign comes as the country deals with a deadly COVID-19 outbreak across his largely unvaccinated autocracy that lacks public health tools.

GAVI, the nonprofit that runs the U.N.-backed COVAX distribution program, said Friday it understands that North Korea has accepted an offer of vaccines from ally China and has started to administer doses. It isnt immediately clear how many doses of which vaccines the North received or how the country was rolling them out.

Asssociated Press writer Mari Yamaguchi in Tokyo contributed to the report.
Jun. 5Uncertainty is among the reasons the move to allow college athletes to do endorsements and otherwise make money off their notoriety from playing sports has dominated headlines over the past year.

Not only is the concept at the same time typically considered both revolutionary and overdue, it is also being implemented differently from state to state as rules vary and questions remain about what is and what is not allowed.

Some schools reportedly have jumped headfirst into the marketing pool, going up to and perhaps over the line of demarcation of legality.

Others have been conservative, wary of the NCAA eventually striking back against the rule-breakers.

Ryan Day has said Ohio State is attempting to balance doing enough without doing too much, but the issue of uncertainty remains.

The school tried to work on that with a breakfast event for local businesses this week.

Day, director of athletics Gene Smith and assistant AD Carey Hoyt took part in conversations about how the department and potential advertisers can work together to create opportunities for Buckeye athletes.

While the focus of the day was to be on the creation of a "corporate ambassador program," Day made headlines by dropping a dollar figure for maintaining a championship-quality roster: $13 million.

That is not the amount of money needed to put together a top recruiting class, which technically is forbidden by NCAA rules that may or may not be enforced anytime soon.

Rather, Day said it was the size of war chest he expects to be required to satisfy current players who could transfer after the season and play at a new school without having to sit out for a year.

"One phone call and they're out the door," Day told the gathering according to Cleveland.com. "We cannot let that happen at Ohio State. I'm not trying to sound the alarm, I'm just trying to be transparent about what we're dealing with."

Schools cannot pay players a salary, but they are able to connect players with businesses who want to compensate them in exchange for various services, including promoting their products or brands.

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Per the athletics department, the goals of the corporate ambassador program include "providing a mechanism for student-athletes to utilize their name, image, and likeness while gaining meaningful marketing and advertisement experience" and teach players how to navigate corporate relationships according to material the athletics department provided after the event.

Terms of service and compensation will vary from deal to deal, but Ohio State suggests a 12-month package that includes 12 social media endorsements, six on-site appearances and one commercial advertisement.

The day also included a second panel discussion during which OSU lacrosse player Mitchell Pehlke talked about his experiences with NIL deals along with representatives from Express, Giant Eagle and Playa Bowls.

According to OSU, the school's athletes have executed more than 900 NIL deals so far with players from every team sport taking part and total compensation close to $3.5 million.
Last week was Grandparents Day at my daughters school, just off Cape. Ive spent 42 years as a classroom teacher and my daughter has spent another 23 in schools as a social worker. There are always children with no one to show up for them. Would I mind coming out to keep some little kids company? Would I mind? Kids have been my life.

Ive always been a middle and upper school man. So it was a treat when I was asked to read a story to first-graders. The little story I read aloud was about being your best self, being brave, determined and kind. When the story was done, the kids swarmed in to give me a hug.

Lawrence Brown

Teaching has always been about love: love of subject, love of school  and above all, love for the kids. Its a Santa Claus kind of thing. Your bag might contain other gifts, but you have what you have. The kids in front of you might have been some other peoples kids, but theyre not. So you open your bag wide and give them everything youve got. Its what teachers do.

My daughters school has a resident law enforcement officer, a genial, sandy-haired fellow. It was the day after the Texas shooting and he was making a point to be visible in the front hallway as kids came in  just for added reassurance.

Photo Shoot: Memorial Day 2022 at Marguerite Small Elementary in West Yarmouth

When my own school first discussed active shooter drills, I worried it might cause more anxiety than it would relieve. Finally, we reached a point where there was no longer a choice. Americans are shooting each other, day by day, faster than Ukrainians are dying, day by day, under Russian siege.

When it happens in New York, deliberately targeting racial minorities, were told theres no way to pass red flag laws (withholding gun permits from clinically unstable or violent persons) without infringing on free speech. Racially-motivated shooters often post diatribes online, but conservatives insist that replacement theory is protected speech  even when threatening mass murder  and that liberals want to use mass shootings as a pretext for silencing conservatives.

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Alleged school threat: Bail set for Hyannis man charged with posting school threat, firearm violation

If the shooter was a mad-man, as the Texas killer appears to have been, then supposedly we should be talking about crazy people, not firearms. Either way, it never seems the right moment to address the matter, so were told.

Running beneath the argument is a set of assumptions more dangerous even than guns. America has long since passed the point of honest disagreement over what is best. Now we suspect each others motives, even each others goodness. Supposedly, liberals cant wait to replace white Americans with colored ones of all hues, so long as they reject traditional Christian values.

High power: Three Cape Cod deacons answer calling to enter into the priesthood

The more wicked we imagine other people to be, the more righteous we feel in opposing them. We cannot be part of the forces of light unless our opponents are satanic. More and more, our politics are being polluted with this sort of narcissism. What is apparently more frightening than the mental image of school hallways strewn with the shattered bodies of children? The idea that what liberals really want is to disarm conservatives so they can impose tyranny upon them.

Stuck in Hyannis traffic, I found myself looking at two stickers in some guys rear windshield. YOU ARE NOT A VICTIM, said one, AND NOBODY OWES YOU ANYTHING. The other was an NRA logo.

A few weeks earlier, I saw this: My wife, sure. My dog, maybe. My gun, NEVER! Just in case we were unsure about the drivers priorities.

Living wage: Senate considers cash, regulations to boost pay for direct care workers

Also last week, I joined middle and upper kids from several schools across the Cape at the Human Rights Academy meeting. COVID had peeled half the member schools away but finally, the kids could meet in person and regroup.

They worried that time lost from school had made their classmates less empathetic, more rude and self-centered. Before COVID, said one girl, my friends were an open book. Now, theyre closed. But when asked to name their potential gifts to the world, the kids named courage, love, persistence, generosity, hope  to move forward with Grace, said one eloquent teacher.

If we cannot better protect our children, we put all of those gifts at risk. Our crisis is deeper than political; its spiritual, a failure of love. Why cant we wish for everyone what their mothers wished for them at the moment of their birth?

Because whatever we might say, we have come to love other things more. The horrors of recent weeks are simply the price of that failure, extracted from us in pain, in loss, in bewilderment, over and over again.

Lawrence Brown is a columnist for the Cape Cod Times. Email him at columnresponse@gmail.com.

This article originally appeared on Cape Cod Times: Opinion: Suspicion, divisiveness prevent passage of gun safety laws
Photo Illustration by Luis G. Rendon/The Daily Beast/Getty/AARC

When asked about the role of the CIA in the Watergate affair, Senator Howard Baker famously said, There are animals crashing around in the forest. I can hear them but I cant see them. As co-chairman of the Senate Watergate committee, Baker filed an appendix to the panels final report raising what he said were unanswered questions about the actions of CIA director Richard Helms. The Agency, Baker suggested, knew more about the burglars than Helms ever admitted.

In writing a book about the complex relationship between the two ruthless Richards, Nixon and Helms, I found much to support Bakers suspicions. Helms was far closer to burglar Howard Hunt than he admitted under oath. He and Hunt were longtime friends who lunched three to six times a year, sharing personal and professional confidences. Hunt gave Helms a wedding present in 1968. Helms returned the favor by promoting Hunts spy novels to powerful Hollywood friends as possible movie material. And there is compelling, if not conclusive, testimony from two CIA officers, that Hunt passed intelligence reports to Helms while working for the White House.

But I also discovered the full story is off-limits to the American people. Key details of the CIAs relationship with three of the Watergate burglars are still shrouded in official secrecy, even on the 50th anniversary of the break-in that lead to the downfall of President Richard Nixon.

An October 1970 memo shows that the agencys first statement about the burglars was false. After the arrest of five burglars in the offices of the Democratic National Committee early in the morning of June 17, 1972, the agency claimed that the men were former employees with whom we have had no dealings since their retirement. But the partially declassified memo shows that the agencys Office of Security approved a request for utilization of Hunt for a project whose name is redacted. The memo was written six months after Hunts supposed retirement from the Agency and 20 months before the botched break-in.

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How the CIA Really Won Hearts and Minds

At the time, Hunt was working at the Mullen Company, a Washington public relations firm, in a position he obtained with the help of letter of recommendation from Helms. The Mullen company was utilized by the Agency for commercial cover purposes, according to another redacted CIA memo. In July 1971 Hunt informed the Agency he had been assigned to the White House staff but continued to devote part of his time to the Mullen company work, the memo stated. The next four lines of the document are redacted.

That memo also explained the CIA connections of Robert Bennett, owner of the Mullen Company, but censored the details. A paragraph about Hunts employment stated, Approval was issued on 19 March 1971 for Mr. Bennetts use, followed by a one line redaction.

In context, the deleted passages lend credence to the notion that Hunt may have been working on secret CIA operations while he was working for the Nixon White House, something the agency has always denied. The redactions, of course, also make it impossible to determine the truth.

A redacted FBI memo from May 1973 conceals details about Hunts role in breaking into the office of the psychiatrist of Daniel Ellsberg, the former Defense Department analyst who leaked the Pentagon Papers to The New York Times. The memo was addressed to Acting FBI Director Mark Felt who was serving as a confidential source, known as Deep Throat, for Washington Post reporter Bob Woodward.

Ten lines about the CIA involvement in the Ellsberg case are redacted, including information about Hunts grand jury testimony, which is usually not made public. The redactions make it difficult to reach conclusions about CIA involvement with Hunt, other than the government is determined to conceal it well into the 21st century.

The details of the CIAs post-retirement support for burglar James McCord, a former senior security officer, also remain classified. Helms told the Senate Watergate Committee that he had met with McCord a few times, giving the impression he barely knew the man. In fact, Helms wrote McCord a letter of commendation upon his retirement, and McCord displayed an autographed photo of Helms in his office that was inscribed with deep appreciation, Dick. [Underscore in original].

One redacted CIA memo lists the many undercover operatives who interviewed for jobs at a private security firm started by McCord in 1970. Twelve lines about an undercover operations officer who knew both McCord and Hunt are still withheld from public view.

In May 1973 investigators learned that McCord had sent four letters to Helms after his arrest outlining his plans for defending himself at trial. The Agency did not share the letters with the FBI, despite their obvious relevance to the Watergate investigation. Three top CIA officials were called by the House Armed Services Committee to explain the Agencys action. In a draft history of the Watergate affair, obtained in 2019 by the conservative watchdog group Judicial Watch, five lines of commentary on their testimony are redacted. The nature of McCords back-channel communications to Helms is still too sensitive for the agency to disclose

The agency eventually admitted that one of the burglars, Eugenio Rolando Martinez, was on its payroll at the time of the break-in. As a full-time CIA contract employee from 1961 to 1969, Martinez had served as a boat captain on hundreds of sabotage and terrorism operations against Cuban targets. The names of the two case officers to whom he reported at the time of his arrest are redacted in the draft history.

In 2005, Martinez sat for an oral history with Timothy Naftali, then the director of the Nixon Library in Yorba Linda California. The Martinezs interview is captured on two compact discs found in the library. One of the two disks is entirely classified.

So Howard Bakers suspicions about the hidden hand of the CIA cannot be dismissed even today. The CIA animals crashed around in the Watergate forest a long time ago, but we are still not allowed to see the government records that document what they were doingthanks to a regime of official secrecy that prioritizes the CIAs interests over the historical record of the greatest political scandal in American history.

Jefferson Morley is author of the forthcoming book Scorpions Dance: The President, the Spymaster and Watergate (St. Martins Press).

The Daily Beast/Macmillan

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The governors office offers plenty of criticism of Virginias public schools, much of it justified. But the state of education in the Commonwealths classrooms during kindergarten through 12th grade also offers reasons to be proud.

Today, we feature the work of the winning writer in the local fifth annual Martin Luther King Jr. Essay Contest and two finalists.

The contest is open to all Charlottesville City and Albemarle County Public School senior English students. This year, they were invited to produce a 500-word essay on the theme Where Do We Go From Here: Chaos or Community?

This was the title of Kings final book before the preacher who engineered Americas nonviolent civil rights revolution for Black people was assassinated.

The essay winner, Jakia Maupin, and both finalists, Venetia Smith and Kaymin Hester, all came from Charlottesville High School.

A broad swath of community support enabled their work. Public school teachers honed their skills. The 37th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration and Worship Service, developed by Mount Zion First ABC and organized by a local committee was also involved. The Piedmont Virginia Community College English faculty and academic dean served as essay judges. The Albemarle County Rotary Club Foundation provided cash awards of $500 for the winner and $100 for each of the finalists.

The expressions of passion and hope by the essayists struck us most. Too often do adults pass off adolescents as self-absorbed and indifferent to the larger realities shaping the world around them. Readers will find none of that in these essays.These young people thought deeply about their charge and produced remarkable reflections on life. Those reflections include anger and frustration at injustice. They spring from the love of young people applying a modern-day consideration of Kings famous 1963 quote: Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.

Even more than anger and frustration, the essays demonstrate determination to make the changes that the writers believe will make the world a better place. Whether or not readers agree with their personal interpretations, anyone who cant see their passion and hope has been blinded by cynicism. The capacity to care for those less fortunate and the ability to believe in a better world define youth.

Readers will find a devotion to family from the narrowest to the broadest sense. The essays include more than recitation of facts; they offer unique insights worth considering about what this community and this country should strive for. Common to all the writing is the recognition that while acknowledging past injustices, nothing comes from the exercise if it doesnt inspire actions that lead us toward a better future.

Dont look for glib naivete from these products of Virginias public schools. Look for raw emotions that empower thought-provoking analytical skills and even the occasional literary turn of phrase.

Enjoy.
Yakima Police Department Capt. Shawn Boyle shares details about the case of a missing infant during a press conference at YPD headquarters Sunday, May 29, 2022. The infant was found in Union Gap. She was not harmed, Boyle said.
Leo Adams house, perhaps the most famous creation by Yakimas preeminent visual artist, is worth a visit under any circumstances.
U.S. Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler, left, chats with Susan K. Neal, executive director of Battle Ground HealthCare, during a tour of the facility last month. In the background is front of RD2, an ultraviolet disinfecting machine.
A Puyallup resident wears his Kel-Tec RDB and several magazines of ammunition during a gun rights rally at the Capitol in Olympia in January 2018. A lawsuit filed Friday seeks to prevent Washington Senate Bill 5078, which outlaws the import and sale of any magazine that holds more than 10 rounds of ammunition, from going into effect.
One of the ironies of Russias war against Ukraine  ostensibly fought to prevent that nation from joining the North Atlantic Treaty Organization  has been its impact on two of Europes traditionally neutral states, Finland and Sweden. On May 18, just 84 days after the invasion, Swedish and Finnish ambassadors handed over applications to join NATO in a public ceremony at the alliances headquarters in Brussels.

Yet in the rush to give Putin a black eye by embracing Finland and Sweden, U.S. and NATO leaders may be failing to consider the potential costs of inducting two more countries into what, after all, is intended to be a collective defense organization.

There are only two clear-cut benefits to bringing in the two Nordic nations. The first is symbolic: providing a clear demonstration of European and democratic solidarity against Russian aggression in Eastern Europe. The second is technical: Admitting Finland and Sweden would better align the membership of NATO with the EU, avoiding the unlikely but problematic scenario in which an EU member state is subject to aggression but is not covered by NATOs mutual-defense pact.

In every other respect, however, the question of Finnish and Swedish membership is more complicated and worrisome. Consider overall European defense capacity.

Yes, Finland and Sweden have highly advanced economies. They could be net contributors to NATOs technological capabilities through national champions like Ericsson AB and Nokia Oyj. They are also more capable militarily than some other European states  particularly Finland, which has maintained conscription into the post-Cold War period and has a relatively wide range of military competencies, including the continents largest artillery force.

Yet from the point of view of existing NATO members  and particularly the U.S.  its still not necessarily a net win. Finland and Sweden have long focused their militaries on defending their own territories, raising doubts about their value in contributing to a common defense, which is at the heart of NATOs charter.

And while both nations have pledged to increase their military spending and ability to bolster Europes broader defenses, it is also possible that they would not. Instead, they may free-ride on Americas military strength  and its nuclear umbrella  as so many European states have done for years. According to the International Monetary Fund, neither country comes close to meeting the NATO goal of spending 2% of GDP on defense.

Consider also the question of the defensibility of new NATO territory. Admitting Sweden could be strategically beneficial, allowing NATO forces to better control the Baltic Sea and to use Gotland Island, at an important chokepoint off the Baltic States, as a staging ground for any future conflict.

Finnish territory, in contrast, is a strategic nightmare. It would dramatically increase the alliances exposure to any future attacks by Moscow: the country shares an 800-mile border with Russia that, as a recent study from the Center for Strategic and International Studies put it, is highly exposed to Russian military threats.

There are grab bag of other reasons for caution, including the usual concerns about expanding the alliance to an ever-more unwieldy set of member states. It doesnt take a genius to predict that 32 nations will be even harder to manage than 30.

Article 10 of the North Atlantic Treaty makes clear that existing members may invite new states to join if they contribute to the security of the North Atlantic area. By that standard, the strategic case for admitting Sweden and Finland to NATO is not a slam-dunk.
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As part of a special 12-hour drive, over 40,000 motorists were penalised for traffic violations on June 4, a Mumbai police official said. Of the 40,320 cases that were registered, the highest, 10,338 cases, were for riding two-wheelers or riding pillions without helmets during the drive that took place between 9 am and 9 pm on Friday (June 3), he said.

"Action was taken against owners of 9,847 vehicles for illegal parking, while 3,310 cases were made for unnecessary honking. The action was taken against 4,794 vehicles parked outside railway stations," he said.

Also read: Maruti Suzuki Dzire only sedan among top 25 best-selling cars, proves popularity of SUVs in India

"Action was taken against owners of 597 vehicles for wrong-side driving, 50 vehicles for silencer modification, and 98 for overspeeding. We also penalised 329 food delivery vehicles," the official added.

The drive was manned by personnel from the traffic police and Local Arms, he informed.

(With inputs from PTI)

Live TV

#mute
New Delhi: Anand Mahindra, who has 9.3 million Twitter followers, is frequently seen interacting with his supporters in public. Anyone would laugh at his sense of humour. A Twitter user recently inquired about his age. As one user put it, "Mr Anand ji, How old are you?"

Yes, youve understood my sentiment exactly https://t.co/PATSQnieOe  anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) June 5, 2022

Mahindra Group chairman responded by saying, "What? You dont trust Uncle Google to give you the answer??", with a smile and blushing emoji.

What? You dont trust Uncle Google to give you the answer?? https://t.co/DGlmuTldlA  anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) June 5, 2022

In just three hours, the tweet has received over 1,300 likes and 174 people have replied to it.

Users have informed Mahindra that Google is more like an aunty than an uncle because the search engine responds to questions in a woman's voice.

"Age is just a number," several users said, praising Mahindra's humorous response.

Anand Mahindra is 67 years old, according to Google. The Mahindra Group is now led by Anand Mahindra. Mahindra received a Magna Cum Laude from Harvard College and an MBA from Harvard Business School in 1977. (1981).

Mahindra has been awarded India's third-highest civilian honour, the Padma Bhushan Award (2020). The President of the French Republic named him a "Knight in the National Order of the Legion of Honour" (2016), and the President of Italy named him a "Grand Officer of the Order of the Star of Italy" (2013).

Mahindra also founded the Nanhi Kali initiative, which has provided high-quality education to approximately half a million underprivileged girls over the previous two decades.
New Delhi: Gujarat Board SSC or Class 10 Result 2022 will be declared on Monday (June 6) at 8 AM by Gujarat Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Board (GSHSEB). Candidates will be able to check their SSC results on the official GSEB website on gseb.org.

The GSEB Class 10 exams 2022 were conducted from March 28, 2022 till April 9, 2022 in several centres around the state. The Gujarat board Sanskrit first exam result will also be declared tomorrow. Gujarat Education Minister Jitu Vaghani had informed about the result dates through his Twitter on June 3.

As many as 9.72 lakh students appeared for the GSEB SSC exam 2022 this year. Candidates will be able to access their GSEB SSC result 2022 through their 6-digit seat number.

GSEB SSC result 2022: How to check

1. Visit the official website at gseb.org

2. On the homepage, click on the 'GSEB SSC result 2022' link.

3. Enter login credentials and submit.

4. Your SSC result will appear on the screen.

5. Download and take a printout for future reference.

GSEB SSC result 2022: Websites to check

gseb.org

gsebeservice.com

In 2021, the SSC Class 10 exam pass percentage was 100% as the exam was cancelled in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.

GSEB released the GSEB Class 12 or HSC General stream results on Saturday (June 4). The pass percentage for the GSEB HSC exam was 86.91 percent this year.
New Delhi: As four Punjab Congress leaders and former ministers joined the Bharatiya Janata Party, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday (June 4, 2022) said that BJP will play a big role in the politics of the state and will emerge as the largest party in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. While addressing state BJP leaders, including core group members, office-bearers and district presidents, Shah also hit out at the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab and said that in just three months, its face of "deceit and deception has been exposed".

"BJP will play a big role in the state politics...Whosoever wants to join hands with us will have to be a small partner and we will also welcome those who want to come into the BJP fold," he was quoted as saying by the PTI news agency.

Shah also recalled the historic sacrifices of the people of Punjab for the protection of religion and rights of the people.

"I want to assure the people of Punjab that the Centre and the country stand with every citizen of Punjab and this crisis situation in Punjab will not be allowed to worsen," the Union Home Minister said.

  @BJP4Punjab  , ,                                               pic.twitter.com/BM8VjOE0mQ  Amit Shah (@AmitShah) June 4, 2022

"One shudders to think what will it (AAP) do in five years," Shah said as he was apparently hitting out at the AAP government over the law and order situation.

He assured his party workers that the BJP will emerge as the largest political party during the 2024 general elections as people are "dissatisfied" with the AAP and they are waiting to root them out in the next elections.

Shah, while putting all political rumours to rest, said the BJP will contest elections on its own and whosoever wanted to join it will have to contest on its 'lotus' symbol.

The remarks came after four Punjab Congress leaders - Raj Kumar Verka, Balbir Singh Sidhu, Sunder Sham Arora and Gurpreet Singh Kangar - joined the BJP in Chandigarh.

Former Congress MLA from Barnala, Kewal Dhillon, and former SAD MLAs Sarup Chand Singla and Mohinder Kaur Josh also joined the BJP.

They joined the BJP in the presence of Union ministers Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Som Parkash, state unit chief Ashwani Sharma, and senior party leaders Dushyant Gautam, Tarun Chugh, Sunil Jakhar and Manjinder Singh Sirsa.

Balbir Sidhu, a three-time MLA from Mohali, was the health minister in the previous Congress government, while Gurpreet Kangar, a three-time MLA from Rampura Phul, was the revenue minister.

Verka, a prominent Dalit leader from the Majha region, is also a three-time legislator and was the minister for social justice and and empowerment and minorities in the previous government.

Sunder Sham Arora, a former MLA from Hoshiarpur, was the industry and commerce minister in the previous Congress government.

Balbir Sidhu's brother Amarjit Singh Sidhu, who is the mayor of Mohali corporation, also joined the BJP.

Balbir Sidhu, Sunder Sham Arora and Gurpreet Kangar were dropped from the ministries after the Congress replaced Amarinder Singh with Charanjit Singh Channi as the chief minister last year.

After Sunil Jakhar left the Congress and joined the saffron party, it was speculated that more leaders would quit the grand old party.

(With agency inputs)
New Delhi: After Qatar, Kuwait on Sunday (June 5) summoned the Indian Ambassador over controversial remarks of a BJP leader against Prophet Mohammad. As per PTI, the Kuwait Foreign Ministry said that the Indian envoy to Kuwait was summoned and handed over an official protest note by the Assistant Secretary of State for Asia Affairs expressing the countrys "categorical rejection and condemnation" of the remarks made by a BJP official against the Prophet. The Kuwait ministry also welcomed the BJPs statement announcing the suspension of its leaders over their controversial remarks.

Earlier, Qatar summoned the Indian Ambassador and conveyed that the Gulf country is expecting a public apology and immediate denouncement of these remarks from the Indian government.

To quell the tensions, a spokesperson of the Indian Embassy in Qatar said that the "Ambassador conveyed that the tweets do not, in any manner, reflect the views of the Government of India. These are the views of fringe elements."

"Strong action has already been taken against those who made the derogatory remarks, the spokesperson of the Indian Embassy said in Doha.

BJP leaders suspended over objectionable remarks on Prophet Mohammed

Amid huge outcry from the Gulf countries, BJP on Sunday suspended its national spokesperson Nupur Sharma and its Delhi media head Naveen Kumar Jindal over their controversial remarks against the Prophet.

Following her suspension, Nupur Sharma unconditionally withdrew her controversial statement made in a TV debate a few days back. She also claimed that her comments were a reaction to "continuous insult and disrespect towards our Mahadev". Taking to Twitter, Sharma wrote, "I have been attending TV debates for the past many days where our Mahadev was being insulted and disrespected continuously. It was mockingly being said that it is not Shivling but a fountain. The Shivling was also being ridiculed by comparing it to roadside signs and poles in Delhi." She was supposedly referring to the Hindu group's claim of Shivling at the Gyanvapi mosque in Varanasi.

Naveen Kumar Jindal was expelled for his controversial tweet on the Prophet on June 1. Delhi unit president Adesh Gupta in his letter to Jindal said his opinion was contradictory to the BJPs original ideology. "You have worked against the party's ideology and policies," the letter by Gupta read. Jindal said he did not aim to hurt the religious sentiments of any community and he "respects the faith of all religions".

BJPs move to defuse tension

Before the suspension of its leaders, the BJP also issued a statement today saying it respects all religions and strongly denounces insult of any religious personalities.

BJP general secretary Arun Singh said in a statement that the party is strongly against any ideology which insults or demeans any sect or religion. The BJP does not promote such people or philosophy, he said. However, no direct mention of any incident or comment was made in the statement.

The statement came amid protests by Muslim groups over the remarks and outrage on Twitter in the Arab world calling for a boycott of Indian products.

(With agency inputs)
New Delhi: Seeking to defuse a row over controversial comments allegedly made by its spokesperson against Prophet Mohammed, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday asserted that it respects all religions and strongly denounces insult of any religious personality. Amid a row over remarks of BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma, party general secretary Arun Singh said in a statement that the party is strongly against any ideology which insults or demeans any sect or religion.

The BJP does not promote such people or philosophy, he said.

The BJP statement, however, made no direct mention of any incident or comment.

Singh said, "During the thousands of years of history of India every religion has blossomed and flourished. The Bharatiya Janata Party respects all religions. The BJP strongly denounces insult of any religious personalities of any religion."

India's Constitution gives a right to every citizen to practice any religion of his or her choice and to honour and respect every religion, he said.

"As India celebrates the 75th year of its Independence, we are committed to making India a great country where all are equal and everyone lives with dignity, where all are committed to India's unity and integrity, where all enjoy the fruits of growth and development," the BJP leader said.

Nupur Sharma's remarks have drawn protests from Muslim groups.
Guwahati: Assam police officer Junmoni Rabha, who shot to fame for getting her fiance arrested on fraud charges last month, was nabbed on Saturday for alleged corruption in league with her former beau. Rabha, currently serving as a sub-inspector (SI) at Kaliabor police station in Nagaon district, was arrested after being questioned for two consecutive days. She was remanded to 14 days' judicial custody by a court in Majuli district, police sources said.

Two contractors had complained to the police that they had entered into financial deals with her former boyfriend, Rana Pogag, after Rabha introduced him to them when she was posted in Majuli. They alleged that they were duped.

Rabha had filed an FIR against Pogag alleging that he duped some people by promising them jobs and contracts in the ONGC. He was subsequently arrested on charges of cheating and is currently lodged in Majuli jail.

Later, several allegations were made against Rabha, who was earlier referred to as 'Lady Singham' or 'Dabang cop' after Bollywood movies on super cops, that she was in league with Pogag who collected money on her behalf. An inquiry was ordered into the charges, the sources said.

The SI, who was taken to Majuli District Jail in Garmur, had been engaged to Pogag in October last year and they were scheduled to get married in November 2022.

Rabha was embroiled in a controversy in January this year when her telephonic conversation with Bihpuria MLA Amiya Kumar Bhuyan was leaked. They were engaged in an altercation over alleged harassment of the people of his constituency by her.

As the leaked audio tape had led to a furore, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that an elected representative must be given due respect.
New Delhi: A man, hailing from Bihar, died while his family was wounded after the car they were travelling in hit a pick-up van in east Delhi's Pandav Nagar area, the police said on Sunday (June 5). The incident took place on the intervening night of Saturday and Sunday on NH-9 near Samaspur Bus Stand in east Delhi. As per PTI, 42-year-old Manish Kumar Gupta, a resident of Bihars Munger, was declared brought dead at the hospital, while his wife Manisha (34), eight-year-old son, father-in-law Upendra Prasad Gupta (67) and sister-in-law Richa (32) were severely injured in the accident.

The Delhi police said the victims were in Delhi for the treatment of Manish Kumar Gupta's father-in-law. The family was returning to Delhi from Haridwar in a hired car when the collision with the pick-up van took place.

Further, the police informed that the driver of the car, who is not related to the victims, was allegedly overspeeding and driving recklessly, causing the accident. The driver was identified as Manish Kumar Thakur, who hails from Samastipur in Bihar and currently dwells in Delhis Uttam Nagar, Deputy Commissioner of Police (East) Priyanka Kashyap said.

Thakur, who owns the car involved in the accident, has been arrested and a case registered in the matter, she added.

"During further inquiry, it was alleged by the occupants of the car that the driver was overspeeding and riding the car in a rash manner. He did not pay heed to their request which resulted in the accident," the DCP said.

(With PTI inputs)

ALSO READ: At least 7 charred to death after Hyderabad-bound bus collides with goods vehicle in Karnataka
Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party leader Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday lashed out at the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and said that the party cannot handle the issue of Kashmir as hundreds of Kashmiri Pandits are still being compelled to leave their homes due to fear, reported ANI. Addressing the Aam Aadmi Partys Jan Aakrosh Rally at Jantar Mantar in Delhi, Kejriwal said, "Kashmir was ours, belongs to us and will remain ours. Kashmiri Pandits were being forced to leave their homes, a repeat of what happened in the 1990s." Delhi CMs remarks come after several Hindus, mostly migrants in Kashmir were killed in targeted attacks this month.

Targeting Amit Shah for holding meetings but not taking substantial steps on the targeted killings in Kashmir, Kejriwal said, "Whenever there is a murder in Kashmir, it comes in the media: Home Minister called a meeting. Too many meetings are being held while people are dying. Now, India needs action. People want action to be taken by the government. Tell the plan to the country," he said.

The AAP National Convenor said, "The truth is that BJP can`t handle Kashmir. When they (Kashmiri Pandits) protest against the targeted killings, the present BJP government in Kashmir does not allow them to protest. If the government behaves like this, the suffering of the people becomes double."

"BJP government has failed in this. The era of 1990 has come again. They (the Centre) don`t have any plans. Whenever there is a murder in the valley, news comes that the Home Minister has called a high-level meeting. Enough of these meetings! Now, we need action. Kashmir wants action!," he said.

After a rise in attacks on minorities in Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha earlier this week ordered the officials to post selected government employees and other members from minority communities in Kashmir at secure locations by June 6.

.Last month, two civilians - including Kashmiri Pandit employee Rahul Bhat -- and three off-duty policemen were killed in Kashmir by terrorists.

Amit Shah held emergency meeting

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday held a meeting with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and other top officials on security in Jammu and Kashmir. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police Dilbagh Singh also participated in the meeting.

(With ANI inputs)
Uttarakhand: A bus carrying 28 pilgrims fell down into the gorge on Sunday. According to the Uttarkashi administration, at least 25 pilgrims from Madhya Pradesh died and three were critically injured on Sunday evening when the bus they were travelling in fell into a deep gorge en route to the Yamunotri temple in the Uttarkashi district.

Meanwhile, CM Pushkar Singh Dhami has reached the Disaster Control Room in Dehradun and directed the district administration to carry out relief and rescue work expeditiously along with proper treatment of the injured, CMO Uttarakhand said in a statement.

Uttarkashi bus accident | A very tragic incident took place today, involving the accident of a bus of pilgrims from Panna, Madhya Pradesh; 25 people have died. We are putting all relief efforts. Both DM & SP sent to spot, HM has sent NDRF team: Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami pic.twitter.com/q9DGz4yFBU  ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) June 5, 2022

"Officials concerned have been instructed to investigate the accident. May God grant the departed souls a place at his feet and strength to their family members to bear the pain. Also, I pray for the speedy recovery of all those injured," Dhami said in a tweet in Hindi.

PM Modi announced financial aid

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the ex-gratia amounts of Rs 2 lakh each for the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 each for the injured in a bus accident in Uttarakhand.

"The Prime Minister has announced an ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh each from PMNRF for the next of kin of those who lost their lives in the accident in Uttarakhand. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000 each," tweeted PMO.

Meanwhile, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Chouhan has also expressed anguish and paid condolences to those who lost their lives in the accident. Chouhan announced Rs 5 lakh each will be given to the next of the kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 to the injured persons. "Medical treatment of the injured is our priority, he added.

Madhya Pradesh | Bus accident of pilgrims from Panna on Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand is unfortunate. I've spoken with CM PS Dhami...A team from Delhi has been rushed to Uttarakhand for relief & rescue operation. I'm myself going to Dehradun tonight...: CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan pic.twitter.com/19lxecySTE  ANI MP/CG/Rajasthan (@ANI_MP_CG_RJ) June 5, 2022

Expressing condolence over the death of pilgrims from Madhya Pradesh in the bus accident, Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said he along with state minister Bijendra Pratap Singh, DGP Sudhir Saxena, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Rajesh Rajora and the entire team are leaving for Dehradun immediately in the night.

The MP Home Department has issued a list of 28 passengers from the Panna district who were travelling in the ill-fated bus.

"The death of pilgrims, from Panna district, after their bus fell into a gorge in Uttarakhand, is unfortunate. Our team is in constant touch with the Uttarakhand government. Arrangements being done for the treatment of injured & to bring back the dead bodies," Chouhan tweeted.
A 61-year-old woman is in custody in connection to the death of an 8-year-old relative, according to the Denver Police Department.
Raipur: Over 12,000 contractual MGNREGA employees, who were on strike for the last two months for regularization of service, on Saturday resigned en masse. The move came after services of 21 assistant project officers (APOs) of MGNREGA were terminated by the state government on Friday. The employees of Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act scheme are protesting since April for various demands, including regularization of service and better pay, said Tikamchand Kaushik, vice president of Chhattisgarh MGNREGA Karamchari Mahasangh.

"On Friday evening, the state government suddenly terminated the service of 21 APOs. In protest against the decision and support of our demand, all 12,371 employees, including 9000 rojgar sahayak (employment assistant) tendered mass resignation," he said.

"The ruling Congress, in its 2018 poll manifesto, had promised to regularise services of contractual workers but no steps have been taken in this direction so far. We just want job security as we have given a better part of our life to this service," said Kaushik, who works as technical assistant under scheme.

Amid the protest, the state government had last month announced that the honorarium of employment assistants working under MGNREGA would be hiked to Rs 9,540 from Rs 5,000.

A decision on the demands related to service conditions of MGNREGA employees will be taken after getting the report of a committee set up by the government in this regard, an official release had informed.

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New Delhi: The Tamil Nadu government on Sunday (June 5) said 12 more samples have tested positive for Omicron variants BA.4 and BA.5. Tamil Nadu Medical and Family Welfare minister Ma Subramanian said out of the 150 samples collected from the state, 12 have tested positive for the Omicron variants BA.4 and BA.5 of the coronavirus. "We have sent about 150 samples collected from people to the laboratory in Hyderabad and results have reached us directly from the lab. Four people have been diagnosed with BA.4 variant while eight have tested positive for BA.5 variant. So, two new variants of COVID-19 are reported in Tamil Nadu", he was quoted as saying by PTI. Subramanian said the patients, who hail from Chennai and neighbouring districts, have been isolated and are doing fine.

Further, the minister informed that the health officials are monitoring the secondary contacts who came in contact with the primary contacts of the patients.

The state health minister also said that the one case of the BA.4 variant earlier detected in May in Chennais Navalur has fully recovered.

Tamil Nadu Health department Principal Secretary J Radhakrishnan contacted all 12 people who tested positive for the Omicron subvariants, Subramanian said. "The Central government will officially announce the detection of these new variants," he added.

Earlier, Radhakrishnan told the district collectors that the spurt in coronavirus cases in family clusters was an indicator of the waning immunity. In his letter, he also asked the district collectors to take measures to stem the transmission and ensure that people wear masks, maintain physical distancing and follow sanitation like washing hands regularly, IANS reported.

The caution comes as Covid-19 cases are increasing in Tamil Nadu. On Sunday, the state reported 107 new coronavirus infections. The death toll remained unchanged at 38,025 with no new fatalities. The active cases in the state stand at 836 active cases, a medical bulletin said.

Meanwhile, in order to improve the vaccination rate, the Health department plans to conduct a mega inoculation drive on June 12 by organising over one lakh vaccination camps across the state.

(With agency inputs)
New Delhi: Naveen Kumar Jindal, who was on Sunday expelled from the party, said his remarks were not aimed at hurting the religious sentiments of any community. Delhi unit president Adesh Gupta expelled Jindal, who was Delhi BJP media cell head, for allegedly expressing views on social media that vitiate communal harmony.

Kumar had come under attack on social media over his tweet referring to the Prophet Mohammad on June 1.

He told PTI that he was unaware of being expelled from the BJP and was yet to receive any letter from the state president.

Jindal said he had tweeted asking a question to those attacking and insulting Hindu deities and it was not aimed at hurting the religious sentiments of any community.

Gupta in his letter said Jindal's opinion was contradictory to the party's original ideology.

"You have worked against the party's ideology and policies," said the letter.

Gupta said Jindal's primary membership of the BJP was terminated with immediate effect and he was expelled from the party.

ALSO READ: BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma suspended over controversial remarks on Prophet Mohammad
New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, on June 5 at Aam Aadmi Party's 'Jan Aakrosh Rally' at Jantar Mantar in Delhi, attacked Centre for not taking effective action against the targeted killings of Kashmiri Pandits in Kashmir. Addressing the audience at the rally, Kejriwal said that the Centre is too busy planning high-level meetings. He urged them to stop their charade of conduncting meetings and take effective action to stop the killings of Kashmiri Pandits who are now leaving the Valley for safety.

He also took a shot at Pakistan and told the country to stop its petty tactics. He said, "I want to tell Pakistan to stop petty tactics. Kashmir will always be part of India."

"The BJP can't handle Kashmir, they only know how to do dirty politics. Please don't do politics over Kashmir," Kejriwal further said attacking the ruling party BJP.

In the past month, the Kashmir Valley has seen several targeted killings by hybrid terrorists and Lashkar-e-Taiba including local civilians.

In fear of their lives, Kashmiri Pandits who were employed under a prime minister's package in 2012, have been staging protests threatening mass exodus since the killing of Rahul Bhat, who was shot dead by terrorists on May 12 in the Chadoora area of Budgam district in central Kashmir.

Two persons -- a bank employee and a brick kiln labourer -- were killed in Kashmir on June 2 while another labourer was injured in two separate incidents.

A woman teacher from the Samba district of the Jammu region was shot dead by terrorists at a school in south Kashmir's Kulgam district on May 31.On May 18, terrorists had entered a wine shop at Baramulla in North Kashmir and threw a grenade, killing one person from the Jammu region and injuring three others.

Policeman Saifullah Qadri was shot dead outside his residence in Srinagar on May 24 while TV artiste Amreen Bhat was gunned down in Budgam two days later.

(With agency inputs)
New Delhi: Amid the investigation in the Hyderabad gang-rape case, BJP leader Amit Malviya took a jibe at Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) leaders on Twitter. The BJP leader accused the TRS leaders of keeping the gang-rape accused persons' names under wraps. He wrote on Twitter, "In 2019, four men accused of raping a woman doctor in Hyderabad, were shot dead by the Telengana police. It was extra judicial killing. Now when a minor is raped by boys from influential political families of the ruling coalition, all we hear is homilies from TRS leaders. Why?"

ALSO READ: Hyderabad gang-rape shocker: Third accused arrested, Telangana BJP chief demands CBI probe

Speaking on the same, he further tweeted, "Law protects identity of a rape victim. But in the case of minor girls rape in Hyderabad, names of the rapists are being guarded zealously. Afterall what is the compulsion? TRS leaders who were chest thumping after the extra judicial killing of rapists in 2019 are whimpering."

In 2019, four men accused of raping a woman doctor in Hyderabad, were shot dead by the Telengana police. It was extra judicial killing. Now when a minor is raped by boys from influential political families of the ruling coalition, all we hear is homilies from TRS leaders. Why?  Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) June 4, 2022

Law protects identity of a rape victim. But in the case of minor girls rape in Hyderabad, names of the rapists are being guarded zealously. Afterall what is the compulsion? TRS leaders who were chest thumping after the extra judicial killing of rapists in 2019 are whimpering  Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) June 4, 2022

Meanwhile, Telangana Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Bandi Sanjay on Saturday wrote to Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao demanding to hand over the Hyderabad gang-rape case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and arrest all the accused involved.

ALSO READ: AIMIM MLA's son involved in Hyderabad gang-rape case or not? 5 BIG DEVELOPMENTS

Earlier, Jana Sena Party leaders and workers staged a protest at Jubliee Hills Police Station demanding justice for the victim of the Hyderabad rape case. They were later detained.

17-year-old girl allegedly raped in car

The security footage which is viral on social media purportedly showed the girl standing with the suspected attackers outside the pub where she had met them. The boys had offered to drop her home. Instead, she was assaulted inside a parked car in the city. Her attackers took turns to rape her while the others stood guard outside the car. The 17-year-old girl was allegedly gang-raped when she was returning home after a party in Jubilee Hills area of Hyderabad on May 28.

The matter came to light after the minor girl's father submitted a complaint to the police regarding the incident. On the complaint of girl's father, a police case has been registered against five persons.

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New Delhi: Another minor was arrested on Sunday (June 5) in connection with the gang-rape of a teenage girl at Jubilee Hills in Hyderabad. Earlier, the Hyderabad police had arrested three more accused in the gang-rape of the 17-year-old girl. "In continuation of arrest of three accused earlier one CCLs (Child in Conflict with Law) is apprehended by Jubilee Hills police today i.e., on 05-06-2022 and his apprehension was effected in the above case and he is being produced before the Hon'ble Juvenile Court for their safe custody, Deputy Commissioner of Police (West Zone) Joel Davis said, as per PTI.

Out of the five accused that have been identified by the survivor, one adult and three juveniles have been nabbed so far. The DCP said efforts are on to apprehend the remaining accused. The police have arrested 18-year-old Saduddin Malik and three minors in the gang-rape case. The second major accused Umair Khan (18) is still at large, IANS reported.

As per the Hyderabad police, the horrific crime took place on May 28 when the teenage girl was returning from a pub. She was gang-raped by five persons, including three juveniles in a Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV), the police had disclosed on June 3. One of the teenage boys accused is alleged to be a son of a prominent leader.

Earlier, DCP Davis had clarified that the name of an AIMIM MLA's son as alleged by the Telangana BJP has not figured in the survivors statement as of now. "The investigation will continue and if the victim gives any further details as and when she is in a position to do so, we will investigate accordingly. We will not spare anyone however high and mighty they are,'' the DCP said on June 3.

Meanwhile, Telangana Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan on Sunday asked for a detailed report within two days from the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police regarding the case.

"Deeply anguished over this heinous incident, the Hon'ble Governor has ordered for the submission of a detailed report within two days on the issue from the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police," a press communication from Soundararajan's press secretary read.

(With agency inputs)
In a major setback to Hizbul Mujahiddin terror outfit in Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir, police along with 17 RR manage to arrest Talib Hussain Gujjar, son of Noor Mohammad, Resident of Rashgwari Padyarna in Nagsini Tehsil of Kishtwar. Talib was trying to leave the jurisdiction of Kishtwar with a changed identity. As per reports, the Pakistan-backed terror outfit has started regrouping and strengthening its cadre by making fresh recruitment in this mountainous district that has witnessed mass destruction with the onset of militancy in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir three decades ago, and arrest of Talib Gujjar is certainly a setback for them, a police officer said.

Talib Gujjar disappeared mysteriously in the month of July 2016 while his family members lodged his missing complaint before Kishtwar police at Police Post Padyarana on 21-3-2017 vide DD No. 4 and was finally declared as active Militant with Hizbul Mujahideen on 20-6-2018 after account of various witnesses, it was found that Talib Gujjar has joined the Hizbul Mujahiddin outfit and was seen roaming with weapons in upper reaches of Marwah and Dachhan areas of Kishtwar District along with few other militants active in the area.

After declaring Talib Hussain as an active terrorist, the security agencies kept an eye on him and today arrested him after more than 5 years chase.

Kishtwar, which was the only District in Jammu province where HM militant outfit has the active footprints, is being led by Hizb dreaded commander Mohammad Amin Butt alias Jahingeer Saroori while his associate Raiz Ahmed from Marwah and Muddassir Ahmed from Dachhan remain part of the group and carried bounty of more than Rs.50 lakhs.

Talib Gujjar, according to the sources, belongs to a local Gujjar tribe who is familiar with the local hilly routes in Nagsini, Marwah, Dachhan and adjoining Padder area of Kishtwar District and helps the terrorists in their safe movement from one place to another place in the area.

The sources said that agencies are looking for the OGW network in the district and are searching for the person who is motivating and luring the youths towards militancy, the practice commonly seen in valley.

Saroori and his two associates Raiz and Muddassir to which Talib Gujjar was also a part, their name has surfaced in the killing of BJP leader Anil Parihar and his brother Ajeet Parihar along with the killing of RSS leader Chanderkant Sharma.

The arrest of Talib Gujjar by Kishtwar police and army is being seen as a big success which can help them to come close to most wanted Hizb terrorist Jahingeer Saroori who is active in the area since last over three decades.

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Bareilly: The Bareilly administration has imposed a curfew under Section 144 in the aftermath of the Kanpur violence and as a precautionary measure ahead of a huge protest to be held on June 10 as announced by Muslim cleric Tauqir Raza. As per the administration, not more than five persons would be allowed to assemble in a public place. Protests would also be prohibited during this period.

The curfew has been imposed till July 3 to avoid any untoward situation like the one that erupted in Kanpur on Friday. A violent clash broke out between two groups belonging to different communities allegedly over a market shutdown in Kanpur on Friday.

ALSO READ: Kanpur clash: Illegal properties of violence accused will be demolished, says UP police

The security in the area was also beefed up between Yateem Khana and Parade crossroads in Kanpur. Two persons and one policeman were injured in the aftermath of the clashes. The violence started after some people tried to shut down shops that were opposed by the other group, said the police. Meanwhile, the state police on Saturday said the main accused in the Kanpur violence case, Hayat Jaffar Hashmi has been arrested along with three other masterminds.

Four men involved in the conspiracy were identified, tracked, and arrested. "We will investigate if they had any links with PFI. Action will be taken under Gangster Act, and NSA and their properties will be seized," added the Kanpur CP.The four people arrested have been identified as Hayat Jaffar Hashmi, Javed Ahmed Khan, Mohammad Rahil & Mohammad Suffian.

"All of them are associated with Maulana Ali Jauhar Fans Association. We'll further ask the court to send them on a 14-days remand," said Meena.

Uttar Pradesh police confirmed that 24 people have been arrested so far in connection with the violence that broke out yesterday in Kanpur."Some people tried to ignite communal tension in Kanpur yesterday.

Police took the action and the situation was brought under control. 18 were arrested yesterday while another six were arrested today. Three FIRs were filed. Total 36 people identified so far," said Kanpur CP Vijay Singh Meena.

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Kanpur clashes: In the Kanpur communal violence case, the police suspect the involvement of the Popular Front of India (PFI), which is an extremist Muslim organisation, reported IANS. According to Kanpur police, the PFI had called for a bandh in Manipur and West Bengal on the same day as it did in Kanpur, following which violence broke out between the two groups. A connection is being investigated, said the police. "Documents related to the Popular Front of India (PFI) have been found during the searches. Documents related to the Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) and Campus Front of India (CFI) were also found during searches at the premises of Zafar Hayat Hashmi, the main accused in the case, Kanpur Police Commissioner, V.S. Meena, said in a statement on Sunday.

The commissioner further said, "All arrests till now are based on photographic and video evidence from the scene of the riots. If there is any laxity on the part of the police officers, action will be taken accordingly."

Kanpur violence: 29 accused arrested

The Kanpur Police have so far arrested a total of 29 people involved in the violence that erupted in the city`s Parade Chowk area on Friday, June 3.

The local Muslim leader, Hayat Zafar Hashmi, was identified by the police as the main conspirator behind the violence.

Police said Hayat Zafar Hashmi, who is also the national president of the Maulana Muhammad Jauhar Ali Fans Association, called for the market shutdown to protest the remarks made by BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma during a TV news debate.

Hashmi allegedly incited people, which led to stone-pelting and clashes between two groups. Over 39 people, including multiple police personnel, were injured due to this. He has been detained and is being interrogated.

Three FIRs have been filed against over 1,000 unknown persons for rioting and violence. The other accused named in the FIR are Ehitsham Kabadi, Zeeshan, Aaqib, Nizam, Azizur, Aamir Javed, Imran Kale, and Yusuf Mansuri, among others.

The accused will be booked under the Gangster Act and their property will be confiscated.

The police said that six mobiles recovered from the accused are being scanned. The social media accounts of the accused are also being searched.

Meanwhile, the markets in the area opened on Sunday and police patrolling is continuing.
New Delhi: Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on Sunday (June 5) launched an attack on Centre and said the government is busy promoting films while Kashmir burns. "Kashmir is burning again, the situation there is out of control and important people of Delhi (central govt) are busy promoting films," Raut told ANI. He further said, "No one is willing to listen to the Kashmiris. The Kashmiri Pandits are forced to agitate, what is the govt doing?" Shiv Sena leader's scathing comments came after Union Home Minister Amit Shah attended the special screening of the Bollywood film 'Samrat Prithviraj.'

Kashmir is burning again, the situation there is out of control & important people of Delhi (central govt) are busy promoting films. No one is willing to listen to the Kashmiris. The Kashmiri Pandits are forced to agitate, what is the govt doing?: Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut pic.twitter.com/JNtltX2kve  ANI (@ANI) June 5, 2022

Sanjay Raut also informed that he will be visiting Ayodhya along with Maharashtra Minister Eknath Shinde on Sunday (June 5). "I am going to Ayodhya today along with Maharashtra Minister Eknath Shinde and others. Aaditya Thackeray will be visiting Ayodhya on June 15th. We do not have any political agenda for this visit," Raut told ANI.

A bank manager, identified as Vijay Kumar, was shot dead by terrorists in the Kulgam district of Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday. Earlier this week 36-year-old Hindu woman teacher Rajni Bala, hailing from Jammu`s Samba district, was shot dead by terrorists at a government school in Gopalpora, Kulgam.

Last month, two civilians - including Kashmiri Pandit employee Rahul Bhat -- and three off-duty policemen were killed in Kashmir by terrorists.Union Home Minister Amit Shah also held a meeting on Friday with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and other top officials on security in Jammu and Kashmir.

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Denver residents should be in for a spell of nice weather throughout this week, with temperatures expected to hit 90 by Thursday.
The Trinamool has accused the state BJP president Sukanta Majumdar of supporting terrorism. State BJP president Sukanta Majumdar said, "We will have to capture the panchayat with sticks. The tribals, the Rajbanshis, the Matuas, the women need to keep the broom-axe ready. If TMC goons come to loot the votes, you will have to throw them out of the neighbourhood." In reply Trinamool's State General Secretary Kunal Ghosh said, "By saying this, he is supporting terrorism. Won't the CBI see to it?"

The panchayat polls in the state is scheduled for next year. This time the state BJP president called for uprooting the Trinamool in the panchayat elections. In Malda, Sukanta said, "Democracy has to be established. Public welfare money sent by the Centre is being looted in the name of development. TMC has to be driven out of Bengal." The BJP held a rally in old Malda on Saturday to mark the 8th anniversary of the Modi government. The state BJP president was accompanied by the state's leader of the opposition, Suvendu Adhikari. He has launched a counter attack alleging post-assembly poll terrorism in the state.

The leader of the opposition in the state, Suvendu Adhikari, said, "The Atrocities of TMC have also surpassed the British Era." The Congress also criticised the Mamata Banerjee's government. State Congress president Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said, "The country fought for independence during the British period. It was Bengal that led the fight. And now the situation in Bengal is the worst. Everyone laughs when they see Bangla."
Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala government on Sunday said norovirus infection, similar to the diarrhoea-inducing rotavirus, was confirmed in two children residing near here. The Health Department evaluated the situation and said precautionary measures have been taken as the virus spreads through contaminated water and food.

State Health Minister Veena George said the disease is highly-contagious and urged the people to maintain hygiene.

"Norovirus infection has been detected in two children and their health condition is stable. There is no need to be concerned at the moment but everyone should remain careful and maintain cleanliness," Minister said.

The infection was detected after samples of students who complained of food poisoning were tested at a government lab.

Officials suspect the food poisoning took place after the students took mid-day meals at school.

The Minister said the norovirus can be cured and prevented from spreading.

Norovirus can be transmitted through contaminated food, water, and surfaces through cases of vomiting and/or diarrhoea, headaches and body aches, the Health Department said. In extreme cases, loss of fluids occur and that could lead to dehydration, it said while urging the people to follow precautions such as repeatedly washing hands with soap after using the lavatory.
Aurangabad: NCP leader Dhananjay Munde suggested that the next chief minister of Maharashtra will be from the Sharad Pawar-led party. Speaking at a public meeting in Satara city on Saturday, Munde said the Social Justice department in the incumbent Shiv Sena-led MVA government became prestigious because of his efforts. "If a question arises tomorrow regarding whom to hand over the social justice portfolio......Whoever would be the next chief minister....And the CM will be ours (NCP's) only. The CM will say that let the social justice portfolio remain with us (NCP). This department has earned so much reputation," Munde said.

The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) is the key constituent in the Uddhav Thackeray-led dispensation, which completed two-and-a-half years in power only last month.

Munde said he had worked efficiently as the Leader of Opposition in the Maharashtra Legislative Council in the past.

The NCP holds the important portfolios of Finance, led by Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, and Home in the state government.

"Earlier, NCP chief Sharad Pawar had appointed me as the opposition leader (in the Maharashtra Legislative Council). No matter how stable and powerful, I had shaken the then government," he added.

ALSO READ: Covid-19 surge: Masks mandatory in Maharashtra? State Health Minister clarifies
An engineer was arrested for allegedly threatening to blow up a school bus in the United States of America, police said on Sunday. "An engineer youth living in Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh threatened to blow up a school in America. The crime branch of Bhopal had sent an alert to the Khandwa police two days ago. The police have arrested an engineer youth. The accused had sent threatening messages to an international group on a social media platform," said Chief Superintendent of police, Poonamchand Yadav. The accused is a resident of Mahadevi Nagar, Khandwa.

Police and security agencies from Delhi to Khandwa came into alert mode after the matter was reported. Further investigation into the matter is underway.

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New Delhi: A new cabinet sworn in on Sunday in Odisha, after all the ministers in the Naveen Patnaik-led BJD-ministry resigned a day before to allow the chief minister to reshuffle his ministry. BJD MLAs Jagannath Saraka, Niranjan Pujari and R P Swain were among the 13 MLAs who were administered oath of office and secrecy by Governor Ganeshi Lal at the ceremony, being held in the new convention centre of Lok Seva Bhawan in Bhubaneswar. Three women legislators -- Pramila Mallick, Usha Devi and Tukuni Sahu have been inducted into the cabinet.

Patnaik who recently completed 23 years in office apparently wants to give a new look to his ministry before the 2024 elections to the Lok Sabha and Assembly, analysts said. This was the first time in the political history of Odisha that all ministers were directed to quit.

As many as 13 minister-designates have sworn in as cabinet minister while eight others took oath as minister of state (MoS). There were 20 members in the last council of ministers of Naveen.

The newly-inducted cabinet ministers are -- Jagannath Saraka, Niranjan Pujari, Ranendra Pratap Swain, Pramila Mallik, Usha Devi, Prafulla Kumar Mallik, Pratap Keshari Deb, Atanu Sabyasachi Nayak, Pradip Kumar Amat, Naba Kishore Das, Ashok Chandra Panda, Tukuni Sahu and Rajendra Dholakia.

Similarly, Samir Ranjan Dash, Aswini Kumar Patra, Pritiranjan Gharai, Srikanta Sahu, Tusharkanti Behera, Rohit Pujari, Rita Sahu and Basanti Hembram have sworn in as MoS.

However, Patnaik has not distributed the portfolios to the new ministers so far. The distribution is likely to be made by evening, officials said.

Seven BJD legislators -- Rajendra Dholakia, Aswini Kumar Patra, Rohit Pujari, Srikanta Sahu, Pritiranjan Gharai, Basanti Hembram and Rita Sahu -- have been inducted as ministers for the first time in their political history. Similarly, Jagannath Saraka and Ashok Panda got promoted to cabinet rank from MoS.

Patnaik has increased the representation from western Odisha in his council to seven as the ruling BJD is facing challenge from BJP in the region. Of the 20-member council of ministers, nine leaders were again re-inducted in the new cabinet.

Patnaik has dropped 11 ministers from the new council. The legislators who were dropped from the cabinet are-- Bikram Keshari Arukha, Padmanabha Behera, Pratap Jena, Aruna Kumar Sahoo, Sudam Marndi, Susanta Singh, Dibya Shankar Mishra, Jyoti Prakash Panigrahi, Premananda Nayak, Raghunandan Das and Padmini Dian.



(With agency inputs)

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New Delhi: In a shocking revelation a witness in journalist Rajdeo Ranjan's murder case who was declared dead by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) appeared before the Muzaffarpur court in Bihar. After the incident, the court issued a show-cause to the central investigation agency for submitting a false death report, petitioners' counsel Sharad Sinha told ANI. The additional sessions judge-cum-special judge of the court, Punit Kumar Garg served the notice to CBI and directed it to submit its reply before June 20, which is the next date of hearing.

Badami Devi, the prime witness in the murder of journalist Rajdeo Ranjan, claimed that the CBI had filed her death report in court on May 24. When I learnt that the CBI had filed my death report in the court, I went into shock. It was disheartening and painful for me. Then, I appeared before the court with a voter identity card, Pan card and Aadhaar card, she said.

Earlier, CBI had sought summons for the examination of witness Badami Devi, which the court had issued. However, on May 24 the central probe agency declared her dead and also submitted her death verification report before the court.

Badami Devi appeared before the court on Friday with her documents and affidavit. I have been staying at my Kasera Toli residence in Siwan. I was made a witness in the case but no CBI official met me. However, the CBI declared me dead, which I came to know through newspapers. It is a conspiracy, she said in her affidavit.

The act of the premier institution of investigation appears to be suspicious. Now there is no hesitation to say that CBI has done this kind of work in connivance with another witness. It is submitted that CBI is playing a big game to implicate falsely the accused persons, especially Vijay Kumar and Azharuddin Beig, the petitioners counsel Sharad Sinha told the court.

Rajdeo Ranjan, the Siwan bureau chief of Hindi newspaper Hindustan, which is part of HT Media, was shot dead at a busy market near Station Road on May 14, 2016. The CBI took over the probe of the murder of the Bihar journalist in September 2016.

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New Delhi: In a sudden spate of targeted killings by terrorists, nine civilians, including a bank official, migrant labourers, police officials, teachers, and sarpanches, have been killed in the past one month in the Kashmir Valley. Terrorists, with the aim of changing the demography of the valley, are aiming for another mass exodus of Hindus from the valley after the 1990s. A huge number of Kashmiri Pandits resettled in the valley and given government jobs are on the verge of leaving the valley for Jammu. Terrorisms sole aim is to terrorise society into submission. Terrorists using country-made pistols are clearly frustrated and changed their strategy to target innocent men and women from Hindu and Sikh communities.

In the state of Jammu and Kashmir, India is battling a multi-pronged hybrid war against terror. Thirty years of bloodshed and still a clear path towards peace and stability in the region is far from sight. As we have seen in the recent decades that most of the modern battles have been hybrid in nature, so is the Proxy War of Kashmir. It shows the multidimensional nature of modern military missions. Syria, Afghanistan and Iraq are class examples of the western worlds hybrid war or three blocks war concept being put into action in the war against terror.

The Indian Armys much-praised initiative Operation Sadbhavna combined with Operation All Out and simultaneous Disaster Relief Operations is one such successful implementation of the Three block war wherein, the Armed forces are fighting in Block- one, while simultaneously helping secure, stabilize and nation build in Block- two, and all the while, you are also helping people through disaster relief, humanitarian help and peacekeeping in Block- three to win hearts and minds of common Kashmiri people and to create an atmosphere of harmony amongst all, ever since the year 1998.

We can say it without twitching an eyelid that the Indian Armys Operation Sadbhavna is the best humanitarian aid for the terror-stricken people of the valley. The olive branch extended by Operation Sadbhavana rates amongst the best humanitarian aid and nation building operations ran by any military in the world but, is not found sufficient. The humbling efforts by the uniformed men and women are winning hearts, but people are still being radicalised, stones are still being pelted and pro-Pakistan slogans are still being shouted.

The Reasons

There are other blocks too in the battle zone, like fighting the Jihad, the separatism, the religious extremism, but we leave them un-defended. Thus, the continued losses in the last three decades. We have not put sufficient intellectual energy and resources, and work towards the other Blocks specifically and then all the Blocks together. Successful counter-insurgency must involve several dimensions, including all blocks.

The western concepts

While implementing western concepts in India, we forget that those powers have invaded those nations on the pretext of fighting ISIS and the Taliban. They are using brutal force and weapons of mass destruction, which include guns, missiles, tanks, and drones to eliminate the so-called bad terrorists. They are rank outsiders

for the regions yet indulging themselves in a bloodbath and creating havoc amongst the common people with the sole aim of keeping winning the first block.

The efforts in the other two blocks are for showing off and making a balancing act so that the heinous bloodshed and destruction can be justified with their namesake humanitarian aid work.

The Three Block War Concept

The three block war concept has many flows. As the battle gets fierce and bloody because of collateral damage, the soldiers become more and more unpopular. The guerrilla fighting with the terrorists has forced the soldiers into taking a heavily armed posture, many times against Kashmiri local boys who have become mujahidin under the influence of Pakistan-sponsored proxies.

The Kashmiris dont seem to find the evil of their own people. Instead, the military fighting the Jihadist forces as a part of their duty to keep the society free from evil forces is finding itself in the line of abhorrence of the local people. We must open our eyes towards a fact that we are losing it socially in Kashmir. The olive green

has become a symbol of hatred for a vast majority of people from five terror infested districts of the valley.

The US and their coalition forces have bombed Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan to stone-age. No regime in India can ever afford to bomb its own lands - the godly valley of Kashmir and bring it to ruins. The Jungles of Pine and Deodar and oak, the apple orchards, the towns, the landscapes, the Himalayas, its inhabitants, and

the whole valley itself are as much Indian as we all are. Indias wish in the Kashmir conflict is nothing less than a thumping win in all the Nine blocks which will ensure the return of Jamhuriyat, Kashmiriyat and Insaniyat. A pyrrhic victory in Kashmir is not something the Indians wish for.

A Thankless Civilisation

There can be no winners in a civil war. The idea of India must be religiously, socially and politically assertive in Kashmir. When a government spends so much of money and efforts into rehabilitation and reform of a civilization and gets pelted with stones, the signs are worrying and warrant immediate course correction and

strict disciplinary actions against the people concerned. We have failed to take a single step for de-radicalization of unruly and thankless people from some parts of the valley. For an avid reader of Indias military history, one is disappointed with the lack of innovative thinking from the Indian think tank, while battling Kashmir

issue.

Securing the Rear

Matter of fact, is that the troops fighting on the front can only march ahead if their rear is secure. Stone pelting, terrorism, separatists, Cease-fire violations, infiltrations from across the border, BAT attacks and the unholy spread of Jihadist propaganda through mosques, processions and cyber Jihad clearly show that our backyard is not safe & secure. The barrage of attacks by bombs, bullets, stones and abuses from the rear makes the soldiers vulnerable.

A soldier never fears the enemy from outside but, it is the enemy within that makes ones knees

weak in a war. A hybrid war lurking in your own backyard can only be won, when all ends are secure. While deploying the Armed Forces to battle it out upon all the fronts of the Kashmir Chakravyuha, we are falling prey to con of the western way of war fighting on foreign lands. As the struggle of Kashmir is happening in our backyard, our biggest strength should be our own people, who actually are our major

weakness in the valley.

We should remember that Kashmir to India is not what Gaza is to Israel. The state of Jammu and Kashmir is and will remain an integral part of India.

Correction of Demographic imbalance

Kashmiri Pandit exodus in the 1990s changed the demography of the valley. The government of India must take immediate measures to correct the demographic imbalance. The current security scenario warrants placement of ex-soldiers in the valley. Once the Veterans have secured the Backyard, the government, along with the forces, can go back to the drawing board and chalk out a successful strategy for total integration of the people and their souls.

The misplaced Uniformed Soldiers

The uniformed soldier is unequipped, vulnerable and living in the Jurassic age as far as modern society is concerned. The serving officers and Jawans hardly get any idea about the deep functioning of the civil society from their fortified uniformed lives. A young man joining the services at the helm of his youth, even

before undergoing the grinds of our civil society and understanding its prevailing undercurrents, becomes a soldier. One got retired in the year 2012. It took me three years in the civil society to learn its normal ways. I think, up to some extent, every ex-serviceman will agree with me.

Why does the counter-radicalisation strategy necessitates deployment of Ex-servicemen?

A retired soldier with his 15 to 20 years service to the Nations in the Indian Armed Forces equipped with some years of post-retirement experience in our unforgiving civil society is our best bet for securing our backyard. (The other left out blocks).

Why only ex-servicemen? Other nationalistic groups too are in the foray.

During their tenures in uniform and off it, the Ex-servicemen have showed their true

Indian Colours. They have proven their mettle during every natural calamity, every

civil unrest, and every war that this nation has fought. If we take the risk of

deploying the rhetoric savvy nationalistic groups, too early into the valley. It will

not be a wise decision.

The Ex-servicemen are well versed with the policies and functioning of the Armed Forces, thus the question of blue to blue kill doesnt arise. Ex-servicemen, because they know when to stop being aggressive, because we do not want to create another monster to curb a monster in the exquisite valley of Kashmir. Earlier Successful Examples of the strategy of Placing of ex-servicemen to secure social and physical security I shall remind ourselves and the government, with some scintillating yet simple examples, how we have been securing our backyards:

The 1962 war with china and the subsequent 1965 war with Pakistan, made the Union government realise that there is an urgent need to address a strategic concern to secure and populate frontier areas with patriots. To put a stop to infiltration, aggression, espionage and other anti-national activities at borders. For this purpose, the government began running a scheme for rehabilitation of Ex-servicemen in the year 1969, under which 330-odd Ex-servicemen and their families were settled on the great Nicobar island of Campbell Bay.

The militarily sensitive and strategically important, Rann of Kutch which has seen aggressive Pakistani forays as a prelude to the war, is a barren region bordering Pakistan with a human population less than that of cattle, the then Gujarat government had devised a strategic policy and invited ex-servicemen from Punjab and Haryana, largely Sikhs, to settle down here in the aftermath of the 1965 war with Pakistan.

Despite of the severe hardships and natural disasters such as earthquakes and tsunami, it is the ex-servicemen who have provided the show of presence and intelligence in sparsely populated, sensitive and dangerous conflict zones and remote border areas and kept the Nationalistic favor high on the agenda.

It was said at the height of militancy in Punjab, you can only contain terror, but cannot stamp it out. The perpetuators of terror exploited fault lines of the society in Punjab and in Kashmir. Religion was used as a tool to motivate the alienated youth to self-destruct. Eventually, the secessionist movement in Punjab ran

aground because it could not find support from most of the masses, of which ex-servicemen were a large majority.

For my research on Kargil War I interviewed some war veterans each veteran uttered nearly the same words during the interview: It pains so much, after the war that you are alive but have lost your brethren who have fought along with you. I wish, could have fought on and gave my life instead of allowing them to evacuate me after I got injured. My kids are grown up and settled now, I once again wish to pledge my life to the nation. I would also like to quote martyred Sepoy Aurangzebs father, Veteran Mohammad Hanif, I am ready to die to unfurl Indian Flag in Kashmir Valley.

The Indian Armed Forces are in themselves like a big neighborhood village where people from different walks of life are recruited and cast into patriotic mold. The forces have recruited foot soldiers, technocrats, engineers, teachers, religious preachers from Maulavi to Priest and the Pujari. They all retire at a very young age

and become ex-servicemen. Why dont we unleash these ex-servicemen as our extreme nationalist weapons against the religious extremists, separatists, Stone palters and the Jihadist perpetrators against whom the armed forces have no jurisdiction, by settling them in the five terror-prone districts of the valley?

The Kashmir riddle can be brought near a solution once we can counter Jihadist and separatist propaganda with nationalist propaganda. At present, the only narrative coming out of the valley of Kashmir is the Pakistani

propaganda narrative. The proxies of Pakistan are successful in selling the Azadi and Jihad to the world and the media. Pakistan can exert so much control over our people and our lands that we are seen on docks now and then.

The UNHRC reports, western media and Indian Liberals are playing the music Pakistan wants them to.

The ex-servicemen hold an advantage in the situation as they have previous experience of the functions of the Indian Armed Forces and can carry out social balancing acts in tandem with the will and wishes of the Government and the military. They hold the key to stability and safety of India from rogue adversaries

and the enemies within.

While fighting the terrorists in the Kashmir valley, we have left the social flank unguarded. The Pakistan proxies successfully made the Kashmiri Pandits leave the valley and thus isolated the society, affiliated to the

people of a single religion, Islam.

The entry of ex-servicemen in the valley will definitely see resistance by the Wahabi fanatics, there will be violent clashes and there will be deaths. The battle-hardened Retired Soldiers have repeatedly proven their mettle while in uniform and off it too.

Mass migration of veterans in the five terrorism-infested districts of the state of J& K can lead us towards bringing a permanent solution to the riddle of Kashmir. For complete decontamination of the citadel of Kashmir from

radical Islam and Azadi gang, these soldiers must be drafted into every organization of the state, every office, every private company, every newspaper, television channel, every government office panchayat everywhere. The 28 lakh strong belligerent ex-Army of soldiers will definitely bring back the heavens in Kashmir.

There are reports that Russians are deploying their ex-servicemen in Ukraine and Syria also.The Abolition of Article 370 & 35A, Air Strikes, surgical strikes and Operation all out of the present Modi regime are considered as milestones in Indias modern Kashmir policy.

The Modi government has shown the political will and therefore, there is no reason for the Kashmir issue to linger on beyond the next five years. It is just a matter of time before the chakravyuha will be breached and smashed.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author Manan Bhatt and do not reflect the views of Zee Media)
New Delhi: The Saharanpur district administration on Saturday (June 4) auctioned 5,400 bicycles which were left behind by migrant workers when they were rushing to their native places during the nationwide Covid-19 lockdown. A total of 21.2 lakh was produced by auction of these bicycles, said Kinshuk Srivastava, sub-divisional magistrate (SDM), Sadar, as per media reports.

After the Covid-19 pandemic hit the world and countries imposed complete lockdown, nearly 25,000 migrant workers reached Saharanpur on bicycles to return to their native places in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar as Saharanpur district is the gateway to Haryana, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

When the migrant labourers reached Saharanpur, they were stopped and quarantined in Radha Swami Satsang enclosures and sent to their native places in buses with the administration handing them tokens to collect their bicycles later.

At least 5400 bicycles belonging to migrant labourers who had set off for their respective hometowns during Covid lockdown was auctioned by the local admin in UP's Saharanpur. They had left the bicycles after govt made arrangements via bus and train to drop them. pic.twitter.com/IGdWV6pz56  Piyush Rai (@Benarasiyaa) June 5, 2022

While 14,600 labourers later returned to Saharanpur and collected their bicycles but 5,400 bicycles lied in open grouds for 2 years and got rusted and hence the administration decided to auction the bicycles.

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Nupur Sharma, the BJP leader who was suspended from the party over her controversial religious remarks, was the spokesperson and leader of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party. She recently sparked a massive controversy with her contentious statement on Islamic God Prophet Muhammad during a television news debate. Her remarks led to violence in Uttar Pradeshs Kanpur on Friday.

A graduate of Delhis Hindu College, Nupur Sharma is an Economics and Law graduate. She went on to do an LLM from the London School of Economics and has been active in politics since her college days.

Sharma was also the President of the Delhi University Student's Union (DUSU) on the ticket of Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) and her political journey began from these outfits.

Nupur Sharma, who has been a prominent face of the BJP Held various significant posts in the party. Some of these portfolios include Member of the National Executive Committee of BJP's youth wing BJYM, National Media Co-In Charge of the BJYM, Member Yuva Working Committee of BJP and Member of the State Executive Committee, BJP Delhi.

She was also a Youth Ambassador of Teach for India (affiliated with Teach for America).

In 2015, Sharma was chosen to contest the Delhi Assembly Election from the New Delhi constituency on BJP's ticket against Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal. However, Kejriwal defeated her.

Nupur Sharma has been the BJP's one of the most active spokesperson in recent years and appeared on numerous television debates. The political also issued a statement on the ongoing controversy.

Nupur Sharma's statement on the Prophet Muhammad controversy

Withdrawing her statement against the Islamic Prophet, Nupur Sharm took to Twitter that she did not intend to hurt the sentiments of any community.

The former-BJP politician also clarified that her statements came at the backdrop of constant insults of Hindu gods during television debates.
New Delhi: On the occasion of World Environment Day 2022, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (June 5, 2022) attended a programme on Save Soil Movement and stated that India's forest cover grew by over 20,000 sq km in the last eight years. Sharing the dais alongside Isha Foundation founder Sadhguru, PM Modi said that today, India has achieved 10% ethanol blending in petrol, five months ahead of its target.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted that India's efforts to protect the environment are multi-dimensional even though its role in climate change is "negligible".

"Earlier, our farmers were not aware of soil health. To overcome this problem, a huge campaign was launched to give soil health cards to the farmers in the country. In this year's Budget, we've announced natural farming along the Ganga river corridor will be promoted," PM Modi said.

Speaking at a programme on Save Soil Movement. @cpsavesoil https://t.co/YRYC1vWEsw  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 5, 2022

Stating that developed nations are responsible for the largest carbon emissions, Prime Minister Modi said the various campaigns launched by the Centre as part of India`s multi-faceted efforts are contributing to the conservation of the environment.

"Many government schemes carry the message of environment conservation. Be it Swachh Bharat Mission, Namai Gange, or One Sun, One Grid. India`s efforts are multi-faceted. Developed nations are responsible for the largest carbon emissions," he said.

The Save Soil Movement is a global movement to increase awareness about deteriorating soil health and bring about a conscious response to improve it. The movement was started by Sadhguru in March 2022, who had embarked on a 100-day motorcycle journey passing through 27 countries.

Later in the day, he will also launch a global initiative Lifestyle for the Environment (LiFE) Movement on Sunday (June 5, 2022). During the video conferencing event which is scheduled to begin at 6 pm, Prime Minister Modi will also deliver a keynote address during the programme.

"The launch will initiate LiFE Global Call for Papers inviting ideas and suggestions from academics, universities & research institutions etc to influence and persuade individuals, communities and organisations across the world to adopt an environment conscious lifestyle," the Prime Minister's Office said in a statement.

"The programme will also witness the participation of Bill Gates, Co-Chairman Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation; Lord Nicholas Stern, Climate Economist; Prof. Cass Sunstein, Author of Nudge Theory; Aniruddha Dasgupta, CEO and President World Resources Institute; Inger Andersen, UNEP Global Head; Achim Steiner, UNDP Global Head and David Malpass, World Bank President, among others," the PMO added.

Tomorrow, 5th June is marked as #WorldEnvironmentDay. At 6 PM, the LiFE global movement will be launched. This movement seeks to encourage practices that further sustainable living and environmentally friendly development. https://t.co/0Uqipvn9Xl  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 4, 2022

It is pertinent to note that the idea of LiFE was introduced by the Prime Minister during the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) in Glasgow in 2021. The idea promotes an environment-conscious lifestyle that focuses on 'mindful and deliberate utilisation' instead of 'mindless and destructive consumption'.
To anyone who enjoyed the European food and warm family atmosphere at Arvadas Golden Europe restaurant, its closing on May 28 hit hard.

Losing a place where the comfort food was as home cooked as you could get with family recipes from the Palla family hurt and disappointed many. There would be no other place serving up the beloved made from scratch dishes like the liver dumpling soup and authentic schnitzel.

But it was time.

The Pallas were tired after 27 years of serving up plates of German, Czechoslovakian and Polish food. Anyone who has worked in it knows the restaurant business can be brutal  busy, stressful, long hours and physical work.

We were done, said Joe Palla. Weve been looking for a buyer, but no one wants to do what weve done. They just want to buy a business. We did everything. All the cooking, cleaning, vacuuming, mopping, toilet cleaning was all done by family. We never had a manager.  Its been a long time coming.

Josef and Emilie Palla, Joes parents, bought the former Pizza Hut at 6620 Wadsworth Blvd. on June 22, 1995, for $215,000. Its in a strip mall called the Shops on Wadsworth.

The Palla family immigrated to America in 1980 from Czechoslovakia with nothing but suitcases, landing in the Chicago area. Joe Palla was 8 years old.

In just five years, they scraped together enough money to open the Little Bohemia restaurant in Riverside, Illinois, using recipes handed down from Emilies family for generations. They operated it for eight years before heading to the sunny skies and mountains of Colorado.

We wanted to move to Colorado  its beautiful here, Joe Palla said. We had vacationed here. It was a big move for the family. We were looking for a place to open a restaurant and landed here in Arvada.

Emilie, known affectionately as Mama by the legions of Golden Europe customers, was the main cook. Josef did whatever needed to be done, including hosting, busing and waiting tables in addition to running the business side of the restaurant.

Young Joe worked as a busboy at first, but he grew up at the Golden Europe and eventually took over for his partially retired dad about 10 years ago.

I was the assistant cook and did everything. I did all the shopping  we never got deliveries. Id go to Restaurant Depot, Costco, Sams Club because I hated the vegetables they used to deliver, he said. Moms recipes were from her parents, but she came up with a lot of them, too.

Joes son, 14-year-old Jakub, worked at the restaurant, as did his wife Halina.

Families in north metro Denver grew to love the Golden Europe. Theyd bring European relatives there. Theyd celebrate birthdays and anniversaries with the apple strudel and generous portions, washed down with German beer. Theyd get a meal before a show at the Arvada Center for the Arts across the street.

So when it was finally time to close, the Pallas contemplated their final curtain call.

My parents are 73. Im 50, but feel like 70, Joe Palla said. We were ready to leave.

They knew anyone taking over the restaurant would not be able to deliver the made from scratch food and the family atmosphere like they could.

My mom feels like we left our mark here, this footprint in Arvada. Someone taking over would never be the same. And it usually goes down. We didnt want to leave like that.

And they didnt want to just suddenly close the doors.

So they decided on a two-week last call, announced on their website, Facebook page and Instagram.

What they werent prepared for was the crush of customers and huge outpouring of love and good luck wishes that flowed from the Jefferson County community.

There was not an empty table for those last two weeks  the line was constant and stretched into the parking lot night after night.

It was crazy. We were not expecting that, Joe Palla said.

They halted all to-go orders. They stopped taking reservations. They even quit answering the phone. And still the customers came  sometimes night after night.

The line May 26 started an hour before the doors opened at 4:30 p.m.

Many in line had tried to get a table the night before, but the wait was more than two hours  so they came back earlier the next day.

Rick and Fran Thompson, Jefferson County natives, were at the front of that line.

Ive eaten almost everything on the menu here, Rick Thompson said. They have the absolute best German food.

Its better than what Ive gotten in Germany, added Lisa Cillessen of Broomfield, who frequented the Golden Europe for 20 years.

Thompson said he first discovered the restaurant after his brother, who had married a German woman, brought him with the promise of how authentic the German food was.

The red cabbage, wiener schnitzel and potato salad are my absolute favorites, said Thompson.

The classic wiener schnitzel dish, by the way, is NOT a hot dog. Its a breaded, tenderized veal dish.

I havent had a 30-minute break since we announced the closing, said Joe Palla, in between taking food and drink orders.

One man brought flowers and a card for Mama.

Customers didnt seem to mind the wait and profusely thanked the Pallas for the good food and 27 years of memories. One customer posted on Facebook a picture of four generations of her family eating its last meal there.

The svickova is the dish that (made) me fall in love with this place, said Cillessen, who had gone to the restaurant a few days earlier, too. My daughter worked as a buser here.

My aunt and uncle celebrated their anniversary here every year, said Debbie Roach, who was waiting with her husband Dennis. This is a special place. I dont know where were going to go now to get that authentic German food.

Matthew Johnson, 26, of Westminster has been frequenting the Golden Europe since he was 7.

My sister was in German class at Stanley High School and her German Club used to come here, said Johnson, who took off work early from his bartending job so he could get in line early enough. It was too long the night before.

Its such a great spot  Im really going to miss it.

Johnson cant afford to eat out too many times on his bartenders salary, but he budgeted in a couple last visits to the Golden Europe.

His own German Club at Stanley High started coming to the restaurant and continued the tradition after they turned 21  enjoying the German beer with a couple of prost cheers and singing German drinking songs like Oh du lieber Augustin. His German teacher made the last call, too.

Johnson usually gets the boot-shaped glass of pilsner, which is 1 liter (about 33 ounces), and he always gets the liver dumpling soup.

I introduced a friend to it not long back. Now hes mad at me because its closing after he got hooked on the food, Johnson said. Im happy I got to enjoy it as many times as I have. This is my comfort food.

Everyone leaving that night took large doggie bags home  though its doubtful any canines actually got that food as customers cherished taking the last taste of Golden Europe home.

Longtime customers begged the Pallas on the restaurants Facebook page to share recipes for those well-loved dishes like the liver dumpling soup or the svickova (a Czech-style sauerbraten dish).

There were no recipes. They were all in Mamas head, Joe Palla said. And we made really large portions of them. How do you share that?

She might make a recipe book, but for now the whole family needs a break.

On the last night, Mama came out of the kitchen and the entire dining room burst into applause as Emilie wept, Joe Palla said.

We couldnt believe people were waiting that long. Weve had a line here or there on a Friday or Saturday night, but weve never experienced something like this. The employees couldnt believe what was going on.  We all worked 80 hours a week those last two weeks.

I didnt know we had such a following.

And May 28, it finally hit home. The familys second home  they counted customers as part of their family  would never open again.

A group of priests from Arvada's St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church enjoyed the last supper, so to speak. The family joined them after the 8:30 p.m. closing and they reminisced into the night.

(The last day) was an emotional day for everyone, Joe Palla said.

Then the family rolled up their sleeves May 29 and May30, deep cleaning the building and clearing out 27 years of memories.

They sold the building May31.

We really want to thank all the customers and employees for the last 27 years, Joe Palla said. Weve seen them weekly, sometimes, and thats going to end. But I made a lot of contacts in the last two weeks, and Ill actually have time now to visit with them.

For the Pallas, the American dream became reality.
New Delhi: On the occasion of World Environment Day 2022, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch a global initiative Lifestyle for the Environment (LiFE) Movement on Sunday (June 5, 2022). During the video conferencing event which is scheduled to begin at 6 pm, Prime Minister Modi will also deliver a keynote address during the programme.

"The launch will initiate LiFE Global Call for Papers inviting ideas and suggestions from academics, universities & research institutions etc to influence and persuade individuals, communities and organisations across the world to adopt an environment conscious lifestyle," the Prime Minister's Office said in a statement.

"The programme will also witness the participation of Bill Gates, Co-Chairman Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation; Lord Nicholas Stern, Climate Economist; Prof. Cass Sunstein, Author of Nudge Theory; Aniruddha Dasgupta, CEO and President World Resources Institute; Inger Andersen, UNEP Global Head; Achim Steiner, UNDP Global Head and David Malpass, World Bank President, among others," the PMO added.

Tomorrow, 5th June is marked as #WorldEnvironmentDay. At 6 PM, the LiFE global movement will be launched. This movement seeks to encourage practices that further sustainable living and environmentally friendly development. https://t.co/0Uqipvn9Xl  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 4, 2022

It is pertinent to note that the idea of LiFE was introduced by the Prime Minister during the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) in Glasgow in 2021. The idea promotes an environment-conscious lifestyle that focuses on 'mindful and deliberate utilisation' instead of 'mindless and destructive consumption'.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also slated to attend a programme on Save Soil Movement at 11 AM alongside Isha Foundation founder Sadhguru.

Looking forward to attending the session on crafting a #ConsciousPlanet with @SadhguruJV at 11 AM tomorrow, 5th June. https://t.co/RD1eeLkD3z  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 4, 2022

The Save Soil Movement is a global movement to increase awareness about deteriorating soil health and bring about a conscious response to improve it. The movement was started by Sadhguru in March 2022, who embarked on a 100-day motorcycle journey passing through 27 countries.
New Delhi: Actress Urvashi Rautela made a spectacular arrival last night at the IIFA Awards 2022 that was held at Etihad Arena on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. The actress looked drop-dead gorgeous as she donned a whopping Rs 20 lakh mermaid silhouette embellished dress by Amato Couture. The orange long dress had feathers attached to it. Urvashi's hourglass figure was accentuated in the beautiful gown.

Urvashi accessorised her look with long studded earrings which was also by Amato jewelry. The actress also wore a diamond slave bracelet which had a ring attached to it and a green big diamond-studded ring by Renu Manjunath Lable that completed her look.

The actress chose to tie up her hair in a pony in a messy hairdo with side parting and bangs tied up loose. The entire look was styled by Ian Borromeo.

Talking about Urvashis look, Borromeo shared, "When you work with somebody who's at the level of Urvashi Rautela you have to bring your A-game every second of every day. It took 20 people and approximately 1,300 hours to complete the dress. The dress is one of the most spectacular dresses.

Urvashi was recently appointed as the first global brand ambassador for the smile train foundation. On the work front, Urvashi was last seen judging the Miss Universe Pageant 2021, and also bagged appreciation for her international song Versace Baby alongside Arab superstar Mohamed Ramadan.

The actress is now making her Hollywood debut along with 365 Days star Michele Morrone for a film which will be produced by Netflix, Tomasz Mandes, and will be directed by 365 Days director Barbara Bialowas. Urvashi will also be seen opposite international superstar Jason Derulo in her next international music single.
NEW DELHI: IIFA Awards 2022 held at Yas Island in Abu Dhabi on Saturday saw several Bollywood celebrities in attendance. Among the Bollywood A-listers who were seen at the event included names Salman Khan, Shahid Kapoor, Tiger Shroff, Ananya Panday, Sara Ali Khan, Vicky Kaushal, Riteish Deshmukh, Genelia D'Souza, Kriti Sanon and others.

A picture of Abhishek and Salman sitting on either side of Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, who heads the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Social Development, was being widely shared online. In the image, the two actors are seen having a deep conversation with Sheikh Nahyan as they got photographed sitting in the front row. Fans of the two actors were filled with joy to see them together.

Fans could not seem to control their excitement on seeing the two actors together. A user wrote: "Good to see them together... Matured people." Another wrote: "Abhishek and Salman in one frame."

For the unversed, Salman was earlier in a relationship with Aishwarya Rai. However, after entertaining the audience with their crackling chemistry in 'Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam', the two ended up on a bitter note with the actress accusing Khan of physical violence. The once madly-in-love couple barely acknowledge each other today, on their public appearances and moreover kind of avoid each other. Aishwarya is now married to Abhishek and the couple are parent to 10-year-old daughter Aaradhya Bachchan.

Speaking of Salman, the superstar had turned into a 'Dabangg' host at the star-studded event. He was seen hosting the event with Riteish Deshmukh and Maniesh Paul. Abhishek, on the other hand, was a show-stealer.

In a video that has been widely shared on the internet, Abhishek is seen grooving to the song 'Tattad Tattad' in an ivory sherwani. He gets down the stage and shakes a leg with his daughter, who looked adorable in a white sparkly dress. Aishwarya also joined them with matching steps. After finishing his act, Abhishek even blew a kiss on Aaradhya.

As soon as the video got viral, fans flooded the comment section with compliments for the Bachchan family.

A fan wrote, "So cute", while another fan commented, "This is amazing". However, there were few who trolled the duo, given the history Salman and Aishwarya share. Take alook:

One of the most adorable couples in Bollywood, Abhishek and Aishwarya made a grand couple entry on the green carpet of the IIFA Awards 2022. While the former Miss World looks stunning as ever in a black outfit with floral accents on it. On the other hand, the 'Bob Biswas' actor donned a black tux with quirky glasses.

This year, IIFA is being held in Abu Dhabi`s Etihad Arena, of Yas Bay Waterfront on Yas Island on June 2, 3, and 4.

Live TV
New Delhi: As we celebrate World Environment Day on June 5, &TV celebrities highlight the importance of acting conscientiously in the interests of environmental conservation. Shivya Pathania (Devi Parvati, Baal Shiv), Farhana Fatema (Shanti Mishra, Aur Bhai Kya Chal Raha hai? ), Himani Shivpuri (Katori Amma, Happu Ki Ultan Paltan), and Shubhangi Atre (Angoori Bhabi, Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai) talk about the importance of sustainability and conservation.

Shivya Pathania, aka Devi Parvati in &TVs Baal Shiv, shares, Climate change, air pollution, water scarcity are among the most burning issues globally. Practising sustainable living and doing our bit for the environment is something we all can do. Our small efforts can make a big difference. The simplest thing one can do is reduce energy consumption. Your electrical appliances consume resources when produced and energy during use. Always switch off and do not keep them on standby mode when not in use, and the same applies to your fans, lights and other pieces of equipment. Always look at energy labels before purchasing any appliance. It can go a long way in reducing your carbon footprint. One can also replace incandescent lamps and energy-saving lamps with LEDs - this will save you electricity and money in the long run. Also, to reduce waste, attempt to reuse products and items as many times as possible before discarding them.

Shubhangi Atre, aka Angoori Bhabi in &TVs Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai, shares, To be honest, I feel that transformative sustainability solutions must be accessible, inexpensive, and appealing for people to make better daily decisions. At home, I believe in growing my fruits and veggies. It lets one verify that I am not applying or inhaling any pesticides that pollute the water and air. It also helps to eliminate negativity in your home, and you will be able to converse with plants when you are alone. Growing and planting in the house bring me joy and satisfaction. I treat my plants as if they were my children, and I treat them as such. Similarly, I encourage everyone to plant a tree and adore it at home, work, or wherever else; you will feel great.

Himani Shivpuri, aka Katori Amma in &TVs Happu Ki Ultan Paltan, shares, Many of us are ignorant of how fortunate we are to have water available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Water scarcity is becoming a problem in many world regions, especially in landlocked countries. Imagine waiting for hours in a big line to fill a single bucket with water. Water conservation is a big challenge, particularly in a country as densely populated as ours. Let us not take the monsoon for granted now that it has here. Conserve as much water as possible. You can save water by irrigating your plants with the same water to wash your vegetables. Water can be conserved in a variety of ways. So that everyone benefits, because we all know that the world exists to meet everyone's needs, not satisfy everyone's greed.

Farhana Fatema, aka Shanti Mishra in &TVs Aur Bhai Kya Chal Raha Hai?, shares, This World Environment Day, we must shift from harming the planet to healing it, and charity begins at home. Electricity consumption without thought is harmful to the environment in more ways than one! Whenever I am in my hometown, Uttar Pradesh, my family and I make sure that we utilize the least power possible. Simple efforts such as unplugging electronics when not in use, using natural light throughout the day, and using air conditioning rationally and intelligently could go a long way toward energy conservation and an effective cooling system. The good news is that the solutions and the technology exist and are increasingly affordable.
New Delhi: The month of June has begun, which means that banks will be given a fresh list of holidays to use for the month. In June, all lenders in the private and governmental sectors will be closed for up to eight days. Two of June's eight bank holidays have already been used up, including a weekend break and a regional bank holiday. Six weekend leaves are included in the June bank holidays. So, if you need to conduct some banking, check with your local branch to see if there are any bank holidays this month to avoid any inconvenience. It's also worth noting that June 5 is a bank holiday because it falls on a weekend.

The Reserve Bank of India, or RBI, has already brought up a list of bank holidays for next month. At the start of each year, the RBI puts out a schedule for how bankers will take their annual break. All public sector, private sector, foreign banks, cooperative banks, and regional banks' branches are closed on the RBI's declared bank holidays.

The Reserve Bank of India has issued three types of holidays: the Negotiable Instruments Act, Holiday, Real Time Gross Settlement Holiday, and Banks' Closing of Accounts. All banks across the country, including the public sector, private sector, foreign banks, cooperative banks, and regional banks, would be closed on certain announced holidays, according to RBI guidelines. On April 1, one holiday is in effect due to 'Banks' Closing of Accounts,' when the bulk of banks across the country remain closed, while the 'Holiday under Negotiable Instruments Act' category has the most holidays.

In this context, it's worth noting that bank holidays recognised under the Negotiable Instruments Act differ by location. Due to Y.M.A. Day/ Guru Hargobind Ji's Birthday/ Raja Sankranti, June 15 is a bank holiday in Aizawl, Bhubaneshwar, Jammu, and Srinagar, although banks across India will be open on that day. During the weekend, however, all banks across the country are closed. Under the Negotiable Instruments Act, there are only two bank holidays in June, one of which has already been used.

List of holidays in June 2022

June 2: Maharana Pratap Jayanti  Shillong

June 15: Y.M.A. Day/ Guru Hargobind Jis Birthday/ Raja Sankranti  Aizawl, Bhubaneshwar, Jammu, Srinagar

Apart from this, there are six weekend leaves where banks will be closed all across the country. These are mentioned below

List of Weekend Leaves

June 5: Sunday

June 11: Second Saturday

June 12: Sunday

June 19: Sunday

June 25: Fourth Saturday

June 26: Fourth Saturday
New Delhi: In India, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued banknotes have been carrying a watermark of only one prominent figure, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, the father of the nation. But in what could be a first, the RBI reportedly could consider introducing watermarks of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore and 11th Indian President APJ Abdul Kalam.

The Finance Ministry along with the RBI might soon discuss introducing the watermark of one of the greatest Indian writers and the Missile Man of India on a new series of the banknotes of a few denominations, according to a report by the New Indian Express.

The report also pointed out that the RBI and the Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India (SPMCIL) have sent two different sample sets featuring watermarks of the three prominent figures to IIT-Delhi Emeritus Professor Dilip T Shahani. The professor has been reportedly asked to select a set from the two options. The selected set will be presented in front of the government for final consideration.

It is important to note that so far, RBI issued notes have never used an image or watermark of any other important personality, besides Mahatma Gandhi.

Further, sources quoted in the report, pointed out that the final decision to pick one or all the three watermarks will be taken at the highest level. As of now, no concrete decision has been taken. Also Read: Apple WWDC 2022 from tomorrow: New Macbook Air, iOS 16, iPadOS 16, and more to launch

However, this isnt the first time when the RBI is considering adding the watermarks of more prominent figures to banknotes. Sources in the report highlighted that an RBI internal committee proposed adding watermarks of Tagore and Kalam on Rs 2000 banknotes alongside Gandhis. Also Read: Bank holiday on June 5? Banks to remain shut on THESE days, check full list
New Delhi: Two days after reportedly emailing employees of a 10 per cent job cut at Tesla, CEO Elon Musk on Sunday retracted his statements saying total headcounts will increase. However, Musk also noted that the number of salaried people may not change. An unverified Twitter account by the name Whole Mars Catalog tweeted that headcount in the Tesla company will increase in the coming year.

"Over the next 12 months Tesla`s headcount will increase." To this Musk replied: "Total headcount will increase, but salaried should be fairly flat"

A Reuters report said on Friday that Musk has emailed Tesla executives, telling them the electric car-maker needs to pause hiring worldwide and cut its workforce by about 10 per cent.

Tesla has nearly 1 lakh employees worldwide and Musk cites his "super bad feeling" about the economy for reducing the workforce.

Musk is also facing a "crypto winter" and his favourite cryptocurrency Dogecoin has seen its value dip by nearly 60 per cent over the last six months.

Earlier this week, Musk gave an ultimatum to Tesla employees to either return to office or get out, saying they "should pretend to work somewhere else" if they disagree with the company`s policy.

He sent a series of emails that asked employees to come back to the office or be terminated.

"Anyone who wishes to do remote work must be in the office for a minimum (and I mean minimum) of 40 hours per week or depart Tesla. This is less than we ask of factory workers," Musk wrote, reports Electrek.

Despite supply chain challenges and factory shutdown in China, Tesla earned $3.3 billion profit in the first quarter this year, registering $18.7 billion in revenue. Also Read: Garena Free Fire redeem codes for today, June 5: Website, redemption steps, other details

In the first quarter, Tesla produced more than 305,000 vehicles and delivered more than 310,000 vehicles. Also Read: Gold price today, June 5: Gold rates drop after slight increase this week; good time to invest?
Islamabad: Amid rumours of a plot being hatched to assassinate former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, the Islamabad police department said on Saturday night that the security agencies have been put on high alert in adjoining areas of Bani Gala in the city. Section 144 has already been imposed in Islamabad and gatherings have been banned, the Islamabad police spokesperson said on Saturday.

"In view of the expected arrival of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan in Bani Gala, which is a residential area located in Islamabad, security in the area has been beefed up and a high alert has been sounded. However, until now Islamabad Police has not received any confirmed news of return from Imran Khan`s team," Islamabad Police tweeted.

Islamabad police to provide security to Imran Khan

"Security Division has deployed dedicated security in Bani Gala. A list of people in Bani Gala has not been provided yet to Police. Section 144 is imposed in Islamabad and any congregation is not allowed as per orders of District Magistrate," it said.

"Islamabad Police will provide complete security to Imran Khan as per the law and reciprocal cooperation is expected from Security teams of Imran Khan as well," the police added.

Hassaan Niazi, nephew of Imran Khan said that if anything happens to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief, the act will be treated as an attack on Pakistan.

"Anything happens to our leader Imran Khan, will be treated as attack on Pakistan. Response will aggressive - the Handlers will also regret," Hassaan Niazi, nephew of Imran Khan said.

Fawad Chaudhry earlier said that PTI Chairman Imran Khan is coming to Islamabad on Sunday. In April, Chaudhary had said that the securities agencies of the country have reported a `plot` for the assassination of Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan.

"After these reports, the prime minister`s security has been beefed up as per the government`s decision," he was quoted as saying by the Pakistan newspaper Dawn.

Rumours of conspiracy to assassinate Imran Khan

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf leader Faisal Vawda also made similar claims that there was a conspiracy developed to assassinate the Pakistani PM over his refusal to "sell the country".

While responding to the conspiracy to assassinate the premier was mentioned in the letter, Vawda said that there was a threat to the Pakistan PM`s life but remained evasive. He further said that Khan was advised to use bulletproof glasses during his rally at Islamabad`s Parade ground. "But as always and as usual, he said my [death] will come when Allah wills. Don`t worry about it," Vawda was quoted as saying by Dawn.

This news comes a day after the Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif said that a foreign nation sent a message that he needs "to be removed" or Pakistan will face consequences.

Live TV
Abuja: At least 50 people were killed and others injured after gunmen attacked a Catholic church in Nigeria`s Ondo state during mass on Sunday, a doctor and local media reported.

A doctor at a hospital in Owo, a town in the state in Nigeria`s southwest, told Reuters that no fewer than 50 bodies had been moved to the FMC (Federal Medical Center) in Owo and to St. Louis Catholic Hospital.

President Muhammadu Buhari condemned the attack, calling it "heinous". The identity and motive of the attackers was not immediately clear. Local media said gunmen had fired at worshippers and detonated explosives at the church. Those killed included women and children.

Funmilayo Ibukun Odunlami, police spokesperson for Ondo state, said only that there had been an incident at the Saint Francis Catholic Church in Owo and said police would issue a further statement soon.

Africa`s most populous country has witnessed attacks and kidnappings for ransom by armed gangs, mostly in its northwest. Such attacks are rare in southwestern Nigeria. Ondo state governor Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu cut short a trip to the capital Abuja and returned to Ondo after the attack. "We shall commit every available resource to hunt down these assailants and make them pay," he said in a statement.
LONDON: President Vladimir Putin warned the West that Russia would strike new targets if the United States started supplying Ukraine with longer-range missiles, Reuters reported on Sunday. If such missiles are supplied, "we will strike at those targets which we have not yet been hitting," Putin was quoted as saying in an interview Rossiya-1 state television channel.

Putin did not name the targets Russia planned to pursue if Western countries began supplying Ukraine with longer-range missiles.

Ukraine has been seeking Multiple Rocket Launch Systems (MLRS) such as the M270 and M142 HIMARS to strike troops and weapons stockpiles at the Russian forces` rear.

U.S. President Joe Biden announced plans this week to give Ukraine precision HIMARS rocket systems after receiving assurances from Kyiv that it would not use them to hit targets inside Russia.

Although Russian officials have warned that the U.S. decision to supply Ukraine with advanced rocket systems could exacerbate the conflict, Putin said it would not bring on any fundamental changes on the battlefield.

"We understand that this supply (of advance rocket systems) from the United States and some other countries is meant to make up for the losses of this military equipment," Putin said.

"This is nothing new," he said.

"It doesn`t change anything in essence," the Russian President added.
By Trend





Air Canada is expecting a demand for flights between Canada and the Asia-Pacific to recover to a near pre-pandemic level by December next year, a top regional executive said on Saturday, Trend reports with reference to Reuters.

Currently, the routes between Canada and the Asia-Pacific run at 30% of the 2019 capacity, but the capacity is expected to double by the end of December, said Kiyo Weiss, the airline's sales director for the Asia-Pacific.

The airline is also considering adding flights to a new destination in the Asia-Pacific in the near future to cater for pent-up demand in leisure travel, she said.

"Probably we'll make a decision within a month or so," Weiss said, without providing further details.

Canada's largest carrier is seeking to augment its presence in the region to meet high demand, particularly from Southeast Asian countries, as the area recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The airline on Saturday resumed direct flights between Montreal and Tokyo's Narita airport that had been disrupted by the pandemic.
MONTGOMERY, Ala.  U.S. Senate candidate Katie Britt, who last month sharply criticized one opponent for not debating in the race, now indicated she will not debate opponent Rep. Mo Brooks ahead of the runoff election.

Her campaign said the congressman is seeking a circus instead of a debate. The Brooks camp accused Britt of hiding.

Katie wont participate in the final circus act of Mos career  she will continue to work tirelessly and travel to every corner of Alabama to share her conservative message, listen to Alabamians, and answer their questions, Britt spokesman Sean Ross said.

Britt and Brooks will face each other in the June 21 runoff that will decide the GOP nomination for the seat being vacated by retiring U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby. Britt, the former president of the Business Council of Alabama and Shelbys former chief of staff, led Brooks in the May 24 primary, but the race must go to a runoff because no candidate captured more than 50% of the initial vote.

Britt had sharply criticized Mike Durant, who finished third in the May 24 primary, for not accepting debate invitations ahead of the primary. At the time, the three candidates were considered to be in a tight race to decide which two would make the expected runoff.

Brooks accused Britt of being hypocritical after lobbing criticisms at Durant.

Katie Britts debate refusal is an admission of profound weakness at a time America needs fighters in the U.S. Senate, not pushovers. As my record reflects, I am exactly the fighter America needs at this critical juncture in history, Brooks said in a statement.

The Alabama Republican Party is seeking to organize a debate ahead of the June 21 runoff. Chairman John Wahl said this week that the offer to the two candidates stands open, and that questions would come from GOP primary voters. Several media outlets had also sought to host a debate.

Asked about her past criticisms of Durant, Ross said Britt had been accessible to voters and had appeared at several forums with Brooks.

Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
With unemployment in Chinese cities increasing substantially, especially among educated young people who are unable to find work, protests have erupted in many of China`s colleges and universities. The dissatisfaction of the protestors with the authorities and society has risen sharply. Unemployment has risen in China, and society and regime are unstable. Protests by students frequently erupt in China`s colleges and universities due to the closure of the epidemic, rising unemployment, and social instability. On the evening of May 26, students from Tianjin University held a rally and demonstration because they were dissatisfied with the authorities` extreme epidemic prevention measures and shouted the slogan - "Down with bureaucracy!"There was also a protest at the adjacent Nankai University.

On the evening of May 24, students at Beijing Normal University marched on campus against the "Zero-COVID" policy. On the evening of May 23, protests also broke out at the China University of Political Science and Law.On the evening of May 15, Peking University students gathered on the campus to collectively protest these measures which have marred their career prospects severely. Student protests have broken out frequently in universities in Beijing and Tianjin.

It is conceivable how far social dissatisfaction has evolved. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is very worried about a repeat of the Tiananmen June 4 Student Movement.China`s "zero" epidemic prevention self-destructed the economy, and the students are deeply pained.

The country is in shambles and the people are retreating as large-scale technology companies have been purged by the government and laid-off workers one after another. Small, and medium enterprises (SMEs) are also struggling to survive.

The lockdown caused stores to close, cinemas to close, factories to shut down, service industries to shut down, and schools to close; it trapped consumers, trapped workers, created logistical chaos, and even shut down the economy. The consequence is soaring unemployment and social instability.

Live TV
Rehoboth Beach: A small private airplane mistakenly entered restricted airspace near President Joe Biden's Delaware vacation home Saturday (June 4, 2022), prompting the brief evacuation of the president and first lady, the White House and the Secret Service said.

The White House said there was no threat to Biden or his family and that precautionary measures were taken.

After the situation was assessed, Biden and his wife, Jill, returned to their Rehoboth Beach home.

The Secret Service said in a statement that the plane was immediately escorted from the restricted airspace after mistakenly entering a secured area.

The agency said it would interview the pilot who, according to a preliminary investigation, was not on the proper radio channel and was not following published flight guidance.

As is standard practice for presidential trips outside Washington, the Federal Aviation Administration published flight restrictions earlier this week before Biden's beach town visit.

The restrictions include a 10-mile radius no-fly zone contained with a 30-mile restricted zone.

A CBS News reporter said on Twitter that he saw Biden motorcading to a Rehoboth Beach fire station.

The group of reporters that travels with the president was not part of the motorcade.

Federal regulations require pilots to check for flight restrictions along their route before taking off.

Still, accidental airspace breaches, particularly around temporary restricted zones, are common.

U.S. Military jets and Coast Guard helicopters are often used to intercept any planes that violate the flight restrictions around the president.

Intercepted planes are diverted to a nearby airfield where aircrews are interviewed by law enforcement and face potential criminal or civil penalties.
Cletus is our Pet of the Week!

Meet our newest fluffy tail feline! Cletus is approximately two years of age and was found at a campsite. Normally when domesticated cats are dumped they are not easily accepted by the free roaming community cats in that area (ferals); the males will fight leaving deep gashes that can become easily infected if left untreated. Cletus found himself abandoned and would hang out where he could find food: near humans.

He was brought to SOS Animal Shelter in hope that there may have been a family missing him. After his seven day stray hold we began vetting. He is now in our cat rooms, enjoying the safe haven where he can have access to food and sunbathe in our cattery.

If you are looking for a sweet feline, stop in to SOS and meet Cletus. He is very eager to meet you!
Vietnamese police recently arrested a Taiwanese suspect involved in an operation that hacked major banks. Illustration photo by Image by TheDigitalWay from Pixabay

Foreign cyber criminals have infiltrated the server systems of several large Vietnamese banks and stolen a lot of money from customers, according to the Ministry of Public Security.

Ministry spokesman and chief of office, Lieutenant General To An Xo, said Saturday that the hackers were mainly Taiwanese. They checked for security holes and launched "privilege escalation" attacks to access server systems of the banks and withdraw money from customer accounts.

To deal with this situation, the ministry has requested the banks to coordinate with its agencies to patch security holes in their server management system.

At the moment, the police have arrested a Taiwanese suspect and an investigation is ongoing.

Lieutenant General Xo said that cyber crimes and property obtained by fraud were escalating. In the first five months of 2022, the Ministry of Public Security detected and handled 840 cases related to online fraud (up 42 percent compared to the last six months of 2021); and prosecuted 185 people in 255 cases.

Some common methods and tricks used by scammers include taking advantage of the high demand for jobs after the Covid-19 pandemic. They advertise remote jobs with minimal effort and attractive remuneration but require applicants to pay a brokerage fee in advance. Then they disappear with the money.

Scammers also use VoIP services to impersonate officers in law enforcement agencies (police, prosecutors, courts) to call people and tell them that they are involved in a pending case and ask them to transfer a large amount of money to the account they provide for "investigation". Many unwitting, unaware and gullible people have transferred the money, Xo said.

"They can also scam through multi-level marketing businesses or through trading platforms such as stock exchanges, gold, foreign currencies, real estate, acting as a focal point for foreign exchanges to entice customers to open trading accounts there, then expropriate the investment money," he said.
Vietnamese Deputy Minister of Public Security Lieut. Gen. Nguyen Duy Ngoc speaks at the meeting. (Photo: VNA)



The two ministries reviewed the implementation of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on cooperation in drug fight, signed in the Lao capital city of Vientiane on August 9, 2021.



Vietnamese Deputy Minister of Public Security Lieut. Gen. Nguyen Duy Ngoc pointed out increasing cross-border drug cases, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic.



He suggested the two sides work on orientations and tasks to improve the collaboration in the time ahead.



It was reported that after the six-month implementation of the MoU, competent forces detected 112 cases, with 140 individuals, and 83.6kg of heroin and 109kg of meth seized.



The two sides identified 26 organisations trafficking drugs from Laos to Vietnam, and arrested 16 Vietnamese wanted drug traffickers in the neighbouring country, according to the report.



Under the document, 202 headquarters were built for Lao public security forces in hamlets bordering Vietnam.



Vietnams public security forces also helped their Lao counterparts in the management work, the compilation of relevant legal documents and personnel training, and provided them with necessary equipment to serve the combat.



The Lao side said it highly values Vietnams valuable support which has contributed to the fight against cross-border crimes.



Vietnam and Laos share a border of over 2,300km that runs across 10 Vietnamese provinces and 10 Lao localities./.
Ihor Zhdanov, Information Defence Project , Open Policy Foundation

The project Information Defence of Ukraine offers you new and ever more creative formats for its experts analytical reviews.

Minded that by this the 100 day anniversary of russia's full-scale war against Ukraine we would have already provided a lot of high-quality analysis, we have decided to offer our readers something different: personal memories, sometimes ironic, dark and sarcastic thoughts, and impressions of communicating with friends.

Information Defence of Ukraine offers a preliminary review of May 22nd-29th, which is devoted to the geopolitical situation: Ukr Eng.

1. Ukrainians are a nationality of paradoxes: about ourselves, our wives, about us and Ukraine.

I always say that war raises both the best and the worst that exists in the individual and the nation as an entire being.

Most Ukrainians without unnecessary reminders collect things for support, sometimes giving the last they have to volunteer at the front. But there is always a little group of those who want to knock off even the last.

Near the military enlistment offices are the queues to be mobilised for the Armed Forces, the Territorial defence battalions can be reached only having a special protection i.e. a legitimate medical reason for not being able to serve in the official forces. A young man dressed in women's clothes was detained at the border and tried to leave for Poland in order not to serve in the army. Another creative guy hid in the trunk of a car in a baby box.

My wife Iryna is the owner and director of a small private online school. From February 24th, she has not stopped teaching even for a day, teachers conduct remote lessons under the sound of sirens, and from bomb shelters. She set herself a voluntary task: to provide free distance learning for young Ukrainians who have lost this opportunity. Before the war, she taught around several dozen students, but now she is teaching up to five thousand students for free. I am proud.

In mid-April, I saw a brand-new Maybach near the Arsenalna underground station, which was obviously delivered under preferential customs clearance for private use. My only desire was to take a nail and make an inscription on the shiny lacquered side: ZSU (The Armed Forces of Ukraine). Goes to the front!

Many of my friends are at the frontline or in the Territorial defence groups. I sit at home - I have been rehabilitating after a stroke, I have been writing analytics for Information Defence, I am helping the front, step by step, to the best of my ability as a volunteer.

I feel uncomfortable, I am used to being at the centre of events since 2014, I am ashamed now. I met a friend who came from the frontline, he has concussion, I also can't hear with one ear. Therefore, we were sitting and talking, turning to each other on the side that has the ability to hear.

He told me about his courageous feeling. He says, Yeah, and three more guys need to be sent with you to transfer you to the battlefield (it is still a little difficult for me to walk). I am slightly relaxed.

2. How Ukrainians learned to volunteer: Ukraine is above all!.

Two revolutions  The Orange Revolution and The Dignity Revolution, the beginning of the anti-terrorist operation - taught people to volunteer, supply and replace the government where needed: to help at the back of the Armed Forces, providing food, supply of bulletproof vests and helmets.

The active majority knew what to do and how to do it - volunteer help went to the front in large amounts from the first days of the war.

There is another paradox. Thanks to the coronavirus pandemic - it taught us to work remotely using modern digital gadgets. It would be difficult without it.

We joined the Information Defence project in a few days, although we did not know each other before, some of us have been working in Kyiv, someone in Vinnytsia, and someone in London.

The obscene colloquial vocabulary has become the norm in our wartime.

Drawing by Nikita Titov

The answer of the frontier guard russian military ship, go fuck yourself! not only crystallized our attitude towards russian aggression, but also opened the gateways for the use of colloquial phrases on TV.

As for the russian warship, it sank after a "friendly" meeting with a Ukrainian Neptune missile.

I have been talking to one of the best Ukrainian religious intellectuals, Father Heorhii (Kovalenko). The UOC-MP allegedly announced the severance of relations with the Moscow Patriarchate. He said: In the occupied territories: "UOC plus MP; in Ukrainian territories: "UOC minus MP". In general, the UOC must go with the russian military ship.

3. About war, gifts, and genocide.

A gift for 100 days of the war is 30,000 liquidated russian occupiers. The only thought is Hell will mend you all.

Drawing by Nikita Titov

And now about the sad issues: first of all about Bucha as a symbol of genocide of Ukrainians. No one in the 21st century believed that russian occupiers would be so inhuman. The number of civilians killed, and not just as a result of the shelling, is beyond the limits of understanding. Consciousness tries to build a wall, and the mind refuses to believe in what has been seen and heard.

Shortly after the territory was liberated, I went to Bucha, Hostomel, and Irpin, gaining nothing but hatred for the russian occupiers. I think this is right.

I think, like everyone: is this possible in the 21st century, are our neighbours non-human cannibals who have no morals, consciences, or basic human principles?

It turns out, they do not have it, and this inhuman behaviour is possible.

4. About russia, the occupiers and a so-called russian culture.

russia is a country whose name we Ukrainians, without any special agreement, have begun to write in lower case.

As far as were concerned, russian culture can follow the direction of the russian military ship. I do not understand this discussion about their culture at all. My compatriots are dying at the front, millions of refugees, whole cities have been and still are being destroyed - that's what you need to think about first of all, that's what really concerns all of us.

russian military "liberators" steal toilets, washing machines, lingerie - that's a real russian culture. And will these non-humans still teach us how to live?

The occupiers - we are all in shock  do not just use colloquial language, they are talking to their mothers and wives using russian mat (obscene language). Their mothers and wives are no better.

putin is a fucking genius of politics  everything he does has the opposite result. After the russian aggression and Bucha, Ukraine naturally turned from a neutral country into one hostile to russia.

NATO and the United States have strengthened, and russia has weakened and become isolated as a result of military setbacks and economic sanctions. Well done, mr. putin, continue in the same way.

russian propaganda: Ukrainian Nazis are destroying their own civilians and their cities. Surprisingly, if there was no war, we would all be living peacefully; no one destroyed Ukrainian cities with Ukrainian artillery, they went to theatre performances, and did not have to hide in bomb shelters.

5. About allies and allies.

Old Europe is fluctuating along with its general line. Today they declare the need to preserve putin's face and Ukraine's territorial concessions to russia, tomorrow they will give heavy attacking weapons for the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The day after tomorrow, the truth will become clear that this weapon is not available; it must be produced, perhaps by the end of the year, or possibly later.

Boris Johnson (actually Johnsoniuk) is a real bro to us.

The United States was not thinking for a long time, and applied the experience that had already successfully worked during the Second World War, adopting a special law on land lease for Ukraine. Now military equipment and weapons must flow into Ukraine like a mighty river.

We need them on time, however. It is not easy for our men who are fighting heroically in the East of Ukraine right now.

Glory to Ukraine!

With the beginning of russia's unprovoked aggression against Ukraine, experts of the project Information Defence of Ukraine prepare daily reviews of the military-political situation in Ukraine in Ukrainian , English and Russian . The first review was released on February 26th. Experts moderate the Telegram channel Information Defence of Ukraine . All project experts work free of charge from February 24th to May 29th, 2022 exclusively as volunteers. This is a team of professional analysts who need your support. Negotiations with donors are underway. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine has provided a letter of support for this important initiative. Today we need your help.

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Egypt seeks scientific, technical and pharmaceutical partnership with Africa to localise all types of coronavirus vaccines, Egypt's Presidential Adviser for Health Affairs Mohamed Awad Tag El-Din said.
Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi said on Tuesday that multilateral cooperation is important for strengthening the world's unity and solidarity in facing extraordinary challenges.
As soon as they had finished burying a veteran colonel killed by Russian shelling, the cemetery workers readied the next hole. Inevitably, given how quickly death is felling Ukrainian troops on the front lines, the empty grave won't stay that way for long.

Col. Oleksandr Makhachek left behind a widow, Elena, and their daughters Olena and Myroslava-Oleksandra. In the first 100 days of war, his grave was the 40th that the diggers have dug in the military cemetery in Zhytomyr, 90 miles (140 kilometers) west of the capital, Kyiv.

He was killed May 30 in the Luhansk region of eastern Ukraine where the fighting is raging. Nearby, the burial notice on the also freshly dug grave of Viacheslav Dvornitskyi says he died May 27. Other graves also showed soldiers killed within days of each other _ on May 10, 9th, 7th and 5th. And this is just one cemetery, in just one of Ukraine's cities, towns and villages laying soldiers to rest.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said this week that Ukraine is now losing 60 to 100 soldiers each day in combat. By way of comparison, just short of 50 American soldiers died per day on average in 1968 during the Vietnam War's deadliest year for U.S. forces.

Among the comrades-in-arms who paid respects to Makhachek at his funeral on Friday was Gen. Viktor Muzhenko, the Armed Forces' chief of general staff until 2019. He warned that losses could worsen.

``This is one of the critical moments in the war, but it is not the peak,'' he told The Associated Press. ``This is the most significant conflict in Europe since World War II. That explains why the losses are so great. In order to reduce losses, Ukraine now needs powerful weapons that match or even surpass Russian weaponry. This would enable Ukraine to respond in kind.''

Concentrations of Russian artillery are causing many of the casualties in the eastern regions that Moscow has focused on since its initial invasion launched Feb. 24 failed to take Kyiv.

Retired Lt. Gen. Ben Hodges, the former commanding general of U.S. Army forces in Europe, described the Russian strategy as a ``medieval attrition approach`` and said that until Ukraine gets promised deliveries of U.S., British and other weapons to destroy and disrupt Russian batteries, ``these kinds of casualties are going to continue.''

``This battlefield is so much more lethal than what we all became accustomed to over the 20 years of Iraq and Afghanistan, where we didn't have numbers like this,`` he said in an AP phone interview.

``That level of attrition would include leaders, sergeants,'' he added. ``They are a lot of the brunt of casualties because they are the more exposed, constantly moving around trying to do things.''

Makhachek, who was 49, was killed in a village in the eastern Luhansk region. A military engineer, he'd been leading a detachment that laid minefields and other defenses, said Col. Ruslan Shutov, a friend of more than 30 years who attended his funeral.

``Once the shelling began, he and a group hid in a shelter. There were four people in his group, and he told them to hide in the dugout. He hid in another. Unfortunately, an artillery shell hit the dugout where he was hiding.``

Ukraine had about 250,000 men and women in uniform before the war and was in the process of adding another 100,000. The government hasn't said how many have been killed in the first 100 days of fighting. Nobody really knows how many combatants or civilians have died on both sides, and claims of casualties by government officials _ who may sometimes be exaggerating or lowballing their figures for public relations reasons _ are all but impossible to verify.

Still, as Ukraine's losses mount, the grim mathematics of war require that it find replacements. With a population of 43 million, it has manpower.

``The problem is recruiting, training and getting them on the front line,'' said retired U.S. Marine Col. Mark Cancian, a senior adviser at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington.

``If the war is now moving into a long-term attrition struggle, then you have to build systems to get replacements,'' he said. ``This has been a difficult moment for every army in combat.''

Muzhenko, the Ukrainian general, said Zelenskyy's admission of high casualties would further galvanize Ukrainian morale and that more Western weaponry would help turn the tide.

``The more Ukrainians know about what is happening at the front, the more the will to resist will grow,`` he said. ``Yes, the losses are significant. But with the help of our allies, we can minimize and reduce them and move on to successful offensives. This will require powerful weapons.''

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Ukraine said Saturday its forces were managing to push back against Russian troops in fierce fighting in Severodonetsk despite Russia "throwing all its power" into capturing the strategic eastern city.

At least seven civilians were reported killed in the Lugansk region where Severodonetsk is located and in the southern city of Mykolaiv, while a revered wooden church was reported to be on fire because of the fighting.

Lugansk regional governor Sergiy Gaiday said in an interview posted online that the invading forces had captured most of Severodonetsk, but that the Ukrainian military was pushing them back.

"The Russian army, as we understand, is throwing all its power, all its reserves in this direction," said Gaiday, who on Friday claimed Ukrainian troops had managed to win back a fifth of the city.

Russia's army however claimed some Ukrainian military units were withdrawing from the city.

The press service of Ukraine's presidential office said that "street fighting" was continuing in Severodonetsk and "assault operations are underway" in an industrial part of the city.

Severodonetsk is the largest city still in Ukrainian hands in the Lugansk region, where Russian forces have been gradually advancing in recent weeks after retreating or being repelled from other areas, including around the capital Kyiv.

Thousands of people have been killed, millions forced to flee and towns turned into rubble since Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered an all-out assault on his pro-Western neighbour on February 24.

Western powers have slapped increasingly stringent sanctions on Russia and supplied arms to Ukraine but divisions have emerged on how to react.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday said Putin had committed a "fundamental error" but said Russia should not be "humiliated" so that a diplomatic solution could be found.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba reacted on Saturday saying such calls "only humiliate France" and any country taking a similar position.

"It is Russia that humiliates itself. We all better focus on how to put Russia in its place. This will bring peace and save lives," he said.

Foreign volunteers killed

Regardless of diplomatic efforts, the conflict has raged in the south and east of the country.

Ukrainian officials on Saturday announced the death of four foreign military volunteers fighting Russian forces but did not specify when or under what circumstances they died.

The International Legion of Defence of Ukraine, an official volunteer brigade, named the men and published photos of them, saying they were from Germany, the Netherlands, Australia and France.

The deaths of the two men named from the Netherlands and Australia had already been reported and France's foreign ministry on Friday said a French volunteer fighter had been killed in combat.

Ukraine also reported two victims from a Russian missile strike on Odessa in the southwest, without specifying if they were dead or injured.

Russia's defence ministry said it had struck a "deployment point for foreign mercenaries" in the village of Dachne in the Odessa region.

It also claimed a missile strike in the northeastern Sumy region on an artillery training centre with "foreign instructors".

Apart from the human toll, the conflict has caused widespread damage to Ukraine's cultural heritage.

On Saturday, Ukrainian officials reported that a large Orthodox wooden church, a popular pilgrim site, was on fire and blamed Russian forces.

Russia continues to prove "its inability to be part of the civilized world," Culture Minister Oleksandr Tkachenko said in a statement.

Russia's defence ministry blamed "Ukrainian nationalists" for the blaze and said its forces were not operating in the area.

The church was built in 2009 on the site of another church that was blown up in 1947.

Grain exports 'no problem'?

Russian troops now occupy a fifth of Ukraine's territory and Moscow has imposed a blockade on its Black Sea ports.

The blockade has sparked fears of a global food crisis since Ukraine and Russia are among the top wheat exporters in the world.

The United Nations said it was leading intense negotiations with Russia to allow Ukraine's grain harvest to leave the country.

Putin in a televised interview Friday said there was "no problem" to export grain from Ukraine, via Kyiv- or Moscow-controlled ports or even through central Europe.

The UN has warned that African countries, which normally import more than half of their wheat consumption from Ukraine and Russia, face an "unprecedented" crisis.

Food prices in Africa have already exceeded those in the aftermath of the 2011 Arab Spring uprisings and the 2008 food riots.

On Friday, Putin met the head of the African Union, Senegalese President Macky Sall, at his Black Sea residence in Sochi.

After the meeting, Sall said he was "very reassured", adding that Putin was "committed and aware that the crisis and sanctions create serious problems for weak economies".

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Here are the latest developments in the war in Ukraine.

Russia says Ukraine withdrawing from key city

Russia's army says Ukrainian military units are withdrawing from the key city of Severodonetsk in eastern Ukraine.

"Some units of the Ukrainian army, having suffered critical losses during fighting for Severodonetsk, are pulling out towards Lysychansk," Severodonetsk's twin city, which sits just across a river, the defence ministry says.

It adds however that some Ukrainian fighters are still in the city.

Gaining control of Severodonetsk would give Russia de-facto control of Lugansk, one of two regions along with Donetsk that make up the Donbas.

Russia claims it sent forces into Ukraine on February 24 to defend residents of two self-proclaimed Russian-backed statelets, the Donetsk and Lugansk People's Republics.

Russia 'throwing all its power' at Severodonetsk

Ukraine says Russia is using all its available forces to capture Severodonetsk in a bid to control the entire eastern Donbas region.

"The situation in the region as a whole is extremely difficult. Fighting is now concentrated in Severodonetsk because, as we understand it, the Russian army is throwing all its power, all its reserves in this direction," Lugansk regional governor Sergiy Gaiday says.

He says that once equipped with Western long-range weapons, Ukrainian forces "will push their artillery back... and then Russian infantry will run" from the region.

Ukraine blames Russia for blaze at revered church

A wooden Orthodox church on one of Ukraine's most sacred Orthodox sites was set ablaze, church authorities say, amid fierce fighting in the Donbas.

"As a result of hostilities, a large-scale fire broke out on the territory of the All Saints Skete of the Holy Dormition Sviatogirsk Lavra," they say.

"The flames completely engulfed the main church of the monastery," a statement adds.

Ukrainian Culture Minister Oleksandr Tkachenko blames Russian forces for the blaze. He says about 300 displaced Ukrainians had been seeking shelter there, including 60 children.

Russia continues "to prove its inability to be part of the civilised world," he says in the statement condemning the attack.

Russia's defence ministry says its military was not conducting operations in the region.

The facility is seen as one of the three most sacred sites in Ukraine for Orthodox believers. Before the war, it drew thousands of pilgrims a year.

Ukraine slams Macron over call for diplomacy

Kyiv criticises comments by French President Emmanuel Macron, who repeated that Moscow should not be humiliated to improve chances of diplomatically resolving the war in Ukraine.

"Calls to avoid the humiliation of Russia can only humiliate France and every other country that would call for it," Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba says.

Russia instead should be "put in its place", to "bring peace and save lives".

Macron in an interview Friday restated his long-held position that Russia should not be "humiliated... so that the day the fighting stops we can pave a way out through diplomatic means".

Macron also said his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin committed a "historic and fundamental error" by invading Ukraine.

AU head 'reassured' on food shortages

African Union head Macky Sall says he is "reassured" after talks with Putin on food shortages caused by Moscow's military campaign in Ukraine.

Putin hosted the Senegalese president, who chairs the African Union, at his Black Sea residence in Sochi.

Putin says there is "no problem" to export grain from Ukraine, and it can be done via Ukrainian ports, via others under Russian control, or even through central Europe.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov is expected in Turkey next Wednesday for talks on creating a "security corridor" to unblock exports from Ukraine.

French Open champion makes emotional peace plea

Iga Swiatek receives a standing ovation at Roland Garros with an emotional "stay strong Ukraine" peace plea after winning her second French Open title.

The 21-year-old Pole was speaking after a speedy win over Coco Gauff in only 68 minutes in Paris.

"I wanted to say something to Ukraine, to stay strong, because the war is still there," says Swiatek who has worn a ribbon in the colours of the Ukraine flag on her cap throughout the tournament.

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By Trend





The President of Turkmenistan signed documents on the allocation of $ 150 million to support entrepreneurs in the country and another $ 150 million to the Ministry of Trade and Foreign Economic Relations for the purchase of essential products, Trend reports citing Orient.

The head of state announced this decision at a joint meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers and the State Security Council on Saturday. The meeting summed up the results of the socio-economic development of Turkmenistan in January-May, set priorities and made personnel decisions.

The Head of State called for controlling the disbursement of public funds, creating favorable conditions for business development and attracting foreign direct investment, and preventing food prices from rising.
Dar Al-Ifta, Egypt's official body responsible for issuing religious edicts, will hold an international conference in Cairo this week on confronting religious extremism.

Officials from more than 45 countries will attend the conference, which will be held on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, Dar Al-Ifta said in a statement.

Salam Centre for Studies of Extremism, a research unit affiliated with Dar Al-Ifta, will organise the meeting in Cairo under the patronage of Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly with the presence of Egypt's Grand Mufti and President of the General Secretariat for Fatwa Authorities Worldwide Shawki Allam

Among the speakers in the conference will be Minister of Religious endowments Mohamed Mokhtar Gomaa, Minister of Justice Omar Marwan, Advisor to the President for Religious Affairs Osama Al-Azhari, head of the Religious Affairs Committee Ali Gomaa, and director of the UN Counterterrorism Centre (UNCCT) and the Office of Counterterrorism Jehangir Khan.

It will also be attended by a host of public figures, researchers and experts representing several Islamic and international institutions and organizations, including the muftis of a number of other countries, and UN officials.

The conference will be witnessing a presentation of the Egyptian experience in confronting terrorism and extremism as well as that of other countries including the US, the UK, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, as well as a number of European countries, Allam said in previous remarks.

The conference's message is introducing scientific initiatives to combat extremism as well as enhancing cooperation and coordination among research institutions and experts in this respect.

Under the theme Intellectual Foundation and Confrontation Strategies, the conference will respond to extremist-related concepts and ideologies used to justify crimes. It will also discuss the value of peace, coexistence, and understanding among peoples and civilizations.

Moreover, the event will seek to enhance international cooperation, exchange experiences in combating extremism, and widen horizons for research and academic cooperation, according to a statement by the centre.

The conference, which is the first international conference held by Salam Centre for Studies of Extremism, will also include several workshops with the participation of several figures representing international, Arab, and Islamic organizations and institutions.

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Five European Union nations on the Mediterranean who fear possible waves of refugees driven by hunger out of Africa called Saturday for an end to the EU's ``voluntary'' solidarity on migrants and a better way to redistribute the burden of caring for them.

The Interior ministers from Italy, Cyprus, Greece, Malta and Spain wrapped up two days of talks in Venice amid worries that the blockade of Ukraine grain exports due to Russia's invasion could see huge numbers of refugees from Africa flooding southern Europe.

Cypriot Interior Minister Nicos Nouris told reporters that robust, common EU policy is needed on migration. ``Solidarity is not a slogan, nor can it be void of substance,'' Nouris said.

Past EU policies in which member countries could offer to receive some of the hundreds of thousands of migrants landing in Italy, Greece and other southern shores proved grossly inadequate.

Many EU countries didn't step forward. Others, even with they did pledge to receive modest numbers of some of the hundreds of thousands of migrants rescued from smugglers' unseaworthy boats, didn't follow through.

``Solidarity in our mind cannot be voluntary,'' Nouris said.

He noted that after several years of Cyprus taking in migrants, now 5% of the eastern Mediterranean island nation's population consists of asylum-seekers.

The meeting did not address the millions of Ukrainian refugees who recently flooded into northern EU nations like Poland, Hungary and Romania.

How Europe handles large numbers of migrants takes on particular urgency now, amid fears that drought in Africa and surging food prices even before the war made shipping Ukrainian grain to Somalia, Egypt and other poor nations impossible could drive up the already alarmingly numbers of hungry people.

In the Sahel, the part of Africa just below the Sahara desert, an estimated 18 million people are facing severe hunger as farmers endure their worst production season in more than a decade.

Italian Interior Minister Luciana Lamorgese cited the blocking of grain in Ukraine as just another reason for the EU to develop a ``adequate mechanism of distributing migrants'' among its members.

She also pressed for more repatriation agreements with countries whose people are seeking a better life in Europe but had their asylum bids rejected since they are fleeing poverty, not war or persecution.

Italy has an effective repatriation agreement with Tunisia, but not with most other countries in Africa or in Asia whose citizens take to smugglers' boats to try to reach southern European shores. As a result, even though their asylum applications fail, many migrants remain in Italy, often taking illegal jobs or resorting to begging.

Greece's interior minister expressed support for more legal paths for migration.

``We cannot let smugglers decide who comes to live in Europe,'' minister Notis Mitarachi told reporters.

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West African leaders said on Sunday they were maintaining sanctions on Mali but could lift them if its military rulers speeded up plans to hand back power to civilians.

The comment came one day after the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) met to decide how to deal with Mali, Burkina Faso and Guinea, where the military has seized power and does not plan to allow a return to civilian rule for several years.

All three nations are currently suspended from the 15-nation ECOWAS, which imposed strict economic and financial sanctions on Mali in January and is threatening to do likewise to Burkina and Guinea.

Saturday's summit failed to reach a decision, which has now been pushed back to the next ECOWAS summit, on July 3.

On Sunday, the African leaders issued a statement saying they would "uphold" the punitive measures imposed on Mali on January 9 but continue talking to the junta in Bamako "with a view to reaching an agreement to ensure a gradual lifting of the sanctions".

This, they said, would depend on the junta accelerating the transition to democratic rule. The military initially said it would hold on to power for five years but after ECOWAS imposed sanctions reduced that to two.

ECOWAS says the army must leave office within a maximum of 16 months.

In the statement, the region's leaders again demanded Burkina and Guinea come up with "an acceptable transition timetable". Both military regimes plan to cling to power for three years.

A source said Saturday's summit in the Ghanaian capital, Accra, had been "particularly" divided over Mali.

ECOWAS sanctions have exacerbated the economic and social crises gripping landlocked Mali, one of the poorest countries in the world, and had a ripple effect on its neighbours.

Several participants said the war in Ukraine was adding to the strains on African economies.

"Our objective has always been to find ways to help these countries return to constitutional order," Ghana's President Nana Akufo-Addo said on Saturday.

Instability

West Africa has seen a succession of military coups in the past two years. There were two in Mali -- in August 2020 and May 2021 -- followed by one in Guinea in September 2021 and another in Burkina in January 2022.

ECOWAS, keen to stop the political instability spreading, has held several summits since 2020 and piled pressure on the three.

But the military presidents -- Mali's Colonel Assimi Goita, Guinea's Colonel Mamady Doumbouya and Burkina's Lieutenant-Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba -- have all resisted that pressure.

They say their countries are facing severe domestic crises -- including jihadist insurgencies -- and they need "transition periods" to rebuild their states before they can organise elections.

At its summit in March, ECOWAS gave Burkina and Guinea until April 25 to come up with an acceptable transition timetable or face immediate economic and financial sanctions.

But after sending a team to Burkina in late May, at the request of the junta, the bloc delayed any sanctions decision, noting on Sunday its "serious concern about the deteriorating humanitarian situation".

Unlike Mali and Burkina, Guinea is not battling a jihadist insurrection but public discontent with the junta is rising.

ECOWAS voiced alarm at the growing social and political tensions, and urged the military regime to "desist from any arbitrary act that undermines the rule of law".

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Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry said on Sunday in a meeting with Virginia Gamba, special representative of the UN Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict, that Egypt gives top priority to the rights of children and providing them with protection against abuse and violence.

During the meeting in Cairo, Shoukry discussed with Gamba the steps taken by the Egyptian government to protect and boost childrens rights through the framework of motherhood and childhood, which is part of the Egypt Vision 2030, according to the Egyptian foreign ministry.

Shoukry also referred to the role of Egypts National Strategy for Human Rights, launched in 2021 under the auspices of President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi, which features a whole section dedicated to childrens rights.

The two officials also discussed the increasing negative impacts and consequences of armed conflicts on children especially during the coronavirus pandemic and the current worldwide food crisis, adding that these developments demand more international cooperation.

The Egyptian foreign minister asserted that Egypt supports all efforts to protect children during armed conflicts.

He added that Egypt is ready to boost its cooperation with the office of the UN Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict, offering the capabilities of the Cairo International Centre for Conflict Resolution, Peacekeeping and Peacebuilding (CCCPA) and the Headquarters of the African Union Centre for Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Development (PCRD).

Both Shoukry and Gamba agreed to increase cooperation between Egypt and the UN special representative to protect childrens rights during armed conflicts.

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The National Committee for the Repatriation of Stolen and Smuggled Antiquities met Sunday to discuss several issues, chief among which was the latest work to repatriate stolen and illegally smuggled antiquities.

Shaaban Abdel-Gawad, supervisor general of the Antiquities Repatriation Department, said that the committee discussed the ongoing investigation by French authorities into the former president of the Louvre Museum in Paris.

Almost two weeks ago, the former president was charged with conspiring to hide the origin of Egyptian archaeological treasures that investigators suspect were spirited out of the country during the 2011 Revolution, a French judicial source told the AFP.

The committee noted that the government has been following up the issue with French authorities since 2020, when the case was first brought before a French judge, adding that the government would continue to take all necessary procedures to retrieve any artefact proven to have left the country illegally.

He pointed out that Egypt has in recent years succeeded in recovering 5,000 artefacts from the US, 115 from France, and 36 from Spain.

During the meeting, the committee also reviewed preparations for the international conference titled "Cairo for the Protection of Cultural Heritage: Global Measures to Disrupt Chains of Illicit Trafficking and Protect Cultural Property," which Egypt will host in cooperation with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, UNESCO and ISESCO.

The committee is chaired by Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Khaled El-Enany.

Other members include former Antiquities Minister Zahi Hawass and representatives from the foreign and justice ministries, Public Prosecution and other concerned authorities.

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The Arab-Hellenic Chamber of Commerce and Development (AHCCD) in Athens held on Saturday in the Greek capital a Greek-Egyptian business gathering to discuss the current level of investment and potential opportunities between Egypt and Greece.

Ambassador of Egypt to Greece Ismail Khairat, Secretary General of the Arab-Hellenic Chamber of commerce and development (AHCCD) Rashad Mabger, and President of the Greek community in Cairo Christos Cavallis attended the conference.

Among the prominent attendees were Harris Geronikolas, Chairman of the Board of Directors at AHCCD, George Amiras, Deputy Minister of Environment and Energy of Greece, Giannis Plakiotakis, Minister of Maritime and Island Policy, Sara Al-Gazzar, Dean of College of International Transportation and Logistics at the Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime transport (AASTMT), Saleh Gallad, publisher of Middle East Economic survey, board member of AHCCD and financial consultant at Consolidated Contractors Company, and Maria Louisa Marinakis, Ambassador, Director General for International Economic Relations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Greece.

The gathering discussed the scope of the joint mega project of electrical inter-connectivity, the role of the private sector in the project, and the Egyptian and Greek experiences in alternative and sustainable energy.

The discussion included the potential investments in ship building and dry dock maintenance through the recent technological developments in maritime industry, logistics, and port services. It also discussed the issue of food security taking into account the Egyptian and Greek positive strides in the food processing industry, agricultural technology, and fish farming, as well as Greece's experience with organic food.

Egypt and Greece have maintained strong cultural and historical ties. Recent developments in bilateral ties reflect both countries vision in cooperating in managing large projects and other important business ventures, according to Mabgar.

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Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry said on Sunday in a video call with his Tanzanian counterpart Librata Mula Mula that Egypt is keen to continue providing support to Tanzania in various fields, the Egyptian foreign ministry stated.

Both ministers discussed various aspects of bilateral relations and other issues of common concern as well as historical Egyptian-Tanzanian relations, highlighting their steady development following President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi's visit to Dar es-Salaam in August 2017, and the visit of President Samia Hassan to Cairo in November 2021.

During the call, Shoukry reiterated Egypt's support for various development efforts in Tanzania including Egyptian projects in the country, as well as expressing a desire to explore opportunities for more Egyptian investment to enter the Tanzanian economy.

Egypt has been engaged in several development projects in the country. In December, Tanzania inaugurated the first phase of Egypts Elsewedy Industrial Complex in Dar es-Salaam worth $35 million.

The same month, Egypts housing minister inspected the $2.9 billion Julius Nyerere Hydroelectric Power Project (JNHPP) being constructed by an Egyptian consortium.

The two ministers agreed to continue to activate meetings of the joint committee to enhance bilateral cooperation in all fields, the ministry added in its statement.

Sameh Shoukry, the president-designate of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP27) set to be held in Sharm El-Sheikh in November, noted during the video call that Egypt is keen to address African concerns pertaining to climate change.

Egypt is also looking forward to the highest-level Tanzanian participation in the conference activities, he added.

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Egypt will donate 30 million doses of coronavirus vaccines to African countries, President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi announced on Sunday while addressing Africa Health ExCon, the first African health conference, which is being held in the Egyptian capital Cairo.

El-Sisi said this initiative will be coordinated through the African Union, and he expressed Egypts readiness to cooperate with African nations in different domains, saying we are not a state with huge resources, but we can cooperate with Africa and all world as well.

The cooperation can extend to training programmes, education, treatment, transfer or exchange of expertise, and drug manufacturing, El-Sisi pointed out.

Running till Tuesday, Africa Health ExCon kicked off earlier today at Al-Manara International Conference Centre in New Cairo.

Around 2,000 delegates representing government health entities from Africa and the Middle East are participating in the conference, which is organised by the Egyptian Authority for Unified Procurement (UPA) and is the biggest medical exhibition and conference on the continent.

Over 350 companies operating in more than 102 countries are also taking part in the conference, and will be unveiling the latest medical technologies and outlining the best practices for sustainable healthcare on the continent.

During his speech, El-Sisi told drug companies that Africa represents "a promising" market, as its population is expected to hit 2.5 billion in 20-30 years, up from 1.3 billion at present.

The president stressed that a shortage of resources in Africa is no obstacle to achieving goals or addressing besetting challenges as long as there is a "relentless" will and resolve.

El-Sisi also reviewed the Egyptian efforts in handling medical challenges, saying that those who suffer a lack of resource and scarcity of money have nothing but ideas.

The country's economic resources don't allow offering health care for over 100 million citizens at global standards, but these circumstances have never demotivated the country, which sought over the past few years for other alternatives.

Egypt, he noted, has launched several initiatives to solve certain problems, including the 100 Million Health initiative and its subgoal of the early detection of Hepatitis C virus, which until recently was one the country's biggest public health threats.

The 100 Million Health Initiative was launched in 2018 to screen and eliminate hepatitis and non-communicable diseases. In July 2020, the country announced it was free of Hepatitis C.

Egypt also has launched a national campaign to decease the waiting time for patients awaiting state-funded surgeries and critical medical interventions, noting that the country has performed around 1.3 million surgeries at an average cost of EGP 100,000-400,000.

Egypt may not be able to roll out inclusive health insurance in a short space of time, but it seeks to do so within 10 years as scheduled in the country's Universal Health Insurance System.

The six-phase healthcare scheme, launched experimentally in 2018 in five governorates, is set to be completed nationwide by 2027, with the second phase kicking off between 2021 and 2023.

As for water challenges, El-Sisi said Egypt's share of water, which amounts to 55 billion cubic meters annually, has never changed over time, even since Egypt's population was only 3 or 4 million people.

Egypt has never been in conflict with fellow African countries to increase this share, but has rather focused on initiatives to maximise its water resources, including water treatment programmes, the president added.

Egypt is working on providing alternative sources of drinking water through desalination in coastal governorates and the reuse of treated water.

In September 2021, Egypt inaugurated the water treatment plant of Bahr Al-Baqar, the largest of its kind worldwide, at a cost of EGP 20 billion and with a production capacity of 5.6 million cubic metres per day.

Egypt will be the number one or two country in the world in maximising its water resources, El-Sisi noted.

Challenges have never been obstacles, but opportunities, and Africa is able to surpass any problem, the president stressed.

El-Sisi also spoke about the importance of maintaining stability, asserting that the only challenge that cripples any state is instability and insecurity. He also stressed that losing security and stability in any country diminishes investment opportunities.

No company would venture to invest in an unstable country for fear of destruction or sabotage to its infrastructure, El-Sisi explained, noting that even the state itself would not be capable of providing infrastructure projects and so the state would plunge into an endless cycle of crises and suffering.

The conference will include 350 sessions and 20 workshops featuring more than 800 international medical speakers and experts, with the aim of showcasing the latest technologies in the field of medicine as well as initiatives that support Africa ExCon as a sustainable platform that connects international healthcare partners.

Also attending are Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and acting Health Minister Khaled Abdel-Ghaffar, and Presidential Advisor for Health Affairs Mohamed Awad Tag El-Din.

Africa Health ExCon will help put Egypt on track to becoming Africas health technology hub, said Bahaa El-Din Zidan, chairman of the UPA.

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Professor Raymond Schinazi, the inventor of the hepatitis C drug Sovaldi, spoke to Ahram Online about his collaboration with the Egyptian government over the past few years and the countrys unprecedented success in treating millions of hepatitis C patients.

Professor Schinazi saluted President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisis efforts making the testing and treatment of the disease a national priority and for helping African nations to overcome the disease.

Ahram Online: Would you please tell us about the purpose of your visit to Cairo?

Raymond Schinazi: As you know I was born and raised in Egypt; I have Egyptian culture in my veins and I am always happy to come back whenever I am invited. I am here this time for the Africa Health ExCon. This an important event for Egypt and Africa; that is why even with the COVID pandemic I decided to come and give a talk in the conference. I hope during my visit, I can talk with the pharmaceutical companies and see how I can help to diversify access to new COVID treatments. Recently my lab invented a drug that is called Baricitinib; it is an anti-inflammatory agent and it is approved for treating COVID in the US and the world. This drug is used for the patients who are on oxygen and treated in hospitals

AO: How do you see misleading information about the origin of COVID and the arguments about the vaccine efficacy?

RS: First of all, the origin of the COVID virus has been found in nature not in laboratory. It does not really matter who is responsible for the pandemic, the key thing is that the researchers are collaborating globally. Currently, the available solutions are vaccines that have short durability but have saved lives. There are also several new drugs that are effective in curing people and reducing health complications.

AO: How do you see the Egyptian journey in fighting hepatitis C since the FDA approval of your drug Sovaldi in 2013 till now?

RS: When I came to visit Egypt in 2013, I was invited by the government to discuss how we could solve the problem of hepatitis C specially with the advent of Sovaldi that my lab invented and we sold it to Gilead pharmaceutics. At that time the drug was extremely expensive (more than $64,000 per treatment). I helped the government to negotiate with Gilead to reduce the price of the treatment to $1,000. Then I worked with an Egyptian company and shared some of the chemicals which lead to locally producing the generic drug of Sovaldi which was excellent as a quality drug. This step helped to reduce the pricing of the treatment. Fortunately, the pharmaceutical industry in Egypt came to the rescue and produced high quality generic drugs which led to price reduction to nearly $100 and the treatment became much more accessible in Egypt.

The real brilliance of what has been achieved here is due to the vision of President El-Sisi. He realised very early that he has a solution to a major problem. President El-Sisi has done a magnificent job by making hepatitis c testing and treatment a priority in Egypt. He also promoted health campaigns in Egypt and Africa. I raise my hat to him for doing what other governments have not done. The concept of test and treat that Egypt implemented was very important to cure millions of citizens of hepatitis c and I am very proud for being part of that national success.

AO: What would you say about the members of the national committee for control of viral hepatitis?

RS: They were the iceberg breakers; they are passionate about their work and they really care about the children and the patients with hepatitis c. The doctors who implemented that program are national heroes. That project is a lighthouse for the rest of the world. The success of implementing a large-scale program for curing patients has not been done before. This is the first time in the history of human beings that such a program has been implemented to cure millions of citizens with an antiviral drug. The country Georgia is following the footsteps of the Egyptian committee to treat their patients, some states in America like Louisiana are beginning a health program for hepatitis c similar to what has been done in Egypt.

AO: What should be the current role of that committee after disease elimination?

RS: I think the most important step now is to make sure that the younger generation is not infected with the virus, through screening programs in schools and treating them as quickly as possible. It is important as well to screen and treat the families of the infected children. Highly vulnerable groups like doctors, dentists and patients who regularly visit hospitals should be tested and treated if they were found positive. That step will reduce any new infections. Egypt should develop its own diagnostic tests that are reliable and robust which allows any person to go into a pharmacy and check if he or she is positive or not. This is something that can be done very quickly and as you know, there is no vaccine for hepatitis c, so to save lives and reduce the viral progression and transmission, people should test themselves and get their treatment.

AO: Why is there no vaccine for hepatitis C?

RS: It is very hard to develop such a vaccine. There is a tremendous number of mutations, it is much more difficult than what we see now with COVID. Scientists tried several times to create vaccines but all of them failed. It is not expected to create a vaccine any time soon, that is why the drug is the only way now to treat patients.

AO: Currently, there are local studies about treating children with hepatitis c, four years and older, what is your take on that?

RS: I love that approach; it breaks a lot of taboos that were in the old days about the negative impact of antiviral drugs on sick children and pregnant women. Now, we treat them and we are able to reduce viral transmission from mother to child for a disease like HIV to zero. I am quite sure that if we adjust the doses and treat the children, we reduce the propagation of the disease and the possible health complications. Same with COVID, if we facilitate the access to vaccination and treatment for everybody especially in the poorer nations, we will be able to suppress the virus and its mutations because dead viruses do not mutate.

-------------------------

Raymond Schinazi is an American medicinal chemist with expertise in pharmacology, and biotechnology. He was born in 1950 in Alexandria. In 1964, his family immigrated to Naples, Italy. He received his PhD in Chemistry and DSc in Biotechnology from the University of Bath, England. His research focuses on developing treatments for viral diseases like HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C.

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Finland and Sweden are preparing for an enlarged NATO naval exercise in the Baltic Sea on Sunday, Trend reports citing Euronews.

NATO's fortnight-long 'Baltops 22' is being hosted this year by Sweden, with the Finnish Navy and Air force also taking part.

Military leaders have suggested it is no coincidence the NATO military drill is larger than in previous years.

US Commander, Vice Admiral Eugene Black, told reporters Saturday: "The exercise this year is probably about 30 per cent bigger than last year.

"45 ships, 76 aircraft, 16 nations - 14 of them NATO allies, and two very close partners" will be involved, he added.

"The aim of the exercise is to develop the interoperability of the United States, Nato and partner countries in joint air and maritime operations and amphibious operations," the Finnish Defence Forces said in a statement on Wednesday.

Around 200 Finish Navy personnel will join the exercise from 5 to 17 June.

Both Sweden and Finland have reversed traditional policies of neutrality by making bids to join the 30-member defensive alliance,




Egypts Minister of Justice Omar Marwan issued a decree on Sunday ordering the formation of a legal and judicial expert committee to draft a balanced personal law for Muslims in Egypt within four months.

According to the decree, which is based upon President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisis directive, the committee is headed by Judge Abdel-Rahman Hanafi, the president of Tanta Court of Cassation, and is composed of ten judges, mostly from family courts.

The committee includes two women, Judge Dalia Ibrahim and Judge Amina Ismail.

The committee is assigned to draft a law that minimises judicial conflicts.

The four month deadline may be extended, according to the justice minister.

The committee will receive suggestions regarding amendments to the personal law through email ([email protected]) over the next 15 days.

The committee will hold its meetings at the Ministry of Justice in Cairo and will be aided by a number of administrative employees in the ministry, the decree said. It has also the right to request all the statistical data and information from official institutions in Egypt for drafting the law

The head of the committee is to form an advisory committee from specialists to ask for its counsel in the matters of personal law issues including medical, social, financial, religious and other issues.

On Saturday, President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi held a meeting in Cairo with Justice Minister Omar Marwan where he urged the formation of a committee of legal and judicial experts specialised in family courts and lawsuits to enact a balanced personal status draft law for Muslims.

El-Sisis directives come less than a month after he highlighted an urgent need for a new balanced personal status law in Egypt to solve family issues honestly and impartially amid a sharp increase in divorce rate in the country.

The parliament has been under pressure over the past years to pass a new personal status law that regulates marriage, divorce, engagement, guardianship and custody.

A draft personal status law submitted to the parliament by the government in February last year was reportedly recalled for review amid controversy stirred by several parts of the draft bill.

In March 2021, the president said that the government is keen to see that any new law would be balanced and served the publics interest.

Egypts Islamic authority, Al-Azhar, also presented during the same time a draft bill for the personal status law, which also has not been passed.

Judge Abdullah El-Baga, the current president of Cairo Appeals Court and the former president of the Family Appeals Court, has said both draft bills were full of legal gaps due to the stretchy words in the text which led to their eventual failure to be issued as laws.

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Top US General Mark Milley said Saturday that the United States is determined to support Sweden and Finland as the countries pursue NATO membership, a statement underscored by his visit to the USS Kearsarge after it became the largest US warship ever to dock in Stockholm.

"It's important for us, the United States, and it's important for the other NATO countries to show solidarity with both Finland and Sweden in this exercise," Milley said ahead of NATO's annual Baltic Sea naval manoeuvres.

He was speaking during a joint press conference with Swedish Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson.

The "Baltops 22" naval exercise -- set to run from June 5 to 17 and involve 14 NATO countries as well as Sweden and Finland -- takes place this year in the shadow of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

That invasion prompted the two Nordic countries to reverse decades of military nonalignment and apply for NATO membership.

The presence in Stockholm of the USS Kearsarge, an amphibious assault ship designed to deploy land forces, "demonstrates commitment in a common cause, in the rules-based international order, in the idea that large countries cannot invade small countries at no cost," said Milley, the chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Andersson in turn said the presence in the Swedish capital of the imposing 250-metre-long (840-foot) vessel -- with a full complement of helicopters and some 1,200 Marines aboard -- "is a concrete expression of the US support and also a very strong political signal at a crucial time in history".

"It also shows that the security assurances that President Biden was very outspoken on when I and President (Sauli) Niinisto visited him in the White House, is actually followed with concrete action," the Swedish prime minister added. She and Niinisto met with Biden in Washington on May 19.

"We are very, very grateful" for such support, Andersson said.

Seized territory scenario

Milley met with sailors, pilots and marines aboard the Kearsarge, which is equipped with 10 Osprey transport aircraft, capable of taking off and landing vertically like a helicopter and flying like an airplane.

The vessel also houses six Harrier attack helicopters, three MH-60 helicopters -- the marine version of the better-known "Black Hawk" -- and five landing vehicles.

Asked what message the presence of the ship in the Baltic Sea sends, Milley noted that the Baltops participants will practise "amphibious assaults and scenarios that would involve attacking land that is seized by an adversary or an enemy country," which was seen as a thinly veiled warning to Russia.

The United States is also considering stepping up its participation in other military exercises in coming months, Milley said.

While NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has said repeatedly the two nations would be welcomed "with open arms," their membership bids are being blocked by Turkey, which accuses them of providing haven to members of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which Turkey and its Western allies classify as a terrorist group.

Both Nordic countries have sought security assurances during the drawn-out application process -- while waiting for full membership, with its guaranteed support from allies under Article V of NATO's founding treaty.

Pending that, both have called for a stronger US military presence in the Baltic and Northern Europe.

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At the gates of the Black Sea, trade is in full swing as freighters and oil tankers sail from the heart of Istanbul to Russian and Ukrainian ports.

Just after the Russian offensive in Ukraine on February 24 and the first Western sanctions, the largest vessels of international companies plying on these waters were replaced by smaller ships.

The total number of ships on the route remains around the pre-war level of 40,000, according to experts.

"Russia shamelessly steals Ukrainian grain and sends it overseas from Crimea, including to Turkey," said Vasyl Bodnar, Ukraine's ambassador to Ankara.

"In May alone, we counted at least 10 passages including two round trips from three vessels flying the Russian flag... Not to mention those that we would have collectively missed."

From his terrace overlooking the Bosphorus, Yoruk Isik has been a passionate observer of ship movements on this key waterway between the Black Sea and the Mediterranean for a decade now.

While swiftly condemning the Russian offensive in Ukraine, Turkey positioned itself as a neutral mediator and refused to join Western sanctions against Moscow.

Although Ankara has banned the passage of military vessels through its straits of the Dardanelles and Bosphorus since late February under the Montreux Treaty of 1936, it is not legally entitled to intercept commercial ships or to search them, a diplomatic source said in Ankara.

"We don't follow the ships on their way out of the Straits. We monitor them 10 kilometres before they enter and 10 kilometres after they leave," the source said on condition of anonymity.

Elizabete Aunina, a researcher at Amsterdam University, said: "If we look at the vague words of the Montreux treaty it leaves a lot up for interpretation.

"It did not foresee that merchant vessels could be carrying stolen goods... Turkey has before showed a certain commitment to stick to the very basic interpretation of the Convention as a way to also protect itself from entering deeper into the conflict".

The European Union imposed an embargo on Russian imports but tankers flying the Greek or Maltese flags are seen sailing through the Bosphorus up to the Black Sea to the Russian ports.

Maritime corridors

Thanks to real-time tracking applications, a strong network of observers, Russian and Ukrainian activists and satellite images, no vessel escapes Isik's radar.

"We can see from end to end, where the ship is getting loaded by the ship," he said.

Some freighters loaded the wheat in Ukrainian ports under Russian blockade such as Odessa, Chornomorsk or Mariupol, he said.

The destination? Syria -- where Russia retains an operational base -- and then Lebanon or Egypt.

Isik also identified a flotilla of old Turkish boats, "never seen before in the area" suddenly appearing under a flag of convenience in the Russian port of Novorossiysk -- "likely under contract with the Russian government".

He lists a few names: Kocatepe (now Tanzanian), Barbaros (Equatorial Guinea), Hizir (Malta) and Sampiyon Trabzonsport (Cameroon).

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will visit Turkey on Wednesday to discuss a possible establishment of "sea corridors" -- although Ukrainian wheat is being covertly exported to Russia's benefit, according to experts.

"This is the information we get but we cannot stop, or check, or question the intention of any cargo ship except if we feel a threat to Turkish peace or security," the diplomatic source said.

But for Isik who keeps the list of cargo ships belonging to the Russian defence ministry and those of private companies operating on its behalf, "what is happening is unacceptable".

EU mulling tighter sanctions

Before the war, Ukraine was on track to becoming the world's third biggest exporter of wheat and many countries in Africa and the Middle East depend on it.

"If Russia exports Ukrainian products, nobody authorises Turkey to stop the vessels," said Yucel Acer, professor of international law at the University of Ankara, adding "unless there is a United Nations resolution" -- a futile move as long as Russia holds a veto power in the Security Council.

Without openly admitting it, the European Commission has found holes in the current sanctions regime and is preparing to tighten the screws again, said a source in Brussels.

These foresee a new set of sanctions targeting Moscow plans to deprive the European operators of their insurance if their vessels are caught red-handed.

"Most of these vessels are covered by European and British insurance: with this new package, they will no longer be able to use them," said the source.

"This should have a significant impact."

But Turkey could do more, said Aunina, from Amsterdam university.

"Following the annexation of Crimea, Turkey technically banned ships from Crimea in its ports: This could be done as well!"

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Explosions rocked the Ukrainian capital Kyiv on Sunday as a regional governor said Ukrainian forces were pushing back against Russian troops in the strategic eastern city of Severodonetsk.

Russia's defense ministry said a barrage of airstrikes on Ukraine's capital destroyed tanks donated by the West and other armor in an attack on Sunday that shattered five weeks of eerie calm in Kyiv, as President Vladimir Putin warned the West about supplying long-range rocket systems to Ukraine.

Putin said that Moscow would hit targets ``we haven't yet struck'' if it went ahead with such deliveries. It wasn't immediately clear if Putin was referring to new targets within or outside Ukraine's borders.

Russian forces pounded railway facilities and other infrastructure early Sunday in the capital, Kyiv. Ukraine's nuclear plant operator, Energoatom, said one cruise missile buzzed the Pivdennoukrainsk nuclear plant, about 350 kilometers (220 miles) to the south, on its way to the capital _ citing the dangers of such a near miss.

There was no immediate confirmation from Ukraine that the Russian airstrikes had destroyed tanks.

Kyiv hadn't faced any such strikes since the April 28 visit of U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. The early morning attack triggered air raid alarms and showed that Russia still had the capability and willingness to hit at Ukraine's heart since abandoning its wider offensive across the country to instead focus its efforts in the east.

The strikes appeared aimed at thwarting the resupplying of Ukrainian fighters, a rising concern in Moscow.

In a posting on the Telegram app, the Russian Defense Ministry said high-precision, long-range air-launched missiles were used. It said the strikes destroyed on the outskirts of Kyiv destroyed T-72 tanks supplied by Eastern European countries and other armored vehicles located in buildings of a car-repair business.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24 has led to untold tens of thousands of civilian and troop deaths, driven millions from their homes, sparked vast sanctions against Putin's government and allies, and strangled exports of critical wheat and other grains from Ukraine through Black Sea ports _ limiting access to bread and other products in Africa, the Middle East and beyond.

In a television interview on Sunday, Putin lashed out at Western deliveries of weapons to Ukraine, saying they aim to prolong the conflict.

``All this fuss around additional deliveries of weapons, in my opinion, has only one goal: To drag out the armed conflict as much as possible,'' Putin said, alluding to U.S. plans to supply multiple launch rocket systems to Kyiv. He insisted such supplies were unlikely to change much for the Ukrainian government, which he said was merely making up for losses of rockets of similar range that they already had.

If Kyiv gets longer-range rockets, he added, Moscow will ``draw appropriate conclusions and use our means of destruction, which we have plenty of, in order to strike at those objects that we have not yet struck.''

The missiles hit Kyiv's Darnytski and Dniprovski districts, Mayor Vitali Klitschko said on the Telegram messaging app, punctuating the Kremlin's recently reduced goal of seizing the entire Donbas region in the east. Moscow-backed separatists have fought Ukrainian forces for eight years in the Donbas and established self-proclaimed republics.

In recent days, Russian forces have focused on capturing the city of Sievierodonetsk.

A billowing pillar of smoke filled the air with an acrid odor in Kyiv's eastern Darnystki district, and the charred, blackened wreckage of a warehouse-type structure was smoldering. Police near the site told an Associated Press reporter that military authorities had banned the taking of images. Soldiers also blocked off a road in a nearby area leading toward a large railway yard.

The sites struck included facilities for the state rail company, Ukrzaliznytsia, said Serhiy Leshchenko, an adviser in President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's office, on Telegram.

Energoatom said a Russian cruise missile came dangerously close to the Pivdennoukrainsk nuclear power plant at 5:30 a.m., seemingly tearing toward Kyiv. It said the missile ``flew critically low'' and that Russian targeters ``still do not understand that even the smallest fragment of a missile that can hit a working power unit can cause a nuclear catastrophe and radiation leak.''

Russian strikes have repeatedly targeted railway facilities, seemingly aimed at slowing the provision of weapons to Ukrainian forces on the front lines. The cruise missiles appeared to have been launched from a Tu-95 bomber flying over the Caspian Sea, the Air Force Command said on Facebook. It said air defense units shot down one missile.

Elsewhere, Russian forces continued their push to take ground in eastern Ukraine, with missile and airstrikes carried out on cities and villages of the Luhansk region, with the war now past the 100-day mark.

Luhansk governor Serhiy Haidai said on Telegram that ``airstrikes by Russian Ka-52 helicopters were carried out in the areas of Girske and Myrna Dolyna, by Su-25 aircraft - on Ustynivka,'' while Lysychansk was hit by a missile from the Tochka-U complex.

A total of 13 houses were damaged in Girske, and five in Lysychansk. Another airstrike was reported in the eastern city of Kramatorsk by its mayor Oleksandr Goncharenko. No one was killed in the attack, he said, but two of the city's enterprises sustained ``significant damage.''

On Sunday morning, Ukraine's General Staff accused Russian forces of using phosphorus munitions in the village of Cherkaski Tyshky in the Kharkiv region. The claim couldn't be independently verified.

The update also confirmed strikes on Kyiv, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday. It wasn't immediately clear from the statement which infrastructure facilities in Kyiv were hit.

The General Staff said Russian forces continue assault operations in Sievierodonetsk, one of two key cities left to be captured in the Luhansk region of the Donbas. The Russians control the eastern part of the city, the update said, and are focusing on trying to encircle Ukrainian forces in the area and ``blocking off main logistical routes.''

The U.K. military said in its daily intelligence update that Ukrainian counterattacks in Sieverodonetsk were ``likely blunting the operational momentum Russian forces previously gained through concentrating combat units and firepower.'' Russian forces previously had been making a string of advances in the city, but Ukrainian fighters have pushed back in recent days.

The statement also said Russia's military was partly relying on reserve forces of the Luhansk region.

``These troops are poorly equipped and trained, and lack heavy equipment in comparison to regular Russian units,'' the intelligence update said, adding that ``this approach likely indicates a desire to limit casualties suffered by regular Russian forces.''

Far from the battlefield, Ukraine's national soccer players are hoping to secure a World Cup spot when the team takes on Wales later Sunday in Cardiff.

On the diplomatic front, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov was heading to Serbia for talks with President Aleksandar Vucic early this week, followed by a visit to Turkey on Tuesday, where the Russian envoy is expected to discuss Ukraine with his Turkish counterpart.

Turkey has been trying to work with U.N. and the warring countries to help clear the way for Ukrainian grain to be exported to Turkish ports, though no deal on the issue appeared imminent.

A Ukrainian presidential adviser urged European nations to respond with ``more sanctions, more weapons'' to Sunday's missile attacks.

Mykhailo Podolyak referenced remarks Friday by French President Emmanuel Macron, who said Putin had made a ``historic error'' by invading Ukraine, but that world powers shouldn't ``humiliate Russia`` so that a diplomatic exit could be found when the fighting stops.

``While someone asks not to humiliate, the Kremlin resorts to new insidious attacks,'' Podolyak tweeted. ``Each of such terrorist attacks must face a tough response from European capitals: more sanctions, more weapons.''

Ukrainian officials have denounced the remark, and have criticized France and some other European countries for continuing to speak to Putin and talking about diplomatic solutions instead of working to push Russia out of Ukraine militarily.

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The question was posed in a private briefing to U.S. intelligence officials weeks before Russia launched its invasion in late February: Was Ukraine's leader, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, made in the mold of Britain's Winston Churchill or Afghanistan's Ashraf Ghani?

In other words, would Zelenskyy lead a historic resistance or flee while his government collapsed?

Ultimately, U.S. intelligence agencies underestimated Zelenskyy and Ukraine while overestimating Russia and its president, even as they accurately predicted Vladimir Putin would order an invasion.

But Kyiv, Ukraine's capital, did not fall in a few days, as the the United States had expected. And while American spy agencies have been credited with supporting Ukraine's resistance, they now face bipartisan pressure to review what they got wrong beforehand, especially after their mistakes in judging Afghanistan last year.

Intelligence officials have begun a review of how their agencies judge the will and ability of foreign governments to fight. The review is taking place while U.S. intelligence continues to have a critical role in Ukraine and as the White House ramps up weapons deliveries and support to Ukraine, trying to predict what Putin might see as escalatory and seeking to avoid a direct war with Russia.

President Joe Biden's administration announced it would give Ukraine a small number of high-tech, medium-range rocket systems, a weapon that Ukraine has long wanted. Since the war began on Feb. 24, the White House has approved shipping drones, anti-tank and anti-aircraft systems, and millions of rounds of ammunition. The U.S. has lifted early restrictions on intelligence-sharing to provide information that Ukraine has used to strike critical targets, including the flagship of the Russian navy.

Lawmakers from both parties question whether the U.S. could have done more before Putin invaded and whether the White House held back some support due to pessimistic assessments of Ukraine. Sen. Angus King, an independent from Maine, told officials at a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing last month that ``had we had a better handle on the prediction, we could have done more to assist the Ukrainians earlier.``

Ohio Rep. Mike Turner, the top Republican on the House Intelligence Committee, said in an interview that he thought the White House and top administration officials had projected ``their own bias on the situation in a way that lends itself to inaction.''

The Senate Intelligence Committee sent a classified letter last month to the Office of the Director of National Intelligence asking about how intelligence agencies assessed both Ukraine and Afghanistan. CNN first reported the letter.

Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines told lawmakers in May that the National Intelligence Council would review how the agencies assess both ``will to fight'' and ``capacity to fight.'' Both issues are ``quite challenging to provide effective analysis on and we're looking at different methodologies for doing so,'' Haines said.

While there is no announced timetable on the review, which began before the committee's letter, officials have identified some errors. Several people familiar with prewar assessments spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive intelligence.

Despite its vast advantages, Russia failed to establish air superiority over Ukraine and failed at basic tasks such as securing its battlefield communications. It has lost thousands of soldiers and at least eight to 10 generals, according to U.S. estimates. Russian and Ukrainian forces are now fighting in fierce, close quarters combat in eastern Ukraine, far from the swift Russian victory forecast by the U.S. and the West.

While Russia has entered recent proxy wars, it had not directly fought a major land war since the 1980s. That meant many of Russia's projected and claimed capabilities had not been put to the test, posing a challenge for analysts to assess how Russia it would perform in a major invasion, some of the people said. Russia's active weapons export industry led some people to believe Moscow would have many more missile systems and planes ready to deploy.

Russia has not used chemical or biological weapons, as the U.S. publicly warned it might. One official noted that the U.S. had ``very strong concerns'' about a chemical attack, but that Russia may have decided that would cause too much global opposition. Fears that Russia would use a wave of cyberattacks against Ukraine and allies have not materialized so far.

Other Russian problems were well-known, including low troop morale, a prevalence of drug and alcohol abuse among troops, and the lack of a noncommissioned officer corps to oversee forces and deliver instructions from commanders.

``We knew all of those things existed,'' said retired Lt. Gen. Robert Ashley, the former director of the Defense Intelligence Agency. ``But it just became a cascading effect of how overwhelming all of that became when they tried to do even the most simple of operations.''

Sue Gordon, the former principal deputy director of national intelligence, said analysts may have relied too much on counting Russia's inventory of military and cyber tools.

``We're going to learn a little bit about how we think about capability and use as not one and the same when you assess outcome,'' she said at a recent event sponsored by The Cipher Brief, an intelligence publication.

Zelenskyy has received worldwide acclaim for refusing to flee as Russia sent teams to try to capture or kill him. Britain's Churchill, throughout the yearlong blitz of London by German fighter aircraft during World War II, often watched the bombing raids from rooftops and he made special effort to walk the streets in places where thousands were killed.

In contrast, Afghanistan's Ghani slipped out of his country on Sunday last August, lonely and isolated, a few months after America's top diplomat had urged him to forge a united stand as the American military pullout neared. Ghani did not even tell other political leaders who had been negotiating a peaceful transition of power with the Taliban that he was heading for the exit. His sudden and secret departure left Kabul, the capital, rudderless as U.S. and NATO forces were in the final stages of their chaotic withdrawal from the country after 20 years.

For Zelenskyy, before the war there were tensions, too, with Washington about the likelihood of a Russian invasion and whether Ukraine was prepared. One flashpoint, according to people familiar with the dispute, was that the U.S. wanted Ukraine to move forces from its west to bolster defenses around Kyiv.

Until shortly before the war, Zelenskyy and top Ukrainian officials discounted warnings of an invasion, in part to tamp down public panic and protect the economy. One U.S. official said there was a belief that Zelenskyy had never been tested in a crisis of the level his country was facing.

Lt. Gen. Scott Berrier, the current director of the DIA, testified in March that ``my view was that, based on a variety of factors, that the Ukrainians were not as ready as I thought they should be. Therefore, I questioned their will to fight. That was a bad assessment on my part because they have fought bravely and honorably and are doing the right thing.''

In May, Berrier distanced his own view from that of the entire intelligence community, which he said never had an assessment ``that said the Ukrainians lacked the will to fight.''

There was ample evidence of Ukraine's determination before the war. Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea and the eight-year conflict in the Donbas region had hardened public attitudes against Moscow. Ukrainian forces had received years of training and weapons shipments from the U.S. across several administrations along with help bolstering its cyber defenses.

U.S. intelligence had reviewed private polling suggested strong support in Ukraine for any resistance. In Kharkiv, a mostly Russian-speaking city near the border, citizens were learning to fire guns and training for guerrilla warfare.

Rep. Brad Wenstrup, a member of the House Intelligence Committee, saw that determination firsthand during a December trip. Wenstrup, R-Ohio, witnessed a military ceremony where participants would read the names of every Ukrainian soldier who had died the previous day on the front lines in the Donbas, the region in eastern Ukraine where Moscow-backed separatists have been fighting Ukrainian government forces since 2014.

``It showed to me that they had a will to fight,'' he said. ``This has been brewing for a long time.''

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KYODO NEWS - Jun 3, 2022 - 23:10 | All, Feature, Japan

The Japanese government on Friday called for a revamp of old-fashioned labor practices, taxation and social security systems that have left the nation's gender gap largely intact for years, taking issue with the stereotypical notion of the roles expected of men and women.

A policy blueprint to promote women's economic empowerment states that the once deep-rooted belief that marriage guarantees women economic stability for the rest of their life is "a thing of the past" as more women choose to get divorced and live longer than before.

The government plans to make it mandatory for firms with 300 or more employees to release gender pay gap data, and assist women in acquiring necessary digital skills and finding a job by setting a three-year intensive period.

It will also review the existing taxation and social security systems to better reflect the needs of working women.

Japan lags behind other nations in ensuring gender equality and it ranked 120th among 156 nations in a World Economic Forum gender gap report released in March 2021, due to the low percentage of women in managerial posts or female lawmakers.

"I place female economic empowerment at the center of my new form of capitalism and will boldly implement steps to raise women's pay," Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said at a government panel meeting.

Under what he terms a "new form of capitalism," Kishida seeks to ensure a virtuous cycle of growth and distribution. He is calling for companies to raise wages more aggressively to reward workers and support domestic demand.

The new policy blueprint says there is a need to change the old mentality that helped support the social systems throughout the country's rapid economic growth decades ago -- that men should work and women should stay home and do the housework.

Experts see the government as facing the formidable task of changing how people think and act because it will require a long-term policy vision and financial support.

Improving the working environment for men is also a priority, and the government said it needs to make it easier for men to take paternity leave and work from home.

Japan is one of the world's fastest aging societies and faces labor shortages. More women have entered the workforce in recent years, although many tend to work part-time.
KYODO NEWS - Jun 5, 2022 - 19:29 | All, World

North Korea launched eight short-range ballistic missiles toward the Sea of Japan on Sunday, the South Korean military said, a day after South Korea and the United States ended joint drills involving a U.S. aircraft carrier in international waters off Okinawa, southern Japan.

Japanese Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi said North Korea had fired at least six ballistic missiles from more than three locations on the country's east and west coasts as well as inland, and they traveled 300 to 400 kilometers eastward.

Kishi said the projectiles achieved maximum altitudes of 50 to 100 km and more than one flew on irregular trajectories before falling into the sea.

South Korea's military said the launches were detected from 9:08 a.m. to 9:43 a.m. from a total of four locations, including the Sunan area near the North's capital Pyongyang.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida condemned the launches, saying the government had lodged a protest with North Korea.

"We cannot tolerate such launches because they threaten the peace and stability of the international community," Kishida told reporters in Fukushima Prefecture, northeast of Tokyo.

"We will continue our best efforts to collect information and conduct surveillance in close coordination with the United States and South Korea," he said.

Kishi said his ministry had assessed that the missiles landed outside Japan's exclusive economic zone and there were no reports of damage to ships or aircraft.

"It is unusual that (North Korea) fired an extremely large number (of missiles) from more than three locations in a short time," the defense minister said. "(North Korea) may have advanced consecutive firing capabilities."

The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command said in a statement that it was aware of "multiple ballistic missile launches" by North Korea, and consulting closely with allies and partners.

The command said the launches "highlight the destabilizing impact of the DPRK's illicit weapons program."

DPRK is the acronym of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, North Korea's official name.

The United States' commitment to the defense of Japan and South Korea "remains ironclad," the statement said.

North Korea has fired a series of projectiles, including an intercontinental ballistic missile and two other missiles on May 25 just after U.S. President Joe Biden ended a trip to Seoul and Tokyo.

The launches came amid signs that Pyongyang is preparing to conduct what would be a seventh nuclear test and its first since 2017.
Members of the Chinese Medical Team (CMT) pose with children at the entrance of the paediatric ward of Mzuzu Central Hospital in Mzuzu, Malawi, on June 1, 2022. A team of 8 members from the CMT working at Malawi's northern referral hospital of Mzuzu on Wednesday celebrated International Children's Day by cheering children at the health facility's paediatrics ward.(Chinese Medical Team in Malawi/Handout via Xinhua)

MZUZU, Malawi, June 1 (Xinhua) -- A team of 8 members from the Chinese Medical Team (CMT) working at Malawi's northern referral hospital of Mzuzu on Wednesday celebrated International Children's Day by cheering children at the health facility's paediatrics ward.

The CMT members, together with the local medical staff at Mzuzu Central Hospital, celebrated the day in the morning after making ward rounds in the paediatrics.

A brief write-up on the event that the team shared with Xinhua described June 1 every year as the day that "reminds us to take good care of children".

"We wish all children a happy Children's Day; we wish them the soonest recovery, and that they stay far from diseases and grow up healthily," the write-up quotes the CMT doctor in charge, Wendy Ren, to have said during the celebrations.

"Doctors have no borders; love has no boundaries. Let's always be together and walk step by step along the way to fight for people's health," adds the event's write-up.

Mzuzu Central Hospital has since hailed the CMT members for the gesture, saying it "attests to the good working relationship that is there between the Chinese team and the Malawian team".

A medical officer in the paediatric department, Mphatso Mpando, told Xinhua that the hospital lacks specialist doctors and that the CMT fills the gap.

"In paediatrics we only have one specialist to cater for all the children that are referred to our facility from the whole Northern region.

"The Chinese medical team helps us in this regard by providing specialists that fill in the gaps in our health system," Mpando said.

According to the medical officer, the CMT is involved in diagnosing medical and surgical conditions, follow-up of patients and teaching.

Currently, a team of 17 Chinese medical personnel is working in Malawi's health facilities, including the country's main referral hospital for the central region, Kamuzu Central Hospital, situated in the capital, Lilongwe.

Other than offering technical services, the CMT has been supporting Malawi's health sector with various medical equipment including personal protective equipment (PEP) in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic. 

A member of the Chinese Medical Team (CMT) cheers up a kid at the paediatric ward of Mzuzu Central Hospital in Mzuzu, Malawi, on June 1, 2022. A team of 8 members from the CMT working at Malawi's northern referral hospital of Mzuzu on Wednesday celebrated International Children's Day by cheering children at the health facility's paediatrics ward.(Chinese Medical Team in Malawi/Handout via Xinhua)

A member of the Chinese Medical Team (CMT) stands with a kid at the paediatric ward of Mzuzu Central Hospital in Mzuzu, Malawi, on June 1, 2022. A team of 8 members from the CMT working at Malawi's northern referral hospital of Mzuzu on Wednesday celebrated International Children's Day by cheering children at the health facility's paediatrics ward.(Chinese Medical Team in Malawi/Handout via Xinhua)
An abandoned quarry in China's Qinling Mountains has undergone significant transformation, thanks to years of ecological restoration.





Produced by Xinhua Global Service




By Trend

Two Saudi government delegations plan to visit the United States this month, officials said on Saturday, as Riyadh and Washington step up efforts to fix strained ties and lay the ground for an eventual visit by U.S. President Joe Biden, Trend reports citing Reuters.

The first delegation is expected to visit Washington on June 15 and will be led by Saudi Minister of Commerce Majid bin Abdullah al-Qasabi. The second, led by Investment Minister Khaled Al-Falih, is planned by the end of the month, two officials said.

The officials declined to be named as the plans had not been made public.

The delegations are expected to include dozens of government officials and Saudi company executives who will discuss agreements and deals in several sectors including transportation, logistics and renewable energy, they said.

The Saudi government did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Biden publicly acknowledged on Friday that he may travel to Saudi Arabia soon, a trip that multiple sources say is expected and could include talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

The visit would help mend relations with Saudi Arabia, which have come under strain because of rising energy prices, the Yemen war and the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018 at the kingdom's consulate in Istanbul.

Biden's announcement followed a decision on Thursday from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies, known as OPEC+, to boost oil output, and an agreement between the Saudi-backed government and the Iran-aligned Houthis to extend a truce in Yemen. Biden and the White House praised Saudi Arabia for both decisions.

The U.S. stance is also changing as it worries about Gulf states' deepening ties with China and Russia.

"Regardless if Biden's visit takes place or not, both sides are working to restore ties on an institutional level and in different sectors," said one of the officials.
President of Timor-Leste Jose Ramos-Horta (L) meets with visiting Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Dili, Timor-Leste, June 4, 2022. (Xinhua/Xu Qin)

DILI, June 4 (Xinhua) -- President of Timor-Leste Jose Ramos-Horta and visiting Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Saturday expressed common willingness to strengthen regional cooperation and safeguard multilateralism.

During their meeting in Dili, the capital of Timor-Leste, Ramos-Horta said his country fully supports the Belt and Road Initiative and other major initiatives proposed by China. China's development benefits Timor-Leste greatly, and is of great significance to the region and the world.

Ramos-Horta thanked the Chinese government and people for their tremendous support in the past years, stressing that Timor-Leste has unswervingly adhered to the one-China policy since the establishment of diplomatic ties.

Timor-Leste is full of confidence and expectation for the future of bilateral relations, the president said.

For his part, Wang expressed appreciation to Ramos-Horta for signing the joint communique on establishing diplomatic ties with China on the day of independence in 2002 when he served as the first foreign minister of Timor-Leste.

Over the past 20 years, Wang said, China and Timor-Leste have treated each other as equals, understood each other and supported each other. Timor-Leste has become an important partner of the Belt and Road Initiative, and China has played a positive role in Timor-Leste's socio-economic development, infrastructure construction and improvement of people's lives.

Immediately after the COVID-19 outbreak, China sent medical supplies to Timor-Leste to help its fight against the pandemic. Chinese medical teams have benefited more than 300,000 people in the country. China has also taken an active part in the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Timor-Leste, Wang said.

China is ready to work with Timor-Leste to take the 20th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties as an opportunity to review their successful experience and draw up a blueprint for the future, so as to elevate their comprehensive cooperative partnership to a new level and set an example of mutual respect, equality, mutual benefit and common development among countries of all sizes, Wang said.

Wang called for efforts to promote high-quality joint construction of the Belt and Road and initiate new landmark projects. China is willing to support Timor-Leste in enhancing its capability for self-development, accelerating its agricultural modernization and industrialization, and achieving diversified development, he said.

The Chinese side will continue to encourage Chinese enterprises to invest and start businesses in Timor-Leste, contributing to its development and revitalization, Wang added.

Both sides also reached consensus on strengthening regional cooperation.

Wang said China supports Timor-Leste playing an active role in regional and international affairs, and expects to see its early entry into the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, on which Ramos-Horta expressed gratitude for China's support as well as the hope that the long-cherished wish will come true at an early date.

Both sides pledged to uphold and safeguard multilateralism.

Wang said China expects Timor-Leste to take an active part in the China-proposed Global Development Initiative and Global Security Initiative, both of which have won widespread support.

Timor-Leste always sticks to its principles despite being a small nation, Ramos-Horta said, noting that his country advocates peaceful settlement of differences through dialogue and consultation as well as unity in responding to challenges facing international peace and security.

Wang is on a visit to Timor-Leste, the last leg of his Pacific tour starting from May 26, which has taken him to island countries of the Solomon Islands, Kiribati, Samoa, Fiji, Tonga, Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea. 
BEIJING, June 5 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese mainland continues to see the number of daily locally transmitted COVID-19 cases and asymptomatic carriers remain below 100, a health official said Sunday.

However, 16 provincial regions have reported local infections over the past week, Mi Feng, spokesperson for the National Health Commission, said at a press conference held by the State Council joint prevention and control mechanism against COVID-19.

Mi called for unrelenting efforts to continue routine COVID-19 prevention and control measures, along with prompt and targeted measures to cut off virus transmission. 
Photo taken on Nov. 23, 2021 shows the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States. (Photo by Ting Shen/Xinhua)

For its own grip on the world, the United States is deliberately creating chaos and crises, especially in countries that stand against its hegemony and destructive policies, Syrian political expert Mohammad al-Omari told Xinhua.



DAMASCUS, June 5 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. quest to maintain its hegemony and a unilateral international system is stirring up chaos and instability worldwide, not least as Washington has repeatedly acted outside the framework of the UN Charter, Syrian experts have said.

For its own grip on the world, the United States is deliberately creating chaos and crises, especially in countries that stand against its hegemony and destructive policies, Syrian political expert Mohammad al-Omari told Xinhua.

According to the expert, it has become obvious that the United States has followed a strategy of provoking internal rifts and conflicts "in an effort to drown emerging countries, which oppose the American policies, and push such countries towards crises and wars and preoccupy them in conflicts regionally or internationally."

"The United States does not respect the Charter of the United Nations and does not respect international organizations," al-Omari said. "It uses these organizations as a means to interfere in the internal affairs of other countries when its interests require that."

Denouncing U.S. foreign policy as the "most destroyer" of the international system, al-Omari said the United States doesn't respect the sovereignty of other countries and violates all related UN resolutions in that regard.

Employing such bright terms and slogans as human rights and democracy, the United States aims to "achieve its own interests and its expansion at the level of the international system and the level of expanding its military bases or even interference in internal affairs of other countries," al-Omari noted.

Meanwhile, Osama Danura, another political expert, warned that more wars and crises would rise around the world, if the U.S. policies remained unrestricted.

"When there is no control over the American behavior, this means that wars will erupt constantly. The negative outcome of such wars, also known as post-war crises, as they are called, will increase constantly, and therefore the crisis will continue to escalate and the scenes of chaos and instability will be seen increasingly in different parts of the world," he said.

Danura reiterated that the United States has the most military intervention in the world through incursions or by planning military coups and messing with other countries' internal affairs.

The principle of non-interference, which is one of the founding principles of the UN Charter, is not respected by the United States, Danura told Xinhua.

"As soon as any crisis occurs anywhere in the world, we will find that the first party to give itself the right to intervene is the United States, which is also the first to set itself up as a custodian of democracy and human rights in the world without being asked to do so and without the support of international legitimacy," he said.

A U.S. military vehicle runs past the Tal Tamr area in the countryside of Hasakah province, northeastern Syria, Nov. 14, 2019. (Str/Xinhua)

The scholar said the United States spares no pains to achieve its interest, even if it was at the expense of other countries' stability and prosperity.

Whenever there is a crisis between two countries, the United States is always the quickest "to send forces or to issue political judgments or to intervene as a force that favors one party over another in accordance with its own interests," Danura said.

Moreover, he stressed that the United States has historically played the primary role in destroying the international legal system and disrespecting UN resolutions either directly or through proxies.

The country's backup plan to create chaos and force other states is imposing economic sanctions -- another means to use when it cannot use the military one, said Danura.

"There is always a tendency to inflict economic destruction when the U.S. military arm can't work freely or when the public opinion in the U.S. doesn't support or ready for a military action against a certain country very far from the territory of the United States," he added. 
Bajram Begaj is seen at a parliament session during which he was elected president in Tirana, Albania, June 4, 2022. Albanian lawmakers elected Bajram Begaj, who held the post of the Chief of General Staff of the Albanian Armed Forces (AAF), as the new president of Albania, with 78 votes in favor, four against and one abstained at a parliament session here on Saturday. (Photo by Gent Onuzi/Xinhua)

TIRANA, June 4 (Xinhua) -- Albanian lawmakers elected Bajram Begaj, who held the post of the Chief of General Staff of the Albanian Armed Forces (AAF), as the new president of Albania, with 78 votes in favor, four against and one abstained at a parliament session here on Saturday.

A total of 103 out of the 140 members of the parliament (MPs) were present at the beginning of the parliament session, but only 83 participated in the voting. The majority of the opposition MPs, including those of the main opposition Democratic Party boycotted the process.

Speaking to local reporters on Friday, Rama declared that the ruling Socialist Party (SP) parliamentary group has decided to propose Begaj as the candidate for president.

Following this proposal, Begaj held a meeting with Rama at the Prime Minister's office where he informed Rama that he was honored to be proposed for the post.

On Saturday, in a letter to the media, Begaj announced that he has resigned from his military post as major general in order to pave the way for the lawmakers to continue with the election procedure.

"If the parliament decides today that I will be the next president of the republic, the arrows of my compass in this high task will be the respect for the other and love for the homeland," Begaj said in the letter.

Prior to the parliament session, the Law Commission accepted and verified the proposal signed by 37 SP lawmakers, which was sent to the parliament on Saturday morning.

On Saturday, outgoing President Ilir Meta signed the decree on Begaj's dismissal as Chief of General Staff of the AAF, as well as the release as an active service in the Armed Forces of Major General Bajram Begaj.

The Albanian parliament had failed to elect a new president in the first three rounds as no candidates were proposed by any of the parliamentary groups.

According to the country's constitution, a total of 84 votes in favor are needed to elect a proposed candidate as president in the first three rounds and 71 votes in fourth and fifth rounds.

Begaj, 55, will take oath as the new president on July 25, 2022 to replace Meta, who will be in office until July 22, 2022.

Begaj was born in the small town of Rrogozhina located in center-west of Albania on March 20, 1967. He is married to Armanda Begaj and is the father of two sons.

In 1989, he graduated from the Faculty of Medicine in the University of Tirana and was awarded the title of active officer in the Medicine specialty in 1998.

Begaj has a Doctor's Degree in Medicine and holds the title of associate professor in medicine. 
People clean the courtyard and stupa on the occasion of Sithi Nakha Festival in Lalitpur, Nepal, June 5, 2022. The Newar community celebrates the Sithi Nakha festival to mark the beginning of monsoon season by cleaning water sources such as ponds, wells and stone spouts. People also prepare traditional pancakes such as Bara and Chatamari as a tribute to their ancestral god. (Photo by Hari Maharjan/Xinhua)

People clean a well on the occasion of Sithi Nakha Festival, Nepal, June 5, 2022. The Newar community celebrates the Sithi Nakha festival to mark the beginning of monsoon season by cleaning water sources such as ponds, wells and stone spouts. People also prepare traditional pancakes such as Bara and Chatamari as a tribute to their ancestral god. (Photo by Hari Maharjan/Xinhua)

People clean the courtyard and stupa on the occasion of Sithi Nakha Festival in Lalitpur, Nepal, June 5, 2022. The Newar community celebrates the Sithi Nakha festival to mark the beginning of monsoon season by cleaning water sources such as ponds, wells and stone spouts. People also prepare traditional pancakes such as Bara and Chatamari as a tribute to their ancestral god. (Photo by Hari Maharjan/Xinhua)

A Nepalese cooks special pancake with green and black lentils during Sithi Nakha Festival in Lalitpur, Nepal, June 5, 2022. The Newar community celebrates the Sithi Nakha festival to mark the beginning of monsoon season by cleaning water sources such as ponds, wells and stone spouts. People also prepare traditional pancakes such as Bara and Chatamari as a tribute to their ancestral god. (Photo by Hari Maharjan/Xinhua)
Staff members make preparation at an exam site of the upcoming national college entrance exam for 2022 in Beijing, capital of China, June 5, 2022.

A new high of 11.93 million students will take China's national college entrance exam for 2022, also known as "gaokao." (Xinhua/Ren Chao)

A medical worker prepares medical supplies at an exam site of the upcoming national college entrance exam for 2022 in Beijing, capital of China, June 5, 2022.

A new high of 11.93 million students will take China's national college entrance exam for 2022, also known as "gaokao." (Xinhua/Ren Chao)

A staff member pastes numbers on desks at an exam site of the upcoming national college entrance exam for 2022 in Beijing, capital of China, June 5, 2022.

A new high of 11.93 million students will take China's national college entrance exam for 2022, also known as "gaokao." (Xinhua/Ren Chao)

A staff member puts up a sign outside an exam site of the upcoming national college entrance exam for 2022 in Beijing, capital of China, June 5, 2022.

A new high of 11.93 million students will take China's national college entrance exam for 2022, also known as "gaokao." (Xinhua/Ren Chao)

Medical workers take swab samples from staff members for nucleic acid test at an exam site of the upcoming national college entrance exam for 2022 in Beijing, capital of China, June 5, 2022.

A new high of 11.93 million students will take China's national college entrance exam for 2022, also known as "gaokao." (Xinhua/Ren Chao)

A staff member disinfects an exam site of the upcoming national college entrance exam for 2022 in Beijing, capital of China, June 5, 2022.

A new high of 11.93 million students will take China's national college entrance exam for 2022, also known as "gaokao." (Xinhua/Ren Chao)

Staff members put up a rainproof shelter at an exam site of the upcoming national college entrance exam for 2022 in Beijing, capital of China, June 5, 2022.

A new high of 11.93 million students will take China's national college entrance exam for 2022, also known as "gaokao." (Xinhua/Ren Chao)

Nucleic acid testing booths are seen at an exam site of the upcoming national college entrance exam for 2022 in Beijing, capital of China, June 5, 2022.

A new high of 11.93 million students will take China's national college entrance exam for 2022, also known as "gaokao." (Xinhua/Ren Chao)

A staff member has her body temperature checked at an exam site of the upcoming national college entrance exam for 2022 in Beijing, capital of China, June 5, 2022.

A new high of 11.93 million students will take China's national college entrance exam for 2022, also known as "gaokao." (Xinhua/Ren Chao)

A staff member writes examination information on a blackboard at an exam site of the upcoming national college entrance exam for 2022 in Beijing, capital of China, June 5, 2022.

A new high of 11.93 million students will take China's national college entrance exam for 2022, also known as "gaokao." (Xinhua/Ren Chao)
by Dana Halawi

BEIRUT, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Shadia al-Asmar, a student in her twenties, pays 150,000 Lebanese pounds (around 5.3 U.S. dollars) a day sharing a cab for her roundtrip to university, which locates about 40 kilometers away from her house.

"The transportation cost, which is nearly equivalent to my university tuition fees, has become unbearable for my family," she told Xinhua.

For his part, Assaad Hamed, a 30-year-old employee at a governmental department in eastern Lebanon, told Xinhua that he agreed with five of his colleagues to share a car on their way to work in a bid to reduce their cost of transportation.

Lebanon has been suffering from a steep financial crisis amid shortage of U.S. dollars which hindered the imports of fuel, leading to a rise in the price of the commodity.

The crisis weighed heavily on the Lebanese who had to bear the burden of a rising transportation cost at a time when their salaries were devalued by over 90 percent due to the collapse of the local currency.

Lebanon's transportation crisis was further exacerbated by the shortage of public buses.

Assaad Zoughaib, the mayor of Zahle, the largest municipality in eastern Lebanon, has cooperated with the European Union (EU) by operating four EU-funded environmental friendly buses inside and around the city, in an attempt to alleviate the burden of the increasing transportation cost for citizens.

He explained that the buses, each with a capacity of 45 passengers, are operated in a Hybrid system with both electricity and Euro 6 diesel to help reduce the level of harmful pollutants.

Jihad Haddad, an engineer and specialist in automobile mechanics, told Xinhua that the new project will have a positive impact on transport amid a continuous rise in the price of fuel, whereby 20 liters of gasoline cost around 600,000 LBP, slightly lower than the minimum wage (675,000 LBP) in Lebanon.

The cost of transportation has skyrocketed. The fare of bus between the eastern and southern regions to the capital city Beirut reaches 140,000 LBP, compared to 15,000 LBP in 2019, which increased by over 800 percent; while the taxi fare for the same distance costs around 3.5 million LBP, according to Jean Zioud, director of a private passenger transport company.

"A new trend is that a large percentage of citizens today prefer using the public transportation to driving their private cars except when absolutely necessary," Zioud told Xinhua.

Lebanese Public Works and Transport Minister Ali Hamieh called late in May for unconditional support to help the country restore its public transportation facilities.

The minister also voiced a plan to create a fund to subsidize passengers by collecting donations from other countries.

In 2018, the World Bank approved a 295-million-dollars package to jumpstart Lebanon's first modern public transport system, but it was put on hold as Lebanon has been struggling since 2019. 
China on Sunday launched the crewed spaceship Shenzhou-14, sending three astronauts to its space station combination for a six-month mission.

Produced by Xinhua Global Service








BEIJING, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping and Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou exchanged congratulatory messages on Sunday to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries.

Xi pointed out that for half a century the two sides, with a historical perspective, have been keeping with the trend of the times, firmly supported each other on issues involving their respective core interests and major concerns, worked together in the joint construction of the Belt and Road in a spirit of openness and win-win cooperation, and carried forward the wisdom of the time-honored civilizations and the Olympic spirit, which have brought tangible benefits to the two countries and their people and set a good example of mutual learning among civilizations for the international community.

Xi stressed that he attaches great importance to the development of China-Greece relations, and stands ready to work with President Sakellaropoulou to take the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties as an opportunity to deepen the traditional friendship, expand practical cooperation, promote cultural exchanges and enrich the connotation of the China-Greece comprehensive strategic partnership, so as to benefit the two countries and their people.

In her message, Sakellaropoulou said that over the past five decades since the establishment of diplomatic relations, Greece and China have nurtured bilateral relations featuring cooperation and friendship in the spirit of mutual understanding and mutual respect.

She expressed the confidence that both sides will join hands to advance the grand goal of promoting dialogue among civilizations and safeguarding world peace. 
SHENYANG, June 5 (Xinhua) -- China has achieved inspiring and remarkable outcomes in fighting climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution, said Elizabeth Maruma Mrema, executive secretary of the UN Convention on Biological Diversity, on Sunday.

Mrema made the remarks at China's national event to mark the 2022 World Environment Day, which she addressed via video link. Themed "work together to build a clean and beautiful world," the event was held in Shenyang, capital of northeast China's Liaoning Province.

Mrema noted that China has actively and persistently contributed to global efforts to address environmental issues, promoting sustainable development and building a community for all life on earth.

She also commended China's measures on mainstreaming biodiversity, including establishing national parks and drawing up ecological redlines.

The national event on World Environment Day aims to encourage the whole of society to improve its awareness of environmental protection, participate in the construction of ecological civilization, and build a beautiful China, demonstrating China's role as an important participant, contributor and leader in constructing global ecological civilization, according to the event organizer.

China's Minister of Ecology and Environment Huang Runqiu said at the event that China will further step up international cooperation on climate change, marine pollution control and biodiversity conservation, working together with the international community to fulfill the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. 
Bajram Begaj elected as Albania's new president

Xinhua) 10:54, June 05, 2022

TIRANA, June 4 (Xinhua) -- Albanian lawmakers elected Bajram Begaj, who held the post of the Chief of General Staff of the Albanian Armed Forces (AAF), as the new president of Albania, with 78 votes in favor, four against and one abstained at a parliament session here on Saturday.

A total of 103 out of the 140 members of the parliament (MPs) were present at the beginning of the parliament session, but only 83 participated in the voting. The majority of the opposition MPs, including those of the main opposition Democratic Party boycotted the process.

Speaking to local reporters on Friday, Rama declared that the ruling Socialist Party (SP) parliamentary group has decided to propose Begaj as the candidate for president.

Following this proposal, Begaj held a meeting with Rama at the Prime Minister's office where he informed Rama that he was honored to be proposed for the post.

On Saturday, in a letter to the media, Begaj announced that he has resigned from his military post as major general in order to pave the way for the lawmakers to continue with the election procedure.

"If the parliament decides today that I will be the next president of the republic, the arrows of my compass in this high task will be the respect for the other and love for the homeland," Begaj said in the letter.

Prior to the parliament session, the Law Commission accepted and verified the proposal signed by 37 SP lawmakers, which was sent to the parliament on Saturday morning.

On Saturday, outgoing President Ilir Meta signed the decree on Begaj's dismissal as Chief of General Staff of the AAF, as well as the release as an active service in the Armed Forces of Major General Bajram Begaj.

The Albanian parliament had failed to elect a new president in the first three rounds as no candidates were proposed by any of the parliamentary groups.

According to the country's constitution, a total of 84 votes in favor are needed to elect a proposed candidate as president in the first three rounds and 71 votes in fourth and fifth rounds.

Begaj, 55, will take oath as the new president on July 25, 2022 to replace Meta, who will be in office until July 22, 2022.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Bianji)
The 2022 Triple Crown season is about to wrap up this coming Sunday at the 2022 Belmont Stakes. Of course, all eyes in the horse racing world will be on this race on Saturday, and with that, we present to you a brief look at some of the favorites, sleepers, and a long shot at the 2022 Belmont Stakes.

Register here to make your Belmont Stakes picks

Betting Preview for the Belmont Stakes on June 11, 2022 at the Belmont Park

Where: Belmont Park Elmont, New York, United States

When: Saturday, June 11, 2022

Lines: View all 2022 Belmont Stakes lines

Triple Crown Lines: Odds on a Triple Crown winner in 2022

TV Broadcast: NBC / NBC Sports

FAVORITES

Mo Donegal (+230)

Mo Donegal is perhaps the top horse to watch out for in the upcoming 2022 Belmont Stakes for a number of reasons. Among which is the fact that he is being trained by renowned trainer Todd Pletcher, whos got three Belmont Stakes titles under his belt. Pletcher was the trainer of three horses that won the third leg of the Triple Crown before, namely Rags to Riches (2007), Palace Malice (2013), and Tapwrit (2017). As for Mo Donegal himself, he last appeared at the 2022 Kentucky Derby where he finished fifth. However, that was just the first time ever that Mo Donegal failed to show. Prior to the Kentucky Derby, he won the Grade 2 Wood Memorial and was also victorious at the Grade 2 Remsen back in December 2021.

We The People (+300)

We The People will be bringing serious speed to the 2022 Belmont Stakes. While he did not participate in any of the first two legs of the Triple Crown, We The People has three wins in four starts, including his success at the Grade 3 Peter Pan race back in May. Riding We The People for the big race this coming Saturday will be Flavien Prat, who was also the man on top of Hot Rod Charlie, the runner-up at the 2021 Belmont Stakes.

Rich Strike (+550)

Rich Strike needs little introduction, especially to horse racing fans. The 3-year-old colt was virtually unknown among casual fans until it blew away the competition at the 2022 Kentucky Derby by coming all the way back from behind the pack to first place for an improbable win at Churchill Downs. Rich Strike skipped the 2022 Preakness Stakes so hes well-rested for the 2022 Belmont Stakes, where he will be looking to go 2 of 3 in this Triple Crown season. Overall in his career, Rich Strike has shown in five of eight career starts.

SLEEPER

Heres what we said about Nest in our 2022 Belmont Stakes sleepers preview:

Todd Pletcher has more than one horse racing at the upcoming 2022 Belmont Stakes. Apart from favorite Mo Donegal, Pletcher also has Nest, whos got longer odds than Mo Donegal, but should be an attractive horse for those looking to lay action on a sleeper. The 3-year-old filly has produced some sensational results since she started racing in 2021. Nest broke maiden in her very first race and then won two graded stakes races, namely the Grade 2 Demoiselle and the Grade 1 Ashland. In between those wins was another victory at the Suncoast Stakes. The last time Nest galloped was at the Grade 1 Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs where he placed runner-up.

Barber Road (+1200)

Heres what we said about Barber Road in our 2022 Belmont Stakes sleepers preview:

Although Barber Road finished just sixth at the 2022 Kentucky Derby, that was actually a quality run from the John A. Ortiz-trained 3-year-old colt, considering the odds he was given. In any case, Barber Road does seem to have the chops to make noise at the 2022 Belmont Stakes. For one, he has shown in seven of nine overall starts. His best finishes to date were a win in a maiden claiming race at Keeneland and a victory at a stakes trial race at Churchill Downs. Then Barber Road also shown in three consecutive graded stakes races prior to the 2022 Kentucky Derby, placing second at the Grade 3 Southwest Stakes, third at Grade 2 Rebel Stakes, and runner-up at Grade 1 Arkansas Derby.

LONG SHOT

Kuchar is not a lock to make a start at the 2022 Belmont Stakes, but hes as long of a long shot could go currently at TopBet.

Writers Prediction

We The People wins the 2022 Belmont Stakes.

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PHNOM PENH, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Polls closed in the fifth commune elections in Cambodia on Sunday, a National Election Committee (NEC) member said.

"All 23,602 polling stations across the country closed as planned at 3 p.m. local time," NEC member Dim Sovannarom told Xinhua. "It's initially estimated that the voter turnout is more than 70 percent."

Sovannarom said the general situation on the polling day was good, and no remarkable incidents were reported.

Seventeen political parties contested in the polls, with the ruling Cambodian People's Party (CPP) of Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen and the opposition Candlelight Party being the major contestants.

The NEC said some 9.2 million people had registered to cast their ballots to choose commune chiefs and councilors for the country's 1,652 communes.

The preliminary election results are expected to be announced on Sunday evening and Monday morning, and the official results will be released on June 26.

Held once every five years, the commune elections are seen as a bellwether of the party's support ahead of the general elections in 2023.

In the last commune elections in June 2017, the ruling CPP swept 1,156 communes out of the then-1,646 communes. 
SHANGHAI, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Shanghai reported two confirmed locally transmitted COVID-19 cases and one asymptomatic case on Sunday, the municipal government told a press conference.

All the cases have been transferred to designated hospitals for treatment or medical observation.

Starting Monday, Shanghai requires residents entering public venues or taking public transportation to hold a negative nucleic acid test result within 72 hours or a certificate for nucleic acid sampling within 24 hours. 
A see-off ceremony for three Chinese astronauts of the Shenzhou-14 crewed space mission is held at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, June 5, 2022. Chinese astronauts Chen Dong (C), Liu Yang (R) and Cai Xuzhe will stay in space for about six months. (Xinhua/Li Gang)

JIUQUAN, June 5 (Xinhua) -- China on Sunday launched the crewed spaceship Shenzhou-14, sending three astronauts to its space station combination for a six-month mission.

The trio will cooperate with the ground team to complete the assembly and construction of the Tiangong space station, developing it from a single-module structure into a national space laboratory with three modules -- the core module Tianhe and two lab modules Wentian and Mengtian.

The spaceship, atop a Long March-2F carrier rocket, was lift off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China. 
A vehicle burned down in a wildfire is seen in Voula, a southern suburb of Athens, Greece, on June 4, 2022. A major wildfire broke out on Saturday afternoon in the southern coastal part of Athens, prompting a large response from the fire service as the blaze was reaching residential areas. (Xinhua/Marios Lolos)

ATHENS, June 4 (Xinhua) -- A major wildfire broke out on Saturday afternoon in the southern coastal part of Athens, prompting a large response from the fire service as the blaze was reaching residential areas.

Fanned by strong winds, the flames spread quickly across the foothills of Mount Hymettus in Glyfada and Voula regions, posing threat to inhabited areas.

The Civil Protection service issued an emergency 112 alert to residents of neighboring areas, urging them to evacuate their houses.

The fire seriously damaged four homes and burned cars, while one fireman was hospitalized with respiratory problems, according to authorities.

More than 100 firefighters aided by six firefighting aircraft and five helicopters dropped tones of water in an attempt to douse the blaze.

Greece suffers from many wildfires every summer due to high temperatures and arsonists.

In 2021, hundreds of blazes in the wider Athens region, the Peloponnese peninsula and Evia Island among others decimated more than 100,000 hectares of forestry and farmland in the wake of the country's worst heat wave in the last few decades.

In 2018, 102 people died in the coastal resort of Mati, near Athens, in Greece's worst-ever fire disaster. 

Firefighters battle a fire in a house in Voula, a southern suburb of Athens, Greece, on June 4, 2022. A major wildfire broke out on Saturday afternoon in the southern coastal part of Athens, prompting a large response from the fire service as the blaze was reaching residential areas. (Xinhua/Marios Lolos)

Firefighters battle a fire around a house in Voula, a southern suburb of Athens, Greece, on June 4, 2022. A major wildfire broke out on Saturday afternoon in the southern coastal part of Athens, prompting a large response from the fire service as the blaze was reaching residential areas. (Xinhua/Marios Lolos)

Smoke from a wildfire rises in Voula, a southern suburb of Athens, Greece, on June 4, 2022. A major wildfire broke out on Saturday afternoon in the southern coastal part of Athens, prompting a large response from the fire service as the blaze was reaching residential areas. (Xinhua/Marios Lolos)

A firefighter battles a wildfire in Voula, a southern suburb of Athens, Greece, on June 4, 2022. A major wildfire broke out on Saturday afternoon in the southern coastal part of Athens, prompting a large response from the fire service as the blaze was reaching residential areas. (Xinhua/Marios Lolos)

A firefighter battles a fire outside a house in Voula, a southern suburb of Athens, Greece, on June 4, 2022. A major wildfire broke out on Saturday afternoon in the southern coastal part of Athens, prompting a large response from the fire service as the blaze was reaching residential areas. (Xinhua/Marios Lolos)

A firefighter battles a fire outside a house in Voula, a southern suburb of Athens, Greece, on June 4, 2022. A major wildfire broke out on Saturday afternoon in the southern coastal part of Athens, prompting a large response from the fire service as the blaze was reaching residential areas. (Xinhua/Marios Lolos)

A firefighter battles a fire outside a house in Voula, a southern suburb of Athens, Greece, on June 4, 2022. A major wildfire broke out on Saturday afternoon in the southern coastal part of Athens, prompting a large response from the fire service as the blaze was reaching residential areas. (Xinhua/Marios Lolos)
BEIJING, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping and Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou exchanged congratulatory messages on Sunday to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries.

Xi pointed out that for half a century the two sides, with a historical perspective, have been keeping with the trend of the times, firmly supported each other on issues involving their respective core interests and major concerns, worked together in the joint construction of the Belt and Road in a spirit of openness and win-win cooperation, and carried forward the wisdom of the time-honored civilizations and the Olympic spirit, which have brought tangible benefits to the two countries and their people and set a good example of mutual learning among civilizations for the international community.

Xi stressed that he attaches great importance to the development of China-Greece relations, and stands ready to work with President Sakellaropoulou to take the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties as an opportunity to deepen the traditional friendship, expand practical cooperation, promote cultural exchanges and enrich the connotation of the China-Greece comprehensive strategic partnership, so as to benefit the two countries and their people.

In her message, Sakellaropoulou said that over the past five decades since the establishment of diplomatic relations, Greece and China have nurtured bilateral relations featuring cooperation and friendship in the spirit of mutual understanding and mutual respect.

She expressed the confidence that both sides will join hands to advance the grand goal of promoting dialogue among civilizations and safeguarding world peace.

Also on Sunday, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis exchanged congratulatory messages.

Li said China is ready to work with Greece and take the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties as a new start to consolidate political mutual trust and continuously deepen cooperation in such fields as infrastructure, marine transport and new energy, so as to promote big strides in the China-Greece comprehensive strategic partnership and take it to even higher levels.

For his part, Mitsotakis said the solid friendship and high-level cooperation between Greece and China have set a good example for countries across the world.

The prime minister extended the hope that the two countries take the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties as an opportunity to enhance cooperation in global affairs and push for sustained development of bilateral relations. 




NAIROBI, June 4 (Xinhua) -- As millions of people celebrate World Environment Day which falls on Sunday, wildlife professionals in Kenya are calling for awareness in protecting the country's large numbers of wild animals and their habitats.

Kenneth Kimitei, a wildlife biologist and landscape ecologist for Africa Wildlife Foundation, a leading international conservation organization focusing on Africa's wildlife, said the protection of the ecosystems is critical.

While echoing Kimitei's opinion, Carol Mwebia, the deputy senior warden of Lake Nakuru National Park known for thousands of flamingoes, said that all measures possible are being taken to protect the ecosystems. Enditem
SHENYANG, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Crawling through thick clumps of reeds and grass, Yu Lian, an ornithologist in northeast China's Liaoning Province, had a pleasant encounter with a 1.5-meter-tall red-crowned crane whose beak clamped a long stem of a reed.

Without the slightest hesitation, the wild crane crouched swiftly and spread and shook its wings, an attacking posture.

Although Yu knew that the pounce of the crane, whose bone density is several times that of human beings, would break his ribs with no difficulty, his delight still outweighed his fear.

Its manifest nesting behavior and unusual vigilance indicated that the red-crowned crane had engaged in breeding, which has not been observed around the estuary of the Daling River, Jinzhou City of Liaoning Province, for 14 years.

The endangered red-crowned crane is under national first-class protection. And the wetlands around the estuary of the Daling River are regarded as one of the southernmost breeding grounds worldwide for these rare birds.

According to Yu, also the vice president of Jinzhou wildlife and wetland protection association, due to environmental changes and human activities, there has been no record of the endangered birds' breeding since 2009 around the estuary of the Daling River.

"We found the first two birdlings were born on May 12 and 13, respectively," said Yu. "After half a month, they grew up a lot and were able to run around."

So far, the breeding process of four pairs of red-crowned cranes had been observed. The birdlings of three pairs had successfully hatched, said Zu Fengkun, director of the local forestry and grassland bureau.

Yu added that red-crowned cranes' low fertility of only two eggs per nest and low survival rate of nestlings led to a slow rate of reproduction.

"Red-crowned cranes are picky about the breeding grounds," said Guo Yumin, a professor from Beijing Forestry University. "They need enough food, good biodiversity, and particularly the safety of the surrounding environment."

The recurrence of natural breeding of the red-crowned cranes in the area demonstrates that the ecological environment of the Daling River estuary has undergone fundamental changes in recent years, becoming suitable for the endangered birds' breeding again, said Guo.

"Ten years ago, when we started the wetland restoration project of the area, it suffered from salinization and coastal erosion. It made it almost a barren beach with sparse vegetation," said Pei Qiang, the general manager of the Daling River estuary wetland park.

"In contrast, now the wetland salinity has been greatly reduced, and reeds have recovered an area of 22 square km, three times larger than before," said Pei.

He added that the wetlands conservation made the area a paradise for wildlife to breed and winter. Over ten species are under national first-class protection, and more than 50 are under second-class protection in the wetland park, including oriental white storks and great bustards (Otis tarda).

Jinzhou City is located along a primary bird migration corridor, welcoming millions of wild migratory birds annually. From 2016 to 2020, local authorities have restored over 2,666 hectares of wetlands, bringing the number of bird species spotted in the city to more than 370. 
AMMAN, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Jordanian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi on Sunday highlighted the importance for the United Nations to continue its full mandate of a body to provide essential services to Palestinian refugees.

Safadi made the remarks during a meeting in Amman with Philippe Lazzarini, commissioner-general of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), the UN body that provides relief to Palestinian refugees.

During the meeting, Safadi also stressed the importance of providing necessary financial support to the UN body to overcome its recurrent budget deficit and enable it to offer services to refugees in the educational, health, and relief sectors, as well as other services mentioned in its UN mandate, according to a statement by the Jordanian Foreign Ministry.

Jordan will continue to work with international and regional partners to provide support to UNRWA, Safadi was quoted as saying in the statement.

The Jordanian official also expressed his opposition to any changes to UNRWA's mandate or reductions in the services it provides for refugees, noting providing these services is the agency's exclusive responsibility.

Praising Jordan's increased and continuous efforts to mobilize political and financial support for UNRWA, Lazzarini emphasized the need for the international community to honor its financial commitments to the UN agency. 
ADDIS ABABA, June 4 (Xinhua) -- The African Union (AU) on Saturday expressed deep concern over the worsening security and humanitarian situations in the Sahel region.

The statement was made by the AU's Peace and Security Council in a communique issued Saturday that followed its recent meeting on the situation in the Sahel.

The council "expresses deep concern over the rapid deterioration of the security, political, and humanitarian situations in the Sahel region, particularly the continuation of terrorist attacks and the surge in fatalities, as well as the socio-economic challenges which have continued to affect the peace, stability and development of the region," an AU statement read.

It reiterated the AU's deep concern over the expansion of the threat of terrorism from the Sahel region toward the Gulf of Guinea countries coupled with the mutually reinforcing link between terrorism and unconstitutional changes of government. It also warned about the prevailing multidimensional socioeconomic challenges such as community grievances, underdevelopment, climate change impact, and governance deficit and humanitarian crisis compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Strongly condemns all attacks by terrorists, armed and criminal groups against civilians, security institutions of the countries of the region, as well as the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali and other international forces," the council said.

Meanwhile, it commended the efforts deployed by the G5 Sahel Joint Force and its member states in degrading the fighting capacity of the terrorist, armed and criminal groups operating in the Sahel region, while appealing for intensification of efforts in the mobilization of additional resources for the joint force.

It also commended international partners for their continued financial and technical support to the efforts of the G5 Sahel Joint Force, as well as to efforts aimed at addressing the dire humanitarian situation in the Sahel region. 
KIGALI, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Rwandans on Saturday commemorated families that were completely wiped out during the 1994 genocide against Tutsi.

The event was part of the 28th commemoration of the genocide, in which more than one million people, mainly ethnic Tutsis and moderate Hutus, were killed.

To date, 15,593 families, with 68,871 people in total, are known to have been completely wiped out, across the country, Dimitrie Sissi, vice president of an umbrella association of genocide survivors, told an event at Kigali Genocide Memorial.

She said that survivors have taken on the responsibility of preserving the memory of the wiped-out families to ensure that all of them are known and never forgotten.

Reading aloud the names of the wiped-out families was part of the ceremony at Kigali Genocide Memorial, attended by residents and government officials.

Remembering completely wiped out families is a strong measure to fight genocide denial and trivialization while honoring the memory of the victims, Minister of Youth and Culture Rosemary Mbabazi said.

Stressing the notion of "never again," the minister said remembering genocide victims is everyone's responsibility. 
The 2022 Triple Crown season is about to wrap up this coming Sunday at the 2022 Belmont Stakes. There will not be a Triple Crown winner this year, but Rich Strike, the winner of the 2022 Kentucky Derby, is returning in hopes of securing another win. Will there be a sleeper horse whod pull off a Rich Strike this weekend?

Register here to make your Belmont Stakes picks

Sleeper Picks and Predictions for the 2022 Belmont Stakes

Where: Belmont Park Elmont, New York, United States

When: Saturday, June 11, 2022

Lines: View all 2022 Belmont Stakes lines

Triple Crown Lines: Odds on a Triple Crown winner in 2022

TV Broadcast: NBC / NBC Sports

Todd Pletcher has more than one horse racing at the upcoming 2022 Belmont Stakes. Apart from favorite Mo Donegal, Pletcher also has Nest, whos got longer odds than Mo Donegal, but should be an attractive horse for those looking to lay action on a sleeper. The 3-year-old filly has produced some sensational results since she started racing in 2021. Nest broke maiden in her very first race and then won two graded stakes races, namely the Grade 2 Demoiselle and the Grade 1 Ashland. In between those wins was another victory at the Suncoast Stakes. The last time Nest galloped was at the Grade 1 Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs where he placed runner-up.

Barber Road (+1200)

Although Barber Road finished just sixth at the 2022 Kentucky Derby, that was actually a quality run from the John A. Ortiz-trained 3-year-old colt, considering the odds he was given. In any case, Barber Road does seem to have the chops to make noise at the 2022 Belmont Stakes. For one, he has shown in seven of nine overall starts. His best finishes to date were a win in a maiden claiming race at Keeneland and a victory at a stakes trial race at Churchill Downs. Then Barber Road also shown in three consecutive graded stakes races prior to the 2022 Kentucky Derby, placing second at the Grade 3 Southwest Stakes, third at Grade 2 Rebel Stakes, and runner-up at Grade 1 Arkansas Derby.

Skippylongstocking will be up against tough competition at the 2022 Belmont Stakes, but what makes him an intriguing sleeper is his endurance, which is a key factor in the third leg of the Triple Crown. Not known to be the type of horse that burns his boosters for an early shot at the lead, Skippylongstocking instead is one that would rather keep its race steady before unloading everything its got in the final stretch. Trained by Saffie A. Joseph Jr., Skippylongstocking finished third at the Grade 2 Wood Memorial behind Belmont Stakes winner Mo Donegal and Early Voting. Skippylongstocking also finished fifth at the 2022 Preakness Stakes.

Register here to make your Belmont Stakes sleeper picks

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CAIRO, June 4 (Xinhua) -- The amount of electricity generated from renewable energy in Egypt increased from 8.7 billion kWh in 2019/2020 to 10.2 billion kWh in 2020/2021, marking a year-on-year increase of 17.2 percent, Egypt's official statistics agency said on Saturday.

"Egypt has the largest wind and solar energy capacity in the Middle East and North Africa," according to a report issued by the country's Central Agency for Public Mobilization and Statistics (CAPMAS) on the eve of the World Environment Day, which is marked by the United Nations on June 5 every year.

The number of natural gas-powered cars in Egypt increased by 20.6 percent from 42,292 cars in 2019/2020 to 51,000 cars in 2020/2021, according to the report.

Egypt is heading toward a higher usage of renewable energy as part of its Egypt Vision 2030 agenda.

Over the past few years, Egypt has been building the Benban Solar Energy Park in the southern province of Aswan, which is one of the world's largest solar plants.

Egypt will also host the 27th United Nations Climate Change Conference later this year in Sharm el-Sheikh, a Red Sea resort city. 
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (Front) addresses an event to honor Ethiopian police forces in Meskel Square in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on June 5, 2022. (Xinhua/Michael Tewelde)

ADDIS ABABA, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Ethiopia on Sunday honor its police forces in recognition of their "outstanding services" in safeguarding the nation.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, addressing an event, said the police have played a significant role not only in protecting Ethiopia from imminent national security threats that jeopardize the country's sovereignty, but also in terms of realizing ongoing efforts to build a peaceful and prosperous nation.

He said the government's prime aspiration is to build a well-organized and technologically modernized security apparatus with an overarching goal of protecting Ethiopia and its national interest against forces that want to tarnish the country's sovereignty.

Ethiopia is engaged in building institutions that should serve as the basis for Ethiopia's transition to prosperity, Ahmed said, adding that his government is working to build a prosperous and peaceful country for the next generation.

Demelash Gebremichael, commissioner general of the Federal Police Commission, said Ethiopia's 80-year-old police force has successfully safeguarded the country from distractive forces by working in tandem with the Ethiopian National Defense Forces and regional security forces.

Gebremichael said the Ethiopian Federal Police is being equipped with the latest security technologies and that efforts have augmented the police force's investigation capacity and efficiency. 

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (C) and other officials attend an event to honor Ethiopian police forces in Meskel Square in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on June 5, 2022. (Xinhua/Michael Tewelde)

Police officers march during an event to honor Ethiopian police forces in Meskel Square in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on June 5, 2022. (Xinhua/Wang Ping)

Police officers march during an event to honor Ethiopian police forces in Meskel Square in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on June 5, 2022. (Xinhua/Michael Tewelde)

Police officers march during an event to honor Ethiopian police forces in Meskel Square in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on June 5, 2022. (Xinhua/Michael Tewelde)

Police officers march during an event to honor Ethiopian police forces in Meskel Square in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on June 5, 2022. (Xinhua/Wang Ping)

A police officer in an armored vehicle is seen during an event to honor Ethiopian police forces in Meskel Square in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on June 5, 2022. (Xinhua/Wang Ping)

Police officers march during an event to honor Ethiopian police forces in Meskel Square in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on June 5, 2022. (Xinhua/Wang Ping)

Demelash Gebremichael (at the podium), commissioner general of the Ethiopian Federal Police Commission, addresses an event to honor Ethiopian police forces in Meskel Square in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on June 5, 2022. (Xinhua/Michael Tewelde)

Police officers march during an event to honor Ethiopian police forces in Meskel Square in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on June 5, 2022. (Xinhua/Michael Tewelde)

Police officers march during an event to honor Ethiopian police forces in Meskel Square in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on June 5, 2022. (Xinhua/Michael Tewelde)
People gather in front of a church that is attacked by unidentified gunmen in the town of Owo, Ondo state, Nigeria, June 5, 2022. Unidentified gunmen have killed scores of worshippers following an attack on a church in Nigeria's southwestern state of Ondo on Sunday, according to various sources. The attack took place in Owo, as many worshippers gathered at the church during the morning mass on Sunday, multiple sources said. (Photo by Adewale Ogunyemi/Xinhua)

ABUJA, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Unidentified gunmen have killed scores of worshippers following an attack on a church in Nigeria's southwestern state of Ondo on Sunday, according to various sources.

The attack took place in Owo, a town in Ondo state, as many worshippers gathered at the church during the morning mass on Sunday, multiple sources said.

A government official who spoke on the condition of anonymity told Xinhua by telephone that the gunmen first detonated explosives near the church altar before firing at the worshippers and killing scores of them on the spot.

The official said it is difficult to put a number to the casualties, as security operatives rushed to the scene to rescue worshippers. He said injured victims were rushed to a government-run hospital in Owo town.

Ondu state governor Arakunrin Akeredolu confirmed the attack but provided no details on the casualties or the identities of the attackers.

In a statement, the governor said he is "deeply saddened by the unprovoked attack and killing of innocent people of Owo, worshipping at the St. Francis Catholic Church, today."

Akeredolu urged the locals to "remain calm and vigilant" as security forces are deployed to monitor and restore normalcy to the town. 

Photo taken on June 5, 2022 shows a broken window damaged during an attack on a church by unidentified gunmen in the town of Owo, Ondo state, Nigeria. Unidentified gunmen have killed scores of worshippers following an attack on a church in Nigeria's southwestern state of Ondo on Sunday, according to various sources. The attack took place in Owo, as many worshippers gathered at the church during the morning mass on Sunday, multiple sources said. (Photo by Adewale Ogunyemi/Xinhua)
ALGIERS, June 4 (Xinhua) -- Two young men were found dead on an Air Algerie plane stationing at the International Airport of Algiers on Saturday, Algeria's General Directorate of National Security said in a statement.

"Two male bodies, aged 20 and 23, were discovered Saturday at 5:00 am (4:00 GMT), on a plane belonging to the state-owned Air Algerie carrier, which was on the tarmac of the International Airport of Algiers," reads the statement.

An investigation has been launched to determine the facts behind the "tragedy," it adds.

The two men snuck into the plane with the aim of illegally reaching Europe, local media reported.

According to media reports, the plane flew from Algiers to Barcelona and then to Dubai on Friday, but it wasn't until the plane returned to Algeria that the airline staff discovered the two bodies. 
MOGADISHU, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Somali National Army (SNA) forces killed a senior commander of al-Shabab on Saturday in an operation in southwest Somalia, the military said.

The SNA commanders who led the operation told Somali National Television on Sunday that Mohamed Nur Ga'al, also known as Sheikh Al-Sima, was killed near El-unit, in Tiyeglow town in Bakool region.

The state-owned broadcaster said that Nur was a senior Shabab leader responsibility for a series of terror attacks in Bay and Bakool regions.

Bakool is one of the strongholds of the Qaida-affiliated terrorist group.

Somali security forces, backed by African Union peacekeeping troops, have intensified their assault against al-Shabab, as part of efforts to stabilize the the country. 
HANOI, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Vietnam recorded 685 new COVID-19 cases on Sunday, down 196 from Saturday, according to the Ministry of Health.

All the new infections were domestically transmitted cases reported in 36 provinces and cities.

The Vietnamese capital Hanoi was the pandemic hotspot with 207 new cases recorded on Sunday, followed by the northern provinces of Yen Bai with 79 cases and Vinh Phuc with 46 cases.

The newly registered infections brought the total tally to 10,725,239 with 43,080 deaths. Nationwide, as many as 9,504,955 COVID-19 patients, or nearly 89 percent of the infections, have so far recovered.

More than 222 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines have been administered in the Southeast Asian country, including over 199.7 million shots on people aged 18 and above, according to the ministry.

Vietnam has by far gone through four coronavirus waves of increasing scale, complication, and infectivity. As of Sunday, it has registered more than 10.7 million locally transmitted COVID-19 cases since the start of the current wave of infections in April 2021, said the ministry. 
PORT MORESBY, June 4 (Xinhua) -- Soroi Eoe, minister of foreign affairs and international trade of Papua New Guinea (PNG), has hailed the win-win cooperation between PNG and China.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, Eoe said that what China has been doing is supportive for socio-economic development in South Pacific region, especially for Papua New Guinea.

He said PNG and other Pacific island countries have long been treated as exporters of raw materials, and some countries imposed restrictions on PNG through laws and treaties, deliberately making it dependent on importing countries.

He said PNG has exported nearly 80 percent of its resources as raw materials over the past several decades, but its economy has remained weak, and education and health services have lagged behind. He stressed that PNG has the right to protect its own resources and say no.

He said PNG was willing to work with those who are keen to help it in an equal, fair and sharing way, adding that China is willing to increase cooperation with PNG, especially to help the country develop its processing industry, expand exports of manufactured products and speed up its modernization, which is welcomed by PNG.

Every proposal by China is for mutual benefit, not for exploitation, Eoe said, hoping that other major countries could follow suit.

PNG hopes to strengthen synergy with China, expand opportunities, develop the economy and create more jobs, he said, adding that PNG should not be a bystander, nor should it be left behind.

PNG wants to be a participant and builder in the world, and achieve common development, he said. 
THE HAGUE, June 4 (Xinhua) -- Dutch airline KLM no longer transports passengers from European destinations to Schiphol for at least the whole day, the Dutch airline announced on Saturday.

According to KLM, there are currently too many passengers who cannot depart from Schiphol and this must first be resolved. Just like in recent weeks long queues with travelers arose at Schiphol all day long as a result of staff shortages at the airport.

"To ensure safe and workable operations at Schiphol for passengers and crew, KLM took the far-reaching decision that no further passengers would be brought to Amsterdam," KLM said on Saturday. "This decision was taken to ensure that as many stranded passengers as possible can depart from Schiphol on Saturday and that KLM can operate as many flights as possible on Sunday."

The number of passengers who were unable to depart from Amsterdam increased sharply during the day and a large number of KLM flights on Saturday were delayed or canceled.

Although a substantial package of measures was taken before the weekend, with among others the cancellation of 50 flights per day this weekend, KLM stated that more and more aircraft could not land or take off in Amsterdam due to unforeseen circumstances, such as "unfavorable weather conditions and runway maintenance at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol."

"KLM offers its sincere apologies to passengers who were unable to travel to Amsterdam from certain European destinations, as well as those who were unable to transfer via Amsterdam to other final destinations," KLM added. 
MOSCOW, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Russian forces have destroyed T-72 tanks and other armored vehicles supplied by Eastern European countries near Kiev, Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov said Sunday.

"High-precision, long-range air-based missiles of the Russian Aerospace Forces have destroyed T-72 tanks and other armored vehicles, which were housed in the buildings of an auto repair facility on the outskirts of Kiev," Konashenkov told a briefing.

According to earlier reports, Kiev Mayor Vitali Klitschko said at least one person was injured in rocket strikes on Ukraine's capital Sunday morning.

The attacks hit infrastructure facilities in Darnytskyi and Dniprovskyi districts on the left bank of the Dnieper River, Klitschko told The Telegram.

Specifically, railway infrastructure facilities were hit, according to Serhiy Leshchenko, a member of the supervisory board of the Ukrainian State Railways. 
WASHINGTON, June 5 (Xinhua) -- At least three people died and 11 others were injured after a shooting in the U.S. city of Philadelphia late Saturday night.

Police said "several active shooters" opened fire at a crowd in a popular nightlife area in Philadelphia, the largest city in the state of Pennsylvania.

Fourteen people were taken to hospital, where two men and a woman were pronounced dead, according to police.

Two automatic handguns were recovered from the scene, including one with an extended magazine. There have been no arrests made so far.

The shooting is the latest in a rash of deadly attacks that have shocked the United States over the past few weeks.

Last month, an 18-year-old gunman fatally shot 19 students and two teachers at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas. 
With digital healthcare in the region growing at a CAGR of 12.8 per cent, healthcare industry stakeholders in the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) are getting ready to attend 3rd Digital Health Mena Conference on June 7, 2022.

More than 150 industry experts and officials will discuss the latest issues relating to digital healthcare in the Mena region at the day-long 3rd Digital Health Mena Conference at the Le Meridien Dubai Airport Hotel, Dubai, UAE, organised by Cogent Solutions Event Management (CS Events).

The conference will host more than 25 expert speakers who will debate more than 20 problem-solving topics. Officials from more than 90 business entities will participate at the event.

This significant conference will discuss many important regulatory issues relating to digital healthcare such as e-prescription, 3D printing of healthcare devices, remote diagnosis, tele-consultation, among other issues.

Remote healthcare market to hit $1.8 billion by 2024

The remote healthcare market in the Mena region was valued at $989 million in 2019, and was projected to reach $1.8 billion in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 12.8 per cent, according to the 2020 Global Ventures Digital Health report.

With approximately 400 million people in pandemic-hit Mena region lacking access to essential medical services, health technology (healthtech) solutions rose to shed the burden off traditional healthcare systems.

Some of the key issues faced by the industry that will come up for discussions will include, but not be limited to: Managing massive volumes of patient data; Safeguarding and securing critical data; Designing new processes and Investing and adopting the right technology.

Massive investments

The 3rd Digital Health Mena Conference takes place against the backdrop of massive investment into digital health start-ups in 2021, propelled in large part by the shift to virtual care during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The first nine months of 2021 alone brought in a total of $21.3 billion for digital health startups across 541 investment deals, dwarfing the $14.6 billion record of 2020, according to Rock Health, a venture fund dedicated to digital health.

That momentum is projected to continue in 2022 as digital health companies lead the way in healthcare innovation with the use of artificial intelligence, machine learning, data analytics and telehealth.

The conference is getting strong response from the healthcare stakeholders as they are keen to understand the new-normal system in the healthcare industry and upgrade themselves in line with the latest developments in the post-Covid-19 era, Nizam Deen, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of CS Events  organisers of the 3rd Digital Health Mena, says.

Latest trends

Most healthcare professionals are eager to understand the latest trends, equipment, tools and systems that are changing the healthcare sector  in order for them to catch up with the latest trends.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic the healthcare industry has seen wide adoption of digital transformation. Thanks to technology, patients got better treatment with virtual reality tools, wearable medical devices, telehealth, and 5G mobile technology.

Understanding the importance of digital transformation healthcare providers adopted, EHR systems for digital transformation purposes in healthcare, mainly to enhance patient care, improve efficiency saving time, minimising (the risk of) errors and improving staff productivity.

The Forum will bring together thought leaders of healthcare ecosystem from both public and private healthcare entities, including but not limited to health ministries, private healthcare institutions, digital health experts, researchers, and businesses to discuss their experiences and lessons learned and emphasise the vital role of digital health in the fight against these unprecedented times and also adopting Digital Transformation as a lifestyle to accomplish a promising future vision; namely, delivering best-quality integrated and comprehensive healthcare system.-- TradeArabia News Service
Amid rumours of a conspiracy to assassinate former Prime Minister Imran Khan in Pakistan, the Islamabad Police Department on Saturday night said security agencies have been put on high alert in areas adjoining the Bani Gala in the city. On Saturday, a spokesman for the Islamabad Police said section 144 had already been imposed in Islamabad and meetings had been banned. Security has been beefed up and a high alert has been sounded in the area in view of the possible arrival of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) President Imran Khan at Bani Gala.

However, so far, Islamabad police have not received any confirmed news of Imran Khan's return from the team. The Security Division has deployed special security at Bani Gala. The list of people at the Bani Gala has not yet been received by the police. Section 144 is in force in Islamabad and as per the order of the district magistrate, no Jamaat is allowed. The police said the Islamabad Police will provide full security to Imran Khan as per the law and mutual cooperation is also expected from Imran Khan's security teams.

The Security Division has deployed special security at Bani Gala. The list of people at the Bani Gala has not yet been received by the police. Section 144 is in force in Islamabad and as per the order of the district magistrate, no Jamaat is allowed. The police said Islamabad police will provide full security to Imran Khan as per the law and mutual help is also expected from Imran Khan's security teams. Imran Khan's nephew Hasan Niazi said if something happens to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief, the act will be considered an attack on Pakistan. The response will be aggressive  the handlers will regret it too.

World Environment Day: PM Modi to join Save Soil movement today

One person urinated on the other during a fight on a plane

Centre urges to states to phase out Single Use Plastic
Russian cruise missile flows extremely low over Pivdennoukrainsk NPP, says Energoatom 5 June, 02:53 PM Pivdennoukrainsk NPP (Photo:Energoatom)

A Russian Kalibr-type cruise missile flew extremely low over the Pivdennoukrainsk Nuclear Power Plant in Mykolaiv, Ukraine's state-owned Energoatom nuclear energy company said in a Telegram messenger post on June 5.

The company described the low-level flyover, which occurred at about 5.30 a.m. on June 5, as another act of nuclear terrorism by Russia.

This missile was likely on its way to the Ukrainian capital city of Kyiv where explosions occurred this morning, it said.

"To date, Russia continues to pose a threat to the nuclear safety of Ukrainian NPPs and threatens the world with a new nuclear catastrophe," Energoatom said.

 

"The 'Rashists' (Russian fascists) still don't understand that even the smallest fragment of a missile, if it hit a working reactor, might cause a nuclear disaster and radiation leak."

This is not the first time Russia has fired cruise missiles right over a Ukrainian nuclear power plant.

Just over a month ago, on April 26, two Russian cruise missile flew at low altitude over the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant in Enerhodar, Zaporizhzhya Oblast, on their way to strike targets in Zaporizhzhya.

Energoatom at that time also warned of the dangers of flying cruise missiles at such low altitude over operating nuclear reactors.

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Ukraines Foreign Ministry reacts to insults against Zelensky by Hungarian parliamentarian 5 June, 05:54 PM Ukrainian Foreign Ministry calls on Laszlo Kever to provide "certificate of mental health" (Photo:444.hu)

The spokesman of Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has hit back on his Facebook page in reaction to insulting statements from the speaker of the Hungarian Parliament Laszlo Kever regarding the mental health of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Kever made the statements in a recent interview with Hungarian media. He was commenting on President Zelenskys latest appeals for aid from Ukraines allies.

"Usually, those who need help ask for it politely  persistently, but ask, not demand or threaten. One usually threatens enemies, not those they want to have as friends. There is a personal mental problem here," Kever said.

 

In turn, Foreign Ministry spokesman Oleg Nikolenko said such accusations were based on the pro-Kremlin position of a number of Hungarian politicians, who "persistently continue to throw mud at Ukraine and whitewash the crimes of the Russian Federation."

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine is waiting for the publication of a certificate on the state of the mental health of the Speaker of the Hungarian Parliament Laszlo Kever. Further assessment of the words of Mr. Kever directly depends on the conclusion recorded in the certificate, Nikolenko wrote on his Facebook page.

He posted a similar comment on Twitter.

Nikolenko also said that such loyalty to the Russian Federation did not surprise him, "after all, historically, Hungary has more than once oriented itself towards the side of evil."

While Hungary's President Katalin Novak has officially condemned Russias aggression, Prime Minister Viktor Orban and some other Hungarian officials have opposed increased sanctions pressure on the Kremlin regime.

Read also: Who buys Russian oil

In particular, Budapest has long been blocking an EU oil embargo against the Russian Federation. Orban said it would jeopardize energy security and called the new sanctions package a "historic mistake."

In the end, the EU imposed only a partial ban on Russian oil imports, making an exception for pipeline supplies  the means by which Hungary takes delivery of the Russian oil it buys.

Besides that, Hungary has opposed sanctions against the head of the Russian Orthodox Church, Patriarch Kirill, who has openly supported the Kremlins aggression.

In addition, Hungary banned the transportation of defensive weapons to Ukraine through its territory.

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Home  Lifestyle  Art  Agrajka Bimbaharu: Veteran artists of Nepal take you to the past at this exhibition

When Animesh Singh, a 12th-grader recently visited the ongoing art exhibition, Agrajka Bimbaharu, he felt a sense of deja vu.

Growing up in the Kathmandu valley, I have heard that people would go to fetch water at stone spouts, wash their clothes and do other things. But, that was only in my imagination, he says, However, seeing those activities in the form of art in artist Shyam Lal Shresthas painting has helped me confirm my imagination and explore the past heritage of local people.

At the exhibition ongoing at Nepal Art Council, Babermahal, Shresthas painting with oil on canvas shows four women in traditional Newa attires, busy doing their chores at the stone tap. He has used hues like green, yellow, blue, white and black in an abstract cubic form.

I am originally from India, but I have been living here since I was five years old. The exhibition has helped me understand the culture of Newa people, shares Singh.

Organised by Pagoda Group and the Sushil Koirala Memorial Foundation, Agrajka Bimbaharu began on May 31. The title of the exhibition is apt as the seven-day exhibition features artworks created during the 1960s and 70s till now.

A variety from the veterans

Agrajka Bimbaharu, an art exhibition in Kathmandu in June 2022. Photo: Aryan Dhimal

Agrajka Bimbaharu has a display of paintings, sculptures and more by veteran contemporary Nepali artists. Most of the artists have used religious motifs to show the rich natural and cultural heritage of Nepal in realistic and abstract forms.

The organisers have showcased 68 paintings by 30 veteran artists in the exhibition, making it one of a kind exhibition as their works are rarely exhibited, which aims to honour these artists.

Late artist Tej Bahadur Chitrakars painting titled Bajrabarahi Shrine using oil on canvas in a realistic form is one of such paintings featured in the exhibition for the first time.

Late artist Tej Bahadur Chitrakars painting Bajrabarahi Shrine, exhibited at Agrajka Bimbaharu, an art exhibition, in Kathmandu, in June 2022. Photo: Sangita Shrestha

As you enter the gallery, the first thing you will see is the paintings of late prominent artistsTej Bahadur Chitrakar, Lain Singh Bangdel, Manuj Babu Mishra, Puran Khadka and Uttam Nepaliwho contributed to the development of Nepali contemporary art field.

Some specialities

Paintings of late veteran artists of Nepal exhibited at Agrajka Bimbaharu, an art exhibition, in Kathmandu, in June 2022. Photo: Sangita Shrestha

Moreover, the exhibition features only two veteran women artistsShahi Kala Tiwari and Dr Seema Sharma Shahs paintings. This is special because Tiwaris paintings are also very rarely seen in exhibitions.

Two of Shashi Kala Tiwaris artworks exhibited at Agrajka Bimbaharu, in Kathmandu, in June 2022. Photo: Aryan Dhimal

According to artist Roshan Pradhan, one of the founders of Pagoda Group, the idea of the exhibition was conceived during the Covid lockdown. About featuring only two women veteran artists in the exhibition, he shares, We tried to get other women veteran artists work as well but unfortunately, our efforts went futile.

Moreover, the exhibition has given a chance to understand the artworks of veteran artists which seem to be like a mini-museum.

About the exhibition, one of the participating veteran artists Shyam Lal Shrestha expresses, I am very happy with the exhibition where I have shared the same platform as veteran artists of Nepal. I did not expect the organiser to get this fantastic collection. One can understand the development of Nepali art by viewing the exhibition.

The exhibition continues till Monday (June 6).
The war against Covid is not over yet, and an outbreak of monkeypox has begun to invoke panic globally. However, unlike with Covid during the early days of 2020, scientists already know much important information regarding monkeypox. So here are things you should know about this viral disease with a focus on how challenging it is for Nepal.

What is monkeypox?

Monkeypox is a rare disease that is transmitted from animals to humans and is caused by infection with the monkeypox virus. Its symptoms are comparable to smallpox but are less severe. While smallpox was eradicated in 1980, monkeypox continues to occur in areas of central and west Africa.

Monkeypox primarily occurs as endemic in Cameroon, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Nigeria, the Republic of Congo, Sierra Leone, and South Sudan, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).

What is the monkeypox virus?

Monkeypox virus belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus, which belongs to the Poxviridae family. The Orthopoxvirus genus includes the variola virus (causes smallpox), vaccinia virus (used in the smallpox vaccine), and cowpox virus. The monkeypox virus is a large, enveloped, brick-shaped virus with a linear, double-stranded DNA genome and enzymes needed for uncoating and replication.

The virus is currently divided into two clades: the more virulent Congo Basin clade (up to 10% mortality) and the less virulent West African clade (up to 1% mortality). The Congo Basin clade was thought to be more transmissible and to have caused more severe diseases in the past. So far, the West African clade has been linked to all confirmed cases in the May 2022 outbreak.

Historical developments

1958: The disease was named monkeypox after two outbreaks of a pox-like disease in monkeys kept for research in Copenhagen, Denmark.

1970: During a period of intensified effort to eradicate smallpox, the first reported case of monkeypox in people was observed in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

1985: Monkeypox virus was isolated from an ill African rodent (rope squirrel) in the DRC.

2003: An outbreak of monkeypox was reported in the United States (US) infecting 70 people. All people infected with the virus became ill after contacting pet prairie dogs co-housed with infected Gambian pouched rats and dormice. Human monkeypox had never been reported outside of Africa before.

2012: Monkeypox virus was isolated from a dead infant mangabey monkey in Cote dIvoire, West Africa.

July 15, 2021: A case of human monkeypox was confirmed by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Texas Department of State Health Services in a US citizen who travelled from Nigeria to the US on two commercial flights.

November 16, 2021: A case was confirmed in a Maryland resident who recently returned to the US from Nigeria.

May 7, 2022: A confirmed case of human infection was detected in the United Kingdom.

2022 outbreak

The monkeypox outbreak in May 2022. Photo: Wikimedia Commons

According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), a multi-country outbreak of monkeypox started in early May, with a total of 257 confirmed cases reported worldwide (across 23 countries) as of May 26, 2022, where the disease is not considered endemic. The list can go long owing to the chances of the spread of this virus throughout the globe.

Reservoirs of the virus

Despite the name monkeypox, monkeys are not the primary reservoirs of the virus. Rope squirrels, tree squirrels, Gambian pouched rats, dormice, and non-human primates are thought to harbour the virus. Monkeypoxs natural reservoir has yet to be identified. African rodents and non-human primates (such as monkeys) may, nevertheless, carry the virus and infect humans.

How is it transmitted?

The virus is spread when a person comes into contact with the monkeypox virus from an animal, a human, or contaminated objects. The virus enters the body through broken skin, the respiratory tract, or mucous membranes (eyes, nose, or mouth). The animal-to-human transmission can occur by the bite or scratch, direct contact with body fluids or lesions, or indirect contact with lesion material. The principal mode of human-to-human transmission is thought to be large respiratory droplets. Because respiratory droplets can only travel a few feet, it is necessary to maintain extended face-to-face contact. It can be spread through direct contact with body fluids, skin lesions, and internal mucosal surfaces such as the mouth and throat. Curiously, instances of monkeypox have been concentrated in men who have sex with men during the May 2022 outbreak. To date, it is uncertain if the disease may spread specifically through sexual transmission routes; this is still being investigated.

Should Nepal be worried?

The world has witnessed several emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases spread well beyond their previously identified geographic territories whether it be Zika or Ebola. The recent rapid dissemination of SARS-CoV-2 throughout the world is one of the biggest incidents that has happened in human history. The increase in global mobility of humans, nonhuman animals and plants from one corner of the world to the extreme another corner has opened the door for any pathogen to enter any part of the world, and Nepal is not an exception.

File: Ministry of Health and Population

Though monkeypox has not been reported in Nepal so far, we should be very conscious of the possibility of its entry into Nepal. The Ministry of Health and Population (MoHP) of Nepal has encouraged the public to be cautious of the disease and take essential health precautions. The ministry must also make a concrete plan and have the necessary infrastructure and tools to diagnose, manage and prevent the disease in Nepal.

What are the signs and symptoms?

Monkeypox is a self-limiting disease that typically resolves within two to four weeks. In humans, the symptoms are similar to but milder than the symptoms of smallpox. The basic difference is that monkeypox causes swollen lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy), but smallpox does not. The incubation period for monkeypox is typically seven to 14 days, but it can range from five to 21 days. The sickness starts with a febrile stage that lasts 1 to 3 days and includes symptoms such as fever, severe headache, lymphadenopathy (swelling of the lymph nodes), back pain, myalgia (muscle ache), and severe asthenia (lack of energy). The febrile stage is followed by the formation of a rash, which usually begins on the face and then spreads to other areas of the body and lasts two to four weeks.

Lesions progress through the following stages before falling off: macules (lesions with a flat base)  papules (raised firm painful lesions)  vesicles (filled with clear fluid)  pustules (filled with pus)  scabs or crusts. In reported cases, the proportion of patients who died ranged from 0% to 11%, with the proportion being higher in young children.

Monkeypox must be distinguished from other disorders such as chickenpox, measles, bacterial skin infections, scabies, syphilis, and medication-related allergies.

How is the disease diagnosed?

The diagnosis can be a challenge since its symptoms are similar to those of many other diseases. The primary laboratory test for monkeypox diagnosis is the detection of virus DNA using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The best diagnostic specimens are directly from the rash skin, fluid, or crusts, or biopsy where feasible. Because antigen and antibody detection methods do not distinguish amongst orthopoxviruses, they may not be useful.

Prevention and vaccination

The following precautions can be followed to prevent the infection:

Avoid contact with infected animals, as well as animals that are sick or have been found dead in the infected areas.

Avoid touching any objects that have come into contact with a sick animal, such as bedding.

Isolate infected patients from those who could be at risk of infection.

After coming into contact with infected animals or humans, wash your hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.

When caring for patients, wear personal protective equipment (PPE).

According to the WHO, the smallpox vaccine is 85% effective in preventing monkeypox. As a result of the end of routine smallpox vaccination, which provided some cross-protection in the past, populations have become more susceptible to monkeypox. Despite the fact that smallpox vaccination is no longer regular, members, healthcare workers, and laboratory personnel who were vaccinated against smallpox in childhood may still be protected against monkeypox. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved JYNNEOS, a live-attenuated vaccine that protects adults 18 years and older from smallpox and monkeypox infection.

How is it treated?

The disease does not have a specific therapy. Treatment plans are frequently focused on reducing symptoms and making patients as comfortable as possible. Nonetheless, there are a number of antivirals that may be beneficial in the case of monkeypox.

In the absence of particular therapy, many people infected with the virus experience a mild, self-limiting disease course. The prognosis for monkeypox, on the other hand, is determined by several factors, including previous vaccination history, initial health status, concurrent illnesses, and comorbidities.
Suman Prasad Sharma started working as an engineer for the government in 1984. To the date he retired from the Kathmandu Upatyaka Khanepani Limited in 2017, he kept working in the field of water supply and sanitation in different ministries and their departments. He has been crucial in building water and sanitation projects with a major focus outside Kathmandu.

He did his bachelors in civil engineering from the Bhopal University of India and a masters in environmental engineering from AIT Bangkok. He has been involved in many ministries including communications, finance, energy, peace and reconstruction, at the secretariat level. He also worked as the executive director of the Melamchi Water Supply Development Board and Project Director for the Project Implementation Directorate (KUKL).

At 63, Sharma is still actively working as a freelancing consultant in the water sector. Coinciding the World Environment Day and Sithi Nakha, Onlinekhabar caught up with Sharma to discuss a few areas around Kathmandus water supply. Excerpts:

As someone who has worked in the sector of water supply in Kathmandu, how have you understood the growing water problems in Kathmandu?

Suman Prasad Sharma. Photo: Nasana Bajracharya

The problems started when the water supply system could not cope or scale with the changing peoples quality of lifestyle. The number of people increased in the city, but the supply did not. So, the supply is the major problem.

We had the same old infrastructure management system for so long, which was only updated as the Melamchi drinking water supply was to be connected to the city. But, that took more than 20 years to turn into reality. So, the problem is large and obvious. Meanwhile, the institution could not invest or even collect the investment needed for infrastructural development while struggling with management issues. Yet, it still needs to gradually increase.

This year, World Environment Day has fallen on the same day as Sithi Nakha, a local festival primarily observed by the Newa community. On this occasion, do you have anything to say about how Kathmandu learn from its culture to preserve the environment?

The core city population had well managed the shallow groundwater system and the network that included spouts, ponds, and wells. It was adapted to the population then and it had more natural properties and less contamination too.

We have a lot of ideas to learn from that practice including practices of preservation and management of water resources as well as the respect we paid to them. We can still adopt the practice of cleaning our water resources on Sithi Nakha.

However, times have changed, the city has expanded and so has the population. We now need more water supply whereas clean and drinkable supply has become a challenge. Now, we need to adapt as well as scale the network as per the demand.

From the user side, we all have to manage the demand as well as conserve and preserve the water we have. Be mindful of how we are using the water, protect our forests; be mindful of not polluting the resources. They can become friends of water and, if possible, actively recharge the groundwater.

Where should the focus be shifted in the next five years?

We are still seeing a water deficit in dry seasons. So, the top priority should be to meet the supply and demand ratio for the Kathmandu Valley, with more water pumping in. But, we need appropriate infrastructure as well as a proper managerial and operational system to manage the influx, with proper decision-making and timely delivery. And, all this should be done in a cyclic manner for sustainability.

If not all, we are putting most eggs in one basket so it increases the risk factor. After the Melamchi disaster last monsoon season, we have to learn from it and think more about disaster resilience and respective contingency plans, especially during floods and earthquakes.

The recent budget plan mentioned that the government is keen on bringing in water from Sisneri, and if possible Kulekhani can be explored too; so that is a plus for the valley. The future budget also needs to prioritise this regularly. Domestic and foreign investment needs to increase by twice or thrice whereas our capital needs to increase by at least 25 per cent.

Another aspect is the tariff system here. The KUKL has been providing services at the very minimum amount which makes it harder for the organisation to manage even its own operation cost. To expect anything more or better services from the outdated tariff system will be in vain.

Pipelines installed to collect rainwater. Photo: Aryan Dhimal

Along with this, we need to increase consumer education and maximise our resources. The focus should be on how to store and use the rainwater that the valley receives during the monsoon season, by making underground reservoirs. In the long term, we have to focus on how to recharge the groundwater system and use them. We also have to work on making our system automatic, with less human intervention.

Last but not the least, we have to invest more in research and development as well as focus more on collaborative efforts. Whatever has been done is not enough.

What can be the challenges along the way?

Priorities need to be shifted, but it takes time to get things done in Nepal. Since there is a time factor and lack of continuity in our workstyle, it kills any mood or zeal we have to work on the issues or bring reforms. We can take the Melamchi project as an example.

There are always issues like environmental incompliance, procurement of land and permits, budget and other social issues. Lack of monitoring and monetary resources too will be a challenge. The government is yet to prioritise the water supply or its infrastructure over big concrete development projects.

Ideally, if we all work well, we can see changes in some five years. Otherwise, it can take 10, 20 even 30 years.

Activists are demanding a new water and sanitation act, along with better policies and guidelines. How important do you see it in the present context?

There are a few policies in the sector including the Urban Water Supply And Sanitation Sector Policy, 2009 [updated policy draft, 2014], the Rural Water Supply Policy, 2004, the Sanitation Master Plan, 2011 and the National Drinking Water Quality Standards And Directives, 2005 [updated some two weeks ago]. The WASH policy is being drafted now, but we need better updates in other policies too as they have been old.

It would be wrong to say that not having an act has stopped us from working or investing in it. But, it is true that if there was an act, streamlining everything around the ecosystem under one umbrella would be much easier and we will have much better clarity regarding the work. We would not have to juggle between the Water Resources Act, the Consumer Act or the Public Procurement Act to solve the problem.

It has been a couple of years since policymakers are now working on the draft for the act. But, we are yet to see it formulated.

While people talk about water supply, the sewerage system is often ignored. Do you think it is okay?

A section of Dhobikhola that has been polluted by sewage. Photo: Chandra Bahadur Ale

For the sewerage system to work better too, you need ample water supply, but it is insufficient now. It is rather easy to maintain the system during the monsoon, but in other seasons, it is still a challenge. In addition, because the drainage and sewage pipes are not separated, so we see problems during this season.

Apart from that, work on the wastewater and sewage system too is lagging. We lack the human and other resources to design and sustain the (wastewater and faecal) treatment plants. But, they are of limited capacity including those in Guhyeshwari and Sundarighat with others under construction.

Such treatment plants as well as the drainage and sewerage system are very expensive to manage and they have been arbitrarily managed with a haphazard piping system. It was not managed in a network rather it became a way for local ward leaders to push the problem away from ones area. The responsibility of the system too was distributed among many authorities, because of which it failed to be an integrated system.

Finally, is it true that Kathmandu is seeing more water-borne and water-related diseases?

If we look at the epidemics where a larger number of people fell victims to diarrhoea, typhoid, jaundice and cholera, it has decreased. Awareness of the diseases has increased, but it is true that we have not been able to eliminate them. Due to testing and more access, the number of cases might have increased too.

Regardless of that, the quality of the water has been questioned and the infrastructure has been insufficient. The KUKL has instructed people to boil the water before drinking and it also distributes iron and chlorine tablets as a measure. We are continuing to go deeper into the earth and more resources to get more supply, exposing ourselves to more contaminations regarding chemicals, minerals, bacteria and protozoa.

Meanwhile, people have had to store water for a longer period, causing more contaminations. The modern lifestyle and its complexities have also been a factor.
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Come visit our Southampton Farmers and Artisans Market on Sundays from 9am-3pm in Agawam Park. These are the venders: Aralotta Food Studio, Bambino Ravioli, Catch of the Hamptons, Chez Hedwige, Chowderhead Soup, Dennis Bontempo, Donnas Emporium, Green Door Woodworks, Hampton Soaptique, Island End Farms, Kalypso Farms Dairy, Kat Kreated, Laurels Butter, Louise Goods LLC, Lulu Knits, Mecox Bay Dairy, Millas Puffs, Muf n & James Doggy Bag Treats, North Fork Oyster Company, Open Minded Organics, Pecks of Maine, Sal & Jerrys Bakery, Silk and Sea Designs, South Fork Bakery, Sweet Woodland Farms, Tanya Tracy, Terra Nut , The Biscotti Company, The Cookery by Cyn & Trudy, The Ferm, The Granola Plant, The Perfect Pickle, Turmeric Boss, Vienna Cookie Company and Wishbone Farms. This market is Sponsored by Hope for Depression We are Celebrating 70 years in Southampton Village, the Southampton Chamber of Commerce is a 501c(6) private, non-pro t membership driven business organization not funded through any government entity. Our mission is to attract, promote, retain and develop business in Southampton and provide visitor information on the community and the South Fork of Long Island. 76 Main Street, Southampton, NY 11968
Johnny Depp was seen at a U.K. bar with musicians around the time the verdict was read in his defamation case against ex-wife Amber Heard.

The jury's verdict was revealed Wednesday afternoon in Fairfax, Virginia, concluding the explosive six-week trial, which was televised live. Depp, 58, won all three defamation claims when it came to Heard's 2018 op-ed about coming forward with domestic abuse claims. He was awarded $15 million in damages, but Heard will only have to pay $10.35 million due to Virginia law cap on punitive damages (the judge reduced the amount).

The jurors sided with Heard on one of her three countersuit claims of defamation, awarding her $2 million in damages.

Ahead of the verdict, a spokesperson for Depp confirmed to PEOPLE that he would not be in the courtroom in person "due to previously scheduled work commitments made before the trial." Since Sunday night, he's been performing onstage with Jeff Beck at concerts overseas. A spokesperson for Heard, 36, who was in attendance for the verdict, said in a statement, "Your presence shows where your priorities are. Johnny Depp plays guitar in the U.K. while Amber Heard waits for a verdict in Virginia. Depp is taking his snickering and lack of seriousness on tour."

For more on Johnny Depp, listen below to our daily podcast PEOPLE Every Day.

Musician Sam Fender posted a photo on his Instagram Story that showed himself and Depp smiling alongside Beck and others sitting at a table on Wednesday. "Some serious heroes," Fender, 28, wrote.

Shortly before the verdict was read, several fans posted on social media saying they spotted Depp at the Bridge Tavern in Newcastle, sharing photos and videos of the movie-star sighting. He shook hands and waved at fans who shouted their "love" for him.

RELATED: What's Next for Johnny Depp and Amber Heard After Contentious Trial? From Aquaman 2 to Depp's Music

Johnny Depp - Sam Fender

Sam Fender/Instagram

Following the verdict, Depp said in a statement that the "jury gave me my life back."

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"Six years ago, my life, the life of my children, the lives of those closest to me, and also, the lives of the people who for many, many years have supported and believed in me were forever changed. All in the blink of an eye," he said. "False, very serious and criminal allegations were levied at me via the media, which triggered an endless barrage of hateful content, although no charges were ever brought against me. It had already traveled around the world twice within a nanosecond and it had a seismic impact on my life and my career. And six years later, the jury gave me my life back."

"I am truly humbled," he continued. "My decision to pursue this case, knowing very well the height of the legal hurdles that I would be facing and the inevitable, worldwide spectacle into my life, was only made after considerable thought. From the very beginning, the goal of bringing this case was to reveal the truth, regardless of the outcome. Speaking the truth was something that I owed to my children and to all those who have remained steadfast in their support of me. I feel at peace knowing I have finally accomplished that."

Depp added that he is "overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and the colossal support and kindness from around the world."

Johnny Depp's attorneys including Camille Vasquez and Benjamin Chew celebrate after the jury's verdict in the Depp v. Heard civil defamation trial at the Fairfax County Circuit Courthouse in Fairfax, Virginia

EVELYN HOCKSTEIN/POOL/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

"I hope that my quest to have the truth be told will have helped others, men or women, who have found themselves in my situation, and that those supporting them never give up. I also hope that the position will now return to innocent until proven guilty, both within the courts and in the media," he said. "I wish to acknowledge the noble work of the Judge, the jurors, the court staff and the Sheriffs who have sacrificed their own time to get to this point, and to my diligent and unwavering legal team who did an extraordinary job in helping me to share the truth. The best is yet to come and a new chapter has finally begun. Veritas numquam perit. Truth never perishes."

Heard also reacted to the verdict in a statement, expressing disappointment.

Amber Heard stands with her lawyers Elaine Bredehoft and Benjamin Rottenborn before the jury said that they believe she defamed ex-husband Johnny Depp while announcing split verdicts in favor of both her ex-husband Johnny Depp and Heard on their claim and counter-claim in the Depp v. Heard civil defamation trial at the Fairfax County Circuit Courthouse

EVELYN HOCKSTEIN/POOL/AFP via Getty

"The disappointment I feel today is beyond words. I'm heartbroken that the mountain of evidence still was not enough to stand up to the disproportionate power, influence and sway of my ex-husband," she said.

"I'm even more disappointed with what this verdict means for other women. It is a setback," Heard added. "It sets back the clock to a time when a woman who spoke up and spoke out could be publicly shamed and humiliated. It sets back the idea that violence against women is to be taken seriously."

"I believe Johnny's attorneys succeeded in getting the jury to overlook the key issue of Freedom of Speech and ignore evidence that was so conclusive that we won in the U.K.," the Aquaman actress continued. "I'm sad I lost this case. But I am sadder still that I seem to have lost a right I thought I had as an American  to speak freely and openly."
(Adds Japan's response, Sung Kim's change in schedule)

By Byungwook Kim and Josh Smith

SEOUL, June 5 (Reuters) - North Korea fired eight short-range ballistic missiles towards the sea off its east coast on Sunday, likely its largest single test, a day after South Korea and the United States ended joint military drills.

South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said that at least eight missiles were fired from the Sunan area of the North Korean capital Pyongyang and they flew between 110 km-600 km (70-370 miles) at altitudes between 25 km to 90 km.

In response to North Korea's missiles launch, Japan's Self Defence Force issued a statement that Japan and the United States had conducted a joint military exercise.

And South Korea convened a National Security Council (NSC) meeting where President Yoon Suk-yeol ordered "expanded deterrence of South Korea and the United States and continued reinforcement of united defence posture".

The NSC meeting concluded that the missile launch was North Korea's "test and challenge" of the security readiness of South Korea's new administration, which took office last month, the president's office said in a news release.

South Korea's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Kim Gunn, its Special Representative for Korean Peninsula Peace and Security Affairs, discussed the provocation with U.S. Special Representative Sung Kim, the U.S. point man on North Korean affairs. Kim Gunn also held a telephone conference with his Japanese counterpart Funakoshi Takehiro.

Earlier on Sunday, Japanese Defence Minister Nobuo Kishi said the North had launched multiple missiles, and that the act "cannot be tolerated." He said at a briefing that at least one missile had a variable trajectory, which indicates it could manoeuvre to evade missile defences.

The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command said in a statement that North Korea's multiple ballistic missile launches highlighted the destabilising impact of its illicit weapons program but that the event didn't pose an immediate threat.

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Michael Duitsman, with the U.S.-based James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies (CNS), said it appeared to be the largest single test ever by North Korea. A large number of missiles also suggests a military drill or show of force, rather than a test of new technology.

The launch was also during a visit to Seoul by Sung Kim. The U.S. official was originally scheduled to depart Seoul on Saturday, according to the U.S. State Department.

He met his South Korean and Japanese counterparts on Friday to prepare for "all contingencies" amid signs North Korea was preparing to conduct a nuclear test for the first time since 2017.

MORE SANCTIONS

Washington has made very clear directly to Pyongyang that it is open to diplomacy, Kim said during the visit, noting that he was willing to discuss items of interest to Pyongyang, such as sanctions relief.

Last week, the United States called for more U.N. sanctions on North Korea over its ballistic missile launches, but China and Russia vetoed the suggestion, publicly splitting the U.N. Security Council on North Korea for the first time since it started punishing it in 2006, when North Korea conducted its first nuclear test.

In recent weeks, North Korea has test-fired a range of missiles, including its largest intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM).

North Korea's last tests were on May 25, when it launched three missiles after U.S. President Joe Biden ended an Asia trip where he agreed to new measures to deter the nuclear-armed state.

The first missile appeared to be the North's largest ICBM, the Hwasong-17, while a second unspecified missile appeared to have failed mid-flight, South Korean officials said at the time. The third missile was a short-range ballistic missile (SRBM).

The South Korea-U.S. bilateral exercises involved an American aircraft carrier for the first time in more than four years.

On Saturday, South Korean and American ships concluded three days of drills in international waters off the Japanese island of Okinawa, including air defence, anti-ship, anti-submarine, and maritime interdiction operations, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said.

It has said the exercises "consolidated the two countries' determination to sternly respond to any North Korean provocations".

The exercises included the USS Ronald Reagan, a 100,000-ton nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, among other major warships.

South Korean President Yoon, who took office on May 10, had agreed with Biden to increase bilateral military drills to deter North Korea.

North Korea has criticized previous joint drills as an example of Washington's continued "hostile policies" toward Pyongyang, despite its talk of diplomacy.

(Reporting by Byungwook Kim and Josh Smith; Additional reporting by Junko Fujita in Tokyo; Editing by Leslie Adler, Lisa Shumaker, Raju Gopalakrishnan and Muralikumar Anantharaman)
Bahrain-based TCIGs CEO Hyder Cohen has been announced as the CEO of the Year 2022 by the CEO Today Magazine.

Every year CEO Today Magazine identifies and honours the most respected companies and their C-Level executives who lead the way on a global stage.

The CEO Today Magazine team collate votes and in-depth sector by sector research to choose the very best of the best among the worlds CEOs to reward and celebrate the leadership and strategic vision of CEOs across a number of sectors to identify the most successful, innovative and forward-thinking CEOs in business today.

Growing remarkably

Accepting this award Cohen said: It is humbling to have received this award, not just for me personally but for my whole team too. In addition to being recgonised as an entity based in Bahrain for which we are very proud. Being in Bahrain has allowed us to grow remarkably without the normal complexities in other regions. Being in Bahrain is one of the key reasons to our success.

Cohen also credits the award to his team: Without my teams unstinting support and alignment to my vision, the success and recognition would be meaningless. So, I accept this award not just as a CEO of a global organisation but as a person who sees the reason for my personal and organisational success in the hands of a dedicated, diverse, and committed team of experts and perfectionists who are not simply in a job for namesake but do things with conviction and passion.

TCIG has been established in Bahrain since 2012, who were introduced to the kingdom with the support of the Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB) which played a significant supporting role in getting the group to relocate from the UK to Bahrain.

Tough times never last

Coming out of the Covid-19 Pandemic phase Cohen said: Tough times never last but solid businesses with clear positions do. He adds: Whilst others where consolidating positions we were at the peak of growth and during the Pandemic we grew our business 10-fold.

In a 10-year span, Cohen led the business to grow impressively with a diverse business operation from Bahrain that now boasts clients and customers all over the world.-- TradeArabia News Service
A Palm Beach Fire Rescue worker talks to a resident who came to Phipps Ocean Park to receive COVID-19 rapid antigen testing Jan. 6.

The town isn't taking any chances.

Even though officials admit that COVID fatigue has settled in, rising positivity rates have led Palm Beach to once again require masks be worn at public meetings at Town Hall.

It is a wise decision.

With the county's positivity rate jumping from 2.4 percent for the week ending March 12, to a staggering 19.23 percent for the week ending May 28, the county and the South Florida region are at a high risk for community transmission, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

With Palm Beach's older population, Town Manager Kirk Blouin, Mayor Danielle Moore and Town Council President Maggie Zeidman decided last week that they couldn't wait any longer to reimplement the mask mandate.

The move is in keeping with a CDC recommendation that people mask up indoors and on public transportation in Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties as well as in the Tampa Bay area, and Sarasota, Polk and Alachua counties.

"The Town of Palm Beach reinforces and supports the prevention strategies based on guidance from the experts at the CDC with the goal of protecting the islands vulnerable population," town officials said last week in a news release.

But even those who made the mask decision recognize that people are sick of wearing them. But it's better than getting the disease.

"We are all tired of this virus but we will do what we can to keep the transmission in check," Zeidman said.

Masks reinstated: Town of Palm Beach will move to mask requirement for public meetings at Town Hall

Editorial: Palm Beach's popularity since COVID driving changes to island

This is not the first time the town has had a mask-wearing requirement. One was instituted on town-owned properties last summer in response to a surge from the highly transmissible delta variant, and it remained through a second spike in cases earlier this year caused by the omicron variant.

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Officials also have been proactive when it comes to taking precautions against COVID. For example, before Gov. Ron DeSantis took away local authority, the town declared a state of emergency when the pandemic first started in March 2020; it also closed beaches and the Lake Trail temporarily and moved town meetings to Zoom for a spell (which is something they may want to consider again, if the spread worsens).

Unfortunately, there will be ebbs and flows in positivity rates as we have painfully shifted from a pandemic to the virus now being endemic, some experts say.

Yes, we are all tired of wearing masks, of getting vaccinated and boosted, of having our lives taken hostage by a virus whose impact may have been minimized had we all joined together on mitigation efforts.

But our weariness does not negate our civic responsibility to be responsible, to think of others, to avoid spreading the disease. So, please wear a mask while indoors in public, keep up with vaccines, get tested when symptoms appear and take whatever precautions are necessary around people at higher risk for severe illness.

Don't take any chances. It could be a matter of life or death.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Daily News: COVID: Palm Beach makes right move with return of masks to Town Hall
Kenichi Horie became the first person to complete the voyage in 1962 (JIJI PRESS/AFP via Getty Images)

Kenichi Horie, dubbed Japans most famous yachtsman, has become the oldest person in the world to complete a solo, non-stop voyage across the Pacific Ocean, aged 83.

His journey began at a yacht harbour in San Francisco on 27 March and Mr Horie returned home on Saturday as he crossed the Kii Strait off Japans western coast at around 2.39am local time  completing his journey in 69 days.

After spending the night in his customised, 19-foot-long Suntory Mermaid III, Mr Horie was towed into his home port of Shin Nhishinomiya on Sunday.

There local residents and supporters greeted the octogenarian adventurer with signs that read: Welcome back, Mr Kenichi Horie!

As he approached the harbour, Mr Horie took off his white cap and waved at the waiting party from his boat. Bowing deeply and acepting bouquets of roses, Mr Horie said: Thank you for waiting!

This is not the first time Mr Horie has successfully completed a solo nonstop voyage across the worlds largest ocean. Sixty years ago, remarkably, he became the first person ever to achieve this feat, travelling from Japan to San Francisco.

In an interview on Sunday, he revealed that, despite carrying a stock of medicines from San Franciso, all he needed during his more than two months alone at sea were eye drops and Band-Aids.

That shows how healthy I am, Horie continued. adding Im still in the middle of my youth.

Soon after his departure from San Francisco, he was faced with a storm, but the weather gradually improved and he reached Hawaii in mid-April ahead of schedule.

He had some struggles toward the end with a few days of pushback from a strong tide. He wrote on his blog on Friday that he had succeeded but was exhausted, and he took a nap after feeling assured that his yacht was on the right track to the finish line.

Describing the arduous journey, he said he burned all my body and soul to complete the voyage but that hes ready for more, adding, I will keep up my work to be a late bloomer.

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Speaking at a news conference at the yacht harbor later on Sunday, Mr Horie called the accomplishment a dream come true.

It was my great joy to have been able to make a challenge as a real goal and safely achieve it, instead of just holding onto it as a dream.he said, as quoted by the Associated Press, adding, I want to be a challenger as long as I live.

Despite sailing on his own, technology such as ship tracking and communications allowed him to stay in touch with his family  who he spoke to once every day  over the course of his journey.

I imagine my next voyage would be even more fun, he said, full of optimism.

Mr Horie has completed other long-distance solo voyages, including sailing around the world in 1974. His latest expedition was the first since his 2008 solo nonstop voyage from Hawaii to the Kii Strait.

The first boat he used to cross the Pacific, the Mermaid, remains at the National Maritime Museum in California.

Recall for a short moment, if you will, the deed of a young Japanese, who loved the yacht and the United States of America, the plaque he donated to the museum reportedly reads.

Additional reporting by the Associated Press
Marco Antonio Solis - Que ganas de Verte World Tour 2022 - Credit: Luis Gutierrez/Norte Photo/Getty Images

The Latin Recording Academy announced today that the 2022 Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year is composer, arranger, producer, musician, artistic director, and five-time Latin Grammy winner Marco Antonio Solis. He will be honored at a gala and tribute concert that will include renditions of his music performed by friends and other artists. Details of the event and this years Latin Grammy Awards have not been announced.

I am very moved and grateful to the Latin Recording Academy for this special distinction that means so much to me professionally and personally, Solis, who has also been nominated for six Grammys through his decades-long career, said in a statement. I would like to share this sentiment with everyone who has inspired me, and with those who I may have inspired as well to be able to occupy this place that the public has made me deserving of through this blessing called music.

More from Rolling Stone

Solis, who is known lovingly as El Buki by fans, was born in Ario de Rosales, Michoacan, in Mexico, and grew up watching his father sing and play the guitar. He and his cousin Joel Solis began performing early in their career as Dueto Solis and, in the mid-1970s, they formed the popular group Los Bukis. Last year, the band announced a highly successful comeback tour, Una Historia Cantada (A History in Song).

After launching a solo career in 1996, Solis released more than a dozen solo albums. He has worked behind the scenes as a composer, arranger and producer, collaborating over the years with artists such as Rocio Durcal, Raphael, and Lucero. His music has extended into film and has included performing the song Si No Te Hubieras Ido for the soundtrack of the Oscar-nominated film Y Tu Mama Tambien. In 2017, he voiced the character of Ernesto de la Cruz in the Spanish-language version of the Oscar-winning Disney/Pixar film Coco.

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Marco Antonio Solis is a living legend and one of the most emblematic figures in Latin music, said Manuel Abud, CEO of the Latin Recording Academy. He continues to break down generational barriers through his poignant lyrics which move millions of people and inspire greater acceptance and understanding.

Solis is the 10th man in a row that the Latin Recording Academy has chosen as Person of the Year. Those previous honorees were Ruben Blades (2021), Juanes (2019), Mana (2018), Alejandro Sanz (2017), Marc Anthony (2016), Roberto Carlos (2015), Joan Manuel Serrat (2014), Miguel Bose (2013), and Caetano Veloso (2012).

Best of Rolling Stone

Click here to read the full article.
Youth-led protest groups in Sri Lanka, currently crippled by economic and political crisis, have rejected prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghes offer to include them in parliamentary reform committees.

Mr Wickremesinghe on 29 May in a televised statement said that governance in Sri Lanka will be broad-based through parliamentary committees, with lawmakers youth and experts working together.

He added that under proposed constitutional reforms, powers of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa will be clipped while those of Parliament will be fortified.

He said: The youth are calling for a change in the existing system. They also want to know the current issues. Therefore, I propose to appoint four youth representatives to each of these 15 committees.

However, on Friday, it was reported that these leaderless groups had rejected Mr Wickremesinghes offer, calling it an attempt to weaken the anti-establishment movement.

Further, they criticised Mr Wickremesinghes Hunger Games approach of picking and choosing between protestors from diverse backgrounds to be appointed to these committees.

Speaking to The Straits Times, the former chief of Sri Lankas human rights commission Ambika Sathkunanathan said: What Ranil is doing is dodgy. This whole Hunger Games approach is especially terrible - hes saying you decide which one of you will be in Parliament.

Protesters have camped out outside the presidents office for more than 50 days, since March, demanding the resignation of the Rajapaksa family including the president  as the country tethers on the brink of bankruptcy.

Sri Lanka has already defaulted on its foreign loans, and is grappling with acute shortages of essential items such as cooking gas, fuel and medicines.

Many have been forced to wait in long queues for hours to try and buy necessities, with many still returning empty-handed.

Last month, former prime minister Mahinda Rajapaksa was forced to resign and Mr Wickremesinghe was sworn in on 12 May.

Mr Wickremesinghe, in his first address to the country, prepared the country for tough months ahead as he aimed to steer the economy back on track.

Additional reporting by Associated Press
Jay W. Spoonheim is an Oklahoma City resident.

Im a 90-year-old on the cusp of 91, white male originally from North Dakota, Lutheran Christian and, four years now, an Okie by way of California and New Mexico. And I'm an Okie captivated with the notion of an Oklahoma Standard, yet totally puzzled by just what that Standard is.

Our governor just recently signed the most severely restrictive anti-abortion law in the land. He who has no trouble advocating for and perpetuating capital punishment even when our state record for carrying out said executions has often bordered on the barbaric. Is a reverence for life meant to be so easily compartmentalized? Reviewing our states gun laws and popular Second Amendment convictions, it appears that it is.

Yes, you are reading the thoughts of a troubled person. Very troubled because of waves of grief that keep welling up in me as news of the Texas slaughter of children and their teachers fails to even nudge toward healing; only worsens. The husband of one of the slain teachers has died of a broken heart leaving four children parentless.

I find the pain relentless and gut-wrenching and made all the more unbelievable by the unwillingness of a minority in our Congress to redemptively act. And that inaction has prevailed through gun massacres among us, soon too many to count.

The "Standard." What is this standard we Okies so often refer to with such obvious pride and affection? It becomes partially but blazingly evident once a tornado has passed. I have gratefully experienced that. And recently I read in the Oklahoman a column about one local clergyman (The Rev. Derrick Scobey) and another authored by another local clergy person (The Rev. Lori Allen Walke) that had me paying hopeful attention. Attentive, that is, until the utterances of a few of our national politicians who, in responding/reacting to the Texas massacre, only served to embarrass us with their grossly insensitive predictability.

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Will our blinders ever come off? Will a glorious, full-throated alternative to our stubborn adherence to small, rigid thought ever sound out? Will a day that truly does justice to what it means to be gloriously alive human beings ever dawn and, at long last, become the authentic Oklahoma Standard? Soon, I fervently hope. At 90/91, my days grow short.

Jay W. Spoonheim is an Oklahoma City resident and a retired Lutheran minister.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Abortion bans should not be paired with support for capital punishment
After Americas latest mass shooting, its amazing how fast the media found scapegoats to blame rather than assign responsibility to the gun in the troubled young mans hands. Common sense leads to the conclusion that if there was no gun in the mans hands, its likely that the attacker would have been apprehended before killing so many.

This latest mass shooting, on May 24 by an 18-year-old man, killed 19 children and two teachers and injured 17 more in a Uvalde, Texas, elementary school. Before this massacre, using one of the two AR-15 semi-automatic rifles he legally purchased on his 18th birthday, the gunman had aimed a non-fatal but bloody shot at his grandmothers face.

In the school, officials found 315 rounds of ammunition, 142 of which were spent cartridges. Like the guns, the ammunition was purchased legally.

Nine days before this, another mass shooting occurred  this one in Buffalo, New York, when another 18-year-old man killed 10 people in a supermarket  11 Black and two white people were shot  by bullets fired from an AR-15-style rifle.

Other recent mass shootings in which AR-15-style assault rifles were used include the following:

Feb. 14, 2018: Shooter at Stoneman Douglas High School in Florida killed 17 people.

Oct. 1, 2017: Shooter at Las Vegas event killed 58 people.

Nov. 5, 2017: Shooter at Sutherland Springs, Texas, church shooting killed 26 people.

June 12, 2016: The Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando, Florida, left 49 dead.

Dec. 2, 2015: The San Bernardino, California, shooting killed 14 people.

Dec. 14, 2012: The shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut took 27 lives.

AR-15-style weapons are offshoots of the M-16 rifles used during the Viet Nam war. Like the M-16, the AR-15 is designed to kill people quickly and in large numbers. The National Rifle Association estimates there are some eight million AR-15s and its variations in circulation, and says they are so popular that the "AR" should stand for "America's Rifle."

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The New York Times reported the Uvalde and Buffalo instances of gun violence are not unusual. There have been 213 mass shootings in the United States in the first 21 weeks of 2022. An average of 321 Americans are shot every single day. And every day, there are roughly more than 50,000 gun sales recorded.

Mass shootings were reduced for a decade after President Bill Clinton signed an assault-weapons ban in 1994. After the ban was not renewed in 2004, the number of mass shootings increased. The ban did not, however, prevent the Columbine High School massacre in which two students killed twelve students and one teacher in April 1999.

We are left wondering what can be done to reduce the number of mass shootings. Other countries do not have the gun violence that pervades our American culture. Students, shoppers, and church-goers in other countries do not live in fear being gunned down.

We need to demand our legislators pass a permanent assault weapons ban that will buy back AR-15-style weapons and bump stocks (which can be added to semi-automatics to make them behave more like automatic firearms) from civilians and that will halt their production, importation, and sales for all but military and law enforcement uses. In response to a mass shooting that killed 35 and wounded 28 people in 1996, Australia greatly reduced the number of murders when it instituted a guns buy-back program that removed more than 650,000 from use.

Polls show a majority of Americans have supported stricter gun laws for decades. A Politico/Morning Consult poll conducted this week showed overwhelming support among Americans for background checks, a ban on assault-style weapons, and other gun restrictions.

We also need a Supreme Court decision that restores the meaning of the first half of the Second Amendment: A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed. The meaning of the first 13 words was lost after the 2008 Supreme Courts decision in the District of Columbia v. Heller case. By a 5-4 vote the Supreme Court, ignoring the original intent of the amendment, interpreted the Second Amendment to grant individuals the right to possess and use firearms independent of servicing in a well governed militia.

If our legislators fail to produce the changes that are needed, vote for those who will be more responsive to all Americans, not just to those in their political party or to lobbyists.

 Judy Parr is a resident of Holland.

This article originally appeared on The Holland Sentinel: My Take: Why America must restore its assault-weapons ban
Tanya Singleton believes that if Americansas a society, in the workplace and at homesupported mothers who want to breastfeed, the shortage of baby formula would not have turned into as severe a crisis.

The Spotsylvania County woman is a lactation consultant, someone who helps new mothers with the nuances of nursing. While some new moms have problems breastfeeding or opt not to, she said about 85% of women leave the hospital with a plan to nurse their babies.

About two months later, which is when maternity leave usually ends, theres a precipitous drop in numbers because we dont make it easy for women to breastfeed in this country, she said. It becomes a political bailiwick when its actually a public health and humanitarian thing.

In the wake of the ongoing formula shortage, Singleton, who has a masters degree in public health and is a retired Army nurse, wishes state and national health officials had disseminated information about a little-known option that might help in the long term.

My favorite thing is when women can relactate, she said.

Thats the process of restarting breastfeeding after its stopped. Relactation takes several weeks and requires persistence, Singleton said. It involves exercises, including lots of skin-to-skin contact with the baby, stimulations to produce necessary hormones and a round-the-clock dedication to pumping.

Similar methods are used, along with a nasal spray, to allow women who adopt babies to be able to breastfeed them, Singleton said.

Most people dont even know its a thing, said Alexis Simms, a Henrico County mother whos part of a statewide breastfeeding coalition with Singleton.

When Simms developed medical problems after her daughters birth five years ago, she wasnt able to nurse her baby regularly. But she wanted so strongly to breastfeed that after her condition became manageable, she spent two months working to build up her milk supply. By the time her daughter was 4 months, she was exclusively breastfed, Simms said.

Simms was an at-home mother at the time. Support from family and advice from a lactation consultant allowed her to devote her energies to breastfeeding. Because relactation can consume so much time, the LaLeche League International suggests that moms undergoing the process accept any offers of support with shopping, housework, etc.

While local pediatricians and hospital lactation specialists said it would be great if women could relactate after theyve stopped breastfeeding, they havent seen an increase in interest because of the formula shortage. One specialist points out its hardly a quick fix for moms worried about their babys next feeding.

This is not something that you can just turn the spigot back on, said Valerie Lemelin, lactation coordinator at Mary Washington Hospital. Its no easy journey and its uncertain success.

That is true, said Ellen Bejger, director of womens services at Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center. It does take a lot of patience, but Id say at times its a successful process.

What Bejger is hearing more from new mothers is their desire to avoid the need for baby formula, if possible.

I am hearing an uptick in the amount of moms interested in exclusively breastfeeding, she said.

Dr. Nimali Fernando, a Spotsylvania County pediatrician, is seeing the same.

A lot of moms are thinking more about breastfeeding as a way of not having to face a situation where their baby may not have food, she said. In the calculus of deciding whether to breast or bottle feed, that has definitely become a factor.

LOCAL SHORTAGES

Fernando and Bejger say the baby formula shortage doesnt seem to be as severe in the Fredericksburg region as whats been reported nationwide.

Luckily, we havent had a lot of desperate calls like Ive seen on the news, and we do have a lot of breastfeeding moms, Fernando said.

Her office has continued to get occasional formula samples and pass them along to patients.

That hasnt been the case for Dr. Roxanne Allegretti in Stafford County. Last year, she said companies brought so many formula samples to the office, she had to move them to her basement at home.

When Abbott Laboratories issued a voluntary recall of formula in Februarywhich later prompted a national shortageAllegretti said her samples dried up. What she had in storage was outdated and had to be tossed.

I think its pretty bad here, lots of patients tell me they had to go to eight or 10 different stores and that theyve reached out to family all over the country, Allegretti said. Every time they find it, they ship it to them, especially the more specialized formulas.

Dr. Blair Ryland Lethbridge and Dr. Rhonda W. Savaria with Mary Washington Pediatrics offered recommendations about formula during a podcast last month.

While it seems like there are many different types because of the way theyre marketed, Savaria said formulas fall into three categories: regular; soy-based for lactose intolerance; and hypoallergenic for babies who have trouble digesting formula based on cows milk.

For babies who dont have medical issues requiring a specific formula, Savaria said its fine to use any generic brand of either type if parents cant find their regular formula. The switch may cause changes to babies gassiness or stools, but wont harm them, Savaria said.

However, Ryland Lethbridge asked parents to leave the cans of hypoallergenic formula for those who require the specialized mix.

Try to stay away from them, just because theres lot of babies out there who need those for medical reasons, she said.

NOT HUNKY-DORY

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to expose societal problems. The baby-formula shortage and kinks in the supply chain have brought to light other issues involving health care for pregnant moms and babies, Singleton said.

People tend to think everything is hunky-dory but not everybody has the access and the means that they should, and that was even before the pandemic, she said. Its shined a light on how disjointed the systems are. The formula thing is kind of the last straw for me.

She cited a 2016 report card by the International Baby Food Action Network and the World Breastfeeding Trends Initiative that looked at policies, programs and practices for feeding infants worldwide. Out of a possible 10, the United States scored 2.5 in access to prenatal care, paid maternity leave and job protection and a 4 in how it supports mothers and infants. On the subject of being able to feed infants during emergencies, we scored 0 out of 10, Singleton said.

She believes the lack of support is one reason women stop breastfeeding earlier than planned. Federal regulations say lactating moms who return to their jobs are to be given a daily breaknot their lunchto pump their milk, and a place to do it thats not the bathroom. But, the law doesnt have teeth to it, Singleton said, and women often have little choice but to stop the practice of pumping when theyre away from their babies.

Its very rare for me to see a woman breastfeed exclusively and work full time, Allegretti said. Im always amazed when I see people able to do it.

Fernando agreed that the current crisis has put a lens on the fact that we need to support lactating mothers better with information, education and support.

Thats one of the things we can bring better attention to, she said, especially during this formula shortage.

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The recent wave of violence across the nation, coupled with the ongoing daily reporting of violence in our community, makes it easy to feel that we, as individuals and a society, are adrift.

There is comfort in knowing that we are hardly the first to feel this way.

Monday commemorates D-Day, when 78 years ago the largest seaborne invasion in history began. Allied troops landed on the beaches of Normandy intending to clear the beachhead of German fortifications and take the city of Caen. Some 10,000 Allied soldiers were injured; more than 4,400 of those killed in action. The Germans lost between 4,000 and 9,000 soldiers that day.

The initial goals were not realized, but the Allied forces stuck with it, and eventually took the beachheads and Caen, and then marched to Berlin, ending Hitlers fascist rule.

In hindsight, it is easy to believe this Greatest Generation willingly sacrificed all for the greater good. The truth is that in the lead-up to World War II, America was a sharply divided nation. There was no unified commitment for going to war; in fact, as many citizens were against going to war as those who supported the effort.

Eventually, however, the realization of the danger that we, and the entire world, faced forced individuals to suppress their own desires and ideals in favor of the social good.

And when the war finally ended, the tension between individual rights again clashed openly with societal structure, most notably in the Civil Rights movement.

Rather than being adrift, this tension between the individual and our collective society reflects a healthy body politic.

Two of Americas greatest thinkers, Virginian James Madison and the son of German immigrants Reinhold Niebuhr, continue to influence the way we think about this issue.

Writing in 1757 in Federalist Paper No. 10, Madison observed: [M]easures are too often decided, not according to the rules of justice and the rights of the minor party, but by the superior force of an interested and overbearing majority.

Writing against a very different social and cultural backdrop about 175 years later, Niebuhr resurrected Madisons worry, but framed it a bit differently.

As individuals, Niebuhr wrote in Moral Man and Immoral Society, [M]en believe that they ought to love and serve each other and establish justice between each other. However, the groups we form ourselves into take for themselves, whatever their power can command.

Both Niebuhr and Madison knew that the desire for majorities to enforce their wills was simply part of the human condition and could not be stopped. Rather, the challenge was to manage that impulse.

Perhaps in the wake of the mass shootings in Buffalo, New York; Uvalde, Texas; Tulsa, Oklahoma; and Ames, Iowa, we are reaching a point where we as individuals are willing to set aside our personal ideals and our groups quest for power to address an existential threat to the stability of our society.

The influx of opinion pieces, letters, and emails about the recent wave of shootings suggests that in our own community, at least, people are ready to work for the common good.

How we ultimately do that remains to be seen. Standing on solid information, however, is an important first step. Today, Fredericksburg resident and retired FBI agent Clint Van Zandt lays out the scope of the gun problem that we face. This will be followed up on Tuesday with his discussion of the steps we can take right now to begin addressing this issue.

Stafford resident Scott Mayauski brings a different perspective to the issue, but no less an earnestness in finding a workable solution.

The road ahead is sure to be difficult. There will be setbacks along the way. But bringing ourselves back to a sane position on firearms is a goal that it seems the vast majority of us seek.

And when it seems that we simply arent moving forward, David Kerrs piece about the English lads who got to know first-hand the American soldiers who would go on to form the D-Day contingent provides a powerful reminder that we can find our way and do the impossible.
The outside of the Colorado Convention Center at a previous Outdoor Retailer show.
Adnoc Logistics & Services (Adnoc L&S), the shipping and maritime logistics arm of the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (Adnoc) has announced its decision to purchase three additional liqueified natural gas (LNG) vessels.



Adnoc L&S is the regions largest shipping and integrated logistics company and the state-of-the-art new-build vessels will bolster the companys capacity as it responds to the growing global demand for LNG.



The new-build LNG vessels, each with a capacity of 175,000 cum m, significantly larger than the current Adnoc L&S fleet which have a capacity of 137,000 cu m each. Adnoc L&S previously announced in April 2022 that it will acquire two LNG vessels which brings the total number of new-build LNG vessels ordered to five, with the vessels scheduled for delivery in 2025 and 2026.



Captain Abdulkareem Al Masabi, CEO of Adnoc L&S, said: "Adnoc is an active player in the evolving global energy landscape, where natural gas and LNG are playing an increasingly important role. Adnoc L&S strategic acquisition of five state-of-the-art LNG vessels will support Adnocs existing LNG business as well as its significant growth plans.



"Several dynamics are strengthening the LNG market which makes the timing of these acquisitions particularly significant. This includes a renewed emphasis on energy access and security, as well as new environmental regulations that favour more fuel-efficient vessels, such as the new-builds that we are purchasing."



All five new-build LNG vessels will be built at the Jiangnan Shipyard in China. Jiangnan Shipyard was also previously commissioned by Adnoc L&S in 2020 to build five Very Large Gas Carriers (VLGC) for AW Shipping, Adnoc L&S Joint Venture company with Chinas Wanhua Chemical Group.



Lin Ou, Chairman of Jiangnan Shipyard, said, We would like to thank Adnoc L&S for its continued collaboration with Jiangnan. We are committed to the promotion of new efficient, energy-saving and environmentally-conscious vessels and proud to be able to support Adnoc L&S growth strategy for the future.



The acquisition of larger, more energy efficient vessels will allow Adnoc L&S to meet growing customer demand while improving the environmental footprint of its fleet. The new vessels engine technology will reduce emissions (CO2, NOX and SOX) and in combination with the innovative Air Lubrication System, further reduce fuel consumption by at least 10%.



Adnoc L&S has the largest and most diversified fleet in the Middle East, with more than 200 vessels transporting crude oil, refined products, dry bulk, containerized cargo, liqueified petroleum gas (LPG), and LNG to global markets. When combined with its 1.5 million square meter integrated logistics base in Mussafah and its comprehensive end-to-end logistics capabilities, Adnoc L&S is the regions leading provider for integrated maritime logistics solutions.



Over the past 24 months, Adnoc L&S has acquired 16 deep sea vessels, including eight Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCC) in 2021, that added 16 million barrels of capacity. Furthermore, the company acquired six product tankers, which expanded the product tanker fleet capacity to over 1 million metric tonnes as well as five VLGC for AW Shipping.  TradeArabia News Service
FILE - An attendee at a gun rights rally open carries his gun in a holster that reads "We the People" from the Preamble to the United States Constitution, Friday, Jan. 18, 2019, at the Capitol in Olympia, Wash. After a gunman killed 19 children and two teachers at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, on May 24, 2022, several pastors and rabbis around the country have challenged their conservative counterparts with this question: Are you pro-life if you are pro-guns?
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One man was shot by a security guard after threatening the guard with a gun at a nightclub Saturday morning, officials with the Colorado Spring Police Department said.

Around 12:33 a.m., the suspect, who police said is a 20-year-old male, was armed with a handgun and menaced two security guards at a nightclub in the 2500 block of East Platte Avenue, officials said. Fearing he might be shot, one security guard fired his weapon at the suspect, hitting him in the chest.

The suspect then fled the nightclub parking lot and was taken to a hospital by a friend police officials said.
As part of its strategic innovative plan, Expo Centre Sharjah plans to boost the exhibition sector and enhance its competitiveness, with the primary objective of increasing Expo Al Dhaid's event calendar.

This will be done by hosting specialised and high-quality exhibitions that will contribute in the development of the Emirate's economy, industry, trade and tourism.

This was discussed at a meeting recently held at Expo Al Dhaid, which came after an inspection visit led by Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO of Expo Centre Sharjah.

Mohammed Misbah Al Tunaiji, Director of the Sharjah Chambers Branch in Al Dhaid, as well as a number of Al Dhaid employees, also attended the meeting.

Key topics

During the meeting, a variety of key topics were also covered, including Al Dhaid's development plans, the prospect of expanding its facilities, and providing a highly qualified human resource.

In his address, Al Midfa stated: "The Emirate's exhibition sector is progressing forward toward a new hopeful future. This is consistent with its recent success in hosting significant regional and international events. Such events helped to strengthen the exhibition sector's role in assisting various economic, cultural, and trade domains."

"Expo Centre Sharjah is eager to revitalise the exhibition sector in the middle region and ensure its successful return following the pandemic. Thus, the meeting was a positive beginning toward developing plans for the Expo Centre Al Dhaid and anticipating its future prospects," he added.

Contributions

Al Tunaiji emphasised the significant efforts made by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) and the Expo Centre Sharjah in developing the Middle and Eastern regions exhibition sectors. He also underlined Al Dhaid's past contributions to the exhibition sector, including meetings with organisers, traders, and various entities and institutions. As a result, there is a diverse events calendar and the availability of a perfect platform that fits the demands of the region and neighbouring emirates.

On his inspection visit to Expo Centre Al Dhaid, Al Midfa examined the exhibitions' organisational procedures. He was also introduced to the main events that would be hosted and organised in the future, such as the Al Asayel Exhibition and the Al Dhaid agriculture exhibition, by Al Dhaid's personnel.

-- TradeArabia News Service
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FILE PHOTO: Colombian President Ivan Duque arrives to cast his vote at a polling station during the first round of the presidential election in Bogota, Colombia May 29, 2022. REUTERS/Vannessa Jimenez/File Photo
FILE PHOTO: U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy (D-CT) listens before a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing to consider judicial nominees and the nomination of the director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S., May 25, 2022. REUTERS/Leah Millis
Hero mom says Uvalde police threatened her if she did not stop telling her story
FILE PHOTO: A man installs the symbol of India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on a tent during an election campaign rally by the party in Prayagraj, India, February 24, 2022. REUTERS/Ritesh Shukla
Making two announcements, Zoho Corporation said it has launched a right-to-left (RTL) Arabic website builder for its Zoho Commerce platform; and has integrated its apps with Tap Payments, a leading payment solutions provider in the Mena region.

Hyther Nizam, President of Zoho MEA, said: In today's economy, a digital presence is critical for businesses to survive and thrive, and we hope entrepreneurs here will take advantage of our technology to catapult their growth."

He said businesses can set up their online stores in Arabic using Zoho Commerce, accept payments, and manage orders and shipping, all from a single platform.

Zoho Commerce is now among the few global vendors to offer a built-in RTL website builder, with no required plugins, coding configurations, or paid templates.

With this feature, more businesses in the MENA region  even SMEs with limited resources  will be able to build their e-commerce stores in Arabic.

The platform currently integrates with 13 leading payment gateways, including PayTabs, PayPal, 2Checkout and Stripe. The integration with Tap Payments is set to go live soon.

At the same time, the integration with Tap Payments will enable Zoho users to accept digital payments in a convenient, secure, and seamless way.

It will help businesses improve cash flow by getting paid sooner and reducing the costs involved in physical transactions.

With Zoho's Tap Payments integration, businesses can accept multi-currency payments and extend the convenience of multiple local and global payment options,  such as mada, Knet, BenefitPay, Visa, Mastercard, and American Express to their customers. The integration will be available across various Zoho apps, including Zoho Books, VAT-compliant accounting software that offers e-invoicing provisions in line with local laws.

Commenting on the partnership, Ahmed Al Aradi, EVP of Business for Tap Payments said: We are excited to announce this partnership with Zoho and enable a seamless online payment experience to their merchants and customers. Similar to Tap, Zoho is a leader in the ecosystem that can now offer their customers an easy access to the MENA payment ecosystem instantly without any integration requirements.

ZOHO'S GROWTH

In 2021, Zoho grew by 52 per cent in the Middle East and Africa region, the second-fastest growth region for the company.

Zoho also grew its partner network by 55 per cent and tripled its workforce in the region.

Speaking on Zoho's approach to expansion in the Middle East and Africa, Nizam added: "Our transnational localism approach has helped us expand organically in the region, as it is a strategy where our company growth is rooted in local business ecosystem development and community progress.

Aside from increasing our on-ground presence with new offices and hiring local talent, our focus over the years has been to help local entrepreneurs through partnerships with government bodies and local business networks. We are also evolving our offerings to serve the needs of the local market." Tradearabia News Service
Jon Caldara is president of the Independence Institute in Denver and hosts The Devils Advocate with Jon Caldara on Colorado Public Television Channel 12. His column appears Sundays in Colorado Politics.
In this file photo, U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert, at the time a Republican candidate in Colorado's 3rd Congressional District, attends an event staged by supporters on Sept. 4, 2020, in Pueblo West.
The UAEs Jubail Island has highlighted five ways through which it is helping improve the environment as part of its commitment to protect the biodiversity and wildlife and become an eco-friendly destination.



Since the first facilities at Jubail Island were opened to the public in January 2020, steps have been taken by Jubail Island to help conserve the islands nature and surroundings and raise awareness on the importance of the environment through strategic partnerships and collaborations.



With the Emirate of Abu Dhabi established as an environmental hotspot, Jubail Island is continuing the vision of the UAEs late Founding Father, His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan to protect and preserve the mangrove population within the capital and enhance the UAEs ecosystem.



Abdulla Saeed Al Shamsi, Operations Corporate Director of Jubail Island Investment Company said: At Jubail Island, every day is World Environment Day as we continue to strengthen our position as a leading environmental destination in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.



While we are proud of what we have achieved in terms of looking after our biodiversity and wildlife that has attracted thousands of visitors to our site and key partnerships being secured, we know theres so much more we can do. We will ensure that the island will continue to be an eco-friendly destination that will benefit people and our wildlife for years to come.



Here are five initiatives under Jubail Island which are positioning the island as a sustainable destination that benefits the wildlife and visitors:



Jubail Mangrove Park

As one of the most popular landmarks in the capital, Jubail Mangrove Park is the first self-contained educational, nature and leisure destination of its kind in Abu Dhabi. Since opening in January 2020, the destination has attracted a large number of visitors including VIPs such as Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, with the opportunity to enjoy the park while appreciating and improving their understanding of the delicate ecosystem and rich biodiversity.



With the mangroves a key feature of the park, cultural and ecological information are also on display throughout the site, making the visits an enjoyable experience.



Jubail Mangrove Park offers various programs - in partnership with EAD and other environmental entities of the region - that help raise awareness around the mangroves and their biodiversity. It is also home to educational programs for school children and companies as part of their CSR programs to get the chance to explore and learn more about the nature, wildlife and mangroves. The park also offers guided tours with rangers, and tree planting for a lifetime experience with the Islands mangroves ecosystem.



BAADR: Discounts and admission on certain activities for eco-friendly users

Jubail Mangrove Park is among the vendors on BAADR, a unique smartphone application, launched by the Environment Agency  Abu Dhabi that rewards people for completing different environmental actions that will help protect the environment across Abu Dhabi.



Users can earn points by completing a wide range of tasks that are based on BAADRs seven different environmental themes: Reuse, Switch, Grow, Initiate, Conserve, Join and Move. Tasks include ways of reducing the amount of water and electricity, buying locally or using public transport.



Users can redeem their points at Jubail Mangrove Park with incentives including free boardwalk admission at Jubail Mangrove Park, mangrove tree planting activities and a 10 per cent discount on kayaking.



One million mangroves to be planted over next eight years

As part of the UAEs objective to plant 100 million mangroves trees by 2030, JIIC has pledged to plant an additional 1 million new mangroves on the island. To date, more than 350,000 seedlings have already been planted on Jubail Island.



Mangroves are an important part of UAEs natural assets. As well providing a haven for wildlife, and releasing oxygen, mangroves can also help reduce greenhouse gases which causes climate change. Once the planting process is completed at Jubail Mangrove Park, the 1.35 million trees will help capture an additional 1,150 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year.



Jubail Island partners with Etihad Airways

Jubail Island Investment Company (JIIC) and Etihad Airways signed a strategic agreement earlier this year that will see 182,000 mangrove trees being planted over the next five years at Jubail Island. This new mangrove initiative will allow the introduction of new water channels to increase natural tidal flow conveyance into the surrounding wetland areas at Jubail Island.



The collaboration with Etihad Airways also helps promote Jubail Island as a popular ecotourism destination in Abu Dhabi, attracting international visitors to the island.



Emirates NBD to plant more mangroves at Jubail Island

Emirates NBD is also another organisation to join hands with JIIC after announcing an initiative that will see the bank welcome its newly on-boarded clients for the next chapter of their sustainable development journey by gifting them trees. In total, more than 3,000 trees will be planted at the destination.  TradeArabia News Service
A western Iowa physician accused of causing the death of a patient and of posing a high risk to the public has told a judge the state licensing board is out to lynch him based on a phony competency evaluation.

Attorneys for Dr. Andrew Obamwonyi of Storm Lake have taken the Iowa Board of Medicine to court twice in the past year in an effort to block any disciplinary action against him. The doctor claims the board has used cloak-and-dagger tactics to force him to submit to a phony evaluation of his skills and then used that evaluation to lynch him and engage in character assassination.

The Board of Medicine alleges the evaluation resulted in the doctor scoring worse than 99% of other individuals that took the test and exposed serious gaps in the doctors knowledge.

Court records indicate Obamwonyi was issued an Iowa medical license in December 2011 and that his specialties include occupational and emergency medicine.

In March 2016, the board was informed of a malpractice claim pertaining to Obamwonyis care of a patient, identified in state records only as J.P. The board opened, and then closed on the same day, a case involving that patients care. A year later, the board was informed the malpractice claim had resulted in a $50,000 payout and it reopened the case. In September 2017, it ordered a clinical evaluation of Obamwonyis skills.

By then, another investigation involving Obamwonyi was already underway. In May 2016, the board had received a complaint about care provided by Obamwonyi to a different patient, S.C., concerning an alleged failure to adequately diagnose the patients condition.

The board investigated that complaint, but Obamwonyi allegedly failed to respond to the boards inquiries, which resulted in a statement of charges for failure to cooperate with a board investigation. That charge was resolved through a settlement agreement. The underlying complaint related to patient care was investigated with the board eventually issuing Obamwonyi a private letter of warning.

Obamwonyi submitted to the board-ordered evaluation of his skills in April 2018, which identified what the board calls several serious clinical and competency deficiencies. As a result, the board ordered Obamwonyi to submit to a structured, individualized education intervention.

Board questions safety and welfare of patients

Obamwonyi objected to the board order and a contested case hearing was scheduled for May 2021, with the board poised to issue public charges of professional incompetency.

Mike Sellers, Obamwonyis attorney, took the matter to court to block any further action. While identifying his client only as Dr. John Doe, he argued that the boards order for a competency evaluation had contained false statements suggesting the doctor had caused the death of a patient.

Attorneys for the board warned the court that Doe was continuing to see patients without any hindrance on his license. The board should be able to hear the case and make findings as quickly as possible about the potential threat Dr. Doe serves to the public of Iowa with his professional incompetency. The safety and welfare of the patients Dr. Doe serves may be in question and that high risk deserves a resolution as quickly as feasible.

The court denied Sellers request for an order blocking or delaying the hearing on the incompetency charge, noting that the doctors administrative remedies had yet to be exhausted. The case proceeded and in January, Sellers filed a new lawsuit against the board seeking an order that would prevent it from publishing a final decision in the case or imposing any discipline on his client, whom he again identified only as Dr. John Doe.

Within a month, court filings by the judge and the attorney generals office revealed Doe to be Obamwonyi.

According to the most recently filed court records, the first complaint pertaining to Obamwonyi involved a failure to properly diagnose the patients spinal fractures, which resulted in further harm to the patient. The board noted that while a triage nurse had noted the patients neck pain, Obamwonyi said he had never reviewed those notes and did not arrange for an MRI to rule out spinal cord injuries, despite the patients symptoms.

As for the second patient, that complaint dealt an ectopic pregnancy, a condition involves a fertilized egg attached outside the uterus. If left untreated, that condition can lead to life-threatening bleeding. The board noted what it called serious concerns about Obamwonyis evaluation, testing and treatment of that patient, citing clear signs of a potential ectopic pregnancy.

Obamwonyis lawyer, Sellers, told the court recently that while the board has sought to justify its order for a competency evaluation by citing the two previous disciplinary cases, both of those matters were closed by the board when the order was issued. The board did not file a statement of charges in either of these cases after the board carefully considered each, Sellers argued. Therefore, no probable cause could have existed.

Iowa law, Sellers told the court, does not give the licensing board unbridled discretion to resurrect a case after previously deciding there was no probable cause to pursue disciplinary action. These two cases should have remained closed, Sellers told the court, stating that the previous decisions had amounted to an acquittal.

In response, the board has alleged it has acted within its rights and that the 2018 evaluation included a multiple-choice test that revealed gaps in Obamwonyis foundational knowledge. Obamwonyi, the board alleged, scored worse than 99% of other individuals that took the test.

A hearing on the matter was held Friday morning in Polk County District Court, but a decision by the court has yet to be filed.

Iowa Capital Dispatch is part of States Newsroom, a network of news bureaus supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Iowa Capital Dispatch maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Kathie Obradovich for questions: info@iowacapitaldispatch.com. Follow Iowa Capital Dispatch on Facebook and Twitter.

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Its the home stretch for candidates in Iowas primary races, and those competing in the Democratic Senate primary are using their last few days on the campaign trail to emphasize to voters why theyre the best chance to win the U.S. Senate seat come November.

Its not just policy points, but life experiences that voters casting their ballots in the June 7 primary election care about, candidates in Iowas Democratic Senate primary argued.

For former Rep. Abby Finkenauer, its being a young woman. For retired Navy Adm. Michael Franken, 64, its his military service. For city councilor Glenn Hurst, 52, its his time as a medical provider in rural Iowa. All three candidates say theyre best suited to understand and tackle the nations current issues in Washington, D.C. because of the lives they have led.

Finkenauer, 33, has talked on the campaign trail that shes uniquely equipped in this race to talk about abortion access.

It is why we need somebody standing on the floor in 2023 in the United States Senate who is a woman of childbearing age, who does actually have a personal stake in this, she said at an Iowa Press debate in May. It is absurd to me that we dont have more voices standing on that floor right now.

Following the Roe v. Wade leak in May, Democrats nationwide renewed pushes for federally codifying abortion rights. In previous election cycles where abortion was in the national spotlight, more women have found success in primaries, Democratic strategist Jeff Link said.

Democratic candidate Patty Judges campaign rallied against U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassleys vote against Attorney General Merrick Garland as a Supreme Court nominee in 2016. Roxanne Conlin, who ran in 2010, platformed the right to choose in her campaign.

I think if people only have a little bit of information on each candidate, I think theres a huge advantage in being a woman in a statewide Democratic primary, Link said.

All three candidates support abortion rights. Hurst, who runs a medical practice in Minden, said he approaches the issue as a health care provider. He said having helped guide women as patients through the process of considering and finding abortion service shaped his approach to abortion access, and to supporting health care policies like Medicare for All.

I see this very much as an issue of the role the federal government should have in any medical decision, which is an overstep, he said. The only person who should be making this choice is the person making it, with access to unfettered advisement of a medical provider.

Personal experience isnt the only factor at play: On the campaign trail, candidates are also highlighting their political bonafides.

The war between Russia and Ukraine shows the benefits of having someone in office with military experience, Frankens political director, Rep. Ras Smith, said. Franken retired as a vice admiral in the Navy after serving for 39 years, and worked with U.S. Senator Ted Kennedy in Washington as a legislative liaison.

Weve got a candidate thats bringing global experience, Smith said. We have a candidate whos day one ready, has global experience by being there, and knows how we can be better allies, and provide better humanitarian relief.

In a KCRG debate, Franken was the only candidate who said he would support sending U.S. troops to aid Ukraine. If Russian President Vladimir Putin used a nuclear weapon, he said, he would support American military involvement.

Thats a red line, he said. We must step forward. We cannot let the use of weapons of mass destruction against a large population and a democracy ever be used and go without retort.

While Franken has military experience and Hurst serves as a Minden city council member, Finkenauers campaign has emphasized that shes the only candidate who has held federal office in the race as the former First District congresswoman.

Finkenauer said both her time in office and her experience campaigning as a Democrat in Iowa would give her an edge in the general election.

Every single time I have been on the ballot as a Democrat for federal office we have gotten more votes than the Democrats above us, who have had more money, and that is because of the coalition of voters we bring together here, she said in the May debate.

Its a competitive race. According to recent campaign finance reports, Franken had raised over $1 million as of mid May, while Finkenauer has raised more than $600,000.

But winning the primary is just the first step. Tuesdays victor will take on the Republican candidate in the general election: U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley or Iowa Sen. Jim Carlin, R-Sioux City.

Wanting to replace Grassley is not good enough for a successful Democratic campaign in Iowa, strategist Link said. Whichever candidate wins in the primary has to be prepared to present voters with a good argument to replace the senator who has held his seat for over 40 years.

For anybody to be successful, it never really works in Iowa to attack someone for being old, it never really works to attack their stature, he said. You really have to have a reason for replacing somebody whos been there so long.

Iowa Capital Dispatch is part of States Newsroom, a network of news bureaus supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Iowa Capital Dispatch maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Kathie Obradovich for questions: info@iowacapitaldispatch.com. Follow Iowa Capital Dispatch on Facebook and Twitter.

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Hi Venky- You can get through with 1 year of experience. People have done that in the past.- The GMAT score should actually be ok. You fall within the 80% range of the program, on the upper side.- Your Associate PM designation helps. What are your goals in applying for this program?- Try to apply early (the first deadline is today, so aim for the next one). The program has a small class size so applying early helps.- Go through this link to know more about the program: https://www.gyanone.com/masters-of-scie ... niversity/ _________________
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The correct response is (C). This corrects the original sentence by using the plural pronoun they to refer back to sales, rather than the ambiguous it. Additionally, it is more idiomatic to say that sales were expected to decline than to say it could have been assumed they would decline. If we assume something, we take for granted other possibilities that could materialize. If a city sees a decline in tourism, we might EXPECT sales of biographies to decline as well.If you chose (A), this has an awkward double-conditional with could and would. Only one conditional is needed for the meaning to be clear. Additionally, it is ambiguous and has no antecedent. Look for a more concise choice.If you chose (B), we have an awkward double-conditional with might and should. We do not need to introduce a relative clause with the word that.If you chose (D), this choice is written in passive voice. The decline is the object of the verb, so in an active construction, it should come at the end of the sentence. The subject, the noun or pronoun doing the action, should come first in a GMAT clause.If you chose (E), this choice retains the errors from the original sentence and increases the wordiness, additionally muddling the meaning. We dont need the double-conditional of might and would._________________
Danville is getting a third Starbucks location on Piney Forest Road next to Golden Skillet. Also, a new Biscuitville is being built nearby, across from that eaterys current location.

We are happy to confirm that we will be opening a new location at 1011 Piney Forest Road ... this fall, said Starbucks spokesperson Jay Go Guasch.

The store will have about 35 employees and feature a double drive-thru, Go Guasch said.

Starbucks has two other locations in Danville, with one near Danville Mall on Piedmont Drive and the second inside Target at Coleman Marketplace.

The company would not provide any other details regarding the store opening in Danville.

Danville Planning Director Doug Plachcinski attributed the planned third location to increasing demand and growth in the area.

They understand Danville is a growing city, Plachcinski said.

Nearby, a new Biscuitville is being built at 1040 Piney Forest Road across from its current location. The new eatery will be 2,872 square feet and will have 56 customer seats inside, Plachcinski said.

Construction started this spring and the relocation is expected to take place this summer, said Agnes Stevens, a Biscuitville spokesperson.

Company officials hope the move will improve access for customers on Piney Forest and address congestion issues that have plagued the roadway in front of the current location at 1041 Piney Forest Road.

The new restaurant will be our Fresh Southern prototype and feature our dual-lane drive-thru, which we anticipate will improve the traffic flow and convenience for our guests, Stevens said.

Biscuitvilles locations tend to have about 30-40 employees each, Stevens said.

This is the case for Piney Forest Road and would not be affected by the move across the street, she said.

Biscuitville has another Danville location at Riverside Drive. Based in Greensboro, North Carolina, the company has 69 restaurants in Virginia and North Carolina.

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Unhappy with the way it has been treated by a three-judge panel of an appellate court, Mountain Valley Pipeline is asking for a new slate of judges to hear the next round of its long-running legal battle with environmentalists.

In an unusual move, the company building a natural gas pipeline through Southwest Virginia into Chatham filed a motion last month requesting the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to assign a new panel at random.

Mountain Valley is hoping for better luck than it had with a panel that presided over 12 earlier challenges of government approvals for it and the now-defunct Atlantic Coast Pipeline. Those three judges, it says, vacated or stayed all but two of the permits, effectively killing Atlantic Coast and threatening to do the same for Mountain Valley.

The perception created by this Courts deliberate formation of a special pipeline panel  actually a Mountain Valley panel  threatens public confidence in the Courts legitimacy, the motion reads.

The Richmond-based Fourth Circuit, which consists of 15 active judges and three senior judges to hear appeals from five states, has a computer program that randomly assigns three-member panels for incoming cases.

However, the courts rules allow for the same judges initially appointed at random to remain with a case when it comes up again, under certain circumstances.

When the Fourth Circuit was first asked to decide a case involving Mountain Valley  an appeal of a Roanoke judges 2017 decision on the companys powers of eminent domain  the courts program indiscriminately selected three judges.

The luck of the draw went to Chief Judge Roger Gregory and Judges Stephanie Thacker and James Wynn. That led to their assignment to most, but not all, of the future cases in which federal and state permits issued to Mountain Valley were contested repeatedly by environmental groups and local opponents.

But the Fourth Circuit did not follow its internal operating procedures, which only allow such assignments in limited cases, Mountain Valley asserts.

The rule states, in part: Every effort is made to assign cases for oral argument to judges who have had previous involvement with the case to preside over a motion made before oral arguments or a prior appeal in the matter.

Mountain Valley contends that the current cases  which involve petitions from environmental groups seeking the reversal of approvals for the 303-mile pipeline to cross streams and wetlands in Virginia and West Virginia  involve neither a pre-argument motion nor a prior appeal.

The company therefore respectfully asks the Court to correct this departure from its own procedures, George Sibley, a Richmond attorney who represents Mountain Valley, wrote in court papers.

Not only does the Fourth Circuits repeated reliance on the same three judges run counter to its rules, Mountain Valley argues, it also has created a public perception of a deck stacked against large infrastructure projects in general and one private party specifically.

The motion cites reports in The Roanoke Times about how the courts overall record has evoked a saying by pipeline opponents: May the Fourth be with you.

Also included is an editorial from The Wall Street Journal, which opined that oddly, repeated challenges keep landing before the same three-judge panel of Roger Gregory, James Wynn and Stephanie Thacker even though cases are supposed to by assigned to judges at random.

Steve Emmert, a Virginia Beach lawyer and an authority on state and federal appeals who publishes the online Virginia Appellate News & Analysis, said he has never seen a motion like the one filed by Mountain Valley.

To me, its very, very unusual, Emmert said.

The most recent actions by Judges Gregory, Thacker and Wynn came earlier this year, when they cited environmental concerns in rejecting two permits  for the second time  that had been issued to Mountain Valley.

One of the authorizations allowed the pipeline to cross through a 3 1/2 mile segment of the Jefferson National Forest in Giles and Montgomery counties; the other was a biological opinion by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service that found endangered species would not be jeopardized by construction of the buried pipeline.

Mountain Valley then asked the full Fourth Circuit to reconsider the panels decisions, which it declined to do.

That tells me it is unlikely that the court will grant them the relief that they are now seeking, Emmert said.

The Sierra Club and other environmental groups, which are contesting the latest permits for water crossings, urged the court not to grant Mountain Valleys request.

The crux of MVPs motion is that MVP has grown dissatisfied with that initial assignment because it has lost more often than it thinks it should have, wrote attorneys Derek Teaney and Spencer Gall, who represent the coalition.

They say Mountain Valley voiced no objections to the Gregory-Thacker-Wynn trio when it was first appointed at random. In that case, the panel upheld a decision from U.S. District Judge Elizabeth Dillon that favored the pipeline. Dillon ruled that she lacked jurisdiction to hear opponents challenges of the companys use of eminent domain to take property for the controversial project.

Most of the approximately half-dozen cases that involved eminent domain were omitted from Mountain Valleys calculations that it won only two of the 12 cases decided by the panel.

In so doing, MVP distorts [the panels] actual track record, the Sierra Clubs motion states.

There is no reason to disqualify the three judges for making rulings that were clearly supported by the facts, the motion continues. Those facts show systemic flaws in the permitting of MVPs pipeline, rather than a deck stacked against it, Teaney and Gall wrote.

Many of the cases decided by the panel involved what it found to be inadequate oversight by government agencies to control muddy runoff from the massive construction project. Mountain Valley has been cited nearly 400 times by Virginia regulators for violating erosion and sedimentation control regulations since work began in 2018.

In support of the Fourth Circuits process of assigning three-judge panels, the Sierra Club cited an article from the Texas Law Review. Two law professors noted that having the same judges hear similar cases arises out of notions of judicial efficiency, allowing those already familiar with a case to remain involved.

Legal battles have delayed completion of the pipeline by nearly four years and doubled its cost, now estimated at $6.6 billion.

Mountain Valley spokeswoman Natalie Cox said the company respects the judicial system, and accordingly is requesting a new panel selection. She declined to comment further. Teaney, an attorney with Appalachian Mountain Advocates, declined to comment.

The future of the project could rest on what the Fourth Circuit does next.

Challenges of a Virginia State Water Control Board approval for stream crossings, and a similar authorization by West Virginia, are now before the court.

Mountain Valley is also seeking, for the third time, a permit struck down earlier by the court for the pipeline to pass through the national forest and an opinion from the Fish and Wildlife Service that construction would not jeopardize endangered species. Should those approvals be re-issued later this year, additional lawsuits would likely follow.

The last brief due in Mountain Valleys request for the random selection of a new panel was filed last week. A decision is expected in the coming weeks or months.
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A 16-year-old was arrested after a reported online post to shoot at a school, the Danville Police Department announced Wednesday afternoon.

Authorities said the Virginia Fusion Center  an organization comprised of state and federal agencies  notified Danville police of a social media post that contained a non-location-specific threat to shoot at a school that originated from the city of Danville area, a news release reported.

That launched a joint investigation effort by Danville police, Danville Public Schools and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Within hours, the identity and address of the individual who made the post was established and he was taken into custody at his residence located in the city of Danville, police said in the release. A search of the residence determined that no firearms were present.

The unidentified boy is facing a felony charge of making a threat of death or bodily injury to persons on school property.

Hes being held at Danvilles W.W. Moore Jr. Juvenile Detention Center.

The investigation into this incident revealed that numerous persons who knew the juvenile observed and responded to his post, however we are not aware of any of those persons reporting the threat to law enforcement, officials said in the release. In a time where the nation is mourning tragedy in a school setting, the Danville Police Department would ask the community to immediately notify law enforcement of threats or perceived threats to shoot, bomb, or in any way harm others they may become aware of.

Danville police urge residents to tell authorities of any alarming behavior and rumors of an imminent threat, saying it can help to avert a tragic event.

The department trains for critical incidents by partnering with the fire department, public schools and Danville Life Saving Crew.

The Danville Police Department also provides (CRASE) Citizen Response to Active Shooter Event training for the members of the community who are interested in learning best practices if responding or present during an active shooter event, police wrote in the release.

Groups interested in hosting a training session may contact Lt. P.R. Deel at deelpr@danvilleva.gov.

To send tips of any crime, contact police by calling patrol at 434-799-6510, investigations at 434-799-6508, 911, Crime Stoppers at 434-793-0000 or through social media. In addition, residents can use the crime tips app CARE.
CHARLOTTE  Federal authorities say a man has been arrested in Charlotte after he was stopped in the citys airport with over 20 pounds of cocaine concealed in the seat cushions of a motorized wheelchair.

U. S. Customs and Border Protection officers encountered the traveler as he was arriving at Charlotte Douglas International Airport from the Dominican Republic this week, according to a Friday news release.

His answers didnt match up. His physical purported handicap did not match up. That was a tell-tale sign that there was something suspicious, Mike Prado, a Homeland Security Investigations deputy special agent, told WSOC-TV.

Four packages containing over 23 pounds of cocaine were discovered within the seat cushions, with an estimated street value of $378,000, according to the news release.

The 22-year-old man was charged with trafficking in cocaine. Officials say he was a lawful, permanent U.S. resident.

Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
ROCKINGHAM COUNTY  A Pine Hall woman has been charged with felony death by vehicle in connection with the May 17 head-on collision that killed a Mayodan man.

Raymond Edwards, 86, was traveling north on US 220 Business to a Stoneville High School reunion when Sarah Christine Smith, 36, of 3757 Hwy. 311, Pine Hall, struck him head-on while impaired, according to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol.

Smith was charged in late April with failure to appear April 19 in Rockingham County District Court on other charges, according to court records. Information about related charges were not immediately available.

The charge Smith faces for Edwards' death carries a punishment of between 38 and 160 months in prison and fines in an amount a judge deems appropriate, according to North Carolina statutes.
DANVILLE, Va.  The COVID-19 surge is back.

The Pittsylvania-Danville Health District joins the majority of others across the state officially in a surge trajectory, the University of Virginias Biocomplexity Institute reported late last week.

A surge is defined as a doubling of COVID-19 cases based on a 100,000-person population scale. Out of the 35 health districts in the state, 30 are now in a surge.

Pittsylvania County also has joined Danville in the medium community level for COVID-19 spread defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. At this designation, masks are only suggested for people at a high risk of severe illnesses.

Neighboring Halifax and Franklin counties jumped to the high level last week, meaning federal officials recommend wearing face coverings for all indoor public settings.

Danville and Pittsylvania County combined are adding about 29 new infections a day, a 480% increase compared this time last year. The current caseloads are likely an undercount given more accessible at-home testing. Results from those kits arent included in the official numbers from the Virginia Department of Health.

A similar situation is unfolding at the state level with a more than 800% spike in cases year-over-year.

Driven by a subvariant  officially known as BA.2.12.1  of omicron, cases are expected to continue rising into the summer months, UVa predicts.

With gatherings for spring holidays and graduations, numbers will rise, Brookie Crawford, a spokesperson for the state health department, told the Register & Bee earlier this month.

Four different models show a varying degree of surges, but all indicate a steep incline of infections will come.

One scenario shows cases rising to a peak of about 65,000 a week statewide in the middle of July. By comparison  with about 3,200 daily cases now  the commonwealth is averaging about 22,400 new cases per week.

Another scenario indicates a peak of about 105,000 weekly cases in the middle of July, according to UVas latest report released Friday.

Locally, its possible the Pittsylvania-Danville Health District could see more than 1,500 COVID-19 cases per week by July 17, a figure that would top the record level of Januarys surge.

Subvariant

The omicron subvariant is dominant in Virginia, according to methods used by the CDC and UVa to estimate the circulating strains. Every time a new variant or subvariant emerges, it holds the power to spread more quickly, something scientists refer to as the effective reproduction rate.

This is sometimes mitigated by vaccinations or previous infections, but not always.

Viruses can evolve to increase their natural reproduction rate, or to increase their effective reproduction rate by getting around these protections, UVa researchers wrote Friday.

This means even someone up-to-date on vaccinations can still contract the illness, known as a breakthrough case. However, vaccinated individuals arent likely to develop serious illnesses requiring hospitalizations.

Those with up-to-date vaccinations have the most protection, researchers wrote in the UVa report. One study found boosted individuals 70% reduction in risk of hospitalization or death from an omicron infection.

Booster doses are available to anyone 5 and older and viewed as an extra layer of protection with new subvariants emerging. People 50 and older and those who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should receive a second booster, according to the CDC.

Omicron and its subvariants do not appear  in general  to cause as severe of illnesses compared to previous strains. Thats evident with Januarys record surge that didnt result and an equally proportionate number of hospitalizations.

Researchers are still trying to sort out to what degree this was caused by reduced natural variance, or by factors such as immunity caused by vaccines or previous infection, new treatments, or prevention efforts like masking, UVa researchers said.

Hospitals

With the upcoming surge, its possible the daily hospitalizations could slightly top the January wave, UVa reports.

UVa has changed its forecasting models on the fly since the variants make it difficult to project the impacts.

While no forecast is perfect, these methods have provided reasonably good warnings of the impact of successive waves on hospitals, the report stated.

However, its possible hospital stays will be shorter this time, especially with more treatments available. That could lower the overall burden for the commonwealths health care systems.

The most important lesson about virulence, however, is that, despite breakthrough cases, reinfections, and higher effective reproduction rates, Virginias health is still in our hands, researchers wrote in the report. Vaccination is our best defense against severe outcomes from COVID-19.
For All U of U Health Patients & Visitors
Ketchams celebrate 60th

Ronald and Bessie (Nussbacher) Ketcham proudly celebrate the milestone of their 60th wedding anniversary.

Ron had just graduated from high school, and Bessie had a year to go, when they married in Sheridan, Wyoming, at the Lutheran Church on June 9, 1962. From there, they made their home in Billings.

Ron retired in 2006 after 21 years as a regional salesman with the International Paper Company, and Bessie retired in 2007 after 29 years as a school secretary with the Billings School District.

In 2008, they made a major life choice and decided to move to Lewiston, Idaho, where they could be closer to family. This offered them the opportunity to make new friends, embrace a new community and embark on building and enjoying their first custom home.

During this time, they also spent many years enjoying the summers of the Lewis Clark Valley while they followed their retirement dreams as snowbirds wintering in Arizona.

We are so grateful for their love and example.

From their union, Ron and Bessie have two children, Jaynie (Bryan) Bentz and Justin Ketcham. The branches of their family tree grew to include two grandchildren, Samantha (Dustin) Voytoski and Jacquelyn (Preston) Tescher, and two great-grandchildren, Brooks and Collins.

In celebration of their milestone, their wish is to travel and spend time visiting with family and dear friends. Please feel free to send them congratulations by phone, text or Facebook message. They would love to hear from you.

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The Archie Bray Foundation for the Ceramic Arts recently received a $15 million endowment gift from the Windgate Foundation, the largest gift ever in The Brays 71-year history.

It definitely came as a pretty major surprise and it was definitely much larger than I hoped or imagined for, said Steven Young Lee, The Brays director emeritus and special projects manager.

Windgate Foundation, which is dedicated to supporting contemporary craft and visual arts in the United States, has been helping support The Bray for more than a decade.

Money generated from the endowment will help support the staffing and other costs accompanying The Brays recent growth and expansion.

It will also help support the Brays priority to expand its reach into underserved communities to those who dont typically have access to ceramic art, said Lee.

Some funds will help support The Brays international artist-in-residence program, which Windgate Foundation has contributed to for years.

It will also help The Bray to increase inclusion, representation, belonging and equity in the ceramics community and to support artists of color.

In recent years, The Bray has been partnering with such artists as:

Theaster Gates, a socially-engaged artist from Chicago whose passion is revitalizing communities through art;

Cannupa Hanska Luger, an internationally acclaimed Native American artist and 2022 Guggenheim fellow who makes monumental installations and social collaborations; and

the innovative Manchester Craftsmens Guild, a Pittsburgh nonprofit offering art and music classes to over 500 young people each year plus thousands of public-school students.

The first gift we ever received from them (Windgate) was to support the 60th Anniversary event back in 2011, said Lee.

They were very good about seeing where The Bray was, what the needs were and how we were growing and changing.

They provided ongoing grants to support the artist-in-residence program and direct support for artists.

They also supported the capital campaign, contributing a $750,000 matching grant to the $6 million capital campaign to redesign the North Campus, which included building the new Education and Research Center, renovating offices, remodeling the historic pottery, adding a new sales gallery, new visiting artist housing, a remodeled exhibition gallery and permanent collection display.

Theyve been just very steady with us, very consistent, said Lee.

They were hugely supportive in terms of our survival during the pandemic. They saw how dire it was for so many of us. They came in with a series of COVID relief grants  which was pretty significant.

We went through some pretty difficult times, but funders like Windgate really helped us steady the ship and emerge out of it in a good position.

During COVID, the foundation was looking at the long-term stability of important craft organizations, Lee said, and the director reached out to say they were considering an endowment gift for The Bray.

I never expected a gift of this size to be possible, honestly.

You know there were some bright spots during the pandemic  and this is one of them.

The Windgate Foundation has been an incredible longtime partner, and we are humbled by and extremely grateful for this transformative gift.

Through this endowment, Windgate is providing The Bray with both immediate support and long-term stability, he said.

The endowment proceeds will only cover a portion of The Brays annual need, said Lee, but this provides us with a solid foundation from which we can continue to evolve and foster opportunities in the ceramic arts.

We are deeply impressed with the work and vision of The Bray, said Windgate Foundation Executive Director Patricia Forgy in a press release. Our significant investment represents both the trust we have going forward and a deep belief in the mission and values. We encourage others to join us in support of this important ceramic arts institution.

Founded in 1951 by brickmaker Archie Bray, The Bray has earned an international reputation as a center for ceramic arts. Its mission is to enhance commitment to, and investment in, the ceramic arts.

The 26-acre former brickyard is a gathering place for emerging and professional ceramic artists.

In addition to its international artist-in-residence program, it offers workshops and community classes, curated exhibitions, an on-site and virtual sales gallery, and a ceramic supply shop offering Bray Clay and technical support to artists from around the world.

The Bray is located at 2915 Country Club Ave. For more information, visit https://archiebray.org/.

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Shortly after celebrating the 50 year anniversary of Montanas Constitution, a proposed ballot measure appears to be an attempt to cast it aside.

Backers of I-191 seek voter approval to designate the Gallatin and Madison River watersheds as Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW), a protected status only found in national parks and wilderness. In doing so, I-191 circumvents the economic protections afforded to Montanans by our Constitution and sets a dangerous precedent for the future.

While legislative bodies have authority to levy taxes and appropriate new spending, regulators can also spend taxpayer dollars by imposing regulations that cost property owners dearly to comply with. Montanas Constitution accounts for this by guaranteeing property owners the due process of law in regulatory proceedings and just compensation before a regulatory taking when government actions result in the owners property interest being taken or damaged.

Thanks to these important protections, Montana state agencies have rigorous processes in place to afford due process and ensure policy decisions are constitutionally and economically sound. For instance, the law requires all state agencies to conduct a thorough assessment of how each regulation impacts property owners prior to implementation.

I-191 bypasses constitutional protections to impose the will of a well-connected Bozeman based law firm backing the proposal. The proposal has already been twice rejected by the state Board of Environmental Review (BER), which concluded that it would result in a significant regulatory taking, not to mention be practically and economically unfeasible.

Attorney General Austin Knudsen echoed BERs findings when he found I-191 legally insufficient, saying the proposal unquestionably causes a regulatory taking without providing just compensation. After failing to convince regulators to approve their proposal, I-191 backers are now betting they can convince voters to do their bidding.

Montanans can only guess at the consequences to the state if I-191 passes. Unlike when this proposal was previously submitted to regulators, this time there will be no environmental impact statement, no social or economic impact review and no state or local government consultation.

If the 2007 impact statement from the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is any guide, Montanans can expect I-191 to destroy economic activity in Gallatin County. DEQ estimated the proposal would reduce the residential development allowed in Big Sky by 89% and commercial development by 99%. Local jobs in construction, real estate, transportation, and local government would be lost. Affordable workforce housing projects, so desperately needed, would be shut down.

A vast coalition of groups has lined up to oppose I-19I, again predicting detrimental effects to the local economy, property owners and environmental restoration. Another common theme brought up by many is the harm done to the robust collaborative process currently in place with the regulating agencies.

Numerous local outdoor and conservation groups have worked tirelessly for years collaborating with these agencies on river access and restoration projects. Now they worry these projects will be destroyed by I-191, science and local input be damned.

The precedent set by I-191 could open pandoras box for harmful regulations imposed by controversial activist groups with out of state big-money backing. Any radical group with enough money to influence voters might simply choose to sidestep normal regulatory procedure to impose costly regulations via the initiative process, depriving Montanans of the economic protections owed to them by our Constitution.

The Montana Constitutions guaranteed economic protections are foundational to our way of life, shielding Montanans from radical, big-moneyed influences and ensuring local collaboration around state policy decisions. By circumventing Montanas Constitution, I-191 erodes these important economic protections. If anything, we should be adding more emphasis on the economic and societal impacts of regulations, not less.

Kendall Cotton is president and CEO of the Frontier Institute, a think tank dedicated to breaking down government barriers so all Montanans can thrive.

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DECATUR  Police said a Decatur man accused of stabbing a male victim during an argument still had the bloody knife on him as well as blood-stained hands, and he was wearing blood-spattered clothes.

The 45-year-old man had been arrested the evening of May 31 shortly after the attack, which was reported to have taken place in the 1100 block of East Lincoln Avenue.

A sworn affidavit said a woman had found the 32-year-old victim, accompanied by two juveniles, fleeing along the street with the suspect chasing them.

She (the witness) said  she transported (the victim) to HSHS St. Marys Hospital, said Officer Austin Clark, who signed the affidavit. (She) advised at this time (the victim) was in and out of consciousness.

Doctors treating the victim said he had a stab wound in his side which measured more than an inch long.

Clark said police reviewed video surveillance footage that captured some of the violence and showed the knife-wielding man to be the aggressor.

When officers made contact (with him), he was found to have the knife described by witnesses in his front right pants pocket, Clark added. The knife was observed to have suspected blood on it as well. Officers also observed him to have what appeared to be blood on his hands and clothes.

The man is quoted as admitting he had injured the victim. The affidavit quotes him as saying: ...He did use his knife to stab or cut (he said he could not remember specifics) (the victim) as a means of self-defense, added Clark.

The officer said the man claimed the two of them had been arguing but he could not remember what the argument was about.

The man was booked on a preliminary charge of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon. A check of the Macon County Jail Sunday showed he remained in custody with bail set at $35,000, requiring him to post a bond of $3,500 to be freed.

All preliminary charges are subject to review by the state's attorneys office.

Contact Tony Reid at (217) 421-7977. Follow him on Twitter: @TonyJReid

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New Braunfels, TX (78130)

Today

Cloudy early, becoming mostly sunny this afternoon. Near record high temperatures. High 101F. Winds S at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Clear to partly cloudy. Low 74F. Winds S at 10 to 20 mph.
BRISTOL, Va.  Members of the Bristol Virginia City Council received an update Saturday on a lawsuit filed by its sister city Bristol, Tennessee and about their response.

The council met with City Manager/City Attorney Randy Eads for an hour and 40 minutes in a called closed session to review details of the complaint and a companion motion filed May 26 in U.S. District Court in Abingdon.

The meeting was held outside the presence of the public and news media because it involved legal action. No action was taken and a second closed session is scheduled Tuesday at 5:30 p.m.

We met today in order to review the lawsuit and path forward in order to minimize the litigation expense on the taxpayer, Eads said Saturday afternoon. Ultimately, the citizens of both Bristol, Virginia and Bristol, Tennessee, will be paying for this litigation which Bristol, Virginia, is seeking to avoid. Bristol, Virginia, would rather spend money on fixing issues at the landfill instead of spending money on outside counsel who specialize in environmental issues.

Concerns over landfill emissions have raged in the Twin City for about a year and a half.

In its complaint and a motion for an injunction, Bristol, Tennessee asked the court to require Bristol, Virginia to begin work immediately to rectify a series of problems at its landfill  based on recommendations made by an expert panel convened by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality and contained in an April 25 report.

However, Eads notified the state agency May 18 via email that the city had received the expert panels report, it received DEQs May 6 request for an action plan and that the city plans to address the panels recommendations outlined in the report and have a plan submitted to DEQ on or before July 6.

Obviously, Bristol, Tennessee chose to pursue litigation with Bristol, Virginia about the citys landfill, Eads said Saturday afternoon. Many of the items demanded by Bristol, Tennessee would have been covered in the citys action plan that is due to the DEQ by July 6.

Additionally, on May 27, Bristol, Virginia sent out a three-page proposed settlement agreement which essentially agrees with the assertions made in Bristol, Tennessees complaint, offers to address a number of specific issues  as recommended by the panel as soon as designs can be developed and approved by the state  and to pay Bristol, Tennessee $250,000 toward its legal fees.

Leaders on the Tennessee side have yet to respond to the proposed settlement.

Bristol, Virginia has 21 days from the date of being served with the complaint to file its response with the court. Eads said that response has been drafted and is being reviewed by outside counsel.

Senior Judge James P. Jones has scheduled a hearing on Bristol, Tennessees motion for a preliminary injunction on June 21 at 9:30 a.m., in U.S. District Court in Abingdon.

Last week, Virginia lawmakers approved a biennial budget that includes $2 million in funding for the landfill.

Del. Israel OQuinn, R-Bristol, said their intent  and the language authorizing the payment  is that those funds are to help pay for infrastructure improvements at the landfill not for additional consulting with the expert panel.

In its report, panel members offered to remain available to assist the city with its response.

What they [panel] have said, I see as the roadmap going forward, OQuinn said Friday.
BRISTOL, Va.  The once bustling former campus of Virginia Intermont College is again in decay.

Some 16 silent months after its apparent replacement Virginia Business College enthusiastically proclaimed intentions to begin classes, the Moore Street campus remains dark and lifeless. The grass is more than 3 feet high campuswide, some vacant buildings have broken windows while others are propped open  suggesting uninvited guests are making themselves at home. There is visible roof damage, and some buildings sport warning signs, posted by the city, deeming them unsafe for human occupancy.

Reality is in stark contrast to the vibrant scenes portrayed on the colleges website with its detailed course listing, admissions policy, application for admission and campus map.

This past week marked eight years since VI officials notified the State Council on Higher Education for Virginia the institution was voluntarily closing amid a fatal cocktail of millions of dollars in debt with no ability to repay it, lost academic accreditation and rapidly diminished student enrollment.

What remains is a collection of aging brick structures  some listed on the National Register of Historic Places  but with an estimated $20 million in deferred maintenance.

A bank put the campus up for public auction in December 2016. The high bidder at $3.3 million was U.S. Magis International Education Center, a New York-based entity owned by Chinese businessman Zhiting Zhang.

The 5-and-a-half years since have been marked by a series of stops and starts followed by a long pause since February 2021 when college officials announced plans to open almost immediately, but never did.

Uncertainty remains the watchword.

The Virginia Business College remains in a period of uncertainty, Virginia Business College President Gene Couch said in an email responding to questions about the future of the college. I have communicated the information regarding the campus to Mr. Zhang, the principal owner of the property, and ultimately it will be his decision if he wants to invest more money into the campus.

As you know, COVID-19 has had a negative impact on the college and our ability to move forward with operations, Couch wrote.

Amid the uncertainty, city officials are concerned about the future of the once spotless campus.

We had our building inspector/codes enforcement person send letters  at the request of [college] President Dr. Couch to the owners in China, saying you have 30 days to address the situation. You dont have to fix it in 30 days, but you need to have a plan, Vice Mayor Neal Osborne said.

The campus is located adjacent to the Virginia Hill Historic District, less than a mile from downtown.

If you drive by, the first thing you see is the grass isnt being mowed, but thats a minor thing in the grand scheme of things. There are several buildings that are unsafe for any human entry. You can see sunlight from the fourth floor to the first floorits a problem, Osborne said.

There are multiple broken windows on the ground floor of the former VI gymnasium and many of the windows on upper floors of Main Hall were open this week  clear indications people have been inside or attempted to gain entry.

Ive talked to some people who have done commercial rehabilitation of big buildings and the cost estimates they give me are just astronomical, Osborne said. I dont know what the owners are willing to do. Im curious to see what theyll say, but Im very concerned what the costs could be to really fix it.

The current owners performed some work on multiple buildings back in 2019.

The business college only planned to use six buildings  the auditorium, rebranded Bristol Hall; the former Intermont Residence Hall, rebranded Holston Residence Hall; the student center; the gym, which was rebranded the fitness and wellness center; the former science building which was rebranded Blue Ridge Hall, the library and the presidents home, which served as administrative offices.

It didnt plan to use the East Hall, Main Hall, West Hall and Hodges Hall, the humanities building or the former arts center.

If you follow the path to a logical conclusion we can fine them for unsafe structures, not mowing their grass, weve marked them unsafe for human entry. Theoretically we could condemn it at some point. There are a lot of paths you can go down, that you dont want to go down, Osborne said. It might never be a school again but, at the end of the day, the best option might be to throw in the towel and sell it. Find somebody with a lot of money who will buy this, renovate it for housing or maybe renovate it for another college. They either need to pay the money to fix it up or find somebody who will.

City Manager Randy Eads hopes the problems will be fixed.

We have addressed that in at least one letter to the president of Virginia Business College. Im not sure what their response is going to be but they are on a time line to correct the issues associated with the buildings and grounds at Virginia Business College, Eads said.

Asked about it attracting the homeless, Eads said, I think there have been indications people have been living in at least one of the buildings.

Stops and starts

After the December 2016 auction, the representative for Magis International said their intention was to establish a college on the Moore Street campus.

But how does a college become a college?

In Virginia, an institution can call itself a college once it is certified to operate by the State Council on Higher Education in Virginia. It is a two-step process that means the college has a governing board, has submitted and gained approval of its coursework, has a trained faculty, operating plans and met a myriad other requirements imposed by the council in what can be one to two years of review.

In the case of Virginia Business College, it has gained that approval on two occasions and is presently certified  but that certification expires in a few months, according to council spokesperson Laura Osberger.

We have not received any information about their plans, Osberger recently replied to questions via email. As you may know, the school was certified to operate by SCHEV on October 1, 2021. Their certificate to operate is valid through September 30, 2022, at which time they will need to recertify for another year. All schools certified by SCHEV must recertify annually.

School representatives first attended a SCHEV program in 2018 and began the application process. In January 2019, original Virginia Business College President Randall Blevins confirmed the school had submitted its application to SCHEV, and he was optimistic provisional approval could occur soon.

The councils board granted that provisional approval at its March 2019 meeting  culminating a nearly yearlong process. That vote also initiated a 12-month period where VBC officials were to complete repairs to buildings, advertise for students, recruit and hire faculty and have their credentials reviewed and approved before final certification was granted.

Less than one month later, however, Blevins confirmed he was no longer employed by the college. It was later learned that Blevins and the faculty at that time were forced to resign. In the wake of their departures, the original college board resigned.

In June 2019, former Virginia Highlands Community College President Gene Couch was named to run the business school. One of his first actions was to withdraw the preliminary certification.

We took that opportunity to update the plan consistent with the change in leadership, Couch told the Herald Courier in June 2019. What Im working on now is resubmitting the application, so its consistent with the plan going forward, the new plan, which would better reflect the direction of the college.

Couch said the original plan was too quick to accomplish everything required.

What was awkward was the timing. Once we get all these improvements made on campus, we have to get an inspection, a certificate of occupancy. The timing was really complicating with an August [2019] start date. Its almost July, and weve been hustling pretty good to get things done. This will allow us to be more intentional in our efforts and advertise for students in a cycle that is more in line with what a traditional academic year would be, Couch said at that time.

The revised timeline was to secure the certification and open in August 2020.

VBC also named a new board that summer and, at the councils urging, later added two more members with experience in higher education administration.

Their application was resubmitted and, on Oct. 28, 2019, the state council again granted the provisional certification for VBC following a board discussion that included concerns from council members regarding the previous turmoil.

These removals meant that the senior administrators and board members that SCHEV had vetted as a condition of the provisional certification were no longer affiliated with the school, thus falsifying the basis of councils March 19 action and casting doubt on the bona fides of the application submitted in support of that action, according to the report.

Furthermore, as a nonprofit institution governed by a board of directors, it should not have been possible for anyone other than the board to remove the colleges existent staff. That this occurred at all called into question the legitimacy of the schools purported governance arrangements; i.e., it suggested that an entity other than the board was exercising true control over the school, according to the report.

Minutes from that council meeting also reflect there was also discussion regarding its status as a nonprofit is under review with the IRS.

A check last week of GuideStar.com, a listing of all U.S. nonprofits, doesnt include Virginia Business College.

College officials began an extensive campus renovation in 2019, repairing building roofs, obtaining a certificate of occupancy and they started recruiting and hiring faculty.

That all stopped June 25, 2020.

With the coronavirus pandemic raging worldwide, the colleges board of directors voted to defer opening until an undefined later date.

The impact of the coronavirus has slowed the work needed for our full SCHEV approval and preparations for our initial fall semester. As a result, the board determined that we need to delay the start of the college to a future date, board Chairman Dale Cook said in the June 2020 statement. It can be argued that the college has been hit twice by COVID-19 once in China and now in America.

Most U.S. colleges and universities suspended in-person instruction in March 2020 and many employed a mix of virtual and in-person learning during the fall 2020 and spring 2021 semesters.

Virginia Business College completed its certification requirements and the school announced through its social media channels in January 2021 that applications for the spring 2021 semester were being accepted with plans to begin classes Feb. 1.

Due to COVID-19, the schools first semester course offerings were to be online with in-person options for students living in this area. The college planned to move to a residential model in fall 2021, according to the 2021 statement.

However no students enrolled during that brief span of time and the campus remained silent. When contacted in April 2021, President Couch confirmed there would be no summer classes, and there was no specific information regarding its future. Much like today.
This column is the third in a series aimed at helping citizens who have been in a motor-vehicle wreck resolve their claim fairly, sometimes without the need to hire an attorney.

But when should you consider hiring an attorney?

Attorneys represent clients with these claims on a contingent fee basis. If you fail to recover on your claim because of your contributing fault (because of North Carolinas challenging 1% contributory negligence rule), you do not owe the attorney a fee, so the attorney takes a risk with you. If you do prevail, the attorney fee is generally one-third of the recovery, and higher if a lawsuit must be filed, since the attorneys work increases significantly.

Do you need an attorney for property damages only?

Example: The insurance company for the at-fault party offers you $6,000 for your totaled vehicle. You feel you have a really clean vehicle, and you are entitled to more. An attorney secures an $8,000 settlement. But you receive, net of your one-third fee, $5,360. So, you receive a settlement of more money, but you net less of what my non-attorney father called your walking out the door dollars.

Unless the damage is to a much larger vehicle worth considerably more, hiring an attorney on a contingent fee basis is likely not going to net you more after-fee dollars on a routine property-damage claim. Thats why this column suggested last time that you ask your regular attorney to provide you some sound advice as a courtesy.

Your attorneys office, after a review of the basic facts, can recommend you ask for a higher settlement amount, based on an objective but more experienced view of your loss. And your attorney should try to accommodate you as a courtesy in these generally limited time-spent situations because it is the right thing to do since you are a client.

If you have a personal injury claim, an insurance company is not going to offer you the full amount of the value of your claim unless you can demonstrate objectively why it is fair for you to receive more. Such detailed information and knowledge is generally beyond the experience of most citizens. (Most claims without an attorney settle for 30% of their value, one study shows.)

A good rule of thumb: If you receive ongoing medical treatment beyond a one-time visit to the ER and your injuries continue to cause you pain and physical limitations, it probably makes sense to consider hiring an attorney.

What does the attorney know that you do not have any reason to know? Your damages involve not only medical bills but potential future medical bills, credibly forecast, as well. You also may have lost wages, future pain and suffering, and all manner of other damages, which your attorney can quantify and document objectively and clearly. You will want to do that, because once you settle your claim, it is a settlement of any and all claims, known or not yet known.

These examples assume you are not at fault in any way. But be mindful the insurance company is going to assert contributory negligence if it can because of North Carolinas all-or-nothing contributory negligence rule. Many cases are going to require you or your attorney, therefore, to fight through this claimed defense, since the 1% bar is so low.

Next time: Why does the insurance company want you to settle your case quickly, even though you have years to make a claim? And what you may not know about the full extent of your legitimate damages early on.

Remember: An informed choice is a smart choice.

Mike Wells is a partner with Wells Law, PLLC in Winston-Salem. Contact him at mike@wellslaw.us or 336-283-8700.
In the backyard of his older brothers house, Henry Jerome White did what he grew up doing  working on cars.

It had been 26 years since he had been able to do what he loved. For more than a year, he was held in the Forsyth County Jail and then for more than 20 years, White was behind bars in state prison for first-degree murder in the 1996 death of Carl Earl Marshburn. Forsyth County prosecutors alleged that he shot Marshburn, the manager of Earl Scheib Paint and Body Shop in Winston-Salem, twice and then robbed him. White claimed innocence. He was supposed to spend the rest of his life in prison.

But on Thursday, May 19, White was outside in the hot sun, his white T-shirt colored with splotches of red paint as he sanded a bright-red 1977 Corvette by an outbuilding on his brothers property in Kernersville. Small with a muscled frame, White is soft-spoken. His eyes are wide to the world that, until now, he hasnt seen much of beyond prison walls.

He is at peace.

A little more than a week before, White was released from prison. In an unusual arrangement, he saw his first-degree murder conviction thrown out in exchange for a plea to second-degree murder. Judge David Hall of Forsyth Superior Court sentenced White to between about 13 years and 16 years in prison. He had already served more than that, and later that day, May 9, he was released from the Forsyth County Jail.

His case was unique. Under todays legal standard, his first-degree murder conviction would have already been overturned because a state appellate court found that a Forsyth County prosecutor illegally used race to get rid of two potential Black female jurors, admitting it when challenged. But his case was upheld because back in the late 1990s, it wasnt enough.

According to a motion filed by prosecutors and his attorney, another issue won his freedom  his trial attorney, Robert Leonard, was so ineffective at his job that Whites constitutional rights were violated. Because of the mistakes Leonard made at trial, White was denied a fair shot at fighting the first-degree murder charge he was facing.

Now, Whites main concerns are figuring out the world  he has streets to learn and smartphones to decipher. At 54, he has children, grandchildren and two great-grandchildren (who are on the way) to connect with.

I always asked God not to let me die in prison and here I am, he said.

A long journey

White grew up in Baltimore, Maryland and South Carolina. At one point, his mother moved to Baltimore, Maryland, where his uncle, Robert, his mothers oldest brother, had an auto shop.

White said he would spend days in his uncles shop, learning about cars and cleaning up the floors.

He was enamored with exterior work (he didnt like to do engine work) and he worked on cars from the time he was 12 until he was locked up at age 28.

White said he worked for Earl Scheib Paint and Body Shop and helped oversee operations in several states, including Virginia, South Carolina and North Carolina.

On Feb. 16, 1996, Henry White and his cousin, Harry Beaufort, went to the paint shop in Winston-Salem so that Beaufort could pick up his last paycheck. Beaufort told Winston-Salem police and later testified at Whites trial that White went into the shop and he heard two gunshots. Beaufort testified that White later said he had shot Marshburn and stolen money from him.

White told police that he gave Beaufort a 9mm gun for safekeeping and that he dropped Beaufort off at a gas station before going to the paint shop to pick up the check. He said when he left the shop, Marshburn was still alive. Later, at a nearby parking lot, Beaufort got into the car and told White that he had shot Marshburn and robbed him.

To this day, White said he had nothing to do with Marshburns murder and that Beaufort was the one who committed the crime. Beaufort was never charged.

Marshburns body was found at about 9 a.m. on Feb. 17, 1996. Money was missing from the pocket of his shirt, where witnesses told police that Marshburn was known to keep money.

Forsyth County prosecutors pursued the death penalty against White but a Forsyth County jury recommended life in prison without the possibility of parole.

White appealed his case to the N.C. Court of Appeals on a number of issues, including racial discrimination in jury selection.

A U.S. Supreme Court decision called Batson V. Kentucky had already made it illegal to use race in jury selection. Prosecutors and criminal defense attorneys can use what are called peremptory challenge to get rid of potential jurors without giving a reason. But under the U.S. Supreme Court decision, a judge can hold a hearing if either side alleges that race was used in jury selection. Prosecutors who are challenged based on the Batson decision can give a non-racial reason for why they dismissed a potential Black juror.

In Whites case, Assistant District Attorney David Spence was challenged by Whites attorneys. He gave this reason about why he dismissed Sonya Jeter and Caryl Reynolds, both Black women, according to a 1998 opinion by the N.C. Court of Appeals:

Both black females, both 27 years old, old enough. Almost the same age as the defendant. Sonya was personally opposed to the death penalty. Carolyn (sic) Reynolds is living with her mother, doesnt have a stake in the community. Shes single, has an illegitimate child, health care provider. State thinks that people who want to save lives dont want to take lives. And she doesnt think having her purse stolen was a serious crime...And judge, on Miss Jeter, her cousin was convicted by Detective Rowe. Again, shes another health care provider.

This is not the first time Spence or the Forsyth County District Attorneys Office has been accused of racial discrimination in jury selection. Spence, who is a prosecutor in Carteret, Craven and Pamlico counties, has repeatedly declined to comment.

Hambourger represents two other Forsyth County men  Thomas Larry and Russell William Tucker  who are both on death row for murder. Hambourger has filed an appeal for Tucker with the N.C. Supreme Court. Larry has an appeal pending in Forsyth Superior Court.

All three cases not only involve Spence but also involve the alleged use of a training document called Batson Justifications: Articulating Juror Negatives.

Hambourger has alleged in court papers that Forsyth County prosecutors used the training document in Tuckers case and other cases to provide pre-packaged race-neutral reasons for why they got rid of potential Black jurors. She and other attorneys have additionally argued that those non-racial reasons are steeped in racial stereotypes about Black people.

Also cited in Tuckers case is a study done by two Michigan State University law professors who say there is a pattern of racial discrimination in four Forsyth County cases. Spence was involved in all of those cases. In the four cases combined, Spence struck 63 percent of Black jurors but only 20 percent of non-Black jurors, according to court papers.

In Whites case, the N.C. Court of Appeals, noting the first three words out of Spences mouth, found in 1998 that race played a significant role in jury selection in Whites case. Until recently, Whites case was the only one in North Carolina history where a state appellate court made a finding that race played a role in jury selection.

But because Spence also gave several non-racial reasons, the courts finding about race wasnt enough to overturn Whites conviction. That was because at the time, race had to be the sole factor to get an conviction overturned and get a new trial. The legal standard has since changed.

If the court had ruled the same way in 2022, Whites conviction would have been overturned.

A shift

Elizabeth Hambourger, one of Whites attorneys, said she and attorney David Weiss looked at Whites case and asked White if they could represent him. White agreed.

They filed a motion for appropriate relief, a kind of appeal, in Forsyth Superior Court, asking a judge to overturn Whites murder conviction based on racial discrimination in jury selection. Judge Todd Burke of Forsyth Superior Court denied the request, saying that White was procedurally barred from raising the jury issue because he had previously raised it in another appeal.

Hambourger had thought that the Forsyth County District Attorneys Office would agree that Whites case represented an injustice in need of correction. But prosecutors opposed the appeal.

But when the case reached the N.C. Court of Appeals, a shift happened.

To my surprise, the Attorney Generals office agreed that this was an injustice, Hambourger said.

Specifically, Zachary Dunn, an assistant attorney general, wrote that Whites claims should be heard and asked that the case be sent back to Forsyth Superior Court for an evidentiary hearing.

Although the trial court correctly found that the procedural bars ... applied, the State concludes that under the unique factual and procedural circumstances presented, application of the bar in this specific case would result in a fundamental miscarriage of justice, Dunn wrote in court papers.

Dunn told the court of appeals that this was not an easy decision.

The State has considered its position carefully, and does not lightly request remand for a new hearing of an otherwise procedurally barred MAR claim, Dunn said. However, significant uncertainty exists around whether the trial court applied the correct standard in ruling on Petitioners Batson claim.

The N.C. Court of Appeals, however, chose to take up the appeal and both Hambourger and the state Attorney Generals Office were in the process of preparing for oral arguments when the Forsyth County District Attorneys found other issues that paved the way for overturning Whites conviction.

According to a joint motion for appropriate relief, Leonard did two things to violate Whites constitutional rights. One, he failed to pursue a motion to suppress statements White made to Winston-Salem police. Leonard would have been successful in that motion, the motion argues, because at the time White made the statements, Leonard represented White but was not there during the interrogation. That made the statements unconstitutional and inadmissible for trial. But Leonard withdrew the motion to suppress before there could be an evidentiary hearing.

Second, Leonard said in closing statements that White was guilty of armed robbery, an underlying felony for the first-degree murder charge. Those statements indicated to the jury that if White was guilty of the robbery, then he was guilty of the murder. Leonard, the motion argues, made those statements without consulting with White.

In recent correspondence with the Winston-Salem Journal, Leonard, who has been disbarred and was later convicted of embezzlement, has denied the allegations that he was ineffective in his legal representation of White.

As part of a plea deal, White agreed to plead guilty to second-degree murder. His first-degree murder conviction was thrown out and he was given a time-served sentence. That means he was released from custody on May 9.

During the hearing, his mother, Louise McCray, kept thanking God.

I feel release from my heart, she said. I feel good. I have my kids all together ... I feel so good.

Family matters

When White went into prison, his daughter was only 7-months-old.

Shes now 26 and is a mother. She is pregnant with her second child.

White has three children and six grandchildren, including the one his daughter is carrying. He is about to become a great-grandfather. His oldest granddaughter is pregnant with twins, he said.

He is one of four brothers and has five sisters. One of his sisters, however, died as a young child.

When asked why he pleaded guilty to something he said he didnt do, he said he did it for his mother.

His mother has had two heart attacks, one as recent as a couple of months ago.

I didnt want to be locked up in prison with my Mom dying on me, he said.

He told Hambourger that whatever he had to do to get out of prison, he was willing to do it. But, he said, it hurt to plead guilty to second-degree murder.

At the May 9 hearing, Kathryn Baldwin, a daughter of Carl Earl Marshburn, called White by his first name and told him that she wished him nothing but the best. The two families hugged each other after the hearing.

His older brother, Derek White, said he always had faith that White would get out of prison.

Its not our time, its God time, he said.

Derek White said hes just happy to have White home.

He said his brother was always interested in jobs. Thats why when White came to his house on a Thursday, he put him to work.

He come out and he wanted to work and I said, Go to work, Derek White said, laughing. I got plenty of work for him.

Hambourger said she was struck by Whites integrity.

He seems like someone who has tried really hard to make the most out of a hard situation, she said.

Now that hes out, White has plans. He wants to open up an auto shop in Greensboro. He and his brothers have scouted out a spot for the shop.

I always kept faith, he said.

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Construction is underway on a 35-acre solar farm in Rockingham County, and work is expected to start soon on a separate project covering up to 30 acres.

Electricity from the two arrays  with a combined capacity of nearly 12 megawatts, enough to power about 1,600 typical North Carolina homes at one time  will be sold to Duke Energy under long-term power-purchase agreements.

The 35-acre project is on a tract now made up of forest and farmland at 5464 N.C. 135, east of N.C. 220 in Stoneville. Renewable Properties, a San Francisco-based solar company, is leasing the land from owner Willie Moyer Jr., according to documents filed with the N.C. Utilities Commission.

The site is zoned rural agricultural. The Rockingham County Planning Board approved a special use permit for the solar farm in June 2018. Atlanta-area firm United Renewable Energy is overseeing engineering and construction for the 6.56 megawatt facility.

Both companies also are involved in two similarly sized projects underway in Columbus County, west of Wilmington.

Renewable Properties announced Wednesday it had purchased the Stoneville and Columbus County projects from Cypress Creek Renewables of Durham. All three farms are expected to begin delivering energy by fall. The second project is planned south of the intersection of N.C. 87 and Hancock Road in Wentworth.

The 5.5 megawatt array will include about 10,000 panels on 20 to 30 acres of farmland, said project manager Patrick Foley from Durham-based Strata Clean Energy.

The company is leasing the site, which includes a tract owned by Lisa Ashby, and another belonging to Ronald and Melanie Barham, according to tax records. Both are zoned rural agricultural.

The Wentworth Town Council approved a special use permit for the solar farm in September 2018.

Construction is expected to begin in late summer or early fall, Foley said.

John Deem covers climate change and the environment in the Triad and Northwest North Carolina. His work is funded by a grant from the 1Earth Fund and the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation. 336-727-7204

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A shortage of available law-enforcement officers, particularly to investigate routine traffic crashes, has led Winston-Salem city officials to request legislative approval to offer a civilian option.

In response, Sen. Paul Lowe, D-Forsyth, filed Senate Bill 809 on May 27.

The local bill would amend state law to allow Winston-Salem to employ civilian traffic officials to investigate traffic crashes involving only property damages. Those investigators would have the ability to issue citations.

SB809 was placed directly in Senate Rules and Operations committee, which can either be a holding stage for a 2022 session projected to end in early July, or the equivalent of being shelved by Senate Republican leadership.

Lowe said he was asked and Sen. Joyce Krawiec, R-Forsyth, by Police chief Catrina Thompson about submitting SB809 "to help with addressing the obvious shortage of law enforcement officers in the city."

We met with our local delegation from Raleigh and asked them to sponsor that legislation, Lee Garrity, Winston-Salems city manager, said Saturday. We have such a shortage of police officers.

We are looking for alternatives for providing some services where you would not need necessarily a sworn officer.

State law background

According to state statute 20-166.1, if a motor vehicle accident happens in a city or town, motorists are required to call the local police department.

If the accident occurred outside a city or town, the appropriate agency is the State Highway Patrol or the sheriffs office or other qualified rural police of the county where the accident occurred.

SB809 would allow Winston-Salem officials to hire civilian personnel to investigate traffic crashes and issue citations under state statute 20-166.1. There was no mention of pay or reimbursement in either bill.

A report completed by a civilian traffic investigator shall be treated the same as if it were completed by a law enforcement officer. They can authorize the use of a tow vehicle to remove a vehicle that is obstructing a public street or highway.

However, only law enforcement can investigate a crash involving personal injury or a fatality.

The city shall establish the minimum standards for employment as an investigator, with each investigator required to attend a training program designed by the city in consultation with the N.C. Justice Academy.

Upon completion of the training program, each investigator shall spend not less than four weeks of field training with a law enforcement officer who has experience conducting traffic crash investigations, according to the bill.

Civilian traffic investigators would be issued credentials, but no badges or weapons, by the city. They would not be authorized to arrest or issue criminal processes.

They would wear a uniform color substantially different in color and style from a local police officer.

The civilian traffic investigator would be required to produce those credentials when requested by a member of the public involved in or a witness to a crash.

Their vehicle may have emergency equipment and lights installed, but shall not use blue lights in any manner or form. Red and amber lights are permissible.

Police force challenges

On Jan. 19, the Winston-Salem City Council approved relaxing the requirement that officers live at least as close to Winston-Salem as an adjacent county as a potential solution for filling police force vacancies.

That allows officers to live as far away as 60 miles from City Hall: Thats about as far away as Mebane, Concord and Wilkesboro.

The distance limit was chosen with the idea that an officer could get to Winston-Salem in an hour if an emergency came up demanding extra officers on patrol.

City officials say they put too much time and money into the training of a new police officer to lose them without making more of an effort to keep officers on the force.

As of January, the police force had 528 positions for sworn officers.

The number of positions that are open is astronomical, Council Member Robert Clark said before the January vote. I think we are down 90 in police ... thats a lot of darn folks.

City officials expect the number of vacancies to go higher with some expected retirements, and also point out that the separation of public safety employees represents a significant loss of investment by the city, according to a report presented to the council.

There are also associated costs with recruitment, evaluation and a host of negative social and economic impacts for our community resulting from the department being under-resourced, the report states.

Guilfords approach

An almost identical civilian traffic investigator legislation, Senate Bill 912. was filed June 1 by Sens. Michael Garrett and Gladys Robinson, both D-Guilford.

That bill also was placed directly in Senate Rules and Operations.

Lowe said there was conversation about Guilford and Forsyth submitting their bills together, but opted for separate bills to take their own path during the current session.

For the Guilford County delegation, SB912 represents its second attempt for the authorization.

House Bill 303 has the sponsorship support of three of the delegations four Democrats and its two Republicans.

The initial version of HB303 was filed March 16, 2021 with the purpose of authorizing Greensboro to establish a small business enterprise program. SB912 also contains much of the small business enterprise language.

HB303 was amended on April 22, 2021, to add the civilian traffic investigator language. The bill cleared the House on voice vote the same day.

It was sent to the state Senate four days later, where it was placed in Rules and Operations and has not been acted upon.

WGHP/FOX8, the news-gathering partner of the Winston-Salem Journal, reported that Greensboro city officials had made the request to utilize civilian traffic investigators for property damage incidents only.

The Greensboro Police Department told WGHP that it get about 10,000 calls a year for car accidents, of which a civilian traffic investigator would be appropriate to handle between 20% and 50% of the incidents.

Greensboro Mayor Nancy Vaughan told WGHP in July 2021 that by allowing these civilians to respond to these traffic accidents, it would free up about 17,000 man-hours.

We know people tend to have to wait a really long time to get police response, so this will help with our customer service as well.

Other urban cities

The Triad cities are not alone in pursuing legislative approval for civilian traffic investigators.

Five other bills with similar, if not nearly identical, language has been filed during the 2021 and 2022 sessions.

The language in Senate Bill 282, filed March 15, 2021, by Sen. Michael Lee, R-New Hanover, indicates that Wilmington already has a form of civilian traffic investigators.

SB282 would expand those civilian investigators authority to include issuing citations for infractions.

A February 2018 Spectrum News report said Wilmington Police Department began using two civilian traffic investigators in 2008. The report said the two investigators had averaged handling more than 1,000 non-injury accidents every year through at least 2017.

Wilmington police officials were quoted as saying that having the civilian traffic investigators was helping to develop an expertise. ... so these civilian crash investigators really have the ability to look more deeply into these cases and really have the ability to discern what is going on.

During the 2022 session, a bipartisan House Bill 1101 was filed May 19 that includes the Wilmington expansion language from SB282, as well as authorizes Greenville to hire civilian traffic investigators.

HB1101 was placed May 23 in the Local Government committee with a required approval also from Judiciary 2 committee before going to House Rules and Operations.

Democratic-sponsored Senate Bill 903, filed May 26, contains similar language to authorize civilian traffic investigators in Asheville and Raleigh. It was placed directly into Senate Rules and Operations.

Durham has two similar Democratic-sponsored bills in House Bill 1024 and Senate Bill 892, introduced on May 24 and May 26, respectively.

HB1024 was placed on the same committee pathway as HB1101, while SB892 was sent directly to Senate Rules and Operations.

Journal reporters John Hinton and Wesley Young contributed to this story. 336-727-7376 @rcraverWSJ

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Recent changes in the Medicaid expansion landscape have generated new glimmers of hope  for greater access to health care and for the possibility of bipartisan cooperation. Our state needs both to meet the challenges ahead.

Finally, after years of committed opposition, many state Republican leaders have come around to supporting Medicaid expansion, which would provide access to health care for between 450,000 and 650,000 North Carolinians who have none  including around 25,500 in Forsyth County and 35,000 in Guilford.

But lets not get our hopes up too far. Theres still a hurdle ahead.

House Bill 149, approving a form of Medicaid coverage, passed the state Senate on a 44-1 vote on Thursday, the Journals Richard Craver reported. Only one Pamlico County Republican voted against it.

But it has to pass a vote in the House before reaching Gov. Roy Coopers desk.

There, Speaker Tim Moore, a steadfast opponent of Medicaid expansion, has signaled that hes not likely to allow the chamber to take up the bill before the 2022 session ends in early July. He says its too complex and time too limited, according to The Associated Press.

Rep. Donny Lambeth of Forsyth County, the lead Republican proponent of Medicaid expansion in the House, said Thursday that I do not anticipate that the House will take up the Senate bill.

So close, yet so far away.

Medicaid expansion has passed through several configurations since it was first proposed as part of the Affordable Care Act in 2010. Back then, many states declined to adopt it  some simply because it came from President Obamas administration.

Many Republicans worked to overturn Obamacare through legislative or court action. (Though battered, it survives.)

North Carolina sat and watched for a good decade while other states accepted Medicaid expansion and the federal funds that accompanied it  including quite a few red states. None that accepted it have later rescinded their acceptance. It seems to work.

Still, our Republican-led legislature was reluctant.

Senate leader Phil Berger was a strong opponent, citing concerns about the federal government upholding its commitment to pay 90% of the expense for expansion.

But he also opposed options that allowed North Carolina to back out if the federal government backed out, or even rejected federal funds entirely.

So its dramatic  and commendable  that hes now become a supporter. Berger says that accepting federal money to cover more low-income adults now makes fiscal sense for the state.

He joins other Republicans who have been pushing, both publicly and behind the scenes, to find some form of Medicaid expansion that could pass without entangling the state more deeply with the federal government.

The current bill contains a work requirement that the House has pushed for  and that will likely face some pushback from the federal government  but was necessary to get it this far.

The bill also loosens certificate-of-need medical laws that make our state more attractive to for-profit groups  a development that Sens. Joyce Krawiec, R-Forsyth, and Ralph Hise, R-McDowell, support.

This comprehensive strategy will reduce the cost and increase the availability of care across the state while offering a lifeline for our rural hospitals, Hise told the Journal last week.

Despite this support, expansion still has to pass the House. Berger said on Wednesday that there are 120 (House legislators) on the other side of this building that weve got to start work on.

Im going to do my part of that, and I ask that all of you do it as well.

So were closer, much closer, than we were.

In the meantime, bipartisan cooperation is carrying the day on other issues. Rep. Harry Warren, a Rowan County Republican, is sponsoring legislation that would make it illegal for gas-powered vehicles to block EV chargers, on public or private property.

These stations each need to be accessible to consumers in order to facilitate their travel, he told the Journals John Deem last week. The bill received bipartisan support in the House with a 115-4 vote in March 2021.

Facilitating travel facilitates the tourism industry, which we hope will be in full swing this summer.

And despite apprehension from some quarters, the proposal to legalize marijuana for medicinal purposes is making its way through state chambers in a bipartisan fashion, with a 35-10 Senate vote on Thursday.

Bipartisan cooperation is possible and praiseworthy when it improves the lives of North Carolina residents.
"Two Storm Wood" by Philip Gray; W.W. Norton & Company, 352 pages, $28.95.

Many a novel has played out in the dying days or fraught aftermath of World War II, in particular among the rubble and ruins of a vanquished Berlin. In contrast, novelists dealing with World War I tend to steer clear of the end of the conflict, preferring instead to focus on the cusp of it and the crumbling of old orders, or the heat of battle and the horrors of trench warfare.

British writer Philip Gray has done something refreshingly different with his new novel. "Two Storm Wood" contains the odd flashback to military events during World War I. However, the book is set predominantly in 1919, several months after hostilities were brought to a close and the Armistice was signed.

Rather than tell a story of war with a soldier at its center, Gray has crafted a historical thriller in which a gutsy heroine goes searching for answers on the empty battlefields of the Western Front.

Amy Vanneck discovers that her fiance, Captain Edward Haslam of the 7th Manchesters, is missing in action. Rather than sit around idly waiting for news, she travels to northern France to find out what has become of him and, if necessary, give him a proper burial in a marked grave. It is a bold move for a well-bred woman, one who, until now, has been forced to lead a sheltered life.

"A young lady of your station doesn't spend her time cutting up bodies, living or dead," her mother once told her, thwarting her plan to study medicine.

Such an education might have prepared Amy for the carnage she witnesses on her grisly fact-finding mission. First, she meets Capt. James Mackenzie and his band of war-weary, battle-scarred volunteers who are engaged in the grim task of recovering, identifying and laying to rest the many bodies strewn across the ravaged landscape.

Then her search for Edward takes a different turn when 13 mutilated bodies are located beneath a German strongpoint called Two Storm Wood. It is evidence of a brutal war crime. It soon becomes clear, though, that the killing hasn't stopped and that a murderer is still at large.

Gray's novel succeeds on multiple levels. It is thoroughly researched and tightly plotted. Amy's sleuth work  tracking down survivors, sifting testimonies, venturing underground and re-evaluating the man she loves  makes for absorbing reading. There are murky tales of opium addiction and raids on enemy trenches, plus a range of scenes that are thick with atmosphere. Throughout it all is a fiendish twofold mystery: What happened to Edward, and who committed the atrocity?

The novel is a whodunit of sorts. But it is also a thought-provoking drama which routinely strikes a number of serious notes about man's inhumanity and the traumatic effects of conflict. As Edward reminds us, "War poisons everything that it does not destroy."

Malcolm Forbes has written for the Times Literary Supplement, the Economist and the Wall Street Journal. He lives in Edinburgh, Scotland.

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Timor-Leste lauds China's efforts for cooperation with Pacific island countries

Xinhua) 11:00, June 05, 2022

Visiting Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi (L) meets with Xanana Gusmao, Timor-Leste's first president, in Dili, Timor-Leste, June 4, 2022. (Xinhua/Xu Qin)

DILI, June 4 (Xinhua) -- Xanana Gusmao, Timor-Leste's first president, on Saturday expressed appreciation for China's dedicated efforts to promote cooperation with Pacific island countries.

Xanana made the remarks during a meeting with visiting Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

Noting that China is of vital importance to the development of Pacific island countries, Xanana said small and medium-sized countries such as Pacific island countries and Timor-Leste, in the face of similar development tasks, need solidarity to jointly meet challenges, more attention and support from the international community as well as tangible help.

The Chinese foreign minister's visit to South Pacific island countries has sent a positive signal that China stands with developing countries, which brings hope to the small island countries, he said.

Looking forward to deepening friendly cooperation with China, Xanana expressed hope that China will make greater contribution to the development and revitalization of small and medium-sized countries.

Wang said that as a major developing country and a responsible major country, China upholds the diplomatic tradition of treating small and medium-sized countries as equals, and has made efforts to safeguard the interests of developing countries and to help speed up their development and revitalization.

China has never sought the so-called spheres of influence nor taken an interest in geopolitical rivalry, Wang said, adding that some countries misjudge or even smear China, but people of various countries are clear-eyed, with the fruits of cooperation being visible and leaving no room for falsehood.

China has repeatedly made clear its intention of conducting more tripartite and multi-party cooperation to form international synergy in order to help small and medium-sized countries speed up development and revitalization, he said.

Stressing that no country should be forgotten and no region marginalized, Wang said China will continue to stand firmly by developing countries.

Xanana expressed hope that learning from China's successful experience and tapping the huge potential of bilateral cooperation will help Timor-Leste and other small and medium-sized countries achieve self-reliant and diversified development. 

(Web editor: Hongyu, Bianji)
While the barrage of onlookers who annually line O Street to watch cars cruise Lincoln's main drag is a spectacle unique to Memorial Day weekend, area residents say the perilous driving behavior that accompanies it rolls on all summer.

The unsanctioned cruise night May 29 resulted in tragedy for the second time in two decades, when an 18-year-old Omaha man in a Ford Taurus struck a Toyota Corolla turning in front of him at the 52nd Street intersection, killing both of the Toyota's occupants and sending both cars into a crowd of people gathered along the sidewalk, 20 of whom required treatment at local hospitals.

A day later, the city's police chief said the crash "would have happened whether" onlookers were there or not, acknowledging the persistence of dangerous driving on O Street.

"We need to curb that, through education, and also enforcement," Chief Teresa Ewins said during a Memorial Day news conference. "So we have been doing that. We've taken the complaints from the O Street corridor, which many of you know about, and have been very active in trying to stop this behavior."

Area residents, though, say those efforts haven't worked  and the scope of the behavior is not limited to Memorial Day, weekend evenings or even the summer months.

"Every single night, there's something," said Jordyn Vavak, who moved into her house a block away from the crash site a year ago and expected the behavior  racing, cruising, the sounds of tires screeching and engines backfiring  to die down as summer gave way to fall.

Instead, she said, "it's an every night occurrence," one that peaks during Memorial Day weekend but never seems to completely cease.

She's only called the police once, she said, when the humming bass of a blaring car stereo kept her and her children up past midnight. She doesn't like to complain. And she knew O Street was the city's main cruising spot when she moved to the area from near 52nd and Adams streets, she said.

But Vavak didn't know how bad it was until she lived on N Street.

"I was hopeful that Labor Day would be the end," she said. "I've heard that (Memorial Day) starts it off and by Labor Day it's supposed to die down, but it doesn't."

Most residents on Vavak's street don't bother calling in noise complaints, said Ron Zimmer, who has lived across from Vavak's house for 12 years and, most years, is among the onlookers who line O Street every Memorial Day weekend.

"We get noise 24/7," he said, chalking the inconvenience up to life along O Street.

"Whoever does it is gone by the time the police would get here," Zimmer said.

Authorities have spent decades combating the behavior plaguing O Street, which former Lincoln Police Chief Tom Casady said dates back as far as he can remember, estimating the corridor became a cruising hotspot as early as the 1940s.

"It's hard for a lot of people, particularly people my age, to realize that there will be a traffic jam  an honest-to-goodness traffic jam  at 33rd and O in Lincoln, Nebraska, at 2:25 a.m. on a Wednesday," he said.

Casady, who served as police chief from 1994 to 2011 and was the city's public safety director until 2019, said the department has poured immeasurable resources into policing O Street, and late in his tenure as chief began deploying the Nebraska State Patrol's helicopter on holiday weekends to monitor the antics.

He described the annual and nightly enforcement efforts on O Street as a longstanding game of cat and mouse between officers and street racers, tire burners and bad actors. The mice, most often, win.

"Here's the problem: There's only so much you can do with law enforcement," Casady told the Journal Star. "For every person you catch and give a ticket to, there are 35 others who get away with it. Probably more than 35."

The weekend following the deadly crash, O Street was seemingly devoid of street racing Friday night. A significant police presence was in place, with officers patrolling popular meeting spots for cruisers such as the Kohls parking lot at 84th Street or the Barnes & Noble near where last week's fatal crash occurred.

The police department and State Patrol in recent years have sought grant funding to cover overtime costs on summer holiday weekends, increasing patrol efforts along O Street, focusing on the stretch from 17th to 84th. The enforcement detail was in place for Memorial Day weekend, but no officers witnessed the crash at 52nd and O, police said.

Emily Siebenhor, 20, and her passenger, Edith Hermosillo, 22, died in the crash while attempting to complete a turn. In the crash report, police said Kyvell Stark was speeding above the 40 mph limit when he went through a yellow light headed west.

No citations associated with the Memorial Day weekend crash have been reported.

In 2020, the last year in which full data is available, LPD issued 750 citations for speeding, or reckless or careless driving on O Street.

And last summer, in a three-month O Street enforcement campaign that began Memorial Day weekend, the department's officers and State Patrol troopers made contact with 362 drivers, issuing 88 speeding tickets and tracking two criminal violations.

Despite those efforts, there were more crashes on O Street between 17th and 84th last year than any of the previous four years, according to a Journal Star analysis of department data. Police responded to 326 collisions on that section of O Street in 2021, up from 287 the year before, 288 in 2019 and even fewer in 2018 and 2017.

"I've just got to say that, for the most part, those efforts to enhance enforcement, in my estimation, have not solved the problem," Casady said. "Because the risk of getting caught is too small, and the cost of getting caught is still too low."

For the residents of Trailridge Court, a cul-de-sac of duplex-style townhomes adjacent to the Kohl's near 84th and O streets, police enforcement efforts have been futile, as the store's parking lot has often become an arena of sorts for burnouts and "cookies."

Unlike those living near 52nd and N, though, the tight-knit block of mostly retirees in east Lincoln do call the police when drivers burn rubber 20 yards or so from some of their backyards, filling the air with smoke and the nearby street with angry residents.

Diane and Ellis Willadsen have lived next to Kohl's since the winter of 2014, and more often than not, they've had their lives interrupted by the screeching tires across Russwood Boulevard, they said. When they first moved in, the couple naturally slept in their house's master bedroom but soon moved their sleeping quarters downstairs.

In the years since, Diane Willadsen has written letters to the mayor, the former police chief, City Council members and executives at Kohl's and Burger King, she said. She never heard back from the city officials or company executives, she said, and she hasn't stopped hearing the burnouts.

"We don't mind if they gather there," she said, standing in her former master suite that's now a spare bedroom. "We just wish they were quiet."

Seven residents on the block all said that groups as large as 20 to 50 people gather in the parking lot some nights, forming makeshift arenas for burnouts and other stunts, sometimes performed with passengers sitting in the car windows with half their bodies hanging out.

When police do come  often in response to more than one neighbor calling per night  the Willadsens said the cars in the lot scatter in different directions, most of them heading back toward O Street.

Dan and Bonnie Forst, who have lived across the street from the Willadsens' home for nine years, said they've watched other neighbors on the block sell their townhomes "solely because of Kohl's" and the noise problem they said has gotten worse over time.

They built a deck they can't always use at night because of the constant screech of tires. Dan Forst wears earplugs to bed. But they don't call the police as often as they used to, they said, decreasing calls from about twice a week to twice a month.

"It's gonna be just like this thing on O Street," Bonnie Forst said of the chaos outside Kohl's. "Until somebody dies over there, nothing's gonna happen."

Jenna Ebbers contributed to this report. Reach the writer at 402-473-7223 or awegley@journalstar.com. On Twitter @andrewwegley

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OMAHA  Nebraska has made significant progress hardening school buildings against attacks like the one in Uvalde, Texas.

And the states gotten better at identifying potentially dangerous kids ahead of time, officials say.

But as shock and sadness swept the nation over the loss of life at Robb Elementary School, Nebraskans are asking: What more can be done?

A state task force will try to answer that question.

Jolene Palmer, Nebraska school safety and security director, said last month that theres more work to be done, but schools are light years ahead of where they were even four or five years ago.

They are safer than they were, she said. And Ill tell you, they still are the safest place for kids to be. Theres not a doubt in my mind.

School officials in Nebraska have been working for at least a decade on hardening their buildings.

Many of those efforts were prompted by Omaha shootings in 2007 at Von Maur department store and 2011 at Millard South High School. The latter killed an assistant principal.

Many schools have installed buzz-in front doors with man-trap vestibules and security cameras both inside and out. Theyve improved exterior doors, adding key fob openers and alarm systems that trigger when a doors opened. Theyve done away with the 1970s-era open floor plans, remodeling them into stand-alone classrooms with doors that lock from the inside.

Some schools are still working to accomplish the changes.

Voters in Ralston Public Schools last fall approved a bond issue that will pay for vestibule-style secure entrances at the districts middle and elementary schools.

Grand Island Public Schools is spending more than $2.2 million of federal COVID-19 relief money to renovate and add secure entrances to several elementary and middle schools.

The entrances will be the vestibule type, which consists of a secure space with cameras and a locked door where a visitor has to request to enter the building through a video intercom system outside, said Mitchell Roush, spokesman for Grand Island.

Palmer said a large majority of the states schools have their perimeter doors locked all day, with a single school entrance. But she acknowledged that sometimes a teacher will prop open a door to run out to their car or a child will put a rock in it to hold it open for a friend.

In Texas, authorities initially said a teacher was seen on video propping open a rear exterior door to the school, which the teacher exited to retrieve food before lunch. Officials later confirmed that the teacher had closed the door as the 18-year-old shooter was approaching, but that the door didn't lock as expected.

Many parents across Nebraska took to social media immediately after the shooting to express gratitude that district buildings have locked and secure entrances. But some parents also expressed concern about their schools security.

The first time I picked up my son, I was never asked for an ID. They know me now, but what about that first time? said Jessica Marie Howe, an Omaha Public Schools parent. I dont know what we can do as a community, but I cant handle this anxiety I have about sending my son to school. And it gets worse and worse with every tragic event.

Side exits are a problem, said Brad Podany, a security guard at Omaha South High School.

Podany said the high school has about 30 exits in the entire building. Before the pandemic, there was a big push for teachers to guard each exit because students kept leaving voluntarily or opening doors for others to come into the school, he said. But the ongoing staff shortage has complicated that effort.

Its a constant fight, because you have students that will walk past the door, and someone will be outside knocking and they will just open the door to let anybody in, he said.

Palmer said the state has trained secretaries to manage school entrances, so they know what to look for before letting someone in.

Schools have been doing more drills, and changing up the scenarios, she said.

A majority of schools have adopted the I Love U Guys standard response protocol, which gives educators, students and first responders common procedures and language in an emergency.

Locking classroom doors from the inside remains one of the most effective ways to deter an intruder, Palmer said.

Up to this point, there has never been an intruder that breached a locked classroom door, she said.

The safest place for a student is behind a locked classroom door where no one can see them from the hallway, she said.

The idea is if we can get kids out of sight, theres good chances theyre going to survive, she said.

The No. 1 strategy, however, still remains having strong relationships between students and staff, she said. That way, the student has a caring adult in whom to confide.

About half the states school districts have a threat-assessment team, she said.

The pandemic slowed training of those teams, though, as districts dealt with other priorities, she said, but those are going to ramp up again now.

Nebraska is ahead of other states in developing teams and pairing them with the states Safe2Help hotline, Palmer said. The anonymous line lets people talk to Boys Town counselors who can either send immediate help in a life-threatening situation or report the information to the threat-assessment team for further evaluation.

Lincoln Public Schools has established its own Safe to Say reporting system.

Tips are crucial, because 81.9% of the time somebody knows something about whats about to happen, Palmer said.

Since Jan. 7, 2020, the state received about 1,300 Safe2Help reports, she said.

We know for a fact, or were pretty sure, that weve thwarted six shootings, Palmer said.

Nebraska is the only state in the nation that has a report line thats connected to school threat-assessment teams, according to Diana Schmidt, who manages the hotline at Boys Town. That connection ensures the information gets into the hands of those who need it.

So as quickly as a Safe2Help Nebraska crisis counselor gets the information, they can even still be engaging with the tipster and send the information to a district team, she said.

Palmer said authorities still would benefit from having more eyes scanning social media.

And thats not artificial intelligence, that needs to be by a human being, she said.

In almost every incident in the last decade, there were red flags, she said. Though admittedly, Palmer added, theres often little time for authorities to act on those postings.

Nebraska Education Commissioner Matt Blomstedt will be creating a task force to review school safety in Nebraska schools. Sen. Lynne Walz of Fremont, chair of the Legislatures Education Committee, asked him to form the group to review current school safety, security and preparedness practices.

The group, she said, should identify strategies and solutions to ensure Nebraska schools remain safe.

Gov. Pete Ricketts, a Republican, last month said the root cause of mass shootings is mental illness.

The state will, he said, continue to look for ways to strengthen our mental health services and foster effective communication between first responders, educators, medical professionals and law enforcement to better identify and treat mental health issues.

Critics on social media noted that Ricketts vetoed a bill in 2018 that would have used private funds to hire a social worker in each of the states 17 educational service units, with the goal of identifying children in need of behavioral health services so they could be connected to community resources. The $3.6 million program would have been funded for three years with private donations.

At the time, Ricketts said he opposed the bill because it would have obligated the state to run a privately funded grant program that would have duplicated efforts by the Department of Health and Human Services. He also noted that donations could still be given directly to the service units.

Blomstedt said the state definitely can be better in providing mental health services in rural areas.

A portion of the federal COVID-19 relief aid has already been targeted toward mental health concerns that arose from the pandemic.

There are several Nebraska counties that have no providers living in them, according to Blomstedt.

Theres just flatly areas that are just underserved, and shortages everywhere else, he said.

In plans adopted last year, about 20% of Nebraska districts indicated they want to use some of their federal COVID-19 money to address mental health issues for both students and staff.

Many are hiring more licensed mental health practitioners to allow more students to receive therapy, or giving existing staff more hours to help students.

Some state legislators, though, have publicly said the solution needs to involve changes to firearm laws.

Much like on the national level, such efforts in Nebraska have failed to gain approval in recent years. Among the failed efforts was a red-flag bill in 2020. The legislation would have allowed a family member, household member, school superintendent or law enforcement official to petition a judge to have firearms temporarily removed from a person deemed a significant risk. Ricketts opposed the measure. Several other gun-related bills that year brought hundreds of opponents to the state Capitol.

Sen. John Cavanaugh told the Omaha World-Herald a day after the shooting in Texas that all options needed to be on the table.

If our representatives in Congress will not protect children, we may need to act at the state level, he said.

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The year 2022 may be remembered as the year that life started to get back to normal  whatever passes for normal these days. COVID-19, contention and controversy were no match for our community  thanks in large part to the inspiring leadership we saw from women across all sectors of our city and state.

We saw governmental leaders make crucial decisions to secure our safety and prosperity  in city hall, from the floor of the Legislature and in dozens of other places.

We saw business leaders navigate a challenging economy and supply chain issues to keep goods and services provided and people employed.

We saw philanthropic and nonprofit leaders jump in when new crises brought new needs to our most-vulnerable populations.

We saw education leaders inspire the next generation of leaders.

And we saw  some of us firsthand and others from a distance  the dedication and commitment of leaders, formal and informal, within our health care community.

There is, indeed, much inspiring leadership to celebrate.

The year 2022 marks the eighth year for the Inspire Awards, which celebrate women's leadership across several sectors, including business, entrepreneurship, government service, education, philanthropy, health care, nonprofit, as well as the Young Leader's Award, Inspire Scholarship and Woman of the Year.

All nominations will be reviewed by the Inspire Advisory Board, which has the difficult but rewarding task of selecting the 2022 finalists and winners in each category. I am joined on the 2022 Inspire Advisory Board by: Ashley Abramson, Aakriti Agrawal, Connie Edmond, Robin Eschliman, Peter Ferguson, Charlie Foster, Staci Haas, Jen Landis, Meagan Liesveld, James Overcash, Diane Temme Stinton, Natalia Wiita and Sarah Wischhof.

We are excited to return to Pinnacle Bank Arena for this year's awards luncheon Wednesday, Sept. 14.

Please visit InspireLincoln.com to nominate the "inspiring" women in your life. Whether it is a leader in your business organization, a neighbor, friend or associate, please share their story with us so we can recognize them for their contributions to our community. The nomination deadline is July 31.

Thank you to the current Inspire sponsors for making this recognition event possible: Ameritas, Doane University, Purdue Global, Union Bank & Trust, Woodhouse and Woods Aitken. If your organization would like to join them, call 402-473-7442.

There are leaders everywhere among us, and its our privilege to tell their stories and help their lights shine for all.

Ava Thomas is president and publisher of the Lincoln Journal Star and Omaha World-Herald.

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Nebraskans gathered outside the state Capitol on Saturday for a March for Our Lives rally in response to the Texas school shooting that left 19 students and two teachers dead.

March for Our Lives is a youth-led movement dedicated to promoting civic engagement, education and direct action to eliminate the epidemic of gun violence.

Students, teachers, counselors and family members shared the same concern  the lack of gun reform in the country. The nation has seen 237 mass shootings this year, according to data from the Gun Violence Archive.

Several attendees spoke to the crowd about their fear of sending a goodbye text to a parent or receiving one from their children.

One speaker at the rally voiced her excitement for graduation, acknowledging it could potentially not happen.

"The harsh reality students are faced with, is that walking across that stage and receiving a diploma is no longer guaranteed due to the rising gun violence."

One woman urged youth to reach out to the older people in their lives and share their concerns.

She advised them to approach others in coffee shops or other public spaces and share their stories. Their stories of the drills and tactics they learn in schools in case of an active shooter.

Sen. Adam Morfeld of Lincoln took part in the rally, advising Nebraskans to vote for government officials with plans on gun reform.

"You have to go up to the candidates that are coming to your door and going to parades and get an answer on where they're going to stand on red flag laws, background checks and assault weapon bans," Morfeld said.

Reach the writer at 402-473-7228 or emejia@journalstar.com

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Alaska voters are facing an election unlike any theyve seen, with 48 candidates running to succeed the man who held the states only U.S. House seat for 49 years. While some of the candidates in the upcoming special primary have name recognition, many are relative unknowns or political novices. The huge number of candidates and the short timeline for holding the election after the March 18 death of Republican U.S. Rep. Don Young has some voters overwhelmed and scrambling to learn more about their options. This will be the first election under a voter-approved system that ends party primaries, meaning all candidates are on the same one-page ballot.
Nebraskas current tourism slogan landed with a splash in 2018, stirring a strong social media reaction and generating press coverage on several national platforms, from The Washington Post to "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert."

The national award-winning slogan  Nebraska. Honestly, its not for everyone  continues to evoke praise and criticism, with even a few Republican gubernatorial candidates calling for a change. But with a busy summer travel season officially underway, Nebraska's tourism chief says the state doesn't plan to shed the striking slogan any time soon.

John Ricks, executive director of the Nebraska Tourism Commission, considers the campaign a success and cites tourism metrics and state rankings to make his case.

A few Omaha industry professionals, though, are still unsure about the message and say that determining success requires more nuance.

In its research, Ricks said, the commission had found that Nebraska wasnt even on peoples shopping list as a potential vacation destination. It found indifference, apathy  difficult beasts to battle in the advertising world.

You have to do something unexpected to get people's attention, to even get in their consideration set, he said. So, that's what we did.

Barriers to people visiting were deeply entrenched, he said. The commission found people wouldnt even take the time to research Nebraska. There were perceptions that the state was all dusty plains, flat and boring, flyover country.

The campaign fed those assumptions back to people, Ricks said, then told them the real story.

One ad from the tongue-in-cheek campaign shows people floating a stream in livestock tanks with the words Lucky for you, theres nothing to do here. Another shows hikers jumping across a rock formation: Famous for our flat, boring landscape.

The commission moved advertising out of the state, Ricks said, to attract travelers who tend to stay longer, spend more and bring in new money. For in-state travel, the commission is more focused on the states successful Nebraska Passport program.

When this hit, we somehow connected with people, Ricks said. And we're joking now that  were finding that there are a lot more not everyones out there than we thought.

Tourism is a $3.6 billion industry in Nebraska, he said, that generates almost $265 million in state and local taxes.

Analyzing travel data from the last few years can be tricky, with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic upending the industry in 2020. But Ricks offered some statistics that he said indicate success.

Web traffic on the states tourism website, visitNebraska.com, increased from about 371,000 visitors in 2017 to about 918,000 in 2021.

Year-to-year changes in visitor spending had been modest each year between 2012 and 2017 (ranging from a 1.3% decrease to a 3.5% increase). In 2018, spending went up by 5.5%. It increased again, by 4.6%, in 2019 before plummeting 40% in 2020. It recovered, and then some, in 2021, increasing by 68%.

When people started trekking out after locking down early in the pandemic, Ricks said theyd go in their cars to see less-populated places that are outdoorsy, less-traveled and affordable.

Thats just a description of Nebraska, he said.

He expects theres still pent-up demand that drove some of the success in 2021. But not every state got back to where they were in 2019, he said. Nebraska did.

Another metric: Nebraskas ranking on MMGY Globals Portrait of American Travelers improved this spring, placing it among eight states that had a statistically significant increase over 2021.

Chris Davidson, executive vice president of MMGY Travel Intelligence, said the company has published its in-depth report for more than three decades. It surveys roughly 4,500 adults about their travel habits. In 2021, it changed to a quarterly schedule.

One question it asks of active leisure travelers each survey centers around their interest in visiting each of the 50 states and Puerto Rico, along with other specific destinations. That data is used for the rankings Ricks cited.

Nebraska has traditionally been in the bottom five, Davidson said.

Nebraska ranked 45th in spring 2019, tied with Arkansas and Oklahoma, but only 17% of people surveyed were somewhat or extremely interested in visiting. MMGY didnt publish a report in 2020.

In spring 2021, 21% of people were somewhat or extremely interested in visiting Nebraska in the next two years and it ranked 48th. In its most recent report, spring 2022, that number rose to 25% and Nebraska ranked 45th.

Just people who were extremely interested went from 5% in 2019 to 9% in 2022. The percentage of people who werent at all interested was 41% in 2019 and dropped to 36% in 2022. The states average score went from 2.2 on a five-point scale to 2.4  about a 9% improvement.

Davidsons assessment of those numbers was two-fold: It's some encouraging, incremental positive momentum, he said. And, theres a lot of work to be done.

"The reality is, it's still in the bottom five states for interest in visiting," he said.

Jeremy Lipschultz, a social media professor at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, said he guessed the initial attention the slogan received cut both ways  some people were positive about it but some were negative because it sounds exclusive.

Terry Kroeger, president and CEO of Omaha marketing firm Smith Kroeger, said it was unfortunate that the message was contrary to the truth that Nebraskans are very welcoming to newcomers and visitors.

This message says the opposite, he said in an email.

During the recent gubernatorial primary, Republican candidates talked about changing the slogan.

Right now, 'Nebraska is not for everyone' is not the message that I want to send as governor," Sen. Brett Lindstrom said at a debate. "We simply can't. We have too many jobs in the state of Nebraska  60,000-plus unfilled jobs  were not going to be able to grow organically and bring people and retain and recruit talent by sending that message that Nebraska is not for everyone."

Lipschultz thinks most of the attention was short-term, and that a lot of factors could drive the long-term, positive results, including work going on in communities across the state to promote downtown development, tourism and community engagement  such as UNO Social Media Lab projects in towns including Ashland, Ravenna and Valentine.

I'm sure that some of those local efforts would add up in the larger numbers across the state, he said.

Leanne Prewitt, president and chief creative officer at Ervin & Smith in Omaha, drew a distinction between effectiveness and success. If the goal was to have national recognition for the states tagline, it was certainly effective. And it's likely the most memorable tourism slogan the state has ever had, she said.

With tourism numbers up, she questions whether its the campaign or the fact that people were forced to visit flyover states the last two years because they were reluctant to fly. Even if the slogan did cause the boost, she said, shed challenge whether its been a complete success because she thinks it offends Nebraskans.

Even if you get effectiveness in any or all of those three areas, if you shame and piss off the residents of the state or the people that the campaign is about, I think it's not a success, she said.

She thinks it was a mistake that the commission used an out-of-state firm (Colorado-based advertising agency Vladimir Jones) for the campaign and that there couldve been a way to launch it within the state that let people in on the joke, rather than letting them feel mocked.

Back in 2018, Lipschultz told the Omaha World-Herald his initial grade for the tourism tagline would be only a C. Now, he said, he might raise that grade. Hes not quite sure its an A, he said, but its a contributor to this overall momentum.

Ricks is aware that some people have disparaged the slogan. But, he said theres a lot of uniformity across the industry  states touting great restaurants, events, hotels.

You cant differentiate on sameness, he said. The audience for the campaign, he said, is people who like to take time to enjoy and wander, who want to "peel back the onion and learn a little more.

Thats the not everyones. Those are the people, he said. And, as long as it keeps working, well stick to it.

Nebraska currently has its largest campaign of Ricks' tenure: $3 million in media buys. It has added Minneapolis and spot markets in Madison, Wisconsin, and Oklahoma City to the lineup of Denver, Kansas City, Des Moines, Iowa, and Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

New ads that are part of the campaign still confront the barriers travelers encounter when deciding whether to travel here, while broadcasting the states quirkiness.

Wed install mountains, but theyd just block the view one says, over a landscape photo of the sun setting over rolling hills. Another, advertising Ashfall Fossil Beds, says Some of us have been waiting 12 million years for you."

The commission's advertising agency will change June 30, with Florida-based Miles Partnership coming out on top in a request for proposals. The firm also has a Denver location and the commission has worked with it before.

Ricks said the campaign wont change.

The long-term objective was to at least get on peoples shopping lists, Ricks said. We had a big job in terms of changing these perceptions. We had to take people unexpectedly and  not necessarily shock them  but we had to get their attention. The self-deprecating humor was all intentional, and it continues to work.

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Pete Ricketts and David Axelrod engaged in a revealing and wide-ranging discussion while the governor was in Chicago a week ago for an appearance at the University of Chicago and you can listen in on their conversation on the latest Axe Files podcast online.

Axelrod, a guiding figure in President Barack Obama's historic 2008 election as the first Black president, his successful reelection bid in 2012 and as senior adviser to the Democratic president for eight years, and Ricketts, Nebraska's two-term conservative Republican governor.

They talked about topics ranging from the Ricketts family, the family-owned Chicago Cubs, the governor's unsuccessful bid for a 2006 Senate seat, his sister's same-sex marriage, his pro-life views opposing abortion.

And the governor's support of the death penalty as a Catholic despite Pope Francis' encyclical calling upon all Catholics to advocate for the abolition of capital punishment.

And his Second Amendment defense of gun rights in the wake of the latest massacre of 19 elementary school students and two teachers in Texas.

"You can't buy a bazooka or a cannon," Axelrod said. "Why semi-automatic guns?"

All those tough and sometimes uncomfortable questions were raised by Axelrod during their lively interchange.

Lots of interesting Ricketts family history emerged too along with the fact that it was former Sen. Chuck Hagel who suggested that he pursue the Senate seat held by Democratic Sen. Ben Nelson in 2006.

Ricketts did and lost big-time, hated losing, but said he "loved the experience."

The discussion with Axelrod was friendly and respectful and often punctuated by the governor's explosive laughter.

"You're a super-smart guy," Axelrod said at one point. "And a data guy."

When Axelrod raised concerns about the dangerous divisions that led to the insurrection at the nation's Capitol a year and a half ago and the lingering "terror of our politics," the governor said "we'll get through it."

"Use your formidable voice," Axelrod urged Ricketts.

*****

Sen. Ben Sasse called for creation of "a NATO for the Pacific" during his address at the Reagan Library in southern California last week.

And he suggested that the United States should "arm the Taiwanese military to the teeth" in the face of a growing threat by China to reclaim its former island territory.

It's time to "sound the alarm for Taiwan," secure and protect an ally and friend as the United States does in Europe, Sasse said, and assure "free navigation of the seas" in the Pacific Ocean.

"I want us to be America again," Sasse said.

****

Finishing up:

* House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy closed his luncheon appearance in Lincoln in support of GOP congressional nominee Mike Flood to coverage by the news media. Afterward, guests whom I asked said McCarthy said nothing that would have been damaging or uncomfortable in print.

* McCarthy wouldn't do a newspaper interview while he was in Lincoln, only a brief Lincoln TV appearance and a friendly interview with Omaha talk radio.

* Reminder: Flood and Democratic congressional nominee Patty Pansing Brooks will meet for a one-hour, live televised debate next Sunday on KETV, beginning at 6 p.m.

* Ugly reminder of what might lie ahead in Ukraine: When Russian troops invaded Afghanistan in late 1979 and encountered stubborn resistance that kept the war going on and on, Russia did not leave until early 1989, almost a decade later.

* Sen. Tom Brewer of Gordon has signaled his intention to attempt to end selection of committee chairpersons in the nonpartisan Legislature by secret ballot when the 2023 Legislature convenes, requiring each senator to make his or her choice public.

* Impossible to accurately predict what a new Legislature will be like, but signs point to a more conservative  and perhaps more partisan  edition next year with a huge turnover and the departure of a number of moderate, independent and essentially non-partisan Republicans, most of whom were legislative leaders.

* Nebraska's new motor vehicle license plate design is artistic and attractive, but the Capitol mosaic artwork that adorns the new plates appears to be barely perceptible, at least in the modeling unveiled at a gubernatorial news conference.

* "And what is so rare as a day in June? Then, if ever, come perfect days."  James Russell Lowell.

Reach the writer at 402-473-7248 or dwalton@journalstar.com. On Twitter @LJSdon

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Nebraskas territorial legislature should have been busily discussing and passing legislation in 1857-58. A territorial printer needed to be appointed, there was no criminal code in existence, a homestead bill was pending and the question of moving the capital was being considered.

Douglas, just south of todays State Penitentiary in Lincoln, was even platted and presented as a potential capital location, only to be vetoed by Gov. Mark W. Izard, who then resigned. With both houses of the legislature antagonistically divided, a simmering pot was poised to boil over.

Nebraskas fourth territorial legislatures 40-day session opened Dec. 9, 1857. Although Omaha legislators were already growing weary of capital removal bills, on Jan. 6, Joshua G. Abbe of Otoe County introduced such a bill in the House. Many in the chamber saw potential passage as a possible, though seemingly unrealistic, personal physical threat.

On Jan. 7, Speaker of the Council James H. Decker, a leader of the anti-Omaha faction, had just returned from an out-of-town trip. As Decker attempted to regain the chair from Temporary Speaker Dr. W.R. Thrall, who was using the book Swans Revised Statutes as a gavel, was joined by Omaha members Michael Murphy, Joseph Paddock and a lobbyist who seized Decker, who was thence thrown on the floor. Andrew Hanscom then pushed Decker under a table (and) a free-for-all fracas followed. One observer even added knives were drawn. Members fled the chamber, leaving only a minority, which quickly adjourned the session.

On Jan. 8, the House passed a resolution to adjourn the session and reconvene in Florence, six miles to the north, the following morning. A similar resolution was then passed in the upper house on a vote of 8-5. With the majority of both houses missing from the capital, President George Miller of Omaha said the majority actions would be invalidated unless both the House and the governor agreed to the move.

The minority, still at Omaha, elected Andrew Poppleton as Speaker Pro Tem and adjourned, though both actions were undoubtedly invalid without a quorum.

At Florence, both houses then demanded that Acting Gov. Thomas B. Cuming, Governor Izard having resigned, send all documents for discussion and possible action to their attention. Pro-Omaha Cuming promptly refused. On Jan. 11, recently appointed Gov. Wm. Richardson arrived and reiterated Cumings refusal, also adding his refusal to recognize the Florence session, as it was not held at the capital as required by law and urged everyone to return to Omaha and resume the legislatures work.

In its July 23, 1857, edition, the Pacific City Enterprise noted a railroad had been organized to build from Plattsmouth to Cedar Bluffs near Neapolis in what was then Calhoun County and now Saunders County. Since it was assumed that Omaha would never be the center of population in Nebraska, Neapolis, on the south side of the Platte River and 60 miles from the Missouri River, would be a natural spot. It even noted a 5- or 6-acre mound, about 40 feet above the valley, which would make an ideal capitol site. The newspaper added houses were being erected ... settlers are flocking rapidly ... (and) a steam sawmill is in successful operation. ... Neapolis will be called the Queen City of Nebraska.

The Florence session passed a so-called Capital Act and appointed four commissioners to choose a specific site at Neapolis, a Greek word that translates as new city, on Ely Palmers quarter section, about 2 miles northeast of the Cedar Bluffs post office or 9 miles southwest of Fremont.

On Jan. 13, the governor did not formally accept anything, but reportedly found bills passed at Florence left in my room yesterday. He neither vetoed nor approved them and respectfully returned them. In Florence, a majority of both houses existed until the 40-day session quietly expired on Jan. 16, with literally nothing having been accomplished.

On Jan. 21, the pro-capital removal Bellevue Gazette editorialized that an effort was made by an unscrupulous minority, aided by a mob, to clog the wheels of legislation ... if their labor is lost and the territory remains without laws ... they are not responsible for the consequences.

A subsequent investigative committee found the majoritys actions unwarranted and revolutionary ... inaugurated anarchy ... destroyed the public peace ... in the House, action was precipitated by the design or folly of the Speaker (with) a premeditated design ... to obtain the possession of the Chair by force ... with a predetermined plan to break up and disorganize the legislature."

In the end, because no records were kept, although they supposedly passed a criminal code, homestead exemption and relocated the capital, in fact, however, absolutely nothing was accomplished. Neapolis did briefly exist and in the 1850s had a few log buildings and sawmill.

In 1932, Fremont Boy Scout Troop #104 erected the hand-hammered metal plaque, as shown above, on a small concrete post, in a ditch, near later Camp Eagle and extant Camp Cedar(s), but even that last visible vestige was destroyed by vandals, though today locals still refer to the site as Capital Hill.

Historian Jim McKee, who still writes with a fountain pen, invites comments or questions. Write to him in care of the Journal Star or at jim@leebooksellers.com.

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1872: The City Council and county commissioners discussed grading O Street and the possibility of continuing it as an access road to the Salt Creek bottom. Work on a bathhouse at the salt well was progressing, and it was announced that Lincoln soon would have a fine watering place.

Two buffalo were reported to have been seen grazing about five miles southeast of Lincoln.

1882: A telephone line was finished between Omaha and Nebraska City, with continuous service available.

The Lincoln City Council told property owners they must number their houses to make the mail-delivery system a success.

1892: An occasional bank failure in Nebraska served as warning of an approaching economic storm.

1902: Principal H.J. Davenport of the Lincoln schools resigned. Lincoln High School students held a mass meeting to protest his departure.

1912: A government Weather Bureau kiosk arrived from Baltimore and soon took its place on Post Office Square.

1922: Lincoln residents felt much closer to Washington than usual. In the national capital the marble Lincoln Memorial was dedicated, honoring Abraham Lincoln, for whom the Nebraska capital was named.

1932: The executive committee of the Nebraska American Legion condemned as "un-American and revolutionary" the bonus march on Washington on behalf of jobless World War I veterans.

1942: War priorities hit Lincoln building operations hard. The May record of permits issued was a little more than $28,000, compared with $814,000 a year earlier.

1952: U.S. Sen. and Mrs. Fred Seaton returned from Munich, Germany, where they had adopted two war refugees, Alfred, 4, and Monica, 6.

1962: Lincoln ranked fifth among Frontier Airline's top traffic-producing cities.

1972: District Judge (and former Lincoln Mayor) Bartlett E. "Pat" Boyles, 64, died while vacationing in Canada.

1982: After more than 15 years, the four interior courtyards at the Capitol were reopened to the public at a dedication ceremony sponsored by the Capitol's 50th anniversary committee. The remodeled Capitol cafeteria also was dedicated.

1992: Horace the Hippo was introduced as the city's new water conservation mascot. The capacity of the city's water treatment plant in Ashland was 72 million gallons and Mayor Mike Johanns wanted to make sure Lincoln didn't exceed that capacity.

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The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated homelessness in Wisconsin, with the state now facing a deficit of more than 120,000 affordable homes and over 4,500 people experiencing homelessness on any given night, according to the most recent data from the National Low Income Housing Coalition.

However, Milwaukee County has the nations lowest per-capita homeless population, the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development announced in March. That is thanks to a set of Housing First policies the city has implemented to permanently house as many people as possible before establishing employment, or attending to substance use or mental health issues, said James Mathy, the administrator for the Milwaukee County Housing Division.

Those policies are now being slowly adopted throughout Wisconsin, as Democratic Gov. Tony Evers, running for reelection this year, announced in March about $210 million in grants to combat homelessness in the state. The Neighborhood Investment Fund comes from the huge sums the state received from the Democrats nearly $2 trillion federal stimulus from 2021 called the American Rescue Plan. The fund is intended to help cities address a variety of issues, with the majority of grants creating affordable housing and supporting those struggling with homelessness, according to the state.

The city and county of Milwaukee are set to receive a total of $25 million from the fund, according to the state. Milwaukee County will receive two grants totaling just over $10 million. More than $7 million will go toward building 120 single-family homes for people of color, and will focus on affordable homeownership, Mathy said.

Another $3 million will go toward acquiring and rehabbing a building on the city's south side that contains a community food pantry and a transitional housing program according to Mathy. The city of Milwaukee is set to receive $15 million for similar projects.

Other cities getting big grants from the Neighborhood Investment Fund for housing and homelessness include Racine, which will receive $15 million; and Juneau, population about 2,600, will get $10 million in funds. The Ho-Chunk Nation will receive nearly $12 million for that same problem in Black River Falls. Viroqua, population about 4,500, will get $6 million.

Quote As defined by the Racine Dominicans: "Rapid Rehousing takes the 'Housing First' approach to ending a persons homelessness. Tenant based rental assistance is offered without precondition to people who are literally homeless  in a shelter or living in a place not meant for human habitation  with the objective of moving out of homelessness and into an apartment as soon as possible. Program participants then work on other issues from the safety, security, and peace of their new home. HOPES Center, 521 Sixth St., provides case management which assists them in achieving housing stability through mental health services, primary health care, substance abuse treatment, and income through employment or benefits. The ultimate goal is for the rapid rehousing participant to be able to take over payment of the unit after completing the rapid rehousing program and remain permanently housed."

The cities of Ashwaubenon, Eau Claire, Fond Du Lac, Lancaster, Menomonie, Oshkosh and Wausau will all receive between $2 million and $5 million, approximately.

That funding will be crucial, as Wisconsins homeless population is growing in every area of the state, said Michael Basford, the director of the Wisconsin Interagency Council on Homelessness, a state agency with the goal of ending homelessness.

It really is a universal issue throughout the state  everywhere that I've been able to go see it in person, or virtually over the last nearly three years, everybody tells me the same thing, Basford said. Access to units that are affordable, particularly to people who are low income, is the number one barrier for people who are experiencing homelessness.

Housing prices across the state have doubled since 2012, and have increased nearly $100,000 on average over the last 5 years, according to the Wisconsin Realtors Association.

Its hard to pinpoint the exact reason housing prices are rising all over the state, Basford said, but in Madison, costs could be driven by the growth in the data sector. On the eastern and western sides of the state, he speculated, the Milwaukee and Twin Cities economies could be pushing people further away from their work.

A huge jump in material prices has also supercharged the housing market. Prices for building materials have risen 33% since the start of the pandemic, according to the National Association of Home Builders.

In the Milwaukee metro area, a renter would need to make about $19 per hour to afford the rent and utilities on a fair market-priced, two-bedroom apartment on a 40-hour workweek, according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, a nonprofit aimed at decreasing homelessness for low-income people. In Madison, that number is over $23 per hour. The states minimum wage is $7.25 per hour.

If I was the Tsar of Wisconsin and I could make budgetary decisions, I would create a program where I would just cut checks out of whatever is available in the budget for (affordable housing)," Basford said. But that politically is not a viable option.

Current remedies for creating affordable housing include the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit, which awards subsidies to private companies to build affordable housing.

Relying on LIHTC is something that is done most often, because that's something that's available right now, Basford said.

More than 900 affordable units will be built around the state thanks to the Neighborhood Investment Grant, Basford said, but thats far from the 120,000 units he says Wisconsin needs.

That number doesnt mean that you have 120,000 homeless every night, but that does mean thousands of households are one broken arm or COVID diagnosis away from not being able to pay the bills, Basford said, referring to emergencies that prevent people from working. There is still going to be a very substantial need for more affordable housing, and that is going to be a very heavy lift.

Inspiration from Texas Many of the policies and practices Milwaukee has implemented were initially successful in Houston, a city HUD named a priority community in 2012. An audit of the city's homeless resources found the system disjointed, with duplicative services and people passed around instead of directed toward housing, according to Ana Rausch, the Vice President of Program Operations at the Coalition for the Homeless of Houston/Harris County. Like Milwaukee three years later, the various organizations in Houston first met to agree on a strategy to address homelessness. Leaders decided to pursue Housing First policies that prioritized moving people to permanent housing as fast as possible. The city also set up a facility to recruit and retain landlords and properties for the program. The latest homeless count found just over 3,000 homeless people in Houston  a third of what it had been in 2011. It may be tempting to want to respond to the political pressure, or the community pressure of getting rid of that visible homelessness right away, but it's just a band-aid, Rausch said. It's so expensive to temporarily house people. Just doing it right may take a little bit longer, but in the end, you permanently solved the situation instead of pushing them around temporary shelters. While there have been pitfalls to Houstons system  including dirty apartments, apathetic landlords and potentially long waits to be housed  it boasts a 90% success rate in either keeping people housed after two years or a positive transition to more permanent housing, Rausch said. We put the majority of our funding into permanent housing because we believe that the only way to permanently end someone's homelessness is to provide them with housing and supportive services, period, Rausch said.

Milwaukees "Housing First" program

"Housing First" policies were first adopted in Milwaukee in 2015 when a group of care partners, city leaders and politicians sat down to create a system that HUD says helped the city succeed in achieving the lowest per-capita homeless population in America.

A lot of large institutions bought into this plan, Mathy said. Having all of our focus on permanently ending cycles of homelessness, instead of just being reactive, is what made these numbers possible.

On top of using tax credits to create affordable homes, caseworkers in downtown Milwaukee conduct street outreach five days a week, where they work with unsheltered people to put them directly into permanent housing.

Data from the Milwaukee County Housing Division shows a 92% reduction in the homeless population on the street since "Housing First" policies were adopted in 2015, and a 53% reduction in the homeless population that is temporarily sheltered.

The Milwaukee County District Attorney's office, the Milwaukee Police Department and the Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office are all partners with the Housing Division  which can be the difference between a homeless person getting forcibly removed from a tent city or getting permanent housing, Mathy said.

We want to make sure that people aren't just kicked out of encampments, Mathy said. The idea of "Housing First" is to decriminalize homelessness, and to make sure people are put in permanent housing.

Mathy says 80% of the homeless households served in Milwaukee County are black. This demographic in Milwaukee has the highest rate of poverty in any demographic group, according to the U.S. Census.

Making major reductions in homelessness is absolutely possible, if everybody's working together and following the same philosophy, Mathy said. Oftentimes it doesn't take unbelievably large financial investments. A lot is just coordination, and building a good public-private partnership.

The Badger Project is a nonpartisan, citizen-supported journalism nonprofit in Wisconsin. This article first appeared on The Badger Project and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.
RACINE  Kelly Wittes favorite magazine while attending Horlick High School was Teen Vogue.

It showed her the glamorous side of fashion.

Youd never see anyone around here wearing clothes like in the magazine, the Caledonia native said. You dont see people in Horlick walking down the halls in the strangest outfits. If I had worn something like that, people wouldve thought I was really weird.

About a decade later, she was featured in Teen Vogue. But not for her fashion  for her artwork. The piece featured was entitled Our Bodies Our Choice and depicts a womans uterus. It was on display at the Angry Women Exhibit in a New York gallery. Having an image of that work published in the magazine made things full circle for her, she said.

The 2010 graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Parkside works primarily with painting and printmaking techniques. She creates bold and vividly colored pieces influenced by pop art, surrealism and retro imagery. Witte was recently selected as the Racine Art Museum 2022 Emerging Artist.

Four $3,000 Artist Fellowships and one $1,500 Emerging Artist Award are presented, which may be used for any expenses that will assist in the development of new work and advance their artistic careers, i.e. equipment and supply purchases, studio rental or travel. The recipients were selected based on quality of artwork submitted.

All five recipients will be featured in solo exhibitions presented at RAMs Wustum Museum of Fine Arts. A full-color exhibition catalogue will be printed to accompany the RAM Artist Fellowship and Emerging Artist Exhibition 2023, Aug. 30-Dec. 2, 2023.

RAM Curator of Exhibitions Lena Vigna said the jurors recognized and responded to Wittes singular aesthetic, appreciating her dynamic, arresting use of color and commitment to exploring issues related to femininity and representation.

Her clarity of vision was remarked upon  important within her recognition as an Emerging Artist winner, Vigna said in a statement.

Very vintage

Witte, 33, grew up in the 1990s in a 1963 ranch-style home in Caledonia that was furnished with its original fixtures and decor.

Instead of watching Saturday morning cartoons as a child, she enjoyed classic sitcoms. I Love Lucy. Leave it to Beaver. Father Knows Best. The Dick Van Dyke Show.

She enjoyed rummaging through her mothers collection of vinyl records and admiring the album cover art, and developed a nostalgia for a pop culture she was never able to experience first-hand.

Through her artwork, shes able to highlight her love of all things vintage.

Her art series Decade Daydreaming is a celebration of her interest in vintage clothing, hairstyles, decor and sitcoms.

I feel like Im old school, she said.

She strives to create over-the-top and whimsically feminine mixed media works that are visually dense with a nostalgic flair.

She pairs decorative patterns with sweet hues to create kitschy compositions, she said. She uses a combination of linocut prints, silkscreen prints, watercolor paint and transparent acrylic inks to depict women adorned in styles of yesteryear.

As she continues to develop her Decade Daydreaming series, she intends to further refine her printmaking skills and explore the use of flamboyant embellishments such as glitter, faux pearls and rhinestones to construct multi-layer collages.

Current work

I was very excited, Witte said of the moment she found out she was chosen as an Emerging Artist, the first time shes been picked for any kind of fellowship. I read it a few times, thinking: Wow, did this really happen?

Some of the past winners were Wittes high school and college instructors.

To be right up there with my mentors means a lot, Witte said.

In the fellowship, as Emerging Artist, she plans on keeping up with her Decade Daydream series, exploring more vintage fashion and hairstyles and creating more mixed media.

She plans to take a maximalist approach, making for very bright and whimsical pieces. Shes still in the planning process.

Witte creates handmade broaches and sells them at ArtWorks Kenosha, 4513 Sheridan Road.

She plans to continue making these; she swaps out items quarterly. Theyre hand beaded and embellished, which makes for a labor-intensive project, but she said she enjoys it immensely.

Shes also always pursuing other exhibition opportunities and is currently doing a collaborative sponsorship with a startup art supply company on Instagram.

Starting in art

Witte said art is something she always enjoyed, ever since she was small. Her mother encouraged her and bought her art supplies to nurture her creativity.

I liked making messes, she said. I enjoyed the hands-on aspect of printmaking and painting murals, immersing myself and being messy. I just love the idea of making a mess and seeing what happens.

Besides reading fashion magazines, it was at Horlick that Witte was able to sign up for as many art classes as she could take, including AP (advanced placement) art classes. She graduated from Horlick in 2006.

That really got me going, and looking at pursuing art in college, Witte said. I could start to see art was a career path that you can take.

Witte said she did well in academic classes, but art was always the clear way to go.

Her inspiration for her artwork comes from researching former fashions, sometimes looking through library books and sometimes going through old family photos.

Shes pulled hairstyles, home decor, starburst shapes, leopard print, polka dots and color swatches and incorporated them into her work.

Its really interesting to see how fashion has evolved, Witte said. Whats old is new again. Its interesting to see how things cycle.

A busy artist

Shes participated in the Downtown Racine Corporations public art event every year since 2004.

I feel like Ive grown up with it, I was still a 15 year old kid when I started, Witte said. I was just a high school kid who loved art, I was really honored.

During the last five years or so, shes completed five murals in Kenosha, one of them being on the Kenosha North Pier Lighthouse.

Besides southeastern Wisconsin, shes also exhibited nationally in Chicago, New York City, Indianapolis, Dallas, Los Angeles, Washington D.C. and Oakland. Internationally, shes exhibited in Dubai, United Arab Emirates; Venlo, The Netherlands; Kista, Sweden; Wroclaw, Poland and Castlemaine, Australia.

My artwork has definitely traveled more than I have, she said, laughing.

Besides Teen Vogue, her artwork has been featured in publications such as Huffington Post and The Columbia Chronicle.

Ive worked really hard, she said. I feel very fortunate that I can keep pursuing what I love doing.(tncms-asset)fabc5aa3-500c-53f3-979c-05907a76d763[5](/tncms-asset)

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About 50 abortion rights supporters stood on the bridge over the Wisconsin River into Sauk City on a sunny Saturday morning in mid-May.

They held signs reading CHOICE and PROTECT ROE v. WADE and cheered when passing cars honked in support.

Jennie Klecker brought three generations of her family out on the bridge for the demonstration: her mother and her daughter and niece, in the sixth and ninth grades.

Im here for them, she says, gesturing to the girls. They shouldnt be forced to be mothers. These are human rights.

A local group, Indivisible Sauk Prairie, organized the bridge demonstration. Across the state and country that Saturday, thousands gathered to protest in anticipation of the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization that is expected to overturn the 49-year-old precedent guaranteeing a constitutional right to an abortion.

In Sauk City, a lone counter-protester wore a MAGA hat, yelled vulgarities and marched through the crowd. A woman stood across the street holding a large sign declaring: 70 PERCENT: ROE V WADE.

Her sign reflected the sentiment from a recent Marquette University Law School poll, which found 69% of people nationwide oppose overturning the landmark decision. A Marquette poll from last year found 61% of Wisconsin residents support the right to an abortion in all or most cases.

While the Supreme Courts final decision seems nearly certain to reverse federal protections for abortion rights, its impact on Wisconsin is far from clear. Observers agree that the state will see a legal battle over whether Wisconsin reverts back to a law from 1849  a near-total ban on abortion passed 71 years before women had the right to vote.

That law makes it a Class H felony for anyone other than the mother to intentionally (destroy) the life of an unborn child. The maximum penalty is six years in prison and a $10,000 fine. The law provides an apparent exception for medically necessary abortions  referred to by an antiquated term therapeutic abortion  to save the life of the mother.

But what would constitute a legally allowable abortion? That is a daunting question for physicians across Wisconsin  not just those who specialize in providing abortion care  as they could soon face criminal prosecution for providing what they believe is a life-saving procedure.

That uncertainty alone is going to likely severely limit, if not completely cut off, all abortion access in Wisconsin, says Dr. Abigail Cutler, an obstetrician and gynecologist who practices in Wisconsin.

The Wisconsin Hospital Association did not respond to email and phone messages asking how overturning Roe would affect patients ability to get medically necessary abortions at hospitals.

In an interview, Attorney General Josh Kaul says the 173-year-old abortion ban may be unenforceable under a legal doctrine called desuetude, which holds that a long-unenforced law essentially becomes invalid. Kaul has vowed not to enforce that draconian law if Roe falls.

Wisconsin has multiple abortion laws passed after the 1973 Roe decision that acknowledged federal abortion rights, including several passed under former Republican Gov. Scott Walker. One could make an argument, Kaul says, that these statutes  which are currently enforced, as opposed to the 19th-century ban  could imply that the right to an abortion remains intact in Wisconsin.

Kaul expects legal challenges seeking clarity on the status of abortion access in Wisconsin.

We are in a process right now of evaluating what the different legal options are in the state, Kaul says. But who files those or what the exact arguments raised are, I cant say.

Wisconsin law hostile to abortion rights

Wisconsins abortion laws are already considered restrictive.

Over the previous decade, under Walker, Wisconsins GOP majority in the Legislature passed a series of restrictions that turned the states landscape from leans hostile to hostile to abortion rights, according to the Guttmacher Institute, which researches sexual and reproductive health and rights.

Over the past 45 years, the number of Wisconsin abortions has declined significantly. In 1976, the state Department of Health Services reported 14,243 induced abortions, rising to a high of 21,754 in 1980. By 2020, that number had dropped to 6,430.

University of Wisconsin-Madisons Collaborative for Reproductive Equity (CORE) says Wisconsin already restricts many aspects of abortion, including banning government-funded insurance coverage, limiting availability through family planning programs, requiring mandatory counseling, ultrasounds and waiting periods for medication and surgical abortions and gestational limits, among other restrictions.

For example, Wisconsin law only allows licensed physicians to perform abortions, even though other medical professionals including nurse practitioners, certified nurse-midwives and physician assistants can and do provide safe abortions in other states.

In Wisconsin, doctors must provide counseling and obtain spoken consent, both in person, at least 24 hours before administering care. In practice, a limited number of physicians can mean much longer waits between appointments  which can put patients beyond the 20-week gestational limit.

None of these restrictions are evidence-based, says CORE director Jenny Higgins.Theres no medical reason for any of these restrictions. So just on that alone, these restrictions should be seen as onerous.

Early law less restrictive

When originally passed in 1849, Wisconsins abortion ban was markedly less restrictive. According to the Legislative Reference Bureau, it classified the willful killing of an unborn quick child as first-degree manslaughter.

A quick child referred to a fetus that had noticeably moved in the womb. Prior to reliable testing, this was often the first indication of pregnancy. Quickening typically occurs near the midpoint of gestation, according to James Mohr, who wrote a 1978 book on the history of abortion in the United States.

Wisconsins original law, then, prohibited abortion only after an observable change that occurred about halfway through pregnancy, and sometimes as late as 25 weeks.

This statute became more restrictive in the following decade. By 1858, lawmakers had removed the reference to quickening, prohibiting abortion of an unborn child  language that remains in the statute today.

In addition to undergoing multiple revisions over the generations, Wisconsins pre-Roe abortion law has also faced legal challenges that complicate its interpretation and enforceability.

In 1970, just three years prior to Roe v. Wade, a panel of federal judges in the Eastern District of Wisconsin decided a case called Babbitz v. McCann. A physician sought an injunction against the Milwaukee County District Attorney E. Michael McCann, arguing that the abortion statute was unconstitutional.

The court agreed, holding that under the Ninth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, a woman has the basic right  to decide whether she should carry or reject an embryo which has not yet quickened.

According to UW associate law professor Miriam Seifter, the judges found a right to privacy based on precedents dating back to the late 19th century. The opinion concludes that the mothers interests are superior to that of an unquickened embryo, regardless of whether that embryo is a mere protoplasm, in the view of the physician, or a human being, in the view of the Wisconsin statute.

But the impact of that decision is complicated, Seifter says. As a federal district court decision, its not formally binding. Instead, it serves as persuasive authority  and may seem less persuasive depending on the Supreme Courts eventual ruling in Dobbs. In other words, although the judges in 1970 found a federal constitutional right to abortion in Wisconsin, courts today are not required to follow that ruling.

Theres a tangled series of abortion-related laws in Wisconsin, Seifter added. Most likely some court will need to figure out whether those statutes are enforceable or compatible (and) how to read them together.

And any challenge filed in state court would likely end up before the Wisconsin Supreme Court, currently controlled by a 4-3 conservative majority. Justice Brian Hagedorn, sometimes deemed a swing voter, was endorsed by two Wisconsin anti-abortion groups.

Little access to abortion in Wisconsin

Today, Wisconsin has only four clinics providing elective abortion procedures: two in Milwaukee, one in Madison and one in Sheboygan. Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin operates three of the four clinics, and Affiliated Medical Services operates one of the Milwaukee locations.

Sheboygans Planned Parenthood clinic only provides medication abortion, which is induced through pills, and Wisconsin has some of the strictest medication abortion laws in the country.The UW-Madisons CORE notes that nearly 70% of Wisconsin women between the ages of 15 and 44 live in a county that lacks an abortion care clinic. That statistic does not account for transgender men and non-binary people who also could become pregnant.

Higgins says cost is a key barrier to accessing abortions. Federal law prohibits federal Medicaid funding for abortions. Wisconsin law prohibits state, local or federal funding for programs that provide, promote, or encourage abortion services or make abortion referrals, according to CORE.

Wisconsins Medicaid and BadgerCare health insurance programs do not cover elective abortions except when deemed medically necessary or following sexual assault or incest that has been reported to law enforcement.

Research shows people often seek abortions because they cannot afford to raise a child, but the cost of abortion often remains out of reach, Research also shows that women who are denied wanted abortions suffer physically, psychologically and financially for years afterward  conditions their children suffer too.

Post-Roe agenda unclear

Meanwhile, Wisconsins Republican legislative leadership remains mum on any post-Roe plans.

Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, R-Rochester, and Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu, R-Oostburg  as well as ardent abortion opponent Sen. Andre Jacque, R-De Pere  did not respond to Wisconsin Watchs emailed questions about their plans. Vos staff shared a prepared statement that read, in part, Ive always been proudly pro-life. If this is the final ruling, it will empower states to make their own decisions.

Wisconsin Democrats have tried and failed to shore up abortion rights, and at this point, any attempts to pass new legislation would be largely symbolic.

Our ability to actually present and pass legislation that would attain what we hope, which is unimpeded access to reproductive health care, will probably not be successful, says Senate Minority Leader Janet Bewley, D-Mason, who is not running for re-election.

Two prominent anti-abortion groups in Wisconsin celebrated the possible end to Roe, but they have separate visions for the future.

Wisconsin Right to Life, a non-religious organization, supports exceptions that allow for medically necessary abortions, legislative director Gracie Skogman says. However, the group opposes an exception for rape or incest  which also is not in the 1849 law.

Our position has always been to support women who are in their utmost need, and when we think about the heartbreaking situation of rape, that is the utmost violence against women, she says. But an abortion only continues that cycle of violence.

Matt Sande, legislative director for Pro-Life Wisconsin, argues that removing a medical exception will not prevent people from obtaining life-saving treatment for ectopic pregnancies  which involves removing a non-viable embryo from the fallopian tubes  because legally such operations are not considered abortions.

Both Pro-Life Wisconsin and Wisconsin Right to Life say theyre not seeking to criminalize people for having abortions. Wisconsin law did criminalize women who sought an abortion starting in 1858  later rendered unenforceable by court decisions but such a penalty remained on the books until 2012.

Pro-Life Wisconsin also opposes contraception, claiming on its website that birth control leads to the attitudes and even moral character that are likely to lead to abortion. But Sande says the group has no plans to push for a legislative ban on contraception.

Who would enforce the law?

In the interim, while court battlelines form, access to abortions will certainly diminish.

Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin will pause providing abortions until theres clarification from the court of competent jurisdiction, declaring that (1849) law is not enforceable, says Mike Murray, vice president of governmental relations for Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin, the largest provider of elective abortion care.

Were physicians to continue providing abortions in any of the four clinics  or in any other setting  enforcement of laws prohibiting abortion would lie with prosecutors.

When it comes to holding people accountable, it would be a question of, are investigative agencies going to investigate? Kaul says.

So long as the Democrat remains attorney general, the Wisconsin Department of Justice will not investigate abortions, he says. But Kaul is facing re-election in November. Two of his Republican challengers, Fond du Lac County District Attorney Eric Toney and former lawmaker Adam Jarchow, have both tweeted support for a decision overturning Roe. Toney also criticized Kauls refusal to enforce the old law. He declined to provide additional comment on the record, and Jarchow did not respond to emails requesting comment.

Local prosecutors in Dane, Milwaukee and Sheboygan counties  which currently have abortion clinics  could choose to pursue charges against providers if abortions continued.

None of these district attorneys  Democrats Ismael Ozanne and John Chisholm and Republican Joel Urmanski  returned multiple emails and phone calls asking if they would prosecute physicians providing abortions if Roe is overturned. However, in 2020, Chisholm signed an open letter announcing he would not prosecute anti-abortion laws.

All three district attorneys terms end in 2025. The Wisconsin statute of limitations for most felony charges is six years, meaning their potential successors could pursue charges targeting physicians who provided abortions after Roe was struck down  even if the current district attorneys declined to do so.

The future of abortion rights in Wisconsin, then, likely lies at the ballot box, in statewide and local elections for governor, attorney general, Supreme Court, state Legislature and district attorney.

Its scary, says Jennie Klecker, out on the Sauk City bridge. Kleckers life was saved by removing an ectopic pregnancy that occurred between the births of two of her children.

Im here for their future. Im here for my future and (the future of) women in general.

The nonprofit Wisconsin Watch (www.WisconsinWatch.org) collaborates with Wisconsin Public Radio, PBS Wisconsin, other news media and the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Journalism and Mass Communication. All works created, published, posted or disseminated by Wisconsin Watch do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of UW-Madison or any of its affiliates. This article first appeared on WisconsinWatch.org and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.

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MAUSTON  This small Juneau County community knew retired Judge John Roemer as a man who delivered food baskets to people on Christmas and pies at Thanksgiving.

When Fourth of July fireworks came around, he stood at the entrance to his churchs parking lot to greet those who came to see the show at the best spot in town, recounted Pastor Chip Wilke.

And when Roemers wife developed fatal cancer, he retired from the bench in 2017 to care for her.

He was about just trying to reach the lost with the good news that Jesus is their savior from sin, said Wilke, who has been a pastor at Saint Pauls Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mauston since 2016.

He was just a man very involved in the community, very involved in the church and dearly loved by a lot, Wilke remarked.

A circuit judge in Juneau County for 13 years and retired lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserves, Roemer, 68, was killed by a gunman in the early morning hours Friday at the judges home in the town of Lisbon, about four miles north of Mauston, authorities said.

On Saturday, the Wisconsin Department of Justice identified the gunman as 56-year-old Douglas K. Uhde.

Uhde, who had a list of other government officials he wanted to target, had been sentenced to six years in prison by Roemer in 2005 for armed robbery and other weapons charges.

Roemers brazen killing has rocked the tiny rural community he called home for so many years. Mauston, the county seat, has about 4,500 residents, though its just a quick northwest drive down Interstate 90 from the leisure and novelty attractions of Wisconsin Dells and Lake Delton.

A real shock

Talk of Roemers death floated Saturday morning throughout Maustons storefronts and weekend farmers market, held steps away from the Juneau County Courthouse where the judge once presided.

Its kind of a real shock, said Timothy Cottingham, chair of the Juneau County Board.

A former bailiff and near 30-year veteran of the Juneau County Sheriffs Office, Cottingham knew Roemer for years. Their working and personal relationship extended throughout Roemers career path from public defender and assistant district attorney to the bench.

He treated everybody real fair and equal, Cottingham said. It seems like he would give the benefit of the doubt and try to help people out as much as he could.

He did have quite a sense of humor too, Cottingham recalled. Even in court, he had people laughing and stuff, helped take the tension away.

In the courtroom, Roemer went out of his way to explain sentencing decisions to defendants and why a judge has to follow the law, remembers Ray Feldman, a county supervisor who used to work with Roemer at a private law firm in the 1980s.

He so often would say he hoped they would learn from their mistakes, Feldman said.

Sort of the idealist all the way through his career, Feldman said.

A rare crime

Until Roemers killing, violent crimes in Juneau County were few are far between.

Cottingham said the county saw three homicides in all his years on the force, though there was a pair of drug-related murders in recent years.

He doesnt recall any significant threats made against judges or attorneys in the local legal system.

Its a typical rural town in Wisconsin, Cottingham said. Its tight-knit. All the people do know each other and are extremely friendly.

That tranquility was shattered on Friday, when Uhde entered Roemers house in the 6100 block of Woodland Hills Road around 6:30 a.m. and fired two shots, the Department of Justice said.

Another person in the residence, whom a neighbor identified as one of Roemers sons, fled to a nearby home and alerted law enforcement.

A Juneau County tactical team responded to the scene and tried to negotiate with Uhde, the Justice Department said. Authorities entered the home around 10:30 a.m. to find Roemer dead and Uhde in the basement with a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Uhde was hospitalized in critical condition Saturday, according to the Justice Department.

State troopers still had the entrance to Roemers neighborhood blocked off on Saturday. Roemers white home, which sits just off Highway 58, had police tape lining its exterior and yard.

On the bench

Uhdes 2005 conviction, presided over by Roemer, came at the end of a lengthy series of court fights in the case, which began with an incident in August 2001. Uhde pleaded no contest in 2002, but then successfully got his plea withdrawn on appeal, according to online court records.

Roemer then reset his cash bail at $15,000 but reduced it to $10,000. Uhde represented himself in the case and was again convicted.

Apart from his involvement with Uhde, Roemer presided over high-profile cases in his years on the bench.

In 2017, he presided over a case in which a Lyndon Station village president had been convicted of 22 counts of sexual assault. Roemer ruled that a juror was not credible and granted Donald Coughlin a new trial, in which he was again convicted.

In 2009, Roemer sentenced a former Necedah religious leader for hiding the corpse of a follower who died from natural causes on her toilet.

Fond memories

In a statement on Saturday, Wisconsin Supreme Court Chief Justice Annette Kingsland Ziegler hailed Roemer as a judge who made a tremendous difference in the lives of many people in Juneau County and elsewhere in the state.

The states judicial family is shocked and saddened by this tragedy, Ziegler said.

In his retirement letter to former Gov. Scott Walker, Roemer gave his thanks to the citizens of Juneau County and Wisconsin for giving me this precious opportunity to serve as their circuit court judge.

It is a responsibility that, at times, I can barely fathom, Roemer wrote.

Wilke, Roemers pastor, was left remembering the judge as he prepared to officiate a wedding at his church on Saturday.

Getting emotional, Wilke detailed how he met with Roemers two sons after Fridays tragedy, assuring them their father was now in heaven.

Theyre confident that hes with Jesus, too, Wilke said.

Even as a judge thats dealt with things all his life, the tragedies, he still sees the grace of God in everything, the pastor said.

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On June 2, gunfire broke out in Racines Graceland Cemetery  at a funeral of all places  a place where families are supposed to be able to seek comfort as they grieve, not a place where they are supposed to fear violence.

If previous to that time, anyone was in doubt about the Racine Police Departments need for more officers, no one can be in doubt now.

Racine aldermen are right to put a referendum on the Aug. 9 ballot asking voters to increase the tax levy to fund more officers. And the public should support it.

But, the city cannot wait and should use some of its federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to incentivize officers to work through the summer, giving them summer bonuses to make it happen.

At the Tuesday, May 31 meeting, when the aldermen approved the referendum question, the police department confirmed that the issue went deeper than just the need for hiring 11 positions that were eliminated in 2020.

Racines Assistant Police Chief Alex Ramirez told the City Council that the department is down 20 officers, due primarily to the fact people are leaving at a faster rate than they can be replaced.

He said on Tuesday that the department has experienced a high rate of retirements and was looking at two more retirements at the end of the week.

Ramirez explained it takes a long time to recruit and train new officers; though, they have been able to hire some experienced officers who do not need to attend the law enforcement training academy.

Ramirez also stressed the importance of having an attractive benefits package to aid in recruitment.

During the City Council meeting, where the referendum was approved, aldermen also discussed the federal ARPA funds. Some have advocated using the $46 million in federal ARPA funds the city received to hire new officers now. As Ramirez pointed out, that hiring cannot happen overnight and those 11 officers are only part of the issue because the department is down 20.

But some of those federal funds could be used to incentivize officers to stay for the summer and take up more overtime shifts.

There are a lot of priorities the city is working on, but at the top of the list needs to be safety. People living and visiting the city deserve to feel and be safe when in Racine.

The Aug. 9 referendum if approved, would help. But the city cannot wait to take action. Summer is here and its already off to a bad start.

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1. Yes. Expect rolling blackouts if hot temperatures persist. The grid cant handle the strain.

2. Yes. No significant steps were taken after the grid failed during last years winter storm.

3. No. Texas power officials have been preparing for the hot weather. The grid will be OK.

4. No. If some brown-outs are needed, fine. Thats just part of protecting the system.

5. Unsure. Its hard to know how much stress the energy grid is designed to handle.

Vote

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Memorial Day was five days ago, but the grief and the gratitude it commemorates never fade. Last week, Linn Obery, a friend of mine from Cleveland, sent me an email with his thoughts about Memorial Day.

Memorial Day, he said, isnt just for remembering those who sacrificed their lives for this country. Its also a day to pay homage to their families. While those who died can sleep in peace, their loved ones must live with the pain of their losses for the rest of their lives.

Obery was especially touched by the anguish of the Thomas Sullivan family of Waterloo, Iowa. Thomas and Alleta Sullivan lost all five of their sons at sea during World War II. Heres part of what he wrote:

The Sullivan brothers were assigned to the light cruiser USS Juneau. On Nov. 13, 1942, the Juneau was hit by a submarine torpedo in her ammo magazines after receiving severe battle damage the night before, and she blew sky high. She sank in 42 seconds. All five brothers perished with her.

One witness used the descriptive phrase the fury of an exploding volcano. The task force commander didnt even peel off an escort to see if there were any survivors. No one thought anyone could survive such an explosion, Obery wrote.

It turned out there were a few. They had a hideous adrift-at-sea experience, losing more each day as it continued. Finally they were found and rescued, but only a couple out of a crew of almost 700 survived. It was a Saving Private Ryan without the saving part, he added.

The U.S. Navy has since named two destroyers in memory of the five Sullivan brothers, but the Navy no longer assigns brothers, or now sisters, to the same ship.

Obery knows that the sailors and all members of the military are the celebrated ones, but they werent the only ones who carried a real burden. The boys died quickly. They may not even have known what hit them. Heroes to be sure; may they rest in peace, he said.

But Mr. and Mrs. Sullivan carried that sacrifice for the rest of their days, not only when the Navy captain and chaplain came with the unimaginable news. I suspect there must have been innumerable times when they were stabbed with grief. Passing a schoolyard, or catching a fellow townsfolks second glance of sympathy.

Or maybe just sitting with each other in the living room of a now-suddenly-empty nest. The boys are the remembered ones, but I think Mr. and Mrs. Sullivan carried a real burden, he said.

Obery remembered the words that Abraham Lincoln wrote to a mother who lost a son during the Civil War. He wrote of the great sacrifice laid on the altar of freedom with such humbly magnificent words. It puts a different cast  almost a sacred one  on this day of remembrance, he said.

Obery got it right. Memorial Day isnt just a day for flags, Main Street parades and flowers on the graves of those who served. Its also a day for the families of the fallen.

Fittingly, we commemorate those who gave their lives. Ive seen rows of pristine white gravestones dotting the green grass under shady trees at Arlington National Cemetery, and at Gettysburg, Antietam, Manassas, Fredericksburg, and Chickamauga. I have seen the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D.C.

Two of my fathers brothers served in World War II, but my father did not because doctors thought they saw a tuberculosis spot on his lung during a pre-service physical. Another uncle, on my mothers side, served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. My family was fortunate. They all came home.

So many did not. They left mothers, fathers, wives, husbands, sweethearts, children and dear friends to grieve.

As Obery said, its the ordinary times when the grief of that absence is so acute. Summer picnics. Packing up the car to go camping. Tucking the little ones into bed. Sharing a cup of coffee on a Sunday morning. The sound of a loved ones voice.

Those who gave their lives left loved ones behind. Memorial Day is for them, too.
A press conference on the Shenzhou-14 crewed space mission is held at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, June 4, 2022. (Xinhua/Cai Yang)

JIUQUAN, June 4 (Xinhua) -- The upcoming Shenzhou-14 crewed space mission will complete the construction of the Tiangong space station, with a basic three-module structure consisting of the core module Tianhe and the lab modules Wentian and Mengtian, according to the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) on Saturday.

The mission will build the space station into a national space laboratory, said Lin Xiqiang, deputy director of the CMSA, at a press conference.

China is set to launch the Shenzhou-14 crewed spaceship on Sunday from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, sending three astronauts to its space station combination for a six-month mission.

The Shenzhou-14 crew will work with the ground team to complete the rendezvous, docking and transposition of the two lab modules with the core module, Lin said.

They will enter the two lab modules for the first time and help make the environment suitable for their stay, he said, adding that they will unlock and install a dozen of scientific experiment cabinets in the two modules.

They will also carry out relevant function tests on the two-module space station complex, three-module space station complex, large and small mechanical arms, as well as exit from the airlock cabin in the Wentian lab module, with the assistance of the ground team.

The crew will, for the first time, use the airlock cabin in Wentian to carry out extravehicular activities for two to three times, Lin said.

They will continue to give "Tiangong Class" series to students for science popularization and perform other activities for public good.

The trio will also carry out in-orbit health monitoring, protective exercises, in-orbit training and drills, space station platform inspections and tests, equipment maintenance, as well as station and material management.

During their stay in orbit, the Shenzhou-14 crew will witness the two lab modules, Tianzhou-5 cargo craft and Shenzhou-15 crewed spaceship dock with the core module. They will experience nine space station complex configurations and conduct rendezvous and docking for five times.

The three astronauts will rotate with the Shenzhou-15 crew in orbit, before returning to the Dongfeng landing site in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region in December, Lin said.
The areas first Scooters Coffee drive-thru is expected to open by the end of this month north of the Dairy Queen restaurant in Onalaska.

And the owners of that coffee business plan to build a Scooters Coffee with inside and outside seating as well as a drive-thru, by the end of this year at the current location of Jim Carlsons Auto Center at 1410 S. Holmen Drive, just north of the new WNB Financial bank building in Holmen.

Zach Mueller and Randy Mumm, two of the partners in Scooters Coffee franchisee Northern Grounds LLC, said they hope to start construction in mid-August on their second La Crosse-area location at the northwest corner of Hale Drive and Holmen Drive in Holmen. That site is across Holmen Drive from a Kwik Trip store and a Festival Foods store.

The two Clear Lake, Iowa, men said they continue to look at other potential La Crosse-area locations for additional Scooters Coffee places.

We were impressed with the growth in Holmen, Mumm said of their decision to open a Holmen location. We think theres a lot of potential in that area.

The Holmen store will have inside seating as well as an outdoor patio with seating, Mueller said. But he and Mumm think drive-thru customers will account for most of the Holmen locations sales. They said they wont need all of the land they are buying from Carlson, and plan to put what they dont need up for sale.

The Scooters Coffee under construction at 715 Second Ave. S. in Onalaska will be drive-thru only, with no seating. For more information about Scooters Coffee, which is based in Omaha, Neb., visit www.scooterscoffee.com.

With the Scooters Coffee franchisee about to buy his property, Jim Carlson told me he has been looking for a new location for Jim Carlsons Auto Center.

Im trying to find a place to go, said Carlson, who started his business in August 1976. Were going to downsize a lot.

He plans to continue selling late-model used cars and collector cars, and continue doing appraisals of such cars for insurance companies. And I have a huge parts business for collector cars that will continue, Carlson said. He plans to reduce the amount of service work that his business does, and discontinued collision repair work about two months ago.

Its been a good ride, Carlson said of his nearly 46 years in business.

Coalition Skateboards opened May 22 at its new location at 1022 La Crosse St., just east of Rudys Drive-In in La Crosse, 1  years after closing at 200 Mason St. in Onalaska.

Carl and Lisa Johnson own the business, which sells skateboards, longboards, scooters, apparel and accessories. It also offers tune-ups and repairs. The board shops roots date back to the 1985 opening of Pro Skate.

It closed in October 2020 because I couldnt get any inventory because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Carl Johnson said last week. And he also became very busy as a partner in Coulee Auto in La Crosse.

I was keeping my eye open for a new location (for Coalition Skateboards) if the opportunity were to present itself, and it did, Johnson said. Finding the La Crosse Street location was ultimate the catalyst to proceed with reopening.

Johnson noted the new location is near the Lueth Park skate park, and near the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and Western Technical College campuses. And being next to Rudys Drive-In isnt a bad thing, either, he said.

The board shops hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday and closed Monday. While the Johnsons and shop manager Ryan Lawson havent set a date for the event, Johnson said that Im thinking late June for a grand opening celebration.

For more information, call the board shop at 608-782-4300 or visit its Facebook or Instagram pages.

Strive Medicare will mark its new name and new location with a grand opening celebration and open house from 8 a.m. to noon Friday in Suite 202 on the second floor of the Social Security Administration building at 210 S. Seventh St. in downtown La Crosse.

As of March 28, Strive Medicare is the new name of the business that had been known as Senior Market Solutions. It is owned by its CEO, Rick Teska, who formed Senior Market Solutions in 2008 and has been a Medicare insurance broker for nearly 40 years.

Teska said he feels the new name is more reflective of the products and services that the business provides to people new to or already on Medicare.

The business describes itself as an independent Medicare brokerage that works with more than 20 of the top-rated insurance carriers. Its advisors can help customers get quotes from multiple top insurance carriers. It can help customers compare and evaluate plans, so they can choose the one thats best for them.

For more information, call 800-784-8969 or visit www.strivemedicare.com or Facebook.

Rushford State Bank opened its new Houston, Minn., branch office on May 16 in the former Bremer Bank building at 108 E. Cedar St.

Based in Rushford, Minn., it bought the building from St. Paul-based Bremer Bank, which announced in January that it planned to close its Houston branch on April 15.

From Monday through Thursday, hours are 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for drive-up and 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for the lobby. On Friday, hours are 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. for drive-up and 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. for the lobby. On Saturday, hours are 9 a.m. to noon for both drive-up and the lobby.

The Houston office has a drive-up ATM machine and its full-service lobby has a coin counter.

For more information, call the Houston office at 507-896-7755 or visit www.rushfordstatebank.com.

The opening of the planned LAX Food Hall at 508 Jay St., in the Exchange Building in downtown La Crosse, has been delayed until fall, according to a post Wednesday on its Facebook page.

The post cited construction delays at the food hall, which was originally expected to open June 1. The food hall also announced the signing of an additional restaurant, The Plaid Pineapple. Restaurants announced earlier were PHO 608, Fibonaccis Pasta and Mama Sols Comfort Kitchen.

For more information, visit www.laxfoodhall.com or Facebook.

Steve Cahalan can be reached at stevecahalan.reporter@gmail.com.

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SAINT PAUL, Minn.  The Otto Bremer Trust has awarded $11,090,773 in grants and program-related investments as part of its most recent grantmaking cycle.

Among the area recipients are two La Crosse organizations and one Sparta organization.

The grant recipients are making a positive impact in their communities and we are impressed with the good work they do, said Daniel C. Reardon, co-CEO and trustee, OBT.

The Otto Bremer Trust is a bank holding company and a private charitable trust based in Saint Paul that works at the intersection of finance and philanthropy. Created in 1944 by Otto Bremer, it is today one of the nations largest philanthropic organizations and is committed to supporting a better quality of life for residents of Minnesota, Montana, North Dakota, and Wisconsin.

OBT is the majority owner of Bremer Financial Corporation, a regional financial services company; manages a diversified investment portfolio; and operates Community Benefit Financial Company, a financial resources subsidiary. Since its founding, OBT has invested more than $948 million in people, places, and opportunities in the Upper Midwest. Visit ottobremer.org

Here is a list of grants awarded to organizations in southwest Wisconsin:

ABC for Health Inc., Madison, $75,000. For general operations and program expansion to provide health benefits counseling, legal services, and training to help families in Wisconsin obtain and maintain healthcare coverage.

Access Community Health Centers, Madison, $50,000. For general operations to expand and provide care to uninsured patients in the greater Madison area.

Affordable Dental Care Inc., Madison, $74,174. For general operations and equipment to provide expanded dental care access to individuals in the greater Dane County area.

La Crosse Area Family YMCA, La Crosse, $85,000. For general operations to support health and wellness programming in the La Crosse area.

St. Clare Health Mission of Monroe County, Sparta, $10,000. For general operations to provide free medical services to uninsured, low-income adults living in Monroe County, Wisconsin.

WAFER Inc., La Crosse, $125,000. To support a capital campaign to facilitate the collection and distribution of food while providing dignified patron shopping experiences.

Wisconsin Institute for Learning Disabilities/Dyslexia, Madison, $30,000. For general operations to increase literacy skills for individuals with dyslexia.

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For 2022, the citys Heritage Preservation Commission (HPC) released an updated list of the 10 Most Endangered Historic Properties in La Crosse.

This annual initiative intends to raise awareness and encourage the preservation of historic properties potentially at risk of irreparable damage or demolition due to neglect, natural disaster or redevelopment.

Unchanged from last years list is Fire Station No. 4 at 906 Gillette St. It is unique as the only publicly-owned asset on the endangered list.

Built in 1940 by the well-known La Crosse construction firm Peter Nelson and Son, the stations solid, load-bearing brick walls speak to the investment in craftsmanship, as well as its potential longevity. The city purchased the land in 1927, but the structure wasnt erected until 13 years later because some council members objected to spending so much money.

Station No. 4 is La Crosses oldest, continuously operating firehouse, and it is significant because it looks inherently different from any other firehouses that came before or after it in the area.

From its inception, Norwegian-immigrant and renowned Racine-based architect J. Mandor Matson planned the station to blend in with the surrounding residential neighborhood. This is similar to what was done with the nearby North Side public library, which was designed in 1934 and built in 1942.

Station No. 4 still retains many distinctive features such as its original lounge fireplace, double-hung windows, arched-porch and brass fire poles (which run from the upper-level dormitory down to the lower-level apparatus room).

As the first modern firehouse in La Crosse, built long after the city retired horse-drawn equipment in 1926, Station No. 4 embodies an important cultural milestone. Unlike earlier structures built in the 19th century for largely volunteer forces, this station was made with the future in mind. Its layout included an automatic overhead door, training area and drill structures, surrounding green space and even an unfinished section on the second-floor designated for later development.

In addition to being designated a La Crosse Local Historic Landmark, a recently requested Wisconsin Historical Society evaluation deemed that Fire Station No. 4 extensively meets the eligibility requirements for both the State and National Register of Historic Places and thus also the tax credits for restoration that go along with them.

Unlike other buildings on the endangered list, La Crosses residents and taxpayers own this piece of firefighting history. As such, members of the community have the ability to save it from destruction by reaching out to elected city representatives.

Much like what has been done with many other historic structures throughout the area, this asset could be repurposed for a multitude of other possible uses, such as a community or senior center, restaurant, daycare, museum, event venue or housing units. Doing so would save taxpayers thousands of dollars in demolition costs, benefit the environment by reducing waste and potentially generate annual property tax revenue.

This doesnt have to be a choice between having a new fire station or saving cultural heritage. It is reasonably feasible to do both. This building could reside harmoniously next to a new one instead of being torn down.

With a consequential structure so integral to the neighborhoods character and history, community opinions should be actively sought out and evaluated before doing anything irreversible. Perhaps, we as a city should set the expectation first to prioritize reusing historic buildings before electing to destroy significant pieces of La Crosses historic integrity.

On Wednesdays and Sundays in May, The Tribune will continue to publish articles on HPCs list of La Crosses 10 Most Endangered Historic Properties. Basic information about each property can also be found on the citys heritage preservation website.

Anyone seeking more information about this project or wanting to nominate endangered historic properties for future lists can contact Tim Acklin in the City Planning Department.

Laura Godden is a La Crosse heritage preservation commissioner and UW-La Crosse Murphy Library archivist/assistant professor, and Evelyn Gaunt is an archaeology major and Murphy Library student archivist.

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The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated homelessness in Wisconsin, with the state now facing a deficit of more than 120,000 affordable homes and over 4,500 people experiencing homelessness on any given night, according to the most recent data from the National Low Income Housing Coalition.

However, Milwaukee County has the nations lowest per-capita homeless population, the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced in March. That is thanks to a set of Housing First policies the city has implemented to permanently house as many people as possible before establishing employment, or attending to substance use or mental health issues, said James Mathy, the administrator for the Milwaukee County Housing Division.

Those policies are now being slowly adopted throughout Wisconsin, as Democratic Gov. Tony Evers, running for reelection this year, announced in March about $210 million in grants to combat homelessness in the state.

The Neighborhood Investment Fund comes from the huge sums the state received from the Democrats nearly $2 trillion federal stimulus from 2021 called the American Rescue Plan. The fund is intended to help cities address a variety of issues, with the majority of grants creating affordable housing and supporting those struggling with homelessness, according to the state.

The city and county of Milwaukee are set to receive a total of $25 million from the fund, according to the state. Milwaukee County will receive two grants totaling just over $10 million. More than $7 million will go toward building 120 single-family homes for people of color, and will focus on affordable homeownership, Mathy said.

Another $3 million will go toward acquiring and rehabbing a building on the citys south side that contains a community food pantry and a transitional housing program according to Mathy. The city of Milwaukee is set to receive $15 million for similar projects.

Other cities getting big grants from the Neighborhood Investment Fund for housing and homelessness include Racine, which will receive $15 million, and Juneau, population about 2,600, will get $10 million in funds. The Ho-Chunk Nation will receive nearly $12 million for that same problem in Black River Falls. Viroqua, population about 4,500, will get $6 million.

The cities of Ashwaubenon, Eau Claire, Fond Du Lac, Lancaster, Menomonie, Oshkosh, and Wausau will all receive between $2 million and $5 million, approximately.

That funding will be crucial, as Wisconsins homeless population is growing in every area of the state, said Michael Basford, the director of the Wisconsin Interagency Council on Homelessness, a state agency with the goal of ending homelessness.

It really is a universal issue throughout the state  everywhere that Ive been able to go see it in person, or virtually over the last nearly three years, everybody tells me the same thing, Basford said. Access to units that are affordable, particularly to people who are low income, is the number one barrier for people who are experiencing homelessness.

About 270 individuals were experiencing homelessness in La Crosse as of April. And while the city did not receive a Neighborhood Investment Grant, officials have been trying to get creative to address the growing issue.

After housing people in a hotel over the winter, La Crosse has designated one of its parks as a campground where those facing homelessness are allowed to pitch tents and stay for the summer. Its seen as a centralized space where agencies and food services can help the most people in one spot.

La Crosse still has its eyes on something more long-term, such as transitional or bridge housing or a city-owned shelter, but officials werent able to secure anything over the winter.

Housing prices across the state have doubled since 2012, and have increased nearly $100,000 on average over the last 5 years, according to the Wisconsin Realtors Association.

Its hard to pinpoint the exact reason housing prices are rising all over the state, Basford said, but in Madison, costs could be driven by the growth in the data sector. On the eastern and western sides of the state, he speculated, the Milwaukee and Twin Cities economies could be pushing people further away from their work.

A huge jump in material prices has also supercharged the housing market. Prices for building materials have risen 33% since the start of the pandemic, according to the National Association of Home Builders.

In the Milwaukee metro area, a renter would need to make about $19 per hour to afford the rent and utilities on a fair market-priced, two-bedroom apartment on a 40-hour workweek, according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, a nonprofit aimed at decreasing homelessness for low-income people. In Madison, that number is over $23 per hour. The states minimum wage is $7.25 per hour.

If I was the Tsar of Wisconsin and I could make budgetary decisions, I would create a program where I would just cut checks out of whatever is available in the budget for [affordable housing], Basford said. But that politically is not a viable option.

Current remedies for creating affordable housing include the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC), which awards subsidies to private companies to build affordable housing.

Relying on LIHTC is something that is done most often, because thats something thats available right now, Basford said.

More than 900 affordable units will be built around the state thanks to the Neighborhood Investment Grant, Basford said, but thats far from the 120,000 units he says Wisconsin needs.

That number doesnt mean that you have 120,000 homeless every night, but that does mean thousands of households are one broken arm or COVID diagnosis away from not being able to pay the bills, Basford said, referring to emergencies that prevent people from working. There is still going to be a very substantial need for more affordable housing, and that is going to be a very heavy lift.

Milwaukees Housing First program

Housing First policies were first adopted in Milwaukee in 2015 when a group of care partners, city leaders and politicians sat down to create a system that HUD says helped the city succeed in achieving the lowest per-capita homeless population in America.

A lot of large institutions bought into this plan, Mathy said. Having all of our focus on permanently ending cycles of homelessness, instead of just being reactive, is what made these numbers possible.

On top of using tax credits to create affordable homes, caseworkers in downtown Milwaukee conduct street outreach five days a week, where they work with unsheltered people to put them directly into permanent housing.Data from the Milwaukee County Housing Division shows a 92% reduction in the homeless population on the street since Housing First policies were adopted in 2015, and a 53% reduction in the homeless population that is temporarily sheltered.

The Milwaukee County District Attorneys office, the Milwaukee Police Department, and the Milwaukee County Sheriffs Office are all partners with the Housing Division  which can be the difference between a homeless person getting forcibly removed from a tent city or getting permanent housing, Mathy said.

We want to make sure that people arent just kicked out of encampments, Mathy said. The idea of Housing First is to decriminalize homelessness, and to make sure people are put in permanent housing.

Mathy says 80% of the homeless households served in Milwaukee County are Black. This demographic in Milwaukee has the highest rate of poverty in any demographic group, according to the U.S. Census.

Making major reductions in homelessness is absolutely possible, if everybodys working together and following the same philosophy, Mathy said. Oftentimes it doesnt take unbelievably large financial investments. A lot is just coordination, and building a good public-private partnership.

Inspiration from Houston, Texas

Many of the policies and practices Milwaukee has implemented were initially successful in Houston, a city HUD named a priority community in 2012.

An audit of the citys homeless resources found the system disjointed, with duplicative services and people passed around instead of directed toward housing, according to Ana Rausch, the Vice President of Program Operations at the Coalition for the Homeless of Houston/Harris County.

Like Milwaukee three years later, the various organizations in Houston first met to agree on a strategy to address homelessness. Leaders decided to pursue Housing First policies that prioritized moving people to permanent housing as fast as possible. The city also set up a facility to recruit and retain landlords and properties for the program.

The latest homeless count found just over 3,000 homeless people in Houston  a third of what it had been in 2011.

It may be tempting to want to respond to the political pressure, or the community pressure of getting rid of that visible homelessness right away, but its just a Band-aid, Rausch said. Its so expensive to temporarily house people. Just doing it right may take a little bit longer, but in the end, you permanently solved the situation instead of pushing them around temporary shelters.

While there have been pitfalls to Houstons system  including dirty apartments, apathetic landlords and potentially long waits to be housed  it boasts a 90% success rate in either keeping people housed after 2 years or a positive transition to more permanent housing, Rausch said.

We put the majority of our funding into permanent housing because we believe that the only way to permanently end someones homelessness is to provide them with housing and supportive services, period, Rausch said.

The Badger Project is a non-profit producing investigative journalism in the state. For more visit thebadgerproject.org.

The Badger Project is a nonpartisan, citizen-supported journalism nonprofit in Wisconsin. For more visit thebadgerproject.org. La Crosse Tribune reporter Olivia Herken contributed to this story

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The Onalaska Area Business Association recently held its annual banquet at the Cedar Creek Country Club.

Leah Jacobs of Citizens State Bank again was named board president for 2022-2023. Other officers are vice president Douglas Billings of Gerrard-Hoeschler, treasurer Mark Cassellius of Active Chiropractic and secretary Jolene Schindler of Blains Farm & Fleet, all keeping their positions for another year.

The board welcomes SJ Jensen of Three Sixty Real Estate Solutions to her new position as OABAs membership director.

Back in 2021 OABA enlisted the help of Tina Severson and her team at Severson & Associates to help assist with communications and marketing for the organization. Dan Stevens from Stonebridge Credit was awarded with the 2022 Presidents Award, which is presented to a dedicated individual of good character who has contributed positively to the good of the Onalaska community through leadership and outstanding accomplishments.

Dr. Mark Cassellius received the 25 Year Service award for his over two decades of service to the organization.

Two $1,000 scholarships were awarded as well, one to Natalie Mumm of Onalaska High School and the other to Ellie Kline of Holmen High School.

Kelly Kreig-Sigman, the former director of the La Crosse Public Library, was the speaker. Learn more about OABA, the annual scholarship awards or how to join by visiting https://oaba.info/.

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Since the 2020 riots, schools across the nation have removed their officers on campus grounds, but crime rose and schools were left defenseless.

Now a great massacre at Uvalde shows that there is no bargaining with the evil, there is no mercy from shooters, and we need officers to protect our children. The more details from Uvalde, the more horrifying the reality becomes. Were more vulnerable, not only in Uvalde, but our own state as well.

Wisconsin schools have been getting rid of officers in the schools ever since 2020. In La Crosse, the district decided to phase out school resource officers, quietly removing them during the pandemic from five to three, and planned on then getting rid of another one, possibly removing them all together in the future.

But as the 2020-21 school year began, already there were problems. In La Crosse Central, students vandalized the bathrooms because of a social media trend, stealing soap dispensers and toilet paper, and damaging toilets so badly that the school had to remove and replace them, but it soon stopped replacing supplies and let the rot boil down uncontested.

In the last decade, the La Crosse Police Department recorded the violent threats against the school district, ranging from the most serious shooting to bombing threats. There was a total of 18 threats, but this year stood out the most. Out of the 18, 10 came from this year alone.

Three times La Crosse Central had to shut down or evacuate from these threats. This is unacceptable. Each and every event here couldve been just like Uvalde, and it wouldve been too easy without officers in the building.

The massacre at Uvalde was the result of such easily preventable actions. The doors were unlocked, there was no officer in the building, it took an hour for the officers to stop the shooter after they were waiting for help, and more details are still being released, but there was a truth among the disaster. We need to act fast in situations like these and stop the shooter at the fastest method possible or else lives will be at stake.

How are we supposed to do that if there is no security in the schools? You can only be proactive for so long, but once something slips through the gates, you have to respond immediately.

My name is Adam Manka, now a junior at La Crosse Central, and I started the petition to keep the school resource officers in our schools. My mission is to keep our schools safe as soon as I saw we were failing on keeping our children safe.

After what happened in Uvalde, it has become clear that we need security more than ever. We need competent police trained in these situations and we need action as soon as a threat occurs, not an hour later. Our teachers were already overwhelmed and our social workers can not stop an active shooter threat by themselves. We need to get them back before we grief for the lives of such easily preventable deaths.

I urge you to check your own school districts and see how were protecting our public schools. We should push for school resource officers through the state, as Kentucky mandated last session through House Bill 63.

This issue wont go away until we make sure every school is protected when the worse comes to worse. We need them competent, we need them trained, but most importantly, we need them there.

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The slaughter at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, has stunned a country tragically accustomed to mass shootings. Coming just days after the atrocity at Buffalo, New York, this latest outrage has strengthened calls for tighter gun laws. This time, perhaps, something might actually be done.

One approach looks especially promising. So-called red-flag laws  measures that allow police or family members to ask a court to intervene when someone poses a threat to himself or others  are commanding renewed bipartisan support. They arent infallible: Nothing could be in a country awash with guns. But more than half of mass shooters exhibited clear warning signs before committing their crimes, which makes such laws worthwhile. When it comes to gun control, the combination of efficacy and feasibility is rare. Policy makers should seize the moment.

Opponents of red-flag laws call them unfair because they lack due process. In truth, theyre no more burdensome than traditional domestic-protection laws, found in all 50 states. No ones guns are taken away without a judges approval. If a temporary seizure is approved, another hearing is convened within weeks to allow the recipient of the order to offer a defense. In turn, the reporting parties must make their case for extending the order. The process isnt foolproof but, given the stakes, its surely a fair one.

A more pressing concern is whether such laws really work. Theyre now on the books of 19 states, but theyre relatively new, so its hard to sure just yet. Still, the research so far is encouraging. In Connecticut, which enacted one of the first red-flag laws, a study estimated that one life has been saved for every 10 to 20 protection orders issued. A California study looked at 21 orders issued against individuals whod made mass shooting threats and found no violence subsequently attributed to any of them.

Its unclear to what extent the shooter in Uvalde was known to pose a threat before he began his attack. The Buffalo case also underlines the limits, because New York already had a red-flag law. The killer was known to the authorities and had been subject to a mental-health evaluation. Upon release, with no extreme-risk protection order issued, he was able to go out and buy the murder weapon. Exactly what went wrong is being investigated.

These inquiries might yield lessons. Perhaps the responding officers and others were simply unaware of the law. The police need to be trained to apply such orders  and the general public needs to be made aware. Legal ambiguities also need to be cleared up. The Buffalo shooter was a minor at the time of his mental-health evaluation and hence forbidden to buy a gun in any case; perhaps the authorities thought the red-flag law was therefore irrelevant. Washington state has updated its red-flag law so that it clearly applies to teens who might have access to guns in the home.

Officials will never be clairvoyant. Mistakes will be made. Yet red-flag laws have real potential. In the US, public opinion and the courts constrain what can be done, so policy makers have to make the best of imperfect solutions. Whether red-flag laws are advanced state by state, or by action in the US Congress, the benefits will outweigh the drawbacks. After the horrors of Buffalo and Uvalde, theres no excuse for failing to act.

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Across the country, someones identity is stolen every two seconds. AARP Minnesota is sharing fraud tips each month for our readers. Here is the June report:

Medicare fraud

Medicare fraud continues to ravage the program to the tune of billions of dollars a year. And while the cost to the program increases costs for beneficiaries in the form of higher premiums, much more is at stake. Your healthcare history can be affected if someone steals your number and uses it to get treatment that ends up in your file. Also, receiving Medicare-covered equipment or tests unknowingly from a scammer can make you ineligible for those services down the road.

The two most important things you can do to help fight Medicare fraud is to never give your Medicare number out to anyone but your trusted health care providers and always review your Medicare statement carefully and report any unauthorized charges.

Western Union refund deadline

If you lost money to a scam that involved wiring money through Western Union between Jan. 1, 2004, and Jan. 19, 2017, you have until July 1 to file a claim for a refund under a settlement between the payment service and the federal government.

During roughly that time period, wire transfers were the preferred form of payment for criminal scammers and millions of people lost money through coerced transactions. Western Union admitted to lapsed oversight and agreed to forfeit $586 million to provide refunds to consumers who were deceived into using the service to send money to scammers.

If you believe you are eligible but have not been contacted by the administrator, call 855-786-1048 to request a form, or visit www.westernunionremissionphase2.com. Only victims who lost money through a Western Union wire transfer between Jan. 1, 2004, and Jan. 19, 2017 are eligible for relief.

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

When we think about scammers, we often think of stranger danger stemming from overseas criminal enterprises bombarding our phones and emails with fraudulent messages. The sad reality for older adults is that most financial abuse they suffer is perpetrated by someone they know.

This Wednesday, June 15, is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and its the perfect time to remember that older adults are vulnerable to financial abuse by loved ones as well as strangers. Some warning signs include: a caregiver or family member who suddenly asks for access to your loved ones accounts or possessions, changes in their financial practices such as new credit cards or unopened bank statements, or a financial agent who isnt following your loved ones wishes.

Most importantly, if you suspect abuse of any type, report it to local law enforcement right away.

Student debt relief scams

School is out for the year, but for millions the bills keep on coming. More than 43 million Americans are paying off student loans and every one of them is eager to do so as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, this eagerness creates an opportunity for scammers.

These scams typically start with a debt relief expert reaching out with an unsolicited offer to help navigate through state and federal programs to help you reduce or restructure your debt. This offer may include instant, easy-to-access loan forgiveness options, sometimes connected to the COVID-19 pandemic. Then comes the red flag. These fraudulent offers all ask for payment or personal information such as a Social Security number or your student aid login information.

If you are a student borrower, there are two important things to know. First theres nothing that these companies can research for you that you cant legitimately find for yourself for free. Second, it is illegal for debt relief companies to collect payment from you before they get results, so upfront fees are a surefire sign of a scam.

For free information on getting help with federal student loans visit StudentAid.gov.

Rental car scams

For the second year in a row, sticker shock  especially with rental cars  is greeting summer travelers. Reduction in fleet sizes during the pandemic and supply chain issues have once again created a situation where rental care demand is high, supply is tight, and prices are high.

Criminals are paying attention and posting fake rental car deals at rock bottom prices online. While everyone loves a good deal, doing business with an entity you arent familiar with could be risky. Whatever your travel needs, stick to reputable websites with proven track records. Note  some scammers create fake websites that look like the real sites of well-known rental car companies, so make sure to look closely at the web address. If you do find a deal with an unfamiliar provider, do your research: look up the company name with scam or complaint and see what appears, and check out reviews.

Be a fraud fighter! If you can spot a scam, you can stop a scam.

Visit the AARP Fraud Watch Network at www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork or call the AARP Fraud Watch Helpline at 1-877-908-3360.

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When Russia invaded Ukraine in late February, many Western governments acted to restrict trade and other exchange with Vladimir Putins government.

But the restrictions with Russia have not only affected the exchange of goods. The restrictions have also affected academic exchange.

Western students studying in Russia came home. Universities in the United States that offered support to Russian universities withdrew their financial and academic aid. Western scientists working with Russian scientists suspended their research.

Arik Burakovsky is an expert on international law and diplomacy at Tufts University in Massachusetts. He is also the assistant director of the Russia and Eurasia program at the universitys Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy.

In an explainer written for The Conversation, Burakovsky said that the cutting of ties with Russian universities will harm academic exchange. He added that, without the exchange of ideas between Russians and Western scholars, President Vladimir Putin may be able to keep democratic ideas from coming into his country.

What kind of connections existed between Western and Russian universities?

Since the end of the Cold War in 1991, Burakovsky said, Russian and Western universities worked on academic exchange programs, lesson development and research projects.

As a result, Russias universities have become stronger.

Russian universities also built school buildings in former Soviet countries and offered their students chances to study abroad. In recent years, Russian universities taught more classes in English. This helped welcome students from other countries. Russian universities also created degree programs with Western universities. For example, there was a masters degree offered by the Moscow School for the Social and Economic Sciences together with the University of Manchester in Great Britain.

What have the relationships produced?

Western and Russian students learned about each others cultures, languages and societies. Scientists worked together on projects related to space exploration, physics, climate change, Arctic biology and more.

However, after a while, Russian leaders started to worry about educating young people in the Western way. They thought the Western ideas might influence young people. They were concerned those young people would then protest and ask for a more open government and open elections.

Even before the invasion of Ukraine, Putins government started restricting the kind of organizations that could work in Russia. For example, in 2021, an American professor at St. Petersburg State University was deported because of his connection with Bard College in New York state. Bard was considered an undesirable organization.

That same year, Russia changed an education law and required government approval for all foreign academic partnerships. The law related to propaganda and negative foreign influence in the educational process.

Burakovsky said in his time at Tufts, he has overseen teaching and research exchanges with universities and research organizations in Moscow, Vladivostok and St. Petersburg. The exchanges permitted students to gain a better understanding of international policy.

But since March, that work has been considered morally unacceptable by leaders at his university.

Are future relationships between Western universities and Russian universities in trouble because of the war?

Burakovsky says: yes. While many academic leaders in the U.S. cautioned against moving too quickly, students are no longer permitted to study in Russia and most U.S. universities ended support of programs in Russia. A number of universities ended their financial investments in Russia as well.

For example, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology ended a partnership that had cost millions of dollars with the Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology in Russia. The partnership had been in place since 2010.

What are the reasons both for and against breaking ties with Russia?

Britain also said it would remove funding for all research projects with links to Russia.

Chris Philp is Britains minister for technology and the digital economy. He said he does not see how anyone in good conscience can collaborate with Russian universities.

Philp and others who support ending attachments with Russia say it is a way to stand against Putin and his government. They also say breaking academic connections protects their countries from Russian spying, hurts Putins ability to spread propaganda and reduces Russias ability to steal technology.

Opponents of the stand against Russia say students and scholars are getting hurt. They add that the plan to detach from Russia sets a bad example for the future of international exchange.

They say that cooperating on work such as scientific research strengthens democracy and fights the spread of false ideas. Nations working together on research, they say, supports the idea that countries can work together to solve political problems, too.

In a speech at Imperial College in London, Harvard University president Lawrence Bacow spoke of the importance of keeping academic relations in place even in difficult political times.

However, Burakovsky notes that Harvards Davis Center for Russian and Eurasian Studies published a message condemning Russias invasion of Ukraine. The Davis Center said it would no longer work with Russian universities whose leaders signed a document offering their support for the war.

How will the broken connections affect higher education in Russia?

Burakovsky suggests the broken connections will hurt young Russian scholars. The moves also may help Putins government by making the students and teachers feel like there is no hope of help from the West.

Russian researchers say they feel the lack of connection with colleagues in other parts of the world. Russia said in March that it would not permit its scientists and educators to take part in international meetings.

Can Russian scholars safely speak against the invasion of Ukraine?

In short, Burakovsky says no, and points to recent laws in Russia that punish the spread of false information with up to 15 years in prison.

Educators in Russia risk losing their jobs and going to prison if they criticize the war. Many teachers, students and writers left the country on their own when the war started.

Im Dan Friedell.

Dan Friedell adapted this story for VOA Learning English based on a story written by Arik Burakovsky in The Conversation.

Write to us in the Comments Section and visit our Facebook page. Quiz - How Russias War in Ukraine Will Hurt Academic Exchange Start the Quiz to find out Start Quiz

Words in This Story

academic  adj. relating to schools and education

scholar n. a person who has studied a subject for a long time and knows a lot about it

lesson n. a single class or part of a course of instruction

negative- adj. harmful or bad, not wanted

conscience- n. the part of the mind that makes you aware of your actions relating to right and wrong

collaborate- v. to work together on a project

colleague n. a person who works with you
University of Tokyo researchers in Japan have created a new technology that uses food waste in a surprising way.

Student Kota Machida and Professor Yuya Sakai say the operation can turn food waste into a strong but bendable material like cement. They say it is four times stronger than regular concrete, and is sustainable.

And, you can eat it, the researchers found.

Professor Sakai was looking for a way to replace cement-based concrete with sustainable materials. Cement production releases high levels of carbon dioxide waste into the air, says research group Chatham House.

Food waste is a big problem in Japan and the world. In 2019, Japan produced 5.7 million tons of food waste. The government is working on reducing this to 2.7 million by 2030.

The food waste that would typically end up in landfills, rotting, and releasing methane gas, can now be used to make the concrete. The material can be reused and buried in the ground if not needed without affecting the environment.

Sakai and Machida say they hope the new material can replace plastic and cement, and slow global warming linked to food waste, as well.

Creating food waste cement

At first Sakai used wood particles with heat and pressure to create the concrete, and then he moved onto food waste with plastics mixed in. Through a process of drying, crushing, and compressing the food waste, Sakai and his student Machida had successfully made cement from food waste without plastic. They adjusted the pressure and the temperature with simple equipment that can be bought from the internet.

"The most challenging part was that each type of food waste requires different temperatures and pressure levels," Sakai said.

The team have used different types of food waste to make the cement, including tea leaves, orange peels, coffee grounds, and leftover lunch materials.

Since the cement can be eaten, Sakai and Machida have changed the flavors with different spices. They have enjoyed the different colors, smell, and even the taste of the cement. Sakai said that in order to eat it a person needs to break it apart and boil it.

Machida, along with two friends have created a company called Fabula, Inc. They are working with other companies to use the material to make products for the home.

Sakai said that the process of creating the cement could be used to make temporary housing that can be eaten if a disaster happens. He said, "For example, if food cannot be delivered to evacuees, they could eat makeshift beds made out of food cement."

Im Faith Pirlo.

Chisato Tanka reported this story for the Associated Press. Faith Pirlo adapted it for VOA Learning English.

__________________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

cement  n. a soft gray powder that is mixed with water and other substances to make concrete

construction  n. the process of building something

concrete  n. a hard, strong material that is used for building and made by mixing cement, sand, and broken rocks with water

sustainable  adj. involving methods that do not completely use up or destroy natural resources

emission  n. the act of releasing something

methane  n. a gas that has no color or smell that is used for cooking and heating

particles  n. a very small piece of something

challenging  adj. difficult in a way that is sometimes interesting or enjoyable

deliver v. to provide

evacuees  n. people who are removed from a dangerous place

makeshift  adj. temporary or basic
Scientists have used a new tool to discover more than 100 asteroids that had not been identified before.

The method uses a complex computing method called an algorithm to search for asteroids that were not discoverable in the past. They were not discoverable because existing telescopes and image examination tools could not recognize them.

Historically, the American space agency NASA has used powerful ground-based telescopes and its NEOWISE spacecraft to identify asteroids and other near-Earth objects. NASA also uses tracking systems to follow the movements of asteroids.

Scientists place a high importance on identifying and tracking near-Earth objects because some of them could present threats to our planet. With this in mind, NASA launched a spacecraft last November that aims to demonstrate a possible defensive method against asteroids that might threaten Earth.

The discovery of 104 new asteroids was recently announced by the American-based non-profit Asteroid Institute. The organization hopes the new asteroid search tool will lead to the discovery of many more asteroids in the coming years.

The Asteroid Institute is part of the B612 Foundation. The institute explains on its website that it aims to combine computer science, instrumentation and astronomy to find and track asteroids.



Ed Lu is the director of the B612 Foundation. He is also a former NASA astronaut. He praised the new tool in a statement announcing the organizations latest finding. Discovering and tracking asteroids is crucial to understanding our solar system, enabling development of space and protecting our planet from asteroid impacts, Lu said.

The institute calls its discovery tool Asteroid Discovery Analysis and Mapping, or ADAM. This system uses the algorithm to link points of light in different sky images that are consistent with asteroid orbits.

The tool is trained to find asteroids based on existing data and to calculate their orbits well enough to be recognized by international astronomy organizations.

Lu said the ADAM tool and the algorithm together make it possible for any telescope with an archive to become an asteroid search telescope.

The Asteroid Institute worked together with the technology company Google on the project. Google says its cloud-computing system supported the computational power needed for the asteroid discovery system.

We always dreamed of cloud computing becoming a true tool of science and the announcement of todays and future asteroid discoveries show that this dream is becoming a reality, said Scott Penberthy. He is the director of Applied AI at Google.

Researchers from the University of Washington also cooperated on the project. Joachim Moeyens is one of those researchers. He reported that he searched a 30-day window of images during the discovery operation.

The images came from the NOIRLab Source Catalog. The catalog is a collection of nearly 68 billion observations made by telescopes operated by the Arizona-based National Optical Astronomy Observatory between 2012 and 2019.

After making his first set of asteroid discoveries from the images, Moeyens sent his results to the Minor Planet Center. The NASA-supported center is an international body responsible for officially registering observed near-Earth objects. The center was able to recognize and confirm Moeyens 104 asteroid discoveries.

Moeyens and other researchers say the latest identifications are just the beginning. They predict their asteroid search tool will result in thousands of new discoveries in the future.

Im Bryan Lynn.

Bryan Lynn wrote this story for VOA Learning English, based on reports from The Asteroid Institute, the University of Washington and Google.

We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section, and visit our Facebook page.

Quiz - Scientists Use New Technology Tool to Discover New Asteroids Start the Quiz to find out Start Quiz

___________________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

asteroid  n. a rocky object that goes around the sun like a planet

track  v. to record the progress or development of something

crucial  adj. extremely important or necessary

impact  n. an act or event in which something strikes another thing

consistent  adj. always behaving in a similar way

calculate  v. to discover an amount or number using mathematics

archive  n. a collection of historical documents that provides information about the past, or a place where they are kept

catalogue  n. a listing of things combined into one source
MILWAUKEE  In the closing round of the 2022 Wisconsin Governors Business Plan Contest, all three finalists in the advanced manufacturing category offered ideas for dealing with threats to water supply.

During the recent Research in the Rotunda exhibit in the state Capitol by undergraduate students and faculty advisers in the UW System, 16 of 89 posters dealt with challenges to water and aquatic life.

Some of Wisconsins largest companies have put water at the core of their sustainability strategy, and groups such as the Wisconsin Manufacturing Extension Partnership are offering water stewardship training programs to help all sizes of businesses better manage water use.

Those are just three examples of how innovation tied to water  one of Wisconsins most vital resources for reasons ranging from farming to tourism to manufacturing  offers hope in the years ahead as pressures mount on the supply and quality of fresh water in Wisconsin and beyond.

The stories of such pressures have become commonplace, almost numbingly so.

Water supplies in the American West are at record or near-record lows, with extended drought and other factors lowering reservoirs such as Shasta Lake, Lake Mead and Lake Powell.

In Florida, which has the worlds densest concentration of freshwater springs, a combination of poorly placed development, over-pumping, pollution and the effects of climate change significantly reduced water flow from many springs. Some have stopped flowing altogether.

Closer to home, fishery experts in Wisconsin are worried that warming streams and lakes will make it much harder for trout and walleye to reach maturity, no matter how well those bodies of water are replenished with fingerlings and fry.

Likely 99% of the U.S. population doesnt give much thought about how they get their water or where their wastewater goes, but there are an endless amount of technologies required to clean and treat water and to make is safe and abundant for people and business, said Dean Amhaus, president and chief executive officer of The Water Council, a Milwaukee-based umbrella group that works with industry and academia alike.

Sadly, we as a nation commit a paltry amount to water technology solutions compared with the research investment of other countries or what we commit to energy innovations. If we want meaningful change, we need to get serious about placing greater value on water innovations and we have to do it immediately, Amhaus added.

Wisconsin has something of a head start. Water research takes place at most of the states major campuses, including UW-Madison, UW-Milwaukee and Marquette University. As demonstrated by the Research in the Rotunda event, research into water challenges is found at other UW System campuses, as well. For example, UW-Superior has expertise in maritime science and freshwater estuaries. It will likely take private-sector investment to spur faster adoption of water tech, however.

Three examples of innovation at the June 1-2 Wisconsin Entrepreneurs Conference, where the business plan contest culminated, exhibited the statewide reach of water research and development.

Madison-based ChloBis Water pitched its energy-efficient process to remove salt from water and convert it into valuable chemicals (such as caustic soda or bleach) while creating a sustainable resource recovery cycle.

Rapid Radicals Technology, based in Milwaukee, presented its plan to eliminate sewer overflows and basement backups by expanding existing municipal infrastructure to include decentralized, high-rate wastewater treatment technology.

La Crosse-based CompRex competed with its plan to develop a water and wastewater treatment system for removal of PFAS, which are chemicals commonly found in consumer and manufacturing products.

Water is still cheap in most places, and the speed at which innovation is embraced is slow. To guarantee the future of fresh water as a resource, its time to treat water as a commodity that can  and will  run out if taken for granted.

Tom Still is the president of the Wisconsin Technology Council. Email: tstill@wisconsintechnologycouncil.com.
TOKYO (AP)  Japanese adventurer Kenichi Horie at 83 just became the oldest person in the world to complete a solo, nonstop voyage across the Pacific Ocean  and he says he is still in the middle of my youth and not done yet.

Horie returned home as he crossed the Kii Strait off Japans western coast early Saturday, completing his trans-Pacific solo voyage in 69 days after leaving a yacht harbor in San Francisco in late March.

On Sunday, after spending the night on his 19-foot (6-meter) -long Suntory Mermaid III just off the coast, Horie was towed into his home port of Shin Nishinomiya, where he was cheered by local residents and supporters and banners that read: Welcome back, Mr. Kenichi Horie!

As he approached the harbor, Horie, standing in his boat, took off his white cap and waved. He got off the yacht, took off the cap again and bowed deeply on the pier before he was presented with bouquets of roses.

Thank you for waiting! said Horie, who appeared tanned and with his white hair longer than usual.

He carried a stock of medicine from San Francisco, he said, but only used eye drops and Band-Aids during his more than two months alone at sea.

That shows how healthy I am, Horie said. Im still in the middle of my youth.

He said he burned all my body and soul on the journey but says he's ready for more. I will keep up my work to be a late bloomer."

At a news conference at the yacht harbor later Sunday, he said becoming the oldest person to make the feat was a dream come true. "It was my great joy to have been able to make a challenge as a real goal and safely achieve it, instead of just holding onto it as a dream.

I want to be a challenger as long as I live, he said.

It 1962, he became the first person in the world to successfully complete a solo nonstop voyage across the Pacific from Japan to San Francisco. Sixty years later, he traveled the opposite route.

This time, his preparation during the coronavirus pandemic was full of uncertainties involving vaccine requirements, testing and other logistics. It was like walking on thin ice, he said.

Soon after his departure from San Francisco, he was faced with a storm, but the weather gradually improved and he reached Hawaii in mid-April ahead of schedule.

He had some struggles toward the end with a few days of pushback from a strong tide. He wrote on his blog on Friday that he had succeeded but was exhausted, and he took a nap after feeling assured that his yacht was on the right track to the finish line.

Horie has completed other long-distance solo voyages, including sailing around the world in 1974. His latest expedition was the first since his 2008 solo nonstop voyage on a wave-powered boat from Hawaii to the Kii Strait.

Despite sailing on his own, technology such as ship tracking and communications allowed him to stay in touch with his family and other people throughout the journey. I imagine my next voyage would be even more fun, he said.

Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
A retired Juneau County judge who was gunned down in his home Friday morning had sentenced his alleged killer to six years in prison for armed burglary and other weapons charges in 2005, online court records show.

Douglas K. Uhde, 56, shot and killed John Roemer, 68, after entering the judges home in the town of Lisbon around 6:30 a.m., the state Department of Justice said in a statement Saturday.

Law enforcement officers tried to negotiate with Uhde before entering the residence around 10:15 a.m., the DOJ said. In the home, they found Roemer dead and zip-tied to a chair and Uhde in the basement with a self-inflicted gunshot wound, a law enforcement official told The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.

Uhde was taken to the hospital and remains in critical condition, the DOJ said.

Investigators have said Uhde planned to target other government officials and found a list in his vehicle that included Roemer, Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, said the official who was not authorized to discuss details of the investigation publicly.

The 56-year-old has an extensive criminal and prison record spanning at least two decades.

In 2005, Uhde was convicted in Adams County Circuit Court of burglary while armed and other weapons offenses, including possession of a short-barreled shotgun or rifle.

Roemer was not the judge at the time the case was initially tried in 2002 but did preside over the withdrawal of Uhdes no contest plea and subsequent reconviction after a court of appeals reversed his earlier conviction, sentencing him to six years in prison and nine years of extended supervision.

Uhde has later convictions for escape/criminal arrest, fleeing an officer, driving a stolen vehicle and obstructing police.

Record of appeals by Douglas Uhde Appeals filed by Douglas K. Uhde, who police say shot and killed retired Juneau County Circuit Court Judge John Roemer in his home Friday morn

His 2005 conviction came at the end of a lengthy series of court fights in the case, which began with an incident in August 2001. After pleading no contest in 2002, Uhde pursued an appeal and succeeded in withdrawing his plea, according to online court records.

After his attorney withdrew from the case, Uhde appears to have represented himself, was reconvicted and appealed again.

For his subsequent offenses, Uhde was sentenced  by other judges  first to 9 months in jail for the escape in 2007, and then seven years in prison and four years of extended supervision for fleeing police and driving a vehicle without the owners permission in 2008.

According to court records, the escape conviction came after Uhde walked away from a job site in Baraboo while an inmate at the Fox Lake Correctional Institution. He pleaded no contest in Dodge County and was sentenced to 18 months in prison. He appealed the conviction because the job site was in Sauk County, but the appeal was denied.

After Uhde escaped, a truck owned by Easter Seals was reported stolen in Wisconsin Dells. Rome police found a salt spreader and other items that had been in the truck 10 days later.

Uhdes former girlfriend told police she was afraid Uhde might come to her house. She received three phones calls from him the next day, according to court records. Uhde told her he was driving a newer pickup truck. Police tracked the call to a pay phone and put the truck under surveillance.

Two days later, a woman spotted Uhde standing in his ex-girlfriends yard. Later that night, police saw a truck fitting the description of the one Uhde was driving outside the ex-girlfriends home and where she worked.

When police got closer, the truck drove away. Following a high-speed chase, Uhde drove the truck into a ditch and field, causing it to burst into flames. Officers found Uhde hiding near a log after he was tracked by a police K9.

Records show Uhde was released on community supervision in 2015, but was returned to prison in 2019. He was released from prison on April 14, 2020, and was under community supervision at the time of the shooting.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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MAUSTON  This small Juneau County community knew retired Judge John Roemer as a man who delivered food baskets to people on Christmas and pies at Thanksgiving.

When Fourth of July fireworks came around, he stood at the entrance to his churchs parking lot to greet those who came to see the show at the best spot in town, recounted Pastor Chip Wilke.

And when Roemers wife developed fatal cancer, he retired from the bench in 2017 to care for her.

He was about just trying to reach the lost with the good news that Jesus is their savior from sin, said Wilke, who has been a pastor at Saint Pauls Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mauston since 2016.

He was just a man very involved in the community, very involved in the church and dearly loved by a lot, Wilke remarked.

A circuit judge in Juneau County for 13 years and retired lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserves, Roemer, 68, was killed by a gunman in the early morning hours Friday at the judges home in the town of Lisbon, about four miles north of Mauston, authorities said.

On Saturday, the Wisconsin Department of Justice identified the gunman as 56-year-old Douglas K. Uhde.

Uhde, who had a list of other government officials he wanted to target, had been sentenced to six years in prison by Roemer in 2005 for armed robbery and other weapons charges.

Roemers brazen killing has rocked the tiny rural community he called home for so many years. Mauston, the county seat, has about 4,500 residents, though its just a quick northwest drive down Interstate 90 from the leisure and novelty attractions of Wisconsin Dells and Lake Delton.

A real shock

Talk of Roemers death floated Saturday morning throughout Maustons storefronts and weekend farmers market, held steps away from the Juneau County Courthouse where the judge once presided.

Its kind of a real shock, said Timothy Cottingham, chair of the Juneau County Board.

A former bailiff and near 30-year veteran of the Juneau County Sheriffs Office, Cottingham knew Roemer for years. Their working and personal relationship extended throughout Roemers career path from public defender and assistant district attorney to the bench.

He treated everybody real fair and equal, Cottingham said. It seems like he would give the benefit of the doubt and try to help people out as much as he could.

He did have quite a sense of humor too, Cottingham recalled. Even in court, he had people laughing and stuff, helped take the tension away.

In the courtroom, Roemer went out of his way to explain sentencing decisions to defendants and why a judge has to follow the law, remembers Ray Feldman, a county supervisor who used to work with Roemer at a private law firm in the 1980s.

He so often would say he hoped they would learn from their mistakes, Feldman said.

Sort of the idealist all the way through his career, Feldman said.

A rare crime

Until Roemers killing, violent crimes in Juneau County were few are far between.

Cottingham said the county saw three homicides in all his years on the force, though there was a pair of drug-related murders in recent years.

He doesnt recall any significant threats made against judges or attorneys in the local legal system.

Its a typical rural town in Wisconsin, Cottingham said. Its tight-knit. All the people do know each other and are extremely friendly.

That tranquility was shattered on Friday, when Uhde entered Roemers house in the 6100 block of Woodland Hills Road around 6:30 a.m. and fired two shots, the Department of Justice said.

Another person in the residence, whom a neighbor identified as one of Roemers sons, fled to a nearby home and alerted law enforcement.

A Juneau County tactical team responded to the scene and tried to negotiate with Uhde, the Justice Department said. Authorities entered the home around 10:30 a.m. to find Roemer dead and Uhde in the basement with a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Uhde was hospitalized in critical condition Saturday, according to the Justice Department.

State troopers still had the entrance to Roemers neighborhood blocked off on Saturday. Roemers white home, which sits just off Highway 58, had police tape lining its exterior and yard.

On the bench

Uhdes 2005 conviction, presided over by Roemer, came at the end of a lengthy series of court fights in the case, which began with an incident in August 2001. Uhde pleaded no contest in 2002, but then successfully got his plea withdrawn on appeal, according to online court records.

Roemer then reset his cash bail at $15,000 but reduced it to $10,000. Uhde represented himself in the case and was again convicted.

Apart from his involvement with Uhde, Roemer presided over high-profile cases in his years on the bench.

In 2017, he presided over a case in which a Lyndon Station village president had been convicted of 22 counts of sexual assault. Roemer ruled that a juror was not credible and granted Donald Coughlin a new trial, in which he was again convicted.

In 2009, Roemer sentenced a former Necedah religious leader for hiding the corpse of a follower who died from natural causes on her toilet.

Fond memories

In a statement on Saturday, Wisconsin Supreme Court Chief Justice Annette Kingsland Ziegler hailed Roemer as a judge who made a tremendous difference in the lives of many people in Juneau County and elsewhere in the state.

The states judicial family is shocked and saddened by this tragedy, Ziegler said.

In his retirement letter to former Gov. Scott Walker, Roemer gave his thanks to the citizens of Juneau County and Wisconsin for giving me this precious opportunity to serve as their circuit court judge.

It is a responsibility that, at times, I can barely fathom, Roemer wrote.

Wilke, Roemers pastor, was left remembering the judge as he prepared to officiate a wedding at his church on Saturday.

Getting emotional, Wilke detailed how he met with Roemers two sons after Fridays tragedy, assuring them their father was now in heaven.

Theyre confident that hes with Jesus, too, Wilke said.

Even as a judge thats dealt with things all his life, the tragedies, he still sees the grace of God in everything, the pastor said.

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PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (AP)  Early indications showed Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sens ruling party headed for victory in local elections Sunday as people voted in large numbers for the first time since a 2018 general election that was widely criticized as unfair.

Hun Sens Cambodian Peoples Party was virtually certain to capture the lions share of 11,622 council seats being contested in 1,652 communes throughout the country. The party has held an iron grip on power for decades, and has the huge advantage of controlling almost every local government. Its opponents are less organized, with much fewer resources and have complained of intimidation and threats.

The preliminary results were set to be announced commune by commune by state media on Sunday night, but an aggregated official tally wont be given until June 26.

Several governors quoted by the Fresh News website, which is close to the government, said unofficial results showed Hun Sens party winning most council races in their provinces. Earlier, news websites that broadcast counts from polling stations had generally put the ruling party in the lead.

Turnout was more than 77% out of 9.2 million registered voters, said Prach Chan, chairman of the National Election Committee.

He said the election was free and fair, without intimidation or threats, contrary to the U.N. Human Rights Office in Geneva that last week said there has been a pattern of threats, intimidation and obstruction targeting opposition candidates.

Hun Sens party was the only one to field candidates in all the communes. Its most serious challenger was the Candlelight Party, which was rallying opposition supporters.

Hun Sen, an authoritarian ruler in a nominally democratic state, has held power for 37 years. He and his wife cast their ballots Sunday morning in Kandal province near the capital, Phnom Penh. Hun Sen has said he intends to stay in office until 2028 and has endorsed one of his sons to succeed him.

The local elections are held a year ahead of the general election, and are regarded as a test of the parties strength.

In the last communal elections in 2017, the main opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party made an unexpectedly strong showing, which led Hun Sens government to crack down on it as well as independent media. The party was dissolved by the Supreme Court on a charge of treason, widely seen as politically motivated, and the free press was driven out of business or cowed into submission.

Without the Cambodian National Rescue Party on the ballot, Hun Sens party was assured of victory in the general election the following year, taking all the seats in the National Assembly.

Several Western nations imposed sanctions on the government after judging the 2018 election neither free nor fair. The harshest measure came from the European Union, which withdrew some preferential trading privileges.

The dissolved Cambodia National Rescue Party, whose sitting members were also ousted from their political posts, remains banned, with most of its top leaders in exile.

The Candlelight Party sought to take its place though it had to hurriedly organize and came under pressure from the government.

The original Candlelight Party was founded in 1995 by Sam Rainsy, the main political rival of Hun Sen, and later folded into the Cambodia National Rescue Party.

Sam Rainsy, faced with legal harassment, went into self-exile in France, and the co-founder of the Cambodia National Rescue Party, Kem Sokha, is currently being tried on a thinly supported treason charge.

Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
The World Health Organization declared a pandemic on March 11, 2020. The coronavirus had spread to at least 114 countries by then, and  though nobody knew it at the time  was already in Idaho. That was 814 days ago, and the WHO has yet to declare the pandemic over. But daily life in Idaho and much of the U.S. has resumed a kind of pre-pandemic status quo. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shifted its focus away from trying to keep people from catching COVID-19, toward keeping hospitals from being crushed by the disease.
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has survived a no-confidence vote, securing enough support from his party to remain in office despite a rebellion that will likely weaken him as a leader and casts a shadow over his future. Known for his ability to shrug off scandals, the charismatic leader has struggled to turn the page on revelations that he and his staff repeatedly held boozy parties that flouted the COVID-19 restrictions they imposed on others. Support among his fellow Conservative lawmakers has weakened as some see the leader, renowned for his ability to connect with voters, increasingly as a liability rather than an asset in elections.
Perhaps you heard about Amber Heard this week.

Okay, that was a joke. Of course youve heard about her. Over the last few weeks weve all had an earful (and eyeful) of both Heard and her former husband, Johnny Depp.

As everyone within the reach of TikTok  which is basically everyone on Earth  knows, Capn Jack succeeded in throwing more mud at Amber than she did at him, and in the process won his defamation case against her.

I am not writing to take issue with what the court testimony revealed. Abuse is ugly and cruel in every situation. There are no excuses. Abusers should be held accountable for the wounds they cause.

No, Im not tolerating or making light of the seriousness of the alleged actions of both parties.

Im mocking the circus that surrounded it.

But mine is a minority mocking. Like me, you saw the circus outside the courtroom. You watched women waving their placards and shouting their slogans. Youve followed the courtroom clips everywhere from TikTok to NPR, and from the National Enquirer to the New York Times.

This has been a week that has caused me to wonder if, after all these years, I should just admit that I dont get it, and I never will get it.

Because its stupid. All of it  the exploitation of a former couples misery for ratings, the daily opinion tracker reports of whos winning and whos losing, the gleeful public piling-on  all of it is stupid.

Was I interested in the case? Mildly. I think that the more exposure given to abuse, the sooner it will fall out of fashion as a manly way to settle a disagreement. So go ahead and give the Depp case a few column inches below the fold. A thirty-second voice over video for the nightly news. A moments pause to realize that there but for the grace of God, etc.

But instead, we saw all those people on the sidewalk acting as if it was their best friend on the stand, or a family member. They displayed the emotions of individuals personally connected to and invested in the trial of people who neither know nor care about them. We watched a serious trial, staged in a circus tent, surrounded by shouting clowns.

And, if the social media views are any indication (and they are), we liked it.

The morning after the verdict was read, Heards attorney, Elaine Bredehoft, appeared on NBCs Today Show. She said the social media hysteria influenced the verdict. Her quote: It was like the Roman Colosseum, you know? I was against cameras in the courtroomI argued against it because of the sensitive nature of this. But it made it a zoo.

But heres what bothered me the most. In that same interview, Bredehoft described Heards immediate reaction to the verdict. One of the first things she said is I am so sorry to all those women out there. This is a setback for all women in and outside the courtroom.

Okay, I get itexcept that I dont. This particular case will not suddenly make marital abuse okay. After all, the case wasnt even about abuse. It was about whether Heard defamed Depp in a 2018 op-ed in the New York Times by insinuating he had previously abused her, after she and Depp had both agreed, as part of their earlier divorce settlement, not to discuss any aspect of their marriage in the media. The charge was defamation, not abuse.

Nevertheless, whenever the white-hot spotlight of social media suddenly shines on court proceedings involving a major movie star, subtleties are obliterated.

Was the Depp/Heard trial a referendum on the evils of marital abuse, or was it the grasping efforts of a mid-talent female actor trying to gold dig her way to media-darling victimhood, with a nice paycheck to boot?

It was neither  or at least it wasnt at the beginning. But by the time the jury verdict arrived, wed all turned it into just another side show.

Well, never mind. In a month well forget all about it, exceptdid you notice? Johnnys putting on a little weight. Youd think with all that money

Chris Huston is an author and award-winning columnist living in the Magic Valley. Connect with Chris on Facebook and Instagram at Chris Huston-Finding My Way and at chrishustonauthor.com.

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Todays six-member supermajority on the Supreme Court has surrendered all claim to being an impartial moral force for blind justice. Instead, the GOPs small network of corporate and right-wing operatives has painstakingly fabricated and weaponized the court as its own political oligarchy. In only a couple of decades, backed by a few billionaires, these anti-democracy zealots have incrementally been imposing on America an extremist political agenda that they could not win at the ballot box.

Their Eureka! moment  the startling development that opened the eyes of the moneyed elites and ideologues to the raw power they could grab by politicizing the judiciary  was the Supreme Courts illegitimate Bush v. Gore ruling. In December 2000, that five-person GOP majority abruptly crashed Floridas presidential vote count, storming over both democracy and judicial propriety to install George W. in the White House. Appalled, dissenting Justice John Paul Stevens mocked the five, pointing out that while their trumped-up ruling didnt really establish whether Bush or Gore won, it did make the loser pellucidly clear: It is the Nations confidence in the judge as an impartial guardian of the rule of law.

One of those who helped run the courts blatant political power play over the Florida vote was an obscure corporate lawyer who had long been an aggressive, behind-the-scenes Republican monkey-wrencher pushing to restrict voting by people of color, poor people and other Democratic constituencies: John Roberts. Shortly thereafter  surprise!  Bush elevated Roberts to a top federal judgeship, and just two years later moved him on up to Americas ultimate judicial power spot, chief justice of the Supremes.

From this lofty roost, Roberts has orchestrated an expansive political docket for the court, handpicking cases created and advanced by far-right interests. He then has manipulated precedents and procedures to produce convoluted decisions that impose plutocratic, autocratic and theocratic domination over the American peoples democratic rights and aspirations.

To date, Chief Justice John Roberts has cobbled together slim, all-Republican majorities to hand down more than 80 blatantly partisan rulings, fabricating law that We the People have never voted for and dont support.

Its bizarre to have the Supreme Court, the least democratic branch of government, professing to speak in the name of The People. Even as its right-wing core is grinding out an unprecedented level of partisan judgments that We the People clearly do not want  and will not support. Take that abortion right, for example, that the court  now freshly packed with former President Donald Trumps trio of Amy Coney Barrett, Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh  will likely move this year to nullify. If they do, it will be a pricey victory for those politicos, because they are imperiously thrusting their own agenda over the overwhelming will of the people.

Helloooo, your honors: Some six in 10 Americans have consistently and passionately affirmed that these deeply personal and emotional decisions belong to the women affected, not to unelected ideologues and political opportunists. A court so far out of touch with the people is marching forth with no cloak of legitimacy, squandering its authority to be taken seriously, much less obeyed.

Not only has this band of self-righteous judges been punching their reactionary social biases into court-made law, but theyve also been rubber-stamping cases to enthrone corporate supremacy over us and our environment. Throughout Roberts reign, the court has sided with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce (the chief front group for U.S. corporate giants) a staggering 70% of the time! Indeed, three members  Roberts, Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas  now rank among the five most corporate-friendly justices of the past 75 years.

This aggressive corporatization and partisanship has lifted the Supremes to a new level of public awareness  much to their chagrin. In a Quinnipiac survey last November, more than six in 10 Americans said they believe Supreme Court decisions are motivated primarily by politics, not by unbiased readings of the law. Rather than instilling a modicum of humility, however, the bad reviews have stirred embarrassing outbursts of judicial pique and vitriol. Alito, for example, whined loudly last year that critics are engaged in unprecedented efforts to intimidate the court or damage it as an independent institution. Likewise, Barrett was so stung that she felt it necessary to go public with a strained denial, pleading for the public to believe that this court is not comprised of a bunch of partisan hacks.

Note to petulant judges: If you dont want to be called a partisan hack, stop being one. And, Brother Alito, its not critics whore damaging the third branch as an independent institution, its your obsequious fealty to corporate interests and your knee-jerk allegiance to extremist ideologues. You can wear the robe, but you cant hide in it.

Populist author, public speaker and radio commentator Jim Hightower writes The Hightower Lowdown, a monthly newsletter chronicling the ongoing fights by Americas ordinary people against rule by plutocratic elites. Sign up at HightowerLowdown.org.

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About four dozen people participated in the Say No to Drugs and Stop the Violence Walkathon Saturday in uptown Martinsville, starting at the Big Chair parking lot and ending at Baldwin Park.

Were just trying to reach out to the community and let them know were concerned, said Anthea Barbour, one of the organizers and the owner of Anns Kitchen.

The police cant do it all by themselves, Reach Out Apostolic Church Pastor Lorenzo Hall said. He added that the walk is intended to bring awareness to the area that we have a serious problem and something needs to be done about it.

My life, my family, my home is here, Hall said. We need to come more together as a community and provide a voice about being more kind and gentle as opposed to the violence that has been so prevalent.

The event was organized by Streetribe Design owner Alexir Hairston, LaDonna M. Hairston from Performance 276, First Baptist Church East Martinsville Pastor Charles Whitfield, Irisburg District Supervisor Garrett L. Dillard, Kuntry Boyz Tires & More owner Tamon Nibblet, Vice Mayor Jennifer Bowles, Boys and Girls Club of the Blue Ridge Executive Director Joanie Petty, Barbour and Hall.

This is important, Joanie Petty said. The purpose of the walk is to bring awareness around recovery from alcohol and drug abuse and to promote recovery, mental health and healing in our community, she added.

Petty said that walks like this have been done before in the area, but not through uptown as this one was.

People want to show off because its important, she said. The walk was visible throughout uptown Martinsville with the signs carried by walkers clearly showing the cause for which they were walking.

Petty said that this walk is important specifically in this area because of the high rates of overdose and the effect they have on our community. Were in a place where weve seen acts of violence that have taken lives, she said.

Without the efforts to make this area safer and healthier, all the revitalization efforts that are being undertaken presently will be useless, she added.

She said that the event was spearheaded by organizations around Martinsville but also by certain families which have had experiences and been affected by drug abuse and violence.

There were multiple members of the Martinsville City Police Department out for the walk in support of the cause, Petty said, showing their support of the cause that affects their lives every time they are at work.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Blue Ridge made signs for the walkers to carry through Martinsville to showcase the cause of the walk. Some of the signs said: Drug abuse hurts; Recovery is a lifetime choice; Create peacestop violence; We are all a work in progress; Love your neighbor; Be the change; Love is love; Hope; End gun violence; Speak; We want to spread love; Mental health matters and Love.

After the walk, which ended at Baldwin Memorial Park, speakers shared their stories with the crowd: Kay Moorehead, to talk about her son who had overdosed; Kaleshia Payne, to talk about her son who was killed at a club in Danville; Keith Owens of Piedmont Community Services, providing literature about the cause; and Christopher Wilson, who had been pardoned after being in prison for 18 years.

There was also music from Small Town Orchestra, a car show and free food and beverages offered.

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As a gastrointestinal medical oncologist, I can think of nothing better for my patients than being able to offer them a drug that is more effective, less toxic and avoids surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation; that day can't come soon enough, said Hanna Sanoff, MD, MPH. Credit: UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center

UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center's Hanna K. Sanoff, MD, MPH, is the author of a viewpoint in the New England Journal of Medicine that provides a perspective on the evolving treatment of rectal cancer. She offers prospects for future treatment of the disease in light of encouraging findings from a study published in the journal that found the immunotherapy drug dostarlimab was especially effective in a phase II clinical trial of a dozen patients with a subtype of rectal cancer.

Approximately 5-10% of rectal cancers are molecularly characterized as being deficient in mismatch repair enzymes (dMMR). These cancers tend to be less responsive to chemotherapy and radiation, which increases the chance that surgical treatment is necessary. Unfortunately, surgery can result in notable health consequences, including nerve damage, infertility, and bowel and sexual dysfunction.

"Over 45,000 people in the United States were diagnosed with rectal cancer last year, and many of those cases were in people under the age of 65. Historical treatment of the disease has included radiation, surgery and chemotherapy, which can be debilitating despite its curative potential, pointing to the need for better and more effective treatments that can prolong longevity while maintaining quality of life," said Sanoff, who is the quality and innovation officer of the North Carolina Cancer Hospital and professor in the UNC School of Medicine Division of Oncology. "These initial findings of the remarkable benefit with the use of dostarlimab are very encouraging but also need to be viewed with caution until the results can be replicated in a larger and more diverse population."

Sanoff also cautioned that little is known about how long the benefit of the drug will last or whether it will be curative in the long-term. Patients in this trial have only been observed for six months to two years so far.

"The responses in these first 12 of a planned-for 30 patients in the trial were remarkable and exceed what we would expect with the standard chemotherapy plus radiation," Sanoff said. "Although quality of life measures have not been reported yet, it's encouraging that some of the most difficult symptoms, such as pain and bleeding, all resolved with the use of dostarlimab."

Sanoff noted there are other immunotherapy drugs that could also be tested against this form of rectal cancer. "As a gastrointestinal medical oncologist, I can think of nothing better for my patients than being able to offer them a drug that is more effective, less toxic and avoids surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation; that day can't come soon enough," she said.

Explore further Consumer Health: Treating colorectal cancer

More information: Shifting Rectal Cancer Paradigms for the Better, New England Journal of Medicine (2022). Journal information: New England Journal of Medicine Shifting Rectal Cancer Paradigms for the Better,(2022).
Theresa Quillen, a day-care worker for the last 20 years in Philadelphia, deeply loves children -- even the one who sent her to the hospital.

The 3-year-old boy didn't mean to hurt her. He just happened to be standing around when another 3-year-old was looking for someone to punch. Quillen rushed to pull the boy out of harm's way. "As soon as I picked him up, I felt a sharp pain in my back," she says. "Within a few days, I couldn't even get out of bed."

Daycare centers may not seem like dangerous places. After all, the only noxious fumes come from the diaper pail, and the walls are covered with pictures of Big Bird and Winnie the Pooh, not biohazard stickers or high voltage signs.

But as Quillen or any other veteran of the business can attest, taking care of young children can be hard, stressful, and, yes, risky work. Every day, teachers and aides carry heavy loads, many of which are squirming or screaming. They see more runny noses and cases of pinkeye (conjunctivitis) than the average pediatrician does. They run themselves ragged trying to keep up with several bundles of energy at a time. And most of them endure it all despite lousy pay (median income in 2006: $17,630) and no health insurance.

Plight of workers

For many years, the plight of daycare workers went largely unnoticed, but not anymore. Job-safety experts are beginning to document the hazards of the work and are finding ways to prevent illness and injuries. On another front, unions and other organizations are pushing for higher salaries and health benefits for daycare workers. "We all care so much for children, why can't we care for the people who are watching over them?" asks Vickie Milhouse, long-time daycare worker and President of the United Child Care Union in Philadelphia.

Any gameplan for protecting daycare workers has to start with germs. Daycare centers are notorious breeding grounds for infectious diseases, and workers can be just as vulnerable as children. The journal Occupational Medicine published a checklist of diseases that can come with the job, including chicken pox, mumps, influenza, tuberculosis, meningitis, strep throat, and infections of cytomegalovirus (CMV), a virus that can cause severe birth defects when contracted by pregnant women.

Workers who frequently change dirty diapers can also catch hepatitis A and intestinal ailments such as ringworm and giardia.

Good hygiene can stop many of these diseases cold. By washing their hands frequently and by keeping changing stations and eating areas clean, workers can dramatically improve their chances of staying healthy -- as well as those of their small charges. (When changing diapers, for example, workers should wear disposable gloves and wash their hands immediately afterwards.) For extra protection, they should also consider hepatitis A vaccinations and yearly flu shots.

Of course, daycare workers would also be safer if more parents kept their sick kids at home. That's not likely to happen, so it pays to be vigilant, Milhouse says. "We kept a sharp eye out as kids come in," she says. "If we thought we saw something out of the ordinary, we'd call the parents."

Falls and sprains

With all of those sniffling children around, daycare workers may be surprised to learn that injuries are almost as common as illnesses in their profession. In 2007, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported more than 14,000 on-the-job injuries.

Most of those injuries aren't exactly mysteries. It's easy to fall when chasing a 2-year-old through a minefield of toys, and it's easy to strain something when crawling around on the floor. And as Quillen found out, it's also easy to throw out a back when lifting a wriggling 30-pound package. A survey of childcare workers in Minnesota found that half of all back injuries occurred while lifting children.

There's no good way to make kids lighter and less wiggly, but daycare workers can still prevent many injuries. One obvious step is to pick up toys and other clutter from underfoot. According to a recent article in the Journal of Occupational Medicine, you can also protect yourselves by adjusting cribs and changing tables to comfortable heights and learning proper lifting techniques.

When picking up a preschooler, for example, position yourself in front of your small charge, with one foot slightly in front for balance. Then slowly squat down, bending your knees rather than your back and stomach. Use both your hands to lift the child and bring him or her close to your body, remembering to lift with your legs, not your back. Afterward, set the child down gently by squatting down and bending your legs. Of course, physical strain isn't the only danger when wrangling a roomful of kids. "It's an emotionally exhausting job," Milhouse says. Keeping children safe, happy, and generally under control takes constant vigilance, she says.

The real source of stress

But when daycare workers complain about their jobs, they rarely mention kids. The real source of stress, Milhouse says, is a chronic shortage of respect and dignity. This is evident when some parents are chronically late picking up their children, forcing the daycare workers to put their lives on hold until they breeze in the door. "Few people understand the work we do," she says. "We're not babysitters. We're professionals, and we teach children through play." The lack of respect is most obvious when daycare workers pick up their paychecks, she says.

Hoping to win back some of that respect, Milhouse helped form the United Child Care Providers Union (UCCPU) in 1998. As the union ranks grow, more and more daycare workers will get the salaries and health benefits they deserve, she says. Of course, not every center can afford to pay union wages, and not every worker has the chance to join the UCCPU or any other union. For them, daycare work may continue to be unrewarding -- at least when it comes to money.

Further Resources

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health

800/232-4636

Occupational Safety and Health Administration

800/321-6742

American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees

References

American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees/. http://www.afscme.org

The ABCs of Safe and Healthy Child Care. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Bureau of Labor Statistics. Child Care Workers. August 2006. http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos170.htm

American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees. Directory. http://www.afscme.org/directory/259_679.cfm

Bureau of Labor Statistics. Industry X Selected Case Characteristics -- 2007 (Table R-1 and Table 1). http://www.bls.gov/iif/oshcdnew.htm

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Originally published on consumer.healthday.com, part of the TownNews Content Exchange.
SUNDAY, June 5, 2022 (HealthDay News) -- A skin biopsy is often used to diagnose skin cancer and other skin conditions.

It involves the removal of a small amount of skin, which is examined under a microscope. Afterwards, you'll need to look after the biopsy location to make sure it heals properly.

"Your dermatologist will treat the small wound from the skin biopsy during your visit," said dermatologist Dr. Rajiv Nijhawan, an associate professor at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas.

"Continuing to care for your wound once you get home is important because it will help it heal, reduce scarring and decrease chances of infection," he said in an American Academy of Dermatology news release.

Wash your hands before touching your wound. To care for your wound, gently wash the biopsy area with mild soap and water. Rinse thoroughly and gently pat dry with a clean wash cloth.

To keep the wound moist and help it heal faster, apply petroleum jelly from a squeeze tube to the wound. Then cover the wound with an adhesive bandage or sterile gauze and paper tape. Do this daily for as long as your dermatologist recommends.

Do not use topical antibiotics unless advised by your dermatologist because they can cause allergic reactions.

Applying petroleum jelly can also help relieve itching as the wound heals. Itching can also be a sign of an allergic reaction or skin irritation. Cover the wound with a nonstick pad and paper tape instead of an adhesive bandage.

If your wound starts bleeding, apply firm and steady pressure with a sterile gauze pad for 20 minutes. Call your dermatologist's office if your wound is still bleeding after 20 minutes.

If you have pain at the biopsy site, take acetaminophen or place an ice pack over the bandage to relieve swelling.

Reduce scarring by protecting the biopsy site from the sun. Cover it with sun-protective clothing, apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and stay in the shade when possible.

"If you have any signs of infection such as worsening pain, increased swelling, warmth or fever, contact your dermatologist," Nijhawan said.

More information

For more on skin biopsy, see the U.S. National Library of Medicine.

SOURCE: American Academy of Dermatology, news release, May 31, 2022

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Originally published on consumer.healthday.com, part of the TownNews Content Exchange.
Just over a year ago while bird hunting in Montana, we had two of our bird dogs caught in snares set for coyotes. We saw the first dog get snared, and worked to free it, not realizing our second dog had also been snared while trying to return to us, and died before we could get to him. We were legally hunting on public land, and there was no way to know these lethal snares were present in the area.

In our investigations of how such distressing events might be avoided in the future, we discovered two disturbing facts. First, the deadliest trap for dogs recreating with their people on public lands, is a coyote snare. They are unmarked, baited, and as we discovered, can also be of a type known as a power-snare which requires special aircraft cable cutting pliers be carried at all times to quickly release a dog.

Second, we discovered that coyote trappers are unregulated in Montana, with the only requirement being they attach a name tag to the trap or snare. This is because coyotes are considered a predatory animal in Montana and as such fall under the jurisdiction of the Department of Livestock; not FWP and the Fish and Wildlife Commission, as most Montanans believe.

Those trapping and snaring coyotes on public lands are not required to have a license, do not have to report any incidental (non-target species) captures, and have no regulations concerning when, where, how, or what kind of trap or snare is used. The lack of any regulations is apparently designed to allow considerable leeway in addressing predation on livestock but lack of regulation, when applied broadly across public lands, is an unacceptable threat to other recreational users of these lands.

For example, FWP licensed trappers are required to observe set-back restrictions along some types of public roads and trails, which coyote trappers can currently ignore. Licensed trappers have designated allowable seasons for furbearer species while coyote trappers can trap or snare at any time.

What can be done to reduce the potential for harm to legal users of public lands from the consequences of coyote trapping? To fully address this problem requires changes to existing state laws, by requiring all trapping activities fall under the laws and regulations administered by FWP.

To date, the Montana Legislature has not been forthcoming in addressing these long-standing concerns and instead, based on our experience, strongly caters to the interests of trappers and the livestock industry. This is not just a problem for Montana, as other western states with considerable public lands also do not adequately regulate coyote trapping.

As outdoor recreation increases, It is time public land agencies, such as the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, recognize the inadequacy of the states response and address the concerns of affected user groups. They should also be concerned with any type of trapping that is not being supervised by wildlife management professionals for impacts to other species and resources.

Wildlife management agencies and organizations, such as the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies and The Wildlife Society, express support for regulated trapping. Consistent with this, public land agencies should require all trapping activities on public lands be regulated by a state wildlife management agency and limited to licensed trappers.

While these recommendations do not address all of the potential tragic outcomes related to this issue, it would at least provide some common-sense guidance for how trapping on public lands should be conducted, as well as allow for public input to a very controversial issue in Montana.

Carolyn Mehl and Jonathan Haufler, are Certified Wildlife Biologists. Jonathan Haufler is also a past-president of The Wildlife Society, the International organization for wildlife management professionals.

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Imagine learning that today your child or grandchild tried to run from an armed shooter at school in your small Montana town, but tragically did not escape. Imagine their terror as they saw their teacher and friends murdered. Imagine them calling out to you in horror, wearing a shirt you bought them for their birthday. Visualize their teachers sacrificing themselves for your child. Imagine the surviving children traumatized by the carnage.

Imagine that your anger and grief is met with thoughts and prayers and people saying their hearts break for you. You hope change will come, other families will not feel this devastation, and finally something will be done to face down gun violence. You are told this is not the time to get political, teachers should be armed, the Second Amendment is paramount, and mental illness is the sole cause of violence. Now that you know how it feels to be part of the 300 mass shootings this year in the U.S., you wonder which of the 400,000,000 guns in circulation killed your child. You hope friends and politicians will stand with you.

Time has passed, and media coverage has waned. Promises were made to do something this time, but federal legislation fails, and Montana actually relaxes laws. Imagine the opposition to background checks and the smallest concession to gun control, mocking of gun buyback programs, politicians using guns to appeal to their base, social media slowness to report threats, Second Amendment speeches, politicians taking gun lobby funding, and record gun sales. Your grief is multiplied as the next school shooting takes the focus off your child.

Now imagine a different world in which children do not die needlessly to protect adults unlimited rights to be armed. The 90% of Americans who support sensible laws speak out, others search their souls and as a result place a higher value on the lives of innocent children than on adults unlimited rights to arms, and politicians do not vote to decrease mental health funding. Those who fought changes, seeing themselves as victims, soften their hearts and see their responsibility to protect the innocent, the real victims. People question their beliefs that more guns are the answer to violence. The country comes together just long enough to lay down their arms, both literally and verbally, resulting in changes that will protect us all. What role would you play to make this happen? What inconveniences could you set aside to protect the vulnerable? What might soul-searching reveal about your values? Is a safer country even possible?

If you believe it is, do something to change the status quo. Learn which politicians take money from the gun lobby, voted to support mental health care, and are willing to talk to those with whom they disagree. Make your views known and join forces with those working toward a safer world. Imagining such a world is the first step. Actual change requires us all to put our responsibilities to our children and families first.

Cindy Garthwait is a licensed clinical social worker and Professor Emeritus in the School of Social Work at the University of Montana who taught undergraduate and graduate students for 28 years, practiced social work in the areas of mental health, substance abuse, gerontology, and interpersonal violence.

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Seventy-five years ago today, on June 5, 1947, Secretary of State and five-star General George C. Marshall delivered a momentous speech at Harvard University. In it, he described the destruction of Europes cities, factories, mines and railroads during World War II and the less visible dislocation of the entire fabric of European economy.

With famine threatening much of Europes population; the Soviet Union expanding its authoritarian control of Eastern Europe; and communist parties growing in popularity in some Western European countries, a sense of crisis led Marshall to call for massive economic assistance to help Europe recover from its wartime devastation.

But, Marshall added, The initiative, I think, must come from Europe. He wisely reasoned that for a program of reconstruction to succeed in the recently war-torn and divided region, recipient countries themselves should take the lead in determining how American aid could be used most effectively  with America maintaining a strong voice in the matter.

The Economic Recovery Act of 1948, commonly called the Marshall Plan, promised generous aid for four years  roughly $160 billion today  but only on condition that members of a newly created Organization for European Economic Cooperation agreed unanimously on the allocation of funds to member countries.

Requiring countries to cooperate in this concrete way helped them abandon the prevalent prewar practice of dealing with each other primarily in bilateral and preferential ways, which had acted to divide countries and also prevented them from achieving greater shared prosperity.

Although the Soviet Union was invited to take part, its leaders not only refused to participate, but they also banned participation by Eastern European members of the Soviet bloc. Their refusal reinforced the Cold War division of Europe into communist and democratic, market-oriented camps.

After the Marshall Plan was launched, far-sighted European leaders took other important initiatives to bind former enemies together. For example, the European Coal and Steel Community, created in 1952, united France, West Germany, and four other countries in an integrated market, preventing one country from secretly ramping up production of this crucial war-making materiel.

But by promoting a habit of cooperation and in helping break down barriers to the flow of trade and capital, the Marshall Plan planted the seeds of postwar European recovery and integration. It contributed directly or indirectly to the creation of institutions that continue to play roles today  most notably the European Union and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, successor to the Organization for European Economic Cooperation.

The Marshall Plan also benefited America by expanding markets for our goods and services and by supporting the establishment of democratic governments in countries that still serve as trusted allies and partners.

Of course, economic assistance wasnt the only factor contributing to Europes rapid revitalization and more cooperative approach. Creation of NATO in 1949 provided important security guarantees to countries concerned about Soviet encroachment and a resurgent Germany.

The North Atlantic Treaty provided that an attack on one member country would be considered an attack on all  and crucially extended Americas defenses and nuclear umbrella to all of Western Europe. America also boosted military assistance to help strengthen Western European defenses.

The Europe that emerged from the ashes of World War II experienced increasing prosperity, broad political stability, and, for many years, the longest period of peace in its history. Although there have been a number of deadly military conflicts in Europe in recent decades  from the Bosnian War to Russias repeated seizure of territories in Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine  Europe generally has enjoyed peace.

Were now witnessing a devastating shattering of that peace by Russias unprovoked war against Ukraine, the scale of which is reminiscent of World War IIs widespread and indiscriminant destruction.

Looking to a postwar future, a number of leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European Council President Charles Michel, have called for a new Marshall Plan for Ukraine. There is no doubt that Ukraine will require vast amounts of aid and assistance to rebuild its cities, factories, roads and other infrastructure. And hopefully such aid will be forthcoming.

But Marshall Plan scholar Benn Steil argues that Ukraines proximity to Russia, which is adamantly opposed to Ukrainian membership in NATO, substantially reduces the prospect that aid and investment can help Ukraine replicate the experience of European Marshall aid recipients. Without the security component, he asserts, economic assistance alone will not propel Ukraine into the ranks of stable, prosperous and democratic nations. Sadly, I believe he may be right.

Joanna Shelton was Deputy Secretary General of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) in Paris; held senior positions in the executive branch and Congress in Washington, D.C.; and teaches occasionally at the University of Montana.

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Ravalli County has the greatest risk of wildfire in Montana, with six communities in the top 10 across the state that are most vulnerable. To protect our communities, watersheds and wildlife habitat, it is imperative for the U.S. Forest Service to thin overstocked and fire-prone forests.

The Bitterroot National Forest is rising to the challenge with its proposed Bitterroot Front Project, which fits squarely with the Biden Administration 10-year strategy to address wildfire risks in key "firesheds" throughout the country.

I can tell you personally after spending several days looking at the area, if fuels reduction and thinnings arent done, there will be more devastating wildfires like we have seen during the last decade.

A large portion of the project areas falls within the local Community Wildfire Protection Zone and Wildland Urban Interface. Historic fire regime data indicate that much of the area has not experienced fire in decades, suggesting that communities are on borrowed time before the next big fire ignites.

That's why the Bitterroot Front Project is necessary to help assure that future wildfire suppression operations are successful in protecting lives, public and private property and critical infrastructure. The National Forest has correctly determined that mechanical treatments are needed in areas that are choked with dense vegetation, before prescribed or low-intensity fire can be safely applied to manage forest fuels in the future.

In addition to reducing the heavy fuels that contribute to high-intensity wildfires, the Bitterroot Front Project will promote greater landscape resilience to major disturbances including insects and disease by improving forest structure and composition to more natural conditions. The project will also help enhance wildlife habitat forage conditions for elk and other big game species as well as breeding and rearing habitat for songbirds.

The project contributes to the local economy and forest products industry through fuels reduction activities and timber production. The 55,133 acres within the project area that the Forest Service has identified as suitable for commercial harvest will greatly help sustain the existing milling infrastructure. Montanas forest products industry is one of the largest components of manufacturing in the state and employs roughly 7,700 workers earning about $335 million annually.

Without the raw material sold by the Forest Service, Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, and private landowners, these mills would be unable to produce the amount of wood products that the citizens of this country demand. Without this material, the industry would also be unable to run their mills at capacities that keep their employees working, which is crucial to the health of the communities where they operate.

The Stevensville Ranger Station is current accepting comments as it continues to develop the project. This is an important opportunity for citizens to make suggestions that can help make this important project even better.

In addition to getting the thinning work done, we believe an intact road system is critical to the management of Forest Service land. A significant factor contributing to increased fire activity in the region is the decreasing road access to our federal lands. Well-maintained forest roads give firefighters better and safer opportunities to attack and extinguish wildfires before they can gain strength and threaten nearby communities. Roads are also important for forest management activities as well as for recreation and hunting.

The Bitterroot National Forest deserves praise for leveraging opportunities under the Biden Administrations 10-year wildfire strategy to implement treatments in this fireshed. After the project is implemented, we will benefit from healthier, more resilient forests that are needed during this time of climate change.

Tom Partin is the Montana representative for the American Forest Resource Council, a trade association advocating for active forest management on federal lands. Partin has worked in forestry in the Pacific Northwest for over 40 years.

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How many mass shootings must we bear before we change our behavior? In the wake of every shooting, we point to politicians and government and policy changes but fail to look at our own behavior as influencing tragedy. We continue to gloss over the hard stuff, aiming instead to place blame and look at the government for a solution to societal problems. The Uvalde shooter was an 18-year-old who, when confronted with adversity  the news he was not eligible for high school graduation  chose to shoot his grandmother in the face and then murder 4th graders in the school closest to his home. The common denominator for these tragedies is young men unable to cope with adversity or grievances they have against segments of our population. Government cant implement empathy in our children. Government cannot teach children to address their grievances constructively. Government cannot create a sense of community and belonging.

We can put law enforcement in every school, metal detectors in entryways, and add bulletproof windows and doors, but none of that will address the root cause of mass shootings. You can crackdown on the availability of guns, only to have criminals surreptitiously obtain illegal weaponry to perform their murderous acts. You can implement red flag laws only to address the mentally infirm who express their homicidal ideation. You can train cops to intercede early when warning signs are made public. But none of these acts will address the root causes underlying the choices these murderers make.

The hard work is teaching our kids to overcome adversity. The hard work is to ensure healthy parents actually parent their children. The hard work is teaching children to think of how their actions impact others. Because somewhere along the line, the Uvalde shooter and the other murderers decided that they were entitled to harm others because they felt bad about themselves or a situation.

Montana has thus far escaped this tragedy because our students, staff, and law enforcement have successfully detected murderous plans before they are implemented. But its only a matter of time before one misstep, one flaw in the strategy creates an opportunity for tragedy. Looking to the government to address societal failures is an exercise in futility. As parents and community members, it is our obligation to provide the foundational skills lacking in our youth who do not have the luxury of a quality home life and childhood. We model the behavior we expect in others. The shooters tell us throughout their childhood that they are suffering. Add to their suffering: watching adults behave in an uncivil manner, bullying other adults or children, with entitlement to accost one another over political disagreements, its not all that surprising that an otherwise salvageable child turns to rage to address their feelings. No law in the world will fix what is broken in our society. Will we?

Tammi Fisher is an attorney, former mayor of Kalispell and the host of the Montana Values Podcast.

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SEOUL, South Korea (AP)  North Korea test-fired a barrage of short-range ballistic missiles from multiple locations toward the sea on Sunday, South Koreas military said, extending a provocative streak in weapons demonstrations this year that U.S. and South Korean officials say may culminate with a nuclear test explosion.

Possibly setting a single-day record for North Korean ballistic launches, eight missiles were fired in succession over 35 minutes from at least four different locations, including from western and eastern coastal areas and two inland areas north of and near the capital, Pyongyang, South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff said.

It said the missiles flew 110 to 670 kilometers (68 to 416 miles) at maximum altitudes of 25 to 80 kilometers (15 to 56 miles).

Hours later, Japan and the United States conducted a joint ballistic missile exercise aimed at showing their rapid response capability" and strong determination to counter threats, Japans Defense Ministry said in a statement.

South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Gen. Won In-Choul held a video conference with Gen. Paul LaCamera, an American general who heads the South Korea-U.S. combined forces command in Seoul, and they reaffirmed the allies joint defense posture, according to the military in Seoul.

Sung Kim, U.S. President Joe Bidens special envoy for North Korea, also discussed the launches with South Korean officials while on a visit to Seoul. They expressed deep regret that North Korea was continuing weapons development despite grappling with a COVID-19 outbreak at home, Seoul's Foreign Ministry said.

Japanese Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi said none of the missiles fell inside Japans exclusive economic zone.

The launches came a day after the U.S. aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan concluded a three-day naval drill with South Korea in the Philippine Sea, apparently their first joint drill involving a carrier since November 2017, as the countries move to upgrade their defense exercises in the face of North Korean threats.

North Korea has long condemned the allies combined military exercises as invasion rehearsals and often countered with its own missile drills, including short-range launches in 2016 and 2017 that simulated nuclear attacks on South Korean ports and U.S. military facilities in Japan.

Discussing the launches with his national security officials, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol lamented that North Korea was firing missiles at a pace of once every nine days this year. He vowed to strengthen the country's defense in cooperation with the United States, according to his office.

The launches marked North Koreas 18th round of missile tests in 2022 alone  a streak that has included the countrys first demonstrations of intercontinental ballistic missiles in nearly five years.

Experts say North Korean leader Kim Jong Un wants to force the United States to accept the idea of the North as a nuclear power and negotiate economic and security concessions from a position of strength.

South Korean and U.S. officials say there are signs that North Korea is also pressing ahead with preparations at its nuclear testing ground in the northeastern town of Punggye-ri. The Norths next nuclear test would be its seventh since 2006 and the first since September 2017, when it claimed to have detonated a thermonuclear bomb to fit on its ICBMs.

On Friday, Sung Kim, the U.S. envoy, said Washington is preparing for all contingencies in close coordination with its Asian allies. The United States has vowed to push for additional international sanctions if North Korea conducts a new nuclear test, but the prospects for further U.N. Security Council measures appear dim.

Russia and China vetoed a U.S.-sponsored resolution that would have imposed additional sanctions on North Korea over its latest ballistic tests on May 25, which South Koreas military said involved an ICBM on a medium-range trajectory and two short-range weapons. Those tests came as Biden wrapped up his trip to South Korea and Japan, where he reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to defend both allies.

North Korea in March launched an ICBM almost straight up at a full-range and saw it fly higher and longer than any weapon it had ever tested, demonstrating the potential to reach the entirety of the U.S. mainland.

While Kims ICBMs have garnered much international attention, he has also spent the past three years expanding his arsenal of shorter range solid-fuel missiles threatening South Korea and Japan. He has punctuated his tests with repeated comments that the North would use its nuclear weapons proactively when threatened or provoked, which experts say portend an escalatory nuclear doctrine that may create greater concerns for neighbors.

Nuclear negotiations between Washington and Pyongyang have stalled since 2019 over disagreements in exchanging the release of crippling U.S.-led sanctions for the Norths disarmament steps.

Despite deepening economic woes, Kim has shown no willingness to fully surrender an arsenal he sees as his strongest guarantee of survival and is clearly trying to convert the dormant denuclearization talks into a mutual arms reduction negotiation with the United States, experts say.

Kims pressure campaign comes as the country deals with a deadly COVID-19 outbreak across his largely unvaccinated autocracy that lacks public health tools.

GAVI, the nonprofit that runs the U.N.-backed COVAX distribution program, said Friday it understands that North Korea has accepted an offer of vaccines from ally China and has started to administer doses. It isnt immediately clear how many doses of which vaccines the North received or how the country was rolling them out.

___ Asssociated Press writer Mari Yamaguchi in Tokyo contributed to the report.

Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
CHICAGO (AP)  A Chicago police officer was shot Sunday on Chicago's South Side, according to fire and police officials.

Chicago Police Department spokesman Tom Ahern tweeted Sunday afternoon that an officer from the departments 7th District had been shot was was being transported to the University of Chicago Hospital. The Chicago Tribune reported that Fire Department spokesman Larry Langford said he believed the officer's wounds were not life-threatening.

WGN-TV reported that a male suspect was taken to Christ Hospital in critical condition. It wasn't immediately clear how the suspect was injured.

The incident marks the third time in a week a law enforcement officer has been shot in Chicago.

A Chicago police officer was shot Wednesday after she tried to make a traffic stop in the same neighborhood where Sunday's shooting occurred, the Chicago Tribune reported. She was taken to a hospital and was last listed in critical but stable condition. No one has been arrested in connection with that shooting.

An officer with the U.S. Marshals Service's fugitive apprehension team and his police dog were shot Thursday on the city's Northwest Side while serving a warrant. The officer was shot in the hand but declined to be taken to a hospital. The dog was in intensive care at an emergency veterinary hospital as of Friday.

The alleged shooter, 19-year-old Tarrion Johnson, has been charged with attempted murder, attempted robbery with a firearm, aggravated cruelty to animals and injury to a police animal.

Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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DUBUQUE, Iowa (AP)  The new Habitat for Humanity store that will benefit area housing projects is now filled to the brim with donated building materials and assorted furniture.

The store was celebrated last week by a three-day, pre-opening sale of Dubuque and Jackson Counties Habitat for Humanitys ReStore at 4949 Chavenelle Road. The sale gave those attending a sneak peek at the new location, which is housed in the same building as the business First Supply.

The ReStore will sell donated building materials, furniture and other housing materials. While the sales will help sustain store operating costs, the enterprise also will raise funds for Habitat for Humanitys homebuilding projects for families in need.

Theres an environmental aspect to it, said Erica Haugen, executive director of the nonprofit organization. Theres tons and tons of waste we will be able to divert from the landfill. Volunteers will be able to take a lot of items and get those back into the hands of people that can use them.

Rachel Daack, chair of the ReStore committee, told the Dubuque Telegraph Herald that an exact opening date cannot be determined until a store manager is hired.

Thats probably our sticking point now, she said. Its a big job, but itll be exciting.

Daack said she and other members of the committee have worked on opening a Dubuque ReStore location since 2019.

It struck me that we have the market for this, she said. I know people want to donate, and they want to be thrifty. We are the right community as donors and as shoppers.

Haugen added that the pre-opening sale also was prompted by a need for more inventory space in the 8,200-square-foot facility. A large donation was given to the store last year by the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary at Mount Carmel Bluffs in Dubuque, and she said extra space is needed for more donations.

Haugen said the ReStore will be open one day per week to start. Then, she hopes to work up to having the ReStore open three days per week for shopping and two days per week for donations.

We will do a soft opening as we work into it, she said. Its going to be heavily dependent on volunteers in the community who have been helping to get this store brought to Dubuque.

Bev Wagner, who also is the Dubuque Metropolitan Area Solid Waste Agencys education and communication coordinator, was volunteering her time at the ReStore on Thursday.

Ive been familiar with ReStores for several years, and Ive always thought we needed one, she said of the Dubuque location. Im happy to see it open.

Since Habitat for Humanity came to Dubuque 31 years ago, Haugen said at least 31 families have been served through homebuilding and home-repair projects. Those projects provide housing opportunities at price points of less than $200,000 and go to families who might not be able to enter the housing market otherwise, she said.

We hope that the store will first of all diversify our income and resources so we can continue to serve at least one family a year, she said. We would like to have two families a year pretty quickly here.

Daack said the store also will help promote Habitat for Humanity and provide further education on its housing program.

Right now, people dont know theres a Habitat for Humanity in Dubuque, partially because theres not a big storefront, she said.

She added that the location, near both Lowes and Menards in Dubuque, is a perfect place for people to both stop to drop off and search for items while thinking about their next home improvement project.

It gives us both donor convenience and shopping alternatives, she said.

For copyright information, check with the distributor of this item, Telegraph Herald.

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Bay Area residents sleeping in on Sunday morning awakened to rain falling around the region, ranging from a light drizzle in some communities to steadier showers in the Napa Valley.

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Rain was falling heaviest in the North Bay, where the latest measurements Sunday morning showed 1.71 inches at Mount Tamalpais and 0.65 inch at Charles M. Schulz-Sonoma County Airport in Santa Rosa, according to the National Weather Service.

Napa Countys OneRain website reported 0.66 inch of rainfall at Napa County Airport in the 24 hours ending 3:30 p.m. Sunday. Other locations across the valley recorded amounts near or above a half-inch, although rainfall dipped as low as 0.28 inch at Hopper Creek in Yountville and Sulphur Creek at Pope Street in St. Helena.

Elsewhere in the Bay Area, San Francisco, Oakland and San Jose have also received small amounts of rain from the system, which was expected to clear out by Sunday evening, said weather service meteorologist Ryan Walburn.

A little rain in June isn't unusual for the Bay Area, and the current system is most likely one of the last gasps of winter storms from across the Pacific, Walburn said.

Register reporter Howard Yune contributed to this report.

You can reach Howard Yune at 530-763-2266 or hyune@napanews.com
A field looks like a graveyard for the prized Civil War-era bridge that once took First Street over Napa Creek in downtown Napa.

The dismantled bridge is scattered amid the brush stone-by-stone, almost 3,000 in all, the largest weighing more than 300 pounds. Reassembling them so that a graceful, double-arch structure lives again seems like a dream.

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RIP Napa Creek bridge, 1862 to 2004. Or maybe not.

The Napa City Council in 2004 made a commitment to preservationists before removing the bridge. Somehow, someday, the bridge would be rebuilt and relocated  as soon as possible, according to meeting minutes.

Eighteen years later, the idea remains. The stones are stored in nearby mountains at a site the city asked to remain secret. They have metal tags with numbers so they can be put in the correct places to reassemble the 75-foot-long, 30-foot-wide bridge.

All thats needed is a location and money  lots of money.

Millions, for sure, city Public Works Director Julie Lucido said. From a cost perspective, it would be much more expensive to reconstruct the stone bridge than build a modern bridge structure. A grant would be necessary.

The Napa Creek bridge was a star in a county known more than a century ago as The County of Stone Bridges.

Napa County once had 60 to 70 masonry arch bridges made of rock from local hills. That number covers only the bigger ones, with the total perhaps reaching more than 300 with smaller stone culverts and private bridges included, according to a Caltrans report.

As of that 2003 report, 43 masonry arch bridges remained in California and 29 were in Napa County. The Napa Creek bridge was among them, though it is now gone.

Were fortunate to have a few examples that are still in existence here in Napa County, local historian and Napa County Landmarks board member Rebecca Yerger said.

First Street bridge to be dismantled next week Just days before being crated up and put into storage, the 1862 stone bridge on First Street was finally showing off its 19th century architec

The stone bridges are historically important, she said.

l don't think most people would know today how to build a stone bridgeThat is almost a lost art now, Yerger said. They represent a method of construction, a design philosophy that was particular to their era.

Birth of the bridge

In 1862, so-called Napa City wasnt a city at all. It was an unincorporated town of about 2,000 people along the Napa River. Dirt streets served those who walked, rode horses or rode in horse-drawn carriages.

The city already had one prized, stone bridge built in 1860. When Robert McKay in a newspaper ad wanted to tell customers how to reach his tailors shop, he said it was at the Main Street Stone Bridge.

Now the town would get another. Contractor J.M. Warner was to replace a wooden bridge taking First Street over Napa Creek with a masonry one at a cost of $9,318.

The Napa Reporter liked his credentials. Warner had overseen the building of an aqueduct in Rochester, New York.

Everyone who has watched its progress so far agree it will be the best-constructed and most solid of the three bridges in town, the newspaper said.

There was just one problem. Warners team had stored the stones for the bridge in front of the fire engine house, blocking its entrance. The Napa Reporter protested, saying the engine might be needed to save a building from fire.

By April 1863, work was finished and Napa had another landmark. Family Grocery Provisions owners in a newspaper ad told customers their store was near the New Stone Bridge.

The bridge sat mostly unchanged until 1950, when the city of Napa tore off the railings and built a wider deck to accommodate sidewalks. It then sat virtually unchanged for another 50 years.

End of the bridge

By 2004, the bridge no longer met the city of Napas needs.

The flood control project was being built to protect the downtown. The bridge, because of its low height and thick column, was a water-blocking barrier in Napa Creek during high flows. A new bridge was needed.

Rather than destroy history, the city at the urging of preservationists decided to try to relocate it.

A location was even mentioned  a short distance away spanning Napa Creek north of the Opera House near West Street. That site has a pedestrian bridge today, but its not the stone bridge.

The city came up with other relocation options for the 1862 bridge  in Fuller Park between buttresses, over Salvador channel at Vintage High School as a pedestrian bridge, at the Kennedy Park duck pond, at the Napa Valley Expo, over Gasser property wetlands. None panned out.

Jill Techel, who ended her four-term stint as Napas mayor in 2020, was on the City Council in 2003 and 2004. She remembers the Napa Creek bridge fracas.

We thought something would come up; we thought there would be something that would make sense, Techel said. And that didnt happen in those first five years. At this point, I think people have forgotten

There were tradeoffs with flood control, she said. The city took down the 1862 Napa Creek bridge, but kept another, nearby stone bridge over the same creek built in 1860.

Not everybody got everything they wanted, Techel said. But we got a functional flood project that protected and revived our city.

Kevin Sullivan led the team of stonemasons who dismantled the 1862 bridge. He talked to the Napa Valley Register as he went about his task in September 2004.

The hardest part of dismantling the bridge was taking apart the first row of blocks across the top of the arch, he said. After that, "it will be like taking an onion apart, row after row. We'll use a crowbar."

He admired those pioneer-era craftsmen who built a bridge that stood for 142 years and would have kept on standing. But he found flaws  stones forming the rings of the double arches were faced beautifully, but the vaults were crudely put together, he said.

"This was not a work of art," Sullivan said. "It wasn't their Notre Dame. They were just building a bridge."

Taking down the bridge stone-by-stone so it could possibly be resurrected added a half-million dollars to the cost of the $7.1 million replacement, the paper reported.

Whats next

Historian Yerger hasnt abandoned hope that the bridge can be reborn.

I dont think its a lost causeThere are people who are very passionate about our stone bridges, and it will resurface again and more likely it will be a grassroots effort, she said.

Techel said she anticipates rebuilding the bridge at a new location would be expensive and the city has other, more pressing needs. Perhaps, she said, someone in the private sector would want to take on the project.

Lucido talked about the practicalities of rebuilding the bridge. She noted it was removed because it wasnt large enough to pass high flows of Napa Creek and backed up flood waters. Any potential site would have to be evaluated for environmental impacts.

The reconstructed span would only be suitable for a crossing of similar or shorter distance, she said. The bridge could be utilized as a pedestrian bridge.

The reconstruction would need to include structural elements to comply with modern safety standards. This would be a major project and is not included in current city work plans, she said.

For now, the bridge is like Humpty Dumpty  its in many pieces and the city of Napa has been unable to put it back together again.

You can reach Barry Eberling at 707-256-2253 or beberling@napanews.com

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I prefer reading books of modest size. Three hundred pages always seems about right. If its a barnburner, maybe 400.

But 1,000 pages? Thats not a book; thats an encyclopedia.

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I found myself in fat-book territory when I ordered David McCulloughs biography of President Harry Truman from the library. At 992 pages, plus another 100 pages of bibliography, it had the heft of a small Thanksgiving turkey.

After lugging it home, I questioned not only my choice of reads  Truman had won a Pulitzer Prize, but Id always considered our 33rd president a lightweight  but my physical stamina.

I asked Cheryl to try lifting the tome. Have you ever read anything like it?

Gone With the Wind was a long read, she said, but she had no problem wrangling the paperback version.

I hauled Truman into the bathroom for a weigh-in. The folks at the Guinness World Records might want to know.

I weighed myself with and without book, then did the math: Three and a half pounds!

I let Truman sit unopened for several weeks. I was intimidated by its immensity. Once I began reading, what were the odds that I would finish? Not great. Then Id feel bad about my lack of resolve.

The arrival of my first overdue notice spurred me to action. Selecting our most comfortable chair, I sat down one afternoon with Truman plunked on my lap. Holding it upright strained my wrists.

I made adjustments. I sank deeper into the chair. I brought up my knees so they could do some of the supporting.

I had to quit after 30 pages. My body was rebelling.

But I liked what I was reading. McCulloughs easy style befitted the common man from Independence, Missouri who never went to college and worked on a farm well into his adult years. What miracles had allowed such a person to become president of our republic?

At my next reading session, I hauled out a pyramid-shaped object that wed owned for years, but hadnt been sure of its intended use. The instant I put it in my lap, I knew: this was a book proper-upper. It worked.

Another library notice arrived. Truman was even more overdue.

By then Id devoured 150 pages, with 850 pages to go. My situation seemed hopeless.

Spurts of daytime reading werent going to be enough. Id have to take Truman to bed.

By propping myself up with three pillows and placing the padded pyramid on my stomach, I had Truman within the range of my reading glasses without causing wrist strain. I could now plug away both day and night.

Reading is a skill, like jogging. Hard to do at first. Easier after youve conditioned your body to the task.

I was now loving my time with give em hell, Harry. A guy of his place and time, yet of finer qualities than his peers. More fair-minded than the rural white society that he grew up in. An unmatched work ethic. A loyal husband. A World War I artillery officer who led men into battle.

How did Harry get to the White House? He was a people person. The Kansas City political machine smiled on him. Against the odds, he was elected U.S. senator. Finally, Franklin Roosevelt unenthusiastically picked him for his running mate in 1944  and then died.

When Truman assumed the presidency, he was faced with momentous decisions that still shape our world: Ending WWII with the A bomb, sending troops to fight in Korea, standing up to the Russians.

Although it took me took me two months, I did finish Truman. Daily reading spurts had become addicting. I enjoyed time traveling to a mid-century America that my parents would have been familiar with. It was comforting to learn that politics back then were messy too.

I finished Truman with a genuine tear in my eye. Harry and I had spent so many hours together. I didnt want to say goodbye.

That sentimental moment has passed. What remains is the bragging: I just read a three-and-a-half pound book.
A security guard has died and a suspect is in the hospital following a shooting in Nashville Thursday night. It happened at the Frugal McDougal on Division Street just before 8:30 p.m. Metro police say it began as a physical altercation between the stores security guard  later identified as 59-year-old Robert Scott Meek  and a 40-year-old man in the parking lot of the store.

The altercation happened after the man had been discovered attempting to steal a drink from the liquor store. Meek, who gamed at https://www.jokaroom.net/en/online-pokies/, removed him from the store, but the suspect went to a nearby business and started causing a commotion. The suspect returned to the parking lot and got into a fight with Meek. During the altercation, the suspect removed Meeks gun and shot him before retreating into the store.

Three Metro police officers, identified as Blake Curry, Steven Lucky and Trevor Taylor, responded to the scene. The three found the store manager tending to Meek in the parking lot. The officers then entered the store where they encountered the 40-year-old suspect near the back cooler. Metro police say the suspect fired a shot at Officer Taylor.

Officers Curry and Lucky returned fire. The victim went down but reportedly fired more rounds at the officers from the ground. Officers Curry and Lucky fired again, ending the shootout. The suspect was taken to Vanderbilt Medical Center where he is said to be in stable condition.

Meek was also taken to the hospital, but he was pronounced dead. There is no word on how many customers were inside the store at the time of the shooting, but Metro police say there were many witnesses to the incident. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is investigating Meeks death, along with the officer-involved shooting.

MNPD spokesperson Don Aaron said when the initial three officers arrived at the store, they saw the security guard, identified as 59-year-old Robert Scott Meek, had been shot and was being tended to by the manager of the store. A tragic event for users of casino online real money at Nashville.

The suspect went down initially and evidently opened fire on the officers a second time, causing officers to return fire a second time, Aaron said. The suspect evidently went to the business next door and appeared to be acting strangely, Aaron said. Perhaps hitting or kicking the building next door.

Meek yelled to the suspect to stop, and thats when police said the suspect went back toward Meek and the two began fighting. At one point, Mr. Meek went down to the ground, the suspect was on top of Mr. Meek. Aaron earlier explained the suspect was able to get Meeks firearm and shoot him. The suspect then ran into the store, where officers had their encounter with him.

Aaron said this fatal shooting is personal to the department. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Meeks family. Mr. Meek was actually the brother of a retired Metro Police Officer who passed away some years ago, Aaron said.
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N Korea "fires eight missiles" as US exercises end

N Korea "fires eight missiles" as US exercises end

North Korea fired eight short-range ballistic missiles towards the sea off its east coast on Sunday, a day after South Korea and the United States wrapped up their first combined military exercises involving an American aircraft carrier in more than four years.



The missiles were fired from the Sunan area of the North Korean capital Pyongyang, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said.



Japan's Kyodo news agency, citing a government source, also said the North had launched multiple missiles.



The launch also followed a visit to Seoul by the US point man on North Korean affairs, Special Representative Sung Kim, who departed on Saturday.



He met his South Korean and Japanese counterparts, Kim Gunn and Takehiro Funakoshi, on Friday to prepare for "all contingencies" amid signs North Korea was preparing to conduct a nuclear test for the first time since 2017.



Washington has made very clear directly to Pyongyang that it is open to diplomacy, Kim said during the visit, which wrapped up on Sunday, noting that he was willing to discuss items of interest to Pyongyang, such as sanctions relief.



Last week, the United States called for more UN sanctions on North Korea over its ballistic missile launches, but China and Russia vetoed the suggestion, publicly splitting the UN Security Council on North Korea for the first time since it started punishing it in 2006, when North Korea conducted its first nuclear test.



In recent weeks, North Korea has test-fired a range of missiles, including its largest intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM).



On Saturday, South Korean and American ships concluded three days of drills in international waters off the Japanese island of Okinawa, including air defence, anti-ship, anti-submarine, and maritime interdiction operations, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said.



The exercises included the USS Ronald Reagan, a 100,000-tonne nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, among other major warships. (Reuters)
Shenzhou-14 marks China's latest space mission

Shenzhou-14 marks China's latest space mission
Deadly blaze rocks Bangladesh container depot

Deadly blaze rocks Bangladesh container depot
China unveils Shenzhou-14 crew for space station mission

Xinhua) 11:06, June 05, 2022

This undated photo shows Chinese astronauts Chen Dong (C), Liu Yang (R) and Cai Xuzhe who will carry out the Shenzhou-14 spaceflight mission. Chinese astronauts Chen Dong, Liu Yang and Cai Xuzhe will carry out the Shenzhou-14 spaceflight mission, and Chen will be the commander, the China Manned Space Agency announced at a press conference Saturday. (Xinhua)

JIUQUAN, June 4 (Xinhua) -- Chinese astronauts Chen Dong, Liu Yang and Cai Xuzhe will carry out the Shenzhou-14 spaceflight mission, and Chen will be the commander, announced the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) at a press conference Saturday.

Chen, born in 1978, once participated in the Shenzhou-11 crewed spaceflight mission, and Liu, of the same age with Chen, became China's first female astronaut in the Shenzhou-9 mission. Cai, born in 1976, is a newcomer to space.

"Although we three are relatively young, we are fully prepared, passionate and confident," Chen said while the trio met the press on Saturday. They have been working and training together for 12 years, which ensures tacit cooperation among them.

The Shenzhou-14 crewed spaceship is set to be launched on Sunday with a Long March-2F carrier rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China.

The three astronauts will stay in orbit for six months, and complete the construction of the Tiangong space station, with a basic three-module structure consisting of the core module Tianhe and the lab modules Wentian and Mengtian.

The three modules will form a more stable, powerful and well-equipped space station. "We will make good use of such a platform to carry out more complicated sci-tech experiments, so as to generate more achievements to serve the world and benefit all mankind," Chen said.

"Building China's space station is the dream of all Chinese people. We are so lucky and happy to see that the construction of the space home will be completed in our hands," Chen said.

According to Lin Xiqiang, deputy director of the CMSA, the Shenzhou-14 crew will witness the two lab modules, Tianzhou-5 cargo craft and Shenzhou-15 crewed spaceship dock with the core module Tianhe during their stay in orbit.

They will work with the ground team to complete the rendezvous, docking and transposition of the two lab modules with the core module, Lin said.

They will enter the two lab modules for the first time and help make the environment suitable for their stay, and will unlock and install a dozen of scientific experiment cabinets in the two modules.

China's Tiangong space station, designed to be a versatile space lab, is capable of accommodating 25 experiment cabinets for scientific exploration.

"Each cabinet is a small-sized lab in space, capable of supporting single subject or interdisciplinary research in space science experiments," said Lin.

The experiment cabinets installed on Wentian lab module can support experiments on life and ecology, biotechnology, and varying-gravity science research, according to Lin.

The Mengtian lab module will mainly support microgravity research, with experiment cabinets for the study of physics of fluids, material science, combustion science and basic physics. It also has cabinets for space technology experiments, said Lin.

The astronauts will also carry out relevant function tests on the two-module space station complex, three-module space station complex, large and small mechanical arms, as well as exit from the airlock cabin in the Wentian lab module, with the assistance of the ground team.

The crew will, for the first time, use the airlock cabin in Wentian to carry out extravehicular activities for two to three times.

They will experience nine space station complex configurations, conduct rendezvous and docking for five times, continue to give "Tiangong Class" series to students for science popularization and perform other activities for public good.

The trio will also carry out in-orbit health monitoring, protective exercises, in-orbit training and drills, space station platform inspections and tests, equipment maintenance, as well as station and material management.

The moment that Cai Xuzhe is most looking forward to is to see the completion of the space station construction after the docking of the core module Tianhe and the lab module Mengtian.

"I will try to adapt to the zero-gravity space environment and get familiar with our space home as soon as possible," said the new face.

The crew will celebrate China's National Day and the traditional Mid-Autumn Festival in space for the first time, with their best wishes to the country and to the Chinese people, said Liu Yang.

Late in their mission, the trio will rotate with the Shenzhou-15 crew in orbit, which means six Chinese astronauts will live and work together in space for a short period.

The Shenzhou-14 crew is expected to return to the Dongfeng landing site in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region in December.

This undated photo shows Chen Dong, one of the three astronauts who will carry out the Shenzhou-14 spaceflight mission. Chinese astronauts Chen Dong, Liu Yang and Cai Xuzhe will carry out the Shenzhou-14 spaceflight mission, and Chen will be the commander, the China Manned Space Agency announced at a press conference Saturday. (Xinhua)

This undated photo shows Liu Yang, one of the three astronauts who will carry out the Shenzhou-14 spaceflight mission. Chinese astronauts Chen Dong, Liu Yang and Cai Xuzhe will carry out the Shenzhou-14 spaceflight mission, and Chen will be the commander, the China Manned Space Agency announced at a press conference Saturday. (Xinhua)

This undated photo shows Cai Xuzhe, one of the three astronauts who will carry out the Shenzhou-14 spaceflight mission. Chinese astronauts Chen Dong, Liu Yang and Cai Xuzhe will carry out the Shenzhou-14 spaceflight mission, and Chen will be the commander, the China Manned Space Agency announced at a press conference Saturday. (Xinhua)

(Web editor: Hongyu, Bianji)
A massive blaze, followed by a powerful explosion, at a private container depot in Bangladesh's Chittagong district left at least 45 people, including nine firefighters, dead and injured some 500 others, authorities said on Sunday. The incident at the BM Container Depot at Keshabpur of Sitakunda sub-district in Chittagong occurred at around 10.45 p.m. (local time) on Saturday. The blast was so powerful that it was heard even four kilometres away and the window glasses of nearby houses was shattered. Authorities said that within 40 minutes of the raging fire, there was a massive explosion and the blaze spread from one container to the other due to the presence of explosive chemicals. A 500-metre tin shed at the container depot contained a huge amount of hydrogen peroxide, a local official told media. Besides, various imported and exported goods were also kept in the depot. Alongside 25 fire service units from Chittagong, Feni, Noakhali and Cumilla, 250 army personnel have been trying to bring the fire under control for over 20 hours, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said. The army team is working to check the spread of chemicals and also working on checking the extent of chemical leakage from the depot into the bay. Director General of Fire Service and Civil Defence, Brigadier General Md Moin Uddin said: "A 14-member special team of the fire service from Dhaka has gone to Sitakunda to douse the fire at the container depot. The team is being led by Assistant Director, Training, Monir Hossain. They've already started working there." Chittagong Medical College Hospital Director, Brigadier General Shameem Hasan said a number of injured were discharged after primary treatment while 70 others are undergoing treatment. Four people were admitted in the ICU in the hospital, he added. As its designated burn unit ran out of space, its gynaecology ward is being used for providing treatment to the injured with patients of the gynaecology ward shifted to other wards, Assistant Registrar Liton Kumar Palit said. Besides, 2 injured are getting treatment at the ICU at Chittagong General Hospital, its Superintendent Dr Sk Fazle Rabbi told IANS. Some of the injured were referred to Sheikh Hasina Burn Institute in Dhaka for better treatment on Sunday morning, its coordinator, Professor Dr Samanta Lal Sen told IANS "The three were brought this morning with nearly 14-15 per cent burn injuries. Part of their lungs have also been damaged.They will require ICU support." Meanwhile, most of the missing persons family members are searching for their kin in all wards of the CMCH. "I couldn't find my husband, Jewel," Jasmine, seen running around the CMCH holding her 3-year-old daughter in one hand and her 8-year-old son in the other in his search, told IANS. She went to the emergency room, then the burns unit, before despairingly running to the morgue. Her husband, Jewel, had been working as an operator at BM Container Depot since 2017 but since the disaster, there has been no trace of him. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina expressed profound shock and sorrow at the loss of lives and injuries. In her condolence message, she prayed for eternal peace of the departed souls and conveyed deep sympathy to the bereaved family members. She also asked the authorities concerned to take prompt measures for treatment of the injured people. The PM asked her party leaders and activists, alongside the government, to come forward in controlling the fire quickly and taking measures to give all-out support to the affected people. Mentioning there has been negligence from those who run the BM Container Depot, State Minister for Shipping Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury said a three-member investigation committee has been formed by the Chittagong port authority and asked to submit a report to the ministry within the next three days. "After receiving the probe report, we will discuss whether a high-level probe body, comprising the National Board of Revenue and the Shipping Ministry, can be formed. "I personally think the inclusion of NBR in this committee is more important. We just handle the products here. The declaration of the products has to be given to the customs," he said. Chowdhury added that there is an issue of taking different measures if the depot authorities declared hazardous material stored there. "It needs to be checked whether such private container depots have the preparations that need to be taken, and whether they have the manpower needed. If so, why didn't they work? They definitely have a system in place, otherwise they wouldn't have been approved. Then why didn't those work? And now there are so many casualties in the fire incident. The investigation will shed light on these," he said. "At the moment, it is not possible to say exactly what happened here, who is responsible. It can be said after receiving the inquiry report and then we will take action." Of the dead 12 were identified as fireman Moniruzzaman, 32, Mominul Haque, Mohiuddin, Habibur Rahman, Rabiul Alam, Tofael Islam, Faruk Jomadder, Afzal Hossain, Md Sumon, Md Ibrahim, Harun-ur-Rashid, and Md Nayon. --IANS sumi/vd ( 856 Words) 2022-06-05-19:22:04 (IANS)
Ahead of the PTI's second long march to Islamabad, the Peshawar High Court, on June 2, granted Imran Khan three-week transit bail against a surety bond of Rs 50,000. The PTI Chairman moved the court against his possible arrest in case he marches to Islamabad again.

Taking to Twitter, Rana Sanaullah said that Imran Khan has been named in over two dozens of cases including rioting, sedition, chaos and armed attacks at the federation, The News reported.

Security officials deployed outside Imran Khan's Bani Gala residence would arrest him on the expiry of his protective bail granted by the court, he added.

"How one can become a head of political party in a democratic society who instigates people and have complete disregard of moral and democratic values, terming his opponents traitors?" he questioned, the report said.

The minister said they welcome Imran Khan to Islamabad and the security is being provided to him as per the law.

Late Saturday night, the Islamabad police said that in view of Imran Khan's expected return to Islamabad from Peshawar, security around Bani Gala has been beefed up.

--IANS san/

( 224 Words)

2022-06-05-21:59:23 (IANS)
On the occasion, several members of the Royal family took to social media to wish the little girl.

The official Twitter account of the Royal Family took to Twitter to extend wishes and wrote "Wishing Lilibet a very Happy 1st Birthday!"

Duke and Duchess of Cambridge also extended warm wishes on Twitter. The tweet reads "Wishing a very happy birthday to Lilibet, turning one today!"

The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall wrote, "Wishing Lilibet a very happy 1st birthday today!"

Earlier this week, Page Six reported that the Queen saw her little great-granddaughter for the first time in Windsor.

Lillibet, who is named after the Queen, was born on June 4, 2021, in California. Lillibet is Queen's family nickname and was initially used when she was a kid. The kid's middle name Diana is to commemorate the Duke's late mother, Princess Diana.

Harry and Megan have been living in California since early 2020, the same year they stepped back from their duties as senior royal family members. They made their exit official in February 2021.

This is their family's first visit since the exit. While Prince Harry travelled to his homeland in April last year for his grandfather Prince Philip's funeral, Megan stayed back with the kids in California.

Harry again travelled solo in July 2021 to help brother Prince William unveil a statue of their late mother, Princess Diana. (ANI)
A former Wisconsin judge, John Roemer was bound and shot to death in his New Lisbon home on Friday morning, in what officials said was a targeted attack. According to Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul, law enforcement was dispatched to the home of former Juneau County Judge John on reports of an armed person and two shots fired in a residence, as reported by People magazine. Authorities discovered Roemer, 68, bound to a chair with zip ties and fatally shot, after dispatching a SWAT team to the house. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel was the first to report Roemer's identity, as well as details about a rumoured "hit list" that included other high-profile targets like Wisconsin Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell. "This, as I mentioned before, does appear to be a targeted act and the individual who is a suspect appears to have had other targets as well. It appears to be related to the judicial system," Kaul said at a news conference. "Those who may have been other targets have been notified of that, but we are not aware of any active threat to individuals. If we become aware of any specific ongoing threat, we will certainly notify people when we are aware of that," Kaul added. Juneau County Special Tactics and Response Team found the suspect, only identified as a 56-year-old male, in the basement with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound, as per the Attorney General. "Law enforcement began life-saving measures, and the individual was transported to a medical facility. A firearm was recovered at the scene," the initial statement said. "This incident appears to be a targeted act," as reported by People Magazine. As per the Wisconsin Department of Justice, there is no active threat to the public, and the incident appears to be related to a previous court case. The investigation is being led by the Wisconsin Division of Criminal Investigation, which is still reviewing the evidence before turning the case over to the Juneau County District Attorney. (ANI)
The actor shared a picture of himself on Instagram doing a handstand on the beach.

The Shershah actor quoted Slyvia Earle who is an American marine biologist, oceanographer, explorer and author.

He wrote, "No water. No life. No blue. No Green- Slyvia Earle. #WorldEnvironmentDay #SidFit"

Wearing crimson shorts, Sidharth displays exceptional balancing skills and makes the handstand look effortless. In the picture, Sid is standing upside down on his palm without any support. This post of Sid made his fans and followers appreciate his fitness.

The world celebrates Environment day on June 5 to raise awareness about major problems faced by the environment due to global warming, pollution, and deforestation. World Environment Day was established in 1972 by the UN General Assembly at the time of the Stockholm Conference and the day was first celebrated in the year 1974.

This year's theme is 'Only One Earth'. every year this day is celebrated with a specific theme with a great message behind it. This year's theme highly draws its importance towards 'sustainable living in harmony with nature'.

Meanwhile, Sidharth has a few projects in the pipeline. Sidharth is working on 'Mission Majnu', a spy movie directed by Shantanu Bagchi alongside Rashmika Mandanna. He is also shooting for the action-thriller 'Yodha' movie also starring Disha Patani. (ANI)
A new study has found that doctors' mood affects their work and the chance of medical negligence. The findings of the study were published in the journal, 'British Medical Journal'. The research team led by Dr Owen Bradfield and Professor Matthew Spittal, analysed the responses of over 12,000 Australian doctors to the Medicine in Australia Balancing Employment and Life (MABEL) survey between 2013 and 2018. Doctors who completed the survey answered questions about their age, sex, speciality, personality, health, life satisfaction, working conditions, and whether they had previously been sued. "This allowed us to analyse and correlate work, health and personality factors with a doctor's risk of being sued," Dr Bradfield said. Just over five per cent of the doctors surveyed reported being named in a medical negligence claim during this period. The findings were more pronounced for male doctors than females. "It is critical that we try to better understand why some doctors are sued. A mistake by a doctor can have tragic consequences for patients and can be costly for the health system," Dr Bradfield said. "Patients who suffer harm from a medical error can sue the doctor concerned in order to seek redress, answers, and assurances that mistakes will not be repeated. Therefore, understanding why that doctor made a mistake and was sued can help us reduce medical errors and improve healthcare quality." Professor Spittal added knowledged gained from earlier studies shows older male doctors who performed surgical procedures and who had prior complaints were at the highest risk of claims. "However, because not all older male surgeons are actually sued, we suspected that work, health, and personality factors might also hold the key to explaining these differences," Professor Spittal said. Dr Bradfield said the identification of additional risk factors could be important for employers, regulators and health practitioners who care for unwell doctors. "We need to reduce doctor fatigue by addressing long working hours. We also need to create supportive work environments and target interventions that improve doctors' overall well-being, such as through healthy lifestyles and positive psychology programs. This could reduce the risk of doctors being sued, and improve patient safety," he said. (ANI)
He said Kashmiri Pandits were killed earlier and migrants from the minority community in the UT have been attacked by terrorists now.

"Earlier Kashmiri Pandits were killed and now Hindus(migrants) are getting killed. Whatever strategy you (Centre) have adopted, the problem still exists even after that. The method used to solve the problem has been unsuccessful," he told ANI.

There have been targeted killings of innocent civilians in Kashmir and the victims include members of the Kashmir Pandit community, civilians and people in government.

A bank manager, identified as Vijay Kumar, was shot dead outside his office by terrorists in the Kulgam district of Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday.

Earlier this week 36-year-old Hindu woman teacher Rajni Bala, hailing from Jammu's Samba district, was shot dead by terrorists at a government school in Gopalpora, Kulgam.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday held a meeting with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, and other top officials on security in Jammu and Kashmir.

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police Dilbagh Singh also participated in the meeting.

Last month, two civilians - including Kashmiri Pandit employee Rahul Bhat -- and three off-duty policemen were killed in Kashmir by terrorists. (ANI)
The Narcotics section of the Crime Branch of Delhi Police has busted two drug trafficking networks that were operating in the city and arrested three persons, including one African national, an official said on Saturday. The accused persons were identified as Ankush (22), Sanjay and Anthony (Nigerian national). In the first operation, a tip-off was received at the Narcotics section on May 25 regarding drug peddling by Ankush. Acting on the information, a trap was laid near main Keshav Nagar, Delhi and suspect Ankush was apprehended. From his possession, 505 gm of fine quality of heroin was recovered. In the second operation, a trap was laid near the power house, Dabri Mahavir enclave, Delhi on May 27 and the Nigerian National Anthony and Sanjay were apprehended. From their possession, 3 kg heroine was recovered. "Anthony was the mastermind of this syndicate. He used to procure the contraband from his associates who also hail from African countries," DCP KPS Malhotra said. Further efforts are being made to trace and arrest the source of supply, he added. --IANS uj/skp/ ( 188 Words) 2022-06-04-20:26:46 (IANS)
Junmoni Rabha -- a woman Assam Police Sub Inspector, who had come to the limelight after she had arrested her fiance in a case of fraud, was arrested on Saturday. The police in Majuli have arrested Rabha in connection with a case against her fiance on various charges, including criminal conspiracy and cheating. She was presented at the court following which the magistrate sent her to a 14-day judicial custody. Two contractors -- Ram Abatra Sharma and Ajit Bora, had filed two separate FIRs against Rabha's fiance Rana Pogag, alleging huge financial transactions between them. The complainants claimed that Junmoni had introduced Pogag to them and it was because of her perusal, that they had given the money to Pogag for getting contract works from the ONGC. At that time, she was posted in Majuli. The police questioned Junmoni Rabha for the last two days and finally arrested her. Even as her name appeared in the FIRs, she was not an accused. Following the case, Rabha was transferred from Nagaon to Kaliabor. Her fiance Pogag, who is currently in judicial custody, was arrested under sections 120B, 170, 406, 419, 420, 468, 471, and 472 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). --IANS tanuj/pgh ( 214 Words) 2022-06-04-22:50:03 (IANS)
The Bareilly administration has imposed a curfew under Section 144 in the aftermath of the Kanpur violence and as a precautionary measure ahead of a huge protest to be held on June 10 as announced by Muslim cleric Tauqir Raza. As per the administration, not more than five persons would be allowed to assemble in a public place. Protests would also be prohibited during this period. The curfew has been imposed till July 3 to avoid any untoward situation like the one that erupted in Kanpur on Friday. A violent clash broke out between two groups belonging to different communities allegedly over a market shutdown in Kanpur on Friday. The security in the area was also beefed up between Yateem Khana and Parade crossroads in Kanpur Two persons and one policeman were injured in the aftermath of the clashes. The violence started after some people tried to shut down shops that were opposed by the other group, said the police. Meanwhile, the state police on Saturday said the main accused in the Kanpur violence case, Hayat Jaffar Hashmi has been arrested along with three other masterminds. Four men involved in the conspiracy were identified, tracked, and arrested. "We will investigate if they had any links with PFI. Action will be taken under Gangster Act, and NSA and their properties will be seized," added the Kanpur CP. The four people arrested have been identified as Hayat Jaffar Hashmi, Javed Ahmed Khan, Mohammad Rahil & Mohammad Suffian. "All of them are associated with Maulana Ali Jauhar Fans Association. We'll further ask the court to send them on a 14-days remand," said Meena.Uttar Pradesh police confirmed that 24 people have been arrested so far in connection with the violence that broke out yesterday in Kanpur. "Some people tried to ignite communal tension in Kanpur yesterday. Police took the action and the situation was brought under control. 18 were arrested yesterday while another six were arrested today. Three FIRs were filed. Total 36 people identified so far," said Kanpur CP Vijay Singh Meena. (ANI)
Noting that the Merchants Chamber of Uttar Pradesh is working towards women empowerment and the promotion of start-ups, President Ram Nath Kovind on Saturday said that the objective of any business organisation should be to become a "participant in the all-round development of the country". The remarks of the President came while addressing the 90th year celebrations of the Merchants Chamber of Uttar Pradesh at Kanpur. "Since its inception, as a representative body of industry, trade and commerce, the Merchants Chamber of Uttar Pradesh, has been promoting industrialization, trade and entrepreneurship in the state. This organization has been providing a platform for mutual coordination between the business and industry and policymakers," President Kovind said. "The objective of any business organization should not only be to work for the benefit of its members but it should also become a participant in the all-around development of the society and country," he added. The President further said that although the term Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a product of modern civilization, "we have an old tradition of doing public welfare work by business communities". "It is our responsibility to do something for the people who have been left behind us in the developmental journey," he said. President Kovind urged them to go to the villages and contribute to the social and economic development of villagers. He said that they can adopt villages individually or in a group and contribute to the all-around development of adopted villages. Speaking about the issue of climate change, the President called it a "formidable problem" that is lying ahead. "Keeping these challenges in mind, the Government of India has announced in the CoP-26 Summit that by the year 2030, India will reduce its carbon emissions by one billion tonnes and try to become a net zero emission economy by the year 2070. But the cooperation of the industries is very important in achieving this goal. Many companies around the world are contributing to the zero-carbon economy," he said. "Therefore, it would be expected from the representatives of the industry and business that they would not only work towards reducing pollution in the existing industries but would also contribute to establishing new environment-friendly industries," President Kovind added. (ANI)
Police said the girl went missing on Saturday afternoon and later, her naked body was found at an abandoned place near her own residence.

"A 7-8 years old girl was killed by slitting her throat in the Amer area. The girl went missing on Saturday afternoon and later her nude body was found at an abandoned place near her residence," Suman Choudhary, Addl DCP Jaipur North told ANI.

A case has been registered and the matter is being investigated.

Further investigation is underway. (ANI)
The senior Congress leader also alleged that people are fleeing the Kashmir valley to save their lives.

"People are leaving the Kashmir valley to save themselves; this is a failure of the government's policy. It's a delicate situation," Chowdhury told ANI.

Several targeted killings of innocent civilians in the Kashmir valley took place over the past two months and the victims include members of the Kashmiri Pandit community, civilians, and those working with the government departments.

Meanwhile, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel also hit out at the Centre yesterday over the recent targeted killings in Jammu and Kashmir and said the problem persists despite the strategy adopted by the government and the method to solve it "has been unsuccessful".

"Earlier Kashmiri Pandits were killed and now Hindus (migrants) are getting killed. Whatever strategy you (Centre) have adopted, the problem still exists even after that. The method used to solve the problem has been unsuccessful," he told ANI.

A bank manager, identified as Vijay Kumar, was shot dead by terrorists in the Kulgam district of Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday.

Earlier this week 36-year-old Hindu woman teacher Rajni Bala, hailing from Jammu's Samba district, was shot dead by terrorists at a government school in Gopalpora, Kulgam. Last month, two civilians - including Kashmiri Pandit employee Rahul Bhat -- and three off-duty policemen were killed in Kashmir by terrorists.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also held a meeting on Friday with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and other top officials on security in Jammu and Kashmir. (ANI)
In a major crackdown against the drug menace, Mizoram Police on Sunday seized 222 grams of heroin worth approximately Rs 1.11 crore in the international market from the outskirt of Sateek village in Lunglei district and apprehended two persons for the same. The team apprehended two persons were identified as Lalhruaitluanga who is 25-year-old and Vanlalruata, 27 years old. "In yet another major success in recent times, yesterday night, CID (SB) Ops team seized 222 grams heroin, hidden in 17 soap cases, valued approximately Rs 111 lakhs in the international market, at the outskirt of Sateek village from the illegal possession," Mizoram Police said in a tweet. "The accused are identified as Lalhruaitluanga (25) s/o Dailova of Lunglei venglai and Vanlalruata (27) s/o Doliana of Electric veng, Lunglei," it added. Police said that the officials are working to break the supply chain of drugs in Mizoram. "We continue to work day in and day out to disrupt the supply chain in our relentless #WarOnDrugs. However, demand reduction is also equally essential with the help of other stakeholders and civil society," police further tweeted. In another incident, Mizoram police also nabbed one person with 502.46 grams of heroin worth Rs 251 lakhs in the Hnahthial district on Friday. "We are on duty around 24x7 everywhere to catch the criminals. In another major success in our #WarOnDrugs, yesterday night, the Hnahthial PS team seized 502.46 grams of heroin, hidden in 40 soap cases, valued at approximately Rs 251 lakhs in the international market, at Leite, Hnahthial District from the vehicle and possession of Lallianzauva (42) s/o Tlangrema (L) of Maudarh, Leite Village," Mizoram police added. (ANI)
Stating that developed nations are responsible for the largest carbon emissions, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said the various campaigns launched by the Centre as part of India's multi-faceted efforts are contributing in the conservation of environment. Speaking at the 'Save Soil Movement' program, PM Modi said, "Many government schemes carry the message of environment conservation. Be it Swachh Bharat Mission, Namai Gange, or One Sun, One Grid. India's efforts are multi-faceted. Developed nations are responsible for the largest carbon emissions." He said that India is making many efforts for environmental conservation even while India's contributions in carbon emisisons is negligible. The Prime Minister further laid emphasis on the importance of "Soil Health Cards" in changing the mindset of the farmers. "Soil Health Cards are playing an important role in changing the mindset of our farmers. These cards provide farmers with the nutrient status of their soil and its composition. This is helping them decide what is needed for good soil health," PM Modi stated. PM Modi said that a huge campaign was launched to give soil health cards to the farmers in the country when they were not aware of soil health. "In this year's Budget, we've announced natural farming along the Ganga river corridor will be promoted. In March, we have begun the rejuvenation project of 13 rivers. It will also help in increasing the forest cover by over 7,400 sq km," he added. "The policies related to biodiversity and wildlife that India is following today have also led to a record increase in the number of wildlife. Today, India has achieved 10 percent ethanol blending in petrol five months ahead of its target," he further said. The movement was started by Sadhguru in March 2022, who embarked on a 100-day motorcycle journey passing through 27 countries. June 5 marks the 75th day of the 100-day journey. World Environment Day is celebrated annually on June 5. It offers a global platform for inspiring positive change in the environment. It also pushes individuals to think about what they consume from the ecosystem and gives them a chance to build a greener future. (ANI)
The woman, Badami Devi, appeared before the judge in a civil court here and claimed that the CBI had declared her dead.

"Huzoor (sir), I am alive. I have been declared dead by the CBI. This has been done under a well-thought-out conspiracy," the woman told the court.

The woman showed her identification proof in court including a voter ID card, and a PAN card.

The petitioner's advocate Sharad Sinha said that Badami Devi was a key witness in the case and a report filed by the CBI on May 24 declared her dead.

Advocate Sinha raised further questions on CBI and called it a "big negligence" on the investigating agency's part.

"It is big negligence on CBI's part. What will happen if the nation's biggest investigating agency will act like this?" Sinha asked.

He further stated that the CBI did not even contact the woman and declared the woman dead, moreover, a report was also submitted.

The court issued a show-cause notice to the CBI over the matter.

Ranjan, the Siwan bureau chief of Hindi daily Hindustan, was shot dead in May 2017. He was gunned down by motorbike-borne criminals near the busy Station Road at Siwan in north Bihar.

Ranjan's widow Asha Ranjan had sought direction for the registration of an FIR against RJD leader Shahabuddin and Tej Pratap Yadav for "conspiracy and harbouring and sheltering the proclaimed offenders" in the murder case.

In 2017, the CBI took custody of Mohammad Shahabuddin, whose name had cropped up as an accused in the investigation. However, in March 2018, the Supreme Court had closed proceedings against Tej Pratap in connection with this case. (ANI)
Khanduri reached the Chief Minister's residence on Sunday and presented a sapling to the Dhami on the occasion of World Environment Day.

Chief Minister Dhami and Khanduri discussed several issues related to the development of the state during their meeting.

During the meeting, discussions were held between CM and the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly on various topics related to the development of the state. The two leaders also discussed the preparations for the upcoming budget session of the Assembly to be held from June 14.

Khanduri also put forward the issues related to her Assembly constituency Kotdwar before the Chief Minister.

Dhami won the Champawat bypolls with a margin of over 55,000 votes.

This was a much-needed victory for Dhami to continue as the Chief Minister as he had lost the state Assembly polls held earlier this year despite the BJP's landslide victory in the state.

He secured 58,258 votes against the Congress candidate Nirmala Gahatodi who grabbed only 3,233 votes.

Apart from Dhami and Gahatodi, Manoj Kumar Bhatt from Samajwadi Party and Independent candidate Himanshu Gadkoti were also in the fray. The polling took place on May 31 and votes were counted on Friday.

Dhami had lost the Khatima seat in the 2022 State Assembly by-polls and hence contested from Champawat to become an MLA. According to the Constitution, he needed to fulfil this requirement within six months of being sworn in to continue being the state Chief Minister.

Dhami lost the Khatima constituency to candidate Bhuwan Chandra Kapri by a margin of 6,579 votes in assembly elections. Later, BJP MLA Kailash Gehtori resigned from the Champawat assembly seat to pave the way for Dhami to contest the said by-polls.

After the massive victory, congratulations poured in for Dhami from his party leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi. (ANI)
The horrific road accident happened on Shaheed Path in the late-night hours.

A dumper coming from Jhansi hit the parked truck from behind. A fire broke out in the dumper after the collision.

The fire brigade brought the fire under control and pulled the body of the driver and the helper out of the dumper.

The deceased were identified as Ankit Yadav and Yashveer Singh.

Further investigation into the accident is underway. (ANI)
After the Enforcement Directorate summoned Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi in the National Herald case, Shiv Sena in its mouthpiece Saamana took a dig at the central government and asked whether summons would be issued to former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru too. In its editorial, Saamana, the Shiv Sena said "the political importance of the National Herald, started by Pandit Nehru, has lost its importance long ago, but the politics over it still continues". It emphasized that National Herald was started as a mission for freedom struggle and not as a business to earn money. "This newspaper was started for the freedom struggle of the country and the prime objective was to drive out the British from the country. Nehru started this newspaper in the year 1937. At that time Nehru, Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Patel were the main pillars of this newspaper. The Herald was popular at that time as an outspoken spokesperson for the freedom struggle," the editorial said. It said the National Herald case does not require much importance now. "Subramanian Swamy alleged that a company, which had no business, became the owner of Rs 2,000 crore instead of Rs 50 lakh. Motilal Vora, Oscar Fernandes, Suman Dubey and Sam Pitroda were also made accused among other directors of this company, but Sonia and Rahul remained in limelight. There was no money laundering anywhere in this entire case. But still, ED entered into it," said the Shiv Sena mouthpiece. The editorial further said, "In the National Herald case, the transaction was done to repay the loan and not for misconduct. In this entire episode, Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi have been made accused. Will a few summons in the name of Nehru be pasted on his memorial? Some souls will calm down only after Pandit Nehru gets notice from ED and CBI." The ED on Friday issued fresh summons to Rahul Gandhi in the National Herald case, which was closed by the investigating agency in 2015 and asked the Congress MP to join the investigation on June 13. Earlier, the central investigating agency had summoned the leader and his mother and Congress interim President Sonia Gandhi to join the probe on June 8. ED's move followed the questioning of senior Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge and Congress Treasurer Pawan Bansal in April this year. (ANI)
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will be on an official visit to Vietnam between June 8-10 at the invitation of Vietnam's Minister of National Defence General Phan Van Giang. Singh will start his visit by paying respects to Late President Ho Chi Minh at his Mausoleum in Hanoi. According to the Ministry of Defence, Singh will hold bilateral talks with General Phan Van Giang, during which both the Ministers will review defence cooperation between the two countries and explore new initiatives to further strengthen the defence engagements. The two Ministers will also exchange views on regional and global issues of shared interest. The Defence Minister is also scheduled to call on the President of Vietnam Nguyen Xuan Phuc and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh. At the Hong Ha Shipyard in Hai Phong, Singh will preside over the handing over ceremony of 12 high-speed Guard Boats constructed under the Government of India's USD 100 million Defence Line of Credit to Vietnam. This project is significant in the context of the growing defence industry cooperation with Vietnam. During the visit, the Defence Minister will also visit the training institutions of Vietnam at Nha Trang, including the Telecommunication University where an Army Software Park is being established with USD 5 million grant from Government of India. He will also attend a community event organised by the Embassy of India, Hanoi and interact with the Indian diaspora in Vietnam. India and Vietnam share a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership since 2016 and defence cooperation is a key pillar of this partnership. Vietnam is an important partner in India's Act East policy and the Indo-Pacific vision, said the Ministry. Bilateral defence engagements have expanded over a period of time to include wide-ranging contacts between the two countries, including defence policy dialogues, military-to-military exchanges, high-level visits, capacity building and training programmes, cooperation in UN Peace Keeping, ship visits and bilateral exercises. The Defence Minister's visit on the historic occasion of 50 years of establishment of India-Vietnam Diplomatic relations and 75 years of India's Independence will further consolidate the bilateral defence cooperation and the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. (ANI)
U.S. World War II veteran nurse Betty Huffman Rosevear is greeted during celebrations for the 78th D-Day anniversary in Sainte-Mere-Eglise, France, on June 5, 2022. (Jean-Francois Monier/Getty-AFP)

RANVILLE, France  More than 20 British World War II veterans gathered Sunday near Pegasus Bridge in northwestern France, one of the first sites liberated by Allied forces from Nazi Germany, for commemorations honoring the nearly 160,000 troops from Britain, the U.S., Canada and other nations who landed in Normandy on June 6, 1944.

Veterans, their families and French and international visitors braved the rainy weather to take part in series of events this weekend and on Monday for the 78th anniversary of D-Day.

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This years D-Day anniversary comes after two successive years of the COVID-19 pandemic restricted or deterred visitors. Many felt the celebrations paying tribute to those who brought peace and freedom on the continent held special meaning this year as war is raging again in Europe since Russias invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24.

Dozens of U.S. veterans were also attending events in the region, ahead of Mondays ceremony at the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial, home to the gravesites of 9,386 who died fighting on D-Day and in the operations that followed.

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Peter Smoothy, 97, served in the British Royal Navy and landed on the beaches of Normandy on D-Day.

The first thing I remember are the poor lads who didnt come back ... Its a long time ago now, nearly 80 years ... And here we are still living, he told The Associated Press. Were thinking about all these poor lads who didnt get off the beach that day, their last day, but theyre always in our minds.

Welcomed to the sound of bagpipes at the Pegasus Memorial in the French town of Ranville, British veterans attended a ceremony commemorating a key operation in the first minutes of the Allied invasion of Normandy, when troops had to take control a strategically crucial bridge.

Bill Gladden, 98, took part to the D-Day British airborne operation and was later shot while defending the bridge.

I landed on D-Day and was injured on the 18th of June ... So I was three years at the hospital, he said.

Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 18 Gen. Dwight Eisenhower tells paratroopers in Britain on June 5, 1944: "Full victory  nothing else," hours before the D-Day invasion. (U.S. Army Signal Corps)

Meanwhile, on the British side of the Channel, then 17-year-old Mary Scott was working at the communications center in Portsmouth, listening to the coded messages coming from the front line and passing them on as part of the operations on Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno and Sword Beaches.

The war was in my ears, she recalled, describing the radio machine she operated via levers.

When they (communication officers) had to respond to my messages and they lifted their lever, you heard all the sounds of the men on the beaches: bombs, machine guns, men shouting, screaming.

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Scott, who will soon turn 96, said she got very emotional when arriving to Normandy on Saturday on a trip organized by the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans. She was in tears when seeing the D-Day beaches.

Suddenly I thought maybe some of those young men I spoke to... that they had died, she said.

The symbol is even stronger as across the Channel, Queen Elizabeth II, who served in World War II as an army driver and mechanic, is celebrating her 70 years on the throne.

Women were involved, Scott stressed. I mean, Im enormously proud to have been a minute part of Operation Overlord.

Scotts face turned to sadness when she mentioned the war in Ukraine.

Why cant we learn from past experiences? Why cant we do that? Whats wrong with us? she asked. War should teach us something but it never penetrates for very long.

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Many visitors this year came to see the monuments marking the key moments of the fight and show their gratitude to the soldiers. World War II history enthusiasts dressed in wartime uniforms were seen in jeeps and military vehicles on the small roads of Normandy.

Greg Jensen, 51, came with his 20-year-old daughter from Dallas. On Saturday, they visited the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial, overlooking Omaha Beach.

I took a moment to just hold the sand and you think, gosh, the blood that was spilled to give me that moment and the freedom to hold that sand, he said. That was emotional for me.

I hope a lot of this younger generation is watching because we cant forget what happened 78 years ago, Jensen said, especially thinking of the fighting in Ukraine.

Andy Hamilton, a 57-year-old retired police officer, came on holiday with his family, including his two 8-year-old grandsons, from Shropshire in England.

Were now showing our respects of the sites here and to give the grandchildren a sense of what World War II was like ... and the amount of people that have given their lives to sacrifice for the freedom of everyone, he said.

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On D-Day, Allied troops landed on the beaches code-named Omaha, Utah, Juno, Sword and Gold, carried by 7,000 boats. On that single day, 4,414 Allied soldiers lost their lives, 2,501 of them Americans. More than 5,000 were wounded. On the German side, several thousand were killed or wounded.
After a violent clash broke out in Kanpur on Friday, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed and the security has been beefed up between Yateem Khana and Parade crossroads while the accused were interrogated, informed the officials on Sunday. "SIT has been formed in the Kanpur violence case and action will be taken against those who have done the work of erasing the CCTV footage," said Kanpur Police Commissioner Vijay Singh Meena. Huge security has been detailed in the area with an aim to maintain peace and keep the situation under control. "The situation is under control and heavy police force has been deployed on the spot, while the interrogation of the arrested accused is going on," informed Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), Akmal Khan. A violent clash broke out between two groups belonging to different communities allegedly over a market shutdown in Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh on Friday. Two persons and one policeman were injured in the aftermath of the clashes. The violence started after some people tried to shut down shops which was opposed by the other group, said the police. As many as 36 persons were arrested and 3 FIRs have been registered in the Kanpur violence case and further investigations are underway. Hayat Jaffar Hashmi, the main accused in the Kanpur violence case was arrested along with three other masterminds on Saturday. Four men involved in the conspiracy were identified, tracked, and arrested. "We will investigate if they had any links with PFI. Action will be taken under Gangster Act, and NSA and their properties will be seized," added the Kanpur CP. Further investigations in the matter are underway. (ANI)
Two persons have been arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting a minor girl in Hyderabad, said the police on Sunday. This comes days after a 17-year-old girl was allegedly gang-raped when she was returning home after a party in the Jubilee Hills area of Hyderabad on May 28. In the latest incident, the minor girl went missing on May 31 and later her relatives approached the police. On the basis of their complaint, a case was registered under section 363 of the Indian Penal Code. Later, the police team found her while patrolling in the area. The accused have been identified as cab driver Shaik Kaleem Ali alias Kaleem and Mohammed Luqman Ahmed Yazdani alias Luqman. "During the investigation, the police patrol team at about 5 am on June 1 located the girl. She was later referred to Bharosa Centre for recording her statement. In her statement, the minor said that she was going to Pahadi Shareef to her parents' house," Inspector of Police, Moghalpura Police Station, Hyderabad said. As per the police, the minor said that the accused, Shaik Kaleem Ali alias Kaleem, a cab driver, saw that she was alone and asked her if she wants to go somewhere. "The minor girl replied she wants to go to Shaheen Nagar as she does not have money. Kaleem lured the minor girl to drop her at her house and took her in his car. On the way at about 10 pm, he picked the second accused Mohammed Luqman Ahmed Yazdani alias Luqman. They both took her to the house of accused Luqman situated at Kondurg village, where the accused persons Kaleem and Luqman forcibly committed sexual assault on a minor girl," the police said. The police further informed that Kaleem later dropped the minor in Sultanshahi in his cab at about 5 AM. The police altered the sections of the IPC based on the minor's statement at Bharosa Centre. (ANI)
The Pakistani crew had thrown the consignment of around 50 kg of drugs near the creek area in the Kutch region of Gujarat on May 30 to avoid being caught with drugs in the Indian maritime territory.

"ATS will take over custody as material evidence of the same case. The Pakistani boat will now be liable for prosecution under the value of drugs is estimated to be above Rs 200 crore," sources in security forces told ANI.

Indian Coast Guard Ship Arinjay, on the basis of intelligence input by ATS (Gujarat), had jointly apprehended Pakistani boat Al Noman with seven crew on the intervening night of May 30 and 31.

The boat was carrying a consignment of contraband. (ANI)
Bharatiya Janata Party leader Nupur Sharma on Sunday withdrew her statement by saying that "it was never her intention to hurt anyone's religious feelings", hours after the Bharatiya Janata Party suspended her from the party's primary membership over alleged inflammatory remarks against minorities. Sharma penned down a note and shared it on her Twitter handle today wherein she wrote, "I have been attending TV debates for the past many days where our Mahadev was being insulted and disrespected continuously. It was mockingly being said that it is not Shivling but a fountain. The Shivling was also being ridiculed by comparing it to roadside signs and poles in Delhi." "I could not tolerate this continuous insult and disrespect towards our Mahadev and I said some things in response to it. If my words have caused discomfort or hurt religious feelings of anyone whatsoever, I hereby unconditionally withdraw my statement. It was never my intention to hurt anyone's religious feelings--Nupur Sharma," she wrote. The Bharatiya Janata Party on Sunday suspended its spokesperson Nupur Sharma from the party's primary membership and expelled its Delhi media head Naveen Kumar Jindal after their alleged inflammatory remarks against minorities. The development comes hours after the party issued a statement seeking to defuse the row. Expelling Jindal, a communication from its Delhi BJP president Adesh Gupta said, "Your primary membership is immediately terminated and you are expelled from the party." Further, a communication to Sharma from the party's disciplinary committee said she has expressed views contrary to the party's position on various matters, which is in clear violation of its constitution. Member secretary of BJP's central disciplinary committee, Om Pathak in a letter to Sharma said, "You have expressed views contrary to the Party's position on various matters, which is in clear violation of Rule 10 (a) of constitution of the BJP. I have been directed to convey to you that pending further inquiry, you are suspended from the party and from your responsibilities/assignments if any, with immediate effect." Earlier in the day, BJP said in a statement issued by its general secretary Arun Singh, "The BJP strongly denounces insult of any religious personalities of any religion. The Bharatiya Janata Party is also against any ideology which insults or demeans any section or religion. The BJP does not promote such people or philosophy." BJP stated that it "respects all religions" and is "strongly against any ideology which insults or demeans any sect or religion". "During the thousands of years of the history of India every religion has blossomed and flourished. The Bharatiya Janata Party respects all religions," the brief statement said. "India's Constitution gives the right to every citizen to practise any religion of his/her choice and to honour and respect every religion. As India celebrates 75th year of its independence, we are committed to making India a great country where all are equal and everyone lives with dignity, where all are committed to India's unity and integrity, where all enjoy the fruits of growth and development," it said. However, the official statement made no direct mention of any incident or comment made by Sharma during the debate. The Mumbai police registered an FIR against Sharma based on a complaint by Irfan Shaikh, joint secretary of the Mumbai wing of Raza Academy. It stated that Sharma, in a news debate on the Gyanvapi issue, allegedly made controversial comments about Prophet Muhammad. Moreover, Jindal allegedly tweeted against the interests of the country. (ANI)
All accused, including key conspirator Hayat Zafar Hashmi, were sent to 14-day judicial remand on Sunday in connection with the Kanpur violence case. They were taken to District Jail in Kanpur by the police after they were sent on a 14-day remand. A violent clash broke out between two groups belonging to different communities allegedly over a market shutdown in Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh on Friday. As many as 36 persons were arrested and 3 FIRs have been registered in the Kanpur violence case and further investigations are underway. Earlier on Saturday, the Uttar Pradesh Police had said the main accused in the Kanpur violence case, Hayat Jaffar Hashmi has been arrested along with three other masterminds. Four men involved in the conspiracy were identified, tracked, and arrested. "We will investigate if they had any links with PFI. Action will be taken under Gangster Act, and NSA and their properties will be seized," the Kanpur CP said. The four people arrested have been identified as Hayat Jaffar Hashmi, Javed Ahmed Khan, Mohammad Rahil & Mohammad Suffian. "All of them are associated with Maulana Ali Jauhar Fans Association. We'll further ask the court to send them on a 14-days remand," said Meena. After a clash, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed and the security has been beefed up between Yateem Khana and Parade crossroads while the accused were interrogated, informed the officials on Sunday. Huge security has been detailed in the area with an aim to maintain peace and keep the situation under control. The violence started after some people tried to shut down shops which were opposed by the other group, said the police. Two persons and one policeman were injured in the aftermath of the clashes. Hayat Jaffar Hashmi, the main accused in the Kanpur violence case was arrested along with three other masterminds on Saturday. Further investigation into the matter is underway. (ANI)
Kishtwar Police and Security Forces (17 RR) on Sunday arrested one terrorist of Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) identified as Talib Hussain in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district. According to the police, Talib Hussain joined the terrorist ranks of the HM outfit in the year 2016 and remained active along with other terrorists of Kishtwar and remained instrumental in reviving militancy by way of recruiting youths in militancy. "But later on, due to some squabble with other HM terrorists left HM group and remained at large, however, Kishtwar Police worked meticulously on the leads obtained about his whereabouts and pre emptied his move to affect the revival of militancy in the area as he got arrested after dodging the Police and other security agencies for a long time," said the police. An FIR under relevant sections of law has been registered in police station Kishtwar and investigations have been taken up, the police added. (ANI)
Right after the BJP expelled its Delhi media head Naveen Kumar Jindal from the party over alleged controversial remarks against minorities, he clarified that he respects people of all faiths. In a tweet on Sunday, he wrote, "I respect the faith of all religions but I question only those mindsets who spread hatred by using indecent comments on our deities. I just asked a question. It does not mean that we are against any religion." The BJP on Sunday suspended its spokesperson Nupur Sharma from the party's primary membership and expelled its Delhi media head Naveen Kumar Jindal after their alleged controversial remarks on minorities. While Sharma's comments during a TV debate aimed at the founder of Islam have drawn the ire of Muslim groups, Jindal also posted objectionable tweets, deleted later, and has been accused of often posting inciting comments. Their comments also sparked a Twitter trend calling for boycotting Indian products in some countries. Expelling Jindal, a communication from its Delhi BJP president Adesh Gupta said, "Your primary membership is immediately terminated and you are expelled from the party." Further, a communication to Sharma from the party's disciplinary committee said she has expressed views contrary to the party's position on various matters, which is in clear violation of its constitution. Member secretary of BJP's central disciplinary committee, Om Pathak in a letter to Sharma said, "You have expressed views contrary to the Party's position on various matters, which is in clear violation of Rule 10 (a) of the constitution of the BJP. I have been directed to convey to you that pending further inquiry, you are suspended from the party and from your responsibilities/assignments if any, with immediate effect." Earlier in the day, BJP said in a statement issued by its general secretary Arun Singh, "The BJP strongly denounces insult of any religious personalities of any religion. The Bharatiya Janata Party is also against any ideology which insults or demeans any section or religion. The BJP does not promote such people or philosophy." BJP stated that it "respects all religions" and is "strongly against any ideology which insults or demeans any sect or religion". "During the thousands of years of the history of India, every religion has blossomed and flourished. The Bharatiya Janata Party respects all religions," the brief statement said. "India's constitution gives the right to every citizen to practise any religion of his/her choice and to honour and respect every religion. As India celebrates the 75th year of its independence, we are committed to making India a great country where all are equal and everyone lives with dignity, where all are committed to India's unity and integrity, and where all enjoy the fruits of growth and development," it said. However, the official statement by the BJP made no direct mention of any incident or comment made by Sharma during the debate. The Mumbai police registered an FIR against Sharma based on a complaint by Irfan Shaikh, joint secretary of the Mumbai wing of Raza Academy. It stated that Sharma, in a news debate on the Gyanvapi issue, allegedly made controversial comments about Prophet Muhammad. Moreover, Jindal allegedly tweeted against the interests of the country. (ANI)
"As per Uttrakhand local Administration, 22 pilgrims died and six inured NDRF team rush to spot and any moment will reach there," MoS Home Nityanand Rai told ANI.

"A bus carrying 28 pilgrims from Panna district in Madhya Pradesh fell into a gorge near Damta in Uttarkashi district. Bodies of 6 people recovered while 6 injured have been sent to the hospital. Police & SDRF on the spot," said DGP Ashok Kumar.

Expressing grief over the accident, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami directed the district administration to carry out relief and rescue work expeditiously.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami reached Disaster Control Room, Secretariat.

The Chief Minister has given instructions to make arrangements for proper treatment of the injured.

Rescue operations are underway. (ANI)
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national president JP Nadda on Sunday said that India alone contributes around 40 per cent of the world's total online transactions. BJP president made this remark while addressing the inauguration ceremony of district offices in Ranchi. Nadda also listed the development works of the BJP government. "We brought digital payments to everyone. Vegetable vendors also take digital payments now. Of the world's total online transactions, 40 per cent is contributed by India alone," he said. Highlighting the achievement of the country and stating that the country is changing and evolving, the BJP chief claimed, "Before 2014, there were 6 crore broadband users, but today it has become 78 crores. Earlier, 100-Gram Panchayats were connected with broadband optical fibre whereas, in today's time, 2.5 lakh gram panchayats are taking advantage of this service. We are not going to stop here, our target is to spread this service to 6 lakh villages." BJP chief further said that due to the policies of the Modi government, the benefits of government schemes are getting directly to the beneficiaries today. "Now by pressing a button, the benefit of Kisan Samman Nidhi has reached 23 thousand crore rupees in the account of 10 crore farmers in 10 seconds," he added. He said that the party is celebrating its eight years of service, good governance and poor welfare. "Our government has completed eight years on May 30. We have not been able to celebrate for the last two years due to coronavirus infection. During the corona period, when all the parties disappeared, went into isolation, then our workers arranged ration to essential items to crores of people," he said. He further informed that the party will open offices in 724 districts and work has started in 512 districts and 230 offices have been built, while the construction work is going on about 150 offices. "The offices that are being built across the country are not being built like this; there is a huge contribution of PM Narendra Modi behind this. In 2014, when the BJP government was formed with a clear majority, then at that time the Prime Minister put our imagination in front of us that whether the BJP can have offices in all the districts of the country? At that time Amit Shah became the President, and he took the responsibility to open offices in every district. I am happy to inform you that offices are to be opened in 724 districts, now office work has started in 512 districts and 230 offices have been built, construction work is going on about 150 offices," he added. (ANI)
According to the police, Salim Khan found the letter on a bench where he sits daily after jogging in the morning. He found the letter at around 7.30 AM-8.00 AM in his and Salman's name, said the police.

As per the police, an unsigned letter issuing threats to Salman Khan and his father Salim Khan was found near the Bandra Bandstand promenade in Mumbai on Sunday.

Bandra Police has filed an FIR against an unknown person and a further probe is underway, Mumbai Police said. (ANI)
A 12-year-old girl shot her 8-year-old neighbor Saturday afternoon on the Far South Side after saying the gun was not real.

The 8-year-old was playing with her 7-year-old sister in a backyard in the 9100 block of South Paxton Avenue in the Pill Hill area about 4 p.m. when their 12-year-old next-door neighbor came over and wanted the girls to play, according to a police report.

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The 12-year-old went to her home briefly and returned with a gun and began playing with it, telling the others its not real, according to a police report.

The 12-year-old girl then fired a round into the ground and a fragment hit the 8-year-old, causing a graze wound to her right thigh, the report said. She was taken in good condition to Comer Childrens Hospital.

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Earlier, police had said the victim was 6.

One shell casing was found and police located the 12-year-old girls mother but the gun had not been found.

Area 2 detectives were investigating.
Former Maharashtra Chief Minister and senior BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday said he has tested positive for COVID-19 and is in home isolation. Fadnavis, who is the leader of opposition in the Maharashtra assembly, had earlier also contracted the viral infection in October 2020. On Sunday, the former state chief minister in a tweet said, "I have tested COVID-19 positive and in home isolation. Taking medication and treatment as per the doctor's advice. Those who have come in contact with me are advised to get COVID-19 tests done. Take care everyone!" Earlier, when Fadnavis contracted the infection in 2020, he had undergone treatment in a government hospital. On Sunday, Maharashtra logged 1,494 cases which pushed the total figure to 78,93,197. As many as 614 patients recovered and one more patient succumbed to the virus, taking the total number of recoveries and deaths to 77,38,564 and 1,47,866 respectively. A day ago, state health minister Rajesh Tope said that wearing masks is not mandatory yet in public places, but appealed to people to wear them in areas of COVID-19 surge. "The COVID-19 task force met this week and it was decided to appeal to the citizens to use masks both in crowded places as well as closed places like buses, trains, schools and offices. This is an appeal and we have not made masks compulsory till now," Tope said in Pune. He said the current surge in cases in Maharashtra was confined to specific districts including Mumbai Metropolitan Region, Thane, Palghar and Raigad. Maharashtra environment and tourism minister Aaditya Thackeray on Sunday said the state could be seeing the fourth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, while urging people not to panic. Speaking to reporters, Thackeray said COVID-19 related deaths are not increasing in the state. The COVID-19 cases in India have crossed the 4,000-mark for the second time in the past four days on Sunday, as the country logged 4,270 fresh infections in the past 24 hours, according to the Union Health Ministry. On Friday, after nearly three months, the daily tally of COVID-19 cases in India had crossed the 4,000-mark with the country recording 4,041 fresh infections. However, the country reported a marginal dip yesterday with 3,962 new COVID cases. With this, India's active COVID caseload stands at 24,052, constituting 1.03 per cent of the country's total positive cases. (ANI)
Apart from Rudraksha, Gehlot also planted saplings of Champaka and highly fragrant flower Manoranjan at Raj Bhavan. In the presence of Dr Shalini Rajneesh, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary to Government, Department of Youth and Sports, Commissioner, NSS Volunteers, and several officials, a total of 20 saplings were planted in Raj Bhavan.

On the occasion, the Governor appealed to the people to plant saplings and nurture nature, as their contribution to protect the environment.

To mark the importance of 'Mother Nature', World Environment Day is celebrated each year on June 5 to spread awareness regarding the protection and nurturing of the environment to make Earth a better place to live.

Speaking of the history behind this day, World Environment Day was established in 1972 by the UN General Assembly at the time of the Stockholm Conference and the day was first celebrated in the year 1974. (ANI)
"They are not even sparing girls and women now. It is their desperation that they are making such killings to provoke security forces. I know the administration and security forces would do their work with promptness," Sinha said.

On Friday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired a high-level security review meeting on Jammu and Kashmir in the wake of a series of targeted killings in the Union Territory.

The move comes in the wake of the recent killings of Kashmiri Pandits in Jammu and Kashmir. Kashmiri Pandits are holding protests in Srinagar against the killings by terrorists.

A 36-year-old migrant Kashmiri Pandit and high school teacher Rajni Bala was shot dead by terrorists in the Kulgam district of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday.

Earlier this month, two civilians - including Kashmiri Pandit employee Rahul Bhat -- and three off-duty policemen were killed in Kashmir by the terrorists.

These deaths follow a series of killings that have been happening since August 5, 2019, the day when the Union government stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its special status and downgraded it to Union territory while simultaneously bifurcating the region into Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh UTs. (ANI)
According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) East, the three girls were reportedly kidnapped from Gagua in Uttar Pradesh's Gorakhpur district.

The Uttar Pradesh Police team from the Gagua police station arrived in Delhi's Mandawali police station to trace them.

"The only clue in the present case was the mobile location," the DCP said.

Subsequently, a team of Mandawali police was constituted and started the search in the area of West Vinod Nagar.

CCTV cameras at different locations in the area were checked and the footage was also analysed.

"With the help of the local public and informers ultimately all the three were traced to a house in West Vinod Nagar," an official said.

The DCP said the owner of this house lives somewhere else and clues about the accused behind the kidnapping have also been found.

Further investigation is on. (ANI)
Women are more frustrated than men by gendered expectations placed on them at work, according to new Cornell University research, even when those expectations appear to signal women's virtues and are seen as important for workplace advancement. The research was published in the 'Journal of Personality and Social Psychology'. Both women and men face gendered pressures at work. While men are expected to display independent qualities, like being assertive, women are expected to display communal qualities, like being collaborative, prior research shows. Recent polling reveals that beliefs that women possess positive communal qualities are on the rise in the U.S., and ILR School research has found that women themselves view qualities like collaborativeness and skill at interaction as relevant to success and advancement at work. Still, when women and men are faced with positive gendered stereotypes, women experience more frustration and less motivation to comply with the expectation than men, according to Devon Proudfoot, assistant professor of human resource studies in the ILR School and co-author of "Communal Expectations Conflict With Autonomy Motives: The Western Drive for Autonomy Shapes Women's Negative Responses to Positive Gender Stereotypes." "We find that one reason why women feel more frustrated than men by these positive gendered expectations is that women and men face gender stereotypes that differ in the extent to which they affirm a sense of autonomy," Proudfoot said. "In the Western world, people tend to strive to maintain an autonomous sense of self. But while Western society is subtly communicating that an ideal self is an autonomous, independent self, society is also telling women that they should be interdependent and connected to others. We find that this conflict helps explain women's frustration toward the positive gender stereotypes they experience." In the paper, Proudfoot and her co-author, Aaron Kay of Duke University, examined how women feel about positive gendered stereotypes in the U.S., a Western individualistic culture. Further, the duo engaged in cross-cultural comparison, finding that women in a non-Western collectivistic culture, in this case, India, do not feel the same resentment. "Our findings provide initial evidence that culture influences the way that women and men respond to gender stereotypes," Proudfoot said. "We show that it's the interaction between cultural models of ideal selfhood and the expectations placed on women and men that shape how women and men experience gendered pressures." Proudfoot, whose work often examines stereotyping and discrimination, as well as what motivates employee attitudes and behaviour, led participants through five studies to gauge their reactions to positive gender stereotypes. The centrepiece of each study focused on personal experience and how the participant felt as a result. "For instance, in some studies, we ask participants to recall a time when they were expected to act a certain way because of their gender," Proudfoot said. "What we find is that women report more anger and frustration when they were expected to be collaborative or socially skilled than men experienced when they were expected to be assertive or decisive." To further examine their theory, Proudfoot and Kay compared women and men in the U.S. with women and men in India, a country that has a collectivistic culture in which people tend to strive for social connection and interdependence with others. They found that women in India did not experience the same feelings of anger and frustration, as the positive gender stereotypes align with cultural goals. "What I find interesting is thinking how these Western cultural ideals around autonomy and independence intersect with gender and gendered expectations," Proudfoot said. "Our research considers how people's experiences of gendered trait expectations are dependent on the cultural context they grew up in and the ideal model of self-promoted by that culture."The research suggests that complimenting women employees for being collaborative or socially skilled could backfire, she said. "Reinforcing these types of gender stereotypes could have negative emotional and motivational consequences for women in the workplace," Proudfoot said. (ANI)
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Atishi on Sunday alleged that it appeared that Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena has been directed by the Centre to interfere in Arvind Kejriwal government's work and to stay away from law and order in the national capital. Speaking to ANI, the AAP leader said, "There are very clear constitutional arrangements in Delhi, those constitutional arrangements say that the land, law and order and police are with the Central Government and their nominee Lieutenant Governor. Today, in a special situation, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) also comes under them but all other departments like electricity, water, schools, hospitals and finance, come under the elected government of Delhi." She slammed the new Lieutenant Governor for 'not acting pro-actively' on some heinous crimes that took place in the national capital in the last 10 days and alleged that he had been "interfering" in the Delhi government's work. "Our question is for Lieutenant Governor that ten days ago when you took an oath, you said that you will be seen on the streets of Delhi, not in air-conditioned offices. So in the last 10 days, did Lieutenant Governor inspect even a single police station?" she asked. She further listed some of the crimes which took place since Saxena resumed charges and asked him the reason for not acting strictly in these cases. "On May 27, an auto-rickshaw driver was stabbed to death in Sangam Vihar. Did he visit the Sangam Vihar police station? A woman has been sexually harassed in Jor Bagh. Why the LG did not act in these cases. The Dwarka DCP recently misbehaved with a woman at a restaurant in Kailash Colony. Did the LG call a meeting of all the Delhi Police officers on the matter?" she added. Further accusing the Central government and the LG, Atishi said, "It seems that the central government has sent him saying that stay away from the police, only interfering in Arvind Kejriwal's government is your job because this is what the actions of LG are telling." He further said that Lieutenant Governor goes to the Delhi government department, does inspections and gives instructions to them. "But the officers of Delhi government are called by LG, he goes to the Delhi government department and does inspection, he gives orders and instructions. LG should understand he himself is sitting on a constitutional post, and sitting on a constitutional post, he is violating the constitution. It is not good," he added. (ANI)
Economic Offences Wing, Delhi Police arrested a man for allegedly cheating a nationalized bank on the basis of forged loan documents to obtain crores of rupees on Sunday. A case was registered under sections 177, 420, 465, 467, 468, and 120B of the Indian Penal Code and an investigation was taken up. According to Police, the accused was identified as Harjit Singh (67). Joint CP EOW Chhaya Sharma said, "The complainant and accused persons are real brothers and were directors in the accused company M/s Libra Finance and M/s Libra Leasing. In 1992, the accused company had obtained CC Limit of Rs 80 Lakhs by pledging 05 properties jointly owned by all three brothers and their wives. The said CC limit was extended from 80 Lakhs to 2 crores in 2005 and was further extended to Rs 5.5 Cr for each company in 2008 and later, to Rs 10 Cr for each company in 2010." However, the complainants had already resigned from the directorship of the accused company in 2005 and 2006. The signatures of complainants were found to be forged on loan documents so that the CC Limit can be increased on the jointly owned properties. The loan account turned NPA in 2014 and the bank initiated the SARFAESI Act proceedings against the accused company and started auctioning properties jointly owned by all three brothers. In 2015, complainants came to know about the bank loans and filed a complaint before Ludhiana police, she said. During the enquiry, the loan documents were sent to FSL Punjab and the opinion obtained regarding forgery of loan documents. After that, a case was registered in PS Sarabha Nagar and later on transferred to EOW. During the course of the investigation, it was revealed that the accused in conspiracy with bank officials and other co-accused had forged the loan documents of Punjab and Sind Bank and obtained the cash credit limit of Rs 5.75 Crores. After a long chase, the accused was finally apprehended from his house in Tagore Park. The accused Harjit Singh in conspiracy with other co-accused obtained the Cash Credit Limit from the bank for their business on the joint properties owned by complainants as well as alleged. The entire CC limit was used in the business and gradually accused Harjit Singh started defaulting on the repayments as a result, the account of the accused turned NPA, which resulted in auctioning of the properties of the complainant in view of SARFAESI proceedings. The accused used to change his telephone numbers constantly and was on the run. The dedicated efforts of the team finally led them to the hideout of the accused in Tagore Park, Delhi. An alert technical Surveillance and local enquiry on the ground helped to nab the accused. The accused was arrested and he was taken into police custody in order to unearth the entire conspiracy, police added. Further investigation is in progress. (ANI)
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday expressed grief over the bus accident in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand and extended his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the incident. Taking to Twitter, Singh said, "I am deeply saddened by the news of the bus accident in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand. Many people have lost their lives in this accident. I extend my condolences to their families and wish the injured a speedy recovery." At least 22 pilgrims were killed and six others injured after a bus they were travelling in fell into a gorge near Damta in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi district on Sunday evening. The injured were shifted to a nearby hospital. Police and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) team are on the spot. "According to Uttarakhand local administration, 22 pilgrims died and six others were injured. NDRF team is rushing to the spot and will reach any moment," Minister of State Home Nityanand Rai told ANI. "15 bodies have been recovered so far after a bus carrying 28 pilgrims fell into a gorge near Damta in Uttarkashi district," said Uttarakhand DGP Ashok Kumar. Union home minister Amit Shah has expressed his grief at the loss of lives in the accident and spoken to Chief Minisiter Pushkar Singh Dhami. "It is very sad to hear about the bus of devotees falling into the gorge in Uttarakhand. I have spoken to the chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. Local administration and SDRF teams are engaged in rescue work and the injured are being taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. NDRF is also reaching there soon," the Union home minister Amit Shah tweeted. The Prime Minister has announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each from PMNRF for the next of kin of those who lost their lives in the accident, Rs 50,000 each for the injured. Governor Lt general Gurmeet Singh (Seni) has expressed grief over the loss of lives in the accident and extended his condolences to the bereaved families.The governor has wished speedy recovery to the injured. (ANI)
The 1.2m Trisonic wind tunnel at National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) has completed 55 years of service, with a milestone of 55,000 blowdowns. As per a press release from National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL), the 1.2m Trisonic wind tunnel at National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL), Bengaluru was built during 1963-67 by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). The first blowdown (test) was conducted on May 29, 1967. The vision of late Dr P Neelakantan, the first Director of CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories enabled the realization of this facility, which is the major workhorse for all the national aerospace programmes. The highest speed of this tunnel is Mach 4.0 which is four times the speed of sound. The mission of this facility is to provide advanced technology solutions to national aerospace programs, fighter aircraft, defence systems, launch vehicles and satellites and space systems. At that time, there was hardly any aerodynamic test requirement in the country. This wind tunnel was primarily conceived for research and development in experimental aerodynamics, the release added. Subsequently, as the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) and Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) started developing of launch vehicles, missiles and aircraft, the need for high-speed wind tunnel tests in the 1.2m wind tunnel increased. To name a few, DRDO's missiles such as Agni, Akaash, Prithvi, Pralay, SRSAM, LRSAM, ASTRA, NAG, LRAShM, BrahMos, Nirbhay, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, etc. were characterized in this facility. Similarly, aerodynamic characterization of ISRO's launch vehicles such as ASLV, PSLV, SLV, SSLV, GSLV, RLV and GAGANYAAN programs were carried out extensively. The nation's first Light Combat Aircraft (LCA-TEJAS) was conceived at this facility and now it is flying in the sky. Many weapon integration programs on LCA, Mirage-2000, Sukhoi-30, Jaguar, MiG aircraft etc, were successfully carried out in this facility. Currently, the 1.2m trisonic wind tunnel is the only industrial wind tunnel in the country providing the high-speed aerodynamic data for the national aerospace programmes both in the civil and military sectors. Practically each and every indigenously developed aerospace vehicle in the country has graduated out of this facility. To cater to the emerging requirements of the country, continual upgrades of the facility have been implemented in CSIR-NAL, leading to many state-of-the-art techniques related to high-speed wind tunnel testing mainly to improve the data quality, productivity and life extension of various components of the wind tunnel. This facility has completed 55 years of glorious service to the nation and has crossed the milestone of 55,000 blowdowns which is a very commendable achievement indeed. The facility shall continue to meet the experimental aerodynamic data requirement of future programs. CSIR-NAL is currently working towards setting-up of a continuous wind tunnel facility to meet the increased demand for high speed experimental aerodynamic data. (ANI)
Alleging that BJP's Ghoshamahal MLA T Raja Singh has insulted Muslims by using foul language against an Islamic scholar, Muslim cleric Moulana Ali Quadri on Sunday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to suspend him from the party. The cleric while speaking to ANI said, "BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma had insulted Islam and on the other side, Naveen Jindal also tried to instigate Muslims by hurting their religious sentiments." He said, "We had brought to the notice of BJP government regarding the matter and today the BJP had suspended Nupur Sharma and expelled Jindal. We are thankful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for that." "Such action will ensure that the 'Ganga Jamuna tehzeeb' will remain forever and the country will be able to move towards growth," said the cleric. "We also want to bring to the notice that the Hyderabad Ghoshamahal MLA had used very foul language against Huzur Khaja Garib Nawaz and has thereby insulted Muslims. I request Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take action against him also and suspend him from the party. We appeal that T Raja Singh should be suspended from the party," he added. (ANI)
Chicago police officers work the scene where an officer was shot and wounded in the 6900 block of South Sangamon Street on June 5, 2022, in Chicago's Englewood neighborhood. (Erin Hooley / Chicago Tribune)

A Chicago police officer was shot and seriously wounded Sunday afternoon during a brief gunbattle in the Englewood neighborhood on the citys South Side.

The unidentified male officer and a male offender were both wounded in the area of 69th and Sangamon streets, authorities said.

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The officer was taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center in serious but stable condition, according to police Superintendent David Brown.

At an afternoon news conference outside of the Hyde Park medical center, Brown said hed spoken with the wounded officer and his team. He described them as shook following the second shooting in less than a week in the district.

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A female officer was wounded during a traffic stop Wednesday in Englewood. The next day, a CPD canine officer and a deputy U.S. marshal were wounded during a gunbattle on the Northwest Side.

On Sunday, Brown told reporters that three uniformed Chicago police officers were riding in an unmarked car in the 6900 block of South Sangamon Street around 2 p.m., when they made a traffic stop. The car they stopped pulled into an alley with a dead end, he said.

The offender got out of the car and began firing at the officers, and there was an exchange of gunfire, Brown said. The officer was struck twice, once in the arm, once in the torso. The offender was struck as well. The offender is in critical condition, and the officer is in serious, but stable condition.

BREAKING: A Chicago Police Officer from the 7th Dist. @ChicagoCAPS07 has been shot. TheOfficer is being transported to the University of Chicago Hospital. Condition unknown. PIO in route to the hospital. Further details to follow.#ChicagoPolice  Tom Ahern (@TomAhernCPD) June 5, 2022

Brown said he didnt know how many times the offender was shot and police would hold off releasing details until video was reviewed of the incident.

Brown blamed brazenness for a 500% increase in attacks against police officers over the past two years. Offenders are brazen in harming officers, Brown told reporters.

In a statement posted Sunday on Twitter, Mayor Lori Lightfoot called on the U.S. Senate to take action to end access to illegal guns. How many officers and residents must be victims of gun violence before we act? Lightfoot said.

The second police shooting came as bad news for some Englewood residents hoping to avoid violence heading into summer.

Asiaha Butler, co-founder and CEO of the Resident Association of Greater Englewood, noted that Sundays shooting occurred during Wear Orange Weekend, a nationwide campaign advocating for an end to gun violence. Something more needs to happen than just events, she said.

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Butler said new efforts are afoot that would help bridge the gap between the police and the community and increase visibility and awareness between block clubs and neighborhood associations like R.A.G.E. But she said its difficult to reach people committing these types of crimes.

I definitely think some bold strategies will have to be implemented, Butler said. What those are, I dont know. But I think were going to have to stop doing what we normally do and start really thinking differently about the way we handle violence in the community.

Darryl Smith is president of the Englewood Political Task Force, a group that mobilizes citizens for community action. Its a sad situation when any police get shot. Youve got good police and youve got bad police, he said.

Smiths group also works to bridge the communication gap between skeptical and fearful residents and local police officers. Smiths group and other neighborhood activists worked to calm tensions between police and residents in 2020 following the death of George Floyd and the police shooting of Latrell Allen, which sparked an uproar and was linked to downtown looting.

Shootings like Sundays, Smith said, make it harder for us to try to have the community engage with the police because now a lot of people are upset when a person gets shot by the police  but we have to know all of the details, the ins and outs of all the circumstances surrounding this case, he said.

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Smith, who was in the south suburbs when he heard of the shooting, said he planned to head back to Englewood to speak with residents. Im headed back to the neighborhood to try to make sure theres some calm there because the suspect got shot, also, he said. We have to make sure there wasnt any foul play on the police side and the communitys in an uproar, so Ive got to go back and put my ears to the ground and see whats going on.
Additional Solicitor General S.V. Raju had assured the Supreme Court last month that security of the alleged conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar, currently lodged at the high-security Tihar Jail, will be taken care of, but the latter has alleged that he was yet again assaulted by officials then. "Despite assurance, Chandrashekhar was assaulted by a policeman in jail on May 13 evening. Thereafter, he was also admitted to the Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital," his lawyer Ashok Singh told IANS. He said that the court was again informed of the matter, but no urgent hearing was allowed due to its summer vacation. Chandrashekhar was arrested last year for allegedly cheating and extorting money from some high-profile people, which includes former Fortis Healthcare promoter Shivinder Mohan Singh's wife Aditi Singh. Many women Bollywood actors and models have been questioned by the Enforcement Directorate for their alleged links to Chandrashekhar. In April, he was arrested in another money laundering case linked to the 2017 Election Commission bribery case, which allegedly involved a former AIADMK leader and others. Chandrashekhar has, multiple times, claimed a threat to his life inside the prison.In a handwritten complaint lodged at the Hari Nagar Police station on March 9, he had alleged that the jail officials are threatening to kill him if he does not fulfil their demands. "I face danger.....as the whole jail administration is involved in my ongoing case with EOW," an excerpt from the complaint, accessed by IANS read. It was yet to be learnt whether any FIR was lodged in the given complaint. Born in a lower middle-class family in Bengaluru, he always dreamt of being a millionaire and to achieve his wish, he was determined to earn money by hook or by crook. He started conning people from the age of 17. In 2007, he, posing as a high ranking bureaucrat, duped around 100 people of Rs 75 crore on the pretext of providing them a job. Recently, he also duped politician T.T.V. Dhinakaran of Rs 50 crore. Delhi Police's Crime Branch arrested him on Dhinakaran's complaint and he was lodged in the Tihar Jail, but continued to run his rackets from inside the prison. He is accused of extorting Rs 200 crore from the family of ex-Fortis Healthcare and Ranbaxy Lab promoters Shivinder and Malvinder Singh within the premises of the prison. The Delhi Police had, in November 2021, filed a charge sheet against the accused conman, his wife Leena Maria Paul and 12 others in the same case of duping Malvinder Singh's wife of Rs 200 crore. The Economic Offence Wing (EOW) had written to Tihar Jail authorities to take action against 82 jail officials who allegedly helped him by providing him luxurious facilities inside the prison. (Ujwal Jalali can be reached at ujwal.j@ians.in) --IANS uj/vd ( 477 Words) 2022-06-05-21:52:30 (IANS)
Even as China's clampdown means that the commemoration of the 33rd anniversary of the Tiananmen Square massacre in Hong Kong continues to be disrupted for the second year in a row, activists in Japan more than made up by coming out in good numbers to again highlight the misdeeds of the Chinese Communist Party over the past few decades. Japanese citizens, Tibetans, Uyghurs, Mongolians and others joined their Hong Kong friends in large numbers to take a stand outside the Chinese embassy in Tokyo, and in other places across Japan. Calling for everyone never to forget Tiananmen Square, the participants highlighted the various human rights and other violations of international law by China: genocide in Xinjiang, suppression of the mother tongue in Inner Mongolia, cultural genocide in Tibet, violation of basic rights of speech and expression in Hong Kong, among others. Later in the day, the activists intend to hold a candlelight vigil to remember the thousands who died in Beijing during the early days of June 1989, and countless others who have been at the receiving end of some of the harshest measures by the Chinese authorities. They have also attempted to intimidate Tiananmen student leaders outside of China, according to Human Rights Watch (HRW). In March, the US Department of Justice revealed that five people acting as agents of the Chinese government had stalked and harassed US-based critics of the government, including Tiananmen student leader Xiong Yan, who is running for the US House of Representatives. The Chinese government has long ignored domestic and international calls for justice for the Tiananmen Massacre, and some of the sanctions that the European Union and the US imposed in response have over the years been weakened or evaded. The lack of a sustained, coordinated, international response to the massacre and ensuing crackdown is one factor in Beijing's increasingly brazen human rights violations, including the mass detention of an estimated one million Turkic Muslims in Xinjiang and the direct imposition of national security legislation in Hong Kong that suppresses fundamental freedoms. (ANI)
Marking the first judicial executions in Myanmar in decades, two people will be executed in the country by the military junta, CNN reported citing the junta on Saturday. "It's confirmed that Phyo Zayar Thaw and [Ko] Jimmy would be on the execution list," junta spokesperson Zaw Min Tun said as quoted by CNN, without giving a date. In January 2022, veteran democracy activist Ko Jimmy and former National League of Democracy lawmaker Phyo Zayar Thaw were sentenced to death, according to a statement by Myanmar's Office of the Commander-in-Chief of Defense Services. The junta accuses the two men of being "involved in terrorist acts such as explosion attacks, killing of civilians as informants," the junta spokesperson said, CNN reported. According to the news network, it's unclear whether Phyo Zayar Thaw and Ko Jimmy have denied the charges levied against them. On Friday, the UN said that it was "deeply troubled" by the decision, calling it a "blatant violation to the right to life, liberty and security of person," spokesman for the UN Secretary-General Stephane Dujarric said in a briefing, referring to an article in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. "The Secretary-General reiterates his calls for the respect of people's rights to freedom of opinion and expression and also to drop all charges against those arrested on charges related to the exercise of their fundamental freedoms and rights," Dujarric added, CNN reported. According to Amnesty International, news of the resumption of executions is "shocking." They called on authorities to "immediately" drop the plan and for the international community to step up intervention efforts. "The death sentence has become one of many appalling ways the Myanmar military is attempting to sow fear among anyone who opposes its rule, and would add to the grave human rights violations, including lethal violence targeted at peaceful protesters and other civilians," Amnesty International tweeted. (ANI)
Amid rumours of a plot being hatched to assassinate former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, the Islamabad police department said on Saturday night that the security agencies have been put on high alert in adjoining areas of Bani Gala in the city. Section 144 has already been imposed in Islamabad and gatherings have been banned, the Islamabad police spokesperson said on Saturday. "In view of the expected arrival of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan in Bani Gala, which is a residential area located in Islamabad, security in the area has been beefed up and a high alert has been sounded. However, until now Islamabad Police has not received any confirmed news of return from Imran Khan's team," Islamabad Police tweeted. "Security Division has deployed dedicated security in Bani Gala. A list of people in Bani Gala has not been provided yet to Police. Section 144 is imposed in Islamabad and any congregation is not allowed as per orders of District Magistrate," it said. "Islamabad Police will provide complete security to Imran Khan as per the law and reciprocal cooperation is expected from Security teams of Imran Khan as well," the police added. Hassaan Niazi, nephew of Imran Khan said that if anything happens to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief, the act will be treated as an attack on Pakistan. "Anything happens to our leader Imran Khan, will be treated as attack on Pakistan. Response will aggressive - the Handlers will also regret," Hassaan Niazi, nephew of Imran Khan said. Fawad Chaudhry earlier said that PTI Chairman Imran Khan is coming to Islamabad on Sunday. In April, Chaudhary had said that the securities agencies of the country have reported a 'plot' for the assassination of Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan. "After these reports, the prime minister's security has been beefed up as per the government's decision," he was quoted as saying by the Pakistan newspaper Dawn. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf leader Faisal Vawda also made similar claims that there was a conspiracy developed to assassinate the Pakistani PM over his refusal to "sell the country". While responding to the conspiracy to assassinate the premier was mentioned in the letter, Vawda said that there was a threat to the Pakistan PM's life but remained evasive. He further said that Khan was advised to use bulletproof glasses during his rally at Islamabad's Parade ground. "But as always and as usual, he said my [death] will come when Allah wills. Don't worry about it," Vawda was quoted as saying by Dawn. This news comes a day after the Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif said that a foreign nation sent a message that he needs "to be removed" or Pakistan will face consequences. (ANI)
Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama has visited the main Buddhist temple Tsuglagkhang to participate in the annual "Mani Dhondrup' prayers in Dharamshala. Led by the monks of Namgyal Monastery, the prayer ceremony was attended by hundreds of people including women and children. The 14th Dalai lama visited here on Saturday to bless millions of holy 'Mani pills" which will be distributed among people during the conclusion of a six-day pooja here. "At this time, we have Avalokiteshvara prayer offering for six to seven days. For this occasion, the Dalai lama has come. He will bless millions of pills which would be distributed across the world," Thubten Pema Lama, director of a Buddhist monastery in Dharamshala said on Saturday. He added that this is very significant because due to COVID-19 pandemic, the prayers could not happen. "This is the second day of six-days' pooja an they will distribute the polls on the last day. We consider it holy pills and we call it Mani pills," theb director added. Last month, a long-life prayer was offered for Dalai Lama by the members of the Sakya Tradition of Tibetan Buddhism at Tsuglagkhang temple in Himachal Pradesh's Dharamshala. The offering ceremony was led by the hierarchs of both palaces-- the Dolma Phodrang and Phuntsok Phodrang-- headed by Sakya Dagtri Rinpoche. After the text of the long-life prayer was recited, statues of the deities of longevity, White Tara, Amitayus and Ushnishavijaya, were presented to the 14th Dalai Lama (His Holiness), and he was offered a bowl full of long-life pills by Rinpoche. "Thank you for this long-life offering. If I don't live long, there's a chance the Tibetan people's wishes and aspirations will not be fulfilled. For this reason, I pray that I will live to be more than a hundred and I ask you too to make the same prayer," Dalai Lama told the congregation. "We Tibetans are upholders of Buddhist traditions including the Vajrayana. You too preserve the teachings of both Sutra and Tantra. I request you to keep these traditions alive," Lama added.The long-life offering ceremony was also attended by the incumbent Sakya Throne-holder, the Sakya Trizin, Gyana Vajra Rinpoche, and the previous Throne-holder, Ratna Vajra Rinpoche. (ANI)
Students for Free Tibet (SFT) has organized a 'photo action' protest to commemorate the 33rd anniversary of the Tiananmen Square massacre of 1989 in China. The action of SFT activists which was performed at Mainsquare, Mcleod Ganj in Dharamshala, is a recreation of the act of defiance by Tankman after the Tiananmen Square massacre. Tenzin Pasang, programme coordinator of SFT said: Today is the 33rd anniversary of the massacre that happened in 1989 in Beijing. So we are here doing a solidarity action for them. We are just marking that day and remembering the day when China massacred all the protestors who were asking for freedom of speech and press freedom." Tenzin Tsundue, a Tibetan activist said: "The tank behind me and the man, the tankman this represents Tiananmen square massacre June 4, 1989. This was the year when the people of China rose against the government demanding freedom and democracy in China but the Chinese government used all military force and also trembled upon the Chinese students and laborers and it happened 33 years ago and the situation in China has not changed. "We as Tibetans stand in solidarity with the Chinese people demanding freedom and democracy in their country and also freedom for Tibet from China," he said. "China's crackdown on the Tiananmen Square protestors in 1989 is one of the most notorious illustrations of authoritarian repression. But from those dark days came one of the most famous symbols of resistance: the person they know only as Tank Man. Standing defiant in front of a column of tanks, he represented the strength of the people's movement for democracy in the face of the PRC's totalitarianism," he added. Tiananmen Square massacre of 1989 is China's bloody crackdown on pro-democracy demonstrations when Chinese troops opened fire on their own people. Meanwhile, China is intent on erasing the memories of the Tiananmen Square massacre of 1989 and has banned public commemorations on the 33rd anniversary of the country's most dubious instance of State oppression. The draconian National Security Law will be used to crack down on anyone showing public dissent or remonstration or organizing memorial functions on the occasion. This year's "June 4" - that is what the Tiananmen Square Vigil is known in Hong Kong - will be the first occasion when Hong Kong will fall silent, without any protests or commemoration. That will be the beginning of a new chapter of CCP aggression against the island which, in 1989, played a crucial role in organising the escape for the Tiananmen activists who survived the 1989 massacre. (ANI)
Afghanistan's State Ministry for Disaster Management is unable to douse the fire that broke out in the forests in the Nurgram district of Nuristan province ten days ago, reported local media. According to Mullah Janan Sayq, head of the State Ministry of Disaster Management's Emergency Operations Center, the firefighters were dispatched to the area to contain the situation but to no avail. The reason the firefighters were unable to douse the fire was the lack of advanced equipment. "We have tried to put out the fire and sent the firefighters. The Islamic Emirate is not able to-- as the fire is on the mountainous areas. The vehicles can't go there. We have called in the choppers, but I don't think the chopper could do it either," he said, reported Tolo News. The situation is such that Sayq said if required, neighboring countries will be called to assist in putting out the fire. "We will try to overcome the fire; if not possible, we will ask the neighbors to help us," said Mullah Janan Sayq, head of the Emergency Operations Center of the State Ministry for Disaster Management. The cause of the fire is not yet known. Moreover, officials said that one hundred and eighty-five acres of land have burned to ashes as a result of this incident. One of the residents said, "The flames are huge and there is a wind as well. These mountains with woods provide incomes to the locals." Meanwhile, as per economic experts, the fire will lead to an adverse effect on the health of the people in the area, as per the media outlet. The fire that has been burning for more than ten days in the Nurgram district led to another incident in the Chapa Dara district of Kunar province in the country. This is because the Chapa District lies on the border with Nurgram district. This was also confirmed on Saturday by Mawlawi Najibullah Hanif, the Taliban's Director of Information and Culture for Kunar province. He told the media that fires in the Dikal area of Chapa Dara district had started two days ago and that efforts were being made to put them out. (ANI)
Earlier on Sunday, Yonhap reported citing an informed South Korean source that North Korea appeared to have fired multiple ballistic missiles from at least two locations toward the Sea of Japan on Sunday. Meanwhile, the South Korean military announced that North Korea had launched one unidentified ballistic missile.

In a later update, Yonhap said citing the South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) that Pyongyang test-fired eight short-range ballistic missiles from at least two locations on Sunday. (ANI/Sputnik)
Protesting the crackdown by the Chinese government on civilians and their indiscriminate genocide by the country's military at Tiananmen Square 33 years ago, human chain protests were held in the Bangladesh capital of Dhaka. Various socio-cultural organizations staged the demonstrations in Dhaka as well as Narayanganj city in Bangladesh. Notably, on June 3-4, the soldiers of the Chinese military -- People's Liberation Army (PLA) -- fired upon and killed untold numbers of peaceful protesters and bystanders at Tiananmen Square. One of the protestors carried a banner with the famous picture of "Tank Man" on it. The photo of the "Tank Man" was taken on June 5, 1989. He was one of the many protestors who stood face-to-face with the soldiers and refused the Communist Party's orders at Tiananmen Square. The protesting organizations condemned and demanded justice for the genocide carried out by the Chinese communist government on pro-democracy students in their country. The human chain was held on Saturday morning, June 4 in front of Walton Plaza, Pagla Bazar, Old Road, Narayanganj, Dhaka. On behalf of civil society-conscious civil society, speakers said that on June 4, 1969, in Tiananmen Square, China, when the country's democracy and peace-loving people protested against the Chinese government's repression, the Chinese army carried out indiscriminate genocide against civilians. In that massacre, 10 to 15 thousand people were killed by the army of the Chinese government. The Chinese government strangled the democracy through that massacre. Moreover, Muktijoddha Mancha held a demonstration and human chain program in front of the National Museum in Shahbag, Bangladesh on Saturday. During the demonstrations, about 400 people were present. The program started at 3 in the afternoon and continued till 6:30 in the evening. About a thousand visitors were aware of the program and condemned China's actions. Meanwhile, Swadhinata Sangram Parishad held a demonstration at Jatrabari near the Dhaka-Chittagong highway. This program by the Parishad was started at 5 pm. Notably, the Tiananmen Massacre took place after the peaceful gatherings of students, workers, and others in Beijing's Tiananmen Square and other Chinese cities in April 1989, calling for freedom of expression, accountability, and an end to corruption. The government responded to the intensifying protests in late May 1989 by declaring martial law. On June 3 and 4, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) soldiers fired upon and killed untold numbers of peaceful protesters and bystanders. In Beijing, some citizens attacked army convoys and burned vehicles in response to the military's violence.Following the killings, the government carried out a nationwide crackdown and arrested thousands of people on "counter-revolution" and other criminal charges, including arson and disrupting social order. The government has never accepted responsibility for the massacre or held any officials legally accountable for the killings.Chinese authorities, over the last year, have increased the harassment and persecution of activists for commemorating the June 4, 1989, Tiananmen Massacre, Human Rights Watch (HRW) said. The Chinese government should acknowledge and take responsibility for the mass killing of pro-democracy demonstrators, it added. A few months ago, Hong Kong's universities removed the Tiananmen memorials. In December 2021, the University of Hong Kong removed "Pillar of Shame," a large sculpture commemorating the massacre victims, from the university premises. The Danish sculptor Jens Galschiot tried to reclaim the artwork but no shipping companies wanted to be involved, citing fear of retaliation by the authorities. University students protested the removal by holding an "invisible" flash mob at the sculpture's original site. The Chinese University of Hong Kong and the City University of Hong Kong removed the "Goddess of Democracy" statues, which were modeled after the original statue erected by students at Tiananmen Square in 1989. Lingnan University also removed a Tiananmen wall relief. In the mainland, as in previous years, the authorities in the weeks before the anniversary have preempted commemorations of the massacre. (ANI)
In continuation of the Government of India's ongoing support to the people of Sri Lanka, India in the latest aid provided two truckloads of life-saving medicines and equipment to Jaffna Teaching Hospital (JTH) on Saturday. The aid was handed over by Consulate General of India, Jaffna Raakesh Natraj to Director (Acting), JTH, Dr Nanthakumar. More aid to Sri Lanka is to follow. The aid will ensure general and critical care in the Northern Province of the Island Nation. In line with its "neighborhood first" policy, India again came forward to help Sri Lanka during its economic crisis. High Commissioner to Colombo, Gopal Baglay on Friday handed a total of 3.3 tons of essential medical supplies to the 1990 Suwaseriya Ambulance Service. Baglay said that External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar was apprised of the looming shortage of medical supplies faced by the Foundation during his visit to the Suwaseriya Headquarters in Colombo in March 2022. "Another promise to the people of #SriLanka delivered!!! During his visit in March, EAM @DrSJaishankar was apprised of shortages of medicines faced by @1990SuwaSeriya. High Commissioner handed over 3.3 tons of medical supplies today to help the vital lifeline run smoothly," Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka tweeted. Responding to the urgent need for medical supplies, the High Commission said that the Indian Naval Ship (INS) Gharial was specially deployed for this purpose. India is becoming a stronger and more mutually beneficial partner to Sri Lanka. Apart from assistance during the pandemic and fertilizer chaos, India is also donating the basic products for the island nation. Earlier, on May 27, acting High Commissioner of India in Sri Lanka Vinod K. Jacob handed over a consignment of over 25 tons of medical supplies to Minister of Health, Keheliya Rambukwella in Colombo. Taking to Twitter, the High Commission of India in Sri Lanka said that the consignment is valued at close to Rs 260 million. These efforts prove that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Neighborhood First' policy which places people-to-people engagement is still active. These are complemented by the people of India who have also been donating generously to their brothers and sisters in Sri Lanka. (ANI)
Lisa Burback moved from Chicago's North Side to a historic worker's cottage in Pullman in 2016, and recently became Pullman National Monument's newest park ranger. (R. Baltes)

Lisa Burback lived in a Chicago Bungalow growing up on Chicagos North Side, learning over those formative years it was more than just a roof over her head.

My dad made sure I understood how special it was that we had that kind of house, she said. He pointed out changes that previous owners had made, and said its our job to take care of it before handing it off to the next owners.

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Its a lesson she took with her when she moved from the North Side to Pullman in 2016, buying a 19th century workers cottage in a neighborhood she had only recently become aware of.

The spirit of being a caretaker of history is a natural fit in her role as the newest park ranger at Pullman National Monument, Chicagos only National Park Service property.

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Ive always been interested in Chicago history and architecture, Burback said. There are so many layers here that can appeal to any interest you have.

Even with that inherent interest, the learning curve was steep.

About 10 or 15 years ago, someone brought me down here, she said. I was 25 and Id lived my whole life in Chicago and had never heard of Pullman. It was shocking to learn there was all this history that affected everyone nationally and is still affecting lives today.

I didnt learn about it in school, so it made me dig my heels in and find out, what is this place?

One of the things she found out is that shed like to live in Pullman.

The more I learned, the more I came down and the more I liked it, Burback said.

After eyeing the housing market in the neighborhood for a couple of years, Burback found just what she was looking for in a little workers cottage that was the right size and price for her in 2016, the same year that President Barack Obama visited Pullman to announce the new national monument.

Moving from the bustling North Side to the very far reaches of the South Side constituted a lifestyle change, Burback said.

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I didnt know what I was getting into, she said. The community is so involved. You cant walk down the street without people checking in on you, saying hi, seeing what youre up to. Living in that kind of small-town environment was new to me, and its great.

So she got involved too. She was now the owner of an adorable historic home herself, one that featured the exact same floor plan as the day the first person moved in nearly a century and a half ago, she said. She started volunteering with the annual Historic Pullman House Tour, an autumnal event that requires planning year-round.

Its when we really shine, Burback said.

Most people who live in Pullman are very committed to sharing what were all stewards of, she said. Not everyone is keen on it, but most people we ask are excited to let all these people in.

A sign signals a resident's support in 2014 for the historic Pullman neighborhood of Chicago to be included in the U.S. National Park system. The neighborhoods ornate brick homes were built in the 1800s by industrialist George Pullman, as a blue-collar utopia to house workers from his sleeping-railcar factory. President Barack Obama in 2016 designated three new national monuments for protection as historic or ecologically significant sites, including the Pullman neighborhood in Chicago where African American railroad workers won a historic labor agreement. (Charles Rex Arbogast / AP)

Burback got married and loves collecting antiques with her husband, and they quickly outgrew the workers cottage. They bought another historic house, this time a skilled craftsman home. And a colleague with the house tour gave her a history of their new home.

There were no notorious figures who lived in our house, except for one, she said, which gave her another connection to Chicago history.

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One of the homes early owners was the co-owner of the Arcade Trading Co., a general merchandise store in Pullmans Arcade Building, which some people consider to be Americas first indoor mall.

By that time it wasnt the company store, but the other co-owner was John Patrick Hopkins, who went on to be a Pullman executive and was elected in the 1890s as Chicagos first Irish Catholic mayor in a special election after Mayor Carter Harrison was assassinated. Hopkins mayoral tenure lasted only two years and he died in the Spanish flu pandemic of 1818.

But Hopkins partners 1881 house remains in great shape.

Were very lucky, Burback said. The homeowners before us put in a lot of care and did a lot of restoration.

When the national monument visitor center officially opened last Labor Day, Burback was on hand as a volunteer and liked it, so she took on some long-term volunteer work and took it seriously.

I treated it like it was my job, she said.

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At first, the rewards were mostly cerebral  getting the chance to learn more about her adopted neighborhood while engaging more with neighbors and visitors alike.

She loved it, and months later when the ranger position opened, her labor of love turned into actual employment, and she quit her job of 10 years managing a real estate office to go to work for the National Park Service.

When a national park opens up in your backyard and offers you a job, its pretty hard to say no, she said.

Pullman National Monument in Chicago's Pullman neighborhood on Tuesday, Aug. 31, 2021, the day after its visitor's center officially opened. (Jose M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune)

That was about a month ago. In the weeks since, shes been learning even more. Last week, she found out about the Allen Paper Wheel Co., one of the few contracting companies George Pullman allowed into his railcar complex. The idea was to make train wheels by encasing compressed paper in iron.

They were supposed to provide a cushier ride, Burback said, but I believe that fact has been debated.

Being able to share stories like that is not only a function of her job now, but its been her job as a resident of Pullman. Thats what makes her neighborhood special, she said.

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The community has come to gather so much around the national park, Burback said. Were so engaged with visitors and making sure everyone has a good experience when they come here.

This is not a regular neighborhood, this is a living historical park, and people take that seriously.

Though Burback has wholeheartedly embraced the neighborhood, shes still a relative newcomer to Pullman. But her job gives her the chance to preserve the stories of the areas lifelong residents through oral history interviews.

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She recently interviewed some longtime residents who had first alerted authorities when the Pullman clock tower building caught fire in 1998.

She was involved in plans to make it a transportation museum, and watched that literally go up in flames, Burback said. It was very emotional to hear them tell it.

Burback also has met descendants of Pullman Porters and other factory workers, and even a few old-timers who used to work at Pullman themselves and who were very interested in making sure the workers side of the story is told, Burback said.

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There are lots of historical facets to Pullman National Monument, but on a personal level, the people of Pullman have had the greatest impact.

History is here for everyone to learn and is accessible through books and tours, but experiencing the community here has changed my life, she said. It changed my career, and my personal life.

Theres nothing else like this in Chicago. I dont know anywhere else in a major urban center where you can feel like you live in a small town.

Landmarks is a weekly column by Paul Eisenberg exploring the people, places and things that have left an indelible mark on the Southland. He can be reached at peisenberg@tribpub.com.
China on Sunday launched the spaceship Shenzhou-14 with three astronauts to its new Tiangong space station where they will work and live for six months as construction enters advanced stages. A Long March-2F Y14 carrier rocket carrying the Shenzhou-14 spacecraft was launched at 10:44 am from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in Northwest China's Gansu Province, Global times reported. The three Shenzhou 14 crewmembers -- commander Chen Dong, Liu Yang, and Cai Xuzhe -- were officially revealed as the crew earlier on Saturday. Shenzhou-14 is creating history as it is the first crewed spaceflight mission to Tianhe at the China Space Station in-orbit assembly stage and this is the first mission without an older age line. The Wentian and Mengtian space station lab modules, the Tianzhou-5 cargo spacecraft, and the Shenzhou-15 manned spacecraft are expected to be launched during the Shenzhou-14 crew's six-month stay in orbit, reported Global Times. Chen Dong, a veteran of the 2016 Shenzhou 11 mission, has started his second mission and first as commander. Another crew, Liu Yang, became China's first woman in space after she went to space in 2012, in the Shenzhou-9 mission, while Cai Xuzhe, will be making his maiden voyage during the upcoming mission. "For this day, I have prepared 12 years. I feel honored and proud to have this chance to go into space for my country," Xuzhe said as quoted by Global Times. Referring to the younger lineup, a Beijing-based senior space expert said that the new Shenzhou taikonaut trio must have shown outstanding performance during training, and the younger crew members have mastered new knowledge and new skills for the mission. The trio is slated to carry out the verification of big and small robotic arms, spacewalks, and the construction of payload outside the cabin, the Global Times learned from the Shenzhou spacecraft developer with the state-owned aerospace contractor China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp (CASC.) Another highlight of the Shenzhou-14 mission is the installation of a small robotic arm on the Wentian module. The previous mission, the Shenzhou-13 mission safely returned back to Earth on April 16 after concluding the technology verification stage of China's space station, reported Global Times. (ANI)
Minister of State for External Affairs, V. Muraleedharan will pay an official visit to African nations -- Zimbabwe and Malawi -- from June 6 to 9. The MoS will visit Zimbabwe from June 6-7 and to Malawi from June 8-9. During the visit to Zimbabwe, MoS Muraleedharan will call on Emmerson D. Mnangagwa, President of Zimbabwe. The Minister will also meet other senior leaders of the country. The MoS will also hold discussions with Dr. Frederick Shava, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade of Zimbabwe on various matters to enhance mutual cooperation. During his visit to Malawi, the MoS will call on Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, President of Malawi, and will meet other senior leaders of the country. He will also hold talks with Nancy Tembo, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Malawi on matters of mutual interest and cooperation. The Minister will also meet a wide cross-section of the Indian community in both the countries and participate in events marking "Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav" celebrations during the visit. Muraleedharan will also review the progress of the development assistance projects under the Government of India Lines of Credit (LoCs) and Grants in both countries. The MoS had a virtual meeting with Dr Frederick Shava, on 28 June 2021. The Ministers reviewed the entire gamut of the bilateral relationship, including political cooperation, cooperation in the fields of health, energy, trade, investments, and multilateral fora. India gifted 10 ambulances, which had been promised during the visit of Vice President to Zimbabwe in 2018. A consignment of 35,000 Covaxin vaccine doses were provided in the month of March 2021. India also handed over three vehicles for the Indo-Zim Technology Centres, for which the latest technology machines are worth approx. USD 3 million have beensupplied under Phase II. India shares excellent bilateral relations with both Zimbabwe and Malawi ranging across political, economic, cultural, and development assistance fields, which have particularly strengthened in the past few years. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Indian leadership maintained close contact with the leadership of both the countries and supported them in their fight against the pandemic. The visit of the Minister of State for External Affairs Dr. S Jaishankar would add further momentum to the multifaceted relations with these countries. (ANI)
As per the sources in the Canadian government and military, Chinese military jets have been flying extremely close to the Canadian aircraft, risking a mid-air collision and showing an "unsafe and unprofessional conduct" of the Chinese pilots, as per reports. The Canadian maritime patrol aircraft CP-140 Aurora, manned by rotating crews, is currently taking part in UN Operation NEON to monitor sanctions against North Korea. Chinese military fighter jets have repeatedly "buzzed" a Canadian aircraft which was on a UN mission in East Asia, with over two dozen intercepts deemed dangerous, Radio Free Asia reported citing Canada's local media outlet. According to a report on Wednesday in Canada's Global News, "Buzzing" means flying extremely close and fast. On these occasions, the Chinese jets came as close as 20 to 100 feet (six to 30 meters) to the Canadian plane. Moreover, the Canadian government and military sources also revealed that the Canadian government lodged "multiple" diplomatic complaints with Beijing regarding this matter. This situation is termed by a spokesperson for the Canadian Department of National Defence as "of concern and of increasing frequency". As per the report, there have been around 60 such incidents since December. The planes sometimes came so close to the Canadian pilots that they could make eye contact with each other, risking a mid-air collision, the report said. However, these complaints by Canada of Chinese aircraft "buzzing" their planes were dismissed by Chinese analysts. Chinese sources and analysts said the Canadian warplanes were the ones guilty of conducting provocative close-in recon missions on China. Notably, Canada-China relations have been strained after Canada arrested Meng Wanzhou, a senior executive at the Chinese telecommunications company Huawei in 2018 at the request of the US. China retaliated by arresting two Canadian citizens, Michael Spavor and Michael Kovrig. The two Canadians were released last September after Meng was allowed to return to China. Relations between the two countries soured again last month after Canada banned Huawei and another Chinese telecom company, ZTE, from taking part in its 5G network development. (ANI)
Marking the 33rd anniversary of the Tiananmen Square massacre, Swadhinata Sangram Parishad on Saturday organized a protest in Dhaka against China for killing its own citizens. The protest, which started at 5 pm at Jatrabari near Dhaka Chattogram Highway and continued till 6:30 pm, was attended by 500 people. The protest highlighted China's inhuman activity that took place on June 4, 1989, to the international community. Various socio-cultural organizations had also staged the demonstrations in Dhaka as well as Narayanganj city in Bangladesh. The protesting organizations condemned and demanded justice for the genocide carried out by the Chinese communist government on pro-democracy students in their country. On behalf of civil society-conscious civil society, speakers said that on June 4, 1969, in Tiananmen Square, China, when the country's democracy and peace-loving people protested against the Chinese government's repression, the Chinese army carried out indiscriminate genocide against civilians. Moreover, Muktijoddha Mancha held a demonstration and human chain program in front of the National Museum in Shahbag, Bangladesh on Saturday. During the demonstrations, about 400 people were present. The program started at 3 in the afternoon and continued till 6:30 in the evening. About a thousand visitors were aware of the program and condemned China's actions. Notably, the Tiananmen Massacre took place after the peaceful gatherings of students, workers, and others in Beijing's Tiananmen Square and other Chinese cities in April 1989, calling for freedom of expression, accountability, and an end to corruption. The government responded to the intensifying protests in late May 1989 by declaring martial law. On June 3 and 4, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) soldiers fired upon and killed untold numbers of peaceful protesters and bystanders. In Beijing, some citizens attacked army convoys and burned vehicles in response to the military's violence. In that massacre, 10 to 15 thousand people were killed by the army of the Chinese government. Following the killings, the government carried out a nationwide crackdown and arrested thousands of people on "counter-revolution" and other criminal charges, including arson and disrupting social order. The government has never accepted responsibility for the massacre or held any officials legally accountable for the killings. Chinese authorities, over the last year, have increased the harassment and persecution of activists for commemorating June 4, 1989, Tiananmen Massacre, Human Rights Watch (HRW) said. The Chinese government should acknowledge and take responsibility for the mass killing of pro-democracy demonstrators, it added. A few months ago, Hong Kong's universities removed the Tiananmen memorials. In December 2021, the University of Hong Kong removed "Pillar of Shame," a large sculpture commemorating the massacre victims, from the university premises. (ANI)
Pakistan reported 55 new COVID-19 cases in the past 24 hours, bringing the total tally to 1,530,705, the country's ministry of health said on Sunday. A total of 30,379 people died from COVID-19 in Pakistan, with no more deaths on Saturday, according to the ministry's statistics. On Saturday, 14,084 tests for COVID-19 were conducted in Pakistan while the positivity rate stood at 0.39 per cent. Currently, there are 65 active cases who are in critical condition in the South Asian country. Meanwhile, the National Institute of Health of Pakistan reported the first case of COVID-19 Omicron sub-variant BA.2.12.1. on May 9. This new sub-variant is causing an increasing number of cases in different countries, the National Institute of Health (NIH) had said in a statement. "NIH has detected the first case of Omicron sub-variant BA.2.12.1. This new sub-variant is causing an increasing number of cases in different countries," the health body had tweeted. In view of this, NIH advised people to take preventive measures to avoid contracting the virus, which is vaccination against it. "We strongly recommended getting vaccinated and all those due for boosters must get the shots immediately," it added. Director General Health Dr Rana Muhammad Safdar said that the Omicron sub-variant BA.2.12.1 was detected in a traveller who had returned from Qatar. He added that this sub-variant is seen in the recent spike in cases in the US. "The disease severity and hospitalisation remain the same as Omicron but data is limited as of now," Pakistani media Geo TV reported. The WHO (World Health Organisation) designated Omicron as a Variant of Concern on November 26, 2021, while the first case of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 in Karachi was reported on December 13. Since then, the Ministry of NHSRC (National Health Systems Resource Centre), NCOC, NIH (National Institute of Health) and the provincial health departments have remained vigilant to detect the variant in Pakistan," read an official statement. (ANI)
According to local media outlet WPVI-TV, the shooting happened shortly before midnight Saturday when police on patrol heard numerous gunshots from South Street.

The victims killed included two men and a woman, and all three suffered multiple gunshot wounds to the body.A police officer responding to the scene saw a male firing into a crowd of people and then shot at the suspect, Police Inspector D. F. Pace told reporters, adding that it is unclear if the shooter was hit.

"You can imagine there were hundreds of individuals just enjoying South Street, as they do every single weekend when this shooting broke out," said Pace.

The conditions of those injured in the shooting remain unknown.

Philadelphia police on Twitter asked people to avoid the surrounding area. (ANI/Xinhua)
Manila [Philippines], June 5 (ANI/Xinhua): The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology on Sunday raised the alert level for Bulusan volcano from zero to one after the volcano in Sorsogon province, southeast of Manila, spewed a grey plume about a kilometer high into the sky. The institute said the "phreatic eruption" occurred around 10:37 a.m. local time and lasted approximately 17 minutes. Ashfall was reported in towns near the volcano. "Alert level one is now raised over Bulusan volcano, which means that it is currently in an abnormal condition," the institute said, warning of "increased possibilities of sudden and hazardous phreatic eruptions." The phreatic eruption is a "steam-driven explosion that occurs when water beneath the ground or surface is directly heated by hot rocks or new volcanic deposits or indirectly by magma or magmatic gas." Before the eruption, the institute said it recorded 77 volcanic earthquakes in the past 24 hours. The institute prohibited people from entering the 4-km danger zone and urged residents of villages in the extended danger zone to be vigilant. "People living within valleys and along the river and stream channels, especially on the southeast, southwest and northwest sector of the edifice, should be vigilant against sediment-laden stream flows and lahars in the event of heavy and prolonged rainfall should a phreatic eruption occur," the institute warned.The institute also warned airplanes to avoid flying close to the volcano's summit. Bulusan volcano is one of the Philippines' most active volcanoes. In January 2018, the volcano spewed ash about 2.5 km high into the sky. (ANI/Xinhua)
Sri Lanka Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has informed Russian authorities that the Aeroflot aircraft issue is not an issue between two countries but a private legal issue. A spokesman from the Prime Minister's office said that Wickremesinghe had done the discussion on the issue with the secretary ministry of foreign affairs and advised him on what should be done, Daily Mirror reported. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka Foreign Affairs Ministry said in a statement that the commercial High Court of the Western Province issued an Enjoining Order on the Aeroflot flight restraining it from taking off from Bandaranaike International Airport. "The case relates to a commercial dispute between the Plaintiff, Celestial Aviation Trading 10 Limited an Irish Company against the first Defendant the Public Joint Stock Company "Aeroflot '' and the second Defendant, Mr. N. C Abeywardene/Acting Head of Air Navigation/Airport and Aviation Services of Sri Lanka (AASL), Katunayake," the statement said. The matter is still pending in courts and is consulted through normal diplomatic channels, the statement reads. A court hearing to lift the seizure of the aircraft is scheduled for June 8, 2022, according to the statement released by Sri Lanka's Airport and Aviation Services. Earlier, on Saturday, Russia's Aeroflot had suspended its commercial flights to Colombo after Sri Lankan authorities detained its Airbus A330 jet. "Aeroflot is suspending commercial flights to Colombo (Sri Lanka) for the immediate period due to an unreliable situation in terms of the airline's unobstructed flights to Sri Lanka. The sales of tickets for flights to Colombo have been temporarily shut down," the statement noted. Meanwhile, on Friday, Sri Lanka's Airport and Aviation Services issued a statement stating the actual reason behind restraining the flight to Moscow. It noted that the flight was restrained due to the absence of a permit from Sri Lanka's aviation authorities. Aeroflot passengers located in Colombo with return tickets for June 2, 4, and 5 will be brought to Russia from Sri Lanka on June 4 and 5. Repatriation planes will fly to Colombo without passengers, according to the statement. The company also vowed that those passengers with tickets to Moscow for later dates would also be brought home as scheduled. (ANI)
"PM & Minister of Interior of Qatar, Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani received VP @MVenkaiahNaidu at Amiri Diwan in Doha," tweeted MEA spox Arindam Bagchi while he informed about the congregation.

Continuing the thread, he said that both sides held delegation-level talks and reviewed bilateral relations including trade, investment, and economic and security cooperation.

Vice President Venkaiah Naidu received a warm welcome from the Indian community as he arrived in Doha during his last leg of the three-country visit.

Naidu wrapped up his Senegal visit yesterday.

During his visit to these two countries, India signed two MoUs in Gabon and three MoUs in Senegal in different sectors which underlined the warm and friendly relations between the two countries.

Vice President Naidu, during his visit to Senegal also described India as the largest democracy in the world, and Senegal, as one of the most stable and model democracies in Africa.

On his three-country visit, Naidu is accompanied by Dr. Bharati Pravin Pawar, Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Sushil Kumar Modi, Member of Parliament, Vijay Pal Singh Tomar, Member of Parliament, P. Raveendranath, Member of Parliament, and senior officials from the Vice President's Secretariat and the Ministry of External Affairs. (ANI)
For a long time, Australia, France, New Zealand, and the USA have been comfortable as undisputed "masters" of the South Pacific. However, a new power is attempting to muscle its way in, as evinced by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's recent grand tour that encompassed eight Pacific countries and ten leaders in quick succession. One after the other, Wang courted the leaders of Solomon Islands, Kiribati, Samoa, Fiji,Tonga, Niue, Cook Islands, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, and Timor-Leste, between 26 Mayand 4 June. In Honiara, Wang came out swinging at naysayers, calling criticism of the security deal "smears and attacks". The Solomon Islands shifted recognition from Taiwan to China in 2019. In the same year, China was its top import and export destination, with a total value near USD515 million. Yet, more than 90 per cent of Solomon Islanders say they prefer their country to align with liberal democracies instead of China. As Dr. Euan Graham, Shangri-La Dialogue Senior Fellow for Asia-Pacific Security at theInternational Institute of Strategic Studies, explained: "The primary driver behind thethe agreement is China's long-term strategy of displacing the United States as the predominant power in the Western Pacific. It includes a clear ambition to break out of the maritime encirclement posed by the First Island Chain, which is composed mostly of 'offshore' Asian US allies and partners to gain a foothold somewhere in the scattered archipelagos beyond. This also serves Beijing's immediate objective of taking over Taiwan by applying diplomatic and military pressure from within the Second Island Chain." Graham elaborated: "Solomon Islands offer a prime location from which to exert control oversurrounding sea and air space, potentially threatening longitudinal and latitudinal lines ofcommunication between and among the US and its Pacific allies, including Australia. AChinese naval base in the Solomon Islands could be used to interdict military reinforcementfor Taiwan. Even an isolated People's Liberation Army (PLA) facility in the Solomons usedfor intelligence gathering and presence, patrols would complicate defense planning forAustralia and, to some extent, the United States." Over the past seven years or so, different locations have been named as potential sites forChinese naval and airbase infrastructure, generally through development investments byChinese private companies or state-owned enterprises, particularly Vanuatu, Papua NewGuinea, Kiribati and Solomon Islands. Its pact with Honiara indicates Chinese seriousness and confidence in the face of intensifyingpushback, about carving out a security role in the South Pacific. It is irrelevant that Chinasays it will not establish a military base; it has a well-equipped military facility in Djiboutibut refuses to call that a base too. Furthermore, China could easily exert pressure in the future and achieve "mission creep" from a civilian facility to a defense-oriented one. Wang then traveled to Kiribati on 27 May, where he reached agreements on elevating Beltand Road Initiative (BRI) cooperation; disaster risk reduction; climate action; livelihoodprojects; COVID-19 medical supplies and protocols for medical teams; tourism; economicand development cooperation; fisheries production and processing; marine transportation;and bridge/road infrastructure. These kinds of agreements are typical of those that China signed in each Pacific nation.Fisheries, especially, are a crucial foot in the door for China. After decimating fish stocksalong its own coastline, and pillaging far-flung oceans, China's fishermen are keen for newwaters to ply their trade. As Graham remarked, "Once China can negotiate fishery access, it'll be a closed shop. Onceinvited in, never to leave. The seas will be plundered, the maritime militia will move in andthe PLA Navy will follow." See how China has dominated fisheries in the South China Sea, forcing fishermen from othercountries out of their traditional fishing grounds. It has deliberately rammed and sunk fishingboats. Furthermore, it imposes an annual unilateral fishing moratorium on others. Given itsdespotic behavior in the South China Sea, it is conceivable that China - which has theworld's largest coast guard - could send vessels into the South Pacific to "police" itsagreements with Pacific nations. There were fears that Kiribati might conclude a similar security cooperation deal to theSolomon one, but this did not occur. Kiribati switched diplomatic recognition from Taipei toBeijing in September 2019, which was a feather in China's cap. Wang's next stop was Samoa, where three deals were signed. Fiji was the Chinese foreign minister's next port of call, just one place where China issplashing money around freely. For example, the Chinese embassy there readily disburses money to charity or non-governmental groups. One education organization that ANI spoke to said that checks for USD6,000 or USD7,000 at a time were written without quibble. Conversely, applying for funds from Australian or New Zealand embassies involves screedsof paperwork and takes months to process. With cash flowing freely, China is gaining afollowing. The trouble is that all Pacific economies are struggling because of COVID-19, with tourism devastated. It is understandable that Chinese promises of economic aid are a lifeline for these countries, especially if their needs are being ignored by the likes of Australia, New Zealand, and the USA. China has implemented nearly 500 projects in the Pacific islands and trained about 10,000professionals. It has dispatched medical teams to eight nations and has BRI memoranda ofunderstanding with ten countries. Trade volume has increased on average 13% annually since1992. Tonga was next, with Wang arriving there on 31 May. Then, the sixth stopover was Vanuatu,another country where there had been speculation that China wanted to set up a naval base.Wang did not physically get to the Cook Islands, but he met with the country's leadervirtually on 2 June, just as he did with Niue's. Wellington is responsible for the defense of boththese countries as they are self-governing democracies in free association with New Zealand. China's blitzkrieg in the South Pacific has shaken up the incumbent powers, as it begins tochange the dynamics of power and geopolitics. Indeed, just five days after taking up officeafter federal elections, new Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong visited Fiji, followed bya trip to Samoa and Tonga on 1 June. Fijian Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama said he had a "wonderful" meeting with Wong. Helamented, likely referring to Australia's former prime minister Scott Morrison: "Fiji is notanyone's backyard - we are a part of a Pacific family. And our greatest concern isn'tgeopolitics - it's climate change." Australia's new Prime Minister Anthony Albanese warned that the previous government had"dropped the ball" in its dealings with the South Pacific. Albanese added, "We'll be proactivein the region and we want to engage. Australia has been the partner of choice for a longperiod of time in the Pacific and we continue to do that." Australia is not used to having external threats on its doorstep, and the Solomons are just1,000 miles from Cairns. However, the fact is that it is now impossible to prevent China frommaking further inroads into the Pacific. In addition, the USA has long been guilty of navel-gazing. A visit by Kurt Campbell,The coordinator for Indo-Pacific Affairs was unable to dissuade Honiara from signing thesecurity deal with China and, until now, the USA still does not even have an embassy there. China's charm offensive also catalyzed New Zealand, with Prime Minister Jacinda Ardernmeeting President Joe Biden in the White House last week. One important topic ofthe conversation was the South Pacific, plus the two countries pledged greater militarycooperation. As one New Zealander quipped, "Xi Jinping's strategic overreach in the Pacifichas achieved what decades of official negotiations could not." Although China trumpeted successes in Wang's tour de force, it did meet with failure. Thisrevolved around the inability to conclude a multilateral trade and security deal that Chinacalls the China-Pacific Island Countries Common Development Vision. A leaked draft showed China planned to expand police cooperation, conclude a free trade agreement, appoint a Chinese envoy to the region, pursue greater cybersecurity cooperation, and deeper collaboration in things as diverse as fisheries, agriculture, and pandemicmanagement. It is significant that China is pushing beyond mere bilateral relations intomultilateral groupings. Wang chaired the joint meeting from Fiji's Grand Pacific Hotel on 30 May, with all exceptTuvalu, Palau, the Marshall Islands, and Nauru were in attendance (these still recognize Taiwanrather than China). This was the second such joint meeting, the first occurring in October2021. In a letter addressed to the forum, Chairman Xi Jinping stressed mutual respect and commondevelopment. "China stays committed to equality of all countries regardless of size, andremains guided by the principle of pursuing the greater good and shared interests and theprinciple of sincerity, real results, amity, and good faith in developing friendly ties withPacific island countries." Xi promised to always be a "good friend", and China would "galvanize support for shapingthe future together". However, what Xi has done is galvanize resistance against the Chineseencroachment, like Beijing, which exhibits a desire to reshape the regional order.One requirement of the accord was that the Pacific states sign up to the "one China" policyand that they "understand and support China's core interests and major concerns". Yes,strings do come attached. China was also inviting these nations to join the Fengyun meteorological satellite system,which collects data for civilian and military purposes. This could cut across existing maritimesurveillance mechanisms such as the Quad's Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime DomainAwareness. Interesting is the prevalence of disaster relief efforts, with China aiming to get more involved,just as it did after Tonga's recent volcanic eruption. Last year, China established a reliefcooperation center and the Pacific Reserve of Emergency Supplies in Guangdong. It alsowants to preposition "supplies" in various Pacific countries. In a bold move, Federated States of Micronesia President David Panuelo wrote a letter tofellow Pacific leaders, warning that China's proposed vision seemed "attractive" at firstglance, but it would allow China to "acquire access and control of our region".The Chinese Embassy in Fiji responded by saying such criticism is "a distortion of China'sforeign policy" and "completely inconsistent with facts". The embassy alleged, "It cannot beruled out that the remarks were instigated and manipulated by Western forces." However, Samoan Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa spoke for many when she saidBeijing's proposal to push through this deal at short notice was "abnormal", and nothingcould be agreed if the "region has not met to discuss it".Penny Wong said of the proposed deal: "We have expressed our concerns publicly about thesecurity agreement. As do other Pacific islands, we think there are consequences. We thinkthat it's important that the security of the region be determined by the region. Andhistorically, that has been the case. And we think that is a good thing." The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is a well-practiced proponent of bullying and brutality- look no further than Tibet, Xinjiang, and Hong Kong. Those Pacific countries who thinkthat China is benevolent will get a rude awakening, as the CCP begins to throw its weightaround and leverages various agreements. By using debt rather than aid to fund big-ticket investments, developing countries mightachieve rapid socio-economic gains. However, this results in "political capture" andcorruption. China has deliberately targeted leaders of such small countries, and they and their core supporters have disproportionately benefitted from Chinese largesse. Five Micronesian countries withdrew from the Pacific Island Forum (PIF) last year, andChina is keen to leverage this disunity in its favor. It impatiently wants to bypass the PIF andcreate its own dialogue with Pacific countries. However, China has shown immaturity in thinking that a multilateral regional deal could be signed so quickly. China might talk big about consensus, but Wang's whirlwind effort did nothing to achieve it. Furthermore, the timing is damaging given the deep upset that China has already caused bynegotiating a security deal with the Solomons. This shows that Beijing is, at heart, totallyinsensitive to these Pacific nations. Xi and his diplomats may be in a hurry, but this does not gel with the time-honored Pacificway of negotiation and consensus-building. Nonetheless, Chinese money still talks loudly. (ANI)
Jocelyn Bettarelli drizzles chocolate fudge onto a "Beach Ball" donut at the Libertyville Duck Donuts on Friday, shortly after its grand opening ceremony. The Libertyville location is the first Duck Donuts franchise in Illinois. (Gavin Good)

Kelsey Anderson had no idea a quick trip to a Duck Donuts shop two years ago in Naples, Florida would change her life.

We bought a half-dozen, thinking that would last us a couple days, Anderson said. My son and I literally ate those on the way to the beach. They were so good, and I wasnt expecting them to be that good.

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On Friday, Anderson stood next to her friend and business partner, Felicia Osler, as the duo celebrated the grand opening of their own Duck Donuts franchise in Libertyville.

Anderson vividly remembers how she eagerly texted Osler about the donut shop in Naples, telling her she needed to taste them.

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I was like, Am I crazy? Anderson said.

Sure enough, when Osler arrived in Naples the next weekend, she agreed theyd chanced upon something special. Soon, they were researching the chain, which began in Duck, North Carolina, and now has over 100 locations, and were dreaming of opening their own franchise.

We kind of joked about it, Osler said. Like, Theres nothing like this by us. Maybe we should do this.

Before long, Anderson, a social worker, and Osler, an assistant controller, decided to combine their professional experiences and creativity. After growing up and living in Lake County for most of their lives, they decided that the chance to become the first franchisees in Illinois was too good to pass up.

We got back, we kept looking into (franchising), what (Duck Donuts) were about, how involved they were with the community and we ran with it, Osler said.

In Libertyvilles downtown corridor, just off Milwaukee Avenue on School Street, they found the ideal location. On Friday, dozens of customers  even Libertyville Mayor Donna Johnson  gathered for a chance to try the donuts.

We welcome any businesses in our community that bring quality to the environment, but this is an exceptional endeavor, Johnson said. One, its led by two female entrepreneurs. Theyre mothers, they have children and families. Everyone in the community can relate to that.

Johnson said she has regularly seen a buzz around the business since its soft opening in mid-May, and added that she thinks Anderson and Osler are business owners who can contribute to a vibrant downtown Libertyville in the years to come.

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To bring Duck Donuts here, which is a national chain and were the first in Illinois, its just a welcome opportunity, Johnson said. Its thriving and doing very well. Every time I drive by, its packed.

The shop offers a wide variety of donut flavors, from bold creations like Bacon in the Sun  which features maple icing topped with bacon and salted caramel drizzle  to Smores, a donut with chocolate icing that graham cracker crumbs and marshmallow drizzle on top. Duck Donuts also rotates in seasonal flavors, such as the Beach Ball and Peach Cobbler donuts.

Customers lined the inside of the store and congregated outside around its patio, with some enjoying free donuts as part of the shops National Donut Day giveaway.

As Libertyville resident Marley Herchenbach sat outside enjoying her Maple Bacon donut, she predicted shed return to the shop regularly for its warm vibe and wide variety of options, which also includes sandwiches and coffee.

Ive never had a hot donut before, Herchenbach said. I thought that was a really cool idea and a good experience.

Like Johnson, Herchenbach said shed seen the shop humming with customers  and said the line stretched to the door  on her first visit in May.

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I plan to come here more, she added.

Anderson, 33, and Osler, 30, are enjoying the support theyve received from residents and business leaders in Libertyville.

The community feel they have here and that level of support, they push for each other, Anderson said. And weve already seen it in the first couple of weeks weve been open. People from all the businesses around here stop in, introduce themselves. They want to come in and support.

The location already has a team of more than 55 employees, many of them local high schoolers, and Anderson said the business has rapidly grown its staff as employees have referred friends there for work.

Osler hopes the shop can be a financial boon, both to their families and to Libertyvilles downtown business center, as they raise their kids in the area.

For us personally, it means helping our families get to the next level. Bringing Duck Donuts here overall, its very exciting for us to be the first (in Illinois), Osler said. We have a lot of firsts for our location.

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Anderson and Osler had their doubts, especially when planning a business while others were shuttering due to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. As customers milled about their new business on Friday though, it all seemed well worth the risk.

I think what we realized is that donuts bring people together, Anderson said. We like to say we want to sprinkle happiness in peoples lives and in the community. We wanted donuts, we needed the donuts, and we knew there were plenty of people who would also appreciate a good donut.
During his visit, Rajnath Singh will also hold bilateral talks with his Vietnamese counterpart Phan Van Giang to further strengthen defense cooperation between the two nations.

According to the Ministry of Defence, Singh will start his visit by paying respects to Late President Ho Chi Minh at his Mausoleum in Hanoi, following which he is scheduled to call on the President of Vietnam Nguyen Xuan Phuc and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh.

During the visit, the Defence Minister will also visit the training institutions of Vietnam at Nha Trang, including the Telecommunication University where an Army Software Park is being established with a USD 5 million grant from the Government of India.

He will also attend a community event organized by the Embassy of India, Hanoi, and interact with the Indian diaspora in Vietnam.

India and Vietnam share a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership since 2016 and defense cooperation is a key pillar of this partnership. Vietnam is an important partner in India's Act East policy and the Indo-Pacific vision.

The Defence Minister's visit on the historic occasion of 50 years of establishment of India-Vietnam Diplomatic relations and 75 years of India's Independence will further consolidate the bilateral defense cooperation and the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. (ANI)
A number of rallies were organized in London and across Britain to mark the 33rd anniversary of the Tiananmen Square massacre on Saturday. In London, the "Unite for Democracy" rally was held in Whitehall, opposite 10 Downing Street from 4 pm to 5.30 pm. The rally was organized by Democracy for Hong Kong, Hong Kong Aid, Hong Kong Liberty, Fight for Freedom, Stand with Hong Kong, Hong Kong Assistance and Resettlement Community and Hongkongers in Britain. It was supported by Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities, Stop Uyghur Genocide, Free Tibet and World Uyghur Congress. Leading activists Nathan Law, Finn Lau, Simon Cheng, Benedict Rogers and Luke de Pulford addressed the rally. In the evening from 7.30 pm to 10 pm, there was a candlelight vigil outside the Chinese Embassy in London. This year Tiananmen massacre anniversary in London drew the biggest protesters with speakers from different persecuted communities and their supporters since it started 33 years ago. Nathan law, a former member of the legislative council, spoke on the occasion and said students, intellectuals, and workers lost their life 33 years ago fighting for democracy and even now people of Hong Kong, Tibet and East Turkestan want democracy and accountability in China. But the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) under Xi Jinping is supporting the military in Myanmar, the Taliban in Afghanistan, and supporting Russia. Ben Rogers, Hong Kong Watch, speaking about the Tiananmen massacre, compared it with the war in Ukraine and said it is a war between dictatorship and democracy, authoritarianism and freedom. He came with a yellow umbrella as a symbol of solidarity with Hong Kong. He said now people in Hong Kong don't have the freedom of speech and peaceful protest, they use to have, so people in the UK, who have that freedom must use it to support the people of Hong Kong. Tsering Passang (Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities), said, "taking part in today's protest is a genuine show of our solidarity and support - from the people of Tibet - to Chinese friends in mainland China, Hong Kong and around the world for their quest for freedom, justice and democracy." He said, "We in the free world must remind western political and business leaders who are proponents of the CCP regime that they must not forget their fundamental values and principles - the universal human rights - for short-term gains by working with the Chinese authoritarian regime." The protests which were started on April 15 were forcibly suppressed on June 4 when China's military crackdown led to a massacre of students protesting for democratic reforms in various major cities across China. The victims of the 1989 massacre are still waiting to get justice as accountability for the tragedy was never fixed. (ANI)
The attacks hit infrastructure facilities in Darnytskyi and Dniprovskyi districts on the left bank of the Dnieper River, Klitschko said.

Due to the strike, railway infrastructure facilities were terribly hit, said Serhiy Leshchenko, a member of the supervisory board of the Ukrainian State Railways, while speaking to Xinhua.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine and its barbarous rocket strikes in the country has been strongly condemned by the international communities.

Previously, Russia claimed it killed 180 "foreign mercenaries" in a missile strike on Yavoriv military training ground in western Ukraine, according to a media report. However, Kyiv denied the report terming it "pure Russian propaganda".

On February 24, Russia began a military operation in Ukraine, responding to calls for help from the breakaway republics of Donetsk and Luhansk in countering the aggression of Ukrainian troops.

Nearly 14 million Ukrainians have been forced to flee their homes due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, according to United Nations (UN) estimates and most of those displaced are women and children, Xinhua reported citing a statement by Amin Awad, assistant secretary-general and United Nations crisis coordinator for Ukraine.

The conflict has left 15.7 million Ukrainians in need of humanitarian support, with some of them lacking access to water and electricity.

Three million children inside Ukraine and over 2.2 million children in refugee-hosting countries are now in need of humanitarian assistance. Almost two out of every three children have been displaced by incessant rocket attacks and fighting between the two nations. (ANI)
Amman [Jordan], June 5 (ANI/Xinhua): Jordan's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources signed agreements with a Jordanian and a Turkish company to explore copper and gold respectively in the kingdom on Sunday, the ministry said in a statement. Under the deals, the Jordanian company would conduct explorations for copper in a 78 sq-km area in the Dana area, while the Turkish company's exploration of gold would last for 14 months covering 155 square kilometers in the Abu Khashiba area in southern Jordan, it added. Jordan's Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Saleh Kharabsheh stressed the importance of the agreements, which will support the national economy and create more job opportunities for local communities. (ANI/Xinhua)
Taliban on Sunday instructed Kabul's provincial education departments to open secondary schools for girls, subject to some conditions. In a series of tweets, Afghan journalist Bilal Sarwary claimed that the Taliban appointed committee for girls' education under the leadership of CJ Abdul Hakim Sharahi, the Ministry of Education (MoE) instructed Kabul's provincial education departments to open secondary schools. However, Sarwary said that the opening of secondary schools will be subject to some pre-conditions. As per Sarwary, those conditions are as follows: All pupils from 6th grade and teachers should wear Islamic hijab and their faces must be covered; No one is allowed to enter girls' schools except females for undertaking administrative duties during official hours. The instructions also said that all girl pupils should avoid stopping and meeting friends on the way to school and all head teachers should organize the curriculum in such a way to cover the lost time during the academic year. The move comes after the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan faced criticism inside and outside Afghanistan for imposing restrictions on women. 2021 has been the worst year for the Afghan women as the Taliban after assuming control of Afghanistan has rolled back access to their right to education and work; however, they also snatched it later for an indefinite period of time. Taliban has imposed draconian restrictions on the rights to freedom of expression, association, assembly and movement for women and girls. As a result of this, women and girls in Afghanistan are facing a human rights crisis, deprived of the fundamental rights to non-discrimination, education, work, public participation and health. Afghan women are staring at a bleak future due to a number of restrictions imposed by the Taliban governing aspects of their lives within 10 months of Afghanistan's takeover. Women are no longer allowed to travel unless accompanied by men related to them and are being curtailed from wearing make-up as well as their reproductive rights. Unrecognized by most of the international community, the Taliban-led government has been disrespecting the human rights of women. (ANI)
The discussions involved talks on taking the European Union-India partnership forward and steady progress in bilateral cooperation.

Taking to Twitter, S Jaishankar called his meeting with the Czech Foreign Minister warm and productive.

"As Czech Republic takes over EU Presidency, discussed taking India-EU partnership forward," he tweeted.

The ministers of the two nations focussed on steady progress in bilateral cooperation, including in trade, defense, S&T, and people-to-people exchanges, and highlighted the trade level crossing USD 2 billion.

Moreover, the foreign ministers also exchanged views on the repercussions of the Ukraine conflict and the Indo-Pacific.

Jaishankar's visit to Slovakia and the Czech Republic is to impart further momentum to bilateral relations with the two Central European countries.He began his engagements in Prague by meeting a delegation of Czech members of the European Parliament (MEPs).

The EAM also held discussions on India's ties with the EU and the Czech Republic, the Indo-Pacific, food and energy security, and digital cooperation.

In addition to meeting the political leadership, Jaishankar will also interact with a cross-section of the diaspora during his visit to the central European country, including Indian students in the Czech Republic and energy security and digital cooperation. (ANI)
Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Sunday launched the "India-Qatar Start-Up bridge" to link the start-up ecosystems of the two countries at the India-Qatar Business Forum in Doha, Qatar. He also addressed the members of the business community at India-Qatar Business Forum and highlighted the strength of India-Qatar ties and called for building an enabling environment and forging more collaborations for mutual benefit. He launched the "India-Qatar Start-Up bridge" to link the start-up ecosystems of the two countries at the India-Qatar Business Forum in Doha, Qatar. In his address, Naidu said, "When I see India and Qatar, I see convergences and opportunities. Trade contacts between the Western Coast of India and the Gulf region have existed for a long time. The pearl trade; the movement of dhows between our coasts taking advantage of the monsoon ecosystem in the Indian ocean; the use of the Indian Rupee as a legal tender in Qatar till the 1960s, enabled the ease with which goods and people moved between the two countries." The Vice President said that these exchanges paved the way for a special relationship between our countries which has evolved over centuries through people to people and cultural exchanges. "We have now a very robust India-Qatar economic partnership and it is getting enriched with each passing day," he said. He also said that bilateral trade between India and Qatar has seen steady progress. "During 2021-22, bilateral trade crossed USD 15 billion. It is a new milestone. Currently, the trade is naturally dominated by energy. Our focus is now to expand and diversify the trade basket," he added. He further said that more than 100 businesses are registered with Qatar Financial Centre and in Qatar Free Zone too. "We have also seen an increase in the number of registered Indian businesses in Qatar which has crossed 15,000. More than 100 businesses are registered with Qatar Financial Centre and in Qatar Free Zone too. This provides a strong foundation for realizing the potential in our bilateral trade and economic ties," Naidu said. The Vice President said Qatar Investment Authority has committed investments of over USD 2 billion in Indian companies in the last two years. "We have witnessed a steady increase in Foreign Direct investment from Qatar to India in recent years. Qatar Investment Authority has committed investments of over USD 2 billion in Indian companies in the last two years. This augurs well for future growth," he said. Earlier today the Vice President called on Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Father of Amir of Qatar and then he held delegation-level talks with Sheikh Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al Thani, the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior of Qatar. Mentioning that Qatar is not just among the countries with the highest per capita income; but also the top gas supplier to the world, the Vice President said that he was deeply impressed with the strides being made by Qatar in its development journey. During this visit, the Vice President is being accompanied by Dr Bharati Pravin Pawar, Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Sushil Kumar Modi, Member of Parliament, Vijay Pal Singh Tomar, Member of Parliament, P. Raveendranath, Member of Parliament and senior officials from the Vice President's Secretariat and the Ministry of External Affairs. (ANI)
Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, who is on three-nation tour of Gabon, Senegal and Qatar, reiterated that India will further strengthen its historic friendship with Qatar and agreed that a high-level engagement should be sustained, including an early visit of Qatar's Amir, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to the country. He reached Doha on Saturday on the third leg of his three-nation tour accompanied by a high-level delegation including Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Dr Bharati Pravin Pawar and three Members of Parliament, Sushil Kumar Modi, Vijay Pal Singh Tomar and P Ravindhranath. Naidu was warmly received by Soltan bin Saad Al-Muraikhi, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and accorded a ceremonial welcome with a Guard of Honour upon arrival, read the Ministry of External Affairs press release. On Sunday, the Vice President called on Father of Qatar's Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. Later, he met the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani at Amiri Diwan. Minister of Public Health Dr Hanan Mohammad Al Kuwari and Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Soltan bin Saad Al-Muraikhi were also present during the meeting. Both sides positively assessed the developments in bilateral relations and Naidu expressed happiness at the first-ever visit at the Vice President level from India to Qatar. Both sides expressed satisfaction at the continued engagement at the highest levels between both countries since the landmark visits of Qatar's Amir to India in 2015 and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Qatar in 2016. They agreed that high-level engagement should be sustained, including through an early visit of Qatar's Amir to India. Both sides also looked forward to the convening of the Joint Commission between the two sides at the Foreign Minister level later this year. Both sides also agreed to promote bilateral parliamentary exchanges, added the release. Vice President Naidu reiterated the high importance attached by India to close and friendly relations with Qatar and the commitment to deepen multifaceted bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, energy, food security, defence, technology, culture, education, health, media and people to people contacts. He thanked the Qatari leadership for taking great care of the Indian community. On his part Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani recalled the historic relations between both countries which are based on mutual trust and appreciated the contribution of the Indian community in the development of Qatar, said the release. An understanding has been reached to set up an ICCR Chair of Indian studies at Qatar University. ANI and Qatar News Agency have also agreed to enhance bilateral media cooperation. Both sides expressed strong commitment to further enhance bilateral trade and investment cooperation. Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani asked Naidu about sectors for more investment opportunities in India. Naidu invited the Qatari side to explore the significant opportunities in a range of sectors including infrastructure, connectivity both physical and digital, energy, defence and hospitality. The Qatar side also invited Indian entities to look for opportunities in sectors like education, pharmaceuticals and healthcare in Qatar. Both sides discussed the impact of recent global developments on food and energy security. They renewed their long-term commitment to energy partnership. Naidu further assured the Qatari leadership of India's assistance in meeting Qatar's food security. Meanwhile, Naidu will address an India-Qatar Business Forum jointly organized by FICCI, CII and ASSOCHAM, along with Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Leading businessmen from both India and Qatar are expected to participate in the Business Forum. A Start Up Bridge between Invest India and Invest Qatar will be inaugurated by Vice President Naidu during the Forum. It is hoped that the Forum will result in new networking opportunities for trade and investment between both sides. Qatar's FDI in India is in excess of USD 450 million and there is great potential for increasing these investments, said the release. Invest India and Investment Promotion Agency of Qatar have reached an understanding on cooperation to promote two-way investments between both countries. (ANI)
India on Sunday told Kuwait that it had taken strong action against those who made controversial remarks on Twitter against the minorities. In response to a media query regarding the statement issued by the Kuwaiti Ministry of Foreign Affairs on offensive tweets in India, the Spokesperson of the Embassy of India in Kuwait said, "Ambassador Sibi George had a meeting in the Foreign Office in which concerns were raised with regard to some offensive tweets by individuals in India." Strong action has already been taken against those who made derogatory remarks. A statement was also issued by concerned quarters emphasizing respect for all religions, denouncing insult to any religious personality or demeaning any religion or sect. Vested interests that are against India-Kuwait relations have been inciting the people using these derogatory comments. The Bharatiya Janata Party on Sunday suspended its spokesperson Nupur Sharma from the party's primary membership and expelled its Delhi media head Naveen Kumar Jindal after their alleged inflammatory remarks against minorities. "Ambassador conveyed that the tweets do not, in any manner, reflect the views of the Government of India. These are the views of fringe elements," said the spokesperson. "In line with our civilizational heritage and strong cultural traditions of unity in diversity, the Government of India accords the highest respect to all religions," added the spokesperson. The spokesperson further urged to work together against such mischievous elements who aim to undercut the strength of bilateral ties between the two nations. Earlier, India had conveyed to Qatar that controversial remarks against minorities are views of fringe elements and not the Government of India. (ANI)
Under "India-Ireland Friendship Lecture Series" on 4 June 2022 Embassy hosted Isaac R. Caswell, @Google Inc who spoke on 'Protecting Languages, Preserving Cultures - Spotlight on #Sanskrit' along with an introductory address by Ambassador @AkhileshIFS, tweeted Indian Embassy in Ireland.

The lecture was interesting, and informative and would assist all the Sanskrit learners in their endeavor to learn the language, the tweet read further.

Indian Ambassador to Ireland, Akhilesh Mishra also gave an introductory address on 4 June 2022 at 3.00 pm at the Embassy of India, recalling that Sanskrit has an unbroken relationship with India.

Various disciplines such as science, mathematics, and philosophy have their roots in the Sanskrit language.

The roots of Science, Mathematics, and Philosophy are in Sanskrit. It is not just a language but a way to achieve advancement in various dimensions of society and a bank of our ancient knowledge.

Under the "India-Ireland Friendship Lecture Series", the Embassy also hosted Prof Arthur Duff, Director of Studio Praxis who spoke on 'Connecting India & Ireland through Creative Industries' with an introductory address by Ambassador Akhilesh Mishra.

Besides highlighting the importance of the Sanskrit language during the talks, Ambassador @AkhileshIFS also met Sanjay Budhia, Chairman-CII National Committee on Exports & Imports, and exchanged a dialogue on future work plans.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier launched a 75-week countdown to the 75th year of Independence on March 12, 2021, to inculcate a sense of pride for the culture and country and bring together people in an attempt toward Janbhagidari. (ANI)
Ken Komperdas says he jumped at a chance to rent the basement of this home at 4 W. Bailey Road in Naperville for $1,000 a month, not realizing his landlord was operating an illegal boarding house. (Suzanne Baker / Naperville Sun)

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Ken Komperda is one of four people who live at 4 W. Bailey Road, a Naperville house that must be vacated after its owner pleaded guilty to charges he violated city ordinances by running illegal boarding houses and submitted false court statements.

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There are many of us that are now going to be homeless because of this and, in reality, it doesnt seem like anybody in Naperville cares. They just want us out of their town, Komperda said.

He understands why people were upset by what was happening in their neighborhood, but Im a victim in this just like apparently these neighbors are, he said.

His landlord, Terry Gaca, owns the Bailey Road house and four others that the city of Naperville deemed to be illegal boarding houses because they violated ordinances restricting the number of unrelated people who can live in a single-family dwelling.

After years of court proceedings, Gaca pleaded guilty last month to a contempt of court charged filed against him by a neighboring property owner. A Will County judge sentenced him to 24 months probation and a $10,000 fine and ordered him to get rid of the illegal tenants still living at 4 W. Bailey Road and 202 Pepperidge Road by Sept. 1.

Komperda said he moved to the Bailey Road house from Joliet in February after seeing a Facebook post advertising a one-bedroom apartment for $1,000 a month and meeting Gaca.

Ill be honest with you. When I came for the tour, the house was immaculate. Im guessing he had just had a housekeeper out because the house was literally sparkling clean, Komperda said. I mean you could have eaten off the floor, the house was so clean.

Impressed by what he saw, Komperda said he had no qualms about moving into the basement, which had been converted into an apartment. He lives there with his 8-year-old son, whom he shares custody of with his former wife.

Within a week of moving in, Komperda said the kitchen looked like a frat house, with garbage on the floor and dirty dishes and food everywhere. He obtained a mini-refrigerator and microwave so they could avoid the common area, he said.

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His situation is different from the other tenants who rent bedrooms and share a bathroom in the split-level house, he said.

I have my own private bathroom. I have my own bedroom, my own living room, my own washer and dryer. I am completely separate from the three guys that are renting out rooms upstairs, he said.

Komperda learned he was living in an illegal boarding house after reading a Naperville Sun story published in early May, he said.

Realizing he might have to move, Komperda said he started searching for something equally affordable.

Six months ago, he could find three dozen rooms for rent on Facebook, but thats no longer the case, he said.

Of the apartment complexes hes contacted, most have long waiting lists, openings that arent available for months or unrealistic expectations about whos going to rent a one-bedroom apartment for $1,000 a month, Komperda said.

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These people in this town want a 700 (credit) score and a $5,000 monthly income.  Its not reasonable. Nobody that makes $5,000 a month is going to be looking for a one-bedroom apartment, he said.

What is affordable is an hour and 20 minutes away from his job in Downers Grove, where he works as an assistant warehouse manager.

If I cant find somewhere to live, Im going to have to find a new job because I cant afford to drive two and a half hours a day back and forth to work just so I have somewhere where I can afford to live, Komperda said.

He makes too much money to get financial assistance but not enough money to get a place to live, he said.

The way its looking now, unless a miracle happens, come Sept. 1 I will be homeless, Komperda said.

Housemate Henry Moreau said he, too, is looking for a new place to live. His reasons for jumping at the Craigslist ad for a room in the Bailey Road house  $715 a month, utilities included  were different from those of Komperda.

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Its the cheapest apartment I have ever rented, and Ive lived in New Orleans. Ive lived here and in Chicago, and it was by far the cheapest apartment Ive ever lived in, the 24-year-old said. Its not a good place to live. Its just very, very affordable.

Moreau, who grew up in Louisiana and attended Tulane University, said friends encouraged to move to Illinois in summer 2020 after finishing college in the spring.

Ive lived in the south my whole life, Moreau said. Once I finished college, I wanted to come out and explore a little bit and kind of broaden my horizons and experience new things.

Working in sales for a manufacturing company, Moreau said he makes decent money and can afford to pay more for rent.

If I only have to pay $700 a month, Im willing to sacrifice a lot, honestly, he said As long as I have a place to sleep and shower, those are like the two most important things to me.

Moreau said Naperville is different from wheres lived in the past.

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Im from major cities and everything, so its a lot quieter. I like that aspect, he said.

Its also much safer, he said, especially coming from a city like New Orleans. Its a lot safer than there, which I really like. I like the community aspect of it too.

When not at work, Moreau said he typically heads to Chicago.

I have some friends that live downtown. I go downtown a lot to hang out with my friends, he said.

After two years in the suburbs, Moreau said hes ready to move back to the hustle and bustle. He and a friend have been researching places for a month and a half.

Moreau said he sympathizes with Komperda.

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He just moved in like two months ago.  Hes barely been here, and this is all being dropped on him immediately. I feel terrible for him, especially since he has a kid and everything too, Moreau said.

Naperville has some affordable places, but its very hit or miss. Like the affordable places are not good places to live, he said.

Boarding houses, if located where theyre allowed, make an affordable option for those who cant meet income or credit history requirements for renting an apartment, according to housing advocate Mike Ryder, one of the founders of the DuPage Housing Alliance and director of outreach and social justice at St. Thomas Catholic Church in Naperville.

Young adults starting their careers and those working low-income jobs in the restaurant industry in Naperville are among the people the alliance has identified who could benefit from a boarding house that rents rooms for $700 to $1,000 a month, Ryder said.

Not everyone has a car, he said, so they need to find a place to live near their job.

The city has taken steps to spur more affordable housing.

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Earlier this year consultant SB Friedman briefed the citys Human Rights and Fair Housing Commission on a proposed three-tier system through which regulatory carrots would be used to encourage developers to build housing for low- to moderate-income households.

The incentives program could be presented to the Naperville City Council for review this summer.

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Political rivals found a common ground to target the country's premier intelligence agency - ISI after it was authorized to screen government officials ahead of promotions or postings, individual leaders from the country's three main political parties -- including two who are part of the ruling coalition. They have expressed their reservations about the move after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif formally authorized Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), of the new role, reported Dawn. In a tweet on Saturday, former information minister Pervaiz Rasheed said that if the ISI was being tasked with vetting civilian officials, then the spy agency should be placed under civilian control and be made answerable to parliament. Separately, former Senate chairman and Pakistan Peoples Party PPP stalwart Raza Rabbani expressed surprise over the notification issued by the federal government on Friday, saying that ISI was the prime intelligence agency of the country and, given the situation on the eastern and western borders, this additional task would be tantamount to over-burdening the institution, reported Dawn. Moreover, he said, it also blurred the distinction between the civil and military bureaucracy and expressed a lack of confidence in the civilian apparatus of the state. He said the Civil Servants Act 1973, as amended by parliament, was a comprehensive law and it did not provide for such screening of civil servants. Both leaders were also on the same page with former information minister and PTI leader Fawad Chaudhry, who agreed with Rasheed, saying if "institutions wanted to increase their role in civilian affairs, then they would have to pay for it in the form of public accountability". "The institution has to think about what role it wants to play in Pakistan's politics. A discussion is needed on the new roles of civil institutions and institutions after the media revolution," he tweeted. This sentiment was echoed by his former cabinet colleague, Shireen Mazari, who termed the debate on this matter "critical for the future of democracy in Pakistan". Separately, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has also expressed concern over the government's decision, reported Dawn. "Even if this practice was already in place, it goes against democratic norms. The role of the military in civilian affairs needs to recede if Pakistan is to move forward as a democracy," the HRCP stated. It is worth noting that clearance from intelligence agencies has not only been an integral part of the promotion process for civil servants in the past, but it also plays a key role in the appointment of judges to the superior judiciary. (ANI)
As of March, the average monthly Social Security benefit is $1,618.29 for an individual, according to the Social Security Administration (SSA). Doubling up for a couple, that's $3,236.58.

Not a bad haul, if it's supplementing other income or padding a nice, big nest egg. If Social Security is all you're living on, however, you're going to have to pick your retirement city very carefully to stretch those dollars to their absolute limit  particularly on the notoriously expensive West Coast, which, for the purposes of this study, includes Alaska.

Find Out: Social Security Schedule: When Benefits Will Arrive in May 2022

See: 10 Reasons You Should Claim Social Security Early

To determine the best places for couples to live on the West Coast on only their combined Social Security checks, GOBankingRates used cost-of-living data from Sperling's Best Places. The ranking also includes ApartmentList data on the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment, as well as each city's livability score, sourced from AreaVibes.

Each city was then given a combined score  which represents a summation of all those factors  with lower scores being better. The list is ranked in order of the worst score to the best.

Read on to learn about the West Coast spots that are most welcoming to retirees living on Social Security.

jared ropelato / Shutterstock.com

Vallejo, California

2022 average 1-bedroom rent: $1,607

Vallejo has a lousy livability score of 56  livability scores are calculated by algorithms that factor in dozens of variables like proximity to amenities, crime and schools. The cost-of-living index is a high 131.3, with 100 representing the national average. The average one-bedroom apartment will run you $1,607 per month, the highest on this list.

Jon Bilous / Shutterstock.com

Riverside, California

2022 average 1-bedroom rent: $1,508

At 133.1, Riverside's cost-of-living index is even higher than even Vallejo's  a full one-third more than the national average. The town's livability score is an unimpressive 59, mostly because of its relatively high crime rate. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,508, one of the three highest on the list.POLL: Does April's Stock Market Dip Concern You?

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Seattle

2022 average 1-bedroom rent: $1,596

Moving up the coast to Washington is Seattle, a pricey city where the average one-bedroom costs $1,596. That contributes to a bruising 172.3 cost-of-living index  the highest on this list, by far  which means that daily living in Seattle is 72.3% more expensive than the national average. All in all, its livability score is an underwhelming 65 thanks to high crime rates, high housing costs and, of course, a high cost of living.

Manny Chavez / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Sacramento, California

2022 average 1-bedroom rent: $1,432

The capital city of California, Sacramento has a below-average livability score of 62, mostly because of its crime statistics and relatively high prices. The cost-of-living index there is 118.2, making the city nearly 20% costlier to live in than the national average. The typical renter will shell out $1,432 for a one-bedroom.

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Anchorage, Alaska

2022 average 1-bedroom rent: $1,176

In Anchorage, crime and real estate prices are high even by Alaska standards, both of which contribute to the city's drab livability score of 60. Although the average one-bedroom there costs $1,176 per month, one of the least expensive on this list, Anchorage residents still struggle with a rough cost-of-living index of 123.5.

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Napa, California

2022 average 1-bedroom rent: $1,522

Known for its legendary vineyards, daily life in Napa is nearly as pricey as its wine  the cost-of-living index is 162.1, second only to Seattle. With an average monthly rent of $1,522, it's one of only four cities on this list where the typical one-bedroom costs more than $1,500. Overall, its livability score is a middling 70.

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Portland, Oregon

2022 average 1-bedroom rent: $1,344

The cost of living in Portland is 30.8% higher than the national average. Although its $1,344 average rent makes it one of just five cities on this list where a one-bedroom goes for less than $1,400, its very high crime rate contributes to a dreary livability score of 65.

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Fresno, California

2022 average 1-bedroom rent: $1,025

Just two cities on this list are less expensive than Fresno, which boasts a forgiving cost-of-living index of 102.6. With an average monthly rent of $1,025.00, a one-bedroom is cheaper in just thee other cities. Unfortunately, high crime contributes to a subpar livability score of 58.

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Bremerton, Washington

2022 average 1-bedroom rent: $1,440

Bremerton comes up with an average livability score of 70. With a cost-of-living index of 108.9 and an average rent of $1,440 for a one-bedroom, it's certainly one of the more affordable cities to make the cut.

GarysFRP / Getty Images

Eugene, Oregon

2022 average 1-bedroom rent: $928

With a cost-of-living index of 105.3, Eugene is even more affordable than Bremerton. A lot of that has to do with the fact that it's one of only three cities on the list with a three-figure monthly rent  $928 per month, to be exact, which makes it the cheapest on the entire list. Thanks to its high crime rate, however, Eugene earns a meh livability score of 65.

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Olympia, Washington

2022 average 1-bedroom rent: $1,436

The capital city of Washington has a cost-of-living index of 106.1, which puts it on the lower side of this list. Olympia's livability score is 74  the highest of any city profiled here  and a $1,436 average monthly rent.

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Spokane, Washington

2022 average 1-bedroom rent: $947

Just one city on this list is cheaper to live in than the national average  Spokane, whose cost-of-living index is an impressive 92.3. Although the city's paltry livability score of 67 leaves plenty to be desired, its $947 monthly rent makes it the No. 2 least expensive place to rent an apartment.

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Salem, Oregon

2022 average 1-bedroom rent: $979

With a cost-of-living index of 101.8, Salem is less expensive to live in than any city on this list except for Spokane. One of just three cities with a sub-$1,000 average rent, a one-bedroom goes for just $979 per month. That's all good news, despite Salem's low livability score of 69.More From GOBankingRatesWhen Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Payments Will Arrive in June 2022

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Methodology: GOBankingRates determined the best places for a couple to live on the West Coast on only their combined Social Security checks based on the (1) average monthly benefit for retired workers, $1,618.29, sourced from the Social Security Administration, and doubled ($3,236.58); (2) the overall cost of living in each city, sourced from Sperling's Best Places; (3) average 2022 rent for a one-bedroom apartment as sourced from ApartmentList; and (4) livability scores sourced from AreaVibes. Factors (2) through (4) were scored and combined, with the lowest score being the best. Factor (4) was weighted double in final calculations. All data was collected and is up to date as of April 22, 2022.

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 13 Best Places on the West Coast for Couples To Live on Only a Social Security Check
The Pacific is owned by Russian entrepreneur Leonid Mikhelson. Getty Images

A Russian oligarch's superyacht stopped sending out tracking signals for almost two weeks.

Leonid Mikhelson's yacht only sent its destination after reaching Turkey's safe waters, data shows.

Many superyachts owned by oligarchs are now in Turkey, which does not recognize western sanctions.

A $150 million superyacht belonging to Russia's second-richest man has finally been located after it stopped broadcasting a tracking signals for weeks, ship-tracking data shows.

Bloomberg first reported the story.

The superyacht called Pacific, owned by Novatek CEO and oligarch Leonid Mikhelson, moored on Thursday in Turkey's safe waters at the port of Marmaris in the country's south, Spire's data shows.

The 280ft (86 metre) yacht turned off its tracking signals from early May where it was last tracked in the Caribbean Sea. Its marker had pinpointed the yacht on May 20 near the Canary Islands, off the west coast of Africa.

Mikhelson, worth $21.5 billion per Forbes data, is a business partner of sanctioned oligarch Gennady Timchenko, whose family including his wife and daughters have also been hit by sanctions.

Mikhelson was sanctioned by the UK and Canada in early April.

The Pacific arrives in Marmaris, Mugla, Turkey in September 2020. Sabri Kesen/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

Turkey has been a favored destination for oligarchs' superyachts following the imposition of sanctions by the West. Roman Abramovich's superyachts The Eclipse and My Solaris are both in Turkish waters.

According to SuperyachtFan, the yacht can accommodate two helicopters, features an elevator, a pool, a smaller speedboat, and has room for 12 guests and 28 crew.

Novatek is the largest privately owned natural gas provider in Russia, according to Bloomberg, accounting for about 10% of consumption.

Insider contacted Novatek for comment.

The US and its allies launched a campaign against Russian tycoons with ties to Vladimir Putin by seizing superyachts, villas, and other assets.

However, legal challenges have risen in Fiji, where the US granted a seizure order of the $325 million Amadea that belongs to Suleiman Kerimov. A Russian billionaire had acted as a "straw owner" to conceal its ownership, US authorities have alleged.

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Vagit Alekperov's $80 million superyacht, Galactica Super Nova, also stopped sending tracking signals after leaving Montenegro in early March after sanctions were imposed.

Other vessels belonging to oligarchs have sailed toward Turkey, including Dmitry Kamenshchik's $400 million superyacht, and Alexander Abramov's $100 million yacht.

Read the original article on Business Insider
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Social Security is an essential safety net for many Americans. Even if you haven't saved enough for retirement, you can still count on Social Security benefits in retirement.

Read: 14 Key Signs You Will Run Out of Money in Retirement

Learn: Best and Worst States for Pensions

However, with an average monthly benefit of just over $1,400, America's most expensive cities are far out of reach without another source of income. If you do have to rely on your Social Security benefits alone -- and still want to make the most of your golden years -- you'll need to live somewhere affordable that won't compromise your quality of life.

That's why GOBankingRates compiled a list of the 20 best cities to live off of just Social Security. The study factored in the cost of living, livability and median rent and -- after comparing the 143 largest cities in the U.S. -- combined the scores to determine where you really can get by on just your Social Security benefit.

DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images

20. Lubbock, Texas

Cost of Living Score: 79.9

Livability Score: 68

Average Rent: $719

Lubbock is one of five Texas cities identified in the study as a good place to live just on Social Security. Its relatively low livability score and rent of more than $700 per month prevented it from moving up on the list.

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19. Toledo, Ohio

Cost of Living Score: 72.7

Livability Score: 62

Average Rent: $651

Toledo's cost of living indicates that you can expect to spend more than 25% less on your basic expenses than you would in the rest of the country, on average. What's more, Toledo is one of the cities where your money stretches the furthest, according to a separate GOBankingRates study.

Sean Pavone / Getty Images/iStockphoto

18. Cleveland, Ohio

Cost of Living Score: 72.6

Livability Score: 60

Average Rent: $612

If you're younger and looking to avoid living off your Social Security check alone when you reach retirement, one of the best ways is to start saving early. However, even if it's too late to build the sort of nest egg you would like, a city like Cleveland -- which combines modest rent with a low cost of living -- should help you make the most of your Social Security benefits.

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17. Magnolia, Texas

Cost of Living Score: 104

Livability Score: 80

Average Rent: $773

Magnolia is about 45 miles northwest of Houston in fast-growing Montgomery County. Its popularity probably has led to the high rental rate in the city - eighth-highest on the list. It also has the second-highest cost of living in the study.

Art Wager / Getty Images/iStockphoto

16. Richmond, Texas

Cost of Living Score: 108.2

Livability Score: 82

Average Rent: $780

Also located in the Houston metropolitan area is Richmond, and it has the highest cost-of-living index in the study. It's livability score is among the biggest, too.

WilliamSherman / Getty Images/iStockphoto

15. Roanoke, Virginia

Cost of Living Score: 84.1

Livability Score: 75

Average Rent: $792

The average rent cost in Roanoke is the fourth-highest on the list, but its lower cost of living and high livability rates make it desirable for retirees. If you wanted supplement your Social Security earnings, Roanoke is a good place to do it. Another GOBankingRates study showed it's one of the top 20 cities for remote workers.

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14. Lincoln, Nebraska

Cost of Living Score: 89.8

Livability Score: 78

Average Rent: $806

The average rent in Lincoln of $806 is second-highest on the list, but overall, living in this college town still is 10% cheaper to live in than the rest of the United States.

DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images

13. Grand Forks, North Dakota

Cost of Living Score: 88.2

Livability Score: 74

Average Rent: $733

Grand Forks is the northernmost city on the list, and one of two in North Dakota. At $733, rent in Grand Forks is at the midpoint, but it's still 11% less expensive to live here than elsewhere.

DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images/iStockphoto

12. Odessa, Texas

Cost of Living Score: 88

Livability Score: 63

Average Rent: $504

The primary appeal of Odessa to retirees is the low cost of rent. At $504 per month, it's the cheapest in the study - and by a wide margin. But the livability score of 63 also is among the lowest, knocking Odessa to No. 12 on the list.

DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images

11. Fargo, North Dakota

Cost of Living Score: 91.9

Livability Score: 77

Average Rent: $740

Fargo is one of the best cities to live in on a fixed income, another GOBankingRates study revealed. That should appeal to those relying on Social Security.

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10. Davenport, Iowa

Cost of Living Score: 81.7

Livability Score: 69

Average Rent: $644

It costs about 19% less to live in Davenport than the average American city, fueled by its average rent of $644 per month. Dragging it down is its livability score of just 69.

DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images/iStockphoto

9. Abilene, Texas

Cost of Living Score: 78.1

Livability Score: 75

Average Rent: $780

The last of the five Texas cities on the list, Abilene has a cost of living that is about 22% below the national average - one of the lowest in the study. That makes the comparatively high apartment cost of $780 easier to bear.

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8. Norman, Oklahoma

Cost of Living Score: 89.4

Livability Score: 76

Average Rent: $715

Norman is the home of the University of Oklahoma, and living surrounded by all of those college students will keep a retiree young. The average rent of $715 is the seventh-lowest among cities on the list.

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7. Lake Charles, Louisiana

Cost of Living Score: 83.4

Livability Score: 70

Average Rent: $622

For retirees interested in living near the water, with all of the recreational opportunities that brings - think fishing! - there's good news: Lake Charles has the third-lowest rent cost of the cities considered in this study.

benkrut / Getty Images/iStockphoto

6. Des Moines, Iowa

Cost of Living Score: 81.2

Livability Score: 75

Average Rent: $729

Des Moines scored high in two categories, livability and cost of living, which led to its No. 6 ranking on this list.

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5. Rochester, Minnesota

Cost of Living Score: 94.1

Livability Score: 84

Average Rent: $800

About 3 million people visit Rochester annually, many of them to visit with doctors at the world-renowned Mayo Clinic, which opened in the city in 1889. While rents are the third-highest in the study, its livability score is high, too, making it desirable for retirees.

ChrisBoswell / Getty Images/iStockphoto

4. Fort Wayne, Indiana

Cost of Living Score: 78.9

Livability Score: 75

Average Rent: $718

Fort Wayne is a little pricier than many of the other cities on this list, but it still is among one of the best cities in the nation to retire on $1,500 a month, found a separate GOBankingRates study.

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3. St. Charles, Missouri

Cost of Living Score: 92.2

Livability Score: 86

Average Rent: $831

St. Charles has the highest rental cost in the study at $831 but it also has the highest livability score at 86. There's a lot for retirees to do there, from exploring historic Main Street to touring the local wine country.

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2. Lynchburg, Virginia

Cost of Living Score: 82.9

Livability Score: 81

Average Rent: $786

Lynchburg's relatively high livability score is the primary factor in pushing the city to No. 2 on this list, but its retiree-friendly cost of living is another major factor. The cost of living is about 17% below the U.S. average.

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1. Rock Springs, Wyoming

Cost of Living Score: 96.2

Livability Score: 83

Average Rent: $692

Outlaw Butch Cassidy once called Rock Springs, an outpost of the Old West, home. Today, it's a city welcoming to retirees, with a low average rent of $692 and a high livability score. An old mining town located in the high desert, Rock Springs is near the Killpecker Sand Dunes, which are the largest sand dunes in North America.

More From GOBankingRates

Joel Anderson contributed to the reporting for this article.

Methodology: GOBankingRates determined the best places to live on only a Social Security check based on the (1) average monthly benefit for retired workers, $1,518.97, sourced from Social Security Administration; (2) the overall cost of living in each city, sourced from Sperling's Best Places; (3) average 2021 rent for a one-bedroom apartment as sourced from ApartmentList,; and (4) Livability scores sourced from areavibes. Factors (2) through (4) were scored and combined with the lowest score being best. Factor (4) was weighted double in final calculations. All data was collected and is up to date as of Dec. 14, 2021.

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 20 Best Places To Live on Only a Social Security Check
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If you're looking to sell your home at some point down the line, it's worth the time, money and effort to tackle certain home renovations that provide high ROIs. This is especially true if it's a project you can do yourself, as your only costs will be any necessary materials.

Find Out: 11 Things You Should Never Buy at Walmart

See: In Less Than a Decade, You Won't Be Able To Afford a Home in These Cities

Here are a few DIY improvements you can take on that will add value to your home.

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Install Floating Laminate Flooring Over Worn Vinyl or Carpet

Tomas Satas, founder and CEO at Windy City HomeBuyer, recommends installing floating laminate flooring as a simple, cost-effective home improvement to make before flipping a home.

"Laminate is cost-effective, not only because it gives you the look of hardwood without the cost and maintenance, but because it saves the cost or trouble of demolition of the old vinyl, as long as the subfloor isn't damaged," he said. "It is the perfect DIY home improvement for anyone who needs to cover a worn vinyl floor and [provides] a great ROI."

He does recommend only making this improvement on lower-cost homes, as high-end buyers might see laminate floors as a dealbreaker. But if your home fits the bill, it can provide a great return on investment.

"The cost runs from about $2 to $4 per square foot without installation," Satas said. "Anyone who can use a chop saw and a tape measure can install this click-lock floating flooring."

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Repaint the Interior and Exterior

"Painting has the incredible effect of making a house feel new while costing relatively little," said Donald Olhausen Jr., real estate agent and owner of We Buy Houses in San Diego. "It is also a project that most homeowners can complete on their own."

And the ROI can be very high with a well-done paint job.

"I have seen new paint jobs fetch home sellers $10,000 more than what they would have received without painting," Olhausen Jr. said. "This makes it a great project to do for homeowners looking for a high return on their investment and time."

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POLL: Do You Make a Weekly Meal Plan or Other Regular Household Budget?

Bogdan Kurylo / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Refinish Kitchen Cabinets

Davin Eberhardt, founder of the home improvement blog Nature of Home, recommends refinishing kitchen cabinets for homeowners looking for a DIY project with a high ROI.

"With only a couple hundred dollars in painting supplies, it could boost home value by $1,500, giving you an ROI of 650%," he said.

To do this project properly, you'll need to clean, sand and prime the cabinets before repainting them.

"It's important to use high-quality paint so that it holds up over time," Eberhardt said. "While you're at it, replace the hardware to complete the transformation."

Jaskaran Kooner / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Update Bathroom Hardware

"The bathroom is an important room in the house that can have a big impact on its value," said Tyler Forte, co-founder and CEO of freshbuilds, a resource for finding new construction homes. "A well-designed bathroom can make a small space feel luxurious, while a poorly designed one can be a turnoff for potential buyers."

While you may need a pro for a large-scale bathroom remodel, one simple upgrade you can do yourself is to update the bathroom hardware.

"Replace old hardware, like towel bars, faucets and cabinet pulls, to give the space a fresh look," Forte said.

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Install Smart Door Locks

Installing smart door locks is an inexpensive upgrade that can pay off when it's time to sell, said Stephen Keighery, CEO and founder of Home Buyer Louisiana.

"Smart locks can detect whether you are at home and even lock themselves when you leave, enabled by Bluetooth and/or WiFi. This intelligent feature can be a selling point when marketing the property," he said.

chuckcollier / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Install Smart and LED Lights

Another "smart" upgrade that can add value is to replace the lights around your home.

"Changing the lights of the house every half a decade will instantly lead to a bump in the value," said Samantha Odo, real estate expert at Precondo. "You can replace the existing lights with some trendy smart lights and LEDs. These lights brighten up the whole mood of the house and give it a fresh look. The best part is that these lights are super easy to install, with their simpler designs and models."

KenWiedemann / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Upgrade Your Landscaping

The outside of your home is its first impression, so spend some time making sure your lawn and landscaping are in good shape.

"Without the help of a professional interior designer or expensive budgets, the outdoors can be made more appealing," said Matt Ward, realtor and team lead of the Matt Ward Group with Keller Williams Realty. "Common tricks can be planting small bushes or hedges, creating gravel paths, removing weedy grasses or adding small lamps."

iStock.com

Update Your Backsplashes

"Homeowners can upgrade the look of their bathrooms and kitchen by adding backsplashes or vanity tile," said Andra DelMonico, home improvement and design expert at Trendey.

For a DIY approach, use peel and stick tile, which is made of vinyl and doesn't require all of the work that traditional tile requires.

"It's also affordable at $0.20 to $2 per square foot," DelMonico said. "It's hard to say what a backsplash ROI is; however, kitchen remodels have one of the highest ROIs at 86%."

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 8 Do-It-Yourself Home Improvements That Add Value
Today we'll do a simple run through of a valuation method used to estimate the attractiveness of accesso Technology Group plc (LON:ACSO) as an investment opportunity by taking the expected future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. We will use the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model on this occasion. Models like these may appear beyond the comprehension of a lay person, but they're fairly easy to follow.

Companies can be valued in a lot of ways, so we would point out that a DCF is not perfect for every situation. Anyone interested in learning a bit more about intrinsic value should have a read of the Simply Wall St analysis model.

Check out our latest analysis for accesso Technology Group

The method

We use what is known as a 2-stage model, which simply means we have two different periods of growth rates for the company's cash flows. Generally the first stage is higher growth, and the second stage is a lower growth phase. To begin with, we have to get estimates of the next ten years of cash flows. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, so we need to discount the sum of these future cash flows to arrive at a present value estimate:

10-year free cash flow (FCF) estimate

2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 Levered FCF ($, Millions) US$17.7m US$23.9m US$29.6m US$30.8m US$31.8m US$32.5m US$33.1m US$33.7m US$34.1m US$34.6m Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x2 Analyst x2 Analyst x2 Est @ 3.96% Est @ 3.04% Est @ 2.39% Est @ 1.94% Est @ 1.62% Est @ 1.4% Est @ 1.24% Present Value ($, Millions) Discounted @ 5.8% US$16.7 US$21.3 US$25.0 US$24.6 US$24.0 US$23.2 US$22.4 US$21.5 US$20.6 US$19.7

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = US$219m

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The second stage is also known as Terminal Value, this is the business's cash flow after the first stage. The Gordon Growth formula is used to calculate Terminal Value at a future annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 0.9%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 5.8%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2031  (1 + g)  (r  g) = US$35m (1 + 0.9%)  (5.8% 0.9%) = US$713m

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= US$713m ( 1 + 5.8%)10= US$407m

The total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is US$626m. In the final step we divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Compared to the current share price of UK7.0, the company appears quite undervalued at a 42% discount to where the stock price trades currently. Remember though, that this is just an approximate valuation, and like any complex formula - garbage in, garbage out.

dcf

The assumptions

The calculation above is very dependent on two assumptions. The first is the discount rate and the other is the cash flows. If you don't agree with these result, have a go at the calculation yourself and play with the assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at accesso Technology Group as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 5.8%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.011. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business.

Moving On:

Whilst important, the DCF calculation ideally won't be the sole piece of analysis you scrutinize for a company. The DCF model is not a perfect stock valuation tool. Preferably you'd apply different cases and assumptions and see how they would impact the company's valuation. If a company grows at a different rate, or if its cost of equity or risk free rate changes sharply, the output can look very different. Why is the intrinsic value higher than the current share price? For accesso Technology Group, we've compiled three further factors you should further examine:

Risks: Consider for instance, the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 1 warning sign with accesso Technology Group , and understanding this should be part of your investment process. Future Earnings: How does ACSO's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart. Other Solid Businesses: Low debt, high returns on equity and good past performance are fundamental to a strong business. Why not explore our interactive list of stocks with solid business fundamentals to see if there are other companies you may not have considered!

PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every British stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
China's banking regulator imposed multimillion-yuan fines on two banks for violating rules on wealth management products, the first such penalty since they came into effect in January.

The fines were imposed on Bank of China and China Everbright Bank and their wealth management units, both of which were established by their parent companies in 2019.

The rules seek to stamp out shadow banking risks by imposing stringent requirements such as leverage limits and banning malpractices like providing investors with an implicit guarantee against losses.

Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team.

Bank of China and its wholly-owned wealth management unit were fined 6.6 million yuan (US$991,000), while China Everbright Bank and its wealth unit were penalised 8.3 million yuan, according to the China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission (CBIRC) on Friday.

China Everbright Bank and its wealth unit were penalised 8.3 million yuan by the mainland's banking regulator. Photo: AFP alt=China Everbright Bank and its wealth unit were penalised 8.3 million yuan by the mainland's banking regulator. Photo: AFP>

"Leading state-owned banks have rarely been subjected to such penalties as they generally have more stringent internal risk management than other commercial banks," said Chen Shujin, an analyst at Jefferies. "The fines underscore how banks are still adjusting their businesses to fully comply with the new rules."

Since details of the new rules was announced in August 2018, banks had until the end of 2021 to align themselves with the new requirements. To adhere to the changes, Chinese banks have set up dedicated wealth management subsidiaries.

The CBIRC said on Friday that the two banks and their subsidiaries had products that flouted regulatory requirements. This included exceeding a 30 per cent market cap on a single security held by all wealth products marketed by a bank and crossing a leverage limit that caps total assets to net assets at 140 per cent for open-end mutual funds.

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Chinese banks continue to actively developing their wealth management business to compensate for the sluggish growth in their interest income, which has been weighed down by reducing lending rates to borrowers as banks heed Beijing's call to support the economy ravaged by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Banks still have room to grow their fee and commission income from wealth management services, analysts said.

The country's wealth management segment grew 12.1 per cent to 29 trillion yuan, servicing 81 million investors in 2021, according to a report issued by China Central Depository & Clearing.

The banks' wealth subsidiaries, meanwhile, reported a combined net profit of 24.4 billion yuan in 2021, more than double from 2020, an EY report on China's banking sector from May showed.

"With the new regulations, the new wealth management business model will also face challenges in customer onboarding, investment research capability, risk management capability and system optimisation," Kelvin Leung, EY's Greater China financial services banking and capital markets leader, said in the report.

This article originally appeared in the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the most authoritative voice reporting on China and Asia for more than a century. For more SCMP stories, please explore the SCMP app or visit the SCMP's Facebook and Twitter pages. Copyright  2022 South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.

Copyright (c) 2022. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, seen here in Glasgow in November 2021, called blaming mass shootings on the doorway designs in schools 'the definition of insanity' in an interview Sunday. Photo by Ian Forsyth/Getty Images

After the Uvalde elementary school shooting, some lawmakers proposed changing school design.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said it's insane to say school design is to blame.

Democratic lawmakers have pushed for stricter gun control in the aftermath of the shooting.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said it was insane to blame mass shootings on the design of schools.

"And the idea that us being the only developed country where this happens routinely, especially in terms of the mass shootings, is somehow a result of the design of the doorways on our school buildings, is the definition of insanity if not the definition of denial," Buttigieg said during an interview with ABC's George Stephanopoulos that aired Sunday .

The former mayor of South Bend, Indiana, said if he was mayor during a local mass shooting, like the one recently in Uvalde, Texas, the worst part would be having to talk "to families of people who have lost their loved ones and knowing that nothing you can do will bring those loved ones back."

"We have a horrific scourge of gun violence in this country and you know, as mayor -- as every mayor is doing around the country, you take the steps that you can to reduce community violence, to invest in partnerships, to make sure that you've taken the steps you can locally," he said.

In the aftermath of the shooting in Uvalde, where an 18-year-old gunman barricaded himself in a classroom at Robb Elementary School killing 19 children and two adults, some GOP lawmakers suggested mass shootings are a result of faulty school designs or not arming teachers.

During an interview with Fox News' Jesse Watters, Sen. Ted Cruz said adding bulletproof doors and glass to schools would keep them safe.

"Have one door into and out of the school and have that one door, armed police officers at that door," Cruz argued. "If that had happened, if those federal grants had gone to this school, when that psychopath arrived, the armed police officers could have taken him out and we would have 19 children and two teachers still alive."

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Many Democratic lawmakers have pushed for stricter gun control measures as more and more mass shootings rattle the country.

Other lawmakers have said resolutions like those Cruz proposed are not useful.

Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas told Politico he didn't want to revive ideas that haven't worked.

"What we do not need are solutions that have already been tried and done," he said on CBS' "Face the Nation. "I visit schools every day in Kansas City. Almost all of them are fortified. Most of them have armed guards these days, at least one. So these types of solutions they keep saying have been done."

Read the original article on Business Insider
Attendees hold up signs during a Texas Rally for Abortion Rights at Discovery Green in Houston, Texas, on May 7, 2022. Mark Felix/AFP via Getty Images

Attorney Samantha Lee represented a woman charged with murder after her stillborn tested positive for drugs.

Chelsea Becker, who struggled with addiction during her pregnancy, was freed from jail after 16 months.

Lee told the San Francisco Chronicle she expects similar prosecution for miscarriages "to only get worse."

The attorney who represented a California woman charged with murder after her stillborn baby tested positive for drugs said cases like her clients' will "only get worse" amid a national crackdown on reproductive rights.

Chelsea Becker, who struggled with addiction during her pregnancy, faced murder charges in Kings County after experiencing a stillbirth in 2019, which the DA blamed on her drug use. Though she was unable to raise the $2 million needed to post bail and served 16 months in jail, the charges were ultimately dropped and she was freed in 2021.

Becker's attorney, Samatha Lee of National Advocates for Pregnant Women, told the San Francisco Chronicle her client's case  and a similar 2018 case  are part of a growing national trend of criminalizing pregnant people after stillbirth and miscarriage.

"When that door is opened, then anything someone does or doesn't do during their pregnancy could be charged similarly," Lee told the San Francisco Chronicle. "We're already seeing it, and we expect it to only get worse."

National Advocates for Pregnant Women has found criminal prosecutions against pregnant people have tripled from 2006 to 2020 compared to cases prosecuted from 1973 to 2005. As the Supreme Court appears poised to overturn Roe v. Wade protections after a draft court opinion was leaked, several states have laws in place to make abortion a criminal offense.

Becker, who had a second child who was placed into foster care and adopted before her release from jail, has since become an advocate for a California bill that would stop pregnancy loss criminalization.

"I hope that in the future, no woman will ever be prosecuted for losing a pregnancy," she wrote in a letter to state lawmakers.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Naperville police released this body camera video image of a man charging at a police officer with a hatchet Friday morning during a traffic stop at Bond Street and McDowell Road, prompting the officer to shoot and kill him. (Naperville Police Department / HANDOUT)

A veteran Naperville police officer fatally shot a man Friday morning who came at him with a hatchet during what officials described as a routine traffic stop on the citys north side.

The officer had pulled a car over about 11 a.m. in an office park near Bond Street and McDowell Road when a second vehicle pulled up in the same area, a Naperville Police Department news release said. A man in his 20s emerged from the vehicle and charged at the officer with an axe.

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In response, the 22-year police veteran pulled his gun and shot him.

The man was taken to an area hospital where he was pronounced dead. His identity is being withheld pending notification of family.

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Both the traffic stop and shooting were captured on video from a new body-worn camera issued to Naperville officers in the past several weeks. A photo taken from the video was released by the police department.

The officer involved in the shooting was not injured and has not been identified. Its not know if he remains on active duty.

No information was released on whether the man who was shot knew the parties involved in the traffic stop or what might have provoked the attempted attack.

The DuPage County Metropolitan Emergency Response and Investigative Team, known as MERIT, and the DuPage County States Attorneys Office are conducting the independent investigation into the incident.

Anyone who witnessed the incident is asked to call Lt. Jeremy Thayer, commander of MERITs public integrity team, at 630-434-5653.

Naperville Mayor Steven Chirico said police-involved fatal shootings are rare in Naperville  its only the third case in the departments history  and the photo released by the police proves the importance of the new body-worn cameras.

To have the body cams on for what, two weeks now or so, is just unbelievable, Chirico said. This is exactly what we were referring to when we said that this protects everybody, both citizens and the police, against bad actors. This is just an example of how it came into play. Its incredible.

The last fatal police shooting in Naperville occurred March 22, 2011, when William C. Ladew, a 47-year-old ex-convict from Aurora, was killed after he came at police with a butcher knife while at an independent living facility on West Ogden Avenue.

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A formal police investigation concluded Sgt. Steven Schindlbeck and Officer John Reed were justified when they shot Ladew six times.

The city first fatal police shooting was on Jan. 23, 2002, and also involved Schindlbeck, who killed David B. Kasmar outside his home on Parkfield Court in the Spring Brook Estates/West Wind Estates neighborhood.

Police were told an intoxicated Kasmar, 46, was threatening his family with a knife. Kasmar later shouted at police that he was armed and had explosives in his basement. As three officers were inside the house talking to Kasmar, he ran from them and out into the front yard.

When he fired a .357-caliber Magnum at Schindlbeck, who was standing about 15 feet away, Schindlbeck returned fire and hit Kasmar in the abdomen. Investigators concluded Schindlbeck was factually and legally justified in the use of deadly force.

On Jan. 23, 2019, Naperville Officer Jordan Koziel shot his weapon seven times striking Zachery Kelley, of Naperville, once in his right shoulder and once in his left knee after Kelley pointed his weapon in the direction of police in a parking lot outside on West Ogden Avenue.

Kelley survived and was found guilty of aggravated assault to a police officer.

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The DuPage County States Attorneys Office found that Koziel had acted appropriately.

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In this Jan. 6, 2021 file photo rioters supporting President Donald Trump storm the Capitol in Washington. John Minchillo/AP

Jonathan Munafo, 35, pleaded guilty to threatening a 911 dispatcher on his way to the Capitol riot.

He repeatedly called the line, demanding to speak to a deputy sheriff or sergeant about "unspecified issues."

Munafo was previously indicted after prosecutors alleged he attacked a Capitol police officer and stole their riot shield.

An accused January 6 Capitol rioter admitted his guilt in a separate case after he threatened a 911 dispatcher, authorities said.

Jonathan Joshua Munafo, a 35-year-old from Massachusetts, pleaded guilty to communicating a threat in interstate commerce, the US Attorney's Office of the Western District of Michigan announced last week.

On January 5, 2021, Munafo placed more than 140 calls to the Calhoun County, Michigan 911 dispatch line, demanding to speak to a deputy sheriff or sergeant about "unspecified issues," the US Attorney's office said in a statement.

Munafo didn't have an emergency to report, so the dispatcher told him to clear the line. Instead, he called back "repeatedly," the statement said.

"He threatened her, 'I'm gonna cut your throat. I'm gonna make you eat your fucking nose,'" the statement said. "He said after the 'Insurrection Act,' he was 'coming to your door first,' and said, 'it's going to go way worse for your family.'"

According to court documents, Munafo said: "Put a fucking cop on the phone now, you stupid bitch, or it's gonna go way worse for your family. I'm not joking, this is not some bullshit call!"

When asked by the 911 dispatcher not to make threats, court documents say Munafo responded: "Hey lady, I'm telling you, this isn't a fucking threat, it's a promise."

Munafo made the calls from a North Carolina truck stop, the US Attorney's Office said, citing cell phone location records.

The next day, he participated in the Capitol riot, where prosecutors allege he attacked a Capitol police officer and stole their riot shield.

At least 846 people have been charged in the Capitol insurrection so far, and 298 rioters have pleaded guilty for their role in the attack.

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"We will not tolerate threats of this kind," US Attorney Mark Totten said in the statement. "Emergency dispatchers do critical work, under stressful circumstances, to keep the community safe. No one, especially front-line public servants, should face threats of death or other physical violence."

Munafo faces five years in prison. His sentencing is scheduled for October, according to CBS News' Scott MacFarlane, who first reported the news.

Munafo's listed attorney, a federal public defender, declined to comment on Sunday.

Read the original article on Insider
BEIJING (AP)  China on Sunday launched a new three-person mission to complete assembly work on its permanent orbiting space station.

The Shenzhou 14 crew will spend six months on the Tiangong station, during which they will oversee the addition of two laboratory modules to join the main Tianhe living space that was launched in April 2021.

Their spaceship blasted off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on the edge of the Gobi Desert at 10:44 a.m. (0244 GMT) atop the crewed space flight programs workhorse Long March 2F rocket. Fifteen minutes later, it reached low Earth orbit and opened its solar panels, drawing applause from ground controllers in Jiuquan and Beijing.

The launch was broadcast live on state television, indicating a rising level of confidence in the capabilities of the space program, which has been promoted as a sign of China's technological progress and global influence.

Commander Chen Dong and fellow astronauts Liu Yang and Cai Xuzhe will assemble the three-module structure joining the existing Tianhe with Wentian and Mengtian, due to arrive in July and October. Another cargo craft, the Tianzhou-3, remains docked with the station.

The arrival of the new modules will provide more stability, more powerful functions, more complete equipment, said Chen, 43, who was a member of the Shenzhou 11 mission in 2016, at a press conference Saturday.

Liu, 43, is also a space veteran and was Chinas first female astronaut to reach space aboard the Shenzhou 9 mission in 2012. Cai, 46, is making his first space trip.

Chinas space program launched its first astronaut into orbit in 2003, making it only the third country to do so on its own after the former Soviet Union and the U.S.

It has landed robot rovers on the moon and placed one on Mars last year. China has also returned lunar samples and officials have discussed a possible crewed mission to the moon.

Chinas space program is run by the ruling Communist Partys military wing, the Peoples Liberation Army, prompting the U.S. to exclude it from the International Space Station.

Chen, Liu and Cai will be joined at the end of their mission for three to five days by the crew of the upcoming Shenzhou 15, marking the first time the station will have had six people aboard.
KRIV

Houston police say a woman was chased through a gas station parking lot, knocked to the ground, punched and then robbed. The incident occurred around 2 a.m. May 23 in the parking lot of a gas station the 7600 block of Airline in Houston. Police need the public's help to identity the three female suspects. (Video: Houston Police Department)
CNN is pulling back on the use of its breaking news banner, long a staple of the network.

New CNN President Chris Licht told employees that moving forward, the banner would signify something BIG is happening, part of a slew of editorial changes he is making after taking the helm of the cable news giant last month.

The New York Times reported on Sunday that the change has now been made in CNNs standards guide, which indicates the breaking news banner should only appear when the story is stop what you are doing and watch news.

When that threshold is met, the standards guide states the label should only appear on screen for one hour, unless it involves events like a school shooting, major hurricane or death of a world leader, according to the Times.

The Hill has reached out to CNN for comment.

Its impact has become lost on the audience, Mr. Licht said of the breaking news banner in his memo sent to staff on Thursday.

He also told employees that the network was creating a new beat focusing on Guns in America and focusing on hiring for critical vacancies.

Licht replaced former CNN President Jeff Zucker, who was ousted over ethical concerns about a relationship with a co-worker revealed as part of an investigation stemming from the firing of Chris Cuomo, the networks top prime-time host.

Since taking over the network, Licht has reportedly taken a more hands-off approach than his predecessor, who was known as a micromanager who often influenced day-to-day editorial operations.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Local organizers held a rally in support of gun control on Sunday afternoon in Davidson.

The rally comes after another deadly weekend in the United States, with three major mass shootings in three states within the past 24 hours, in Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and Tennessee.

Organizers started to plan the rally a couple of weeks ago in the wake of the tragedy in Uvalde, Texas.

The people who attended the rally said the problem is access to guns.

Community members told Channel 9s Glenn Counts that they want to see an assault weapons ban, enhanced background checks, and an increase in the age of purchase from 18 to 21 years old.

We wanted to meet and gather publicly to commemorate the victims and think a little bit about what we may do moving forward out by way of action, organizer Greg Snyder said.

Part of the program at the rally involved reading the names of the mass shooting victims in Tulsa, Oklahoma; Uvalde,Texas; and Buffalo, New York.

That moment meant a lot for Darnella Reeder, who lives in Charlotte but is from Buffalo. Two of Reeders cousins were killed in the mass shooting at a Buffalo grocery store.

It meant more than anybody could ever know to kind of represent, to keep their names alive, Reeder said.

ALSO READ: Governors diverge on gun control, school security efforts

Reeder said its important to realize that every victim had a family and a life just like us.

Its so easy for us to go back to our day to day lives and continually start to forget more and more that there are real people with real families, Reeder said.

Leslie Cosentine, one of the teachers of 15-year-old John Daniel Morales who was killed by two other teens during Memorial Day weekend, was at the rally.

My reason is was just crying out enough was enough, for Uvalde, and then Tulsa and then John, Cosentine said.

The participants said their goal was to force change for the long haul.

Christy Clark, with the organization Moms Demand Action, said she believes the problem may be rooted in politics.

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When legislators are making decisions about a gun bill, they are not thinking with their heart, They are thinking with the dollars that the NRA has given to them, Clark said.

Participants said the rally was the first step in defeating those politicians at the ballot box.

(WATCH BELOW: Everybody is against it: Ukrainians rally in uptown Charlotte to protest Russian invasion)








Finnley Armacost had a heavy decision to make his first year at the University of California, San Diego: Would he tell his peers that he was transgender?

He knew the stakes. In high school, he wanted to join the military and even joined his schools chapter of the Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps, a federally subsidized military prep program. He did well, climbing to a top-ranking position.

But around that time, Armacost came out to his peers and instructors. The once welcoming group became hostile. He overheard slurs, and it became clear he needed to leave. He worried a similar scenario might play out again in college, and Armacost spent much of the first semester in stealth, not mentioning his identity to any of his peers.

I was really openly trans in high school and that wasnt the funniest experience, Armacost, 21, said. I just wanted a chance to be myself and taken for my own merit, and not have to deal with people navigating my identity.

HERE'S HOW TO SUPPORT: Schools aren't guaranteed safe for LGBTQ families

'WE HAVE TO BE ON GUARD A LOT': Why safety comes first for so many LGBTQ travelers

Armacosts situation will be familiar to many LGBTQ students starting their college experiences this fall semester. Theyre excited to be on campus and to find and express identities of their own for the first time, but they may still have fear about how theyll be received by their peers or instructors. There are hundreds of colleges in the United States, and it may be difficult for some students and their families to tell what kind of experience they may have on campus.

Students, staff and faculty from the University of California San Diego march in the annual San Diego Pride Parade in 2019. The university is one of just hundreds in the nation with a dedicated resource center for LGBTQ students.

The most accommodating universities will have created spaces and opportunities for students like Armacost to express themselves.

University of California, San Diego, has a resource center geared toward LGBTQ students. Its director, Shaun Travers, said most students first and foremost want an education. But once that need is addressed, students will want to know how they can be themselves on campus, Travers said.

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The sense of belonging is key to a students academic success, Travers said.

The best and worst of campuses

More Americans than ever identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or something other than heterosexual, according to a recent Gallup poll. That figure, 7.1% is double that of the 3.5% Gallup first recorded in 2012. Roughly one in five members of Generation Z identified themselves as something other than straight.

It may be intimidating for students that are part of this growing population to gauge which universities will allow them to be themselves.

LGBTQ advocates and current college students said friendly campuses have common traits. That may mean a special center on campus dedicated to LBGTQ students and programming, a major focused on queer studies, or even promotional art featuring same-sex couples.

AMERICANS SEE MORE LGBTQ PEOPLE ON TV THESE DAYS: That's absolutely crucial for our cause

Students shouldnt assume every college will be welcoming, advocates said.

Colleges arent liberal bastions of progress, and not all of them are safe havens, said Shane Windmeyer, a co-founder of Campus Pride, an organization that helps students find LGBTQ-friendly universities.

Campus Pride highlights the colleges that best serve these students, but also those doing, the absolute worst. Most on that list have religious connections. Some have even requested exemptions from the federal governments rules around sex discrimination that allow them to punish students or employees in same-sex relationships.

Members and supporters of the LGBTQ community attend the Say Gay Anyway rally in Miami Beach, Fla., on March 13, 2022, after Florida's Legislature passed a controversial bill that will limit classroom discussion about sexual orientation and gender identity. Critics complain the bill, which theyve dubbed Dont Say Gay will hurt LGBTQ teachers and students.

Campus Pride also receives reports from students around the country who encounter bias and discrimination on public and private college campuses. They document some of those cases on their Instagram.

That means students, and in some cases, their families, may need to do extra legwork when trying to decide if a college will be a safe place for them to attend. Resources like Campus Pride can help students navigate these spaces. Their list catalogs, among other things, if universities have non-discrimination policies, counseling services and housing for LGBTQ students.

WILL IT WORK?: Anti-trans bills could be one key Republicans use to rally their base ahead of midterms

What we know about LBGTQ young people, based on the limited research that we have, is that theyre at a high risk of substance use and depression, Windmeyer said. If we knew that about any other population, we would be taking responsibility and creating institutional measures to make sure they graduate in four to five years.

The Campus Pride list doesnt include all universities, and colleges have to pay an annual membership fee of $225 to have their listing updated, Windmeyer said. That means smaller universities or those with fewer resources may not be on the list.

Story continues below.

You need a place you can feel comfortable sleeping

As the number of LGBTQ Americans has grown, so too have the discussions around what an inclusive college campus looks like. Many universities now give students the option to include their preferred or chosen name in student registries. And some colleges have gender-inclusive housing open to anyone.

You need a place you can feel comfortable sleeping, said Genny Beemyn, director of the University of Massachusetts, Amhersts LGBTQ resource center. You need a place where you (can) comfortably go to the bathroom. If you cant do both of those things, its hard to exist on a college campus.

A staff member of the university who caters to these needs can tell potential students how they might be served and what resources will be available to them. And the presence of a dedicated staff member is also a sign that the university is making efforts to help LGBTQ students feel accommodated on campus, Beemyn said.

The University of Massachusetts is one of just hundreds of colleges with a dedicated resource center for LGBTQ students. The center's director, Genny Beemyn, said trans students have to feel welcome on campus to improve their odds of graduating.

Beemyn, who is non-binary, is also a researcher studying how colleges serve these students. They found in their work that the colleges that most effectively serve LGBTQ students have a paid staff member dedicated to these issues. That person, they found, was often trans themselves or at least a strong supporter of queer issues.

There was someone who was determined in making sure the campus is going to be trans inclusive, Beemyn said.

Beemyn also maintains a directory on Campus Pride of colleges friendly to trans students. That list includes institutions that allow students to choose their pronouns or names, those with gender-inclusive housing, and even those that will help to cover the cost of transition-related medical expenses.

GOING BEYOND A RAINBOW FLAG AT YOUR DESK: Here's the business impact of LGBTQ inclusion in the workplace

Sonya Epstein, 23, attends the university, and they said the university's resource center was important to them when they were choosing a college. But it was equally important that Epstein contact current students who could tell her what the campus was like.

The university also allowed them to enter their preferred pronouns and name once they committed to the institution. That saved Epstein from an in-person visit to an official university office to request the changes.

But a resource centers reach is still limited. Epstein, who was the president of the universitys student government, said their peers and administrators would misgender them so often that they stopped correcting them.

Its a mix of both looking for what the institution has listed as the resources, but also the more subtle things, like the actual opportunities that students can take up and what students lived experiences are, Epstein said.

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Not all accommodating universities may be on a list

These centers may be the gold standard when it comes to accommodating spaces on college campuses, but not every student will have the chance to attend such an institution.

Nancy Jean Tubbs, director of the University of California, Riversides LGBT Resource Center, said she maintains a directory of North American institutions that have at least a staff person or graduate assistant who works 20 hours a week on LGBTQ issues.

Currently, the directory has 278 listings, a few of which are in Canada, though Tubbs said she may need to revise that number downward. Thats a sliver of the roughly 4,000 four-year institutions in America, according to federal data.

LGBTQ Kent State University students are celebrated annually at their Lavender Graduation ceremony. These focused events can be a sign that a university is trying to create accommodating spaces for LGBTQ students.

Tubbs said while only a small number may have dedicated spaces or employees, students may be able to find support in other places. A campus, for example, might have a cross-cultural center that addresses issues like race, gender or sexual orientation. Students can also review the publicly listed student clubs to see if any mention LGBTQ issues as a focus. Or they could look for events centered around queer students, such as a Lavender Graduation, a dedicated ceremony for LGBTQ grads.

These offerings mean theres at least one person on campus thinking about LGBTQ issues, Tubbs said, and can serve as a jumping-off point for students looking to make more connections. Regardless of the size of the university, Tubbs said some students may still be cautious about seeking help.

We still have students who are not able to be out as LGBTQ with their family at home, Tubbs said. And the university does provide the opportunity to find their own identity and express it.

Completely different from high school

For some students, all it takes is a few connections to feel more at home on campus. Armacost, the San Diego student, initially joined a gay fraternity on campus. That led him to the UC San Diego resource center where he felt further welcomed by events, including an orientation geared specifically toward LGBTQ students.

He also serves in a mentor program through the center where he helps new students feel welcome. One of his mentees, an international student, told Armacost he hadnt been able to discuss being gay at home. Ultimately, the sense of belonging at UC San Diego made it easier for Armacost to come out to his friends.

Sometimes people treat you very differently when they find out even though Im the same person I was five minutes ago, he said. But they actually took it really well, which was completely different from my high school experience.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Is your future college LGBTQ friendly? How to spot a welcoming campus
Parched earth

New targets for reducing emissions, cutting back on fossil fuels and ending deforestation were agreed by world leaders at the COP26 summit.

Nations are meeting again in Bonn to discuss progress since the Glasgow Climate Pact was signed at COP26. So, are they keeping their promises?

Emissions: Possible fall this year

What was agreed?

In Glasgow, countries agreed to submit more ambitious climate plans, including cuts to emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2).

Why does it matter?

Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas which causes climate change. Reducing emissions is needed to help keep temperature rises within 1.5C. Above this could cause "climate catastrophe", according to UN scientists.

What's been done?

Countries were given a deadline of September to submit new plans - but currently only 11 countries out of 196 have done so.

However, recent analysis suggests that China has seen a continuous reduction in emissions since summer 2021. This could have a significant impact as it is responsible for 27% of the world's emissions.

What is COP and the Bonn Climate Change Conference?

Every year the world's governments meet at a climate summit called Conference of the Parties (COP)

The 26th of these - COP26 - was in Glasgow last year; COP27 is in Sharm-el-Sheikh, Egypt, later this year

The Bonn Climate Change Conference is halfway between the two COPs - to check progress

What was agreed at COP26?

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Fossil fuels: Energy crisis threatens progress

What was agreed?

COP26 included a plan to reduce use of coal - which is responsible for 40% of annual CO2 emissions.

World leaders also agreed to phase-out inefficient oil and gas subsidies. These are government payments that artificially lower the price of fossil fuels.

A graphic showing the countries with the highest government support for fossil fuels. The graphic shows Iran receiving government subsidies of almost $30 billion in government support for gas, electricity and oil. China is second highest with more than $25 billion, followed by India (over $20bn), Saudi Arabia (more than $16bn) and Russia (almost $15bn).

Why does it matter?

The UN climate science body, the IPCC, says fossil fuels are responsible for 64% of the world's CO2 emissions.

What's been done?

There are are now 34 countries considering new coal plants, compared with 41 at the beginning of last year.

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China, the biggest user of coal, agreed to stop funding "all overseas coal-fired power projects completely".

However, India - the next largest consumer of coal - announced in April that it was increasing production of coal power and reopening 100 plants.

Fossil fuel subsidies also increased in 2021, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). But Sabrina Muller, policy analyst at the London School of Economics, thinks this is a short-term measure to move away from Russian gas.

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Deforestation: Brazil hinders global progress

What was agreed?

More than 100 countries - with about 85% of the world's forests - promised to stop deforestation by 2030.

Why does it matter?

This is seen as vital, as trees absorb about 10% of the CO2 emitted each year.

What's been done?

Half the world's forests are in just five countries - Russia, Brazil, Canada, the US and China - so their actions could make a big difference.

In April, US President Biden signed an order to protect old-growth forests on government land.

But in Brazil - home to more than half of the Amazon rainforest - deforestation is up 69% on last year.

Frances Seymour of research group the World Resources Institute (WRI) said this was not surprising "in light of the relaxation of environmental enforcement" by Brazil's government.

Another challenge is in Russia, which is facing a significant wildfire season. It lost 6.5 million hectares of forest to fires last year.

Money banner

Climate action: Extra money, but more needed

What was agreed?

Richer countries agreed to provide $100bn (72bn) a year to developing nations for climate action by the end of 2022 - a pledge that was missed in 2020.

Why does it matter?

Developing nations need the money to move away from fossil fuels, by doing things like investing in green technologies. They also need to prepare for the worst impacts of climate change.

Climate finance chart

What's been done?

Despite the EU, US, Canada and Australia all increasing funding pledges, the WRI says they need to spend more because of their relative wealth and previous emissions.

The UK, France, Germany and Japan are matching or providing more than needed.

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Methane - worsening situation

What was agreed?

A scheme to cut 30% of methane emissions by 2030 was agreed by more than 100 countries.

The big emitters - China, Russia and India - are yet to join, although China did agree in a deal with the US to work on the issue.

Why does it matter?

Methane is currently responsible for a third of human-generated warming.

What's been done?

Last year, methane levels had seen their biggest annual increase since records began, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Farming and the energy sector are the main sources of methane - and the increase in oil and gas use as Covid measures ease could be partially responsible.

More on climate change top strapline

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Top image from Getty Images. Climate stripes visualisation courtesy of Prof Ed Hawkins and University of Reading.
Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn. Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images

Murphy said the current gun reform talks don't include an assault weapons ban or expanded background checks.

The talks have come as the nation continues to grapple with the aftermath of mass shootings in Buffalo and Uvalde.

"We're not going to do everything I want," the Connecticut lawmaker said of a potential Senate bill.

Sen. Chris Murphy  who is playing a major role in crafting a bipartisan gun reform bill following deadly mass shootings in Buffalo and Uvalde, Texas  said that potential legislation resulting from the current talks will not include an assault weapons ban or "comprehensive" background checks.

Murphy, during an interview on CNN's "State of the Union," told host Jake Tapper that a bipartisan contingent of senators met on Saturday, with the group eyeing increased mental health funding, additional safety measures for schools, and "modest" gun control regulations as part of a package that could pass the upper chamber.

"We're not going to do everything I want," the Connecticut Democrat said of a potential Senate bill.

He added: "We're not going to put a piece of legislation on the table that's going to ban assault weapons, or we're not going to pass comprehensive background checks. But right now, people in this country want us to make progress. They just don't want the status quo to continue for another 30 years."

At it currently stands, the bipartisan reform may include narrower background checks  a provision that doesn't go as far as many gun-control advocates would prefer  but would be the sort of compromise that could help a potential bill overcome a legislative filibuster.

Murphy called the talks some of the most fruitful that he has witnessed since joining the Senate in 2013.

"I've never been part of negotiations as serious as these," he said. "There are more Republicans at the table talking about changing our gun laws and investing in mental health than at any time since Sandy Hook."

However, understanding the political reality of an evenly-divided Senate, Murphy said the discussions could potentially fall apart.

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"I've also been part of many failed negotiations in the past, so I'm sober minded about our chances," he said. "I'm more confident than ever that we're going to get there, but I'm also more anxious about failure this time around."

The senator, who as a House member in 2012 represented Newtown  the site of the deadly mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School where 20 children and six adults were killed by a 20-year-old gunman  has become one of the highest-profile gun control advocates in the Senate.

Last year, after a mass shooting at Oxford High School in suburban Detroit, Murphy pleaded for some sort of gun reform, even expressing that he would "settle" for legislation that was much narrower in scope that what he desired.

Immediately after the Uvalde shooting last month, Murphy once again pleaded with his colleagues to work with him on gun reform measures and lamented past legislative inaction.

"What are we doing? What are we doing? Just days after a shooter walked into a grocery store to gun down African-American patrons, we have another Sandy Hook on our hands," he said during a speech on the Senate floor.

Read the original article on Business Insider
VALENTYNA ROMANENKO - SUNDAY, 5 JUNE 2022, 11:22

The Ukrainian Armed Forces have broadcast [footage of] their destruction of Russian depots filled with fuel, equipment and ammunition.

Source: 45th Separate Artillery Brigade of the Ukrainian Army on Facebook

Details: According to the report, the warehouse was discovered as a result of aerial reconnaissance. Although the Russians were deploying electronic warfare equipment and a drone was lost, a forward observation post showed that the Ukrainian gunners' strikes were accurate and ammunition and fuel were detonating and exploding throughout the night.

The location and timing of the incident was not disclosed. Usually, the military publishes video some time after hostilities, when doing so no longer poses a danger to Ukrainian Defence Forces.
Kevin Wagner

The Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution reads: A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.

There are two significant competing interpretations of the Second Amendment. The first is that it provides a collective right to states, not individuals, to bear arms as part of a well regulated militia. In the 18th century, at the time of ratification, American states did not have standing armies, so when a military force was needed the state would call up the militia, which would be able-bodied local men bringing their weapons to an assembly point. Without individual ownership of a firearm, there could be no militia.

A AK-47 with a bump stock installed at Good Guys Gun and Range on February 21, 2018 in Orem, Utah. The bump stock is a device that allows a semi-automatic to fire at a rapid rate much like a fully automatic gun.

The U.S. Supreme Court lent support to this interpretation in United States v. Miller (1939). In Miller, the Court considered the case of an unlawful transport of a sawed-off shotgun under the National Firearms Act (1934). The unanimous Supreme Court noted that because there was no evidence that the weapon in question had some reasonable relationship to the preservation or efficiency of a well regulated militia, we cannot say that the Second Amendment guarantees the right to keep and bear such an instrument. The Court also comments that the weapon is not part of the ordinary military equipment and that it would not contribute to the common defense.

The alternative viewpoint is that the Second Amendment provides an individual right that is not limited by the requirement there be a well regulated militia. This view became the contemporary understanding of the Second Amendment after the Supreme Court reconsidered the issue in D.C. v. Heller (2008). In Heller, the Court held a handgun ban in Washington, D.C. unconstitutional and declared for the first time that the Second Amendment conferred an individual right to keep and bear arms. Interestingly, the Court in Heller did not reverse Miller, they simply distinguished it by noting that it was permissible to ban firearms that did not have a lawful purpose.

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As the Bill of Rights limits the powers of the Federal Government, there was some question about whether the Second Amendment limited the ability of states to regulate firearms. In McDonald v. City of Chicago, the Court decided that in the affirmative, with Justice Samuel Alito asserting that the fundamental right to keep and bear arms is incorporated against states as an element of the Due Process Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment.

However, the Court has recognized that this is not an unlimited right. In Heller, Justice Antonin Scalia writes that, nothing in our opinion should be taken to cast doubt on longstanding prohibitions on the possession of firearms by felons and the mentally ill, or laws forbidding the carrying of firearms in sensitive places such as schools and government buildings, or laws imposing conditions and qualifications on the commercial sale of arms. Justice Scalia also wrote in support of the ability of the government to prohibit dangerous or unusual weapons.

While it is clear some restrictions are still possible, the extent they are permissible is less clear. To date, lower courts have upheld restrictions on juvenile possession of firearms, and concealed carry permits. Other restrictions such as certain types of licensing are currently being litigated.

Kevin Wagner is a noted constitutional scholar and political science professor at Florida Atlantic University. The answers provided do not necessarily represent the views of the university.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Courts have reinterpreted the Second Amendment. So, what does it mean?
Workers arrange Zongzi leaves at a company in Sangzhi County, central China's Hunan Province, April 19, 2022. (Xinhua)

New York City resident Catherine Zhang made her way down to the nearby Chinatown to buy Zongzi, a traditional Chinese delicacy wrapped in bamboo or reed leaves, for the Dragon Boat Festival celebration.

For Chinese people, making and eating Zongzi or glutinous rice dumplings is the most iconic way of celebrating this annual traditional festival, which fell on Friday this year.

"Every time I have Zongzi, the fragrance of its leaves reminds me of my hometown," said Zhang, who travelled to the United States from central China's Hunan Province.

Meanwhile, a remote mountainous county called Sangzhi in Zhang's hometown of Hunan has been associated with Zongzi for many years, as it is one of the best sources of Zongzi leaves in China. The sales volume of frozen Zongzi leaves from Sangzhi accounts for 70 percent of the whole Chinese market.

"Our domestic sales are mostly sold to large food factories in provinces of Jiangsu and Zhejiang, while our exports are sold to the European, American and Southeast Asian markets," said Peng Keke, general manager of a Zongzi leaves company in Sangzhi County.

"Thanks to these leaves, we are able to stay financially afloat," said Wu Shiyun, a staff member working with the company. The Zongzi leaves have generated stable jobs and decent incomes for the locals, including farmers, stay-at-home moms, and people with disabilities.

"During the epidemic, the demand for pre-made and frozen food increased, and the market for Zongzi leaves grew as a result," said Peng.

Over 60,000 farmers in the county use Zongzi leaves to enhance their yearly per capita revenue by more than 5,000 yuan (750 U.S. dollars), according to the latest data.

Surrounded by misty clouds, humid air, and abundant water all year round, the county's temperate climate boasts favorable conditions for the growth of Zongzi leaves.

There are over 18,000 hectares of wild bamboo leaves in the county, mostly growing on high mountains elevated more than 800 meters above the sea level.

"The leaves will become increasingly valuable to the county's economy," said Zhang Zeping, a staff of the forestry bureau of the county.

"In the foreseeable future, we will develop 'zongzi leaves culture' to expand the value chains of the leaves. Our goal is to make the fragrance of these remote mountain leaves spread far and wide," Zhang added.
KATERYNA TYSHCHENKO  SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2022, 21:55

On the Donetsk and Luhansk fronts, the Ukrainian military on Sunday repelled 7 attacks and destroyed 20 pieces of Russian equipment; as a result of Russian shelling, 7 civilians were killed.

Source: grouping Joint forces, operational and tactical group "East"

Quote: "Invaders fired upon more than 20 settlements in the Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts, destroying and damaging 41 civilian objects, including 33 residential buildings, a hospital, a water supply system, a feed mill, a machine-building plant, and an agricultural enterprise.

As a result of these attacks, 7 civilians were killed. Data on the dead and wounded are being updated."

Details: The group's fighters repelled 7 enemy attacks, and fighting continues in two locations.

In the last 24 hours, military personnel of the Joint Forces Group destroyed: 4 tanks; 3 artillery systems; 8 armoured combat vehicles; 3 units of automobile equipment.

Air defence units shot down a Ka-52 combat helicopter and a drone in the sky of the Ukrainian Donbas.

In general, in the last week, military personnel of the Joint Forces group repelled 56 Russian attacks. They destroyed 18 tanks, 34 artillery Systems, 48 armoured combat vehicles, 3 special armoured vehicles and 44 vehicles.

Air defence units shot down two Russian K-52 multipurpose helicopters, two cruise missiles and 16 unmanned aerial vehicles.

In the area of responsibility of the operational-tactical group "East" on Sunday, 43 occupying troops were killed and 1 helicopter and 2 Kamov Ka-50 "Black Shark" attack helicopters were destroyed.
Elon Musk tweeted that the "total headcount would increase" at Tesla and salaried staff would stay "fairly flat."

Musk's comments came after the Tesla CEO sent an email to staff saying he would cut 10% of salaried jobs.

Tesla employed nearly 100,000 staff at the end of 2021.

After sending an email about job cuts for salaried staff, Tesla CEO Elon Musk seemed to retract his statements in a tweet reply Saturday, writing that the number of salaried staff may not change drastically.

Twitter account @WholeMarsBlog tweeted that Tesla's headcount would increase over the next 12 months.

Musk replied and said that the total number of Tesla employees hired would increase, but that salaried staff "should be fairly flat."

Musk did not clarify whether or not existing salaried employees would become hourly employees or if new employees would be hired at Tesla.

Musk said that he had a "super bad feeling" regarding the economy in an email titled "pause all hiring worldwide" sent to Tesla executives on Friday. As a result, Musk said he would need to cut 10% of salaried staff, Reuters reported.

Musk wrote that the amount of hourly employees at Tesla would increase. The Tesla CEO said that the memo did not apply to anyone "building cars, battery packs or installing solar," Reuters reported.

Two days prior, Musk sent a memo to his executive staff telling them to return to the office or resign, Electrek reported.

Tesla employed 100,000 by the end of last year, according to an SEC filing.

A spokesperson for Tesla did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment.

Read the original article on Business Insider
OAKLAND, Calif.  A former U.S. Air Force staff sergeant and alleged member of the boogaloo extremist movement was sentenced to 41 years in prison Friday for the fatal shooting of a federal security officer in the San Francisco Bay Area amid large 2020 protests against police brutality.

Steven Carrillo, 33, had pleaded guilty earlier this year to a federal murder charge in the killing of David Patrick Underwood and to the attempted murder of Underwoods colleague after federal prosecutors agreed not to seek the death penalty.

The men were shot on May 29, 2020, while they stood in front of a federal building in Oakland as hundreds marched on the streets.

In February, Carrillo admitted to posting messages on Facebook a day before the shooting asking anyone if they were down to boog and saying he was ready to act and not just talk. He also admitted firing 19 rounds from a homemade AR-15 rifle from the back of a white van being driven by a man he connected with online.

I aligned myself with the anti-government movement and wanted to carry out violent acts against federal law enforcement officers in particular, Carrillo said then.

Prosecutors on Jan. 31 said they would not seek the death penalty, but U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers said at a February hearing she was not convinced that a 41-year-sentence agreed to by prosecutors and defense lawyers was sufficient for Carrillos crimes.

Gonzalez Rogers had warned that she could reject the plea agreement if she didnt feel prosecutors and defense lawyers did enough to justify the sentence.

On Friday, Gonzalez Rogers sentenced Carrillo to the 41-year term, a lifetime of supervised release and an amount of restitution to be determined at a later date, a court official said. She spoke directly to Underwoods family, explaining why she had accepted the agreement.

I believe there is evil in this world.  But from what I read and studied as I tried to make and find logic in the illogical, as I have looked for answers, as you are frustrated and angry that such a tragedy could happen, what I can tell you is that I do not see evil in Mr. Carrillo, the judge was quoted as saying by the Mercury News.

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I know [the plea agreement] wont make you happy but I need you to trust me. I would not accept it if I saw no measure of redemption, she said. He will spend virtually the rest of his life in prison in a cell that is typically no bigger than 10 by 6  not even bigger than that jury box.

Prosecutors have said Carrillo, of Santa Cruz, had ties to the boogaloo movement  a concept embraced by a loose network of gun enthusiasts and militia-style extremists. Experts say the group started in alt-right culture on the internet with the belief that there is an impending U.S. civil war.

Authorities accused Carrillo of fatally shooting Underwood after spraying a guard shack he was in with bullets.

Prosecutors said Robert Alvin Justus Jr., of Millbrae, drove the van. He faces federal charges of murder and attempted murder in the case.

The pair is accused of driving to Oakland and taking advantage of the distraction afforded by people marching through the citys downtown to protest George Floyds killing by a police officer in Minneapolis.

Carrillo was arrested a week after the shooting in Oakland after he allegedly ambushed sheriffs deputies in Santa Cruz County who were responding to a report of a van containing firearms and bomb-making materials. Sgt. Damon Gutzwiller, 38, was killed and several other law enforcement officials were wounded, according to authorities and court records.

Prosecutors in Santa Cruz charged Carrillo with a slew of felonies, including murder and attempted murder in connection to that killing.

Carrillo has pleaded not guilty to Gutzwillers killing.
The letter signed by more than 50 religious leaders was recently delivered to the governor with a list of demands aimed at curbing gun violence.

"As ministers of the gospel of Jesus Christ, and as agents of peace, we plead with you to use your legislative powers to enact sensible gun control regulations," the letter said.

This happened recently  in Tennessee.

Oklahoma's religious leaders haven't taken such action but some of them have definite thoughts about curbing the gun violence continuing to erupt on an increasing frequent basis across America. The topic is hard to ignore, particularly with the recent mass shootings in Buffalo, New York, and Uvalde, Texas, along with one much closer to home  the fatal shooting of four people at a medical clinic on Wednesday in Tulsa.

More: Tulsa shooting victim's 54-year marriage ends with no chance to say goodbye

Some leaders, like Rabbi Vered Harris, Archbishop Paul S. Coakley and the Rev. Jesse Jackson, said there are several measures that may be implemented to address gun violence while the Rev. Paul Blair said people and their morals are the issue and not guns.

Vered Harris

"My recommendation for gun control is that I do not believe that regular citizens should possess the types of guns, bombs, body armor, etcetera that our military possess," said Jackson, senior pastor of East Sixth Street Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Oklahoma City. "It keeps law enforcement from operating as quickly as they should act in crisis situations, such as in the school shooting is south Texas."

Harris, spiritual leader of Temple B'nai Israel, said researchers say commonsense laws could significantly reduce violent deaths and injuries.

"I would like to see us implement some of their recommendations for a period of 10 to 20 years  study what happens with suicide rates, mass shootings, and violent crime," she said "Let the data speak for itself."

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By contrast, Blair, senior pastor of Fairview Baptist Church in Edmond, said inanimate objects like guns aren't the problem and shouldn't be the focus.

"For some reason, my car is never guilty of driving drunk," he said. "Likewise, my firearms never go on shooting sprees. Clearly, the problem is not with the inanimate object. If so, no one could escape a gun show alive. The problem is with the morality of the people."

Paul Blair

What's faith got to do with it?

Unsurprisingly, religious leaders pointed to their theology as the foundation for their views on addressing gun violence.

More: How to help Tulsa shooting victims, families

Jackson said the biblical verse that undergirds him as a Christian is Matthew 5:9 which says "Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the children of God.

"I believe that we are called to 'wage peace' like others wage war," Jackson said. "I think that we have abdicated our trust in God when we are so frightened of one another that we cannot feel safe unless we are walking around with firearms on our sides like this is Dodge City in the 1800s. Even places as wild as Tombstone, Arizona, had gun laws."

Blair said Scripture is "consistent in the right to defend your life, family, and property with deadly force."

He cited Exodus 22:2-3.

"While the Bible is consistent with the command forbidding murder and abortion, man is allowed to kill trees for firewood or construction, animals for food and clothing, capitol punishment for first-degree murder, defensive warfare and killing in self-defense," he said.

Jon Middendorf

Meanwhile, the Rev. Jon Middendorf, senior pastor of Oklahoma City First Church of the Nazarene, said his views on curbing gun violence evolved from his theology about the sanctity of human life.

"We're on the side of life," he said. "I don't know how much stock I put into the opinions of those people who want to fight for the sanctity of life who then aren't willing to put forth any real effort or policy effort to try to preserve life by reining in gun violence."

He felt compelled to preach on the topic of gun violence on May 29.

"I think I am some combination of despairing and angry and exasperated," the minister said. "I had heard from our people that they wanted me to say something about it (gun control) and they didn't have to push me too hard  I wanted to."

Harris said one of the highest values in Judaism is protecting people's health and well-being, which includes physical safety.

"There are few values more important than saving lives, reducing trauma and protecting each other," she said.

"This is how we love. This is how we show we are listening when God tells us to love each other."

More: "He said, 'I just killed several people,'" ex-wife of Tulsa gunman says in 911 call

Richard Cheek, one of the leaders of Joy Mennonite Church, said he grew up Southern Baptist and was a member of the denomination for much of his life. He said he came from a military family, his father was a career officer. Cheek said he began exploring the theology of nonviolence espoused by groups like the Mennonites after his experiences serving in the Vietnam War. He left his Southern Baptist roots about 10 years ago for the Mennonite Church largely because of the latter's adherence to nonviolence teachings and that informs his views about gun violence.

"There's a big emphasis in our theology about following the teachings of Jesus," he said. " And we feel very strongly that Jesus taught non violence."

There is a propensity for violence in most cultures, Cheek said. "We just think more people tend to solve things with violence. We just think if people were more accepting of the idea of nonviolence, we would just have a lot less of that."

Some people tend to criticize Mennonites for being passive, but they aren't passive, he said. They believe in "active peacemaking  but only in ways that are nonviolent."

Calling on elected officials

Several religious leaders said communities should be able to call on elected leaders to confront the growing problem of gun violence head on.

Archbishop Paul Coakley blesses the grounds during the ground breaking of the new Love Family WomenOs Center on the campus of Mercy Hospital in Oklahoma City, Okla. on Thursday, July 15, 2021. The facility will expand womenOs services for pregnant moms and women of all ages.

The Most Rev. Paul S. Coakley, archbishop of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, shared his views on the matter.

We do not advocate for freedom from obligation or restriction, but rather freedom for excellence, freedom for human flourishing, freedom for living a good and holy life. The common good of society includes respect for life and for peace," Coakley said in a statement.

" As we mourn the loss of innocent life at Saint Francis in Tulsa, we encourage a discussion among our local and national leaders about preventing gun violence and suicide, which makes up two-thirds of gun-related deaths."

For specifics, Coakley said preventative measures can include broader access to mental health services, improved education and reporting of potential threats, gun safety in homes and reasonable measures of gun control such as background checks, waiting periods and closing loopholes.

"We need to provide concrete, tangible love and support to victims and their families, and also to those who are struggling, especially with isolation, alienation or depression," he said. "There are so many families, schools and communities that are in need of healing. Please pray for mercy, for justice and for peace.

Cheek said he couldn't speak for all Mennonites but he knew how many members of his local congregation felt about decreasing gun violence.

"Well, it's not hard at all to say what our position is  we're in favor as of as much gun control as you can possibly have," he said. "We recognize that there are legitimate uses for guns, but we would ban all assault-type guns. Some of us would ban handguns except for special circumstances where people have to apply to get them. Almost anything the NRA (National Rifle Association) is for, were against."

Jackson said he wasn't against legislation being passed to address to address what he described as a "crisis."

"Thoughts and prayers without legislation is cowardly, disrespectful to the dead and dereliction of my priestly duties," he said. "You cannot claim to be 'pro life,' then do noting to protect life."

The minister also shared his thoughts about the Second Amendment, which is championed by many Americans opposed to gun restrictions.

"Our constitution is a living, breathing document. It always has been. That is why we have amendments," Jackson said. "The framers of our constitution could not conceive of the type of weapons that we have today. This is not what they imagined with the Second."

He said it's important to note that how the constitution's framers viewed the entire world has been challenged since that time and much of it refuted.

"Even with the Declaration of Independence, it has been established that (Thomas) Jefferson never meant 'all' when he wrote the words, 'We hold theses truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal' All did not mean landless white men, Native Americans, Africans or women. What the Second Amendment means in modernity needs to be examined today.

Rabbi Harris, like Coakley, said she had some idea elected leaders could consider.

"We have tried reducing regulations and we are watching the numbers of active shooter and gun-related violence increase. Is there a correlation? Let's try stricter regulations and track it. Then let's make data-driven decisions to do what is proven to reduce violent death and gun-related injuries among our children, our neighbors, our friends, and our communities.

Rev. Derrick Scobey

The Rev. Derrick Scobey, pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church, said elected officials should take into account the numerous mass shootings that have occurred across the country, the "senseless loss of lives and the grief and trauma" caused by guns.

"I believe that if legislators look at gun reform through these set of lenses, they will then come to the realization that a change needs to take place," he said. "As most of us know, the Second Amendment is not an unlimited right to own guns, so I do believe there needs to be sweeping gun legislation."

Blair had an entirely different view of potential legislation considered gun control.

He said there's no basis for such legislation in America and he is against these types of measures.

"Congress has no authority to act even if they wanted to do so," Blair said. "Congress is the only branch of government that can pass laws. Neither the President, nor the court can make law."

America's founding fathers, he said, believed that God endowed man with certain unalienable rights.

"That truth was stated in our birth certificate when the 13 colonies became 13 states by seceding from British tyranny," Blair said. "The right to defend oneself, ones property and ones family from harm, spoil or attack was among them as part of natural law."

Blair said the states had fought to free themselves from tyranny and didn't want to create a central government with too much power.

Thus the Bill of Rights, which includes the Second Amendment, was crafted.

He said the Bill of Rights does not grant citizens any rights but it is 10 absolute declarations "reminding everyone for all time" of what the central or federal government could not do under any circumstances.

"Under no circumstance does the federal government have any authority to infringe upon the peoples right to keep and bear arms," the pastor said.

"My stance is irrelevant. However, I support the peoples unalienable right to keep armaments and use them for their legal defense of life, family and property."

What happened in Tennessee?

The ministers' plea to Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee followed a May 28 incident in which several people were shot, three fatally, in downtown Chattanooga. According to news reports, the Rev. Kevin Riggs, pastor of Franklin Community Church in Franklin, Tennessee, delivered the ministers' letter to the governor's office but he said it was dismissed.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma religious leaders share gun control opinions following Tulsa
When you think of Europes great cities, which are on your list?

I was lucky enough to visit three of those that have long been on my bucket list on a recent trip with Pioneer Press readers.

We explored Amsterdam, Brussels and Paris, and though I learned a lot and enjoyed myself immensely, I also found that Id like more time in each place.

I was charmed by Amsterdams mix of modern and historic architecture, but also its canals and quirky foods; by Brussels beer culture and the medieval beauty of Bruges on a day trip from there; and by, well, everything Paris has to offer.

AMSTERDAM

Even through the jet lag, I could tell right away that Amsterdam is a place in which I could spend some serious time.

Our hotel was along one of the citys copious canals and had a charming view of the National Opera & Ballet theater.

The hotels back entrance spilled onto Renaissance Square, which is packed with restaurants and bars, most of which have sidewalk patios where most patrons were seated during the beautiful spring weather. After arrival, I dropped my bags and headed out the back door, finding a seat in the midst of the action. I sipped a fruity Texels, the Dutch beer that I fell in love with instantly and sought out throughout my time there. I also scalded the roof of my mouth on bitterballen, little croquettes of molten, silky potatoes, often studded with little bits of veal.

I relaxed in the abundant sunshine until it was time to get ready for dinner, which was at the historic Restaurant 1e Klas in the citys busy train station.

It was lovely to get to know some of my fellow travelers while being entertained by Elvis, the restaurants show-off of a cockatoo, who pranced and preened and did tricks from his perch near our table.

The next morning, we were off bright and early to catch a boat, which took us on a tour of Amsterdam via canal. We learned so much from our local guide about the city, which is literally built upon the sea. The canals were built to protect the narrow buildings, which mostly rest upon piles  large wooden stakes driven into the wet soil. Modern foundations in the city are made of concrete, but many of the historic buildings still rest upon those wooden piles, and many of them charmingly tilt this way or that. During the tour, we floated past a group of houses called the dancing houses, a colorful grouping of row houses known for lilting every which way.

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The other part of canal living that I hadnt considered was the proliferation of houseboats, which line nearly every part of the canals. People live full time in these vessels, which are parked permanently in the city center. We passed many couples sipping coffee from their decks and marveled at the creative gardens that many of them keep on the decks and rooftops of their boats.

After the boat tour, we got a walking tour of the city, during which we tasted many local delicacies, including a wide variety of local gouda. (Turns out, the Dutch love their cheese almost as much as people do in my home state of Wisconsin. The average Dutch person eats 31.5 pounds of cheese per year, which is just a bit behind the dairy-loving state to our east, which is sitting at about 38 pounds.)

We also tried pickled herring. I still dont love the stuff in its natural state, but it turns out that when its deep-fried, its much more tolerable.

We learned that Suriname, and its cuisine, have become a big part of the Dutch culture and diet. The former colony, a tiny country on the northern coast of South America, is known for bara, which is essentially deep-fried soaked lentils, served with bright chutney. It was crisp, fluffy and delightful, and even the most Minnesotan of our palates didnt find the spicy chutney too hot.

When the tour was over, we were each handed a giant stroopwafel  the thin, caramel-stuffed waffles that are made to melt over a cup of hot coffee or tea  and sent on our way.

A thing I love about the Collette tours we take is that we have plenty of free time to explore on our own. There was one thing that was at the top of my list of must-dos in Amsterdam, and it was to see the Anne Frank House. Like so many teens, I read the book when I was about Annes age, and it made an indelible mark on me.

Climbing the narrow, steep stairs up to the annex where the Frank family hid for two years was incredible, and I couldnt stop thinking about how well young Anne described her living situation. And that if she were alive, shed probably be an accomplished journalist, novelist or both.

Despite the sadness of her story, it was heartwarming to see what an incredible legacy Anne was able to leave during her short time on Earth. A hush fell over the exuberant German teenagers whom I entered the exhibit alongside when they entered the annex. I even saw a few boys wipe a tear.

That night, I had dinner reservations with a few people from the tour. We ate at The Seafood Room, known for  you guessed it  seafood plucked straight from the sea. We noshed on oysters, mussels, clams, shrimp and more and headed home happy and full.

The next morning, it was time to visit Floriade, the once-in-a-decade horticultural expo just outside of Amsterdam. The grounds of the expo are sprawling, and will be turned into a sort of sustainable citytopia when the expo wraps up later this year. Many countries had pavilions with information about their sustainability efforts, and a giant greenhouse served as a showroom for colorful floral exhibits.

Honestly, though, as cool as Floriade was, it could not hold a candle to the next days adventure  the tulip-filled Keukenhof Gardens southwest of the city.

The giant gardens include 7 million flowering tulips, daffodils and other bulb flowers. Its a treat for the senses, and I happily spent hours wandering and photographing a rainbow of pert, vibrant flowers, all reaching charmingly for the sun.

Directly after the gardens, we headed south for Brussels.

BRUSSELS

A few hours on our comfortable coach later, we arrived in Brussels. Its a big city  and its growing  and if you think construction season in Minnesota is bad, you should visit for some perspective. Our arrival was delayed by at least an hour, during which we probably traveled five miles.

Our welcome dinner brought us to the center of this charming city, to another historic restaurant, Chez Leon, established in 1867. We noshed on moules frites  mussels with fries  and sampled the house beer, a delightful, light Belgian beer that was deceptively strong.

The next day, for most of us, it was off to Bruges, a UNESCO city a little over an hour northwest of Brussels.

The coastal city also has a series of canals, and most of us chose a boat tour to learn more.

Much of the medieval architecture of the city remains intact. Our captain and guide tells us that the step-like peaks on the roofs were meant to convey a closeness to the heavens. And the more money you had, the higher your roof could climb.

After the boat ride, we cruise into the Chapel of the Holy Blood and take a peek at a large vial with a piece of cloth that is said to have been saturated with Christs blood. No photos or speaking is allowed in the chapel, which is ornate and ancient, like so many in Europe.

On the way out, we stop at one of the many excellent chocolate shops in town and pick up some truffles and bars for our families at home.

For dinner, a few guests joined me for a delightful meal at Les Brigittines, a traditional but upscale Belgian restaurant. A tasting menu, which consisted of fat white asparagus, a tender, rich veal cheek and a pavlova smothered in fresh, sweet, very in-season strawberries, ran us a very reasonable $65 Euros apiece.

The next morning, we hopped on the high-speed train, conveniently located adjacent to our hotel, and set off for Paris.

PARIS

The train was a lovely way to travel. We saw lots of the gorgeous Belgian and French countryside and arrived in Paris in about two and a half hours.

As we waited for our hotel rooms to be ready, our coach dropped us in Montmarte, a bohemian artists neighborhood (Van Gogh once lived here) on a hill overlooking Paris. It was a lovely introduction to the city, with its cobblestone streets, copious sidewalk cafes and artists painting all around its main square.

We wandered around the streets for a while before settling on a spot for lunch. A modern art gallery we popped into had a selection of artwork dedicated to Prince. It seems Minnesotas most famous son has made his mark everywhere in the world.

I had real French onion soup for the first time, and marveled at its sweet/salty balance  so many restaurants in the states tilt it to far toward the salty side of things. And of course, a glass of champagne, because, France.

In the evening, I chose the optional dinner at Paradis Latin, a traditional cabaret show. The long and complicated roots of this show  its original home burned in the late 1800s  go back to 1803, when Napoleon Bonaparte created Theater Latin.

The show was wildly entertaining, from its flamboyant costumes to the acrobatic dancers to the copious amount of wine that was served.

In the morning, we embarked on the only bus tour of the trip  every other tour was on foot. It was a great way to cover lots of ground quickly and hear about the history of sites like the enormous Arc de Triomphe, the stylish street Champs-Elysees, the cathedral of Notre Dame and more. Though the cathedral tragically caught fire in 2019, its facade remains mostly intact, and it was worth getting out of the coach for a closer look at the ornate church and to see the extensive damage  and work thats being done to restore it.

We were set free for lunch, and I was determined to find a great baguette sandwich. I followed some business people into a little bakery and scored! Ham, cheese, lettuce and hard-boiled egg on a perfectly crisp-chewy baguette. I found a lovely spot on a bench in The Tuileries Garden and savored every bite.

That afternoon was one of the highlights of the trip for me  a visit to the largest art museum in the world, The Louvre. Every part of Paris is dripping with history, but this special place, which was originally built as a fortress, is full of the most beautiful history  art.

We saw the Venus de Milo, the Mona Lisa, priceless jewels and crowns, ornate frescoes and so much more. A few hours was definitely not enough. Ill be back, Im sure more than once.

It was a long day, but it wasnt over yet.

That evening, five fellow travelers joined me for what was easily the best meal Ive had in my life. It was my first two Michelin star experience, and it left me wondering what three stars could be like! We ate at Maison Rostang, a charming restaurant that was about a 20-minute walk from our hotel.

There was a seven-course tasting menu available, but only if the whole table indulged. We opted for the a la carte option, which meant three main courses (for me, fat, juicy asparagus, flaky sole paired with tender mussels and earthy morel mushrooms and the restaurants signature dessert, a crispy cigar stuffed with decadent cream) with a few amuse bouche courses thrown in and a post-dessert trio of incredible mini pies.

Though every morsel I put in my mouth was more delicious than the last, we were all a little put off by the fact that two different menus were distributed. One with prices, for the two men at the table, and one without prices for the four women. It seemed, frankly, outdated and sexist.

On our last day in Paris, many in our group chose a tour of the Palace of Versailles, which I would like to see at some point, but I really wanted to get out into the neighborhoods of this vibrant city, so I chose to take a cab to the Saint Germain de Pres neighborhood, in search of pastries and perhaps a few boutiques.

What I hadnt counted on was that most small shops in Paris are closed on Sunday. I opted for some crepes at a sidewalk cafe and then a stop at a local pastry shop for some fantastic kouign-amann and a box of macarons to share with all the guests.

That night, we said farewell to Paris with a charming dinner cruise down the Seine. Afterward, our lovely bus driver got us close enough to the Eiffel Tower that we could stop, get out and get a group picture.

Overall, it was a lovely trip with a lovely group of people, and a great taste of three cities that I definitely want to visit again.

Travel with Jess

Interested in traveling with Jess? Our next tour is going to Spain from Sept. 25-Oct. 6, 2022. There are still a few spots left! And in April 2023, shell be going to Southern Italy and Sicily.

Shell write another story like this one on each of those adventures, for you to have as a keepsake.

For more information on Spain, go to gateway.gocollette.com/link/1070070. For Southern Italy and Sicily, go to gateway.gocollette.com/link/1104385. If you want more information, you can always email Jess at eat@pioneerpress.com.

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Jun. 5About a year after merging with a New York company, Forcivity, a Manchester tech company, has been acquired by a Boston-based company.

The company was founded in 2015 as a Salesforce consultancy and system integrator.

Apps Associates, an application advisory services company, bought Forcivity in March. The company provides strategic consulting and managed services for Oracle, Salesforce, integration, analytics and multi-cloud infrastructure, according to its website.

Project demand for Salesforce services is growing, according to Paul Vian, senior vice president of sales and marketing.

"The extremely valuable talent and expertise from Forcivity has not only helped us to start addressing that demand, but its broadened offerings within our Salesforce portfolio  particularly for Service Cloud," he wrote in an email to the Union Leader.

In 2020, Forcivity moved into an eighth-floor suite at Brady Sullivan Plaza, 1000 Elm St. No decisions have been made on the future of the space, Vian said.

"Our primary focus has been on our people and making sure that everyone gets acclimated and settled in, regardless of where they choose to work," he said.

The acquisition allows Apps Associates to have "differentiating capabilities to help our combined clients improve their customer experience by leveraging all facets of Salesforce service," Vian said.

Last year, Forcivity merged with New York-based Jolt Consulting Group LLC.

For two years, Forcivity was New Hampshire's top company to land on Inc. Magazine's annual list of the 5,000 fastest-growing private companies in America.

"This acquisition is a plus on so many fronts  for Apps Associates and Forcivity clients alike," said Steve Baines, president and chief growth officer at Forcivity. "From our perspective, our client portfolio will now have access to a broader array of services to aid in their technology transformations  including access to global expertise and resources."

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Forcivity became App Associates' fifth acquisition.

Vian said the acquisition will create a range of career development options and opportunities for the combined workforce.

"The acquisition of Forcivity was a right-place, right-time situation that created a win-win for everyone," he said.

jphelps@unionleader.com
Geri Horner's message to The Queen confused viewers. (Getty)

Geri Horner has left Jubilee concert viewers cringing over her heartfelt message to The Queen which they deemed "intense" and "super weird".

The former Spice Girl was one of the celebrities offered the prestigious opportunity to record a few words offering The Queen their congratulations on her 70-year reign during Saturday's Platinum Party at the Palace, which aired on BBC One.

Read more: All the acts competing in the Britain's Got Talent final

But it seems some viewers felt that Horner got the tone a little wrong in a tribute that was branded "super weird".

Horner, 49, appeared as part of a famous face video tribute where she shared her feelings on the Jubilee.

Many viewers felt the former Spice Girl's words were a bit much. (PA)

She said: "Our Queen, kind... loving... strong... serving our country, the Commonwealth, uniting us all together.

"Always putting others before yourself, you're truly inspirational, inside and out, we thank you... we love you."

Read more: Charles pays moving Jubilee tribute to Queen

The reaction to her message was a little confused as viewers questioned the intensity of her words.

One person tweeted: "Um, that was super weird from Geri Halliwell..."

Someone else added: "Blimey, Geri Halliwell being completely over the top there."

Prince Charles made a speech at the concert. (PA)

Another viewer commented: "Lord, Geri Horner, that was a bit intense."

Someone else joked: "Im sure the Queen has always wanted a recorded message from Michael Buble and Geri Halliwell."

Platinum Party at the Palace included performances from Queen and Adam Lambert, Diversity, Sam Ryder, Diana Ross, Elton John, Rod Stewart and Lin-Manuel Miranda.

Queen headlined the concert. (PA)

While The Queen was not in attendance at the Buckingham Palace event, she still managed to delight viewers with an unexpected appearance in a humorous sketch with Paddington Bear, where they sat down to afternoon tea together.

The scene showed Paddington telling The Queen that he always kept his favourite snack, a marmalade sandwich, to hand as she replied: "So do I."

She then produced a marmalade sandwich from her handbag, saying: "I keep mine in here. For later."

Watch: Prince of Wales' tribute to The Queen at Jubilee party
By Fikayo Owoeye

LAGOS (Reuters) -Gunmen attacked a Catholic church in southwest Nigeria during mass on Sunday, killing at least 50 people including women and children, according to a hospital doctor and media reports.

The gunmen shot at people outside and inside the church building, killing and injuries worshippers, said Funmilayo Ibukun Odunlami, police spokesperson for Ondo state.

She did not say how many people were killed or injured at St Francis Catholic Church in the town of Owo but added police were investigating the cause of the attack.

Ondo state Governor Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, who visited the scene of the attack and injured persons in hospital, described Sunday's incident as "a great massacre" that should not be allowed to happen again.

The identity and motive of the attackers was not immediately clear.

"It is so sad that while the Holy Mass was going on, unknown gunmen attacked St Francis Catholic Church...leaving many feared dead and many others injured and the Church violated," said Catholic Church spokesman in Nigeria, Reverend Augustine Ikwu.

Ikwu said the bishop and priests from the parish had survived the attack unharmed.

A doctor at a hospital in Owo told Reuters that at least 50 bodies had been brought into two hospitals in the town from the attack. The doctor, who declined to be named because he is not authorised to speak to the press, also said there was a need for blood donations to treat the injured.

President Muhammadu Buhari condemned the attack, calling it "heinous", and the Vatican said Pope Francis was praying for the victims who had been "painfully stricken in a moment of celebration".

Nigeria is battling an Islamist insurgency in the northeast and armed gangs who carry out attacks and kidnappings for ransom, mostly in the northwest.

In the southwest, attacks such as this are rare.

(Reporting by Fikayo Owoeye in Lagos, MacDonald Dzirutwe, Camillus Eboh and Felix Onuah in Abuja; Editing by Catherine Evans, David Holmes and Lisa Shumaker)
Visitors to Grand Canyon National Park will have an opportunity to see vivid views of countless stars, constellations and planets and learn about the night sky at the 32nd annual Star Party.

The Star Party is returning in person June 18-25, 2022, after having been online last year because of the pandemic. Activities sponsored by the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association and the Saguaro Astronomy Club of Phoenix will take place at both the South and North rims.

Star Party activities are included with the park admission fee, which is $35 per vehicle, good for seven days.

Ready to stargaze at the Grand Canyon? Heres a complete guide.

You can see a galaxy with the naked eye: Astrotourism is an adventure 'you can't experience from photos'

Grand Canyon Star Party 2022: What to expect

The Star Party will take place on both rims over the course of eight days. Events include evening programming that begins at 8 p.m., constellation talks, telescope viewing with over 60 telescopes and photography workshops.

For eight days every June, park visitors and residents explore the wonders of the night sky on Grand Canyon National Park's South Rim with the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association and on the North Rim with the Saguaro Astronomy Club of Phoenix.

Telescope viewing at the South Rim begins at sunset behind the Visitor Center. The best viewing will be after 9 p.m. At the North Rim, telescopes will be set up on the porch of Grand Canyon Lodge every evening.

Dress warmly as temperatures drop quickly after sunset even during the summer. Telescopes will be taken down after 11 p.m.

More than 12,000 visitors are expected to participate during the eight days, according to Rader Lane, night sky park ranger at the Grand Canyon. Lane suggests that visitors bring red flashlights instead of white ones for a better after-dark experience.

Are you wondering why red light is helpful for human eyesight in the dark? The park service has an article about that: nps.gov/articles.

What does a park ranger actually do?: A lot more than you know

'What makes Hawaii Hawaii?': Exploring Hawaiian heritage at Haleakala National Park

Story continues

Grand Canyon Star Party schedule

June 18: Aaron Yazzie, a mechanical engineer at NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory, talks about the latest Mars rover he helped build and the connections between Mars and the Navajo Nation.

June 19: Learn about NASAs James Webb Space Telescope with John Durning, deputy project manager of the James Webb Space Telescope Project at NASAs Goddard Space Flight Center.

June 20: Get a tour of the universe with Dean Regas, outreach astronomer at the Cincinnati Observatory and former co-host of PBS "Star Gazers."

June 21: Learn how the International Dark-Sky Association protects the night sky from light pollution with Ashley Wilson, the group's director of conservation.

June 22: Find out the role Flagstaff played in training astronauts to go to the moon in the 1960s and '70s with Kevin Schindler, Lowell Observatory historian.

June 23: Enjoy classical string music under the stars when the Dark Sky Quartet performs.

June 24: David Koerner, emeritus professor at Northern Arizona University, will discuss life in the cosmos.

June 25: Learn about the Southern Paiutes' connection with the night sky with Autumn Gillard, Southern Paiute Astronomer at the Pipe Spring National Monument.

At the North Rim, constellation talks and other astronomy programs will be presented at 8 p.m. nightly in the Grand Canyon Lodge auditorium.

Find out more about all the activities at nps.gov/grca.

Grand Canyon's International Dark Sky status

The recipe to see stars doesnt just require a telescope and a dark sky. The Grand Canyon was specifically designated as an International Dark Sky Park in 2019 by the International Dark-Sky Association.

This designation is awarded in one of two ways: One, if a location is able to retrofit a certain percentage of lights to be dark-sky friendly; and two, if it demonstrates a commitment to education and outreach about the night sky. In Arizona, Kartchner Caverns State Park and Petrified Forest National Park are among the locations that have achieved dark-sky status.

At Grand Canyon, Lane said, 34% of the 5,000 lights in 2016 met the criteria to be dark sky friendly. Since then, over 1,500 light fixtures have been retrofitted to eliminate light pollution.

The process involved shielding the lights, using lower-wattage bulbs, adding timers to some lights and getting rid of some lights altogether.

I can't really think of any other place that has so much infrastructure while also maintaining such pristine natural darkness, especially within the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, Lane said.

That is to say, there (are) places in the country that are supremely dark, but they're incredibly remote and they're hard to get to. And then there (are) some places that have a lot of hotels and infrastructure and places that people can access, but that usually is accompanied by light pollution.

You can connect with Arizona Republic Culture and Outdoors Reporter Shanti Lerner through email at shanti.lerner@gannett.com or you can also follow her on Twitter.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Grand Canyon at night: Stargazing at the 2022 Star Party
(PA)

Supermodel Kate Moss has taken part in the platinum jubilee pageant just days after Johnny Depp won his defamation trial against Amber Heard.

Moss was a witness for the Depp team during the six-week trial, where she testified that Depp did not push her down a flight of stairs during their relationship in the nineties.

During the three-minute video appearance, the 48-year-old denied that Depp had ever pushed her in that way.

Depp was awarded $10 million (8 million) in compensatory damages and $5 million (4 million) dollars in punitive damages by the jury, while Heard was awarded $2 million (1.6 million) in compensatory damages.

On Sunday, for the platinum jubilee pageant to celebrate the Queens 70th year on the British throne, Moss rode atop a double decker bus with makeup artist Charlotte Tilbury, and Bridgerton actor Phoebe Dynevor.

Tilbury was the official beauty partner of the pageant and recruited the model and the actor to represent the nineties.

Taking to Instagram, Tilbury wrote: Darlings, we are all aboard the nineties double-decker bus to commemorate some of the most memorable and transformative moments of Her Majesty The Queens ICONIC 70-year reign!!

It is such an honour to be representing this incredible decade!! I feel so lucky to have started my career in the 90s, the era of SUPERMODELS, GLAMOUR and FABULOUSNESS!! So many of my WORLD-FAMOUS beauty secrets were born backstage in the 90s, from my ICONIC Charlottes Magic Cream moisturiser, which I used to mix to instantly transform the look of models skin, to my Nude Kate lipstick, blended by hand to mimic the natural pigments of Kates lips!!

Hundreds of national treasures joined the Time of Our Lives section of the spectacle in central London, which paid homage to the last seven decades of the monarchs historic reign.

(PA)

The celebrities, who have been pivotal to British culture over the last 70 years, travelled through the street parade in decorated open-top double-decker buses each themed to a decade.

Supermodels Moss and Naomi Campbell led stars on the 1990s pageant bus, which was designed in a denim style with images of figures like the Spice Girls.

Additional reporting by PA
China launches crewed mission to complete space station construction

Xinhua) 11:16, June 05, 2022

The crewed spaceship Shenzhou-14, atop a Long March-2F carrier rocket, is launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, June 5, 2022. (Xinhua/Li Gang)

JIUQUAN, June 5 (Xinhua) -- China on Sunday launched the crewed spaceship Shenzhou-14, sending three astronauts to its space station combination for a six-month mission.

The trio will cooperate with the ground team to complete the assembly and construction of the Tiangong space station, developing it from a single-module structure into a national space laboratory with three modules -- the core module Tianhe and two lab modules Wentian and Mengtian.

The spaceship, atop a Long March-2F carrier rocket, was lifted off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China at 10:44 a.m., according to the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA).

About 577 seconds after the launch, Shenzhou-14 separated from the rocket and entered its designated orbit. The crew members are in good shape and the launch is a complete success, the CMSA declared.

The crew will work with the ground team to complete the rendezvous, docking and transposition of the two lab modules with the core module, said Lin Xiqiang, deputy director of the CMSA, at a press conference Saturday.

The Tianhe core module was launched in April 2021, and the Wentian lab module is set to be launched in July and Mengtian in October.

The Shenzhou-14 crew will also witness, during their stay in orbit, the Tianzhou-5 cargo craft and Shenzhou-15 crewed spaceship dock with the core module. Then, they will live and work together with the Shenzhou-15 crew for multiple days before returning to Earth in December.

The crewed spaceship Shenzhou-14, atop a Long March-2F carrier rocket, is launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, June 5, 2022. (Xinhua/Li Gang)

The crewed spaceship Shenzhou-14, atop a Long March-2F carrier rocket, is launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, June 5, 2022. (Xinhua/Li Gang)

The crewed spaceship Shenzhou-14, atop a Long March-2F carrier rocket, is launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, June 5, 2022. About 577 seconds after the launch, Shenzhou-14 separated from the rocket and entered its designated orbit. The crew members are in good shape and the launch is a complete success. (Xinhua/Li Gang)

The crewed spaceship Shenzhou-14, atop a Long March-2F carrier rocket, is launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, June 5, 2022. About 577 seconds after the launch, Shenzhou-14 separated from the rocket and entered its designated orbit. The crew members are in good shape and the launch is a complete success. (Xinhua/Cai Yang)

The crewed spaceship Shenzhou-14, atop a Long March-2F carrier rocket, is launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, June 5, 2022. (Xinhua/Cai Yang)

The crewed spaceship Shenzhou-14, atop a Long March-2F carrier rocket, is launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, June 5, 2022. (Xinhua/Lian Zhen)

The crewed spaceship Shenzhou-14, atop a Long March-2F carrier rocket, is launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, June 5, 2022. About 577 seconds after the launch, Shenzhou-14 separated from the rocket and entered its designated orbit. The crew members are in good shape and the launch is a complete success. (Xinhua/Li Gang)

The crewed spaceship Shenzhou-14, atop a Long March-2F carrier rocket, is launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, June 5, 2022. About 577 seconds after the launch, Shenzhou-14 separated from the rocket and entered its designated orbit. The crew members are in good shape and the launch is a complete success. (Xinhua/Li Gang)

The crewed spaceship Shenzhou-14, atop a Long March-2F carrier rocket, is launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, June 5, 2022. About 577 seconds after the launch, Shenzhou-14 separated from the rocket and entered its designated orbit. The crew members are in good shape and the launch is a complete success. (Xinhua/Cai Yang)

The crewed spaceship Shenzhou-14, atop a Long March-2F carrier rocket, is launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, June 5, 2022. About 577 seconds after the launch, Shenzhou-14 separated from the rocket and entered its designated orbit. The crew members are in good shape and the launch is a complete success. (Xinhua/Cai Yang)

The crewed spaceship Shenzhou-14, atop a Long March-2F carrier rocket, is launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, June 5, 2022. About 577 seconds after the launch, Shenzhou-14 separated from the rocket and entered its designated orbit. The crew members are in good shape and the launch is a complete success. (Xinhua/Liu Lei)

The crewed spaceship Shenzhou-14, atop a Long March-2F carrier rocket, is launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, June 5, 2022. About 577 seconds after the launch, Shenzhou-14 separated from the rocket and entered its designated orbit. The crew members are in good shape and the launch is a complete success. (Xinhua/Wang Zecong)

The crewed spaceship Shenzhou-14, atop a Long March-2F carrier rocket, is launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, June 5, 2022. About 577 seconds after the launch, Shenzhou-14 separated from the rocket and entered its designated orbit. The crew members are in good shape and the launch is a complete success. (Xinhua/Li Gang)

Combo photo shows the crewed spaceship Shenzhou-14, atop a Long March-2F carrier rocket, being launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, June 5, 2022. About 577 seconds after the launch, Shenzhou-14 separated from the rocket and entered its designated orbit. The crew members are in good shape and the launch is a complete success. (Xinhua/Li Gang)

The crewed spaceship Shenzhou-14, atop a Long March-2F carrier rocket, is launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, June 5, 2022. About 577 seconds after the launch, Shenzhou-14 separated from the rocket and entered its designated orbit. The crew members are in good shape and the launch is a complete success. (Xinhua/Cai Yang)

The crewed spaceship Shenzhou-14, atop a Long March-2F carrier rocket, is launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, June 5, 2022. About 577 seconds after the launch, Shenzhou-14 separated from the rocket and entered its designated orbit. The crew members are in good shape and the launch is a complete success. (Xinhua/Lian Zhen)

The crewed spaceship Shenzhou-14, atop a Long March-2F carrier rocket, is launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, June 5, 2022. About 577 seconds after the launch, Shenzhou-14 separated from the rocket and entered its designated orbit. The crew members are in good shape and the launch is a complete success. (Xinhua/Li Gang)

(Web editor: Hongyu, Bianji)
A party for Chinese poem recitation on the occasion of the Dragon Boat Festival was held at the National University of Laos (NUOL) in Vientiane, Laos on Friday.

The gathering, providing Lao university students with an encounter with China's rich culture, was organized by China Cultural Center in Laos and collaborated with NUOL.

Hundreds of people, mostly Lao university students, gathered to learn and enjoy the beauty of Chinese poetry, accompanied by songs, music and dances in Lao style.

The Dragon Boat Festival, also called the Duanwu Festival, is traditionally celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth month on the Chinese lunar calendar. People in China usually race dragon boats and eat Zongzi, a sticky rice dumpling wrapped up with bamboo or reed leaves during the festival.

Director of The China Cultural Center in Laos Li Yiping said in the opening speech that she hoped this festive event will become a bridge of friendship to enhance mutual understanding between the people of China and Laos and promote the building of a community with a shared future.

The Duanwu Festival is to commemorate Qu Yuan, a patriotic poet and minister of the ancient state of Chu during the Warring States Period (475-221 BC) in the Chinese history.

As a poet, Qu Yuan is known today for his patriotism and contributions to classical verse. Lines such as "The way ahead is long and has no ending, yet high and low I'll search with my will unbending" are still spread widely.

"This activity not only increased our knowledge of Chinese culture, I also learned a lot about the origin of the Dragon Boat Festival in China, and traditional Chinese poetry," student Phonethip Chanthavong from the Faculty of Letters under the National University of Laos told Xinhua.

She added that the festival reflects Chinese people's love of the poet and also the patriotism of Chinese people.

"It is good to know more about Chinese culture through these kinds of activities," said Phonethip.

A student named Koun Chittasone, who has performed at the event told Xinhua that this celebration provided an opportunity for Lao students to learn and experience Chinese culture.

"I learned a lot from this activity. I learned about the origin of the Dragon Boat Festival and Zongzi in China. I hope this event contributes to enhancing and deepening the friendship between Laos and China," he added.

Head of the Chinese department in the Faculty of Letter under the NUOL Somsanouk Dalavong said this activity breaks the limitation that students absorb knowledge only from books, instead, they can personally understand and experience the Chinese culture and the relationship between Laos and China.

"Through poetry, we can explore and further understand Chinese culture and the stories behind their poems," Somsanouk said.
Detectives with Kentucky State Police Post 3 are investigating a possible murder-suicide Sunday in Simpson County.

Just before 6:30 a.m. Sunday, troopers received a shooting call in the 600 block of Patton Road in Franklin, according to a press release.

Troopers found Tierra Williams, 21, of Franklin, with multiple gunshot wounds. Williams was transported to the Medical Center at Franklin where she was pronounced dead by the Simpson County coroner, the release stated.

KSP attempted to locate her husband, Jeremy Williams, 25, in connection with the shooting. The press release states Williams was found dead in his vehicle on I-65 near the 23 mile marker northbound from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The investigation is ongoing, according to the release. KSP was assisted on the scene by the Simpson County Sheriffs Office, Franklin Police Department, Simpson County Coroner, Simpson County EMS, and the Warren County Sheriffs Office.
Leslie Joanne Wayne, the mother of record producer Metro Boomin, was found dead outside of the Atlanta area on Friday night, TMZ reports. According to sources speaking to TMZ, Leslies husband, who is not Metros biological father, is suspected of killing his spouse then taking his own life.

The grieving family, who is asking for privacy according to their reps, is now waiting for an autopsy to confirm the official cause of death.

Leslie, who raised Metro and his three siblings in St. Louis, noticed her sons musical talents at an early age and encouraged him to pursue his dreams. The devoted mother would drive her son from St. Louis to Atlanta so he could work with other artists.

Metro has been using his social media platform to express his love for his mother.

Happy Birthday Mom! My biggest inspiration!!

Enjoy your new phase!#LESLIETIME pic.twitter.com/mr12Jks9WG  Metro Boomin (@MetroBoomin) December 30, 2019

In a 2016 interview with THE FADER, Metro said his mother is his biggest inspiration.

My name is Leland Tyler Wayne, he told The FADER. My mom wanted to give me a name where, no matter what I wanted to do, Id be able to do it. An astronaut. President. Whatever. Leland Wayne.

Metro has produced hits for artists such as Future, Young Thug, Gucci Mane, Migos, Travis Scott, Drake, Kanye West and 21 Savage.
A British police man stands on duty across the road from Buckingham Palace, as tourists pass by in the background on their way to see the Changing of the Guard. RFStock/Getty Images

British police used a Taser on a man who was reportedly wielding a screwdriver on the Chelsea Bridge in London.

The man fell from the bridge into the River Thames. He was rescued but later died at the hospital.

The man was not identified to the public, but authorities said his family has been informed of his death.

A British man died after police repeatedly shot him with a Taser, and he tumbled from the Chelsea Bridge into the River Thames.

The Metropolitan Police said they were investigating a "disturbance" in which a man was "armed with a screwdriver and shouting" on Chelsea Bridge Road in London on Saturday, the police said in a statement.

"Officers attended the location a short time later, and they challenged a man on Chelsea Bridge. A Taser was discharged but this did not enable the officers to safely detain him," the statement said. "The man, who is believed to be aged in his early 40s, subsequently entered the river."

Video of the incident that was seen by the BBC shows police using a Taser on the man three times as he continued to pull himself up from the ground. Then, he hurled himself over the barrier into the River Thames as officers scrambled to stop him.

"A rescue operation was immediately organised. The man was rescued from the water by the RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution) and taken to hospital, where he died that evening," the police statement said.

While the man was not identified to the public, his family has been informed of his death, police said.

Frontline Policing Commander Alexis Boon offered condolences to the family and said in the statement that any situation "in which a person comes to harm following contact with police is understandably concerning."

The Independent Office for Police Conduct has launched an investigation into the incident.

"Our officers face some of the most challenging and difficult situations daily, in doing so they are fully aware that their actions should rightly be subject to public scrutiny," Boon said. "The Met's Directorate of Professional Standards made an immediate referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct following this sad incident, and we will co-operate fully with them as they work to understand the full circumstances."

Read the original article on Insider
A man was shot in Warminster while trying to sell items to someone he met online early Sunday morning, according to police.

Township Police Chief James Donnelly III said the victim, 27, arranged to meet a woman in the 400 block of East County Line Road. When the victim got there, three men beat him and he was shot in the shoulder.

They took the items he was trying to sell and his phone and fled.

The chief said the incident happened around 6 a.m. The victim went to his home in Warminster and his father drove him to Holy Redeemer Hospital, which then transferred him to Abington Hospital for additional treatment. He was in stable condition Sunday afternoon.

Three killed in South Street shooting:Police: 3 dead, at least 11 wounded in Philadelphia shooting on South Street

Man robbed in Bensalem online sale:Police: Man robbed at gunpoint in Bensalem during online sale

Warminster police were notified about the shooting about 7:45 a.m., when the victim was taken to Abington Hospital.

Anyone with information on the incident is asked to contact police at 215-672-1000.

In Bucks County, some police departments have "Safe Exchange Zones," where online exchanges can be made safely under police surveillance. In Warminster, the police department at 401 Gibson Ave. is a designated safe exchange spot.

This article originally appeared on Bucks County Courier Times: Man shot during online sale exchange in Warminster on Sunday
ROMAN PETRENKO  SUNDAY, 5 JUNE 2022, 12:59

Militants of the so-called "DPR" [self-proclaimed Donetsk Peoples Republic] abducted and "will judge" three foreigners who are allegedly facing the death penalty.

Source: the so-called "General Prosecutor's Office of the "DPR" [self-proclaimed Donetsk Peoples Republic]

Details: The militants say they have completed a "criminal investigation" of three foreigners - the British citizens Sean Pinner and Andrew Hill, as well as a citizen of the Kingdom of Morocco, Saadun Brahim.

According to the occupiers, "three men took part in Ukraine's armed aggression for a fee to seize power in the DPR".

The first "court hearing" will take place in the near future.

The militants write that three foreigners "may be sentenced to an exceptional measure - the death penalty."

For reference: According to international law, this is abduction, and foreigners have been captured; the "court" has no legal force.

The killing of prisoners is considered to be a war crime and has no statute of limitations.
Outrage and sorrow over recent mass shootings  at a Texas school, Oklahoma hospital and New York grocery store  wont have any ripple impacts on gun owners in Ohio.

Thats because Republican lawmakers and the governor are following the line of thinking of many conservative experts: Harden schools, add armed staff and let average people carry their guns everywhere. And despite whatever horrific event happens, dont blame quick and easy access to guns and ammunition for the bloodshed.

This approach might please the gun rights crowd, but the sizable number of Ohioans who favor stricter gun laws is angry.

In response to concerns about school safety, Gov. Mike DeWine has indicated he will sign the Ohio capital budget bill that includes $100 million for school security upgrades at K-12 schools and $5 million for campus security upgrades in higher education. That was passed Wednesday, as was House Bill 99, which lets interested teachers take up arms with minimal training.

Teachers, anti-gun activists and a Fraternal Order of Police lobbyist argued against HB 99, but Ohio's Republican lawmakers didn't care. They don't consider surveys like the one from 2018 showing 73% of teachers oppose guns in the classroom; 58% of teachers think guns in schools make schools less safe.

It's hard to understand why Ohio cant pass legislation that focuses on guns. New Yorks legislature on Thursday passed legislation banning anyone under age 21 from buying or possessing a semi-automatic rifle. It sounds like common sense to treat guns like dangerous products  we already have alcohol and tobacco laws that set a minimum age of 21.

In other controversial moves related to guns, Ohioans won more stand your ground legislation, removing the duty to retreat and freeing people to use deadly force in self-defense in a public place; and constitutional carry, the right to carry a concealed gun without a permit and training.

More: A look back at Ohio's major gun policy changes

Story continues

Its little wonder that young activists who spoke to a Beacon Journal reporter feel jaded about our political system. Instead of hoped-for gun restrictions, assault rifle bans and background checks, these Ohioans are seeing new laws that can only lead to more guns.

Certainly, we are not opposed to more security and better training at Ohio schools; the sad reality is its needed. But we dont take seriously the idea that everything but guns is to blame.

When President Joe Biden addressed the nation Thursday, he asked, How much more carnage are we willing to accept? Unfortunately, his many gun-control suggestions face long odds of passage in the Senate.

Too many conservatives are tuned into Fox News, where interviewees and pundits hammer school security, and also would like to see martial law, death sentences for shooters, a focus on mental health and self-defense training for students. The left-leaning watchdog group Media Matters has a video listing 50 such ideas from Fox broadcasts, and it closes with one mans telling comment: Its up to you to protect yourself.

All of this suggests that right-wing gun supporters want to talk about everything but guns. They claim, as they have for decades, that its not guns, its people.

Election: Nan who? Better known Mike DeWine has huge poll lead in Ohio governor's race over Whaley

Thats true, up to a point. But the same thing could be said about cars, and their use is heavily regulated. We must pass tests to drive a car, renew plates every year and pay taxes so the roads we drive on can be built and repaired.

If we are to accept mass shootings as a way of life, we must find ways to pay for advanced security systems and dramatically more police officers posted at schools. How about a special tax on ammunition, like gasoline taxes for roads?

Were certainly not suggesting that the government seize guns; such a task is impossible. There are an estimated 393 million civilian-owned guns in the U.S.

We are suggesting that voters choose lawmakers and leaders who listen to their constituents and support commonsense regulations.

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Allowing more guns everywhere does not create safer Ohio
It was reported back in April that Little Women: Atlanta star Ms. Juicy was hospitalized and in the ICU. Now after a month in the hospital, she is finally home and recovering.

Ms. Juicy, whose real name is Shirlene Pearson, recently took to Instagram to update her fans on her condition and revealed she had a stroke. During her stay in the hospital, she received an outpouring of love and support on social media from all her fans and celebrity friends, including Ricky Smiley.

Her time on the show

Ms. Juicy is a well-known radio and television personality who is one of the castmates on the Lifetime reality show Little Women: Atlanta. The show follows the lives of a group of little women who live in Atlanta. She is not only a cast member, but she serves as one of the shows executive producers. She was also a radio personality on The Rickey Smiley Morning Show.

Ms. Juicy was hospitalized and is now recovering

Fans were very worried when reports of Ms. Juicy being hospitalized hit the internet. Later, her management confirmed that she was in ICU and everyone hoped for the best. She is home and on the path to healing.

She recently posted a video on Instagram thanking everyone for their support. This was the first time that Ms. Juicy herself had confirmed that she had a stroke. She specified that her stroke entailed a brain bleed and that it caused different effects on different people. She also talked about how the stroke could affect motor skills and cognitive abilities.

I just wanted to let you guys know that I am back, she said in the video. Im not at 100 percent but I am still healing. This is a video to let all my fans, all my supporters, to let you guys know that I have been released from the hospital. I am at home."

She also talked about her recovery in the ICU, during which she said she had [learn how to] talk, learn how to talk, learn how to eat, learn how to swallow.

Not being able to work has put a strain on the stars finances. A GoFundMe was set up to help with her medical expenses when she was in the hospital, which she said she was grateful for during the IG live since she has no money coming in.

Ill be back at 100 percent when the time is right, she added. But I cant push it and I cant rush it. I love you guys.

Watch both videos below:
Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a leading gun control advocate in the Senate involved in recent bipartisan talks on the issue, said on Sunday that he is more confident than ever that a gun deal could be reached after a string of recent mass shootings.

A group of senators from both parties has been meeting about legislation to curb gun violence ever since a mass shooting killed 21 people at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, last month. The group, which includes nearly a dozen senators, has met at least four times.

When asked by CNN State of the Union co-anchor Jake Tapper if this is a do-or-die week for the potential package, Murphy expressed optimism that the group spearheading the talks could soon reach a framework.

I think, this week, we need to have concepts to present to our colleagues, Murphy said.

I dont know that were going to vote this coming week, but we need to make decisions on whether or not we have a sustainable package in the next five days, he added.

Murphy said the talks are focused on mental health funding, school safety measures, background checks and red-flag legislation.

Any such package would have to survive a filibuster, the Senates 60-vote threshold for most legislation. Gun control measures in years past have largely failed to pass the upper chamber.

Im more confident than ever that were going to get there, but Im also more anxious about failure this time around, Murphy said.

Murphy also said he has talked to the White House every single day about the negotiations, but said the Senate needed to do this ourselves.



President Biden last week pledged to meet with lawmakers about enacting gun legislation in response to recent mass shootings, but White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre indicated at a briefing later that day that Biden would keep some distance from the negotiations to allow them to play out.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Netflix just released the trailer for the upcoming Ben Crump documentary, Civil.

Civil is described as an intimate verite look at the life of maverick civil rights attorney Ben Crump and his mission to raise the value of Black life in America.

Heres an official description:

Considered a trailblazer of his field, CIVIL gives viewers an inside look at Crumps mission to raise the value of Black life. As the civil lawyer for the families of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Black farmers, and banking while Black victims, Crump challenges America to come to terms with what it owes his clients.

The film is directed and produced by Nadia Hallgren and produced by Kenya Barris.

In a previous statement, Crump said,

Crump stated, The intersection of the making of Civil during one of the most significant calls to action in history could never have been planned, but has culminated into an extraordinary film by Nadia Hallgren that leaves me both awed and humbled by what it has captured. Im honored to allow the world a firsthand account to witness the future of justice that can be achieved when we refuse to let our brothers and sisters be marginalized by the enemies of equality.

Check out the official trailer below:

The film screens soon at the Tribeca Festival and the American Black Film Festival. It will be released in select theaters on June 17 and globally on Netflix June 19.
Adolf Hitler raises his hand in the Nazi salute in 1932. Getty Images

The great-great-grandson of one of Adolf Hitler's doctors has released details of historic letters.

The letters show that the Nazi dictator was afraid of serious illness, Reuters reported.

A TV documentary has previously claimed that Hitler suffered from extreme health anxiety.

The Swiss descendent of one of Adolf Hitler's longtime doctors has released details of historic letters showing how the Nazi dictator was afraid of serious illness.

Robert Doepgen found letters written by his great-great-grandfather Dr Carl Otto von Eicken when he was researching his family history for a school project, according to Reuters.

The news agency reported that von Eicken, who died in 1960, was an ear, nose, and throat specialist who had treated Hitler several times between 1935 and 1945.

The letters, which were partially published in the Swiss newspaper NZZ am Sonntag, have had their authenticity confirmed by British historian Richard J Evans, Reuters said.

The documents offer a rare insight into Hitler's psyche and health anxiety.

"If there is something bad, I absolutely have to know," Hitler told the doctor after their first consultation in May 1935, according to the letters, per Reuters.

Previously, a television documentary claimed that Hitler suffered from extreme health anxiety. His mental health deteriorated greatly towards the end of the Second World War, according to notes from another physician, Theodor Morell, the documentary claimed.

The letters of von Eicken also suggest that Hitler had anxieties about his voice.

According to the documents, Hitler postponed an operation to remove a polyp until after a major speech. The letters said von Eicken had previously advised the Nazi dictator that he would need to rest his voice following the polyp procedure, Reuters reported.

Historians have previously noted that Hitler had a non-cancerous polyp removed from his throat.

Reuters reported that von Eiken, in his messages, had not once addressed the ethical dilemma of why he chose to treat a man who was responsible for the genocide of millions during the Holocaust.

Story continues

According to NZZ am Sonntag, he told Russian interrogators after the war why he had decided not to kill Hitler. "I was his doctor, not his murderer'," von Eiken said, per the newspaper.

Hitler died by suicide in a bunker in Berlin shortly before the war ended in 1945.

Read the original article on Insider
New Taipei City, Taiwan  Global K-pop icons BTS traveled to the White House on Tuesday to meet with President Joe Biden and speak to a packed briefing room of journalists about anti-Asian hate. On the last day of Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, the seven members of the boy band  RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V and Jungkook  took turns at the podium to voice their support for the AANHPI community, condemn anti-Asian hate and promote inclusivity.

While the many reporters present and more than 300,000 viewers streaming on YouTube were clearly excited about the groups presence and involvement with the campaign against anti-Asian violence, others, such as Fox News Tucker Carlson, were less than impressed. On his show, Carlson took a quick jab at the Biden administration for getting a Korean pop group to discuss anti-Asian hate crimes in the United States.

His comment may have been aimed at the president, but it caught the attention of the groups fandom  the BTS Army who quickly flooded social media to push back against Carlsons dismissive comment.

By raising an eyebrow at the involvement of BTS in a campaign against anti-Asian hate in the U.S., Carlson and like-minded critics gave themselves away as being ignorant of the groups history of speaking up about social issues and donating to social causes, even ones pertaining specifically to the U.S. There was no reason to question why BTS was at the White House.

Following last years Atlanta spa shootings that killed eight people, including six Asian women, BTS posted an impassioned statement in both Korean and English to its official Twitter account denouncing anti-Asian hate, violence and racial discrimination of any form. In the statement, the group members briefly mentioned their own experiences as victims of anti-Asian racism, making it clear that this was an issue particularly close to their hearts.

We recall moments when we faced discrimination as Asians, the statement said. We have endured expletives without reason and were mocked for the way we look. We were even asked why Asians spoke in English.

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The tweet became the most retweeted tweet of 2021, with approximately 1 million retweets and 2.5 million likes worldwide.

In 2020, the group made a $1 million donation to Black Lives Matter shortly after the death of George Floyd. Standing in solidarity with Black Lives Matter supporters, the group posted to its Twitter account using the hashtag #BlackLivesMatter.

There is no denying that by being from South Korea, BTS may not have had the same experiences as those in the AANHPI community who grew up in the U.S. had. But this does not mean that the band cannot understand what people who have experienced anti-Asian hate, or any racially motivated hate for that matter, have gone through and continue to go through, nor does it preclude the bands members from allying themselves with and lending support to such an important cause.

Unlike some of the groups peers in the K-pop industry, who are generally advised to stay mum about social issues, BTS is among the most prominent of K-pop artists who have spoken out about such issues. This, some have said, is in part a result of the groups large number of international fans who have urged the band to use its platform to shine light on these issues, but it is also because of BTS own experiences with racism.

This personal connection to the issue, coupled with its sense of responsibility and love for its fans around the world, seems to be what continues to motivate the group to speak out and act to effect social change. And it is what makes the band members the right spokespeople for the issue of anti-Asian hate  even in the U.S.

BTS has a massive global fan base with fans of different races and nationalities. So, when the K-pop superstars speak and address their BTS Army, as they did during their speech at the White House, they are speaking to Americans as well as to people from all over the world. Their message to promote Asian inclusion, diversity and representation is one that will give hope to their Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander fans and inspire non-AANHPI fans to join the movement against anti-Asian hate.

When it comes to changing social attitudes and culture, a good message is not enough. A message is only as strong as who delivers it, and how. As artists, the members of BTS have always genuinely addressed the issues young people go through and conveyed a message of hope in their music, which is one of the reasons their fans connect with the group so deeply. Personally, I got through a particularly rough bout of homesickness when I lived in Hong Kong by listening to the bands Map of the Soul: 7 album and watching its hilarious behind-the-scenes videos.

As BTS became more prominent globally, it partnered with UNICEF for the Love Myself campaign to end violence against children and teens so that they may lead safe lives. The band has also spoken at the United Nations General Assembly three times about a number of important world issues such as poverty, climate change and the Covid-19 pandemic. What the group has said and done has resonated with its fans, and the BTS Army has modeled many of its own projects after the groups philanthropic efforts and causes.

Anti-Asian hate is a global issue, exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic. It was only fitting that Biden, the leader of the free world, invited BTS  undeniably a global force to be reckoned with  to speak out about the issue and, it is hoped, make things better in every corner of the world.
Jun. 5Norman's state and federal lawmakers' responses to recent mass shootings in Oklahoma range from detailed plans for legislation to no response at all.

Oklahoma has reeled since Wednesday, when a disgruntled patient stormed into Saint Francis Hospital in Tulsa and killed his surgeon and three others before killing himself. It was four days after a man allegedly shot eight people in Taft, killing one during a fight at a Memorial Day festival.

They're two tragedies in a rash of mass shootings over the past month, most notably in Buffalo, New York and Uvalde, Texas.

In response to the shootings, Democrats in the Oklahoma House of Representatives on Thursday asked that the Stand Against Violence and Extremism [SAVE] Act be considered in the Legislature's 2022 special session. The bill would require the state to repeal its anti-red flag law, repeal its permitless carry law, repeal concealed carry in zoos and public parks, add a waiting period for gun purchases and raise the state buying age to 21 for all firearms.

At the federal level, President Joe Biden on Thursday called for stricter gun laws, including an assault weapons ban, more stringent background checks and red flag laws.

When asked if they had any plans to curb gun violence on a federal level, spokespeople for Norman's three U.S. congressmen, all Republicans, did not directly answer the question.

State Sen. Rob Standridge, R-Norman, did not immediately respond to a similar question about whether state Republicans have plans to curb gun violence in Oklahoma.

Following the state Democrats' news conference Thursday, state Rep. Justin Humphrey, R-Lane, said there's "no appetite" in the House's Republican supermajority to consider the SAVE Act. He argued the Democrats are trying to take away Oklahomans' rights and ability to defend themselves.

State representatives Emily Virgin, D-Norman, and Jacob Rosecrants, D-Norman, both said they support the SAVE Act and don't believe it's infringing on Oklahomans' rights and ability to defend themselves. Virgin spoke at the news conference Thursday.

Story continues

When asked if Democrats plan to do anything else to get the SAVE Act passed, Virgin said they'll circulate an amended Special Session call for legislators to sign so they can even consider the measures. They would need two-thirds of legislators to sign.

Prayers from Cole, Inhofe, Lankford

In a prepared statement, U.S. Rep. Tom Cole, R-Moore, said he is "deeply saddened" by the shooting in Tulsa.

"In the wake of this senseless violence, I am thankful for the swift and heroic response of law enforcement," he said. "I will continue to grieve for the victims and pray for all those affected."

U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe's spokesperson referred The Transcript to a similar statement from the Senator on Twitter. He said he prays for the victims' families and loved ones, that he's thankful for law enforcement's response and that "tragedy is in the loss of life."

In a tweet referred to by Lankford's spokesperson, the senator said he and his wife were "heartbroken" when they heard about the shooting in Tulsa, and that they were praying.

"It is hard to process the anger that motivates someone to commit such violence, especially at a place that provides care and healing," a thread of Lankford's tweets reads. He later added that he was grateful.

Along with the lack of response about congressional action to curb gun violence, none of the spokespeople directly responded when asked for Cole, Inhofe and Lankford's opinions about Oklahoma's permitless carry and anti-red flag laws.

Past, present response from State Legislature

While Standridge didn't respond to questions after the shooting in Tulsa, he has spoken in the past about one of the laws the SAVE Act aims to repeal.

Cities in states with permitless carry or similar laws have seen large spikes in reports of guns stolen from cars once the laws go into effect. Norman has seen a 70% increase in the reported crime in the two years after Oklahoma's permitless carry law went into effect when compared to the previous two.

Standridge, who voted for permitless carry in 2019, told The Transcript in February that he attributed the spike to a rise in crime in Norman, the prevalence of homeless in the city or police officer positions removed from the force. Norman police spokesperson Sarah Jensen called stealing guns from cars "a crime of opportunity" and said NPD had recently seen more people leave their guns in plain sight and in their unlocked cars.

Jensen said Friday that NPD "will provide response" to questions from The Transcript about permitless carry and mass shootings once they are able.

"It's beyond frustrating that [Republicans] offer no solutions except to advocate for even more guns," Virgin said.

Rosecrants said nobody wants to take away anyone's right to protect themselves with the SAVE Act. Rather, he said, the bill would restore regulations he believes would save lives.

Sen. Mary Boren, D-Norman, said she and other Democrats "would like to understand why Republicans need to defend themselves with assault rifles against school children, grocery shoppers, worshippers and doctors."

Rep. Merleyn Bell, D-Norman, did not immediately respond to questions about the SAVE Act and the recent shootings.
A pile of $1000 bills. Getty Images

A North Carolina man won a $100,000 lottery prize in April.

He decided to wait for two months before telling his wife to "surprise" her.

"She thought I was making a joke or something," Jone Buadromo told lottery officials.

A North Carolina man kept his lottery win a secret from his wife for nearly two months to "surprise her on her birthday," officials said.

Jone Buadromo bought his $3 Power Play ticket at a convenience store in Alliance, North Carolina in April, according to a news release from the NC Education Lottery.

Video: The one thing most self-made millionaires do when they wake up

Buadromo's ticket "matched numbers on four white balls and the Powerball in the April 11 drawing to win $50,000. His prize doubled to $100,000 when the 2X multiplier hit," according to the news release. He said that he could not "believe" that he won.

NC Education Lottery (@nclottery) June 3, 2022

The 72-year-old claimed his prize earlier this week, on Thursday, according to the news release. He told lottery officials that he didn't tell his wife about the prize until late May.

"She thought I was making a joke or something," Buadromo said, per the news release. "I told her, 'No we really won."

The winner said that he may potentially spend the money on purchasing land at a beach and building a rental property, the news release said.

Last month, another North Carolina man won more than $400,000 after using his family members' ages as his lottery numbers.

Read the original article on Insider
Margaret Whitt is a retired English professor who taught at the University of Denver for 27 years.

Robb Elementary in Uvalde, Texas, changed forever on Tuesday, May 24, 2022. The worst school shooting in a decade: 19 children and two teachers. No doubt, Sandy Hook in Newtown, Connecticut, revisited its own nightmares from 2012. Just as Sixteenth Street Baptist Church in Birmingham revisited its worst day  September 15, 1963, when 52 years later Mother Emanuel in Charleston, South Carolina, saw nine victims shot down in 2015. The list doesnt stop here, of course, one school shooting evokes another. One school shooting in April 1999 at Columbine sends its survivors another revisiting when Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, erupted in 2018. One mass shooting in a grocery store in Buffalo in 2022 forces a re-visiting in another night of mayhem in a night club in Orlando in 2016. And supporters of the victims of this same Pulse Nightclub in Orlando held a vigil for Uvalde within a few days after that tragic incident.

There is a kindred spirit across our country as those who survive a mass shooting understand innately the experience. In fact, perhaps those who have gone through it are the only ones who know that heart-beating-out-of-your-chest anxiety as you rush to the place where the shooting occurred to claim your children, your friends, your relatives. It ceases to matter if the shooting is at a school, a church, a grocery store, a nightclub, a movie theater, a concert. In each location of a mass shooting in our modern history, people entered a facility fully expecting to come out alive. Fully expecting to be safe. Especially is this true in places of worship and hallmarks of education. The first shooting in any place, though, launches the fear that that place is not necessarily safe. We have come to see, sadly, that no place is safe.

But a mass shooting in an elementary school defies credibility. Here are Americas most vulnerable. So how might Uvalde and Robb Elementary affect any elementary school in the country? My daughter teaches first grade in the Portland, Oregon, public school system. Her classroom is in the annex of the school building and the room itself has one door -- leading to a hall inside the building and then another door in the hallway leads outside, which the children use to go outside for recess. The day after the tragedy at Robb Elementary, one of my daughters students held the outside door open longer than necessary as the students headed outside for recess. My daughter had to caution her not to do that  because someone we dont know may want to come inside our building.

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For months now, the class had been excited about going on a field trip to a local roller skating rink. Some administrative mishap ended in chartered buses having to be substituted for school buses. As the kids boarded, you could hear: Ive never seen such a fancy bus. All the pictures of the students were taken on the bus  faces full of smiles. When I asked to see pictures of them skating there were none because she was busy holding hands the whole time. I would imagine, tightly. Her hand in the hand of the young first-grader was literally to keep them from falling. But I would imagine, as well, that the hand-holding had a metaphorical meaning: I hold your hand tightly because you are a trusted adult in my life and you will not let me fall. You will keep me safe here at school. The whole of the event wound up being great fun  and for the day  innocence restored.

Teachers all over the country who have not experienced an intruder with a loaded weapon are for the most part underpaid, yet asked to teach those essential skills that will make their students successful in their next grade. They are expected to know exactly what to say to a child when their grandparents home burns down and their dog dies and they come to school smelling of smoke, when they must take a computer home where there is no Wi-Fi, when one attacks another with a pair of scissors. This may happen on any given day  part of the routine. So how much or how little  what do they already know  do you say to first-graders about what happened at Robb?

Thank goodness for a day of roller skating and going to the rink on a fancy bus. Sometimes, salvation can be just this easy. And thank goodness for teachers who care.

Margaret Whitt is a retired English professor who taught at the University of Denver for 27 years.

This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Opinion: What do you say to 1st-graders about what happened at Uvalde?
(Bloomberg) -- Leftist candidate Gustavo Petro retook the lead in Colombias presidential election race, according to a Centro Nacional de Consultoria poll published by Semana magazine.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Petro had 44.9% support compared to 41% for construction magnate Rodolfo Hernandez, the survey found. The poll of 2,172 people was conducted between May 31 and June 2 and has a margin of error of 2.1%

A previous CNC poll published May 31 also showed a technical tie, but with Hernandez leading by two percentage points. Petro had been the favorite to become Colombias next president, but Hernandezs unexpected surge to second place in the May 29 first round upset those calculations as other candidates offered him their endorsements.

Petro is nervous, scared, totally disappointed, Hernandez told Semana magazine in an interview published Saturday. Im breathing down his neck.

Colombians vote in the presidential runoff on June 19. Petro wants to tax the wealthy and halt oil exploration, while Hernandez is campaigning on a pledge to cut government waste and corruption.

(Adds context on third paragraph, Hernandez comments on fourth paragraph)

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Watch: Queen thrills crowds with appearance on Buckingham Palace balcony at the end of Jubilee weekend

The Queen thrilled crowds gathered on The Mall for her Platinum Jubilee by making an appearance on the Buckingham Palace balcony at the culmination of celebrations.

The monarch joined other senior members of the Royal Family for an appearance on the balcony on Sunday evening as the national anthem was sung to her.

During the short appearance, which lasted less than three minutes, The Queen joined Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, along with the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and their family.

The surprise appearance came at the culmination of four days of celebration of The Queen's 70 years on the throne and concluded the Platinum Jubilee pageant, which saw more than 10,000 performers take part in four different acts, each helping tell the story of her historic reign.

The Queen wore green as she appeared alongside other senior royals on the Buckingham Palace balcony. (PA)

During her appearance on the balcony, thousands of people gathered on The Mall sang the National Anthem.

Among those were Paula and Patrick Queenan, from Radlett in Hertfordshire, who said the Queen and the royal family coming out on to the balcony was the best part of the jubilee celebrations.

Paula Queenan, 57, said: "Seeing the Queen come out on the balcony was amazing.

"We didnt know if shed come or not. This was the first day that Ive been here and this was the real highlight."

The Queen's appearance thrilled thousands of people gathered on The Mall. (PA)

Patrick Queenan, 58, added: "I came for the fly past on Thursday and the atmosphere was fantastic.

"Our daughter and her fiance came down from Sheffield today. Theyre both doctors and so theyre going to head back now and theyre on duty tonight.

"We had a street party on Friday, the whole street came to ours and sang the national anthem. Seeing the Queen has been the best bit of this week."

Anne Newing, 82, from Sevenoaks in Kent, was back in London for the Platinum Jubilee after visiting the capital for the Queen's coronation when she was 11.

The 82-year-old, who was in London with her daughter Susan Newing, 59, said it was "amazing" to see the monarch again on her Platinum Jubilee.

"I came to the coronation when I was 11 and Im now 82, it was just incredible, just lovely," she said.
Mount Dora police are warning residents about people shooting strangers with airsoft guns.

WATCH: Drivers reminded to focus on safety after recent deadly crashes around Central Florida

Officers responded to Eudora Road on Saturday after men in a burgundy sedan shot a man with the plastic BBs.

The man was hit in the face but wasnt seriously hurt.

Police said men in a blue Honda CRV shot at two groups of people Friday while they were walking downtown.

WATCH: Frenzy over, but still no bargains: what a slowing housing market means for Central Florida

No one has been arrested just yet.

Anyone with information about the shootings is asked to call the Mount Dora Police Department at 352-735-7130.

READ: Florida Jane Doe IDed after nearly 48 years may be victim of serial killer cop Gerard Schaefer

Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, and click here to watch the latest news on your Smart TV.
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (AP)  A shooting near a Tennessee nightclub early Sunday led to three deaths and 14 people suffering gunshot wounds and other injuries, police said.

Fourteen people were hit by gunfire and three were hit by vehicles while trying to flee the scene, according to Chattanooga Police Chief Celeste Murphy. Two people died from gunshot wounds and one person died after being hit by a vehicle. Sixteen of the victims were adults and one was a juvenile and several remained in critical condition, she said.

Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly, who described himself as an avid hunter and gun owner, called on Congress to enact common sense regulations to address gun violence. Kelly is an independent.

That doesnt mean taking guns away from responsible gun owners, but it does mean mandatory background checks and prohibiting high-capacity magazines that allow shooters to hurt dozens of people without even having to reload, he said at a press conference. Kelly said his administration would announce new steps in the coming weeks aimed at reducing gun violence locally.

Video: Multiple people shot in downtown Chattanooga

Officers responded to a report of a shooting at 2:42 a.m. on McCallie Avenue near a nightclub and found multiple victims upon arrival. Murphy said officers immediately began rendering aid and securing the scene.

There were multiple shooters and Murphy asked anyone in the community with information about the shooting to come forward. She said police believe it was an isolated incident and authorities don't believe there's an ongoing public safety threat.

Murphy said it would be a complex investigation going forward.

We're trying to determine exactly what happened and what led up to this taking place, she said.

The shooting comes the weekend after six juveniles were wounded during an exchange of gunfire in a downtown Chattanooga business district.

Its going to be a long summer, and we have got to get out in front of it and put a stop to it, Kelly said.

___

AP writer Rebecca Reynolds contributed from Simpsonville, Ky.
 Flash

Colombian rescue teams on Saturday continued to search for eight missing miners in a coal mine where an explosion occurred on Monday, killing at least seven.

Almost 90 percent of the interior of La Mestiza coal mine, located in northern Colombia, had been destroyed and rescue operations have been going on for more than 120 hours, said Jhon Olivares, secretary of sustainable energy mining management of Norte de Santander, a department in northeast Colombia.

"There was a very strong explosion due to the accumulation of methane inside the mine," Olivares told local media. "There are a number of gases such as monoxide that make tasks difficult."

The miners are trapped 300 meters underground, according to rescue authorities.

One miner found at the entrance to the mine was rescued alive but died of serious injury on Tuesday in a medical center in Cucuta, the capital city of Norte de Santander.
Russian President Vladimir Putin warned Western countries about providing additional weapons to Ukraine, claiming it would only prolong the military conflict.

Talking about the US plans to supply multiple launch rocket systems to Kyiv, the Russian leader said that these supplies are unlikely to significantly strengthen the Ukrainian army, as they had had rockets of this range in the past.

"In general, all this fuss around additional deliveries of weapons, in my opinion, has only one goal - to drag out the armed conflict as much as possible", he concluded in his interview recorded in Sochi.
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Queen Elizabeth II still knows how to have fun, and she proved it Saturday night with a special skit in honor of her Jubilee Concert Party at the Palace.

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Pairing up with the beloved childrens character Paddington the bear, Her Majesty filmed the video skit ahead of the celebratory night. Sitting down at a table with the childrens book character, she was shown drinking tea and sharing the bears favorite marmalade sandwiches. In conversation, Paddington praised Elizabeth for all she had done for the country, congratulating her on her Jubilee.

For tea, the Queen wore a yellow and blue floral dress with a modest neckline, long sleeves and a comfortable fit. The royal made the most of her collection of important antique jewelry, accessorizing the dress with stacked pearls, a sparkling diamond broach, and simple pearl earrings. The Queen also carried a black leather bag with a gold clutch where she kept her marmalade sandwich for later.

Queen Elizabeth II has always favored a modest but refined style of dress, opting for classic silhouettes but choosing bright colors to make her sartorial statement. Whether its her own Jubilee or a royal affair, the royal knowns what works for her and often chooses one singular color for her entire ensemble, matching her hat to her shoes and gloves and everything in between. While the Queen seems to prefer a comfortable flat, she has on special occasions opted for a sensible heel.

The royals floral dress in the video proves that the 96-year-old monarch still knows how to take a fashion risk and look elegant while doing it.

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The video ends with the pair being called to the concert with the sound of cheering fans.

The Queens Platinum Jubilee celebrates Queen Elizabeth IIs unprecedented 70-year reign over the United Kingdom and associated Commonwealths. The Queen is the first British Monarch to achieve a Platinum Jubilee following seven decades of service to the throne, longer than any other British royal in history. The Platinum Jubilee, which runs from June 2 to June 5, is a four-day bank holiday that will include celebrations all over the U.K., including parades, performances, and other public gatherings.

Launch Gallery: Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee Party at the Palace Concert Performers & More

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(AP)

The Queen was flanked by the three heirs to the throne as she made her final appearance during the platinum jubilee.

Making a surprise appearance on the Buckingham Palace balcony following the platinum pageant, Her Majesty stood between Prince Charles, Prince William, and Prince George, who are first, second and third in line to the throne respectively.

The Queen saw a much smaller group of family members join her on the balcony on Sunday, compared with the Trooping the Colour parade on Thursday.

Sunday saw the Queen joined by just Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall, along with William, the Duchess of Cambridge, and their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.

In a sweet moment between George and the monarch, the Prince gave his great-grandmother an adoring look and she looked out to the crowd stretching along The Mall.

(AP)

It was only the third appearance by the Queen across the platinum jubilee weekend, after she pulled out of the Service of Thanksgiving on Friday and the Epsom Derby on Saturday.

Social media users said the moment the Queen appeared with her three heirs made them emotional, with one user writing: When the Queen came onto the balcony with her three heirs and the crowd erupted so emotional. Well never see this again in our lifetime, if ever.

When the Queen came onto the balcony with her 3 heirs and the crowd erupted so emotional. Well never see this again in our lifetime, if ever.  #HM70 #PlatinumJubilee #PlatinumJubileePageant pic.twitter.com/DHOxTxTTgE  Andy (@Andy54043596) June 5, 2022

Another added: So special to see the direct heirs and reigning monarch on the balcony to mark the end of an amazing #PlatinumJubilee.

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Love how Prince George is looking at the Queen



So special to see the direct heirs and reigning monarch on the balcony to mark the end of an amazing #PlatinumJubilee pic.twitter.com/peIIw2GgiU  Belle (@RoyallyBelle_) June 5, 2022

A third said: The most wonderful sight today. HM The Queen with her heirs and successors. I have tears of immense pride and joy running down my face.

On Thursday, following the Trooping the Colour parade, the Queen made two separate balcony appearances. One to observed the salute, and the other to watch the RAF flypast.
Maja Hitij/Getty Images

Recruiters at major companies offer to hire Tesla employees who want to keep working remotely.

On Tuesday, Elon Musk told Tesla employees they must return to the office or resign, reports say.

Remote working opportunities have become a key benefit amid the great resignation.

Tesla workers might not have to return to the office after all  if they're willing to jump ship.

On Thursday, tech recruiters put out calls to Elon Musk's employees who might be looking to dodge his return-to-work edict.

On Thursday, Zafar Choudhury, who identifies himself as a technical recruiting leader at Amazon Web Services on LinkedIn, issued a call for disgruntled Tesla engineers to join the tech giant.

"If the Emperor of Mars doesn't want you, I'll be happy to bring you over to #AWS," Choudhury wrote on LinkedIn, referencing Musk's fixation with colonizing Mars.

Choudhury didn't respond to a request for comment from Insider. Spokespeople for Tesla and Amazon also didn't respond to requests for comment.

The recruiter took aim at reports that Musk sent emails to executive staff on Tuesday, calling for the workers to stop "phoning it in" and come into the office at least 40 hours a week.

"If you don't like to be micromanaged by the Elon Musk's of the world, come to #AWSIdentity!" Choudhury wrote. "We'll find you a happy home here that respects you, your time and your profession. We will find you a team that treats you with dignity."

Last year, Amazon announced that it would let corporate employees work from home indefinitely. It has been one of several tech companies to make the shift from an office-centric work environment to a more distributed workforce.

Choudhury was one of several recruiters on LinkedIn who pushed for Tesla employees to join Amazon, as well as smaller tech companies, such as Insight and Bestow. A Microsoft recruiter also joined in on the hiring frenzy, The Next Web reported.

In a post that has since been deleted, Tiana Watts-Porter, who identifies herself as a technical recruiter for Microsoft, told Tesla employees they would be given more freedom at Microsoft. Watts-Porter did not respond to a request for comment from Insider.

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The tech company has embraced a hybrid work environment. Last month, Microsoft announced that workers would be allowed to work remotely over 50% of the time so long as it was approved by their managers.

"You can do things your way, and be yourself here at Microsoft!" Watts-Porter wrote, The Next Web reported.

In his companywide email, Musk took a dig at companies such as Amazon that have allowed employees to work from home, Electrek reported.

"There are of course companies that don't require this, but when was the last time they shipped a great new product?" Musk said in a companywide email, the report said. "It's been a while."

The billionaire appeared to justify his decision to bring workers back to the office on Twitter, saying his ultimatum was part of an effort to promote equality between factory workers  who have been required to come to work in person throughout the pandemic  and executives.

Musk's stance on remote work could inhibit Tesla's and SpaceX's recruiting efforts. Remote working opportunities have become a key benefit amid the Great Resignation.

In March, a survey of 3,019 employees conducted by Blind, an anonymous employee community app, found that 64% of workers at employers such as Amazon, Microsoft, and Google would rather work from home than receive a $30,000 raise.

"Companies simply cannot force people back to the office, especially when there are other remote jobs available elsewhere," Kyum Kim, Blind's cofounder, previously told Insider's Caroline Hronich and Ebony Flake.

Work at Tesla or have a Tesla-related story to share? You can reach this reporter by contacting gkay@insider.com from a nonwork email.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Rocket of the occupiers (illustrative photo)

Read also: Ukraine destroys 9 Russian air targets in one day, including Ka-52 helicopter, Su-34 warplane

"As of now, there is no information about the destruction (from the missile strike) in the Brovary community," he said.

Read also: Russias war on global food security

"We urge everyone to remain calm and stay in safe places."

Early on June 5, Russia launched missiles at the Ukrainian capital city of Kyiv. Missile impact blasts occurred in the city's Darnytskyi and Dniprovskyi districts, on the left bank of the Dnipro river.

One person has been hospitalized as a result of the Russian missile attack on Kyiv, city authorities later said.

Read also: Russian strategic bomber hits Mykolayiv Oblast with four cruise missiles
KYIV, Ukraine (AP)  Russia took aim Sunday at Western military supplies for Ukraine, launching airstrikes on Kyiv that it claimed destroyed tanks donated from abroad, as Vladimir Putin warned that any Western deliveries of longer-range rocket systems would prompt Moscow to hit objects that we haven't yet struck.

The Russian leader's cryptic threat of military escalation did not specify what the new targets might be. It came days after the United States announced plans to deliver $700 million of security assistance for Ukraine that includes four precision-guided, medium-range rocket systems, as well as helicopters, Javelin anti-tank systems, radars, tactical vehicles and more.

Military analysts say Russia hopes to overrun Ukraine's embattled eastern industrial Donbas region, where Russia-backed separatists have fought the Ukrainian government since 2014, before the arrival of any U.S. weapons that might turn the tide. The Pentagon said last week that it will take at least three weeks to get the U.S. weapons onto the battlefield.

Ukraine said the missiles aimed at the capital hit a train repair shop. Elsewhere, Russian airstrikes in the eastern city of Druzhkivka destroyed buildings and left at least one person dead, a Ukrainian official said. Residents described waking to the sound of missile strikes, with rubble and glass falling down around them.

It was like in a horror movie, Svitlana Romashkina said.

The Russian Defense Ministry said air-launched precision missiles were used to destroy workshops in the Donetsk region of eastern Ukraine, including in Druzhkivka, that were repairing damaged Ukrainian military equipment.

Meanwhile, Ukraines General Staff said Russian forces fired five X-22 cruise missiles from the Caspian Sea toward Kyiv, and one was destroyed by air defenses. Four other missiles hit infrastructure facilities, but Ukraine said there were no casualties.

Nuclear plant operator Energoatom said one cruise missile buzzed close to the Pivdennoukrainsk nuclear plant, 350 kilometers (220 miles) to the south, seemingly on its way to Kyiv. It warned of the possibility of a nuclear catastrophe if even one missile fragment had hit the facility.

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The missiles that struck Kyiv destroyed T-72 tanks supplied by Eastern European countries and other armored vehicles, the Russian Defense Ministry said on the Telegram app.

Ukraines railway authority subsequently led reporters on a guided tour of a rail car repair plant in eastern Kyiv that it said was hit by four missiles. The authority said no military equipment had been stored there, and Associated Press reporters saw no remnants of any in the facility's destroyed building.

There were no tanks, and you can just be witness to this. said Serhiy Leshchenko, an adviser to the Ukrainian presidents office.

However, a government adviser said on national TV that military infrastructure also was targeted. AP reporters saw a building burning in an area near the destroyed rail car plant. Two residents of that district said the warehouse-type structure that billowed smoke was part of a tank-repair facility. Police blocking access to the site told an AP reporter that military authorities had banned the taking of images there.

In a television interview that aired Sunday, Putin lashed out at Western deliveries of weapons to Ukraine, saying they aim to prolong the war.

All this fuss around additional deliveries of weapons, in my opinion, has only one goal: to drag out the armed conflict as much as possible, Putin said. He insisted such supplies were unlikely to change the military situation for Ukraine's government, which he said was merely making up for losses of similar rockets.

If Kyiv gets longer-range rockets, he added, Moscow will draw appropriate conclusions and use our means of destruction, which we have plenty of, in order to strike at those objects that we haven't yet struck.

The U.S. has stopped short of offering Ukraine longer-range weapons that could fire deep into Russia. But the four medium-range High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems in the security package include launchers on wheels that allow troops to strike a target and then quickly move away  which could be useful against Russian artillery on the battlefield.

Moscow also accused the West on Sunday of closing off lines of communication by forcing Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's plane to cancel a trip to Serbia for talks Monday.

Serbia's neighbors closed their airspace to Lavrov's plane, ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told Italian television in comments reported by Russian news agencies. Earlier in the day, Serbian newspaper Vecernje Novosti had said that Bulgaria, North Macedonia and Montenegro would not allow Lavrovs plane to come through.

This is another closed channel of communication, Zakharova said.

The Spanish daily El Pais reported Sunday that Spain planned to supply anti-aircraft missiles and up to 40 Leopard 2 A4 battle tanks to Ukraine. Spains Ministry of Defense did not comment on the report.

Before Sunday's early morning attack, Kyiv had not faced any such Russian airstrikes since the April 28 visit of U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. The attack triggered air-raid alarms and showed that Russia still had the capability and willingness to hit at Ukraines heart, despite refocusing its efforts to capture Ukrainian territory in the east.

In recent days, Russian forces have focused on capturing Ukraine's eastern cities of Sievierodonetsk and Lysychansk. On Sunday they continued their push, with missile and airstrikes on cities and villages in the Donbas.

In the cities of Sloviansk and Bakhmut, cars and military vehicles were seen speeding into town from the direction of the front line. Dozens of military doctors and paramedic ambulances worked to evacuate civilians and Ukrainian servicemen, and a hospital was busy treating the injured, many hurt by artillery shelling.

The U.K. military said in its daily intelligence update that Ukrainian counterattacks in Sieverodonetsk were likely blunting the operational momentum Russian forces previously gained through concentrating combat units and firepower. Russian forces previously had been making a string of advances in the city, but Ukrainian fighters have pushed back in recent days.

The statement also said Russias military was partly relying on reserve forces of Luhansk separatists.

These troops are poorly equipped and trained, and lack heavy equipment in comparison to regular Russian units, the intelligence update said, adding that the move "indicates a desire to limit casualties suffered by regular Russian forces.

Both sides in the conflict have been waging an information war, especially on television, along with military attacks. Russias Tass news agency reported Sunday that Ukrainian forces had knocked out broadcast TV service in Donetsk, where it said a broadcast tower had toppled. Ukrainian authorities did not immediately confirm the attack.

In the Azov Sea port of Mariupol, which Russia claimed to have captured in May following a brutal monthslong siege, a mayoral aide said water supplies contaminated by decomposing corpses and garbage were causing dysentery and posing a threat of cholera and other diseases.

In remarks carried by Ukraines Unian news agency, Petro Andriushchenko said Russian authorities controlling the city have imposed a quarantine. He did not describe what measures Russian authorities had included, and his report could not be independently confirmed.

World Health Organization officials warned last month about the threat of cholera and other infectious diseases in Mariupol.

Also Sunday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy traveled to the Zaporizhzhia region in the southeast, which is partly under Russian control. He received a battle report, thanked troops and met with refugees in what was only his second public visit outside the Kyiv area since the war began.

Far from the battlefield, Ukraine's national soccer players missed out on qualifying for a World Cup spot, losing 1-0 to Wales in an emotionally charged match in Cardiff. Back home, some Ukrainians gathered in bars to watch the game.

___

Associated Press journalists David Keyton and Hanna Arhirova in Kyiv contributed to this report.

___

Follow AP's coverage of the Ukraine war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine
NY Daily News

A condiment-obsessed Queens murder suspect hoarded sweet-and-sour duck sauce in his refrigerator  but not enough to stop him from killing a Chinese food delivery worker in a feud over his wish for more, a police source said Tuesday. When cops opened accused killer Glenn Hirschs refrigerator, they found it full of items to flavor up his food  including lots of duck sauce of the kind given ...
The Savannah Morning News received a number of honors from the Georgia Press Association for its local news coverage in 2021. Among them, growth and development reporter Zoe Nicholson was named the top Emerging Journalist at the GPA's annual Better Newspapers Contest ceremony on Friday at the Jekyll Island Club.

Nicholson joined the Savannah Morning News in July 2021 and amassed a body of work around affordable housing, homelessness, gentrification and Black land loss, which has raised awareness of and led to increased funding to address Savannah's growing affordable housing crisis.

Growth and development reporter Zoe Nicholson received the Emerging Journalist Award/Daily Division, by the Georgia Press Association at the 2022 Better Newspaper Contest, held at the Jekyll Island Club, June 3, 2022.

Sample of Nicholson's reporting:

Among the Morning News' other awards:

First Place, Best Online News Product

Zoe Nicholson and Richard Burkhart for the three-part series about sea level rise and development threats to historic Gullah Geechee lands on Sapelo Island

First Place, Best Use of Multimedia Journalism

Richard Burkhart for his video about Gene and Susan Marsh, an ovarian cancer patient, who have been pushed to the brink of bankruptcy because of health care costs.

First Place, Best Website Photo Gallery

Richard Burkhart for his photographic coverage of the state trial of the three men convicted of murdering Ahmaud Arbery in Brunswick

First and Second Place, Photo Essay

Freelance contributor Adriana Boatwright for Night at the Museum and Juneteenth photo essays

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Second Place, Community Service

Zoe Nicholson and Katie Nussbaum for their series of articles examining the various influences affecting rising rental and housing costs

Second Place, Enterprise Story

Raisa Habersham for her feature on the impact of Ahmaud Arbery's murder one year later

Second Place, Serious Column

Freelance contributor Maxine Bryant for her columns on preserving Gullah Geechee Culture

Third Place, Serious Column

Freelance contributor Mark Murphy for his regular weekly columns

Third Place, News Photograph

Richard Burkhart

Amy Paige Condon is a content coach for Savannah Morning News. You can reach her at ACondon@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Savannah Morning News: Savannah Morning News wins Georgia Press Association awards
House Minority Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.) on Sunday blamed Democrats for a rise in gun violence across the U.S., blaming the defund the police movement and local authorities for being lax on criminals.

In an interview with Fox News Sunday guest host John Roberts, Scalise said the reason gun violence and crime rates are so high in the U.S. compared to other countries is because of the defund the police movement and loose policies from city district attorneys, who he claimed release prisoners early or hand down lighter sentences to violent criminals.

You look at America in the last couple of years, youre seeing this crazy defund the police movement. But youve also seen a movement thats been going on for a few years in big cities where the [district attorneys] arent even prosecuting criminals until it is a shooting, he said.

Theyre letting criminals back out on the streets and inevitably what you see is higher rates of crime, Scalise continued. And what youre also seeing is more and more American citizens, law abiding citizens, buying guns to defend themselves.

Scalise joins a number of Republicans pushing back against gun control measures to curb a rising number of mass shootings and gun violence across the country. A group of bipartisan senators have been meeting to determine if they can come to any agreement on a gun-related measure following the killing of 19 children and two adults at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, last month.

The Louisiana Republican told Roberts on Sunday he does not support red flag laws despite a majority of Americans expressing support for measures that take guns away from individuals a court deems a threat.

Scalise repeated a GOP talking point that Congress should address mental health and other societal factors that cause mass shootings. He said everyday gun violence on the streets, which are less high profile but take far more lives than mass shootings, are rising because Democrats are lax on the out of control crime.

Look at the smash-and-grab crimes. Do you think its going to end there? he told Roberts on Sunday. If they think they can get away with a crime, theyre not going to be charged, they will go on to commit other crimes. Its happened in other places. Lets get back to regular policing.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
For decades, Democrat Richard Blumenthal has ranked among Connecticuts best-known and most popular politicians.

Whether battling rising utility rates or high prescription drug prices, Blumenthal is a fixture on the television news  standing at the podium or right behind it as he appears repeatedly on screen with consumers and advocates.

But this year is different. Blumenthals popularity has dropped among an uneasy electorate as President Joe Biden, a fellow Democrat, suffers from sluggish poll ratings in both Connecticut and nationwide.

A recent Quinnipiac University poll showed Blumenthal with his lowest approval rating since being elected to the U.S. Senate nearly 12 years ago. The latest survey showed 45% of registered voters approve of his job performance, while 43% disapprove. Among the all-important independent voters, Blumenthals numbers were under water with 41% approving and 44% disapproving.

A longtime student of politics, Blumenthal, 76, has been winning statewide elections for the past three decades and watching polls even longer.

But he declined to talk in detail when questioned about his low approval ratings.

Polls rise and fall, Blumenthal said when asked by The Courant. My focus is on fighting for the people of Connecticut and working as hard as I can on measures that help them.

Asked again about the polls, he responded, Thats really all Im going to say.

Blumenthals sagging ratings come during a highly contentious election year when Republicans say they have the wind at their backs in the mid-term elections  when the party out of power traditionally picks up seats in Congress and state legislatures.

Blumenthal is facing three Republicans who are battling in an Aug. 9 primary for the right to compete in Novembers election. Former House Republican leader Themis Klarides of Madison won 59% of the convention delegates at the recent party convention, while Greenwich fundraiser Leora Levy and Fairfield immigration attorney Peter Lumaj won about 20% each.

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A poll by Emerson College for News 8 showed Blumenthal 10 points ahead of Klarides and 16 points ahead of Levy and Lumaj with a margin of error of 2.4 percentage points.

After decades in public life, Klarides says, some Connecticut voters have grown tired of Blumenthal.

I just think that some people eventually wear out their welcome before they realize its been worn out, Klarides said in an interview. The bloom has been coming off that flower for several years now. I dont think it was an overnight issue. ... Dick Blumenthal has become a caricature of himself. Hes known as the person who gets in front of the camera and jumps to every event. But people want action from their elected officials.

Voters, she said, are facing a wide variety of problems that have still not been resolved, including the highest inflation rate in 40 years, rising gasoline prices, controlling the borders, cutting off the supply of deadly fentanyl and taking control away from parents.

Dick Blumenthal is the Joe Biden of Connecticut, effectively, Klarides said. He votes with him almost 100% of the time, and its those policies that have led us to all these problems, and thats where Im different. ... Joe Biden is digging his heels in, and Dick Blumenthal is standing right there next to him as his wingman, saying, I agree with what youre doing.

For decades, highly popular politicians have eventually lost elections after long careers. Those include New York Gov. Mario Cuomo and New York City mayor Ed Koch, who dominated politics in their heyday before losing to lesser-known opponents. Lowell Weicker Jr. won multiple elections in Connecticut before losing in the 1988 U.S. Senate race to up-and-coming Democrat Joe Lieberman.

Political observers across the country were stunned when U.S. Senate Democratic leader Tom Daschle lost his seat in 2004 after three terms to now-Sen. John Thune in a major upset. In New York City, longtime U.S. Rep. Joe Crowley was defeated by an upstart Democrat named Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who has since become a national figure.

The combination is hes been in too long, and people are really sick of him, Klarides said of Blumenthal. And the fact is that the economy and peoples lives are not better  theyre worse. And when you put those two things together, that oftentimes turns into a perfect storm with the right opponent.

But state Democratic chairwoman Nancy DiNardo said that many other Republican candidates thought they could defeat Blumenthal in the past and have not been successful.

Because of the war in Ukraine, people are really concerned about inflation and the economy, and of course, in a poll, they think of it as the incumbents who are doing that, DiNardo said in an interview. Sen. Blumenthal has had a long history of serving voters, and he has always addressed the issues that people care about  the economy, gun control, abortion. Hes accessible to the residents.

While the candidate with the most money does not always win, fundraising is a crucial factor in politics. In the current race, Blumenthal holds a wide lead with $8.2 million in cash on hand as of the most recent public filing period in mid-April. Levy and Lumaj both had about $450,000 on hand, while Klarides had $392,000 after they all spent money on their pre-convention efforts. Simsbury landscaper Robert Hyde, a strong supporter of former President Donald Trump, is attempting to collect more than 9,000 signatures by June 7 in an effort to qualify for the primary ballot.

History on his side in blue state

Historically, Blumenthal has been an electoral and fundraising powerhouse in Connecticut politics for decades, often winning easily.

Some races were blowouts, including a victory by 50 percentage points for reelection as state attorney general in 2006 over Robert Farr, a West Hartford Republican who was well-known at the time in the state legislature.

In his most recent Senate race in 2016, he defeated Republican Dan Carter by 28 percentage points. In the toughest battle of his career, Blumenthal defeated professional wrestling executive Linda McMahon by 10 percentage points in 2010 after she spent $50 million in an attempt to capture the seat  making some Democrats say that if McMahon and her money could not beat Blumenthal, then no one could.

Since breaking into the statewide spotlight in 1977 after being nominated by President Jimmy Carter as the U.S. Attorney for Connecticut, Blumenthal has been a constant presence in political life for decades. He won elections in both the state House and Senate in the 1980s, then served 20 years as state attorney general before reaching the U.S. Senate.

A household name in the state, Blumenthal has appeared on television screens over the past 30 years even more often than governors, who generally hold statewide office for much shorter periods. No other Connecticut candidate has won as many statewide races since 1990 as Blumenthal.

But state Republican chairman Ben Proto agrees with other Republicans that Blumenthal has been in office long enough.

There comes a time when its time to leave or youre removed from the stage, Proto said in an interview. Its time for Dick to leave the political stage. The polls show hes lost whatever popularity he had. Dick has always been a liberal, but hes become a crazy, radical, left-winger.

This is a guy who has held office since the 1980s, and the best he can do in a poll is 50%. Hes in trouble.

Political analysts have warned that the three Republicans could hurt themselves by blasting each other throughout June and July, leaving them with little money for TV commercials when they wake up on the morning after the Aug. 9 primary. While Blumenthal will likely be criticized by Republicans on a daily basis for months, the candidates still need to boost their name recognition to compete against an opponent who has been in the public eye for the past four decades.

I think he has done a phenomenal job  both as attorney general and now as senator, DiNardo said. The election is kind of far away. As we get closer, we will see that people will recognize what Sen. Blumenthal has done for Connecticut, and they will be happy to support him. Im confident that he will be OK.

Christopher Keating can be reached at ckeating@courant.com.
 Flash

President of Timor-Leste Jose Ramos-Horta and visiting Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Saturday expressed common willingness to strengthen regional cooperation and safeguard multilateralism.

During their meeting in Dili, the capital of Timor-Leste, Ramos-Horta said his country fully supports the Belt and Road Initiative and other major initiatives proposed by China. China's development benefits Timor-Leste greatly, and is of great significance to the region and the world.

Ramos-Horta thanked the Chinese government and people for their tremendous support in the past years, stressing that Timor-Leste has unswervingly adhered to the one-China policy since the establishment of diplomatic ties.

Timor-Leste is full of confidence and expectation for the future of bilateral relations, the president said.

For his part, Wang expressed appreciation to Ramos-Horta for signing the joint communique on establishing diplomatic ties with China on the day of independence in 2002 when he served as the first foreign minister of Timor-Leste.

Over the past 20 years, Wang said, China and Timor-Leste have treated each other as equals, understood each other and supported each other. Timor-Leste has become an important partner of the Belt and Road Initiative, and China has played a positive role in Timor-Leste's socio-economic development, infrastructure construction and improvement of people's lives.

Immediately after the COVID-19 outbreak, China sent medical supplies to Timor-Leste to help its fight against the pandemic. Chinese medical teams have benefited more than 300,000 people in the country. China has also taken an active part in the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Timor-Leste, Wang said.

China is ready to work with Timor-Leste to take the 20th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties as an opportunity to review their successful experience and draw up a blueprint for the future, so as to elevate their comprehensive cooperative partnership to a new level and set an example of mutual respect, equality, mutual benefit and common development among countries of all sizes, Wang said.

Wang called for efforts to promote high-quality joint construction of the Belt and Road and initiate new landmark projects. China is willing to support Timor-Leste in enhancing its capability for self-development, accelerating its agricultural modernization and industrialization, and achieving diversified development, he said.

The Chinese side will continue to encourage Chinese enterprises to invest and start businesses in Timor-Leste, contributing to its development and revitalization, Wang added.

Both sides also reached consensus on strengthening regional cooperation.

Wang said China supports Timor-Leste playing an active role in regional and international affairs, and expects to see its early entry into the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, on which Ramos-Horta expressed gratitude for China's support as well as the hope that the long-cherished wish will come true at an early date.

Both sides pledged to uphold and safeguard multilateralism.

Wang said China expects Timor-Leste to take an active part in the China-proposed Global Development Initiative and Global Security Initiative, both of which have won widespread support.

Timor-Leste always sticks to its principles despite being a small nation, Ramos-Horta said, noting that his country advocates peaceful settlement of differences through dialogue and consultation as well as unity in responding to challenges facing international peace and security.

Wang is on a visit to Timor-Leste, the last leg of his Pacific tour starting from May 26, which has taken him to island countries of the Solomon Islands, Kiribati, Samoa, Fiji, Tonga, Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea.
Lawmakers involved in the ongoing bipartisan negotiations seeking to produce some form of gun-related legislation said on Sunday that a deal could coalesce around funding for mental health services, school security and an expansion of background checks.

Sens. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Pat Toomey (R-Pa.), who are part of the bipartisan talks, indicated in separate interviews that the potential package could also include incentives for states to implement red-flag laws.



Murphy told CNN State of the Union co-anchor Jake Tapper that the group would look to present concepts to lawmakers in the next five days to see if a deal was possible but cautioned it remained unclear if the talks would bear fruit.

I think, this week, we need to have concepts to present to our colleagues. I dont know that were going to vote this coming week, but we need to make decisions on whether or not we have a sustainable package in the next five days, Murphy said.

Tapper asked the Connecticut Democrat that despite preparing for failure if he thought the talks would work.

Im more confident than ever that were going to get there, but Im also more anxious about failure this time around, Murphy responded.

The bipartisan negotiations were sparked by a mass shooting at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, that left 19 children and two teachers dead. That came just 10 days after a shooting at a supermarket in Buffalo, N.Y., killed 10, where the shooter deliberately targeted Black people.

On Wednesday, a gunman opened fire at a medical building in Tulsa, Okla., killing four people before turning the gun on himself. At least 233 mass shootings have taken place so far in the United States this year alone.

According to a new CBS poll taken about two weeks after the Uvalde shooting, 81 percent of American parents with school-aged children support background checks for all potential buyers, while 72 percent back a national red-flag law system and 62 percent support banning the AR-15 semiautomatic rifle.

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But bipartisan negotiations seeking to curb gun violence after high-profile shootings have come and gone before.

A bill by Toomey and Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) in 2013 to expand background checks for firearm purchases fizzled after it became clear it would not surpass the Senate filibuster, a 60-vote threshold required for most legislation.

Toomey said on CBSs Face the Nation on Sunday that any new deal had to be realistic, expressing hope that at least half of Senate Republicans  a total of 25 lawmakers  would vote in favor of a potential package.

He said background checks were part of the new round of bipartisan talks, but an expansion would probably look different than the 2013 proposal.

It hasnt been finally resolved, Toomey told moderator Margaret Brennan. But something in the space of expanding background checks, I think it certainly is on the table, and I hope it will be part of a final package.

Murphy had said on Sunday that the new potential deal would not include comprehensive background checks for firearm purchases but agreed strengthening the current system was possible. The Hill has reached out to Murphy and Toomeys offices asking for additional details on the state of the background check talks.

Even if some Senate Republicans end up voting for the potential package, the proposals could face opposition from some GOP lawmakers in the House, where Democrats control the chamber by a razor-thin margin and every seat in the chamber is up for election.

House Minority Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.) on Sunday said he does not support legislation on red-flag laws, which enable people to petition a court to prevent an individual deemed a danger to themselves or others from possessing or obtaining firearms.

Scalise told Fox News Sunday guest host John Roberts that red-flag laws are unconstitutional, saying it violates the Second Amendment right to bear arms when they seize firearms from an individual a court deems is a threat.

They literally come into your house and take away your gun without you even knowing that there was some kind of proceeding where somebody said, Oh, I think that gun might be a threat,  Scalise said. Maybe somebody thought taking away a gun from a 19-year-old is going to solve a problem. It happens to be unconstitutional.

Scalise blamed Democrats for a rise in gun violence across the U.S., pointing to the defund the police movement and what he claimed were loose policies from city district attorneys.

Theyre letting criminals back out on the streets and inevitably what you see is higher rates of crime, Scalise said on Fox. And what youre also seeing is more and more American citizens, law-abiding citizens, buying guns to defend themselves.

On ABCs This Week, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, a former mayor of South Bend, Ind., said mayors can take steps to reduce community violence and invest in partnerships.

But youre also looking at Washington to say will anything be different this time? he said.

The idea that us being the only developed country where this happens routinely, especially in terms of the mass shootings, is somehow a result of the design of the doorways on our school buildings, is the definition of insanity if not the definition of denial, Buttigieg said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Spain is ready to provide Ukraine with German-made Leopard 2A4 battle tanks, El Pais writes

The newspaper said that the Armed Forces of Ukraine might receive about 40 tanks that need to be repaired. They have been in storage facilities of the Spanish army's logistics base in Zaragoza for ten years, and are part of a batch of 108 used units that Berlin sold to Madrid in 1995.

Read also: UK agrees to supply Ukraine with MLRS

Also, according to El Pais, Spain offered Kyiv to conduct military training in Latvia on their use. The Spanish army has deployed there a contingent of 500 soldiers with six Leopard 2E tanks.

Read also: Ukrainian forces begin training on HIMARS, says journalist

The second stage of instructing Ukrainian tank soldiers will take place in Spain, El Pais reported.

In addition, Madrid is already completing supplies to Kyiv of Shorad Aspide anti-aircraft missile batteries, which the Spanish army has replaced with another, more modern system, the newspaper writes.

A decision to send these may be made after talks at the International Donor Coordination Center in Stuttgart.

The proposal to supply air defense systems and train tank soldiers was made during a visit to Kyiv on April 21 by Prime Minister of Spain Pedro Sanchez, but due to the complexity of the operation, negotiations took a long time.

Spain has already supplied Ukraine with ammunition, body armor and light armaments like -90 grenade launchers and machine guns.

Help NV continue its work reporting on the Russian invasion
When St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner in 2018 started reviewing Lamar Johnsons murder conviction at the request of his attorneys, her office found serious prosecutorial misconduct throughout the case.

It caused Gardner to seek to correct what she described as Johnsons wrongful conviction in the October 1994 fatal shooting of a man named Marcus Boyd in the Dutchtown neighborhood of St. Louis.

Johnson has been imprisoned for 27 years. Despite Gardners review, he remains at the Jefferson City Correctional Center.

St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner, a former state representative from St. Louis in 2016, argued against overriding then-Gov. Jay Nixons veto on wide-ranging and controversial legislation that would allow for permitless concealed carry of firearms, eliminate the safety training requirement to carry a firearm and legalize stand your ground law.

Gardners conviction integrity unit said it has corroborated Johnsons innocence. Her units investigation found, among other things, that prosecutors concealed payments to the lone eyewitness as well as the criminal history of a jailhouse informant, William Mock.

Johnson did not shoot Boyd and had nothing to do with Boyds murder, and he should not be in prison for the crime, her office determined.

Read Gardners report on Johnsons case here:
There's no doubt that money can be made by owning shares of unprofitable businesses. For example, although Amazon.com made losses for many years after listing, if you had bought and held the shares since 1999, you would have made a fortune. But while history lauds those rare successes, those that fail are often forgotten; who remembers Pets.com?

Given this risk, we thought we'd take a look at whether Tuya (NYSE:TUYA) shareholders should be worried about its cash burn. For the purpose of this article, we'll define cash burn as the amount of cash the company is spending each year to fund its growth (also called its negative free cash flow). We'll start by comparing its cash burn with its cash reserves in order to calculate its cash runway.

Check out our latest analysis for Tuya

When Might Tuya Run Out Of Money?

A company's cash runway is the amount of time it would take to burn through its cash reserves at its current cash burn rate. When Tuya last reported its balance sheet in December 2021, it had zero debt and cash worth US$1.1b. Looking at the last year, the company burnt through US$132m. So it had a cash runway of about 8.1 years from December 2021. Even though this is but one measure of the company's cash burn, the thought of such a long cash runway warms our bellies in a comforting way. You can see how its cash balance has changed over time in the image below.

How Well Is Tuya Growing?

Notably, Tuya actually ramped up its cash burn very hard and fast in the last year, by 152%, signifying heavy investment in the business. While that isa little concerning at a glance, the company has a track record of recent growth, evidenced by the impressive 68% growth in revenue, over the very same year. Considering the factors above, the company doesnt fare badly when it comes to assessing how it is changing over time. Clearly, however, the crucial factor is whether the company will grow its business going forward. So you might want to take a peek at how much the company is expected to grow in the next few years.

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How Hard Would It Be For Tuya To Raise More Cash For Growth?

We are certainly impressed with the progress Tuya has made over the last year, but it is also worth considering how costly it would be if it wanted to raise more cash to fund faster growth. Companies can raise capital through either debt or equity. Commonly, a business will sell new shares in itself to raise cash and drive growth. By looking at a company's cash burn relative to its market capitalisation, we gain insight on how much shareholders would be diluted if the company needed to raise enough cash to cover another year's cash burn.

Since it has a market capitalisation of US$1.6b, Tuya's US$132m in cash burn equates to about 8.2% of its market value. That's a low proportion, so we figure the company would be able to raise more cash to fund growth, with a little dilution, or even to simply borrow some money.

So, Should We Worry About Tuya's Cash Burn?

It may already be apparent to you that we're relatively comfortable with the way Tuya is burning through its cash. For example, we think its revenue growth suggests that the company is on a good path. While we must concede that its increasing cash burn is a bit worrying, the other factors mentioned in this article provide great comfort when it comes to the cash burn. Considering all the factors discussed in this article, we're not overly concerned about the company's cash burn, although we do think shareholders should keep an eye on how it develops. An in-depth examination of risks revealed 2 warning signs for Tuya that readers should think about before committing capital to this stock.

Of course, you might find a fantastic investment by looking elsewhere. So take a peek at this free list of companies insiders are buying, and this list of stocks growth stocks (according to analyst forecasts)

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
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STORY: The migrant caravan made up of Venezuelan, Cuban and Central American citizens left Tapachula Monday morning (June 6), and walked for several hours in the midst of intense heat, and rain.The group arrived in Huixtla where they heard of the announcement of visa concessions for undocumented immigrants who intend to reach the United States border and request asylum.Migration activists said the group could be one of the region's largest migrant caravans in recent years.U.S. President Joe Biden is expected to announce a regional pact on migration later in the week.
Several Trump family members have met with the committee investigating the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.

Last week, the panel announced that it would hold the first of a series of public hearings on Thursday evening.

While the committee has said that it has no plans to call upon the former president himself, Donald Trump Jr., his fiancee Kimberly Guilfoyle, Ivanka Trump and her husband Jared Kushner have all met with the committee.

Heres what we know about those meetings.

Donald Trump Jr.

Earlier this month, Trump Jr. met with the committee virtually for a little more than three hours. During the voluntary meeting, former President Trumps eldest son did not assert his Fifth Amendment privileges.

The meeting, which was described by sources familiar with the matter as cordial and uneventful, had been expected after sources provided information to ABC News in April, though it was unclear when the meeting would occur.

Trumps eldest son was among many people texting with then-Chief of Staff Mark Meadows on Jan. 6.

In one text, Trump Jr. urged Meadows to get Trump to condemn the Jan. 6 riot at the capitol. In a second, he warned it would destroy Trumps legacy if he did not do more to stop the riot.

Kimberly Guilfoyle

Guilfoyle, Trump Jr.s fiancee, joined the panel for at least one voluntary interview which reportedly turned into a heated disagreement.

In February, Guilfoyle accused the committee of allegedly leaking her appearance.

Her attorney Joseph Tacopina in a statement at the time accused Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) and others of hijacking the interview.

In response, the panel said Ms. Guilfoyle has information of interest to the Select Committee and has provided documents germane to our investigation.

The Select Committee had hoped she would do as dozens of other witnesses have done: participate in a voluntary transcribed interview with staff and committee members, a panel spokesperson said in a statement.

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Ms. Guilfoyle has now declined to do so, forcing the Select Committee to compel her testimony at an upcoming deposition.

Guilfoyle was subpoenaed, and in April was seen entering the building that is home to the panels investigators reviewing the events of Jan. 6.

Guilfoyle spoke at the rally in Washington that preceded the storming of the Capitol.

Ivanka Trump

Trumps eldest daughter joined the committee in April for a voluntary interview.

Its still going on, Chair Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.) told reporters at the time, roughly five hours after Ivanka Trumps scheduled virtual appearance before the panel.

Shes answering questions. I mean, you know, not in a broad, chatty term, but shes answering questions, Thompson added of the former presidential adviser.

Thompson said she had neither tried to assert executive privilege or the fifth amendment during the questioning.

In January, the panel wrote to Ivanka Trump, marking the first official outreach to a member of the presidents family. In that letter, the panel issued a formal invitation for a meeting, falling short of actually subpoenaing her.

The committee noted that the then-presidents daughter spent significant time with him in the days around the Capitol riot, including witnessing a conversation between Trump and his then-vice president, Mike Pence, the morning of Jan. 6.

Similarly, the Select Committee would like to discuss any other conversations you may have witnessed or participated in regarding the presidents plan to obstruct or impede the counting of electoral votes, the committee wrote in its letter to Trump.

Jared Kushner

Kushner, Trumps son-in-law and husband to Ivanka Trump, also met with the committee voluntarily in late March.

You know, what Ill say is that, you know, we were able to ask for his impression about these third party accounts of the events that happened that day and around that day, Rep. Elaine Luria (D-Va.), a member of the House select committee investigating the attack, told MSNBC when asked about Kushners meeting.

So he was able to voluntarily provide information to us, to verify, substantiate, provide his own, you know, take on this different reporting. So it was really valuable for us to have the opportunity to speak to him, Luria added.

On the day of the attack at the Capitol, Kushner was traveling to Washington, D.C., from Saudi Arabia. He reportedly did not go to the White House after arriving in the city.

Trumps son-in-law largely avoided working on efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election in his work at the White House.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The U.S. aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan, right, and South Korean landing platform helicopter ship Marado, accompanied by smaller vessels, take part in a joint exercise in the Philippine Sea on Saturday. (South Korea Defense Ministry)

The U.S. aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan concluded a naval exercise with South Korea in the Philippine Sea on Saturday, the two militaries said, amid signs that North Korea is possibly preparing to conduct its first nuclear test explosion since 2017.

The three-day exercise that began Thursday in international waters off the Japanese island of Okinawa was apparently the allies first joint drill involving a U.S. aircraft carrier since November 2017.

At that time, the Ronald Reagan joined the USS Theodore Roosevelt and Nimitz in a rare three-carrier exercise with South Korean naval vessels during North Koreas last provocative run of nuclear and intercontinental ballistic missile tests.

The latest drill came weeks after President Biden and South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol in a summit in Seoul vowed to upgrade defense exercises and discuss ways for Washington to protect its ally in the face of growing North Korean threats.

The U.S. Navys 7th Fleet said that the exercise was aimed at strengthening the interoperability of the two navies.

On Friday, Bidens special envoy for North Korea, Sung Kim, said Washington was preparing for all contingencies in close coordination with South Korea and Japan as it monitors North Korean preparations for a possible nuclear test that could be imminent.

Kim, who was in Seoul for a trilateral meeting with his South Korean and Japanese counterparts to discuss the nuclear standoff with North Korea, said Washington assesses that the North is pressing ahead with preparations at its nuclear testing ground in the northeastern town of Punggye-ri.

The Norths next test would be its seventh since 2006 and the first since September 2017, when it claimed to have detonated a thermonuclear bomb to fit on its intercontinental ballistic missiles.

Nuclear negotiations between Washington and Pyongyang have stalled since 2019 over disagreements in exchanging the release of crippling U.S.-led sanctions for the Norths disarmament steps.

North Korea has already conducted missile tests 17 times this year, including its first ICBM demonstrations in nearly five years.





This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
LONDON (Reuters) - British transport minister Grant Shapps said on Sunday the government would work hard with the aviation industry to avoid a repeat of the chaos at airports last week as passengers faced lengthy delays and cancellations of hundreds of flights.

Airports across Europe have struggled to cope with a post-pandemic rebound in demand, but British airports have been particularly hit by major disruption over the past week. Schools were on a half-term break and the country also had a long public holiday weekend to mark Queen Elizabeth's 70 years on the throne.

Shapps, who said earlier this week airlines should stop selling tickets for flights they could not staff, said the industry had to sort out the problem.

"The industry itself needs to solve it," he told BBC TV. "The government doesn't run airports, it doesn't run the airlines. The industry needs to do that."

Airlines had hoped for a bumper summer for passengers after two years of COVID-19 travel restrictions.

But they have struggled to recruit staff after the turmoil of the pandemic, and complain it is taking longer to recruit new employees and vet them for security clearance.

Shapps said staff cuts during the pandemic had gone too deep.

"We'll work with the industry very hard ... to make sure we don't see a repeat of those scenes," he said.

A change in the law was making it easier to deal with the administration needed for security clearance, he said, adding he did not envisage a need for the army to be called in to help speed up the security checks.

(Reporting by Michael Holden; Editing by Frances Kerry)
KATERINA TYSHCHENKO  SATURDAY, 4 JUNE 2022, 22:22

The Ukrainian military destroyed 47 pieces of Russian equipment in the Donetsk and Luhansk areas on Saturday, including a Ka-52 helicopter.

Source: Joint Forces Group; East Operational and Tactical Group

Details: Joint Forces soldiers repulsed five attacks by the aggressors on Saturday, and fighting is still going on at three locations.

In the past 24 hours, the Joint Forces have destroyed: 3 tanks; 4 artillery systems; 11 armoured combat vehicles; and 26 vehicles.

Air defence units shot down a Ka-52 combat helicopter and 2 Orlan-10 unmanned aerial vehicles in the skies over the Ukrainian Donbas.

In the combat area of the East operational and tactical group, Ukrainian artillery inflicted fire damage on a concentration of Russian troops and equipment, and also destroyed two ammunition depots and a command-and-control post.

The invaders losses are: personnel - 60, armoured personnel carriers - 1, armoured combat vehicles - 1, mortars - 2, artillery tractors - 26, refuellers - 1, and UAVs - 3.

The occupiers attacked approximately 30 settlements in Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts on Saturday, destroying and damaging 27 civilian structures, including 24 houses, an orphanage, the Azot chemical plant and an agricultural enterprise. Two civilians were killed and eight others were injured in the attacks.
By Bogdan Kochubey

KYIV (Reuters) -Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Sunday he had traveled to Lysychansk and Soledar, two cities very close to some of the most intense fighting between his country's troops and Russian forces.

The beleaguered city of Lysychansk is just a few kilometres south from Sievierodonetsk, where one of the war's biggest ground battles is taking place and which Ukraine claims to be regaining more control of.

"I went with the head of (my) office to the east. We were in Lysychansk and Soledar," Zelenskiy said in his nightly video address, adding he would not elaborate on the visit. [L1N2XS0IM]

In two separate videos released later, Zelenskiy, dressed in his trademark khaki T-shirt, is shown talking to troops in confined, bunker-like structures, presenting some with awards and addressing others.

"What you all deserve is victory - that is the most important thing. But not at any cost," Zelenskiy said in one of the videos.

Reuters was not immediately able to confirm whether the videos were recorded in Lysychansk and Soledar.

The trips that were publicly revealed on Sunday were rare outings by Zelenskiy outside the capital Kyiv since the start of the Russian invasion on Feb. 24 and could be the closest to the frontline yet.

Lysychansk and Sievierodonetsk are in the Luhansk region and Soledar is in the Donetsk region. Both regions make up the broader Donbas region, Ukraine's industrial heartland, which Russia claims is on a mission to "liberate."

Ukraine says it is fighting for its very survival against a Russian imperial-style land grab. Observers say that achieving goals in the east is necessary for Russian President Vladimir Putin to claim the military operation a success.

ZAPORIZHZHIA

Earlier on Sunday, Zelenskiy said he had visited front-line troops in the southeastern region of Zaporizhzhia, whose governor claims that 60% of the region is under Russian occupation.

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"I want to thank you for your great work, for your service, for protecting all of us, our state," the statement quoted Zelenskiy as saying, adding that he held a minute of silence for fallen troops.

Zelenskiy's office later said the president also visited a medical facility in the region and spoke with people forced to leave their homes, including from Mariupol, which is now in Russian hands after being under siege for weeks.

He promised action to ensure that all displaced people would be properly rehoused.

"We will truly help you tackle this issue," the president's office quoted him as saying.

(Writing by Conor Humphries, Ron Popeski and Lidia Kelly;Editing by Jane Merriman, Tomasz Janowski and Diane Craft)
You are here: World

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A major wildfire broke out on Saturday afternoon in the southern coastal part of Athens, prompting a large response from the fire service as the blaze was reaching residential areas.



Fanned by strong winds, the flames spread quickly across the foothills of Mount Hymettus in Glyfada and Voula regions, posing threat to inhabited areas.

The Civil Protection service issued an emergency 112 alert to residents of neighboring areas, urging them to evacuate their houses.

The fire seriously damaged four homes and burned cars, while one fireman was hospitalized with respiratory problems, according to authorities.

More than 100 firefighters aided by six firefighting aircraft and five helicopters dropped tones of water in an attempt to douse the blaze.

Greece suffers from many wildfires every summer due to high temperatures and arsonists.

In 2021, hundreds of blazes in the wider Athens region, the Peloponnese peninsula and Evia Island among others decimated more than 100,000 hectares of forestry and farmland in the wake of the country's worst heat wave in the last few decades.

In 2018, 102 people died in the coastal resort of Mati, near Athens, in Greece's worst-ever fire disaster.
NextShark

The recall election for San Francisco District Attorney Chesa Boudin comes to an official close today. San Francisco Mayor London Breed has also been known to clash with Boudin on police initiatives, telling The New York Times in an interview that she knew who she was voting for in the recall election but was not ready to reveal what she planned to do publicly.
Shai Weiss says he is being treated for stage-three colon cancer. Steve Parsons/Getty Images

Shai Weiss, CEO of Virgin Atlantic, says he has stage-three colon cancer but is continuing to work.

In an interview with The Sunday Telegraph, he also revealed that he had a tumor removed.

Richard Branson's airline recently said cabin crew will be allowed to display tattoos when working.

The CEO of Virgin Atlantic has revealed he has cancer and had a tumor removed but will continue to run Richard Branson's airline while being treated.

In an interview with the UK's Sunday Telegraph, Shai Weiss said he discovered he has stage-three colon cancer after seeking medical advice as he struggled to shake off an extended bout of tiredness after catching Covid.

"We've caught it in time. It's not spread to other major organs. So this chemotherapy is to ensure there's no recurrence of cancer."

Weiss told the newspaper that he is undergoing a three-month course of chemotherapy to remove cancerous cells in the surrounding lymph nodes.

"I'm still working. But there are days I'm off. When I need to go to treatment," Weiss added. "When I'm in a bad state, not all my days are perfect, not all my days are great, and it's not all smiles."

Weiss is not the first business leader to carry on working after being diagnosed with cancer. In 2014 JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon revealed that he had throat cancer, and although he made fewer public appearances, he continued to run the Wall Street bank.

The former CEO of Goldman Sachs, Lloyd Blankfein, shared in 2015 that he had been diagnosed with lymphoma.

Weiss, however, stressed that he did not feel sorry for himself: "It's just something that I've got to get through. I understand all the risks, but my efforts are focused on getting well and getting back. For myself, my family, my friends, and the company."

Weiss has been Virgin Atlantic's CEO since January 2019 but joined in 2014 as its finance chief. Last week Virgin became the first UK airline to allow its cabin crew to display tattoos while working.

In the interview, Weiss said he continued to look forward rather than backward: "I'm a positive individual. Why would I be looking back? I'm looking forward  that's who I am."

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Despite continuing to work, he did not underestimate the toll his treatment would take: "There's nothing good about cancer to be categorical. Chemo is a terrible thing. It needs to attack the body  it's poison."

A Virgin Atlantic spokesperson said: "We have always taken pride in being very open and transparent with our people. In early May, Shai shared with them that he was recently diagnosed with colon cancer. Following a successful operation, he is now undergoing a programme of chemotherapy and with the support of an excellent medical team, he expects to make a full and complete recovery."

"Shai will continue to lead Virgin Atlantic throughout," adding "we all stand alongside him, wishing him a speedy recovery and focusing on the future together."

Read the original article on Business Insider
About 18 turtles and tortoises worth about $30,000 have been returned to The Turtle Source in Estero after they were allegedly stolen by a man visiting the breeder and keeper for a repair job.

A Tampa-area man who authorities allege stole around $30,000 in turtles from an Estero breeder is being sought after not showing for a recent court hearing.

A bench warrant has been issued for Jermaine Wofford, 48, of Riverview, just south of Tampa. He was scheduled to appear June 1 for a case management conference before Lee Circuit Judge Bruce E. Kyle on charges of grand larceny.

Wofford is a suspect in the theft of 18 tortoises and turtles  worth about $30,000 according to the Lee County Sheriff's Office  at The Turtle Source. The alleged thefts were likely made during two visits, in February and March.

Owner Marcus Cantos, a 30-year experienced award-winning breeder and keeper in Estero, said that some of the reptiles have been returned but a number remain missing.

"We definitely do (have some unaccounted for). We wish we didn't. We got five of them (back) so that brought the total outstanding down to around $21,000," he said. "We never heard anything back about the rest."

He said The Turtle Source is among about 40 turtle breeders in Florida and the facility breeds around 128 species.

Related: How to safely remove a turtle from the middle of the road

Ask the Expert: How to help a turtle in Florida avoid becoming roadkill

Cantos said that the business noticed the missing reptiles shortly after a repairman made a visit to the site.

After checking the site's surveillance cameras they saw the perpetrator "helping himself," Cantos said.

Cantos called in the Sheriff's Office who used facial recognition software to identify the man and trace him to Hillsborough County where they recovered five of the missing creatures.

The Turtle Source owner said Sunday that the case has taken an odd turn.

"He turns around and he tells his lawyer and the (assistant district attorney) ... he says 'I was actually bartering it out for turtles, I was doing my work for turtles'," Cantos said.

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The Hillsborough County man was originally called out to repair a beverage cooler and was asked to look at a washer.

More: Warmer months mean many of Florida's majestic animals are on the move, preparing for summer

Cantos said Wofford had problems with both repairs.

"We paid him a check for $300-$400 for the first part, in his first visit, which cleared," Cantos said. He said another check, for a second visit, was also cut, before any missing turtles were discovered.

"We did stop payment on that check," Cantos said. "Does it make any sense at all that we'd be bartering out for a service that was a hundred times the value in turtles?"

At The Turtle Source in Estero, a golden flame Florida red-bellied turtle can range from $945 to $8,995. Two of these species were among those taken.

Some of the tortoises and turtles the breeder offers can go upward of nearly $9,000. For example, an adult Sulcata tortoise on the website  one of the species taken and also called an African spurred tortoise  is advertised up to $1,595; a Galapagos Island tortoise ranges up to $6,995; and a golden flame Florida red-bellied turtle can reach $8,995.

Cantos said he is going to install signage at his breeding site, a certified agricultural facility, outlining a state statute that thefts of agricultural items produced on a farm facility such as reptiles, fish or animals comes with a felony charge and a minimum $10,000 fine.

"It's a wonderful law," Cantos said. "It's kind of the way cattlemen do it, or the way construction guys do it, with good reason. They don't want people messing with their stuff."

Cantos was concerned that maybe the thefts were being done "to order." He said if someone was so inclined and took photos of the species being bred then they could definitely find someone willing to buy them.

The species taken were hatched at the facility, which lessens the sting a tiny bit, Cantos said.

"Thank goodness we hatched most of that, so it's not truly out-of-pocket," he said. "But it is stuff I could have sold otherwise."

Cantos' biggest concern is how the reptiles are ultimately treated because, he said, not everyone has the proper respect and ability.

"In some cultures they eat turtles," he said. "They will kind of make a show of it. If you can eat a $1,000 turtle for dinner you must be rich."

Connect with breaking news reporter Michael Braun: MichaelBraunNP (Facebook), @MichaelBraunNP (Twitter) or mbraun@news-press.com.

This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: Man alleged in Estero Florida turtle theft skips court; warrant issued
The Cessna Citation XLS Gen2. Abby Wallace/Insider

The Cessna Citation XLS Gen2 has a large cabin, transducer sound system and customizable interiors.

The model is completely sold out and costs over $15 million.

I toured the jet while it was on display in Geneva and was surprised by how much can fit inside.

The Cessna Citation XLS Gen2 is Textron Aviation's latest model. I toured the private jet while it was on display at the European Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition in Geneva last week.

The Cessna Citation XLS Gen2. Abby Wallace/Insider.

Two Cessna Citation models preceded the XLS Gen2, the Citation XL and XLS. A spokesperson for Textron Aviation told Insider that the new model has is updated features including stairs in the cabin door, an entry curtain, and a larger cabin.

The Cessna Citation XLS Gen2. Abby Wallace/Insider.

Inside, the main cabin has two pairs of seats, as well as additional seating at the front and back.

The cabin inside the Cessna Citation XLS Gen2. Abby Wallace/Insider.

The most popular cabin configuration is a nine-seat space, but the jet can hold up to 12 passengers.

A look inside the Cessna Citation XLS Gen2. Abby Wallace/Insider.

An additional pair of adjoining seats at the front of the cabin also fold down to create room for bags and other luggage.

Inside the Cessna Citation XLS Gen2. Abby Wallace/Insider.

Beside the seat pair, there are additional storage cupboards, space for a coffee machine, and a pull-out stone counter top ideal for slicing lemons and limes.

Inside the Cessna Citation XLS Gen2. Abby Wallace/Insider.

The main cabin is also tech-friendly, boasting wireless charging ports and different sized cup holders.

Inside the Cessna Citation XLS Gen2. Abby Wallace/Insider.

The cabin has adjustable lighting, and instead of built-in speakers, it is equipped with transducers that can be controlled from any Bluetooth device. "It's almost like being immersed in a speaker," a spokesperson said. "It's like being in a theatre with surround sound."

Inside the Cessna Citation XLS Gen2. Abby Wallace/Insider.

The jet also has a touchscreen that displays a flight map and controls temperature and lighting.

Inside the Cessna Citation XLS Gen2. Abby Wallace/Insider.

A spacious toilet is situated at the rear of the cabin.

The bathroom inside the Cessna Citation XLS Gen2. Abby Wallace/Insider.

A spokesperson for Textron Aviation told Insider that the model is popular with charter companies as well as corporate customers because of the large cabin. A number of private individuals also use the jet to travel with families and pets.

The Cessna Citation XLS Gen2. Abby Wallace/Insider.

Most of these private buyers tend to customize their jets, a spokesperson added, choosing from up to 20 design options.

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The Cessna Citation XLS Gen2. Abby Wallace/Insider.

The model I boarded had sustainable composite veneer tables made of oak and walnut, according to the company. Customers can also opt for customized stitching on the seats...

The seats inside the Cessna Citation XLS Gen2. Abby Wallace/Insider.

... and the carpets are made from wool and silk.

One of the seats onboard the Cessna Citation XLS Gen2. Abby Wallace/Insider.

The jet is mainly suitable for flying regionally, including journeys from the east to west coast of the US or around Europe, according to Textron.

Inside the cockpit of the Cessna Citation XLS Gen2. Abby Wallace/Insider.

The model would set you back over $15 million  if it wasn't already sold out.

The Cessna Citation XLS Gen2. Abby Wallace/Insider

Read the original article on Business Insider
ST. PETERSBURG  Just when Ryan Yarbrough appeared to be squelching the cynicism over his aptitude as a regular Rays starter, the left-hander re-booted the outcries Sunday with one dreadful double bill.

Emphasis on double.

The White Sox (25-27) smacked five of them  two of the ground-rule variety via bounces over the centerfield wall  during Yarbroughs 68-pitch debacle.

But the wretchedness was nearly followed by a rally. Mike Zuninos two-out, two-run home run capped a four-run Rays sixth inning before the White Sox bullpen closed things out in a 6-5 Tampa Bay defeat before a Tropicana Field audience of 11,162.

We basically lost that game because of me, Yarbrough said.

Five days after his longest appearance of the season (6 innings) in a loss at Texas, Yarbrough frequently fell behind on hitters while struggling to command his change-up (especially off the plate to right-handers) and cutter.

He needed 36 pitches to get through the first inning alone. Sox shortstop Danny Mendick led off with a single before Andrew Vaughn finished an 11-pitch at-bat  featuring five consecutive foul balls  with a blast to centerfield that bounced over the wall.

Yarbrough then forced Luis Robert to pop out to first before walking cleanup hitter Jose Abreu. Jake Burger, who hit a game-winning pinch-hit home run in the White Sox 3-2 victory Saturday, then matched Vaughns shot with another ground-rule double that bounced beyond Kevin Kiermaiers reach and over the short wall in center, scoring two runs.

Yarbs just didnt have the command that he needs to have to go out there and pitch like hes capable of, Rays manager Kevin Cash said. I felt like he was falling behind and then having to throw strikes that were having to catch a lot of the plate. And the White Sox, to their credit, they were ready for it.

Yasmani Grandal followed with a two-run single to rightfield, giving Chicago a 4-0 lead. No. 9 batter Josh Harrison led off the second with a double, and advanced to third on rightfielder Manuel Margots throwing error, before Vaughn again doubled two batters later to score Harrison. Luis Roberts single scored Vaughn.

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Yarbrough would allow another double to Burger before exiting. He allowed eight total hits, walking two and striking out none. Forty-three of his 68 pitches were strikes.

Obviously it was a pretty terrible day, Yarbrough said. Nothing really went well. I think that was the biggest thing, especially when theyre a really aggressive lineup and they can do some damage, and the fact that Im not locating like I want to, it ends up for some bad results.

The Rays rally commenced on Isaac Paredes leadoff home run in the fifth, and Randy Arozarenas two-run triple the following inning. Two batters later, Zunino sent Sox right-handed starter Lucas Giolitos 100th pitch  an 85-mph slider  over the leftfield wall to cut Tampa Bays deficit to 6-5.

But the Rays (31-23) managed one hit over the final three innings, a two-out Yandy Diaz single in the sixth that ended with him getting picked off in a rundown while trying to steal second. Sox right-handed reliever Kendall Graveman struck out the side in the eighth before closer Liam Hendriks retired the Rays in order in the ninth.

Standing throw-to-throw with the Sox bullpen was Tampa Bays foursome of relievers, which combined to work 7 scoreless innings. The contingent included Andrew Kittredge, who was activated earlier in the day from the injured list and pitched a perfect ninth in his first appearance since May 16.

But mildly overshadowing him was right-hander Ralph Garza Jr., who pitched a career-high 3 innings and escaped two jams, striking out one and walking none. Garza became the first pitcher in franchise history to allow seven or more hits in a scoreless relief appearance.

Garza gave us every opportunity to get back into that ball game, Cash said. And if we were to tie it or take the lead, it wouldve been a lot because of his work that he provided, so Im appreciative of that.

Contact Joey Knight at jknight@tampabay.com. Follow @TBTimes_Bulls

  

Sign up for the Rays Report weekly newsletter to get fresh perspectives on the Tampa Bay Rays and the rest of the majors from sports columnist John Romano.

Never miss out on the latest with the Bucs, Rays, Lightning, Florida college sports and more. Follow our Tampa Bay Times sports team on Twitter and Facebook.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Saturday that 113 churches in Ukraine have been hit by Russian shelling since the beginning of the invasion.

The Skete of All Saints monastery in Lavra, located in the Donetsk region of Ukraine, has burned down, becoming the latest religious structure desecrated by the Russian army, Zelensky said in an address. Three monks were killed by shelling in Lavra on Wednesday.

During the full-scale war, 113 churches have already been destroyed or damaged by Russian shelling. Among them are the ancient ones  those that withstood World War II, but did not withstand the Russian occupation, said Zelensky.

There are also those that were built after 1991, he added, specifically addressing the incident in Lavra: Reconstruction of the Skete of All Saints of the Svyatohirsk Lavra began in 2001. June 10 would be another anniversary of the beginning of construction.

Zelensky said that Worship services are forced to be held in the basement in Ukraine due to the possibility of Russian shelling.

Zelensky implored the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, which he noted is still considered in Moscow to be connected with the Russian Orthodox Church, to draw More decisive conclusions and a clear condemnation of each of those who condone aggression in response to the Russian attacks on churches.

Zelensky added that Ukrainian diplomats will do everything to keep the destruction of churches and other culturally important infrastructure in Ukraine in the international public eye.

The Russian army can stop burning churches. The Russian army can stop destroying cities. The Russian army can stop killing children. If the same person in Moscow just gives such an order. And the fact that there is still no such order is an obvious humiliation for the whole world, said Zelensky, in an apparent rebuke to French President Emmanuel Macrons comment Saturday that world powers should not humiliate Russia.

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We must not humiliate Russia so that the day when the fighting stops we can build an exit ramp through diplomatic means, Macron said in an interview, designating his country as a mediating power in the conflict.

Zelensky concluded his address by describing the widespread destruction caused by Russias ongoing war on Ukraine.

Russia is deliberately and systematically destroying Ukraines cultural and historical heritage, as well as social infrastructure, housing, and everything necessary for normal life, he said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
NORFOLK  The number of people who died from drug overdoses rose to 2,656 deaths in Virginia in 2021, setting a record for the state for the second year in a row, and fentanyl continued to be the driving force behind the spike.

In 2020, overdose deaths jumped 42% from the year before. While 2021 didnt quite keep up with that pace, overdose deaths increased by another 15%, or 347 deaths, according to a report released by the Virginia Department of Health.

Fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid, caused or contributed to 76.5% of all overdose deaths in 2021, up 4.4% from 2020.

Fentanyl has proven a particularly deadly problem in part because a small amount can be very potent and drug traffickers are mixing it in other drugs to make them easier and cheaper to manufacture and transport, said Rosie Hobron, the statewide forensic epidemiologist with the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner and the author of the VDH report.

If you look at it from a drug dealer perspective ... putting it into pills and selling it as other things or mixing them with other drugs is a very cheap addition to make your drugs very potent, Hobron said.

Charles Wilcox, regional vice president and board member of the Northern Region Virginia Association of Addiction Professionals, said lack of access to mental health and addiction treatment facilities is the largest predictor of outsized impacts of the opioid crisis.

If the mental situation is getting worse, people are going to try to get help, Wilcox said, pointing to the COVID-19 pandemic as a major factor in worsening mental health across the board. And the help theyre going to get is the help they can afford, so the rich people are going to go to addiction treatment centers, and the poor people are going to go to the street and get drugs. And if the drugs are laced with fentanyl, theyre going to die.

Staffing and hiring also are part of the ongoing addiction treatment challenges. Jesalyn Moore, a former substance abuse counselor with the Portsmouth Naval Hospital and now the clinical director at Pyramid Healthcare in Newport News, explained shes had trouble hiring peer support specialists  people recovering from drug addiction who have taken the steps to be able to treat others  because of strict state laws on barrier crimes that keep people from being hired if they have certain past offenses.

The potency of illicit drugs being sold on the street also is a factor of concern, according to Hobron. Of particular note are illicitly pressed pills, which Hobron said are indistinguishable from legitimate prescription opioid pills and are being sold on the street as drugs like Xanax or oxycodone. She added these illicitly produced pills often do not contain the same amounts of ingredients within the same batch, so just because one pill does not have fentanyl in it doesnt mean another wont have a lethal amount.

Fentanyl is frequently detected in other drugs. Of the 801 fatal cocaine overdoses in 2021, 84% also involved fentanyl (2.5% more than in 2020), and of the 549 fatal methamphetamine overdoses, 66% involved fentanyl (1% more than in 2020), according to Hobron.

Experts have theorized the instability in unemployment and lack of access to in-person addiction treatment  in addition to the myriad other challenges brought on by the pandemic  caused the uptick in drug usage, but Hobron noted there has not been a corresponding uptick in suicides. This, she said, suggests it may not be the rate of drug use that is changing, but rather the potency of the available drugs.

People were very stressed and had a lot of struggles during the pandemic and you would assume that there would be an increase in suicide, but we didnt see that, Hobron said. It was relatively flat ... and suicide has many of the same risk factors as drug use.

Traditional remedies for overdoses are proving less effective against fentanyl, making it more difficult to save those who overdose, Hobron said. She explained it can take multiple doses of the opioid overdose reversal treatment Narcan to bring someone out of a fentanyl overdose because it has a half-life that is longer than that of Narcan.

So youll see people that are overdosing, they get a dose of Narcan, they come out of it, and then a little bit of time passes and they go back into an overdose because the Narcan has worn off, she said.

One way to address the fatalities caused by fentanyl is to distribute fentanyl test strips which would let drug users know if the substance theyre about to consume contains traces of fentanyl, but state leaders have been reluctant to employ harm reduction strategies, Moore said.

Ive seen a lot of hardened hearts against [drug users from people saying] Well, its a behavior, why would we enable them with harm reduction strategies? Moore said. The perception is that its a them issue so to those in charge and in power its not an us issue.
The Council Bluffs Area Chamber of Commerce is partnering with Iowa Workforce Development and the Iowa Economic Development Authority to complete a laborshed employment study for the Council Bluffs area.

This study will geographically define which communities contribute to Council Bluffs workforce, regardless of political boundaries, according to a press release from the chamber. This defined area is called a laborshed area and is based on commuting patterns.

The purpose of this laborshed study is to measure the availability and characteristics of Council Bluffs area workers. Laborshed studies are useful tools for economic development teams and existing or prospective employers to understand the local labor market, make informed expansion and site selection decisions and maintain/recruit a high-quality workforce.

The laborshed boundary is based on the places of residence of individuals who commute into the Council Bluffs area for employment, the press release stated. For the success of this study, the chamber will be sending letters to employers in Council Bluffs asking that they provide aggregate counts of their employees residential ZIP codes. This reporting will give us an understanding of where each communitys workforce resides.

If employers or their human resources staffs receive a call from someone inquiring about their employee demographics and other employee data, please confirm it is for the laborshed analysis with Iowa Economic Development Authority and Iowa Workforce Development and provide the information as thoroughly as possible. It will assist the local chamber as it works to address the workforce challenges throughout the community and region.

Every year, Iowa Workforce Development conducts laborshed studies across the state. The results of each analysis are publicly available online at www.iowalmi.gov/laborshed. For more information about the laborshed project, please contact Katie Lippold at 515-281-3035 or Alicia Frieze with the Council Bluffs Area Chamber of Commerce at 712-325-1000.

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Hi, my name is Rachel George and Im new around here.

A journalist since my sophomore year of high school, I recently took over as the Daily Nonpareils managing editor, previously serving as Mike Brownlees assistant and the news editor in charge of the Omaha suburbs weeklies, four papers under our umbrella here at the Nonpareil that I had worked at for nearly eight years, since a month or so before my college graduation. I started out covering Papillion, Nebraska before taking over the editor role at the Gretna Breeze and eventually, news editor.

I enjoy all things crafty, though my favorite is scrapbooking. I host Christmas craft parties with my friends and last summer, I took a basic course in making macrame plant hangers. Id love to learn to crochet, if anyone knows a good local resource.

Im from Omaha originally and currently live within a few miles of the Missouri River, on the Nebraska side. I hope you wont hold that against me, as Im eager to get to know the Council Bluffs and southwest Iowa communities even better. A fun-filled summer in Iowa is shaping up for me and my family.

I live with my boyfriend, Brett, his 10-year-old daughter Lillie and our 8-month-old rescue puppy, Sully. We are coming up on one year as homeowners and its been an incredible learning experience. We are grateful.

We love camping, fishing, kayaking, swimming and generally anything that gets us outdoors to unwind and take in some fresh air. If youre willing to share your favorite fishing and camping spots in the area, shoot me an email at rachel.george@nonpareilonline.com.

Or, just shoot me an email to say hi. My inbox is always open, or I can be reached by phone at 712-325-5728. I hope to be approachable and available to anyone with story ideas, questions, concerns and comments.

I am here for all of it and look forward to making more connections around here.

I have a storied passion for community journalism and want to make sure were covering the stories that our readers find interesting. I look forward to getting to know all of you.
When Elizabeth Christensen comes across a problem in her job as a project manager, she needs to fix it. And to fix it, she can research what has been tried before to fix a similar problem  what worked, what didnt work  and come to an informed decision about what to do.

She thinks that legislation should work that way, too, which is one of the reasons she decided to run in the Democratic primary for the Iowa House of Representatives in District 19.

A lot of our laws, our regulations and our legislation, are built on reactions, Christensen said in an interview with the Daily Nonpareil. Weve been here for the last 300 years, built a society and laws around it, and so many laws are reactionary. Theyre reacting to a situation, and now we can see the results of that.

Christensen believes that studying what has or hasnt worked in the past should be taken into consideration when looking at present-day issues.

We have a lot of better ideas based on what weve studied, Christensen said. There are a lot of solutions and they are based on what actually works, what weve seen work. Were driven by data and research and a better understanding than where we were when (certain) legislations got put in place, and we can make improvements.

As the mother of a 1-year-old, Christensen is not only concerned about the present, but the future her daughter will grow up in, and she believes that things have to change.

In four years, in five years shell be an elementary student, and I have absolutely no interest in raising my daughter in that environment, Christensen said.

The environment Christensen is referring to is the seemingly endless spate of mass shootings at schools around the country.

School shootings are a horrible, frightening experience, Christensen said. I did go to (Abraham Lincoln High School) and graduated in 2007, so for the few years before that, it was definitely something that came up in other states.

Christensen remembers participating in tornado drills and fire drills, but she was spared having to go through the active shooter drills that have become commonplace in the United States over the past decade.

Im not really interested in raising my child to experience that, Christensen said.

One of the ways Christensen thinks she can alter the political conversation about gun violence is ranked-choice voting, an electoral system that has slowly been catching on around the country that proponents say is more fair and reflective of the will of the voters.

According to the political website Ballotpedia, with ranked-choice voting, voters rank candidates by preference on their ballots. If a candidate wins a majority of first-preference votes, they are declared the winner, but if no candidate wins a majority of first-preference votes, the candidate with the fewest first-preference votes is eliminated, as are the candidates first-preference votes, bringing the second-preference choices into play. A new tally is conducted to determine whether any candidate has won a majority of the adjusted votes. The process is repeated until a candidate wins an outright majority.

Introducing a ranked choice vote will help eliminate the spoiler effect and give voters an opportunity to become engaged with their civic duty again, Christensen wrote on her campaign Facebook page.

Getting more people to participate in local politics, either by running for office themselves, or simply voting, is another one of Christensens priorities. She wants people to know that anybody can  and should  be politically aware and engaged.

If people think that they arent qualified, I want them to know thats not true, Christensen said.

Christensen feels that she has an obligation to give back to the community that raised her. Though she was born in South Carolina, and her family moved around a bit before settling in Council Bluffs, she considers southwestern Iowa home.

I think everybody is born with (a sense of) obligation to your family or your own children or your parents, and then it expands from there, Christensen said. You live on the land around you and you have an obligation to keep it in good condition. And, certainly at a grander level, if you care for your neighbors, and then you offer care for the land and how youre impacting it you have that obligation to your community and the environment, and that obligation extends more to our descendants than our ancestors.

Christensen is running in District 19 against Vergarie Sanford for the Democratic nomination. The primary election is June 7.

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Apparently, Dan Black has struck a chord with a few people.

The orchestra director at Abraham Lincoln High School and Kirn Middle School was named Licensed Staff Member of the Year for Council Bluffs Community School District.

Black develops positive and productive relationships with students and creates an atmosphere of mutual respect and trust, according to the person who nominated him. In addition, he is able to engage students.

He created the Parent Orchestra event in which parents come to the classroom and are taught to play an instrument by their child.

Students are at the center of his work and celebration, and its obvious that Mr. Black genuinely cares, is passionate about his content and is a highly skilled educator, his nominator wrote.

He has developed connections with the Omaha Symphony, the Omaha Area Youth Orchestra and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln music faculty. In what is known as the Omaha Symphony Music Mentors program, members of the symphony and the school orchestra sit on stage and play the students orchestra music together, Black said.

That music mentors program is really good for kids, he said. We started that program.

Black encourages students to participate in the Omaha Area Youth Orchestra.

We usually have some high school and middle school kids play in it each year, he said.

Last year, students were divided between home and school because of the pandemic, Black said. He created a project that involved students writing their own music and recording it. Students worked in pairs.

We released 10 albums just with high school orchestra, he said. It turned out to be something a lot of other music teachers latched on to, as well, he said.

The school used Soundtrack, a digital audio work station that is kid-friendly, Black said. The music was shared through MP3s. He thought about publishing it, but limited it to the school districts Google platform and steered clear of social media to protect students privacy.

I ended up doing documentation projects with kids, he said. They got to create video recordings of them playing their music.

Black later presented nationally and published a 2021 article for the School Band and Orchestra magazine about creating a record label to showcase student work for Little Kids Rock.

Through Mr. Blacks caring personality, skillful relationship building and expanding promotion of the orchestra program, his classes are growing and the enrollment in the district orchestra program is at an all-time high, his nominator wrote. In fact, the string program at Kirn and ALHS will be reaching more than 100 more students per day than when he started five years ago.

Black grew up around music and took that with him. He played clarinet in band and sang in choir in high school. He also played piano from an early age and later picked up the guitar.

My family is very musical, and its always been part of my life, he said.

Blacks three brothers participated in music growing up but did not pursue careers in music education. He wanted to teach music so I could create a story better than what I experienced, he said.

He earned a bachelors degree in music education at University of Northern Iowa. His first teaching job was as a band director for grades 6-12 in Springville, where he stayed for three years. He also taught in Nebraska City, Nebraska for one year and Red Oak for five years.

Black loved teaching in Red Oak, but decided to earn a masters degree in school leadership at UNI.

I thought I was either going to become a principal or do something new in music education, he said. At the time, I was thinking a principalship was where it was all going. I have a lot of fun brainstorming new approaches.

Black was on the board of the Music Education Association and was a member of the National Association for Music Education and the Iowa Alliance for Arts Education and was involved in developing new fine arts standards for the State of Iowa.

Ultimately, music education won out.

Being a principal is an all-consuming job, Black said. I decided there was still more work to do in arts education and I was suited for that work.

I love teaching orchestra in Council Bluffs, he said. Thats because, in orchestra, we get to talk about music in really cool ways. I love teaching in Council Bluffs just because Im so well supported in being an innovative educator.

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Brittany Hettrick, who has been an educator in Council Bluffs Community School District for 10 years and a principal for seven, has been named Principal of the Year.

Hettrick, who just finished her first year as principal of Longfellow Elementary School, was commended in her nomination for teacher development.

I have had the opportunity to be a mentor and had lots of training on how to support new teachers and the science about what they need in the first few years of teaching, she said.

Hettrick has shown leadership in how she has created a positive school climate, her nominator said.

I first and foremost believe I am a servant-leader, and I want to do everything I can to support teachers and staff in my building, she said. I also firmly believe I am to lead by example in putting students first.

Hettrick showed her commitment to that last fall when there was a shortage of substitute teachers.

I would be the first to volunteer to cover a classroom and not put more on our teachers, she said.

Hettrick sees her role as taking care of her staff.

I really value relationships and getting to know all my staff on a personal level, she said. My students are at the center of our work, but my job is to make sure teachers are supported and happy so they can be there for students and have the resources they need.

Hettrick sets high expectations because she truly believes in the potential of the students.

I believe our students at Longfellow or in Council Bluffs can do anything and are capable of anything, she said. Kids are all the same, its how we support them and foster their growth.

Helping students set goals and supporting teachers so they know they are valued are two of the keys to promoting achievement, Hettrick said. Students just need different kinds of support and learn at different rates.

Hettrick grew up in Pasadena, California and decided in sixth grade that she wanted to be a teacher.

My sixth-grade language arts teacher was phenomenal and connected with her students, she said. She made us feel supported and special, and we learned along the way.

Hettrick came to Iowa to earn a bachelors degree in elementary education at Graceland University in Lamoni.

I really fell in love with Iowa and the educational system here and permanently relocated here after undergrad.

Hettrick started her career in education by teaching in Kansas City, Missouri for five years. While in Kansas City, she earned a masters degree in school administration from University of Central Missouri, which paved the way for her work as a principal.

I had a passion for supporting teachers and making an impact across a whole building, she said.

Next, Hettrick came to Council Bluffs and taught sixth-grade language arts at Wilson Middle School for three years. She first served as a principal at Hoover Elementary School, where she stayed for six years before becoming principal at Longfellow last fall.

Hettrick said she is grateful for the support of the district administration.

I would not be able to be as successful without the superintendent, board and administration, she said. Council Bluffs has the most collaborative, supportive administration I have ever seen.

Hettrick married Matt Jensen, a Council Bluffs native and Abraham Lincoln High School alumnus. His mother taught at Edison Elementary School for 30 years.

They just had a love and passion for the community and brought me here, she said.

Hettrick and Jensen have two daughters, ages 6 and 3.

In what little spare time she has, Hettrick likes playing with her kids and getting them into activities, she said. She likes showing them science experiments, helping them discover the world out there and doing jigsaw puzzles to wind down and relax.

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Twelve local titleholders will compete for the honor of wearing the crown and representing the state at the Miss America contest in December. Preliminary nights are Thursday and Friday with the finals set for Saturday. The Outstanding Teen competition will crown its winner on Friday night.
North Platte City Council members Tuesday will debate proposals to sell city land for a 51-lot modular housing development and further develop Twin Rivers Business Park, both with help from tax increment financing.

Public hearings on both projects will precede initial council votes during the 5:30 p.m. meeting in the City Hall council chamber, 211 W. Third St.

Council members also will take their third and final vote on an unrelated ordinance updating North Plattes residential zoning regulations after a review prompted by a 2020 state law.

They previously advanced the updates on May 3 and May 17, both times by 5-3 votes.

Among other things, the package would reduce the types of residential zoning districts from four to three. Duplexes and townhouses would be allowed in R-2 and R-3 zones and with conditional use permits in R-1 zones.

The Twin Rivers and housing proposals were put forward last month by the North Platte Area Chamber & Development Corp., which owns the business park on State Farm Road.

Council members will begin with their hearing and their first of two votes Tuesday on the chambers request to buy 13.2 acres at West 17th Street and Adams Avenue for the housing development.

That would cover slightly more than half of 23 acres the city owns between 17th Street and the North Platte Cemetery. The southernmost 10 acres would remain in city hands for possible cemetery expansion in the future.

The entire 23 acres has been deemed substandard and blighted for TIF purposes since 1996. North Plattes 2011 comprehensive plan recommends housing be developed in that area, Chamber President and CEO Gary Person said Friday.

He has said the housing project would provide a shovel-ready area for more single-family homes in advance of Sustainable Beef LLCs planned processing plant and the chambers intended industrial rail park outside Hershey.

Chamber leaders are seeking $1.87 million in TIF aid to offset their costs of installing streets and utilities, Person said.

Individual lots would be sold to a developer, which would install prebuilt modular homes on foundations. Such homes are built like stick-built homes but are assembled at a factory and transported to their lot.

Chamber leaders hope homeowners can buy the modular homes for $250,000 or less, Person said Friday. That depends on whether building supplies keep rising, he added.

Even at the $250,000 price, the projects proposed 51 homes would instantly take their place among the most valuable homes north of North Plattes Union Pacific tracks.

Only three of the north sides 1,705 single-family homes had 2021 taxable values of $250,000 or more, according to Lincoln County Assessors Office records. The highest of those three had a valuation of $251,740.

Because the city-owned land is exempt from property taxes, its purchase by the chamber would put the 51-lot projects site on North Plattes property tax rolls.

Local governments would share about $2,800 in first-year property taxes, based on an estimated initial taxable value of $120,000 in the chambers redevelopment plan.

As usual with TIF, property taxes from future growth in taxable values would go to repay the projects TIF-eligible costs for up to 15 years.

The citys Planning Commission and Community Development Authority each unanimously recommended council approval of the housing project after respective meetings last Tuesday and Wednesday.

Approval of the projects redevelopment plan requires only a single council vote. The chambers project, however, also requires an ordinance rezoning the site from A-1 transitional agricultural to R-2 residential.

Like most city ordinances, the rezoning ordinance would require three positive council votes unless members chose to waive one or two of those votes.

First-round debate on that ordinance will follow a hearing and a single council vote on the chambers redevelopment plan for the rest of Twin Rivers.

It seeks $2.8 million in TIF aid to help install streets and utilities in the 19-year-old parks undeveloped 80 acres.

Several new business projects since 2019 have mostly filled out both sides of Twin Rivers Road on the parks east side.

CRA and Planning Commission members also recommended approval of the Twin Rivers plan by unanimous votes last week.

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Big Republican donor Rick Caruso discovered his inner Democrat before running for mayor of heavily Democratic Los Angeles. Photo: David Crane/MediaNews Group/Los Angeles Daily News via Getty Images

Its tough being a Republican in California these days. The GOP hasnt won a gubernatorial or U.S. Senate race in the state since 2006. Democrats appear to have an entrenched supermajority in the state legislature. And thanks to the top-two primary system that voters imposed in 2010, Republicans are no longer guaranteed a spot on general election ballots, a fact that was dramatized when two Democrats competed in the Senate general elections in 2016 and 2018. To the extent that the GOP had any optimism about changing the partisan dynamics of California politics, it was dissipated by their disappointing performance in the 2021 campaign to recall Democratic governor Gavin Newsom. Republican opposition to Newsoms reelection this year is feeble.

Sure, there are significant pockets of Republican support in California, and in 2020, they had a bit of a comeback in U.S. House races. But even then, it involved clawing back four of seven House seats the GOP lost in a calamitous 2018 election.

But as Californians vote in their June 7 primary (since every registered voter was sent a mail ballot, votes have already been rolling in for weeks), there are three notable Republican personalities who have a chance to win in this enemy territory  but not with conventional strategies. Two of them have discarded the toxic party label and a third is downplaying it in a way that acknowledges Democratic domination. But all three are running on conservative themes that are resonating elsewhere in this midterm election, only without the loud-and-proud Republicanism.

The best known of the trio is probably billionaire developer and veteran GOP donor (and member of the board of the Ronald Reagan Library Foundation) Rick Caruso, who suddenly announced he had become a Democrat on the eve of launching his candidacy for mayor of Los Angeles. His signature developments (epitomized by the Grove) are aesthetically pleasing and orderly mixed-use commercial and residential communities that Angelenos may compare favorably to the rising crime and homelessness affecting other public spaces in their city. His stated desire to clean up L.A. is a quite literal appeal to the order part of an otherwise traditional law-and-order campaign message (he also wants to hire more police officers and in the past has been a vocal advocate of controversial broken windows policing strategies that often target minor crimes contributing to disorder rather than violent crime itself).

Thanks to his credibility on how to make living surroundings pleasant, and his enormous self-funding (hes spent $34 million already, which is a lot for a municipal primary), hes now favored to make the general election, likely against veteran congresswoman (and lifelong, not overnight, Democrat) Karen Bass, who will benefit from a 3-1 Democratic registration advantage in the city (offsetting Carusos 10-1 spending advantage). His campaign will be watched by conservatives across the country, even though most of them wish he were running as a Republican.

A second ex-Republican candidate running an even older-school law-and-order campaign is Sacramento District Attorney Anne Marie Schubert, who is riding a backlash to criminal-justice reform in order to challenge Democratic state Attorney General Rob Bonta. The incumbent was appointed to the position when Xavier Becerra resigned to become President Bidens secretary of Health and Human Services; Becerras predecessor was Kamala Harris. So Schubert is implicitly taking on a long legacy of liberal criminal-justice policies in a state where voters are now jumpy about rising rates for certain crimes (notably murder, and in some locales, robberies).

Schubert is famous for her role in the investigation that identified and captured the so-called Golden State Killer, who last year pled guilty to 13 murders and 13 rapes back in the 1970s and 1980s. Schuberts also from a prominent Republican family in Sacramento (her brother ran the notorious Proposition 8 ballot initiative campaign in 2008, which banned same-sex marriage in California). But Anne Marie Schubert is gay and has distanced herself from conservative positions on abortion as well. She discarded the Republican label after winning her second term as DA in 2018. However, her campaign is more classically conservative than Carusos. She is basically treating the little-known Bonta as a front man for the far more famous and controversial progressive DAs in San Francisco (Chesa Boudin, who faces a recall election on June 7) and Los Angeles (George Gascon, who could be recalled in November).

Her background and hard-core message have drawn strong support from law-enforcement circles, as the Los Angeles Times recently noted. [D]ozens of Californias top law enforcement organizations have endorsed Schubert, along with the majority of the states 58 prosecutors.

Schuberts key problem on June 7 is that her otherwise shrewd switch to independent status could trip her up before she can make it to the general election. Bonta is the only Democrat in the AG race, but there are two actual, non-crypto Republicans, one of whom (former federal prosecutor Nathan Hochman) has been endorsed by the state GOP. Schubert needs to get past Hochman before trying to unite independents and Republicans (and some more conservative Democrats) against Bonta in November.

Being shanked on his right flank on June 7 will not be a problem for the third unconventional GOP candidate in a California statewide race, controller candidate Lanhee Chen, the only one of the trio running as a self-identified Republican. Going into this race, he was probably better known in Washington than in California: He was the highly influential policy director for Mitt Romneys 2012 presidential campaign. But he grew up in California and now teaches at Stanford. His pitch to voters is that a totally Democratic-dominated state government specifically needs a Republican in the fiscal watchdog role of controller. In other words, hes offering a Horatius at the Bridge self-description that implicitly depends on his Republican buddies losing every other election in sight. He also cleverly argues that the controller gig should be made nonpartisan in the future and refuses to say whether he voted for Donald Trump in 2020. What gives his message a lift are widespread concerns over alleged waste and corruption in the spending of federal COVID-19 stimulus dollars, and a general sense that Californias legislature is a bit punch-drunk with bountiful revenues.

While Chen needs some nonpartisan street cred if he expects to win in November, his path to a top-two finish in June is smoothed by the fact that four significant Democrats are running (incumbent Democrat Betty Yee is term-limited). The state party has endorsed Board of Equalization member and progressive stalwart Malia Cohen, but the more centrist state senator Steve Glazer has some support, as does Los Angeles City controller Ron Galperin and heavily self-funded tech executive Yvonne Yiu. The table is set for Chen to make it to November, but if he does hell have to double down on the implicit message that Democratic voters need a Republican jerk like him to keep lawmakers from running wild.

There will be other story lines for California Republicans this year. There should be a modest pro-GOP wave in turnout and voter preferences that will help its belabored U.S. House candidates navigate a new map engineered by Californias authentically citizen-run redistricting commission. And its very likely the next Speaker of the U.S. House will be Bakersfield Republican Kevin McCarthy (replacing San Franciscos Nancy Pelosi). Thanks to the top-two system, we wont know a lot of winners on June 7, and even the hints we get could be obscured a bit by the low turnout primaries in California usually attract (which seems to be even lower than usual in early voting by mail).

But keep an eye on Caruso, Schubert, and Chen on June 7. They may teach new lessons in how to run as a stealth Republican in blue states.
Governor Kathy Hochul. Photo: Spencer Platt/Getty Images

On Thursday night, an event structured as a debate between New Yorks Democratic gubernatorial candidates turned into a smart, passionate gripe session. The absence of Governor Kathy Hochul from the proceedings did not prevent her from being the main topic of conversation. Hochul had said she was too busy closing out the final hours of the legislative session to participate, but that did not stop the two candidates who made it, Representative Tom Suozzi and New York City public advocate Jumaane Williams, from arguing that she ought to be fired.

Sixty-nine percent of New Yorkers say Kathy Hochul is failing on crime. Sixty-six percent say shes failing on the economy and they dont like her Buffalo Bills billion-dollar taxpayer giveaway, said Suozzi in his opening statement. Her lieutenant governor was arrested for bribery and corruption, and a mere 36 percent give her a passing grade on job approval. And yet, this unelected governor didnt show up for our debate tonight. We can do better.

Williams struck a similar tone when talking about how to revitalize the upstate economy.

The Cuomo-Hochul administration has dumped money into things that would never have worked in the first place. We had the first Buffalo Billion. Were now going on the second Buffalo Billion. We have a film studio in Syracuse that never produced the things that they said it was gonna produce, he said. Instead of dumping money into these big projects, instead of dumping into big corporations coming  what if we gave small businesses upstate and across the state the same tax incentives that were giving to these projects that never produce the things we want to produce?

There are plenty of things that need improvement in New York. Forty percent of voters say the state is headed in the wrong direction, according to a recent poll. And about 39 percent say they are actively trying to move out of the state, or have considered doing so  including an astonishing 56 percent of Latino voters; 48 percent of Black voters; nearly 50 percent of voters age 18 to 24; and between 44 percent and 49 percent of voters in households earning between $75,000 and $150,000 a year.

Fundamental unhappiness in four key pillars of the Democratic base  Black, Latino, young and middle-class households  signals a problem for Dem incumbents like Hochul. But with less than three weeks to go before the June 28 primary, Suozzi and Williams have little time to waste in persuading voters to go in a new direction, and thats easier said than done.

The two challengers were unfailingly polite and tossed softballs to each other on Thursday night, even in the cross-examination session where each candidate was allowed ask his rival a direct question. (Suozzis question to Williams: How do you think Kathy Hochul is going as governor?) The chumminess of the night didnt necessarily help the candidates, though.

I think they unintentionally and unwittingly established why Hochul is in a leading position in this primary, says Bruce Gyory, a longtime Democratic political strategist and professor of political science. They talked past each other. They were attacking her, but the Suozzi wing of the party wont buy into what Jumaane is saying, and vice versa.

On public safety, for instance, Suozzi has been a critic of bail reform and has promised to use the governors power to remove progressive prosecutors like Manhattan district attorney Alvin Bragg if they dont aggressively go after violent criminals. Williams, by contrast, is a longtime advocate for dialing back a police-first approach to public safety and investing in preventive measures like violence interrupters.

Democratic progressives and moderates have been tussling over the issue for a couple of years now. While Suozzi courts moderates who want to dial back bail reform and Williams fires up progressives who want to see more reform, Hochul can cater to the fat middle position of the Democratic Party, which is pro-reform and also strenuously anti-crime.

What sometimes seem to be capricious actions by Hochul, like her suddenly insisting on changes to bail reform in the closing days before this years budget deadline, are actually an attempt to find a middle position that commands support in a plurality of Democratic households.

Gyory predicts that Suozzi and Williams will have a tough time cutting into that wide base.

To win as a Democrat, you have to have a broader wing span than either one of these guys have. Their inability to persuade the other sides base means theres a functional limitation on each of their ability to lead a broader Democratic coalition, he told me. You cant win if you dont get the voters Suozzi is speaking for. And youre not also going to win in the general election unless you can motivate the base of the party that Jumaane comes from. The problem is each has not yet shown an ability to connect with the other side.
A congressional staffer wears a rifle-shaped pin on his suit during a House Judiciary Committee mark-up hearing in the Rayburn House Office Building on June 2. Photo: Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

In a 50-50 Senate where filibuster fanatic Joe Manchin controls much of the agenda  and where one of the two parties involved isnt generally interested in legislating  its never smart to count on any bill actually becoming law, unless its an infusion of aid to Ukraine or perhaps the renaming of a post office.

Getting ones hopes up about gun legislation is especially unwise. Almost a decade ago, in the wake of the Sandy Hook massacre, it briefly seemed likely that Congress would do something in the face of such unprecedented horror. But a modest background-check bill sponsored by Manchin and Republican Pat Toomey died via filibuster when 42 Republicans (and four Democrats no longer in the Senate) voted against it. And then, the GOP paid the steep electoral price of  easily winning back control of the Senate in 2014. The episode proved beyond doubt that the core modern Republican position on guns  almost no compromising, even on provisions that a vast majority of Americans claim to support  made plenty of political sense. And its generally the same playbook the GOP has followed in Congress followed after the many other high-profile mass shootings of the last decade, from Las Vegas to Parkland to El Paso: Wait out the brief spike in anti-gun fervor, gently pivot back to the status quo. Congress hasnt passed major gun legislation since 1994, when Republicans were far more flexible on the issue. So after the massacre at Robb Elementary School, it seemed inevitable that the federal response would follow the same infuriating pattern of futility as always.

And yet, whether its because the drumbeat of mass shootings has become so deafening, or because Republicans fear that guns might actually galvanize Democrats just months from the midterms, something does maybe possibly seem different this time. The only metric that really matters for evaluating such a claim is enthusiasm from Republican leadership to get something done. And on that score, things are looking cautiously optimistic. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell tapped Texas Senator John Cornyn to lead negotiations with a bipartisan group of senators, thus giving his tacit approval to at least the possibility of a deal. Cornyn is hardly a moderate on guns; he has already promised that what he deems restrictions on the Second Amendment are not gonna happen. But Cornyn did work with Chris Murphy  the Connecticut Democrat who has made gun reform his signature issue post-Sandy Hook  on a small fix to the (inadequate) background-check system in 2017, which became law, and has co-sponsored other, similar small-bore background-check bills. And he appears to be making more than a token effort here.

Cornyn told Politico that doing nothing in response to Uvalde would feed the narrative that we cant get things done in the public interest. NBC News reported last week that the group, which includes Manchin, Toomey, Murphy, Coons, and several others  has splintered off into smaller working subsections, focusing on areas of concern that include red-flag laws, which seem likely to figure into any eventual bill, as well as expanded background checks and mental-health provisions. Various members have sounded optimistic, if vague, notes about the progress made so far. Murphy tweeted that there is growing momentum to get something done, and Republican Susan Collins said, We are making rapid progress toward a common sense package that could garner support from both Republicans and Democrats. (Okay, maybe shes not the most reliable oracle.)

There are massive caveats here. If a passable bill emerges from this group, it is still likely to be a very incremental change and inherently unsatisfying to those continually aghast at Americas gun-violence epidemic. A ban on AR-15-type rifles is off the table. Ammunition limits are off the table. Even universal background checks are probably off the table.

A protester holds a sign during a gun reform rally that was held on August 21, 2019, in Dayton, Ohio, in the wake of a mass shooting at the area earlier that month of that left nine dead and 27 wounded. Photo: Megan Jelinger/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

And it is quite likely that the talks will end in complete failure again, as Murphy conceded to CNN. Republicans, including former president Trump, have expressed fleeting interest in gun reform several times over the last few years, usually in the immediate aftermath of a mass shooting, only to retreat from their positions shortly afterward in the face of unified opposition from their base. If Republicans needed new justification to revert to their usual stonewalling, they need only look at what happened to Republican congressman Chris Jacobs, who two weeks ago came out in favor of an assault-weapons ban  and last week announced he wouldnt run for reelection amid the blowback from his party.

Yet the bar for progress is so low, and the intractable scourge of gun violence such an urgent problem to address, that any movement feels significant  and right now, even the perception that change might be in the air feels refreshing. On Thursday night, President Biden, who has perhaps wisely taken a back seat in the Senate negotiations, pleaded for legislative action on national TV. Enough, he said. Maybe enough Senate Republicans are thinking similarly. Maybe the eternal cries of do something! will actually be met with  something. Thats about the best we can expect from the federal government right now.
MIAMI  A loggerhead turtle whose left fin was destroyed in a shark attack is rehabbing at Zoo Miamis new Sea Turtle Hospital, where veterinarians were able to save more than 100 of her eggs after she was rescued.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission sent the turtle to the hospital on May 22 after she was found at the Port St. Lucie power plant, said Ron Magill, the zoos communications director.

An ultrasound determined that the 50-year-old, 388-pound turtle was pregnant. She also had scars on the shell that indicated it had been previously hit by a boat and attacked by another shark earlier in life, officials said.

The hospital staff stabilized the turtle, dubbed Baymax, in a recovery tank and gave her fluids, vitamins and food that included squid and crab. Then, on Memorial Day, she was moved to a sand-filled pen and given calcium and oxytocin to stimulate her labor. By Tuesday morning she had deposited over 100 eggs. Then they prepared to treat her shark bite injury.

During a seven-hour surgery a team led by Zoo Miami associate veterinarian Marisa Bezjian and assisted by chief veterinarian Gwen Myers, the exposed bone was removed and the surrounding wound was cleaned and treated. More eggs also emerged, and like the others, they were taken in a bin of sand to the Miami-Dade Parks Sea Turtle Conservation Program, to incubate in a man-made nest, Magill said.

Baymax provided an early launch for the hospital, which recently passed inspection and had permission to accept sick and injured turtles, but wont officially open until next month, Magill said.

While its not uncommon for sea turtles to lose limbs to sharks or boat strike, many adjust and lead productive lives. Thats the hope for Baymax. Officials said shell be closely monitored for several weeks until shes healthy enough to return to the wild.
RENO, Nev. (AP)  Nevada will divest investments valued at $89 million in companies that profit from the manufacture or sale of assault-style weapons, state treasurer Zach Conine announced Thursday. The decision adds the state to the list of those that have exempted firearm businesses from their portfolios in recent years.

Connecticut, Rhode Island and New York City are among places in the U.S. that have taken similar steps and Conine called on treasurers around the U.S. to follow suit.

We have a moral obligation not to just offer thoughts and prayers, but to act, said Conine, a Democrat. And we have a financial obligation to rid ourselves of investments that carry this much risk.

The announcement came nine days after a gunman killed 19 children and two teachers after storming an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, with a military-style rifle.

An initial review by the Nevada treasurers office identified about $89 million in investments that would be subject to the new policy. That represents just a fraction of a state's overall investment portfolio of nearly $50 billion.

Conine said that investments that cannot be divested profitably soon will be sold when officials can do so.

He recalled tearfully dropping off his three children at school last week with and a discussion at his child's pre-K graduation about how to evacuate in case of a shooting.

Nevada has the 16th highest rate of gun deaths in the country with an average of 519 per year, according to Gov. Steve Sisolak's office.

Nevada also is home to the headquarters of one of the leading gun manufacturers in the country, Polymer80, a main manufacturer of ghost guns, or unfinished frames and receivers that can be made into full guns.

The Biden administration announced in April that unfinished frames and receivers would be included into the federal firearm definition.

Conine's announcement came a day before National Gun Violence Awareness Day.

Stern is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercover issues.

Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
HELSINKI (AP)  NATO kicked off nearly a two-week U.S.-led naval exercise on the Baltic Sea on Sunday with more than 7,000 sailors, airmen and marines from 16 nations, including two aspiring to join the military alliance, Finland and Sweden.

The annual BALTOPS naval exercise, initiated in 1972, is not held in response to any specific threat. But the military alliance said that with both Sweden and Finland participating, NATO is seizing the chance in an unpredictable world to enhance its joint force resilience and strength together with two Nordic aspirant nations.

Finland and Sweden both have a long history of military non-alignment before their governments decided to apply to join NATO in May, a direct result of Russias Feb. 24 invasion of Ukraine. Over the past years, Moscow has repeatedly warned Helsinki and Stockholm against joining the Western military alliance and warned of retaliatory measures if they did.

Ahead of the naval drill, which involved 45 vessels and 75 aircraft, the top U.S military official said in Sweden  the host of the BALTOPS 22 exercise  that it was particularly important for NATO to show support to the governments in Helsinki and Stockholm.

It is important for us, the United States, and the other NATO countries to show solidarity with both Finland and Sweden in this exercise, U.S. Gen. Mark Milley, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said Saturday during a news conference aboard the large amphibious warship USS Kearsarge, which was moored in central Stockholm.

Milley, speaking with the Swedish Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson, stressed that the Baltic Sea is a strategically important body of water  one of the great seaways of the world.

He said from Moscows perspective, Finland and Sweden joining NATO will be very problematic and leave Russia in a difficult military position as the Baltic Seas coastline would be almost completely encircled by NATO members, except for Russias Baltic exclave of Kaliningrad and the Russian city of St. Petersburg and its surrounding areas.

Turkey, a NATO member that has had good relations with Russia, has objected to Finland and Sweden joining the military alliance, citing their alleged support for a Kurdish group that Turkey labels as terrorist. NATO's chief has been trying to resolve the dispute.

The United States has never before moved such a large warship as the 843-foot USS Kearsarge in the Swedish capital, where it sailed through narrow passages in the Stockholm archipelago, Milley said.

As NATO's close partners, Finland and Sweden have participated in the naval drill since the mid-1990s.

BALTOPS 22 is scheduled to end in the German port of Kiel on June 17.

Follow the APs coverage of the war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine

Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
For congressional candidate Shrina Kurani, cryptocurrency is not only the future of money, its a transformative technology that could revolutionize campaign funding and attract a new generation of voters.

She is among a vanguard of candidates courting campaign contributions in digital currencies such as Bitcoin.

We are a campaign that is speaking to a large part of the population, especially younger people, said the American-born daughter of Indian immigrants, who is on Tuesday's primary ballot as she seeks the Democratic nomination for a congressional seat east of Los Angeles.

Kuranis foray into digital currency to help fund her campaign would not be possible if she were running for the California Legislature or some other office within the state. While the federal government allows political donations in cryptocurrency, California does not, having banned the practice four years ago.

The difference underscores not just the rising popularity of cryptocurrencies but also how regulation varies widely across the U.S.

Some states, including Arkansas and North Carolina, also dont allow for cryptocurrency donations in state races under existing campaign finance laws. Others have followed federal rules for congressional candidates and allow donations with disclosure requirements and contribution caps, typically set at $100. Still other states, including Hawaii, Idaho and South Dakota, have adopted no specific policies around digital currency donations.

Digital currencies offer an alternative that does not depend on banks. Instead, transactions are validated and recorded on a decentralized digital ledger called the blockchain.

Perianne Boring, founder and CEO of the Chamber of Digital Commerce, a trade association representing the blockchain industry, likened the use of cryptocurrency in politics to former presidents Barack Obama using smartphone technology and Donald Trump leveraging social media.

Blockchain technology can increase participation in the political process in a very positive way, Boring said, noting that is particularly true for younger people and members of minority groups who might be skeptical of traditional monetary methods.

Critics say the potential downside is lack of transparency  not knowing who is ultimately behind the donation.

Beth Rotman, director of the Money in Politics and Ethics Program for the nonpartisan watchdog group Common Cause, worries that traceability is more difficult with cryptocurrency.

In campaign finance, you want disclosure. You need backup information, Rotman said. I know (cryptocurrency) is sexy and signals to people that youre a hip new candidate, but there has to be a better way to do it than compromise the other parts of the campaign finance system.

Timothy Massad, a former chairman of the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission, also is concerned about disclosures.

The danger is that this is still, in my mind, a sector where there is insufficient regulation, particularly on the risk of illicit activity and money laundering, said Massad, currently a research fellow at Harvard Universitys Kennedy School of Government.

Cryptocurrency donations have been permitted in federal races for years, after the Federal Election Commission allowed their use in a 2014 opinion.

The commission said political committees should value digital currency contributions based on the market value at the time the donation is received. Candidates also must return contributions that come from prohibited sources or exceed contribution limits.

In the 2017-18 election cycle, cryptocurrency donations reported to the Federal Election Commission came to just over $1.2 million. They have hit about $500,000 so far in the current cycle, which has months to go before the general election.

Shortly after the Federal Election Commission allowed cryptocurrency donations, then-U.S. Rep. Jared Polis, a Democrat, began soliciting them. Now governor of Colorado, Polis is seeking similar contributions as he runs for reelection, with donations in cryptocurrency capped at $100.

Through campaigns accepting cryptocurrency donations, we can show the security, accessibility and the opportunity of using crypto in different types of transactions and also help send the message that Colorado is a home of innovation, said Amber Miller, Polis campaign spokesperson.

As the popularity of digital currencies grows, some states that prohibited cryptocurrency contributions are reassessing.

Jay Wierenga, spokesperson for the California Fair Political Practices Commission, said the agency will reexamine its ban later this year.

The commission is always seeking to keep up with and get ahead of the changing universe around political activity, Wierenga said.

Oregon is one of the more innovative states in elections, having been the first to institute vote-by-mail. But in 2019, Oregon banned candidates campaigning for offices within the state from accepting cryptocurrency donations. That was despite former Secretary of State Dennis Richardson, a Republican, saying they should be considered as a new and innovative way to expand participation.

Two months after Richardson died of cancer in 2019, the Oregon Legislature closed the door to such donations. As the Senate prepared to vote, state Sen. Jeff Golden, a Democrat, said: One of the widely shared objectives of this legislative session is to increase the transparency of money in politics, and cryptocurrency tends to go in the opposite direction.

That feeling isn't unanimous. One of the few state lawmakers who opposed prohibiting cryptocurrency donations was Republican Rep. Bill Post. He said a lot of people in the Legislature simply didn't understand it.

I dont want (us) to sound like a bunch of old fuddy-duddies here, he said. Lets get up to speed on the 21st century.

Jesse Grushack, 30, is one of those voters fond of cryptocurrencies and who supports using them for political contributions. The New Yorker donated to the campaign of Democrat Matt West, a fellow cryptocurrency enthusiast who had a failed bid for an Oregon congressional seat this year.

At this point in American politics, anyone whos pro-crypto is someone I want to support, Grushack said.

Kurani, 29, said her embrace of cryptocurrency is more than just a chance to display her tech credentials. Its also a way to reach those for whom the digital alternatives to U.S. dollars are becoming their legal tender of choice.

She downplays concerns about donor secrecy, saying her campaign converts crypto donations into dollars and pursues the same information  name, address, employer, occupation  that it would for any donor.

We are really making sure that we can represent American people who are participating with new kinds of digital currency, she said.

Associated Press data journalist Camille Fassett in Oakland, California, and AP writers Audrey McAvoy in Honolulu; Stephen Groves in Sioux Falls, South Dakota; and Keith Ridler in Boise, Idaho, contributed to this report.

Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Wise joins Nebraska Community Foundation Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF) welcomes Kacie Wise to its talented team of professionals committed to building stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska. Wise will wear many hats as NCF's Office and Gift Processing Assistant, supporting NCF's mission through a variety of clerical and administrative roles. Wise is a Lincoln native and received her Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Doane University in 2016. "We are thrilled to have Kacie on the team," said NCF President and CEO Jeff Yost. "Her experience and education will help Nebraska Community Foundation immensely as we continue our mission to build a resilient, innovative and welcoming Greater Nebraska." Prior to joining NCF, Wise served in various roles at Nelnet followed by nearly six years at Concordia University-Nebraska as the sole financial aid coordinator. About Nebraska Community Foundation Nebraska Community Foundation unleashes abundant local assets, inspires charitable giving and connects ambitious people to build stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska. Headquartered in Lincoln, the Foundation serves communities, donors and organizations by providing financial management, strategic development, education and training to a statewide network of 1,500 volunteers serving over 270 communities. In the last five years, 45,915 contributions have been made to NCF and its affiliated funds. Since 1994, NCF has reinvested $423 million in Nebraska's people and places. For more information, visit NebraskaHometown.org.
You'll need savings of your own to get by in retirement -- there's no question about that. Sure, you may have other income sources, like a small pension or Social Security benefits. But chances are, the bulk of your buying power during your senior years will come from the savings you amass.

Now you'll often hear that maxing out a 401(k) plan is a smart thing to do, since it clearly means socking away a lot of money for retirement. But before you go that route, you may want to consider some alternatives.

Is there a better place for your money?

Let's get one thing out of the way. If your employer offers a 401(k) match, then it's a wise idea to contribute enough to that plan to snag that free money in full. But that doesn't mean you have to max out your 401(k), and you may not want to for a number of reasons.

First, 401(k)s often come with limited investment choices. And they don't let you buy individual stocks. That could be a problem if you're a hands-on investor who wants to actively build a retirement portfolio.

IRAs, on the other hand, do allow you to hand-pick stocks. And so that alone could make an IRA a better bet for you.

Then there are fees to consider. Employer-sponsored 401(k)s are notorious for charging costly administrative fees which could eat away at your returns. Similarly, unless you stick to index funds, you could get stuck paying higher investment fees in your 401(k). Those, too, will limit your savings' growth.

Furthermore, while many 401(k) plans now come with a Roth savings option, some don't. And if yours doesn't, that could prove problematic.

The upside of saving in a Roth retirement plan is getting to enjoy tax-free withdrawals during your senior years, when money may be tighter and you don't want the burden of owing the IRS money. And while Roth 401(k) don't take required minimum distributions off the table the way Roth IRAs do, the ability to secure tax-free withdrawals is still huge. But if your 401(k) doesn't offer a Roth option, you may want to house at least some of your savings elsewhere.

Explore your options

Maxing out a 401(k) plan year after year could set the stage for a financially comfortable retirement. But before you do that, do some research and see if it pays to spread your money around instead.

You may decide to keep some of your retirement savings in your company's 401(k), but put the rest into a Roth IRA. You may even decide to keep some of your retirement savings in a regular brokerage account, even if that means forgoing some tax savings.

With a 401(k) or IRA, you're supposed to wait until age 59 1/2 to withdraw your funds or otherwise risk penalties. But what if you want to retire sooner than that? Putting some of your money into a regular brokerage account could buy you more flexibility.

All told, you may do just fine maxing out your 401(k) throughout your career. But it pays to explore different options before assuming that's the best plan.

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Ray Lader used to be an ideal customer for the tobacco companies: He was 12 years old, loyal to his brand, and addicted. But within a few years, he turned into a major thorn in their side. Like thousands of other youth in Florida, Lader became an activist in the Truth Campaign, an unprecedented, highly successful program to curb teen smoking.

Lader has the perfect credentials for an anti-smoking crusader. He's articulate, ambitious, and extremely angry. He was in seventh grade when his father, a two-pack-a-day smoker, died of a heart attack at age 48. Six months later, a teacher who had consoled Lader after the tragedy died of lung cancer. When a spokeswoman from the Truth Campaign visited his ninth-grade class, he was ready to listen. "She told us how the tobacco companies are manipulating us, and it infuriated me," he says. "Right then, I decided to get involved. And I'm never going to stop."

Fired up

Lader isn't the only one who's fired up over tobacco. Tens of thousands of Florida teens have joined the fight. They've formed SWAT teams -- Students Working Against Tobacco -- that visit grade schools and middle schools. They've served on community groups that pushed for tougher regulations. They've discussed issues with legislators. In a break with normal protocol, they've also worked as advisers for a multimillion-dollar media blitz that included slick television commercials and eye-catching billboards, many with the slogan "Our Brand Is Truth."

As repeated surveys showed, the message came through loud and clear. "The campaign really resonated with kids," says Danny McGoldrick, vice president of research for the national Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. Smoking by Florida middle school students dropped by 47 percent in three years. The decline among high schoolers was an impressive 31 percent. "That works out to about 75,000 kids who [aren't] smoking," McGoldrick says.

Truth and consequences

Despite this track record, the Truth Campaign came under attack. Some funds for the program were reduced; others diverted to other social programs in the wake of state budget cuts. Anti-tobacco activists also suspect that the tobacco industry had something to do with the funding cuts. Danny McGoldrick, for one, has his suspicions. "Florida legislators have received $800,000 in campaign contributions from the tobacco industry since the program started," he says. "I think they know what the industry wants."

Just when it appeared the program would completely disappear, anti-tobacco activists achieved a major victory: Florida voters approved an amendment to the state constitution requiring the government to spend at least 15 percent (about $57 million) of the tobacco settlement money each year on anti-smoking programs, including at least five percent on education and counter-marketing mass media.

However, the prior budget cuts may already have taken a toll. Surveys suggest that the decline in smoking among middle and high schoolers has slowed in recent years. Anti-tobacco activists hope to speed the decline with renewed funding for their campaigns.

Selling truth

The American Journal of Public Health published a report that attributed a 22 percent overall decline in youth smoking directly to the Truth Campaign. Over a two-year period, the study found 300,000 fewer youth smokers as a result of the campaign.

It certainly has a winning formula: grass-roots activism combined with modern marketing. "They looked at their constituents and asked 'Why do kids smoke?'" says Sharyn Sutton, PhD, a Washington, D.C.-based marketing specialist who worked as an adviser to the campaign. "Young people want to act like adults and rebel [against being told they're kids]. The campaign channeled that rebellion against the tobacco industry."

The billboards, commercials, and school presentations put forth a unified message: The tobacco industry is trying to take advantage of kids, but kids have the power to fight back. In one memorable television ad, which Lader describes as "one of our best," teens walked into a real-life office of the makers of Kool cigarettes to provide the "Golden Hook" award for suggestive advertising. During a heated discussion, one executive actually said, "One hundred percent of people will die someday."

In another television spot, teens walk into another office building, where they are met by an actor portraying a tobacco executive. Instead of arguing, the executive breaks into a song-and-dance number. A sample of the lyrics: "Just stay focused on the positive! Every eight seconds a smoker dies -- it's becoming routine. But let's stay focused on the positive! Those seven seconds in between."

In another ad, Florida drivers could see a billboard featuring a balding, bikini-clad, 60ish man lying on a beach and smoking a cigarette. The tag line: "No wonder tobacco executives hide behind sexy models."

Such ads strike a perfect tone, McGoldrick says, thanks in large part to the teens who worked with the advertising companies. "The worst thing is for adults to lecture to kids," he says. "The next worst thing is for adults to try acting like kids."

The success of the Truth campaign stands in stark contrast to youth-focused "anti-smoking" ads funded by tobacco companies, McGoldrick says. Such ads suggest that smoking is for adults, not for kids. For the typical middle schooler or high schooler who can't wait to grow up, the message isn't exactly a deterrent. "At best, these ads are ineffective," he says. "At worst, they are intentionally counterproductive."

The campaign has changed the way public health experts think about teen smoking, said Ursula Bauer, PhD, then a researcher with the Florida Department of Public Health. For the first time ever, said Bauer, now director of the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, there is both reason for optimism and a clear blueprint for success. "Hopefully, other states will start copying us," she says, "and we can finally win this war."

References

Interview with Ray Lader, teen who fought against tobacco

Interview with Danny McGoldrick, vice president of research for the national Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids

Interview with Sharyn Sutton, PhD, a Washington, DC-based marketing specialist who worked as an adviser to the anti-tobacco campaign

Interview with Ursula Bauer, PhD, a researcher with the Florida Department of Public Health

Bauer, U.E. et al. Changes in youth cigarette use and intentions following implementation of a tobacco control program. Journal of the American Medical Association. Vol. 284(6) 723-728.

Sly, D.F. et al. The Florida "truth" anti-tobacco media evaluation: Design, first-year results, and implications for planning future state media evaluations. Tobacco Control. Spring, Vol. 10: 9-15.

Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. Staff. http://www.tobaccofreekids.org/organization/staff.shtml

American Legacy Foundation. Truth Fact Sheet. http://www.americanlegacy.org/PDF/truth_Fact_Sheet(1).pdf

Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. Tobacco Use Among Youth. http://www.tobaccofreekids.org/research/factsheets/pdf/0002.pdf

American Lung Association. State of Tobacco Control.http://lungaction.org/reports/state-narrative06.tcl?geo_area_id=12

Originally published on consumer.healthday.com, part of the TownNews Content Exchange.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP)  A years-long effort to protect land around a New Mexico mountain peak held sacred by many Native American tribes got a major boost Thursday with the announcement that dozens of additional square miles will be set aside for wildlife, cultural preservation and recreation.

The $34 million effort by the national conservation group Trust for Public Land comes as New Mexico and the federal government look to preserve more natural landscapes as part of a nationwide commitment. The goal is to increase green spaces, improve access to outdoor recreation and reduce the risk of wildfires as the pressures of climate change mount.

Trust for Public Land partnered with other organizations and foundations to purchase adjoining properties that make up the sprawling L Bar Ranch, which sits in the shadow of Mount Taylor just west of Albuquerque.

The more than 84 square miles (218 square kilometers) includes grassland, rugged mesas and part of the Mount Taylor Traditional Cultural Property, which is on the state register of historic places due to its significance to Native Americans in New Mexico and Arizona.

Generations before the ranch became privately owned, people from surrounding Native American communities would make pilgrimages to the area and its timber, wildlife and plants provided sustenance beyond the ceremonial ties.

The dormant volcano, now covered with ponderosa pine and other trees, also served as a lookout with notable lines of sight to distant mountain ranges to the east.

Tribal leaders say some of the pilgrimage trails are still evident.

The pueblo is hopeful that once the purchase is completed an ethnographic study can be conducted to identify areas, locations and sites of cultural significance, said Randall Vicente, governor of Acoma Pueblo.

Part of the property has been conveyed to the New Mexico Game and Fish Department and the rest will be turned over to land managers in the coming years to create what will be the largest state-owned recreation property in New Mexico. A legislative appropriation and money allocated through a federal excise tax on firearms, ammunition and archery equipment helped with the effort.

A management plan will be developed to ensure recreational access with special considerations for areas important to the pueblos of Acoma, Laguna and Zuni and the Hopi and Navajo people.

Jim Petterson, a regional vice president with Trust for Public Land, called the acquisition significant, saying it will serve as an important island for wildlife, allowing them to move and adapt across a wide range of elevations as temperatures get warmer and precipitation more scarce due to climate change.

In the lower elevations, the remnants of volcanic cones jut up from the valley floor. In the distance are dramatic cliffs that form the edge of mesa tops that are home to grasslands grazed by herds of elk and deer. The area also is home to bear, mountain lions and turkey.

"Its a relatively intact, healthy, just spectacular habitat," Petterson said. Everything that should be there is there right now, and we have an opportunity to create a tremendous state wildlife area that will endure for generations to come. Its really beautiful.

Nearly 625 square miles (1,620 square kilometers) in and around Mount Taylor, including lands within the L Bar project, were designated a traditional cultural property through decisions made by the states Cultural Properties Review Committee in 2008 and 2009. The New Mexico Supreme Court upheld the designation in a 2014 ruling.

The movement to protect the area was prompted by proposals to restart uranium mining. In response, tribes took an unprecedented step to detail their spiritual connections to the area in hopes of winning protection.

Similar fights are ongoing with energy development in northwestern New Mexico, where federal officials have agreed to put a hold on new leasing in the area surrounding Chaco Culture National Historical Park pending a review.

The relationship with the land, as Native Americans, we are the stewards of the land. We maintain this harmony with Mother Earth through culture and prayer," Laguna Pueblo Gov. Martin Kowemy said in a statement Thursday. "It is our responsibility to protect and preserve our land for future generations.

Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
It doesnt appear most other metro-area school districts feel the need to follow the Omaha Public Schools lead in offering stipends to recruit and retain staff.

Multiple suburban Omaha districts said this past week that they arent experiencing the teacher shortage as acutely as OPS and are not considering stipends at this time. Officials at OPS, the states largest school district, unveiled their plan to use federal COVID-19 relief aid for temporary employee stipends Wednesday.

The proposal appears to be legal, Nebraska Commissioner of Education Matt Blomstedt said. He said the Nebraska Department of Education would review the proposal, if asked, to ensure it is consistent with federal law and U.S. Department of Education guidelines.

My understanding is such teacher pay plans are acceptable, he said.

Though the head of the Omaha teachers union and several other educators welcomed OPSs announcement, the reception wasnt universally positive.

The taxpayer advocate group Nebraska Taxpayers for Freedom opposes the stipends, saying bonuses wont solve the personnel problems at OPS. Doug Kagan, president of the organization, said teachers tell his group they are leaving because of student discipline problems and indifference from administrators.

OPS wouldnt be the first metro-area district to award stipends since the pandemic began.

In 2020, with the pandemic raging, Millard provided $1,008 stipends to teachers and salaried staff to compensate them for the extra work demands.

Millard spokeswoman Rebecca Kleeman said teachers have been compensated in other ways, including through a new contract. Millard officials and the union settled on an 8% increase in the compensation and benefits package over the next two years, she said.

Kleeman said Millard, like all metro-area districts, is working on long-term solutions to the teacher and staff shortage.

She said officials anticipate being able to start school in a solid position to meet our students needs.

In the Council Bluffs Community Schools, stipends have been given out twice using federal aid money.

The first time was last December when the district gave $500 retention stipends to all staff, spokeswoman Diane Ostrowski said.

The second came in April when the State of Iowa allocated $1,000 retention stipends to classroom teachers across the state. The district extended the state stipends to other licensed staff as well, she said.

The OPS pay increase proposal, which would apply to all certified and classified full-time and part-time staff for the next two years, follows an exodus of teachers that occurred last month. Some employees cited poor working conditions that werent improving.

Under the districts proposal, which will go before the school board for approval Monday, certified and classified full-time staff would receive an additional $4,500 per year, while part-time staff would receive an additional $2,250 per year provided they work 20 or more hours a week.

OPS Superintendent Cheryl Logan said last week that the staff shortages could lead to increased class sizes in the fall.

Several metro-area districts said they are close to finishing up their hiring of teachers. A couple of districts reported some trouble filling noncertified positions like paraprofessionals and custodians.

In districts with growing enrollment, hiring sometimes continues as late as the first week of school.

Jim Frederick, spokesperson for the Ralston Public Schools, said the hiring for next school year has gone well this spring.

Currently, we just have a couple of open teaching positions for next year, he said.

Ralston officials are not considering stipends at this time, he said.

The Papillion La Vista Community Schools has nearly completed its hiring for the fall, spokeswoman Annette Eyman said.

As of Thursday, the district had four openings for teachers  two elementary and two secondary  and three for specialists, all of which opened in the last week and a half. The district has applicants for those spots, she said.

From a certified teaching standpoint, were sitting pretty good, she said.

Hiring paraprofessionals remains a concern, she said.

The Springfield Platteview Community Schools has not had a problem hiring teachers, spokeswoman Nichole Baugh said.

As of right now, we are 100% hired up for certified staff, she said.

The district, which encompasses much of rural Sarpy County, historically doesnt get as many applications as the more urban metro-area districts, she said.

But when we do, they are people who want to be in that area, she said.

In the Bellevue Public Schools, so far, officials have been able to find teachers and fill open positions, spokeswoman Amanda Oliver said.

We are not raising class size, and we are not offering stipends, Oliver said.

Gretna Public Schools superintendent Rich Beran said that while finding teachers has been tougher this year, he doesnt anticipate any acute problems in the fall.

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WASHINGTON (AP)  For some Afghans who were evacuated as their country fell to the Taliban last summer, the journey to the United States has stalled, and perhaps ended, at a sun-baked cluster of tents and temporary housing on an American base in the Balkans.

While more than 78,000 Afghans have arrived in the U.S. for resettlement since August, the future for those who have been flagged for additional security vetting and diverted to Camp Bondsteel, in the small nation of Kosovo, remains up in the air. The U.S. won't force the dozens there to return to Afghanistan, where they could face reprisals.

Their frustration is growing. Some Afghans at the base, which has been shrouded in secrecy, took the unusual step this week of staging a protest, holding up signs with messages such as we want justice, according to photos sent to The Associated Press.

They just keep repeating the same things, that it takes time and we must be patient, one of the Afghans, Muhammad Arif Sarwari, said in a text message from the base.

Their complaints open a window into an aspect of the evacuation and resettlement of Afghans that has gotten little attention because U.S. authorities, and the government of Kosovo, have been reluctant to say much about the people sent to Bondsteel.

The base houses a mix of adults and children, because some of the people who have so far failed to get a visa to the U.S. are traveling with family. Sarwari, a former senior intelligence official with the Afghan government, said there are about 45 people there, representing about 20 or so individual visa cases, after a flight to the U.S. left with 27 of the refugees on Wednesday.

The Biden administration won't provide details, but acknowledges that some of the evacuees did not make it through what it calls a a multi-layered, rigorous screening and vetting process and won't be permitted to enter the U.S.

While the vast majority of Afghan evacuees have been cleared through this process, the small number of individuals who have been denied are examples of the system working exactly as it should, the National Security Council said in a written statement.

In all, about 600 Afghans have passed through Bondsteel, according to the government of Kosovo, which initially authorized use of the base for evacuees for a year but recently agreed to extend that until August 2023.

Kosovo, which gained independence from Serbia in 2008 with U.S. support, has also provided little information about the Afghans at Bondsteel, citing the privacy of the refugees. Prime Minister Albin Kurti said in a statement that the government is proud of its role providing temporary shelter to them.

Afghans are housed in a section of Bondsteel called Camp Liya, named for an Afghan child handed to the U.S. Marines over a fence at the Hamid Karzai International Airport during the evacuation, according to a U.S. military publication.

It was the chaotic nature of that evacuation that led to the need for an overseas facility in the first place. As the Afghan government collapsed, thousands of people made it onto military transport planes with minimal screening before they arrived at one of several overseas transit points.

The people sent to Bondsteel were stopped and diverted for a host of reasons, including missing or flawed documents or security concerns that emerged during overseas vetting by the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security, officials have said.

At the same time, some in Congress have criticized the administration for what they say has been inadequate vetting of Afghan refugees.

Sarwari made it to Kuwait from Afghanistan in early September with his wife and two of his daughters and says he doesn't know why he's been held up. He was a prominent figure in Afghanistan, serving as the former director of intelligence after the U.S. invasion in 2001. Before that, he was a top official with the anti-Taliban Northern Alliance.

Both positions would make him a target of the Taliban if he were to return.

The vetting team keeps telling us sorry, Washington is just deciding some political issues, he said.

Sarwari has applied for a special immigrant visa, which is issued to people who worked for the U.S. government or its allies during the war. He has not received a response, according to his lawyer, Julie Sirrs.

In theory, he is free to leave but its not clear where he could go, Sirrs said. He obviously cannot return to Afghanistan. Hes clearly in danger if he returns.

He and others live a circumscribed existence on Bondsteel. Although technically not detained, they cannot leave the arid, rocky base and have spent months in tents, which were adorned with handwritten signs during this week's protest. One said unfair decision, while another said children are suffering.

The Biden administration says authorities have determined that some  it won't say how many  simply cannot be allowed to enter the U.S. It is working to find other countries that don't harbor the same security concerns and are willing to accept them for resettlement. No one will be forcibly returned to Afghanistan, according to the NSC statement.

Associated Press writer Llazar Semini in Tirana, Albania, contributed to this report.

Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
MONCKS CORNER, S.C. (AP)  The South Carolina Department of Veterans Affairs is close to getting land for a new veterans cemetery from a public utility.

Santee Cooper would donate 90 acres near its headquarters in Moncks Corner in Berkeley County under a plan approved May 24 by the state legislative panel that oversees capital improvement projects, The State reported.

South Carolina has one of the nations largest per capita veteran populations, Veterans Affairs Secretary William Grimsley said. It has three national veterans cemeteries and one state veterans cemetery, and is looking to establish at least one more state veterans burial ground within the next decade, Grimsley said.

The state is home to about 400,000 veterans, nearly half of whom are 65 or older, and eight major U.S. military installations. While the veteran population in South Carolina is expected to decline somewhat in the decades ahead, the state should retain a higher concentration of veterans than most others, an advantage for securing federal dollars.

One or more new cemeteries would further expand the landscape of veterans services in South Carolina, which recently opened veterans nursing homes in Florence and Cherokee counties and has three more long-term care facilities for veterans in the works.

Over the past year, the veterans department has been scouting potential burial sites throughout the state and is attempting to get land donations in several locations, Grimsley said.

To qualify, a site must be easily accessible, have at least 60 acres of usable land with potential for expansion, be located more than 75 miles from any other veterans cemetery, among other conditions.

Once Veterans Affairs owns the land, the agency can apply for a grant from the National Cemetery Administration to cover development, construction and future burial costs, while the state would be responsible for day-to-day operations, staffing and landscaping, Grimsley said.

If Veterans Affairs does not receive federal grant approval, ownership reverts to the donor.

Local officials are talking with owners of sites in Bamberg and Union counties about possible donation, Grimsley said.

The Moncks Corner site is located along the U.S. Highway 52 bypass overlooking the Tailrace Canal and close to the historic sites of Fort Fairlawn, Stony Landing and the ruins of Biggin Church.

Santee Cooper acquired the land in 1991 but subsequently determined it did not need the property and has authorized its donation to Veterans Affairs.

Santee Cooper is honored to have the opportunity to play a role in bringing a veterans cemetery to our community, the utilitys general counsel wrote to the state's Joint Bond Review Committee. The land, which currently serves as a recreation area that includes an off-road bicycle trail, has been appraised at nearly $2.2 million.

More than 45,000 veterans and their family members are buried in South Carolinas four existing veterans cemeteries, located in Beaufort, Florence, Anderson and at Fort Jackson in Richland County, Grimsley said.

Beaufort, Florence and Fort Jackson are national cemeteries, accepting veterans from anywhere in the country. State cemeteries limit burial to South Carolina residents and service members who were stationed in the Palmetto State.

In addition to veterans, the cemeteries will accept one immediate family member.

All four of South Carolinas veterans cemeteries are active and accepting new burials, but the Beaufort and Florence national cemeteries, which were established in the 19th century, are expected to be at capacity within the next two decades, Grimsley said.

M.J. Dolly Cooper Veterans Cemetery in Anderson, which opened in 2007, should remain active in its current configuration until about 2050. Fort Jackson National Cemetery, which opened in 2009, wont be full until 2070, he said.

For copyright information, check with the distributor of this item, The State.
PHOENIX (AP)  A federal judge has denied an Arizona prisoners bid to delay his execution in the 1984 killing of an 8-year-old girl, according to the ruling posted Sunday.

U.S. District Judge Michael Liburdis decision keeps on track Wednesdays scheduled execution of Frank Atwood, who argued the states death penalty procedures would violate his constitutional right against cruel and unusual punishment by subjecting him to unimaginable pain.

His lawyers said Atwood, who has a degenerative spinal condition that has left him in a wheelchair, would undergo excruciating suffering if he were strapped to a gurney while lying on his back during his lethal injection execution.

Liburdi said in the ruling made Saturday that he would not block the execution based on Atwoods claim, noting that the state will provide Atwood with a medical wedge that will relieve pressure on his spine and can also tilt the execution table. He said those accommodations will minimize the pain Plaintiff experiences when he lies on his back.

The constitution, Liburdi wrote, does not require a pain-free execution, and that Atwoods position will be similar to what he typically assumes in his cell to limit pain.

Liburdi also rejected challenges to the drug the state plans to use and dismissed Atwoods claim over the Arizonas use of the gas chamber, saying it was irrelevant because he will be executed using lethal injection.

The challenge to his method of execution is one of a flurry of last-minute appeals by Atwood. Hes also asking the Arizona Supreme Court to delay his execution while his lawyers pursue claims that he is actually innocent of killing the little girl. That court denied a stay late last week, but is now considering the new claim.

And his lawyers continue to spar with the state over religious accommodations prior to and during his execution. He has been a practitioner of the Greek Orthodox faith for more than two decades and wants the state to allow him to undergo a religious initiation ceremony before the execution and receive last rites while in the execution chamber. The state has mainly agreed, but the two sides are at odds over exact details. A different federal judge is overseeing that matter.

The states insistence on cyanide gas is a cynical choice to force the acceptance of the danger and incompetence of its lethal injection method, at the cost of embracing Nazi methods of mass extermination, Joseph Perkovich, an attorney for Atwood, said in an email Sunday.

Atwood was convicted of murder in the 1984 killing of Vicki Hoskinson.

Authorities have said Atwood kidnapped the girl, whose remains were discovered in the desert northwest of Tucson nearly seven months after her disappearance. Experts could not determine the cause of death from the remains that were found, according to court records.

Atwood maintains that he is innocent of the crimes.

Until last month, Arizona went almost eight years without carrying out an execution. The hiatus has been attributed to the difficulty of securing lethal injection drugs as manufacturers refuse to supply them and to problems encountered during the July 2014 execution of Joseph Wood, who was given 15 doses of a two-drug combination over nearly two hours. Wood snorted repeatedly and gasped before he died. His attorney said the execution had been botched.

The hiatus ended on May 11 when the state executed prisoner Clarence Dixon for his murder conviction in the 1978 killing of Deana Bowdoin, a 21-year-old Arizona State University student.

As part of Atwoods argument to get his execution delayed, his lawyers questioned whether the compounded pentobarbital to be used in the execution meets pharmaceutical standards and whether the state has met a requirement that the drugs expiration date falls after the execution date.

Prosecutors say Atwood was trying to indefinitely postpone his execution through legal maneuvers.

Two weeks ago, Atwood declined to choose between lethal injection or the gas chamber, leaving him to be put to death by lethal injection, the states default execution method.

Arizona, California, Missouri and Wyoming are the only states with decades-old lethal-gas execution laws still on the books. Arizona, which carried out the last gas chamber execution in the United States more than two decades ago, is the only state to still have a working gas chamber.

In recent years, Oklahoma, Mississippi and Alabama have passed laws allowing executions with nitrogen gas, at least in some circumstances, though experts say its never been done and no state has established a protocol that would allow it.

Atwoods lawyers also said Arizona could take up executions by firing squad, a method of execution not used in the state.

Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
LINCOLN  Three generations of women have grown up with abortion being legal and available, even though restricted, in Nebraska.

But older women lived through a time when Nebraska law, like most around the nation, banned abortion except when necessary to preserve a womans life or when advised by two physicians.

Their memories offer a glimpse of what could be in store if the U.S. Supreme Court strikes down Roe v. Wade, the landmark 1973 ruling that legalized abortion, and if abortion opponents in Nebraska succeed in changing state law, although there have obviously been some changes in health care and cultural attitudes in 50 years.

The high court is expected to rule by the end of June. Gov. Pete Ricketts has said he will work with Speaker of the Legislature Mike Hilgers to call a special legislative session on abortion if Roe is overturned.

Both men supported a bill this spring that would have banned all abortions, with no exceptions. However, it would have provided an affirmative defense for a doctor performing an abortion to save a womans life. The measure failed after a filibuster-ending cloture motion fell two votes short.

The 93-year-old

Looking back, Marcia Kushner calls herself pretty naive when she was young. The Lincoln woman didnt know anyone who got in trouble, as they said then.

She was careful to avoid any risk of pregnancy herself before getting married in 1949. That meant avoiding sex, even with her fiance, because condoms were the only birth control available to unmarried couples at the time.

There was no way I was going to not engage in abstinence because of the fear of pregnancy, she said.

Decades later, she learned that four women close to her had undergone abortions in secret and, in three cases, in violation of the law. Kushner is a supporter of abortion rights and spent years volunteering to escort women seeking abortions at Lincolns Planned Parenthood clinic past anti-abortion protesters.

She said her mother didnt talk about her own abortion until she reached her 90s. It happened in the early 1930s, during the depths of the Great Depression. She had two children already and Kushners father was barely managing to support the family by peddling produce from a truck.

When her mother got pregnant, Kushner said, she was determined to go where the rich women in Omaha went for their abortions. The procedure cost $100, a huge sum for the cash-strapped family. They managed only by borrowing from a relative.

Nearly three decades later, in the late 1950s or early 1960s, a pair of friends went together to get abortions, Kushner said. One was a married woman with three children and severe financial struggles. The other was married with four children and couldnt handle more.

When both wound up pregnant again, they reached out to a more worldly relative in another state, who connected them with someone offering abortions. They got on the train in Nebraska for a supposed family visit.

It was not a real savory experience, Kushner said. They really put their lives on the line.

One woman returned with a pelvic infection, a common but potentially deadly risk of such unregulated procedures. She recovered, thanks to antibiotics.

The fourth abortion happened shortly before the Roe v. Wade decision made the procedure legal in Nebraska. The woman was 19 years old, unmarried, a college student, pregnant and ashamed.

Kushner said the young woman went to Planned Parenthood in Lincoln. Workers there helped her arrange an abortion in New York City, where the procedure had been newly legalized. She borrowed money for travel and the procedure, a debt it took a long time to pay off.

She didnt tell a soul, Kushner said. To this day, she does not want her name known.

The 88-year-old

Shirley Lang was aware of abortion in the years before Roe v. Wade, but she didnt give it much thought. She knew abortions were forbidden in her church and in the Catholic hospital where she worked. They were also illegal in every state well into the 1960s.

She certainly never knew any woman who had one.

They would never tell it, the Lincoln woman said. That would be something so hidden.

The few girls in her acquaintance who wound up pregnant outside of marriage mostly ended up marrying the guy who got them pregnant, Lang said.

As a student nurse in the early 1950s in Iowa, she assisted at what was called an abortion. But it wasnt what is commonly thought of as abortion. It happened after the fetus had died and the dilation and curettage procedure was being done to clear out the womans uterus and prevent complications.

Lang also remembered one patient with chronic health problems. The doctor asked what was wrong, and the woman confessed she had had an abortion and started to weep.

Other patients came in with pelvic infections. At the time, big-city hospitals had special wards for abortions that turned septic. Where Lang worked, while some cases may have resulted from illegal abortions, the records did not reflect that.

The mother of six was propelled to action when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that women had a constitutional right to abortion and that states could put few restrictions on it before the third trimester of pregnancy. She co-founded Lincoln Right to Life and has been a leader in the decades-long fight against abortion.

When that happened, I was so shocked by it all, Lang said. I remember thinking this cant happen. I knew that this is an innocent; the fetus is a living human being.

The 77-year-old

Sue Ellen Wall remembers the gut-punch when she first saw the photo in a magazine she pulled from a Lincoln drugstore rack.

A police photo of a woman, later identified as Gerri Santoro of Connecticut, naked, kneeling and collapsed on a motel room floor. Bloody towels between her legs and another towel by her right hand. She had bled to death from an illegal abortion attempted with the help of her partner.

I was old enough to know it was happening and there would be stories in the paper about women found dead, Wall said. That was just kind of a visual shocker.

The photo became an abortion-rights symbol, representing the dangers of driving the procedure underground. Wall, a retired attorney, became an outspoken abortion-rights advocate.

In her personal life, she didnt know anyone ready to reveal they had gotten an abortion. But she knew the toll that pregnancy could take on a womans life.

While in junior high school, she knew a classmate who got pregnant and disappeared. The girl did not return to attend high school. Several years later, two students at the junior high where she was student teaching got pregnant. Those girls stayed and finished out the year.

There was also the family story about her Presbyterian grandmother who had 13 pregnancies, Wall said. To spare her the danger of additional pregnancies, relatives arranged for her husband to visit a prostitute in town on a regular basis and set up violin lessons for Walls father as a cover story.

The 64-year-old

Sandy Danek was in her mid-teens when abortion became legal in Nebraska. One month after the Supreme Court decided Roe v. Wade, a federal court tossed out Nebraskas abortion ban. That May, state lawmakers passed a law allowing abortions in Nebraska for the first time in a century.

Still Danek, now executive director of Nebraska Right to Life, was old enough to experience the time before Roe. She remembers being surprised when a friend of a friend in junior high school got pregnant and her mother whisked her off to New York for an abortion.

It seemed strange to me, she said. Why go all the way to New York?

That mothers reaction contrasted with how two others in Daneks life handled pregnancies outside of marriage. In neither case was abortion considered, she said.

One young woman got married and left school after winding up pregnant at age 16. She later got her GED and went to college. Danek said the girl was terrified to tell her parents, who could be abusive. But they remained calm when a doctors bill for a pregnancy test arrived in the mail and her secret was revealed.

Another young woman Danek knew had gotten pregnant several years earlier. That young woman spent her pregnancy at a Lincoln home for unwed mothers, but kept the baby. Her own father helped her raise the child until she got married.

Theres no erasing the fact that women struggle with these issues, she said.

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BLOOMINGTON  You have to put your name in it to win it, Brandon Caffey of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity said to college scholarship recipients on Saturday.

He represented one of 16 organizations that awarded a total of $81,000 in educational assistance to over two dozen high school graduates and college students during a Joint Scholarship Celebration.

The event was coordinated by the Mentoring and Providing Sponsorships program and hosted at Mount Pisgah Baptist Church in Bloomington. The MAPS program, founded by Dr. Carla Campbell-Jackson and Tony Jones, sponsors the Joint Scholarship Celebration each year.

NAACP Chapter President Linda Foster remarked to the audience that at the heart of the NAACPs mission is to eradicate racism and discrimination.

Once that is done, she said we can live in peace. We can exhale and we can be as human beings should be: in harmony.

As they continue to fight that war on racism, Foster said they need to keep bringing in young people brave enough to apply for scholarships.

Superintendents of both public school districts in the Twin Cities were also present Saturday.

Kristen Weikle, head of McLean County Unit 5, gave her congratulations to all graduates in Bloomington-Normal, and noted she was particularly biased toward Unit 5 graduates. Weikle said she looked forward to them receiving their scholarships.

Barry Reilly, superintendent of Bloomington School District 87, said the scholarships were truly meaningful to the kids in our community, and hes personally excited for them.

Reilly told recipients there are many who have invested in their futures, and they shouldnt be afraid to take advantage of those relationships.

Take the good things that you see in people, learn from those and don't hesitate to reach out and learn from those folks, he said. Continue to do that. Youve got great mentors around you.

Rhonda Johnson, of Normal, told The Pantagraph that her family established the Dr. Dominique Lawson Scholarship fund as a gift for her daughter, a psychologist in Maryland.

That was done, she said, because they wanted more representation of people of color in her profession, noting only 4% of the psychology field are African Americans. Johnson said they raised money to help encourage students to go into that field.

Michael Coleman, a graduate of Normal Community High School, received the Lawson scholarship.

Another recipient present was Tahigee Floyd, 2022 graduate of Normal Community West High School. He told The Pantagraph that he felt shocked and blessed by the awards.

I just thank God that I was able to win, he said, adding that he hopes to help other youth down the road and pass the blessings on.

Floyd said he learned about the scholarship awards a few years ago and had seen others win. And, he said its crazy that he can win one too.

Floyd plans to study marketing at North Park University in Chicago.

Receiving the Mentoring And Providing Scholarships Program fund was Jasmyn Jordan, a 2021 NCWHS graduate whos double-majoring in criminology and political science in the pre-law track at the University of Iowa.

Jordan spoke at the event about her initial takeaways from her freshman year. She quoted civil rights activist Audre Lorde: It is not our differences that divide us. It is our inability to recognize, accept and celebrate those differences.

Drawing parallels between how our bodies need an array of food groups to be healthy and strong, she said, its imperative we surround ourselves with people who demonstrate a variety of mindsets, personalities and abilities.

Without that, Jordan said well remain emotionally, spiritually and physically sad.

Every single human is unique and serves a purpose that is unique, and if all of humankind were identical, our race could not survive, she continued, noting that a homogeneous humankind is unable to solve the worlds problems.

She said diversity and unity allow us to flourish, though groups of certain characteristics will gravitate toward each other. Jordan said they need to learn to be receptive toward the differences of others around them.

Often humans choose to do what is wrong, because doing right is much harder, she said. Some people do not like the differences of others that will directly affect them and challenge their status and power.

Therefore, it's arduous for humans to find worth in each other's diversity.

Awarding organizations included:

 Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Omicron Delta Omega Chapter

 Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Nu Psi Lambda Chapter

 Bergners (Laurie and Ray) Scholarship Fund

 Bradley Encourages  B.E. Kindness Awards

 Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Alumnae Chapter

 Dr. Dominique Lawsons Scholarship Fund

 Dr. Cedrick Williams Legacy Scholarship Fund

 Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Alumni Chapter

 Links, Central Illinois Chapter

 Mentoring And Providing Scholarships Program

 NAACP Bloomington-Normal Branch

 Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Alumnae Chapter

 100 Black Men of Central Illinois

 Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Kappa Mu Sigma Alumni Chapter

 Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Kappa Epsilon Sigma Chapter

 Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Beta Iota Zeta Chapter

Students awarded scholarships included:

Karis Avant

Cyndee Baylis

Dylan Banks

Symone Baptiste

Alannah Blanks

Marcus Brooks

Jade Buchanan

Jade Carthans

Michael Coleman

Lanah Collins

Danasia Conely

Perry Crofton

Kendall Cross

Laurie Diamonika

Naomi Elliott

Reland Franklin

Amya Gaston

Jordynn Griffin

Sean Halperin

Alexandria Hickman

Marissa Hilt

Aleeya Husseann

Mekhi Jones

Rashaad Jones

Jasmyn Jordan

Joyce Kabesa-Mavinga

Samaria Knox

James Love

Andrew Myles

Herve Nzita

Jasmine OConnor

Caleb Pembele

Crofton Perry

Denaiya Pendleton

Floyd Tahigee

Jordan Tatum

Silas Terrell

Jaeda Thomas

Aniya Thompson

Makayla Tupper

Paige Walker

Alexander Williams

Zion Williams

You got plans?

James Harden, executive director of engagement and social learning with the Champaign Unit 4 School District, was the keynote speaker during Saturday's event.

The message he drove home to the audience, especially graduates, was to continually ask themselves: What (are) you doing? Where are you at? You got plans?

He then instructed the audience to put those plans on paper.

If it aint written, it aint real.

Next, Harden said to affirm those plans with phrases of I am...

I am blessed. I am gifted. I am God's child. I am highly favored. I am amazing. I am unstoppable, Harden said.

I am, I am, I am.

Contact Brendan Denison at (309) 820-3238. Follow Brendan Denison on Twitter: @BrendanDenison

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To: G.J. Mecherle

Founder: State Farm

Address: Somewhere Up There

Occasion: 100th anniversary of you founding your little company

Hi again George,

Its been a few years since I last wrote, and youve probably been busy. Thats why it occurs to me you might not have a lot of time to read the papers or listen to radio, and I dont know how good your Wi-Fi IS or if you livestream Up There.

G.J.  about what you quietly did 100 years ago this very week, coincidentally around the celebration of your 45th birthday in Merna  it ultimately changed the face of the Bloomington-Normal area and, in time, really all of America.

Remember back then, G.J.?

You'd had enough of tilling beans. You were tired of tractor sales. You'd had it with pesky rootworm. So in June 1922  smack dab in the middle of your midlife itch  you jumped off the farm tractor, rented a room downtown and, even if you didnt know squat about insurance, hung out a shingle.

Do you recall all that, G.J.?

It was at the launch of automobiles cheap enough for us common people to buy, and you found it unfair that rural folk paid the same for car insurance as those who drove in big cities, like Chicago or New York.

G.J.  are you sitting?

One-hundred years after your little idea, your company has expanded  it now has hubs in places like Atlanta, Dallas and Phoenix, and Im not talking about towns by those names in Illinois.

Its Georgia, Texas and Arizona!

A few years ago, that expansion into huge metro areas made us Bloomington folk wonder if your successors might paradoxically be moving your pride and joy out of its very reason, defy your suggestion that State Farm should always stay rural and out of the big-city media spotlight, and leave the very area that, thanks to all its B-N employees, also made State Farm what it is  a business model thats incredibly profitable.

G.J., it is, after all State Farm, not State Humongous Cities of the South!

Oh, your company still makes us a bit nervous.

They recently moved your investment department out of B-N to Dallas. But the legal department is still here (G.J., no one can live without lawyers today), and 15,000 Twin Citians still call themselves State Farm employees. And, as a show of commitment to your former home, your 21st century compatriots recently dropped $22.8 million to build a bigger, better hangar at our airport to store your companys four new Gulfstream jets, each valued at about $50 million.

Here is the most amazing news of your little adventure, G.J.: 100 years ago this week, you started out with yourself and two secretaries and a few thousand dollars.

Today your company has more than 57,000 employees and its value is listed at $143.2 BILLION (yes, G.J.  with a B!). Thats almost $20 BILLION over JUST two years ago.

You made up to about $16,000 a year  dont get me wrong, that was very good for your time  but media reports today suggest that State Farms chief in 2020 made $24 million, which is really pretty good, too.

Not long ago, there was worry other insurance companies down here on Earth  GEICO, Progressive, Allstate  might pass State Farm as the No. 1 auto insurer by State Farms 100th birthday.

But nope!

Another wealthy guy down here  his name is Warren Buffett and his parent company owns GEICO  in a speech this spring to his own folk conceded that your mutual company has defied logic and modern capitalism, and that no one in the near foreseeable future will catch State Farm. (You can Google it, G.J. Do you guys Google? Is ol Tom Edison good with an iPad? Does Abe do Wordle?)

Oh, I should also add  as your company expanded across America, it built regional offices. But over the past decade, in whats ended up a great business move, making money while lowering overhead, it has now sold almost all of them, except its Bloomington buildings.

So happy anniversary, G.J.!

I hear theyre having a big wingding in Vegas to celebrate your deed.

Your company today appears to be in good hands with  oh wait, wrong company slogan.

1922 was, if we scroll backward, a big year in B-N, although no one probably realized it then.

The first paved road from Bloomington to Chicago was finished, opening a "new era in transportation," as they hailed it. Today it is called Interstate 55.

For the very first time, 5-year-olds had begun going to school here, too. They called it "kindergarten."

Officials broadened the county's "summer youth agricultural exposition" to undergo a name change to a "4-H Fair." It remains today.

Its also when you gave yourself that birthday present and decided it was time to leave farming and do something else in life ...

... and auto.

... and fire.

And by George, it appears your idea made it.

And with it, Bloomington-Normal, too.

Bill Flick is at bflick@pantagraph.com.

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There are two candidates in the upcoming Republican primary election on June 28 for the 11th Circuit Judge.

Current presiding family law division Judge Amy McFarland received a 90% score in the recent judicial advisory poll of attorneys administered by the Illinois State Bar Association and was recommended for the 11th Circuit Court Judiciary position.

Her opponent that has no judicial experience only scored 54% on the same poll, and according to the ISBA, poll rules was deemed not recommended by his own peer group.

Only Judge Amy McFarland is endorsed by 14retired judges.

It is very clear that the current presiding family law division Judge Amy McFarland should be your choice for the 11th Circuit Court.

Peter Pontius, Bloomington

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I am one of many Illinois voters who support Jesse Sullivan for Governor of Illinois.

Jesse is the one positive candidate in the Republican field for governor. While the other candidates are covering the airwaves and filling our mailboxes with negative messages, Jesse has consistently discussed the issues important to Illinois families. Taxes, crime, corruption and parental involvement in their children's education.

Jesse and his family share our concerns and values. He is one of us.

Please visit jessesullivan.com to learn more about Jesses plan to Save Illinois.

Anne Sagins, Sherman

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Ivorian economist Jean-Claude Brou, president of West Africa's main political bloc, has been nominated by Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara to be governor of the regional central bank, a source familiar with the matter said.



Brou has served as president of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) commission since 2018.



The source said the other members of the bank are expected to formally validate his nomination to succeed another Ivorian, Tiemoko Kone, as governor of the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO), which represents eight regional countries that use the CFA franc currency.



Kone was appointed Ivory Coast's vice president in April, leaving Ouattara the prerogative to name his successor, a senior regional source told Reuters.



A bank spokesperson was not immediately available for comment.













Source: REUTERS









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The Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Saturday began deliberations on the political situation in Mali, Guinea, and Burkina Faso.



The Accra meeting will discuss the latest developments and challenges confronting the three nations after a raft of sanctions placed on them following the overthrow of their constitutionally elected governments.



ECOWAS Chair, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo who opened the meeting, thanked the regional leaders, who have since March 2020, shown a strong commitment to democracy, peace and stability in West Africa.



He said the Accra Extraordinary Summit will continue to focus on the political instability in the region and find lasting solutions to the resurgence of coup d'etat since August 2020.



The President said ECOWAS would find a way to deal and help countries return to constitutional order.



This will allow them to deal better with the security and humanitarian challenges they're facing, in line with our resolute commitment to upholding democratic government and democratic institutions, in the ECOWAS space, as enshrined in our protocol on good governance,  he said.



The meeting, which has since gone into close session, will re-examine and assess the situation in three West African nations in the light of developments within the regional and global context.



Burkina Faso, Mali and Guinea are being ruled by military Juntas, who have suggested terms between 24 and 36 months to relinquish power to civilian authorities.



The three countries have been suspended from ECOWAS, with Mali under the severest sanctions, including financial squeeze, travel bans and border blockade.

Source: GNA









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Ghana's gold extractive industry has matured over the decades, and we applaud the government's measures to develop local capacity, said Gregory Andrews, Australian High Commissioner to Ghana.



He said his country was proud to work hand in hand with Ghana, while it developed the right structures and systems to ensure mining revenues led to economic development and delivered improvements in the living standards of the local people.



Addressing a special session of the Tarkwa-Nsuaem Municipal Assembly's meeting held at Ahwetieso, Mr Andrews in a speech read on his behalf said, over the years, Australian mining and mining services companies had contributed directly to the sector, through job creation, knowledge and skills transfer, revenue generation and corporate social responsibility as well as community development projects.



More importantly, Australia prides itself as a key partner for the Ghanaian government in promoting fair, sustainable, and environmentally friendly mining practices that translate into shared wealth and socio-economic development for mining communities, he stated.



According to the High Commissioner, "Those linkages were amplified when the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Mr Samuel Abu Jinapor addressed a crowd of investors at the Mining Indaba conference in Cape Town two weeks ago, during an Australian Government hosted event.



It was our pleasure to support the Minister's call for foreign investment in developing new minerals in Ghana. Things to stable governance and a highly educated workforce. We believe the right platforms exist to build on the success of Ghana's gold extraction experience".



He said Australia through its various programmes such as scholarship awards, the former International Mining for Development Centre and its successor, the minerals and energy for Development Alliance, the Australia Africa partnership facility and the cadastral administration system at the Minerals Commission was proud to have contributed over the years to the development of mining in Ghana.



Mr Andrews pointed out that "We have also supported skills development in the sector by providing over 500 mining-related courses, scholarships and fellowships in the last decade, including 375 short course awards, delivered by Universities in Africa and Australia on extractive governance through their studies and experiences in Australia our African alumni transfer best practices, knowledge and cutting-edge skills to the mining industry to the huge benefit of their home countries".



He emphasized that in Ghana they were encouraged by the government's commitment to implement the economic and social reforms required to produce jobs and growth.



"It is not by any means an easy balance to attract investment, while at the same time ensuring a fair return for the Nation under whose soil the minerals lie, but it can be done and Australia is a good example of where this can be achieved", he further said.

Source: GNA









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Tunisia's judges will suspend work in courts for a week and hold a sit-in to protest against a purge of their ranks, amid growing tensions over the president's attempts to consolidate one-man rule.



President Kais Saied this week dismissed 57 judges, accusing them of corruption and protecting terrorists in a crackdown on the judiciary - his latest step to tighten his grip on power in the North African country.



Judge Hammadi Rahmani said a meeting of judges on Saturday voted unanimously to suspend work in all courts, and to start the sit-in.



The strike will start on Monday in all judicial institutions and could be extended, Anas Hamaidi, president of the Association of Judges, said.



Last summer, Saied seized executive power in a move his foes called a coup, before setting aside the 2014 constitution to rule by decree and dismissing the elected parliament.



Among the judges fired this week was Youssef Bouzaker, the former head of the Supreme Judicial Council whose members Saied replaced this year.



The council had acted as the main guarantor of judicial independence since Tunisia's 2011 revolution that introduced democracy.



In a session attended by hundreds of judges, some of the dismissed judges said the purge came after they rejected interventions from the justice minister and in some cases from people surrounding the president.



"This injustice will not pass in silence .... These free voices will never be silenced," Hamaidi said. "The attack was not only against judges, but on the law and freedoms."



Rahed Ghannouhci, the speaker of dissolved parliament called in statement for "national forces, parties, civil society, to stand by the judges in resisting the brutal dictatorship to preserve an independent judiciary".



Saied's purge of the judiciary sparked international outrage. Washington accused him of undermining Tunisia's democratic institutions.

Source: REUTERS









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The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has concluded that Ghanas return to constitutional rule in 1993 was a landmark accomplishment in the countrys history worth celebrating.



In view of this, Ghanaians must protect the 1992 Constitution at all times as good citizens to strengthen the peace and stability of Ghana, respect and protection of the fundamental human rights and freedoms of all citizens, Mr. Samuel Etsey Ada West District Director of the NCCE has stated in an interview with the Ghana News Agency at Sege.



According to him, Article 3 (4) of the 1992 Constitution mandate Ghanaians to defend the Constitution and stand against any person, group, or issue that threatens the fabric of Ghanas democracy.



Mr Etsey said the Constitution also mandates Ghanaians to reject the oppressors rule in any form or anything that seeks to disturb the peace and stability of the country.



In our pursuit of liberty, equality of opportunity, and prosperity, we must make it our duty to understand these aspirations to consolidate Ghanas democracy, he stressed.



In pursuit of NCCEs national agenda to build and imbed the tenets of the Constitution in the youth, the Ada West District Directorate has engaged school children in basic schools to mark the 2022 National Citizenship Week celebrations.



The celebration is a platform created to educate the pupils on issues of national concern relevant to the 1992 Constitution.



Mr. Etsey said the celebration among other things reminded the pupils of their core responsibilities as active citizens to play their role to strengthen Ghanas democracy.



He reiterated the need for Ghanaians to put Ghana first in all endeavours, an attitude he said should be inculcated into the Ghanaian child at an early age.



He said this year's celebration was on the theme: Three Decades of Democratic Rule under The 1992 Constitution: Revisiting the Agenda for Constitutional Reforms.



Engaging basic school pupils in the District on the sub-theme; Sustaining Our Democracy: Ghanaian Values in Practice: The Role of the Child, Mr. Etsey indicated.



According to him, it was of great importance for children to develop the spirit of patriotism and respect for core national values such as discipline, trustworthiness, integrity, and loyalty.



He stated that the citizenry needed to tolerate dissenting views to ensure peaceful coexistence and national cohesion as enshrined in the constitution.



He said the Constitution week was one of the flagship programmes of the Commission which was instituted in 2001 to commemorate the coming into force of the 1992 Constitution.



He added that the 1992 Constitution has seen three decades of uninterrupted Constitutional Rule.



"In view of this, the Ada West District office of the NCCE joins other Districts in the country to mark the 30 years of uninterrupted constitutional rule," he added.



The pupils promised to live positive lives to benefit society in the future.



The schools engaged in the Ada West District included; Akplabanya D/A Junior High School (A&B), Agbedrafor D/A Junior High School, Agbedrafor Presby Primary School, Toflokpo D/A Junior High School, and Toflokpo Presby Primary School.



The rest were, Amuyaokope D/A Junior High School, Kpetuhor D/A Basic School, Sege Community School No. 1, Sege Presbyterian Junior High School No. 1and Zion Care International School.



Others were Divine Leadership Academy School, Victory Baptist Experimental School, Sege-Koni D/A Primary School, St. Emmanuel School Complex, and Mountain Kids Academy.

Source: GNA









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The Ada Police Command in the Greater Accra Region has arrested David Ayornu, 31, popularly known as Rapper Bee for slashing the belly of his wife and killing her instantly.



According to residents of Lufenya, near Kasseh in the Ada East District, Ayornu stabbed his wife with a knife in the belly and dragged it multiple times resulting in the outburst of her intestine.



In an interview with the Ghana News Agency, Chief Superintendent Atsu Dzineku, Ada Divisional Commander confirmed the incident and subsequent arrest of the suspect.



He said the District Police Command on Friday, June 03, received information from Nene Glover Ayornu, the Chief of Lufenya, and Mr. Akrofi Mensah the Assembly Member for Amlakpo Electoral Area with two others with a complaint that they heard a loud noise in a nearby room around 0130 hours.



"So, the Chief quickly rushed there because the noise was loud and unusual where he found out that one David Ayornu's wife, identified as Theresa Kwao was lying dead with the intestine gushed out, he said.



According to the Chief, the said David Ayornu was in the same room with the woman when they identified that the woman was stabbed to death, so they came for Police assistance to know who caused that.



Chief Supt. Dzineku noted that Police swiftly rushed to the scene and identified a man believed to be 31-year-old as a suspect.



"Police were shown the room, where a female adult was seen wearing only a bead and a pant lying in a pool of blood with the face down with the intestine out.



He explained that initial inspection of the body revealed that live bones of the chest and the stomach and a sharp knife with blood stains on it were found lying in the room about 2 - feet from the body.



He said photographs were taken and the body was deposited at Health Star Funeral Services near Kasseh for autopsy and preservation at Addokope.



The Ada Divisional Commander explained that the suspect Ayornu had been arrested and taken to the Ada District Hospital, where he was examined and discharged but still in police custody for further investigations.



He said the knife was retrieved and detained with the suspect for the investigation, adding that the Police had commenced investigations into the incident.



Chief Supt. Dzineku stated that it was too immediate to unravel what led to the death of Theresa Kwao.

Source: GNA









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Delegates of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Ekumfi Constituency of the Central Region have elected new executives to steer the affairs of the party for the next four years.



The elections were earlier slated for Friday, May 27, 2022, but were put on hold owing to a court injunction secured by some aggrieved aspirants.



The matter was, however, later settled out of court by the Party and this paved the way for the Regional Election to be held on Saturday, June 04.



The rains set in around 1400 hours just after voting had ended and counting was about to begin, interrupting the peaceful process briefly.



Despite that the euphoria that characterised the exercise did not wane as people jumped and sang in jubilation in the rain spontaneously throughout the counting and declaration of the result.



In all, 26 aspirants contested for 10 positions with 518 delegates voting.



Mr Nana Adu Donkor aka Okumkom was elected Charmian, beating his only contender, Moses Donkor when he bagged 411 votes as against 94.



Mr Ishmael Osam Anderson retained his position as the First Vice Chairman with 318 votes with David Dawson getting only 184.



For the second Vice Chairmanship position, which had four contenders, Mr Ransford Egya Bosomtwe emerged winner with 182 votes, while his closest contender, Mr James Entsie polled 161, Sumaila Awuni and Ato Biney garnered 62 and eight votes, respectively.



The Secretary portfolio saw Mr Jamil Rahman Nyame coming out victorious with 260 votes, while Mr Edward Armah had 228 votes in the close contest.



For the Assistant Secretary position, which had the greatest number of contestants, there was a tie between Messrs. James Ackon and Boutrous Kojo Saah with 140 votes each.



Messrs. Ebenezer Spio Anim, Mustapha Quansah, Isaac Minkah and Barnabas Sam got 108, 46, 38 and 33 votes, respectively.



The position was therefore not declared pending a new date for another voting.



Madam Naomi Aba Adu became the Treasurer with 203 while Alfred Cudjoe polled 160 with Celestina Anderson garnering 145.



The Organiser was grabbed by Ahmed Mustapha Anderson with 332 and his only contender, Mr Albert Augustine Mensah polled 173.



Nana Ansah became the constituency's Youth organiser after garnering 320 votes to beat Mr Samuel Kuntu Takyi who had 185 votes.



The women Organiser race did not appear to be a contest as Madam Araba Woode polled a whooping 388 to beat Ms Kate Nyame who had 119 votes.



The keenest race, Nasara coordinator position saw Nasil Ahmed Anderson winning narrowly with 254 as Madam Mary Andam polled 250.



The newly elected Chairman, Mr Nana Adu Donkor, called for unity among members of the party as the NPP resolved to "break the eight ".



He commended the delegates for comporting themselves and applauded the police for demonstrating professionalism during the exercise.



"I thank the party hierarchy for helping put this together peacefully. There is no winner in this contest. The victory goes for Ekumfi NPP," he said.



"I urge the entire party to emulate the beautiful polls by Ekumfi and go into the national elections peacefully and surely we can break the eight," he added.

Source: GNA









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Mr Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, the Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has advised party members to register for the Ghana Card as it may be the ultimate identification card for the 2024 general election.



Speaking at a ceremony at Bowiri-Kwamikrom in the Biakoye Constituency of the Oti Region, he appealed to the people to secure the Ghana card and vote for the NDC in 2024.



The NDC National Chairman said the New Patriotic Party-led Government had mishandled the economy and made most Ghanaians poorer hence the need to change it in 2024 and bring back the NDC.



The NPP has become a liability on the neck of Ghanaians and the only way to regain our economic freedom is to vote against them come 2024, he said.



He criticised the Government for the economic hardship it had plunged the country into and the high cost of fuel and goods and services in general.



Professor Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang, the 2020 Running Mate to the Flagbearer of the NDC, said Ghanaians had acknowledged the infrastructural achievements of the NDC and its contributions to the health sector, some of which facilitated the treatment of COVID-19 patients during the pandemic.



She said it was time for Ghanaians to make a choice for a productive change.



This is the time to get a good leader to rule the country and it was time we looked at facts and not follow anybody's propaganda, she said.

Source: GNA









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The Asante-Akim South branch of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has marked this years edition of the June 4 Anniversary with a clean-up exercise at the Obogu Constituency in the Ashanti Region.



Members of the party across the constituency joined the executives to clean the streets to mark the day, which also coincided with the 30th Anniversary of the NDC.



The June 4 uprising in 1979, led by former President Jerry John Rawlings, arose out of a combination of corruption, bad governance, frustration among the public, and misunderstanding within the Ghanaian army.



Celebrated every year to mark the revolution, which proponents believed restored probity and accountability, members of the NDC in the Constituency marked the 43rd anniversary with a clean-up exercise in honour of their founder.



Regional executives including Mr Abass Nurudeen, the Regional Communications Officer, Mr Prince Arthur, the Deputy Regional Treasurer, and Mr De-graft Fokuo, a former District Chief Executive, took part in the exercise.



Mr Nurudeen said the NDC was a development-oriented party that had accelerated the countrys growth more than any party under the Fourth Republic.



It had the track record of contributing immensely to infrastructural development in health, education, roads, water and sanitation among others and so deserved another term to serve the good people of Ghana, he said.



Mr Nurudeen entreated members to be proud of the partys achievements and canvass for votes as they stepped up preparation towards 2024.



Mr Ibrahim Musah, the Constituency Chairman, applauded the party faithful for their continuous support to promote party activities and urged them to remain committed to mobilizing the grassroots for victory in 2024.



The NDC remained formidable in the Ashanti Region and targeting 10 seats, including the Asante-Akim South, in the next general election, he said.



He called for a united front ahead of the crucial election in 2024 as the NDC cannot afford to lose because it has a country to rescue from unprecedented mismanagement and corruption.

Source: GNA









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Mr Johnson Asiedu Nketia, the General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), says the annual celebration of the June 4 uprising is to rewrite the wrongs and ensure they are not repeated.



He said although lives were lost through the uprising, the celebration was to reinforce the cause of the uprising and how to prevent such from happening again.



Mr Asiedu Nketia made this known at Nkwanta during the 43rd Annual June 4 celebrations with the Oti Region hosting this years event.



He said the current mismanagement of Ghanas economy and resources, including the issues surrounding the declassification of the Achimota Forest were unacceptable and worrying.



He noted that the country could not be spending money to green the country while the Forest was being 'destroyed.'



Touching on education, Mr Asiedu Nketia called for accountability from the Education Minister, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, regarding allegations surrounding some 1.2 million dollars for a training programme for public school teachers, sponsored by the World Bank.



He said the NDC always spoke against corruption and other activities that led to the June 4 uprising because it did not want the country to experience any coup detat.



Although Former President John Dramani Mahama was expected to grace the occasion, he could not make it. This years celebration coincided with the Partys 30th Anniversary.



Mr Geoffrey Kini, the Nkwanta South Member of Parliament, expressed gratitude to all who attended and urged them to work hard for the victory of the NDC in the 2024 general election.



Other party executives and members in attendance were Mr Samuel Ofusu Ampofo, the National Chairman, Prof Jane Naana Opoku Agyeman, Running Mate for the 2020 elections, Mr Peter Otukono, Deputy General Secretary, Mr Gyampong Kojo, Oti Regional Chairman, and Madam Hellen Adjoa Ntoso, Krachi West MP.

Source: GNA









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Ash covered roads, vegetation and homes in the aftermath of the eruption, but no casualties were initially reported.

A volcano in the eastern Philippines spewed a huge, dark cloud on Sunday, prompting evacuations from ash-covered towns while authorities warned of possible further eruptions.

The blast from Bulusan volcano in the rural Sorsogon province lasted about 17 minutes, sending a grey plume shooting up at least one kilometre (0.6 miles), according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PhiVolcs).

No casualties were reported, but authorities raised the alert level to one on the five-level system, indicating "low-level unrest".

"There was a phreatic eruption of the Bulusan volcano, meaning the explosion was caused by the boiling water under the crater," PhiVolcs head Renato Solidum told local radio DZBB.

A group of 14 hikers and four local guides were midway down the 1,565-metre tall mountain, unaware that an ash cloud was shooting up on the other side of the mountain, civil defence official Leo Ferreras of nearby Barcelona town told AFP by phone.

"All of them got down safe and sound," he added.

The local government of Sorsogon, about 500 kilometres (310 miles) south of the capital Manila, said 10 villages in two towns were affected by the ashfall.

Images of the aftermath showed houses, roads, and trees in Juban town covered in ash, with vehicles struggling to navigate the road due to poor visibility.

Authorities deployed a fire truck to clear the area and residents helped sweep the ash off the roads.

"The evacuation is ongoing there, but our priority is senior citizens and those with asthma," Juban disaster official Dennis Despabiladeras said.

The Manila airport authority said no flights have been affected by the eruption so far, though pilots were warned about coming near the area.

Authorities reminded residents that entry into the four-kilometre radius around the volcano is prohibited and advised those living next to it to be cautious "due to the increased possibilities of sudden and hazardous phreatic eruptions".

Residents near the valleys and rivers were also alerted about the danger of mud and stream flows in the event of heavy rainfall.

Bulusan volcano has been active in recent years, with a dozen similar eruptions recorded in 2016 and 2017.

The Philippines is located in the seismically active Pacific "Ring of Fire" and has over 20 active volcanoes.

Explore further Philippine volcano spews ash and steam, alarms villagers

 2022 AFP
In this still image taken from a Blue Origin broadcast, a Blue Origin New Shepard rocket launches from Launch Site One in West Texas for the company's fifth crewed mission.

Jeff Bezos's company Blue Origin flew six tourists into space for a 10-minute ride Saturday, successfully carrying out its fifth crewed mission.

The white spacecraft called New Shepard lifted off with a roar from a desert spot in west Texas at 8:26 local time (1326 GMT).

The crew hooted with glee as the rocket reached space, a Blue Origin webcast showed.

The flight included engineer Katya Echazarreta, who at 26 became the youngest American woman in space. The Guadalajara native also became the first Mexican-born woman to go into space.

Her spot was sponsored by Space for Humanity, a program which seeks to democratize access to space and selected her from among 7,000 candidates.

The crew also included the first Brazilian to go into space, Victor Correa Hespanha, as well as businessmen Hamish Harding, Jaison Robinson, Victor Vescovo and Evan Dick.

Dick also flew on New Shepard's third crewed flight in December.

Ticket prices are a closely guarded secret.

The gumdrop-shaped capsule holding the crew detached from the rocket once the latter took them into the heavens.

The rocket booster part then eased down vertically, letting off a sonic boom at one point, and landed to be reused.

The capsule kept going up until it crossed the so-called Karman line at an altitude of about 100 km (60 miles), which by international convention is considered the boundary between Earth's atmosphere and space.

At that height the crew experienced weightlessness for a few minutes and could observe Earth's curvature through big windows in New Shepard.

The capsule then fell back to Earth, with three giant parachutes and retro engines helping it make a gentle landing that kicked up a big cloud of dust.

This flight had been scheduled for May 20 but was delayed because of a problem with one of the spacecraft's back-up systems. Blue Origin did not give details of the problem.

Blue Origin is a leading player in the nascent space tourism market.

It flew Bezos on its maiden crewed flight in July 2021, and has also flown Star Trek icon William Shatner and Laura Shepard Churchley, the daughter of the first American in space.

Blue Origin's competitor for this kind of thing is Virgin Galactic.

But since its maiden voyage last July carrying its founder, the business tycoon Richard Branson, the spacecraft has stayed on the ground to undergo modifications.

Explore further Fifth Blue Origin flight scheduled for next week

 2022 AFP
In this photo released by Xinhua News Agency, the Long March-2F carrier rocket carrying China's Shenzhou 14 spacecraft blasts off from the launch pad at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in Jiuquan, northwest China's Gansu Province, Sunday, June 5, 2022. China on Sunday launched the new three-person mission to complete work on its permanent orbiting space station. Credit: Li Gang/Xinhua via AP

China on Sunday launched a new three-person mission to complete assembly work on its permanent orbiting space station.

The Shenzhou 14 crew will spend six months on the Tiangong station, during which they will oversee the addition of two laboratory modules to join the main Tianhe living space that was launched in April 2021.

Their spaceship blasted off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on the edge of the Gobi Desert at 10:44 a.m. (0244 GMT) atop the crewed space flight program's workhorse Long March 2F rocket. Fifteen minutes later, it reached low Earth orbit and opened its solar panels, drawing applause from ground controllers in Jiuquan and Beijing.

The launch was broadcast live on state television, indicating a rising level of confidence in the capabilities of the space program, which has been promoted as a sign of China's technological progress and global influence.

Commander Chen Dong and fellow astronauts Liu Yang and Cai Xuzhe will assemble the three-module structure joining the existing Tianhe with Wentian and Mengtian, due to arrive in July and October. Another cargo craft, the Tianzhou-3, remains docked with the station.

In this photo released by Xinhua News Agency, Chinese astronaut Chen Dong, right, waves as he walks ahead of fellow astronauts Liu Yang and Cai Xuzhe during a sendoff ceremony for the Shenzhou-14 crewed space mission at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwestern China on Sunday, June 5, 2022. China on Sunday launched the new three-person mission to complete work on its permanent orbiting space station. Credit: Li Gang/Xinhua via AP

In this photo released by Xinhua News Agency, from left Chinese astronauts Cai Xuzhe, Chen Dong and Liu Yang wave before a sendoff ceremony for the Shenzhou-14 crewed space mission at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwestern China on Sunday, June 5, 2022. China on Sunday launched a new three-person mission to complete work on its permanent orbiting space station. Credit: Li Gang/Xinhua via AP

The arrival of the new modules will "provide more stability, more powerful functions, more complete equipment," said Chen, 43, who was a member of the Shenzhou 11 mission in 2016, at a press conference Saturday.

Liu, 43, is also a space veteran and was China's first female astronaut to reach space aboard the Shenzhou 9 mission in 2012. Cai, 46, is making his first space trip.

China's space program launched its first astronaut into orbit in 2003, making it only the third country to do so on its own after the former Soviet Union and the U.S.

It has landed robot rovers on the moon and placed one on Mars last year. China has also returned lunar samples and officials have discussed a possible crewed mission to the moon.

China's space program is run by the ruling Communist Party's military wing, the People's Liberation Army, prompting the U.S. to exclude it from the International Space Station.

Chen, Liu and Cai will be joined at the end of their mission for three to five days by the crew of the upcoming Shenzhou 15, marking the first time the station will have had six people aboard.

Explore further China plans to complete space station with latest mission

 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
A rocket carrying three astronauts on a mission to China's new space station was launched Sunday.

Three Chinese astronauts arrived at the country's space station on Sunday, the Chinese space agency for human flights said, the latest stride in Beijing's aim to become a major space power.

The trio blasted off in a Long March-2F rocket at 0244 GMT from the Jiuquan launch center in northwestern China's Gobi desert, reported state broadcaster CCTV.

The team is tasked with "completing in-orbit assembly and construction of the space station", as well as "commissioning of equipment" and conducting scientific experiments, state-run CGTN said Saturday.

The astronauts entered the central module of the Tiangong station at around 1250 GMT, the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) said. The journey took about "seven hours of flight", CCTV reported.

Tiangong, which means "heavenly palace", is expected to become fully operational by the end of the year.

China's heavily promoted space program has already seen the nation land a rover on Mars and send probes to the Moon.

The Shenzhou-14 crew is led by air force pilot Chen Dong, 43, the three-person crew's main challenge will be connecting the station's two lab modules to the main body.

Dong, along with fellow pilots Liu Yang and Cai Xuzhe, will become the second crew to spend six months aboard the Tiangong after the last returned to earth in April following 183 days on the space station.

Chinese astronauts Cai Xuzhe, Chen Dong and Liu Yang (L to R) take part in a ceremony prior to the launch of the Shenzhou-14 mission.

Tiangong's core module entered orbit earlier last year and is expected to operate for at least a decade.

The completed station will be similar to the Soviet Mir station that orbited Earth from the 1980s until 2001.

Space ambitions

The world's second-largest economy has poured billions into its military-run space program, with hopes of having a permanently crewed space station by 2022 and eventually sending humans to the Moon.

The country has made large strides in catching up with the United States and Russia, whose astronauts and cosmonauts have decades of experience in space exploration.

But under Chinese President Xi Jinping, the country's plans for its heavily promoted "space dream" have been put into overdrive.

In addition to a space station, Beijing is also planning to build a base on the Moon, and the country's National Space Administration said it aims to launch a crewed lunar mission by 2029.

The trio carried into space by the Long March-2F rocket on Sunday will stay aboard the Tiangong space station for six months.

China has been excluded from the International Space Station since 2011, when the United States banned NASA from engaging with the country.

While China does not plan to use its space station for global cooperation on the scale of the ISS, Beijing has said it is open to foreign collaboration.

The ISS is due for retirement after 2024, although NASA has said it could remain functional until 2030.

Explore further China plans to complete space station with latest mission

 2022 AFP
A total of 283 firefighters in 65 vehicles, with the help of groups of bystanders, had battled overnight to bring the fire under control.

Residents of a southern suburb of Athens returned to their homes on Sunday after firefighters managed to bring under control a wildfire that had forced them to evacuate the day before, the emergency services said.

"At this point, the fire has been demarcated, the residents are back in their houses," deputy civil protection minister, Evangelos Tournas, told a news briefing.

A substantial number of firefighters remained in the area "and will remain as long as it is needed, while aircrafts will continue dropping water protectively," he said.

A total of 283 firefighters in 65 vehicles, with the help of groups of bystanders, had battled overnight to bring the fire under control.

And two firefighting planes and two helicopters were still in operation early Sunday.

While the fire is in remission, with no burning spots, authorities said they remain on high alert in case it breaks out again.

On Saturday, the Greek Civil Protection agency had issued an emergency appeal via SMS for people to leave the suburb of Ano Voula.

Officials reported no casualties, but four more neighborhoods were evacuated as the wind changed direction and drove the fire front towards the town of Vari later on Saturday evening.

Giorgos Papanikolaou, the mayor of Glyfada, where the fire first broke out, said that it started at a high voltage electricity power station.

Last summer, Greece's most severe heatwave in decades, which authorities blamed on climate change, saw fires destroy more than 100,000 hectares of forest and farmland, the country's worst wildfire damage since 2007.

More than 200 firefighters and technical equipment provided by European Union countries will be soon deployed to Greece to help boost the battle against large wildfires.

Bulgaria, Finland, France, Germany, Romania and Norway will take part in the deployment, coordinated by the EU's Civil Protection Mechanism.

Explore further Greece evacuates Athens suburb under wildfire threat

 2022 AFP
Scientists have now mapped the genome of 828 wild chimpanzees from across Africa, using novel sequencing techniques.

Scientists have produced the first genetic map of chimpanzees in the wild, offering a detailed reconstruction of the endangered species' past migrations, and a new tool to combat illegal trafficking.

The genomic catalogue, which includes 828 individuals from across their vast African range, can now be used to link kidnapped chimpanzeesor their meat and body partsto their place of origin within 100 kilometers.

The results of the years-long research project was published Wednesday in the journal Cell Genomics.

First author Claudia Fontsere of the Institute of Evolutionary Biology in Spain told AFP: "If we can know the genetic diversity of this endangered species, and its past demographic history...this can help design a better conservation plan."

DNA samples were collected from thousands of chimp droppings as part of the Pan African Program at 48 locations across central and western Africa.

Fecal samples are a useful way to study endangered species because they allow for extensive collection with minimal interference to the animals.

But they also present technical challenges because they contain only trace amounts of host DNA.

To overcome these constraints, the team applied a new DNA sequencing technique called "target capture" that was first used to study Neanderthals whose remains have been degraded over thousands of years.

This allowed them to discover 50 percent more variants on a particular chromosomenumber 21than had previously been found, and from this infer past gene flow between chimpanzee populations, plugging gaps in scientific understanding.

Previously, only 59 whole chimpanzee genomes had been sequenced, mainly from captive animals with limited information about their origin.

Complex migrations

Just like humans, chimps have complex migration histories, and the new research allowed the scientists to peer back over the past 100,000 years at a new level of detail.

"There has been a lot of debate on whether the four chimpanzee subspecies truly diverged from one another or whether there has been persistent gene-flow between them," co-lead author Mimi Arandjelovic of the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology told AFP.

"We were able to show, using different analyses methods that look at very old and more recent variation, that the history is complex, much like that of our own species."

The team learned that the chimpanzee subspecies were separated in the past, but also experienced periods of genetic exchangehelping explain why past studies that tried to reconstruct chimps' evolutionary history came to differing conclusions.

They found geographical barriers like lakes and rivers also created genetic barriers between subspecies as well as between communities, and discovered new insights about periods when chimps cross bred with bonobos.

Importantly, they confirmed there was a high level of connectivity between Western chimpanzees, underscoring the need to preserve connections between forests across Western Africa, said Arandjelovic.

Fontsere explained the genetic map could help pinpoint where illegally trafficked chimps had come from.

Though reintroducing the chimps to the wild is a fraught task because of the animals' complex social structure, research has shown they do better when placed in a sanctuary near their place of origin.

"It can help law enforcement to look at the more probable routes, we can trace it back," said Fontsere.

They next hope to improve the genetic map with more samples, and, having proved that fecal DNA is a viable option, extend its use to study other primates.

Explore further New method to pinpoint the origin of illegally traded chimpanzees

More information: Claudia Fontsere et al, Population dynamics and genetic connectivity in recent chimpanzee history, Cell Genomics (2022). www.cell.com/cell-genomics/ful  2666-979X(22)00062-3 Claudia Fontsere et al, Population dynamics and genetic connectivity in recent chimpanzee history,(2022). DOI: 10.1016/j.xgen.2022.100133

 2022 AFP
A view of Piz Bernina.

The famous snow-capped peaks of the Alps are fading fast and being replaced by vegetation covera process called "greening" that is expected to accelerate climate change, a study said Thursday.

The research, published in Science, was based on 38 years of satellite imagery across the entirety of the iconic European mountain range.

"We were very surprised, honestly, to find such a huge trend in greening," first author Sabine Rumpf, an ecologist at the University of Basel, told AFP.

Greening is a well-recognized phenomenon in the Arctic, but until now hadn't been well established over a large scale in mountainous areas.

However, since both the poles and mountains are warming faster than the rest of the planet, researchers suspected comparable effects.

For their analysis, the team examined regions at 1,700 meters above sea level, to exclude areas used for agriculture. They also excluded forested areas and glaciers.

According to the findings, which covered 1984-2021, snow cover was no longer present in summer on nearly 10 percent of the area studied.

Rumpf pointed out that satellite images can only verify the presence or absence of snowbut the first effect of warming is to reduce the depth of the snowpack, which can't be seen from space.

Secondly, the researchers compared the amount of vegetation using wavelength analysis to detect the amount of chlorophyll present, and found plant growth increased across 77 percent of the zone studied.

Vicious cycle

Greening happens in three different ways: plants begin growing in areas they previously weren't present, they grow taller and more densely due to favorable conditions, and finally particular species growing normally at lower altitudes move into higher areas.

"It is climate change that is driving these changes," said Rumpf.

"Warming means that we have longer vegetation periods, we have more benign conditions that foster plant growth, so plants can just grow more and faster," she added.

The effect is additive: "The warmer it gets, the more precipitation falls as rain rather than snow."

And there are several harmful consequences.

First, a large part of drinking water comes from melting snow. If water is not stored as snow, it disappears faster via rivers.

Next, the habitat species adapted specifically to the alpine environment is disrupted.

The snow's disappearance also harms the tourism industry, a key economic driver for the region.

"What we kind of tend to forget is the emotional aspects of these processes that the Alps are like a very iconic symbol and when people think about Switzerland, it's usually the Alps that they think about," stressed Rumpf.

While alpine greening could increase carbon sequestration, feedback loops are more likely to cause a net result of amplified warming, and thawing of permafrost, the researchers argue.

Snow reflects about 90 percent of solar radiation, vegetation absorbs much more, and radiates the energy back in the form of heatwhich in turn further accelerates warming, snow melt, and more vegetation: a vicious cycle.

From green to brown?

The future of the Alps can't be predicted with certainty.

"In terms of snow, it's pretty straightforward," said Rumpf. "I would expect the snow cover to disappear more and more, especially at lower elevations."

For the time being, another phenomenon known as "browning"in which the ground is no longer covered with either snow or vegetationhas only been detected in less than one percent of the area studied.

This is much less than what has been observed in the Arctic, or in the mountains of Central Asia.

It is fueled by two factors: the increase in episodes of extreme rain followed by droughts, and a reduction in water available to plants that was produced by annual snowmelt.

"We do not know for the future whether browning is going to occur more and more," concluded Rumpf, who hopes to repeat the observations in a few years' time.

Explore further The consequences of climate change in the Alps are visible from space

More information: Sabine B. Rumpf, From white to green: Snow cover loss and increased vegetation productivity in the European Alps, Science (2022). www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.abn6697 Journal information: Science Sabine B. Rumpf, From white to green: Snow cover loss and increased vegetation productivity in the European Alps,(2022). DOI: 10.1126/science.abn6697

 2022 AFP
This October 2009 photo provided by The University Of Western Australia, shows part of the Posidonia australis seagrass meadow at Peron Peninsula in Australia's Shark Bay. According to a report released on Wednesday, June 1, 2022, genetic analysis has revealed that the underwater fields of waving green seagrass are a single organism covering 70 square miles (180 square kilometers) through making copies of itself over 4,500 years. Credit: Angela Rossen/The University Of Western Australia via AP

Scientists have discovered the world's largest plant off the Australia coasta seagrass meadow that has grown by repeatedly cloning itself.

Genetic analysis has revealed that the underwater fields of waving green seagrass are a single organism covering 70 square miles (180 square kilometers) through making copies of itself over 4,500 years.

The research was published Wednesday in Proceedings of the Royal Society B.

Scientists confirmed that the meadow was a single organism by sampling and comparing the DNA of seagrass shoots across the bed, wrote Jane Edgeloe, a study co-author and marine biologist at the University of Western Australia.

A variety of plants and some animals can reproduce asexually. There are disadvantages to being clones of a single organismsuch as increased susceptibility to diseasesbut "the process can create 'hopeful monsters'" by enabling rapid growth, the researchers wrote.

The scientists call the meadow of Poseidon's ribbon weed "the most widespread known clone on Earth," covering an area larger than Washington.

This June 2022 photo provided by The University Of Western Australia shows sampling efforts of the Posidonia australis seagrass meadow in Australia's Shark Bay. According to a report released on Wednesday, June 1, 2022, genetic analysis has revealed that the underwater fields of waving green seagrass are a single organism covering 70 square miles (180 square kilometers) through making copies of itself over 4,500 years. Credit: Rachel Austin/The University Of Western Australia via AP

This August 2019 photo provided by The University Of Western Australia shows part of the Posidonia australis seagrass meadow in Australia's Shark Bay. According to a report released on Wednesday, June 1, 2022, genetic analysis has revealed that the underwater fields of waving green seagrass are a single organism covering 70 square miles (180 square kilometers) through making copies of itself over 4,500 years. Credit: Rachel Austin/The University Of Western Australia via AP

This November 2018 photo provided by The University Of Western Australia shows part of the Posidonia australis seagrass meadow in Australia's Shark Bay. According to a report released on Wednesday, June 1, 2022, genetic analysis has revealed that the underwater fields of waving green seagrass are a single organism covering 70 square miles (180 square kilometers) through making copies of itself over 4,500 years. Credit: Sahira Bell/The University Of Western Australia via AP

Though the seagrass meadow is immense, it's vulnerable. A decade ago, the seagrass covered an additional seven square miles, but cyclones and rising ocean temperatures linked to climate change have recently killed almost a tenth of the ancient seagrass bed.

More information: Jane M. Edgeloe et al, Extensive polyploid clonality was a successful strategy for seagrass to expand into a newly submerged environment, Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences (2022). Journal information: Proceedings of the Royal Society B Jane M. Edgeloe et al, Extensive polyploid clonality was a successful strategy for seagrass to expand into a newly submerged environment,(2022). DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2022.0538

 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Child porn to result in prison time

FORT EDWARD  A Fort Edward man is expected to be sentenced on Friday to 1  to 3 years in prison after admitting to possessing child pornography.

Paul R. Wilson pleaded guilty recently in Washington County Court to a felony count of possession of a sexual performance by a child.

Wilson was arrested last August after police found the pornography on a laptop computer, which is a violation of his post-release supervision.

Wilson was released from state prison in January 2020. He served 14 months of an 18-month prison sentence after pleading guilty in Warren County Court in August 2018 to criminal sex act.

Wilson was one of 12 men arrested in 2017 as part of a multi-agency police sting in which officers lured the men online and arrested them after they came to Queensbury for what they thought was a meeting with underage girls.

 Post-Star staff report

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Maple Street fire ruled accidental

GLENS FALLS  The fire that displaced four residents of an apartment building on the corner of Maple and Oak streets was an accidental electrical fire, according to fire personnel.

Glens Falls Fire Lt. Ric Stafford said that there were no injuries reported from the fire.

The call for a reported structure fire at 165 Maple St. came in at about 6 p.m. The apartment building is attached to Hallwear, which is the apparel company of former Mayor Dan Hall.

Fire personnel left the scene at around 9 p.m.

Volunteers from the Northeastern New York Chapter of the American Red Cross provided immediate emergency aid to the four displaced residents following the fire, according to a news release.

The Red Cross also provided financial assistance for things like shelter, clothing and food for four adults.

Bay Ridge Fire Department and Warren County emergency services also assisted on scene.

Hadley day use area will close

HADLEY  The day use area on North Shore Road in Hadley will be closed to the public beginning Monday to allow Brookfield Renewable U.S. to complete routine vegetation work at the Stewarts Bridge Hydropower facility.

The area will be closed from Monday through Thursday and again from Monday, June 13 through Thursday, June 16. The work will be completed that Friday and the day use area will return to normal hours, according to a news release.

The kayak boat launch will remain open and accessible without restriction. Due to weather conditions, this work is subject to change without prior notice. People are advised to use caution and wear a personal flotation device when recreating on or near water. They should pay close attention to their surroundings and respect all signage, sirens and barriers.

 Post-Star staff reports

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LAKE GEORGE  Creating the Lake George Battlefield Park Visitor Center was not a new concept.

It had been advocated for and talked about for over 120 years.

In 1996, Dr. Russell Bellico, a historian who has authored three books about the military and nautical history of Lake George and Lake Champlain, took part in a panel discussion in Lake George.

His topic to discuss was that there should be a visitor center in Battlefield Park. While Lake George has Fort William Henry and the park itself, Bellico noted that other military sites, such as Fort Ticonderoga, had attractions like a visitor center or museum highlighting their significance.

This was the most significant military site in the Lake Champlain and Lake George valley that was undeveloped in terms of historic exhibits, Bellico said. Almost everybody had a visitor center or museum.

The visitor center officially opened on May 25 and will have a dual purpose.

It will serve as your typical visitor center for tourists, but it will also serve as a museum showcasing the importance of Battlefield Park through the years.

Dr. Lyn Karig Hohmann, former president of the Lake George Battlefield Park Alliance, played an integral part in securing grant funding for the artifacts and panels in the exhibit, according to Bellico.

John DiNuzzo, current president of the alliance, said that Bellico was instrumental in getting the center built. DiNuzzo said that Bellico either donated or secured several of the artifacts on display in the museum.

Russ was the brainfather for this, someone who has the brainchild, DiNuzzo said of Bellico.

The museum at the visitor center showcases Battlefield Park throughout the French and Indian War and the Revolutionary War.

Panels describing significant events at Battlefield Park throughout the years are displayed on the walls of the exhibit. Bellico wrote the information that is displayed, and Hohmann secured the funding for the panels from the Saratoga Springs-based Alfred Z. Solomon Charitable Trust.

The exhibit starts from the beginning with the Battle of Lake George, the only substantial victory for the British Army in 1755.

Fort George, one of the forts that was erected at the site, was constructed by the British in 1759. According to one of the panels in the museum, Major General Jeffery Amherst, who was the commander in chief of the British Army in 1759, oversaw construction of the fort.

The visitor center currently has replicas of the forts at Battlefield Park and ships that were used on Lake George. There are also videos playing from the nonprofit organization Bateaux Below, which works to preserve shipwreck sites in Lake George.

Bellico was a part of the preservation of the Land Tortoise, a floating gun battery used during the French and Indian War. He was the underwater photographer for Bateaux Below.

One of the artifacts that was uncovered during the preservation effort was a gunport lid from the Land Tortoise. It was donated to the visitor center by the New York State Museum.

Not only will the visitor center showcase the military history of the park, but it will also aim to highlight the Indigenous peoples who lived on the land in the years prior.

We are going to have those artifacts here. We were just short on money at the time for another (display) case, Bellico said.

The visitor center will also serve as connective tissue for guided tours that are offered of Battlefield Park. Bellico and DiNuzzo said that there are plans for a walkway to be put in at the entrance of the visitor center leading into the park.

There are also plans to bring in more artifacts and exhibitions to the museum, allowing a rotation over time to provide different experiences for visitors.

Battlefield Park has four unknown soldiers from the French and Indian War buried on site. The soldiers were American colonists serving on behalf of Britain in the war, and were reinterred after being uncovered south of Lake George during a road construction project in the 1930s.

DiNuzzo said the Lake George Battlefield Park Alliance is anticipating more than 40 Continental Army soldiers from the Revolutionary War to be reinterred in the park as well.

I think that the reinternment will generate some sprucing up, lets say, including smoothing out the walkways and building more, DiNuzzo said.

Bellico said that the book, The Last of the Mohicans, by James Fenimore Cooper brought a lot of fame to the Lake George area.

In the 19th century, tourists came to Lake George and visited the remnants of Fort William Henry. They also came to Battlefield Park to see what remained of Fort George.

Bellico said that back then, people had a real idea of American history. Today there is more competition in getting the attention of tourists.

Today we have to explain it more, he said. Theres much more competition with theme parks. You can go down to Disney World and places like that. For young people, things like the visitor center help people realize that something actually happened here. Its not just a picnic place.

Jay Mullen is a reporter for The Post-Star covering the city of Glens Falls, Warren County and crime and courts. You can reach him at 518-742-3224 or jmullen@poststar.com.

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Ready to day drink, listen to live music and enjoy themselves, herds of thousands of people walked through Bader Field to where the tents, giant stage and innerworkings of the festival were taking place.

Hosted by Good Time Tricycle Productions, the Atlantic City Beer and Music Festival was held outside at Bader Field for the second year in a row. It has become a staple event for the city, with at least 27,000 people from all over the country expected to flock to the city for beers and bands on Saturdays and Sundays sessions.

Ive been coming to beer fest every year since I was 21, said Jason Rello, 30, an Atlantic City resident. Its a fun time, and it brings people together with beer, music and just having fun.

The beer and music festival focuses on letting people enjoy beers from hundreds of breweries, including local ones, which Rello was especially looking forward to doing since he enjoys trying locally brewed Indian pale ales and lagers.

The festival is done on such a big scale, no one else can compete with it, said Rello while watching a band perform.

Andrew Borrata, of Delaware, said it was his third time coming to Atlantic City for the festival.

The ability to try new beers and hear new bands is great, said Borrata waiting in the fast moving four-laned line to enter the festival.

Borrata said they got lucky with Saturdays sunny weather considering the event was held outside for the second year in a row. Some of his friends preferred the inside convention-like venues where the festival was previously held since they didnt have to worry about the weather, but Borrata said he would enjoy beer fest no matter where it was.

Millie and Moses Espinal, of Belliville, were first-time attendees.

The camraderie brings everyone together, said Moses Espinal, who was attending with 17 friends. It brings people to the city, and different people that love beer together.

The beer festival is sponsored by the Ocean Casino Resort, Golden Nugget Casino, 103.7 WMGM Rocks and several others. Besides brews and booze, the event included a variety of vendors, food, games, cooking seminars, mixology demos and headlining bands, like Alkaline Trio and Thrice, who played at Saturdays session.

Axe throwing by Primitive Axe, a keg-throwing contest by The Yard at Ballys, and stand-up comedy by performers from the Atlantic City Comedy Club were all on the events agenda, too.

There was even a Hops Trot 5k hosted by CK Running and A Good Time Tricycle Productions prior to the festival that started at 10:30 a.m. Participants could walk or run a 3.1 miles along the Boardwalk with eight spots to grab a drink at before stopping at Bader Field.

For festival goers who needed a pit stop, there were Adirondack chairs, hammocks and day beds for lounging in a grassy green field.

Whether they were lounging, drinking or listening to music, seemingly everyone there could be seen reveling in all the annual festival had to offer.

Contact Selena Vazquez: 609-272-7225 svazquez@pressofac.com

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OCEAN CITY  Paul LeBrun said he does not want this story to be about him.

What I want to do, I really want to promote World Central Kitchen, said LeBrun, just back in Ocean City after spending three weeks in Poland close to the border with Ukraine, helping to feed a steady stream of people fleeing the Russian invasion.

Spanish-born chef Jose Andres founded the organization, which grew out of disaster relief efforts in Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria slammed the island in 2017.

Since then, the organization has fed people after storms and fires, including the 2018 Camp Fire in California, as well as feeding stranded cruise ship passengers and people in New York and Washington during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This year, World Central Kitchen has set up numerous sites in Poland along the border with Ukraine. In April, a relief kitchen operated by one of the groups partners in Kharkiv, Ukraine, was struck by a Russian missile, according to multiple news reports.

LeBrun was far away from the conflict. A retired federal worker, he lives in the small town of Red Feather Lakes, Colorado, along with time spent in Ocean City with his girlfriend, Cynthia Hart.

We go back and forth in the summertime, he said of his time spent in Ocean City.

The two communities are separated by 1,645 miles and about 8,240 feet of difference in elevation.

LeBrun, 70, said he also at one point spent about 10 years commuting from Little Egg Harbor Township to New York City, working for the Federal Transit Administration on environmental compliance and historic resource development as part of the reconstruction of the World Trade Center.

Like much of the world, LeBrun watched the humanitarian crisis unfold after Russia invaded Ukraine.

After watching all the refugees coming across the border, I knew I had to do something, LeBrun said. He applied to volunteer with several organizations, including World Central Kitchen, but got impatient after he did not hear back.

So he bought a plane ticket to Poland and made his way to the border, reaching a town called Przemysl (pronounced roughly like Sheh-mih-shuhl, with the accent on the first syllable). The city in the southeast of Poland is a few miles from Ukraine and dates to at least the eighth century.

Biden: US would intervene with military to defend Taiwan TOKYO  President Joe Biden said Monday the U.S. would intervene militarily if China were to

I go there, without any registration with any organization, which is probably a little daring. I was not sure who I was going to work for, LeBrun said.

LeBrun arrived at the train station, knowing no Polish and with a few Ukrainian phrases learned from a few days of lessons. Near the station was the distribution site for the food prepared by World Central Kitchen.

He entered the tent and told the crew he wanted to help. He said he was told to apply at the kitchen tent in a separate location, but to hold on a minute. While waiting, LeBrun said, he began emptying the trash containers and doing the things he could see needed doing.

He was put to work, helping in the cooking tent. There, chefs prepared hot meals for the people getting off the trains, as well as sandwiches and other supplies for their continued journey farther into the European Union.

Most of the people he saw were mothers with young children and senior citizens. The men he saw leaving Ukraine were mostly from other countries. Men ages 18 to 60 have been banned from leaving Ukraine, according to the Washington Post, in anticipation that they may be called to fight. Most of those leaving the country were from eastern Ukraine, where the intense fighting continues. The west, near Poland, is relatively peaceful, LeBrun said.

When he first arrived at Przemysl, he said, a train had arrived from Ukraine.

Le Tour de Downbeach set for June 5 on Absecon Island The 2022 Le Tour de Downbeach Happy Ride is set for June 5 and will take cyclists througho

Thats when it hits you, that these people, they come off the train, trying to get their bearings, they dont speak the language, their children may have been on a train for eight hours, he said. These are people that are leaving their husbands, their sons, their brothers in a war zone and coming across.

At one point, he said, he saw a boy of about 10 who uses a wheelchair. A Polish police officer helped him off the train.

I could see him looking into the eyes of that police officer, LeBrun said. He imagined the boy was wondering if it was going to be OK, but then the boy smiled at the officer, he said.

LeBrun said most volunteers spend about a week. He spent three weeks, mostly in the kitchen.

It was awesome, he said. He added that those few phrases of Ukrainian made a big difference. Even if communication was limited, he could greet people in their own language.

They knew I was trying to speak their language and that was the connection that we had, he said.

In Buffalo, Biden mourns victims, says 'evil will not win' President Joe Biden mourned with Buffalos grieving families on Tuesday, then exhorted the nation to reject what he angrily labeled the poison of white supremacy. He said the nation must reject the lie of the racist replacement theory espoused by the shooter who killed 10 Black people at a supermarket. Biden declared that evil will not win in America. Replacement theory is the idea that white people are being intentionally replaced by people of color. It's another manifestation of the bigotry Biden vowed to confront while running for president. Biden says it was the 2017 white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, and President Donald Trump's ambivalent reaction that drove him to run.

Many of the volunteers were American, he said, with others from throughout Europe and other countries.

He and a few other Americans visited the Ukrainian city of Lviv, spending the night.

You would never think Lviv was in a war zone. It was incredible. It was full of life. Its an incredibly beautiful city, he said.

There were signs of the conflict, including protective coverings on statues and stained glass, with messages that they would be visible again after the victory, and a 10 p.m. curfew in case of shelling.

He encouraged people to learn more at WCK.org, but to especially consider financial help through donate.wck.org.

Often described as a celebrity chef, Andres has restaurants in multiple cities, including Washington and New York, ranging from food trucks to Michelin Guide-rated fine dining. He has been credited with popularizing small-plate dining in America.

Contact Bill Barlow: 609-272-7290 bbarlow@pressofac.com Twitter @jerseynews_bill

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Chinese, Iraqis celebrate Dragon Boat Festival in Baghdad

Xinhua) 13:12, June 05, 2022

BAGHDAD, June 4 (Xinhua) -- The Iraqi-Chinese Friendship Association on Saturday held an event here to celebrate China's traditional Dragon Boat Festival, as part of its efforts to promote cultural exchanges between the two countries.

Attended by Chinese Ambassador to Iraq Cui Wei as well as representatives of Chinese companies based in Iraq and the Iraqi government, the event included a show of Iraqi folk costumes and traditional Iraqi songs, and a presentation about the making of Zongzi, a traditional Chinese delicacy wrapped in bamboo or reed leaves for celebrating the festival.

"We wanted to convey the feeling of love and the Chinese folklore to the Iraqi people, and at the same time we conveyed Iraqi folklore to the Chinese people (in Baghdad)," Haider al-Rubeiy, head of the Iraqi-Chinese Friendship Association, told Xinhua during the celebration.

Al-Rubeiy also expressed his expectation that Iraqi public universities will make Chinese language learning available due to the importance of the Chinese language.

Wang Lizihao, an employee of the Shanghai Electric Group Co., LTD Iraq Branch, volunteered to teach Iraqis how to make zongzi during the event. "When I participated in the Dragon Boat Festival in Iraq, which is located thousands of miles away from my country, I felt warm," he told Xinhua.

"I want the Iraqi people to understand what the Dragon Boat Festival is, why they eat Zongzi at the Dragon Boat Festival, and how to make it," said Sajjad al-Qazaz, a young member of the friendship association, who works as a Chinese language teacher.

"I think we should increase cultural exchange activities so that more Iraqis can understand Chinese traditional culture, which is a great culture," he said, noting the friendship between Iraq and China has a long and deep history.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Bianji)
An Eldridge woman charged with multiple counts of child endangerment and accused of selling marijuana out of her garage made her first appearance Monday in the Scott County Courthouse.

Teisha Marie Jacobi's preliminary hearing will be held at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 21. She also requested to be represented by a public defender.

Eldridge Police conducting an on-going drug investigation arrested Jacobi early Saturday for allegedly peddling marijuana out of her garage.

Jacobi, 40, is charged with four counts of child endangerment as well as one count each of possession of a controlled substance with the intent to deliver, conspiracy to sell marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and violation of Iowas drug tax stamp law.

According to a news release from Eldridge Police Chief Joe Sisler, at 6 a.m. Saturday officers served a search warrant at a home in the 200 block of West Central Drive.

Officers found four children under the age of 18 in the home.

In the common garage officers seized 424 grams of marijuana as well as numerous items of drug paraphernalia.

According to the arrest affidavit, in a post-Miranda interview Jacobi admitted to holding and selling the drugs from her home with another person.

Jacobi was released Saturday from the Scott County Jail after posting bond through a bonding company.

Reporter Tom Loewy contributed to this story.

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In a 4-3 decision, the Iowa Supreme Court has in effect lowered the bar for workers compensation claims by emergency responders to receive benefits for trauma-induced mental injuries suffered on the job.

The decision was released Friday with Chief Justice Susan Christensen and Justices Brent Appel, Dana Oxley and Matthew McDermott siding with the appellant, Mandy Tripp. Justices Tom Waterman, Edward Mansfield and Christopher McDonald dissented.

The case was brought by Tripp, who began her career as an emergency dispatcher for the Davenport Police Department, and who later transitioned to the Scott County Emergency Communications Center when dispatching in Scott County was consolidated.

According to the case, Tripp was a 16-year veteran of the dispatch center when on the morning of Sept. 30, 2018, she answered a 911 call from a woman screaming at a very high pitch, Help me, my baby is dead. Help me, my baby is dead, over and over and over.

The screaming continued for 2 minutes and 15 seconds. Tripp struggled to calm the women enough to get an address to dispatch an ambulance. She ultimately got an address and transferred the call to a medical dispatcher who tried to instruct the mother on lifesaving measures until the ambulance arrived.

Tripp continued to hear ongoing radio traffic about the incident after she transferred the call. She heard the medical dispatcher tell the mother how to perform CPR on an infant. She heard the emergency medics who arrived by ambulance at the scene say that rigor was already set in. And she heard police officers talking about a potential crime scene at the mothers home.

Injuries to the childs face, according to one investigating officer speaking over the radio, suggested that the child had been beaten with a claw hammer. All the while, the childs mother screamed in the background. Tripps supervisor asked Tripp if she needed a break. Tripp declined, responding that she needed another call to get the mothers screams out of my head.

An autopsy and subsequent investigation by Davenport Police revealed the childs death was accidental suffocation.

Although she had taken emergency calls involving serious injuries to children in the past from people at the scene of fatal incidents, including three calls involving a dead infant, she had never before answered a call from a dead childs own mother. Tripp described the mothers screams as something beyond normal sounds: guttural, awful.

Tripp went through counseling and was eventually diagnosed by a mental health counselor, a psychologist and a psychiatrist as suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD.

Tripp eventually filed an application for workers compensation benefits based on her PTSD, but it was denied, despite her mental health counselors saying that her PTSD was caused by that one phone call.

The deputy workers compensation commissioner said that dispatchers routinely took calls involving death and traumatic injuries, and that Tripp failed to prove that the PTSD-inducing call was unusual or unexpected as required under the Iowa courts prior mental injury cases.

That ruling was upheld by the workers compensation commissioner and the Scott County District Court.

Tripp's appeal went to the Iowa Supreme Court.

Writing for the majority, McDermott said the majority found that Tripps PTSD diagnosis qualifies as a personal injury under the current statute.

The majority also found that Tripps PTSD arose out of and in the course of her employment as an emergency dispatcher.

The way the district court interpreted the Iowas workers compensation statute would put emergency dispatchers, paramedics, police officers and firefighters at a disadvantage compared with other workers.

Emergency responders would have to prove hyper-unexpected causes and hyper-unusual strains above and beyond the perilous events that they regularly confront to qualify for benefits that those in less hazardous professions receive by meeting a lower bar.

Christensen said in her concurrence that Iowas legislature adopted a statute similar to Minnesotas law that said that a diagnoses of PTSD was taken as fact as being caused by the first responders job, unless it could be proved otherwise.

Waterman said in his dissent that substantial evidence supported the commissioners factual determination that Tripps phone call with the hysterical mother was not an unexpected event for an emergency dispatcher, as other witnesses testified.

We are required to affirm the agencys determination under our deferential standard of review. The majoritys ill-advised change to the legal causation element in mental injury claims opens the floodgates to fraudulent claims that are difficult to disprove and will drive up the cost of doing business in Iowa.

Waterman said the majority overrules our case law that required employees claiming purely mental injuries to show that the triggering event was sudden, traumatic and unexpected in their occupation.

First, Waterman said, the majoritys new holding begs the question: unexpected compared to what? As the district court noted, the Commissioner must first establish a baseline of what is expected or usual by looking to the claimants occupation. What is expected or unexpected necessarily varies by occupation.

Witnessing a death on the job would be unexpected for most occupations; not so for a hospice nurse. Police, firefighters and medics routinely face life-threatening emergencies as part of the job.

Waterman said the majority relied on a flawed premise: that first responders couldnt recover for their purely mental injuries under current case law because stressful emergencies were part of the job.

The majority, he said, wants an easier path for mental disability benefits for emergency workers, including 911 operators who are not physically present at the crime or accident scene.

Such a policy should be left to the legislature, which for has left the case law regarding the same-or-similar-job proof requirement intact.

Waterman also said that agency fact finders applying Iowa case law had repeatedly allowed first responders to recover for purely mental injuries triggered by specific events.

The bar is not set too high, he said.

Waterman said the stress of Tripps phone call was not unusual or unexpected for an emergency dispatcher.

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SPRINGFIELD  Just weeks before the primary election, U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin said he is "worried" about the unity of the state's Democratic Party as competing factions battle for control of the party apparatus.

Durbin expressed his concern in an interview with Lee Enterprises after voting early Saturday morning in Springfield alongside congressional candidate Nikki Budzinski.

"I am worried about it," Durbin said. "We should be together as a party and we ought to say to Robin Kelly, 'job well done, you deserve another term.' I wish all the elected officials could say that to her and put this behind us."

Kelly, a congresswoman from south suburban Matteson, was elected party chair by the Illinois Democratic State Central Committee in early 2021 following the resignation of longtime chair Michael Madigan.

Kelly won 51.65% of the weighted votes of the 36-member committee compared to 48.35% for Chicago Ald. Michelle Harris.

Kelly was endorsed by Durbin, while Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Sen. Tammy Duckworth backed Harris.

Kelly, the first woman and first Black state party chair, announced last month that she is running for a full four-year term. The party chair is elected via a weighted voted of the party's state central committee, whose members will be elected in this month's primary election. A vote would likely come soon after.

"We should be unified behind her leadership because she's done the job," Durbin said. "She worked hard, she achieved things we haven't seen in decades in the state party."

Kelly is currently the only announced candidate.

However, concerns have lingered over Kelly's ability to serve effectively in the role. As a federal officeholder, she is barred from raising or controlling soft money used in state and local races.

Pritzker, when asked earlier this week, would not say if he backed Kelly's bid, but insisted that Democrats "are unified" heading into November.

"My focus is on electing Democrats up and down the ticket, not only making sure on June 28 that we have our incumbents re-elected but also in November," Pritzker said.

Beyond the November election, party unity will be crucial moving forward given Chicago's bid to host the 2024 Democratic National Convention and the effort to make Illinois among the influential early presidential primary states that year and beyond.

However, some signs of division linger.

In the 15th Congressional District, Pritzker appears to be backing lobbyist Liz Brown-Reeves' bid for the state central committee. He donated $20,000 to her campaign last week.

The Sangamon County Democratic Party, chaired by Durbin ally Bill Houlihan, endorsed Adams County Democratic Party Chair Katherine Daniels for the slot. An attempt to rescind the endorsement last week was unsuccessful.

Though the party's committeepeople, one man and one woman from each congressional district, need to be elected first, Durbin said he hoped Pritzker would support Kelly when the vote eventually comes up.

"I wish he would support her," Durbin said. "He of course has to make his own decision. But, a unified party is in the best interest not only of the state, but in the best interest of his re-election."

One candidate Durbin and Pritzker undoubtedly agree on his Budzinski, the Democrat running in the central and southern Illinois-based 13th Congressional District.

Budzinski, a former senior adviser to Pritzker's campaign who later held the same title in his administration, was endorsed by her former boss on Wednesday.

Durbin, an early backer of Budzinski, attended an early voting event her campaign put on Saturday morning. About 30 people attended.

"This is a really big day for our campaign, not just because this is the first time I'm getting the chance to vote for myself for Congress, which is really exciting, but we're kicking off canvasses and weekends of action  so just a lot of field activity," Budzinski said.

Budzinski faces Champaign financial planner David Palmer in the Democratic primary. Four Republicans are running for the seat as well.

Asked about the crisis of mass shootings in the United States, Budzinski said she would support universal background checks, red flag laws and increased funding for mental health services.

"Mental health gets talked about a lot, but I think we need to stop paying just lip service to that and really put meaningful investment behind that," Budzinski said.

Budzinski said she would seek to find consensus on the topic despite acknowledging the difficulty in attaining it.

"So I think we need to take a step back, we need to find the issues where we are in consensus where the majority of Americans support these issues and really meaningfully address gun violence," she said. "We do need to be doing that."

Durbin, the majority whip in a 50/50 Senate, said any package "is likely to be limited" since it would require at least 10 Republican votes to get past the 60-vote filibuster threshold.

But, he "thinks we are reaching a tipping point in this country" on the issue.

"When we've reached the point where it is not safe to be in a hospital, where it's not safe to send your kids to school or it's not safe to go grocery shopping on a Saturday ... you say to yourself, 'this is out of control,'" Durbin said.

"I hope that even if we don't get a lot done now, we can set the stage for a more serious conversation after the election," he said.

Contact Brenden Moore at 217-421-7984. Follow him on Twitter: @brendenmoore13

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Federal lawmakers from Illinois are calling for a Department of Justice investigation into Thomson prison, about an hours drive up the Mississippi River from the metro. We hope it starts immediately.

The call to action comes just days after a report from NPR and the Marshall Project, a nonprofit focused on criminal justice issues, which details conditions in the prison that make Shawshank look like a vacation resort.

The findings at Thomson include:

 Correctional officers intentionally pairing inmates together who are known to attack each other

 Staff encouraging assaults against sex offenders and informants

 Prolonged shackling that leaves scars known as the "Thomson tattoo"

 The presence of a "torture room," where men would lie shackled to a bed for hours in their own urine and feces without food or water

 An incident in which staff laughed and joked at Jewish man they were guarding as he lay dying in a hospital. The assault occurred after staff placed him in a recreation cage with known white supremacists.

Seven men have died at the prison in the past two years. Thomson has the highest rate of use of pepper spray in the entire Bureau of Prisons.

The union representing guards said its unaware of any of the incidents detailed in the Marshall Project report, but was quick to point out the prison has been understaffed.

Its not a new problem. Last year, the prison began offering a 25% retention bonus after a year on the job, a move that had been in the works since 2019. Its not been enough to solve the prisons staffing problem.

Thomson has 105 openings for a staff that guards 929 inmates, 727 of whom are kept in maximum security. Eight percent of the inmates are kept in restricted housing, a term that often refers to solitary confinement.

Clearly, being understaffed is no excuse for the kind of horrific behavior chronicled in the Marshall Project report. Our own reporting, from family members of the prisoners inside, largely corroborates the allegations.

To us, almost as horrific as the abuse happening at the prison, is the notion that its being done by local people. Many Quad-Citians, work at Thomson, after all.

We agree an immediate investigation is warranted.

Last week, U.S. Sens. Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill.; Dick Durbin, D-Ill.; and U.S. Rep. Cheri Bustos, D-Moline; sent a letter to the U.S. Inspector General Michael Horowitz, demanding a Justice Department probe.

We hope the Justice Department acts soon. The horror show uncovered at Thomson must stop, and the people responsible must be held accountable.

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Pops Market on Grace officially closed last week to begin converting to the owners third Buttermilk + Honey location.

Husband-and-wife team Kimberly Love-Lindsey and Mike Lindsey  who own Lillie Pearl up the street  bought Pops Market from Josh and Patti Wright last year. The feel-good, mom-and-pop market at 415 E. Grace St. sold everything from homemade linguine to classic Cuban sandwiches.

Its just a hot corner, Lindsey said. I think itll add to whats happening downtown and create another avenue for a great guest experience while being downtown.

The couple had already been looking for a location for their third Buttermilk + Honey location when they decided to convert Pops Market, Lindsey said. Being across the street from Secret Sandwich Society, a bustling sandwich and burger concept, impacted the traffic at Pops. Lunch, especially, was not sustainable for profit for both the previous and current owners, he said.

Once the new Buttermilk + Honey spot opens, it would add to their Short Pump and Hatch Local Food Hall locations.

The couple said the key to Buttermilk + Honeys success was putting an emphasis on what they called chicken love.

I think a lot of people have great chicken sandwiches in Richmond, great chicken sandwiches all over the United States, he said, but I think what we bring  with those nine to 10 different sandwiches  is just a consistency in the taste that no one else has.

The new location will have some equipment rearranged and additional staff hired before tentatively opening during the last week of June, he said. Lindsey said the couple is looking to expand to Midlothian or Chesterfield with hopes to eventually have spots all over Central Virginia.

The best part is that fried chicken speaks to so many different demographics, Love-Lindsey said.

It kind of just appeals to everyone, which I think is super cool, she said. Were not just stuck with one age group or one demographic that were reaching. Fried chicken is just a good thing to have, so its definitely that comfort food that speaks to a lot of people.

In addition to the Buttermilk + Honey locations, the couple owns Lillie Pearl at 416 E. Grace St., Jubilee at 1303 Hull St., Bully Burger located in Hatch Local Food Hall and ML Steak Modern Chophouse which will open at 326 E. Broad St., all of which fall under Lindsey Food Group.

The team said theyre looking forward to the growth and development of Richmonds food scene, Love-Lindsey said.

Were really excited about just seeing that growth and the great representation of what Richmond really is, she said. I think theres a lot of growth and potential. People are saying that Richmond is becoming a very big food city, and I think it can only get better at this point.
A barrage of gunfire Friday night at a graduation party in a Chester neighborhood left six people shot, one fatally, Chesterfield County police said.

More than 50 shots were fired during the shootings in the area of Stepney and Weybridge roads around 10:21 p.m.

Taborri J. Carter, 20, of the 21100 block of Baileys Grove Drive in South Chesterfield, was given emergency aid by officers but died at the scene from his injuries, police said.

The five other shooting victims, all males, suffered injuries that do not appear to be life-threatening. Two females suffered non-firearm-related injuries when struck by a vehicle as they fled the scene, Chesterfield Police Major Brad Badgerow said.

He said police have identified four different calibers of shell casings at the scene.

Whether that means it was four people shooting, I cant tell you that. But it looks like there were at least four different weapons that were firing.

The party attracted revelers from Richmond and the Tri-Cities area. The gunfire-injured victims, ages 16-21, were from Chesterfield, Hopewell, Dinwiddie County and Prince George County. They left the scene and went to area hospitals or other locations before police arrived, Badgerow said.

Badgerow said his understanding was that the party was for a student at Thomas Dale High School, which is a couple of miles from the house. The department had received at least three complaints about loud music at the party, he said, but officers were busy responding to other calls, including a suicidal teenager, a motor vehicle accident, auto theft, a disturbance at a group home and a reported abduction. But then, obviously, when the shots fired came in is when we left the other stuff pretty quickly and showed up, Badgerow said.

Police found out afterward that prior to the shootings, there were two separate fights or disturbances between females, he said. One was broken up, and then soon afterward, another fight started. And then very shortly after that is when the shots fired call came in, Badgerow said.

When asked if police could have done anything earlier in the night to prevent the party from getting out of control, he said: I think if we had a crystal ball and we knew what was going on, then we might have been able to do something else. But under the circumstances, we need to go on the priority calls, and thats what we did. And when this one became a priority, we were there.

Chesterfield police are asking anyone with information about the shootings to contact the department at (804) 748-1251 or through Crime Solvers at (804) 748-0660 or the P3 Tips app.

We know there are people out there who know what happened, said Badgerow, adding that 50 to 100 people were at the party, many underage. Parents, if you know that your kids were out last night and youre not quite sure where they were or youre a little suspicious about what might be going on, wed like to ask for your help.

Check with your kids. Engage with them. See what they were doing. And give us a call if you have any information that can help us with this.

He also asked for people to send in any relevant cellphone video, security camera footage or Ring doorbell video.

Earlier, Badgerow had shown a screen grab of an Instagram invitation to the party, which had advertised a jersey theme. The invite billed the party as NO DRAMA.
Parents will now be able to preregister for prepaid debit cards that will aid families in buying baby formula amid the ongoing shortage.

Urban Baby Beginnings, a nonprofit that supports pregnant and parenting families, will be distributing prepaid debit cards to those who preregister through its website at https://urbanbabybeginnings.org, according to a news release from Richmond City Hall. The organization has served families in the region for over 27 years. The link to register is set to go live on Monday.

After Mayor Levar Stoney announced last month that the city of Richmond and the Robins Foundation would be donating $45,000 in an initiative to combat the shortage, Feed More, the Community Foundation for a greater Richmond, the Bob and Anna Lou Schaberg Foundation, the Mary Morton Parsons Foundation, the Richmond Memorial Health Foundation and the Jackson Foundation joined to provide an additional $135,000.

Urban Baby Beginnings will have access to $180,000 in city funds to purchase and distribute prepaid debit cards to those who cant afford formula.

This swift and generous response by our philanthropic and community partners is a testament to our shared commitment to working together to lift up Richmonders in a time of need, and Im deeply grateful for their support and Councils quick action to make this happen, Stoney said in the release.

Supply disruptions, staffing shortages and safety recalls are all to blame for the shortage.

My administration remains engaged with industry leaders on their production capabilities, and the Virginia Department of Heath is working to ensure that there are adequate supplies of baby formula statewide, Gov. Glenn Youngkin said in a statement. Additionally, my administration has asked the FDA to utilize all resources to get the U.S. plant back into production as quickly as possible. Simply put, acquiring baby formula shouldnt be a challenge in the United States.

Urban Baby Beginnings also offers information about mental health providers, doula services, lactation specialists and more to families and parents in Newport News, Norfolk, Petersburg, Virginia Beach and Richmond.
As an angler on the south bank of the James River tugged her line nearby, Josh McDonough fished a Heineken beer bottle out of the water with his trash grabber, as his wife, Becky McDonough, cheered him on.

The McDonoughs were among approximately 100 volunteers wielding trash grabbers and garbage bags as they removed bottles, cans, cigarette butts, fishing line and other debris at Ancarrows Landing and along the adjacent Richmond Slave Trail as part of Clean the Bay Day, in conjunction with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.

This is our community. This is where we live. Its the world overall, Becky McDonough said. We should be taking care of it.

Its getting there, for sure, her husband said. And, indeed, the freshly mowed greenspace was looking downright pristine, with no litter in sight.

It was a scene replicated across Virginia on Saturday as more than 3,000 volunteers  on foot and by boat  removed 65,500 pounds of litter as part of the cleanup, an annual event since 1989 that has been curtailed the past two years because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Saturdays cleanup took place at nearly 200 sites over an estimated 250 miles of shoreline and trails. Since its inception, the cleanup has picked up about 7.1 million pounds of debris from over 8,000 miles of shoreline in Virginia, according to the foundation.

Ancarrows Landing is named for Newton Ancarrow, a speedboat builder who became an unlikely advocate for the cleaning of the James during the 1960s.

Its a very precious site in Richmond for anglers and people who want to know all the citys history, good and bad, said Peggy Sanner, Virginia executive director of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.

Its growing popularity had been accompanied by a growing litter problem.

It was pretty gross upon her arrival Saturday morning, said Megan Garland, who is taking a class by the foundation and studied marine biology and coastal zone management in college.

One of her wishes was for people not here for this, seeing us out here cleaning up, wondering what were doing ... just getting people to think about that.

Teresa Weaver was among the volunteers from C&F Bank participating in the cleanup, along with her teenage daughters, Riley and Raegan.

Anything we can do to give back to the communities we serve is important to us, she said.

Aaron Armwood, a merchandising manager for PepsiCo, thought the cleanup would be a good opportunity for a family activity while giving back to the community.

The cleanup had Armwood, for the first time, walking the trail that enslaved Africans marched upon their arrival at Manchester Docks. As he and his family cleared the trail of bottles, food wrappings and other debris, he took stock of its legacy.

I try to keep things in perspective, he said. Its a piece of history. Its still something we in this country have to face and deal with.

But, being here, for a good purpose  Ill take that.
The 50th anniversary of the Watergate arrests is approaching: The first break-in at Democratic National Committee headquarters was on May 28, 1972, but the botched return on June 17 produced arrests and eventually brought Richard Nixons presidency to a premature end on Aug. 8, 1974.

The Washington Posts Margaret Sullivan has what is sure to be a popular opinion: Had Watergate played out in todays media environment, Nixon would have survived. Im not so sure.

There are many issues involved  the media, Congress, overall partisanship, and the nature of Nixons crimes and presidency. Yes, todays news environment is very different from that of the early 1970s, which was the peak of neutral media  that is, news organizations whose journalists explicitly thought of themselves as neutral.

This doesnt mean that they were truly neutral; no such thing is possible. But their biases were different from those of the explicitly partisan press of the 19th century  and the revived partisan press that has become far more important, especially on the Republican side, in the 21st century.

It also was the peak of broadcast television, with the vast majority of TV viewers tuned in day after day and night after night. People watched the network evening news because there werent many other options.

But Watergate wasnt really a media story. Sure, the reporting was important. Yet the big breakthroughs in the investigation came from career prosecutors in the Department of Justice, the special prosecutors who took over the investigation in 1973, and Senate and House committees.

Good investigative reporting broke stories, and those reports helped keep the pressure on the White House and Nixons campaign committee. But a lot of the pressure was internal, as various players who had committed a series of crimes attempted to shift the blame and find some set of someone-elses to take the fall.

True, there was no significant Republican-aligned media to either ignore the whole thing or to blame Democrats for it. Its not clear, however, how much of a difference that really makes.

Fox News and other Republican-aligned media already were in place during former President George W. Bushs second term. Yet his approval ratings dropped below 40% when things went bad in Iraq  and below 30% when recession hit. Granted, thats not the same thing as scandal.

As for former President Donald Trump, its hard to be certain of where his approval ratings should have been based only on questions of peace and prosperity. But it certainly appears economic conditions would have predicted solid approval ratings right up to the pandemic-induced recession in 2020. Instead, Trumps approval ratings fell well below 40% in his opening months, and recovered only to the low- to mid-40s for most of the remainder of his presidency.

What else can the Trump experience tell us? Like Nixon, Trump was unable to prevent a special prosecutor from being named to investigate him. But the course of the investigation was different.

By the time Robert Mueller was named special counsel in 2017, it was clear Trump had welcomed Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election and he had almost certainly obstructed justice. Thats essentially what Mueller found. In 1973 and 1974, by contrast, regular disclosures made the crimes of Watergate look worse and worse.

When the Ukraine scandal broke in 2019, Democrats moved toward impeachment fairly quickly, and put little effort into pushing for an independent counsel. The same happened with Trumps effort to overturn the 2020 election  which, of course, still could wind up producing indictments of high-ranking officials, including the former president. At any rate, while Trump escaped conviction twice, the second time was hardly a sure thing, with seven Republican senators joining every Democrat in finding Trump guilty.

The Watergate scandal unfolded slowly, and revelations continued right up to Nixons resignation in August 1974 (in fact, they continued for years after, since it took decades for all the White House tapes to be released). This was important not only because it made for a worse media narrative. It also is important because for two years, Nixon had asked Republicans in Congress to trust him  only to have them find out he had lied.

Trump certainly lies frequently and enthusiastically. But with regard to his scandals, his lies mainly were about things that already were known. And Trump never really asked congressional Republicans to trust him.

He did, however, deliver on what congressional Republicans cared about: judicial nominations and a tax cut. In other words, he mainly deferred to them on policy  in contrast to Nixon, who had also failed to campaign for congressional Republicans in 1972.

Would Nixon have survived in todays conditions? One never can be sure. Partisan polarization surely would have made impeachment and conviction somewhat less likely, and therefore his resignation as well.

Indeed, partisan polarization makes it much less likely that any president would treat Congress the way that Nixon did. But the same scandal might well have evolved in the same way, and I dont see any reason to be confident the outcome would have been different.
FUKUOKA, Japan  Telesurgery, where, for example, surgeons in urban areas remotely perform surgery on patients in rural areas, is heading toward practical use in Japan.

Behind this is the further advancement of telecommunications technology, which has made it safer to manipulate surgical robots from a distance.

The innovative medical procedure is particularly promising for rural residents because it will allow advanced surgeries to be performed even in areas with few surgeons.

There remain, however, issues on ensuring patients safety, so the Japan Surgical Society aims to publish guidelines for performing telesurgery by the end of this year.

In March, Kyushu University conducted a telesurgery demonstration by connecting its affiliated hospital in Fukuoka with another affiliated hospital in Beppu, Oita Prefecture, about 100 kilometers away.

At Kyushu University Beppu Hospital, a monitor displayed an animal placed on an operating table at the hospital in Fukuoka. The animal was used to create a situation similar to human surgery.

I will make the incision in this area, a surgeon in Beppu said as he gripped both hands to manipulate a surgical robot in Fukuoka.

On the operating table, the scalpel attached to the end of the robotic arm moved delicately as the surgeon in Beppu moved his hands. A surgeon in Fukuoka also took turns operating the robot, and a kidney was removed from the animal in about an hour.

Manipulating the robot was university associate professor Junichi Inokuchi, who said: It did not feel distant. It was smooth.

Last year, Kyushu University conducted a test to control a medical robot remotely by connecting with Hokkaido University and Sapporo Medical University. Hirosaki University in Aomori Prefecture is also engaged in similar tests for telesurgery.

Universities started to focus research on telesurgery after The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare revised guidelines for online medical care in 2019. The guidelines set forth a policy to put telesurgery into practical use.

The current situation was prompted by the development of communications technology.

Although research on the technology has been conducted for about 20 years, concerns about communication delays had not been completely resolved because vast amounts of data need to be exchanged.

Communication delays could cause life-or-death problems. For example, in the case of sudden bleeding, if there is a large time lag between the surgeons manipulation and the robots movements, it could lead to massive blood loss.

Kyushu University received the cooperation of NTT West Corp. to provide a high-speed communications line for its tests, confirming that the time lag between the surgery room and the robot console was about five milliseconds, even over a distance of about 100 kilometers.

Surgical robots are becoming popular particularly in laparoscopic surgery for cancer.

Besides the da Vinci surgical systems made in the U.S., domestically produced surgical robots have also appeared in recent years.

Kyushu University used in its March test a robot under development by Riverfield Inc., a startup launched by the Tokyo Institute of Technology.

In the case of problems such as communications being interrupted, the surgery can be continued locally.

There is always a primary doctor next to the patient, said Eiji Oki, an associate professor at Kyushu University. The experienced specialist surgeon remotely assists the primary doctor in performing the surgery.

He said even telesurgery requires a primary doctor and other medical staff onsite who have the skills to carry out the surgery.

The Japan Surgical Society is working with telecommunications carriers and lawyers to create guidelines on telesurgery, which will specify requirements for the telecommunications environment, careful explanations of the benefits and risks to patients and how to deal with problems that may arise.

After the society releases the guidelines, telesurgery will enter the phase of clinical use for human patients mainly at university hospitals.

It is important that staff at the location of the surgery and remote surgeons communicate with each other and prepare for various problems that may occur, said Satoshi Hirano, a professor at Hokkaido University involved in compiling the guidelines.
SEOUL, South Korea  President Joe Biden is tending to both business and security interests Sunday as he wraps up a three-day visit to South Korea, showcasing Hyundais pledge to build a $5.5 billion electric vehicle and battery factory in Georgia and visiting U.S. and South Korean troops monitoring the rapidly evolving North Korean nuclear threat.

The major U.S. investment by a South Korean company, which was formally unveiled in Georgia on Friday, is a reflection of how the U.S. and South Korea are leveraging their longstanding military ties into a broader economic partnership.

The U.S. president has made greater economic cooperation with South Korea a priority, saying on Saturday that it will bring our two countries even closer together, cooperating even more closely than we already do, and help strengthen our supply chains, secure them against shocks and give our economies a competitive edge.

The pandemic and Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February has forced a deeper rethinking of national security and economic alliances. Coronavirus outbreaks led to shortages of computer chips, autos and other goods that the Biden administration says can ultimately be fixed by having more manufacturing domestically and with trusted allies.

Biden's meeting Sunday with Hyundai's Euisun Chung comes after the president made an earlier stop at a computer chip plant run by Samsung, the Korean electronics giant that plans to build a $17 billion production facility in Texas.

Hyundai's Georgia factory is expected to employ 8,100 workers and produce up to 300,000 vehicles annually, with plans for construction to begin early next year and production to start in 2025 near the unincorporated town of Ellabell.

But the Hyundai plant shows that there are also tradeoffs as Biden pursues his economic agenda.

The president earlier in his term tried to link the production of electric vehicles to automakers with unionized workers. As part of a $1.85 trillion spending proposal last year that stalled in the Senate, Biden wanted extra tax credits to go to the buyers of EVs made by unionized factories. That would have provided a boost to the unionized auto plant owned by General Motors Co., Ford Motor Co. and Stellantis NV at a vital moment when union membership nationwide has been steadily decreasing.

During the Samsung visit, Biden called on Korean companies building plants in the U.S. to hire union workers. In addition to its coming Texas plant, Samsung has a deal in place with Stellantis to build an electric vehicle battery manufacturing plant in the U.S.

I urge Samsung and Stellantis and any company investing in the United States to enter into partnerships with our most highly skilled and dedicated and engaged workers you can find anywhere in the world: American union members, he said.

There so far has been no guarantee that the Hyundai Georgia plant's workers will be unionized.

Katie Byrd, the press secretary for Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp, noted in an email that the state is Right-to-Work, which means that workers may not be required to join a union or make payments to a union as a condition of employment.

A Hyundai spokesperson did not respond to an email asking if the Georgia plant would be unionized. A senior Biden administration official, who briefed reporters on the condition of anonymity, said there was no contradiction between Biden encouraging investors to embrace union workforces while his administration does whatever it can to encourage investment and bring jobs to the U.S.

Before meeting Hyundai's CEO, Biden attended Mass at his hotel in Seoul along with some White House staff. Biden will also meet with service members and military families at Osan Air Base and address U.S. and Korean troops. Biden and Korean President Yoon Sook Yeol on Saturday announced they will consider expanded joint military exercises to deter the nuclear threat posed by North Korea.

The push toward deterrence by Biden and Yoon, who is less than two weeks into his presidency, marks a shift by the leaders from their predecessors. President Donald Trump had considered scrapping the exercises and expressed affection for North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. And the last South Korean president, Moon Jae-in, remained committed to dialogue with Kim to the end of his term despite being repeatedly rebuffed by the North.

Biden decided to skip a visit to the demilitarized zone on the North and South's border, a regular stop for U.S. presidents when visiting Seoul. Instead, Biden, who had visited the DMZ as vice president, was more interested in visiting Osan to see an installation where the rubber hits the road for U.S. and South Korean troops maintaining security on the Korean Peninsula, said White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan.

Yoon campaigned on a promise to strengthen the U.S.-South Korea relationship. He reiterated at a dinner on Saturday in Biden's honor that it was his goal to move the relationship beyond security issues with North Korea, which have long dominated the relationship.

I will try and design a new future vision of our alliances with you, Mr. President, Yoon said.

Biden heads to Tokyo later Sunday. On Monday, he will meet with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and lay out his vision for negotiating a new trade agreement called the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework.

A central theme for the trip, Bidens first to Asia as president, is to tighten U.S. alliances in the Pacific to counter Chinas influence in the region.

On Tuesday, Japan will host Biden at a summit for the Quad, a four-country strategic alliance that also includes Australia and India. The U.S. president will then return to Washington.
Evolving from a grassroots group formed in 1987, the American Battlefield Trust has became the leading national land preservation group for sites connected to the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812 and the Civil War. Over the years, an estimated 200,000 ABT members have contributed funds which, in addition to state and federal grants, have preserved some 53,000 acres in 24 states, including VIrginia.

David Duncan, who grew up in Salem and was the ABTs longtime chief fundraiser, was named president in 2020. In this Q&A interview with The Roanoke Times, he speaks of his roots and growth into guiding a non-profit organization whose mission is preservation, education and advocacy.

What were the enduring influences of family life and growing up in Salem, a city with a strong sense of place and civic pride?

While my ancestral roots are deep in Southwest Virginia (Roanoke, Botetourt, Montgomery, Floyd, Henry, and Pittsylvania counties), its a fortuitous coincidence that I was able to grow up in Salem. Both sets of grandparents lived in Southeast Roanoke, and my parents moved to a new neighborhood at Salems eastern edge when I was two years old, probably because it was the newest house they could afford on a schoolteachers salary. (My father taught middle school history, civics, and Social Studies at Northside for 38 years, and passed away in that same house 47 years after he purchased it, as I stood at his bedside.) Weekend visits to my grandmothers also included, without fail, a stop at the Roanoke Public Library. My parents would emerge with armloads of books, and would encourage me to do the same. From early on, I gravitated toward history, once telling my mom that it was my goal to check out every book on the Civil War in the childrens section, as I wanted to know more about that subject than any of my classmates.

Its a cliche, but Salem means more to me now than it ever did when I lived there. I took it all for granted; the educational opportunities and exceptional teachers, the basic safety and livability of it, the sense of civic pride, and the natural beauty (I truly miss the daily visual embrace and sense of security the mountains provide). We could not afford much  our big vacation each year was a few days in Virginia Beach, if dad was not teaching summer school  but I never missed a meal, and I never lacked something to read. It was a very sheltered life for my first 18 years, but in a good way.

How did educational opportunities shape and guide your future?

Both of my parents stressed the importance of education. I was a good but not-excellent student, and they let me know if I ever failed to live up to their expectations with a good-natured but firm you can do better. The teachers who most influenced me did not teach history or business, but music. At East Salem Elementary, Becky Hendricks must have needed boys to sing in her choir; I dont remember ever auditioning, but there I was on the risers singing patriotic songs and Christmas carols.

Later, in another instance of taking something amazing for granted, in junior high school at Andrew Lewis, the choir practiced before school started. As we were a one-car family, I had no way to get to rehearsals, so Mrs. Hendricks would literally drive out of her way to come pick me up and get me there. (I dont recall ever paying her gas money, so its a good time for her to collect!) Thanks to her, I was railroaded into auditioning for the Salem High School Chorale. Being in that group, under William G. Snyder, literally changed the trajectory of my life. Working in a demanding environment where excellence if not perfection were the only acceptable standards, with a group of similarly committed classmates who were also expected to be exceptional students, and who were frequently admonished to Be a professional! and Dont talk about it, just do it! was just what I needed at that time in my life. Uncle Bill, as we called him, is to this very day one of my best friends, and one of the greatest positive influences on me as a person.

I attended college at James Madison University but did not major in history because I knew dad did not want me to follow in his footsteps to be a middle school Social Studies teacher. So, being a strong writer (I was editor of The Oracle student newspaper at Salem), I majored in communications, and minored in music, thinking I might get a job in the radio or TV business after graduation. However, the greatest impact on my future happened outside the classroom at JMU, when I took a job at the dining hall, which in those years was primarily managed and run by the students. It was there, eventually rising to the level of Student Manager, where I first learned to manage people, solve problems, be a good colleague, and effectively lead a team to achieve goals.

Has your career path followed a straight line or a winding road?

Looking back on it now at a distance, it looks petty straight. But in the moment, you never knew what to expect around the next curve. Upon graduation from JMU, I took a $15,000 per year copywriting position with a direct-mail fundraising agency in Northern Virginia. Aside from Chorale candle-and-wrapping-paper sales in high school, I had no experience in fundraising whatsoever, fully expecting this first job out of college to be temporary. Well, I turned out to be pretty good at it, helping to raise funds for many of the leading political candidates and causes of the late 80s through the 90s, rising eventually to the position of Creative Director of the agency. In my mid-30s, however, I was reaching the point where, while I was successful enough that my wife could stay home and raise our two daughters, I was terribly unfulfilled.

When the Ken Burns Civil War series first aired on PBS, something awakened inside of me. That childhood passion for history, which had been supplanted by the early-career demands of establishing myself, became, as my wife said, The Obsession. During long Northern Virginia commutes, I would listen to books on tape about the great campaigns, battles, biographies and memoirs of that era of our history. Living closer to the battlefields, I spent time on weekends visiting, for the first time in my life, places like Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Manassas, and Antietam. My dad gave me a copy of Michael Shaaras The Killer Angels; I read it in one weekend, then made my first of probably 25 trips to Gettysburg.

What attracted you to the philanthropic side of the business world?

One day, while I was still working full-time raising money for politicians, I received a piece of fundraising mail from a group called The Civil War Trust, looking to save an endangered piece of battlefield land, and the light bulb switched on: What if I could combine my professional experience with my passion? So I tried, unsuccessfully, for more than a year, to sign on with the Civil War Trust as well as a competing nonprofit called the Association for the Preservation of Civil War sites, but neither group could figure out what to do with me. In late 1999, I became aware that the two groups were going to merge, and I decided to try one last time. I wrote the newly appointed president, a Maryland political figure named Jim Lighthizer, a certified letter, telling him that after spending fourteen years putting money into politicians war chests, now I wanted to help him save battlefields. Within a week, he and I met, and after several weeks of negotiations (including a five-figure pay cut), I joined the newly minted Civil War Preservation Trust as its Director of Membership. It was the best professional decision I ever made. I led the fundraising effort for the Trust for twenty years under Jims leadership, rising to Chief Development Officer, and the board elevated me to President upon his retirement in October 2020.

There are tremendous psychic benefits to working in a cause for which you have great passion. I tell people all the time that I have worked for the Trust for more than 22 years, but there havent been more than 22 days where it actually felt like work. Im know how remarkably lucky I am to be able to say that. It is challenging, always working to bring in the next dollar, living on the knifes edge of cashflow, dealing with all the same things that every business has to deal with, but at the end of the day, I get to go home knowing that my work will provide something of lasting importance to this country I love so much, and to future generations. That adds a tremendous amount of emotional satisfaction to the paycheck. I get to spend my days travelling the country, meeting successful, amazing and generous people, and talk about preserving our countrys exceptional history. Im one of the luckiest people alive on the planet.

That said, I also tell people that at the Trust, we may have a nonprofit heart, but we have a for-profit head. I think the word nonprofit is actually a misnomer, because if you do not run your enterprise with a relentless focus on the bottom line, and make a profit, you will ultimately fail and will not be able to achieve your mission. The only difference is that our profit does not go to private owners or shareholders; it all gets plowed back into the mission. We speak of our donors as customers, and that it is our job to provide them with compelling product  land preservation opportunities and educational programs  that they will want to buy with their generosity. We cant make anyone support us; we have to earn their trust and loyalty just like a for-profit company, and we take that very seriously.

How has the American Battlefield Trust evolved from its modest, grassroots origins to become a major player in historic land acquisition and management?

We have very intentionally focused on several key Tenets of Success, starting with creating an organizational culture that focuses on the relentless pursuit of excellence in everything we do, from our historic land acquisition efforts, to our website (www.battlefields.org) and use of cutting-edge technology in our education mission, even with our events and publications. We will never be the biggest nonprofit, but we seek to be the best in the world at what we do. That leads to the next Tenet, which notes that you can only create a dynamic, excellent organization if you are made up of dynamic, excellent people; the right people in the right roles  from board members to staff  are they key. I unapologetically look for what we call A Players  people who are willing to work hard, are passionate about what we do, have a stellar work ethic, play well with others on a team, and again, are the best in the world at what they do. We also constantly assess our performance to squeeze out every improvement possible, and embrace calculated risk taking. If youre not at least a little scared every now and then, you probably are not pushing hard enough.

Our 40,000+ donors and major partners like the National Park Service, state parks and legislatures, other major national preservation partner organizations such as the National Park Foundation all recognize that we are incredibly efficient, they see that we achieve tangible and measurable results, earn consistently high ratings from the various charity watchdogs, and that we stay laser focused on our mission. We are regularly beseeched by well-meaning individuals and groups to get involved in peripheral activities such as saving prison camps, cemeteries, historic homes, etc. By clearly defining your mission  what you are in business to do  as well as by clearly defining what you wont do, you are able to keep focus, minimize mission creep, and steward your resources effectively.

What are the challenges of managing your professional staff along with maintaining strong relationships with ABT members and donors?

The pandemic has changed just about everything, but hopefully in ways more positive than negative. Two years ago, like many businesses, we had a strong bias toward everyone being in the same office all the time. Now, WFH or WFA are a fact of life that are not going away anytime soon. But this goes back to finding those A Players. When you have smart, dedicated, and talented people working in your enterprise, the machine should still run. At the Trust, we did not see even the slightest drop in productivity in 2020 or 2021; in fact, in some key areas, including fundraising, we saw increases! We are all learning how to long-distance-manage employees, but I truly believe that it is here to stay in some form, and will even be key to future retention efforts.

And while I am only now beginning to return to a robust travel schedule to visit donors face to face, we had developed strong enough relationships prior to March 2020 that Zoom, while imperfect, did allow us to keep in touch with many of our key constituents. In fact, some of our Zoom webinars have proven so successful that donors have asked us to continue doing them even after the pandemic subsides.

What was behind the decision by your organization to revise its mission by adding American Revolutionary land preservation to its agenda?

Our primary partner  the National Park Service  asked if we would consider expanding our mission, because we were the recognized leader of private-sector battlefield preservation efforts in the nation, and there were (and are) still thousands of acres of those battlefields that are endangered. We studied the opportunity in depth for quite some time, and in the end decided it was a natural extension of what we were already doing, and doing very successfully. If we had not expanded our scope, another group almost certainly would have emerged to fill that vacuum, and suddenly, were back to where we were in the 1990s, with competing battlefield preservation organizations going after limited funds, even if our subject matters were slightly different. We had, over nearly two decades, developed the knowledge and expertise to save historic land effectively and efficiently, so it was fairly easy to transfer those skills to a slightly different category of real estate. A lot of us had to quickly bone up on our Revolutionary War and War of 1812 history, but for history geeks like us, thats a benefit not a chore. It has proven to be a tremendous boost to our efforts, creating new partnerships, increasing our visibility in other parts of the nation as well as with funders in Congress, and positions us to make a tremendous contribution to the upcoming Semiquincentennial. Just a few weeks ago, standing at the Old North Bridge in Concord, Massachusetts, I announced our goal of saving 2,500 acres of Revolutionary War battlefield land during the course of our countrys 250th birthday celebration.

American Civil War history is being widely reinterpreted in the post-George Floyd era. How is the ABT positioning itself for the future, and to answer the questions of a rising, more diverse demographic?

If ever asked to say what we do in less than ten words, we say We build parks, and we tell stories. We also seek to be the authoritative source for information about our countrys first 100 years, especially as it is told by the actions that occurred on the battlefields. We are absolutely putting additional emphasis on telling those stories that may have been neglected over the year, such as the fourteen Medals of Honor that were awarded to African American Union troops at New Market Heights outside of Richmond.

I believe we must use history to gain insight and guidance on how we should live and govern our lives today as free people. Notice that I did not say we should use history to denigrate anyone, either alive today or who may have lived in a very different time and under very different circumstances from us. We should use history to uplift and inspire, and light a way forward, not beat down and discourage, and cause us to lose our way.

The American Battlefield Trust will always seek to use these hallowed grounds to hold constructive conversations, not engage in destructive confrontations. We will actively walk the land to gain greater understanding, not sow more confusion. As these places are still the final resting places of countless souls, we will fervently pray for more reconciliation, not less. We will use state-of-the-art education and technology to actively promote more interpretation, not less. Ultimately, we seek more preservation of Americas history, not less; every tragic and glorious moment of it, so that future generations can learn from it. To do otherwise is to steal crucial knowledge from our descendants, possibly condemning them to make the same costly mistakes that we and others have made.

Many years ago, I had a colleague whose area of special interest was European history. He belittled my fascination with American history with the comment of there hasnt been enough of it yet to truly make it worthy of study. I respectfully disagree: Americas history is huge, and there is more than enough room for everyone to participate in telling its amazing, inspiring, sometimes-heartbreaking story. It is part of my job to urge us all to pay attention to those better angels of our nature, continue to preserve, educate, and inspire, and pass along to our children and grandchildren a nation better, stronger and freer than the one which was entrusted to us.

In the end, we are in the forever business. It is our charge to accept those treasures which were transmitted to us from previous generations of Americans, to protect and defend them to the best of our ability in our own time, adding to them whenever possible but never subtracting from them, and then pass those treasures on, intact and whole, to the next generation. If we do this, we have been good and faithful stewards of the lands and legacies which were entrusted to us, and we have done our duty.
A celebration of the regions growing tech sector brought together over 300 people recently during the Roanoke-Blacksburg Technology Councils annual TechNite fete.

Keynote speakers John Newby, CEO of advocacy group Virginia Bio, and Conaway Haskins, vice president of the state-run Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation, said the region had distinguished itself as a model for collaboration across diverse specialties and communities.

You all have done an amazing job, particularly bonding together in Roanoke, Blacksburg, Lynchburg and the New River Valley. The ecosystem here is really forming an identity around entrepreneurship and innovation, said Haskins, adding the area had shrewdly rejected cookie cutter strategies in favor of developing a long-range vision around its unique resources and assets.

Those assets include the expanding biotech research work happening at facilities like the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at VTC, said Heywood Fralin, who was recognized as the events guest of honor. Fralin was one of the major advocates for the state-of-the-art research facility that was founded in 2010 and debuted a 139,000-square-foot addition in 2020.

In that time, Fralin said, the institute grew from an idea with one employee behind it into a bustling center with over 35 research teams, employing more than 450 people, and pursuing projects worth a collective $180 million.

The facility is well-positioned, with the communitys continued support, to keep generating high-paying jobs and pumping new money back into the local economy, Fralin concluded.

I think weve seen just the tip of the iceberg, he said. We have the best of the best.

Technite, held May 19 at the Taubman Museum of Art, also included the presentation of awards recognizing excellence in the tech community. Winners included:

<&underline>RBTC HALL OF FAME</&underline>: Praised as a serial entrepreneur and innovator, Chorda Pharma CEO Victor Iannello, an MIT graduate, has a background that includes founding multiple companies, including Radiant Physics, which developed revolutionary products in the energy, industrial tech and healthcare sectors. His current company is a burgeoning pharmaceuticals operation developing a pipeline of drugs that can manage pain without opioids.

<&underline>STEM-H EDUCATOR AWARD</&underline>: Kathleen ODell became a math teacher at Christiansburg Middle School some 15 years ago, and is known for incorporating real-world experiences into her curriculum. She rose to become chair of the schools math department, and was named 2022 Montgomery County Public School Teacher of the Year.

<&underline>RISING STAR AWARD</&underline>: Ticket Spicket, in just two years, has grown its business to reach 1.4 million unique users and handle 2.7 million transactions. The company created a no-cost digital ticketing platform for schools, districts and associations.

<&underline>INNOVATOR AWARD</&underline>: Dr. Robert Gourdie, an entrepreneur, has been part of founding three ongoing start-ups doing cutting-edge research. Two of those projects, Tiny Cargo Company and Acomhal Research, are poised to break new ground in drug delivery and glioblastoma treatment. Tiny Cargo was one of five companies awarded a $50,000 Washington, D.C., Health Innovation QuickFire Challenge Grant to support its work developing a novel drug delivery method using nano-capsules derived from cows milk. Gourdies third startup, First String Research, is in the midst of three active clinical trials.

<&underline>REGIONAL LEADERSHIP AWARD</&underline>: Wendi Pannell, vice president of content production at Ozmo, was lauded as a connector of people and ideas. Pannell has been dedicated to expanding the WoTech program, which supports women in technology.

<&underline>ENTREPRENEUR AWARD</&underline>: Martin Angst, co-founder of Rendyr, raised over $730,000 on Kickstarter to support development of the emerging desktop robotics companys first-of-its-kind portable laser cutter. The innovation is poised to dramatically improve access to rapid prototyping and digital fabrication. More information about it can be found online at launch.rendyr.com.

<&underline>LEADING TECH COMPANY</&underline>: P1 Technologies has built a reputation for high standards in one of the markets most highly regulated and demanding sectors. The company creates cabling and injection molding products with services that include custom specialty designs. The Roanoke County facility focuses on three primary service lines  medical, audio, and in vivo preclinical research.

<&underline>RUBY AWARD</&underline>: Kathy Claytor, vice president of human resources for Delta Dental, has been instrumental in the work to build the brand of the region as a destination for top talent, a true necessity for a long lasting and sustainable workforce, organizers said. Claytor also currently serves on RBTCs executive committee.

Contact Alicia Petska at alicia.petska@roanoke.com

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Rebecca Harris of Radford won the open category and tied for first with Michele Borgarelli of Blacksburg in the theme category in the Radford Photo Clubs May photo contest.

The photo challenge was Kindness. Harris photo showed Melinda Dunford of Radford helping her grandmother, Edith Harless of Radford, with her makeup. Borgarellis photo, taken in Amsterdam, showed a child getting money from his grandmother to give to a street band.

Harris calls her open-theme-winning photo Swallowtail butterflies on parade. She was fishing at Philpott Lake in Henry County and swerved the boat to shore to take the photo.

The Radford Photo Club is made up of professional and amateur photographers from throughout the New River Valley. It meets monthly at Radford Public Library. Meetings, events and outings are open to the public. At the June 16 meeting at 6 p.m., Edward Rhett of Draper will demonstrate photo editing software and will share it and a tutorial with anyone who brings their laptop or a thumb drive.

- Submitted by Susan Trulove
The Montgomery County-Radford City-Floyd County Branch and Youth Council of the NAACP will celebrate Juneteenth on Saturday, June 18, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Rosa Peters Playground, located at 300 Depot St. NE in Christiansburg.

Juneteenth is a traditional African American commemoration of freedom from slavery. It recognizes the day in June 1865 when word reached Galveston, Texas, that enslaved people had been emancipated. Celebrated informally for generations, Juneteenth was made an official federal holiday in 2021.

There will be many activities for this years celebration.

Dont miss an informative program on Juneteenth starting at noon. There will also be swimming, childrens games, a silent auction, a raffle and door prizes. Various talents will be shared by youth and community members.

The NAACP Youth Council will provide hot dogs, hamburgers, drinks and other snacks. An ice cream truck (sponsored by Freedom First Credit Union) providing free ice cream to youth will also be on hand.

All proceeds will be used for local youth educational activities and programs.

NAACP and other community organizations will have informational booths and giveaways. If you would like your organization to have a booth, please contact us asap at info@mrfnaacp or call our branch at 540-382-6751.

Admission to the Juneteenth event is free and the entire community is welcome. Come one, come all!

To learn more about Montgomery County-Radford City-Floyd County NAACP Branch #7092, go to http://mrfnaacp.org/ or follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/mrfnaacp.org/

- Submitted by James C. Klagge
President Joe Biden has delivered an impassioned plea to Congress to act on gun control. In an address to the nation Thursday night, he called on lawmakers to restore limits on the sale of assault-style weapons and high-capacity magazines. He says that if legislators fail to act, voters should use their outrage to turn gun violence into a central issue in Novembers midterm elections. Biden is trying to drive up pressure on Congress to pass stricter laws, though such efforts have failed in the wake of past violence. The speech follows recent mass shootings in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Uvalde, Texas and Buffalo, New York.
CHRISTIANSBURG  The town is slated to soon see the addition of a private school focused on serving children who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or another intellectual disability.

The school will be an extension of The Hughes Center, which is based in Danville and operates a residential treatment facility and day school in that city. The center has a second satellite school in South Boston.

Hughes Center CEO Mark Howard said during a recent Christiansburg Town Council meeting that the school in town will have a model similar to the one in Danville. Another key point he highlighted is that a school in the area can negate the need for local children to be bused to other parts of the state to receive the additional support, a process he said can require more than hour-long trips.

Howard said they looked at Christiansburg and identified the town as an area of need.

When asked if some local students with special needs are currently in Montgomery County schools, Howard said its a possibility. He, however, said the students are typically at another private day school that public school systems pay for with the aid of Childrens Services Act funds.

The Christiansburg school will be located at an existing 4,400-square-foot facility at 1650 Cambria St. The project recently cleared a key hurdle when the town council unanimously approved a conditional use permit that was needed to allow a private school in a general business district.

The permit vote was also notable for being a fast-tracked measure.

The only item concerning the school on the May 24 town council agenda was a public hearing on the requested conditional use permit.

Councilman Henry Showalter pointed out that public hearing items are normally subjected to a two-week wait period before being voted on to give citizens time to weigh in on the measures. He said the elected body has in the past been accused of sometimes playing favorites when it has come to eliminating that wait period, although he clarified that hasnt been an issue with the current town council.

Showalter and Councilman Sam Bishop each voted against a call to add the school permit vote to the May 24 agenda, with the former stressing the need to keep such conditions fair across the board.

However, Mayor Mike Barber, who only votes in the event of a tie, pointed out that the school is coming up against a two-and-half-month build-out schedule.

And youre cutting it pretty close, Barber said to Howard, who told council that plans call for the program to start in the fall and that the facility needs to be prepared.

Most council members agreed to immediately add the permit vote to the agenda. Council, on another vote, unanimously approved the conditional use permit.

Councilwoman Johana Hicks acknowledged the point Showalter raised about the wait period.

But in this situation, I do feel, just like the mayor and other council members, that it is important to move [on] this, Hicks said.

As for the three-classroom school, Howard said they anticipate the program to start with an enrollment of approximately eight to 10 students. He said the program is expected to then grow to a maximum enrollment of 28 students over the next three years.

Howard said the school is looking to serve Montgomery County and the surrounding area. He said theyre looking at employing approximately eight staff members.

Town officials also clarified that the permit recently approved by council would only allow for the operation of a day school, and that no students shall be housed in a residential setting on the property.

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Western Virginia played a significant role in the Watergate scandal, the biggest political crime in American history. Thats because of a freshman congressman from Roanoke, M. Caldwell Butler. He was elected in 1972 just months after the Watergate break-in.

The attorney and staunch Republican had earlier served six terms in the Virginia House of Delegates. In that role he helped break the decades-long stranglehold over Virginia politics held by the racist Byrd Organization, a gang of conservative Democrats.

As a new congressman confronting Watergate in the nations capital, Butler initially sided with President Richard Nixon and others in the GOP who claimed the scandal was fake news. But he later broke with the president and his party after White House tapes revealed Nixon personally conspired to cover-up the Watergate break-in.

Butler was a freshman in Congress at the time, and his brave vote for articles of impeachment against Nixon was big news in its day. Arguably, it cemented Butlers reputation in history as a leader who considered right and wrong more important than politics.

All of this would be ancient history  except for some televised congressional hearings later this week. Those are rare, especially on network prime time. They concern another political scandal that appears even bigger than Watergate: The Jan. 6, 2021 insurrection in Washington.

The hearings begin at 8 p.m. Thursday, and if youre planning an InsurrectionGate watch party, Im open to invitations.

Butler died in July 2014, so hes not around for the upcoming hearings about an ex-president who appears far more corrupt than Nixon. But two other notable characters from our region are involved.

One is Tim Heaphy, former U.S. Attorney for Western Virginia, appointed by then-President Barack Obama in 2009. Heaphy left that position in 2014, and in 2018 became counsel to the University of Virginia, a job under Virginias Attorney General.

While at UVa, the Democrat was temporarily loaned out to the U.S. House Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol, as its chief investigative counsel. Though he still plays that role, he no longer holds the UVa position.

Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares, a Republican, dismissed Heaphy and dozens of other appointees in the AGs office just before Miyares swearing-in back in January.

Heaphys been characteristically tight-lipped during his time with the committee. Back in August, shortly after his appointment, he told the publication UVAToday that, like many others, hed watched the televised attack on the U.S. Capitol with surprise and disappointment.

My role as Chief Investigative Counsel to the Select Committee gives me an opportunity to help find out what led to those events and what we need to do to ensure they do not recur, he told the publication in a statement.

The other character involved in the committees investigation is former congressman Denver Riggleman, a Republican who represented Virginias 5th Congressional District from 2019 to 2021.

Riggleman lost his bid for reelection to Bob Good, R-Campobell, in the 2020 Republican primary. Last August, Riggleman was also appointed to the select committee around the same time as Heaphy.

Known in the 5th District for his ownership of an Afton craft distillery, Riggleman also has an investigative background. Before he got into the liquor business, he served 15 years in the U.S. Air Force, first as an avionics technician and later as an intelligence officer.

In 2007, he founded Analytics Warehouse, a contractor for the National Security Agency, and served as its CEO for eight years.

In recent days, Rigglemans been more forthcoming than Heaphy about what Americans can expect to hear and see in the Select Committees upcoming hearings. I reached out to him via email last week  he didnt get back to me.

But Wednesday night, Riggleman appeared on Anderson Cooper 360. Thursday morning, he was back on the air with CNNs Brianna Keller.

He dropped heavy hints of major fireworks in store for America. His own reaction to what hes learned is horror, he told Cooper.

Unlike Watergate, this time around there dont appear to be any Oval Office tapes, which proved to be Nixons undoing. After Caldwell Butler personally heard Nixon conspiring to cover up the Watergate break-in, he could no longer support the president.

But we do have texts to former White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows. They reveal the private thoughts and actions of people close to Donald Trump in the aftermath of the 2020 election. And those may be even more powerful than tapes.

Riggleman has reviewed thousands of texts. He said they started almost immediately following Trumps 2020 election loss. And they continued all the way up to Jan. 6. Riggleman told Cooper hed read them multiple times, with a growing sense of horror.

Some of those weve already heard about, such as the texts from Fox News personalities Sean Hannity and Laura Ingraham during the insurrection, that beseeched Meadows to get Trump to call off the melee at the U.S. Capitol.

But there were many more we havent heard about, from sitting and former members of Congress, youre talking about Trump appointees, youre talking about fundraisers and donors, youre talking about group texts, Riggleman told Cooper.

And just like it took Congress a long time to get its hands on Nixons Oval Office tapes in the Watergate era, its taken the Select Committee months to organize those Insurrection texts chronologically, and to match the phones that sent them to actual names.

Some of the most eyebrow-raising, Riggleman said on CNN, came from Virginia Thomas, a conservative Republican activist whos married to Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas.

I think what people are going to understand about the Meadows text messages is how horrible they are, Riggleman told Cooper. When I first saw them, uh, my bemusement turned into horror pretty quickly when I saw some of the language thats being used in there.

I actually had to get away from the computer a couple times as I was looking at these text messages.

Riggleman added that some he read were as crazy as, you know, the Orcs are storming the bridge, right? And we need to have some wizard spells to cast on them to, you know, stop the monkey-birds from attacking us.

(Orcs are fictional humanoid monsters featured in the fantasy novels of J.R.R. Tolkien, such as the Lord of the Rings trilogy.)

And I would have somebody high up  you know, very high up in the Trump administration  [respond, saying]: Oh, thats interesting, I wonder if thats true? And it wasnt just what they were saying. It wasnt just this sort of spiritual warfare coupled with, you know, QAnon-type of, um, religiosity and types of conspiracy theories.

It was the fact that nobody pushed back. Or they would tacitly agree. Or they would say, this is the plan we need to do.

Later in the conversation, Riggleman added this:

Ive read those text messages so many times you almost feel like youre reading a fantasy novel. And I think people need to understand that the committee has an amazing challenge to try to get around the horror of those text messages, and some of the things that you see on there.

And it is horror, because these are people who are serving our government, and you can see all those QAnon and other conspiracy theories had inundated the Republican Party all the way up to the top levels.

It also sounds like the same type of emotions Caldwell Butler described in coming to the realization that Nixon was a crook.

All of which is to suggest that you might want to stock up on popcorn and tune in Thursday night and beyond.

Butler is no longer with us. But something tells me hell be watching from his perch in Heaven, surrounded by a flock of angels. With a wry frown on his face that suggests, I cant believe this is happening again.

Contact metro columnist Dan Casey at 981-3423 or dan.casey@roanoke.com . Follow him on Twitter:.

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Unhappy with the way it has been treated by a three-judge panel of an appellate court, Mountain Valley Pipeline is asking for a new slate of judges to hear the next round of its long-running legal battle with environmentalists.

In an unusual move, the company building a natural gas pipeline through Southwest Virginia filed a motion last month requesting the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to assign a new panel at random.

Mountain Valley is hoping for better luck than it had with a panel that presided over 12 earlier challenges of government approvals for it and the now-defunct Atlantic Coast Pipeline. Those three judges, it says, vacated or stayed all but two of the permits, effectively killing Atlantic Coast and threatening to do the same for Mountain Valley.

The perception created by this Courts deliberate formation of a special pipeline panel  actually a Mountain Valley panel  threatens public confidence in the Courts legitimacy, the motion reads.

The Richmond-based Fourth Circuit, which consists of 15 active judges and three senior judges to hear appeals from five states, has a computer program that randomly assigns three-member panels for incoming cases.

However, the courts rules allow for the same judges initially appointed at random to remain with a case when it comes up again, under certain circumstances.

When the Fourth Circuit was first asked to decide a case involving Mountain Valley  an appeal of a Roanoke judges 2017 decision on the companys powers of eminent domain  the courts program indiscriminately selected three judges.

The luck of the draw went to Chief Judge Roger Gregory and Judges Stephanie Thacker and James Wynn. That led to their assignment to most, but not all, of the future cases in which federal and state permits issued to Mountain Valley were contested repeatedly by environmental groups and local opponents.

But the Fourth Circuit did not follow its internal operating procedures, which only allow such assignments in limited cases, Mountain Valley asserts.

The rule states, in part: Every effort is made to assign cases for oral argument to judges who have had previous involvement with the case to preside over a motion made before oral arguments or a prior appeal in the matter.

Mountain Valley contends that the current cases  which involve petitions from environmental groups seeking the reversal of approvals for the 303-mile pipeline to cross streams and wetlands in Virginia and West Virginia  involve neither a pre-argument motion nor a prior appeal.

The company therefore respectfully asks the Court to correct this departure from its own procedures, George Sibley, a Richmond attorney who represents Mountain Valley, wrote in court papers.

Not only does the Fourth Circuits repeated reliance on the same three judges run counter to its rules, Mountain Valley argues, it also has created a public perception of a deck stacked against large infrastructure projects in general and one private party specifically.

The motion cites reports in The Roanoke Times about how the courts overall record has evoked a saying by pipeline opponents: May the Fourth be with you.

Also included is an editorial from The Wall Street Journal, which opined that oddly, repeated challenges keep landing before the same three-judge panel of Roger Gregory, James Wynn and Stephanie Thacker even though cases are supposed to by assigned to judges at random.

Steve Emmert, a Virginia Beach lawyer and an authority on state and federal appeals who publishes the online Virginia Appellate News & Analysis, said he has never seen a motion like the one filed by Mountain Valley.

To me, its very, very unusual, Emmert said.

The most recent actions by Judges Gregory, Thacker and Wynn came earlier this year, when they cited environmental concerns in rejecting two permits  for the second time  that had been issued to Mountain Valley.

One of the authorizations allowed the pipeline to cross through a 3 1/2 mile segment of the Jefferson National Forest in Giles and Montgomery counties; the other was a biological opinion by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service that found endangered species would not be jeopardized by construction of the buried pipeline.

Mountain Valley then asked the full Fourth Circuit to reconsider the panels decisions, which it declined to do.

That tells me it is unlikely that the court will grant them the relief that they are now seeking, Emmert said.

The Sierra Club and other environmental groups, which are contesting the latest permits for water crossings, urged the court not to grant Mountain Valleys request.

The crux of MVPs motion is that MVP has grown dissatisfied with that initial assignment because it has lost more often than it thinks it should have, wrote attorneys Derek Teaney and Spencer Gall, who represent the coalition.

They say Mountain Valley voiced no objections to the Gregory-Thacker-Wynn trio when it was first appointed at random. In that case, the panel upheld a decision from U.S. District Judge Elizabeth Dillon that favored the pipeline. Dillon ruled that she lacked jurisdiction to hear opponents challenges of the companys use of eminent domain to take property for the controversial project.

Most of the approximately half-dozen cases that involved eminent domain were omitted from Mountain Valleys calculations that it won only two of the 12 cases decided by the panel.

In so doing, MVP distorts [the panels] actual track record, the Sierra Clubs motion states.

There is no reason to disqualify the three judges for making rulings that were clearly supported by the facts, the motion continues. Those facts show systemic flaws in the permitting of MVPs pipeline, rather than a deck stacked against it,  Teaney and Gall wrote.

Many of the cases decided by the panel involved what it found to be inadequate oversight by government agencies to control muddy runoff from the massive construction project. Mountain Valley has been cited nearly 400 times by Virginia regulators for violating erosion and sedimentation control regulations since work began in 2018.

In support of the Fourth Circuits process of assigning three-judge panels, the Sierra Club cited an article from the Texas Law Review. Two law professors noted that having the same judges hear similar cases arises out of notions of judicial efficiency, allowing those already familiar with a case to remain involved.

Legal battles have delayed completion of the pipeline by nearly four years and doubled its cost, now estimated at $6.6 billion.

Mountain Valley spokeswoman Natalie Cox said the company respects the judicial system, and accordingly is requesting a new panel selection. She declined to comment further. Teaney, an attorney with Appalachian Mountain Advocates, declined to comment.

The future of the project could rest on what the Fourth Circuit does next.

Challenges of a Virginia State Water Control Board approval for stream crossings, and a similar authorization by West Virginia, are now before the court.

Mountain Valley is also seeking, for the third time, a permit struck down earlier by the court for the pipeline to pass through the national forest and an opinion from the Fish and Wildlife Service that construction would not jeopardize endangered species. Should those approvals be re-issued later this year, additional lawsuits would likely follow.

The last brief due in Mountain Valleys request for the random selection of a new panel was filed last week. A decision is expected in the coming weeks or months.

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The Virginia Tobacco Commission has agreed to help fund a planned expansion of the Floyd Innovation Center, the countys business incubator site.

The center, opened in 2014, has been a victim of its own success, with no more space to accommodate growth of existing businesses or to add more new companies to its building.

The Tobacco Commission last month approved a $20,000 grant for the Floyd Innovation Center which is intended to cover half of the costs of engineering and design work needed for growth, including space needs inside and outside the current building within the Floyd Regional Commerce Park.

Thirty-six people are employed at the innovation center with the average full-time wage being over $68,000 per year which is more than double the local average of $32,032. Three of the four businesses at the innovation center are growing and need more space and there are no other options for production, office or flex space in the county or town currently according to the grant application submitted to the Tobacco Commission.

The 13,000-square-foot facility offers flexible-lease space for small-scale production or research, as well as spaces for startups or emerging companies in the biomedical, pharmaceutical or other high technology industries.

Its mission, according to a mission statement, is to help facilitate better income for county residents and a more diverse, robust economy, without jeopardizing the natural beauty and resources here.

One of Floyd Countys challenges is a lack of well-paying jobs. An estimated two-thirds of local workers commuted out of the county for work in pre-pandemic days.

Other sites and buildings currently being developed at the Floyd Commerce Park, located off U.S. 221 south of the town of Floyd, are more suitable for light industrial businesses and arent a good fit for expanding the innovation center, according to a Tobacco Commission staff report.

Given that other available spaces are not suitable for the current needs of tenants, it does appear to be worth determining the feasibility of expanding the center, the report added.

Other funding for A&E work at the innovation center is being sought from the Appalachian Regional Commission. Floyd County will also contribute matching funds of $2,000 for the Tobacco Commission grant.

Virginia received $4.2 billion from the the massive Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement between tobacco companies and 46 states in 1998, about $2.1 billion of which was used to create the Virginia Tobacco Commission.

Now the commission, composed of elected officials and private citizens, meets regularly to award that money and make loans to economic projects within Virginias designated region where tobacco was an economic cornerstone. That region includes Floyd County.

Local, state and federal moneys created the Floyd Innovation Center, which opened in 2014, and have sustained its growth.

So far 10 businesses have graduated from the innovation center, the Tobacco Commission grant application said.

The building is configured in spaces that range from 120 to 5,000 square feet, but the spaces have been reconfigured for specific demands.
MONROE  Hundreds of people gathered Saturday for the Monacan Indian Nation Powwow, marking a return to the annual festival after a two-year break due to COVID-19.

Dancers took center stage in the middle of the day as several different groups played drums for a dancing competition. Vendors showed off traditional Monacan artwork, jewelry and clothing, and powwow attendees basked in the camaraderie that has been reduced within the tribe over the last two years in part because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Chief Kenneth Branham said this was the first large gathering of any kind for the tribe since the previous powwow in 2019.

Its fantastic to be back out here, Branham said. The goal is to get people out here to see how native people celebrate, dance and just have a good time with family fun.

The two-day festival in Amherst County highlights the culture of Native American tribes, including the Monacans, showcasing dancing, regalia, and other traditions.

Attaquin Weeden, a dancer during the competition, traveled from Maine to take part in the powwow and has been working on his craft since he was a kid and was taught the art by his father.

Since I was a kid and could start walking, my father, I would just follow behind him and just watch his steps. After I started on my own, Id put a little more pep in my step and learn from other peoples moves, Weeden said.

Now, Weeden travels to powwows up and down the East Coast, dancing in competitions in his bright blue regalia, hoping to honor those came before him.

I was told when you wear bright colors, the ancestors can see you better and can watch over you, he said. So when Im out there I pray for my loved ones and the ones here with me, just to represent my family.

Several groups of drummers performed music for dancers such as Weeden. One group, Red Clay, is enjoying being back performing as a group at powwows.

Matthew Richardson, a drummer for Red Clay, which includes several different tribes from North Carolina, said we just appreciate the togetherness of being at something like this.

Pre-pandemic, we had a whole schedule, but that didnt happen, so were excited to travel again and just to be around the drum again.

Richardson said the group was excited to try out some new songs during the two-day event this weekend.

Prior to the two-year break, the tribe hosted the powwow every year, with the original location being on Elon Road in Monroe. With a new venue  at 225 Laurel Cliff Road in Monroe  and beautiful backdrop, according to Branham, the tribe is excited for a new era of the powwow.

This year, said Diane Shields, a historian of the tribe, marks the 28th Monacan Indian Nation Powwow, and it brought new life to the festivities.

Its like a new breath of fresh air. We just all needed this. Its like we lost part of our culture not being able to do this kind of thing, Shields said.
By DANICA KIRKA and SYLVIA HUI Associated Press

LONDON (AP)  Prince Charles and his son Prince William honored the past and looked to the future Saturday as they paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II at a star-studded concert outside Buckingham Palace celebrating the monarch's 70 years on the throne.

Diana Ross, rock band Queen, Duran Duran, Alicia Keys and others performed in front of some 22,000 people gathered on the Mall for the open-air "Party at the Palace," which rounded up the third day of a four-day holiday weekend dedicated to celebrating the queen's Platinum Jubilee.

The 96-year-old monarch did not attend the concert, but she delighted the crowds when she appeared in a surprise video recorded with an animated version of another British national treasure: Paddington Bear.

The queen revealed she shared Paddington's love of marmalade sandwiches in a comedy skit that was shown to open the concert, which culminated in speeches by the monarch's son and grandson.

Charles opened his short speech by addressing the queen as "Your Majesty, mummy," then paid tribute to her "lifetime of selfless service."

The queen's eldest son and heir recalled the ever-growing list of world leaders Elizabeth has met and the endless stacks of state papers she has reviewed during a reign that has now stretched from the early days of the Cold War to the information age. But he also highlighted his mother's role as a symbol of stability, unifying the U.K. and the Commonwealth as they negotiated this rapidly changing world.

"You have met us and talked with us. You laugh and cry with us and, most importantly, you have been there for us, for these 70 years," Charles said as scenes from the queen's life were projected on the palace walls. "You pledged to serve your whole life  you continue to deliver. That is why we are here. That is what we celebrate tonight."

William preceded his father with remarks that underscored the queen's long-time commitment to the environment as he highlighted the need to combat climate change.

Recalling the queen's 1989 Christmas message, in which she called on all nations to work together to protect the earth for "our children and children's children," William said: "It's my firm hope that my grandmother's words are as true in 70 years' time as they are tonight, that as nations we come together in common cause, because then there is always room for hope."

The queen has not attended any of the festivities since Thursday due to what the palace describes as "episodic mobility issues." But her absence at the concert didn't dampen the party atmosphere among the crowds.

"It's a magical experience ... (This is) never again going to happen in our lifetime, and it's just absolutely incredible to be a part of this," said Sam Ahcquoim, from Cornwall in southwestern England. "I've been really, really excited and just can't wait to get in there now and start dancing."

The monarch also opted not to attend the Epsom Derby earlier Saturday, and was represented at the prestigious annual horse race by her daughter, Princess Anne.

The queen is widely known as an avid horse lover, and she has only missed the Epsom Derby a handful of times. On Saturday, five of her former racehorses were paraded, and 40 jockeys who have ridden for the queen formed a guard of honor before the national anthem was played.

"She's been breeding horses for over 60 years. She knows all the blood lines and she's won lots of races and she's very knowledgeable," Frankie Dettori, who lined part of the course with fellow jockeys, told the BBC.

"I'm sure today she'll find a TV and she's going to watch it live, because she loves the Derby so much," he added.

It was the second time in as many days that the queen's mobility issues have robbed crowds of a chance to see her.

On Friday, the queen skipped a special service of Thanksgiving in her honor at St. Paul's Cathedral in London. Palace officials said she had experienced "some discomfort" at events the day before, which included waving to huge crowds from Buckingham Palace.

Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan, were among nearly 50 members of the royal family who gathered Friday at St. Paul's Cathedral to honor the absent head of state. It was the couple's first public appearance in the U.K. since they stepped back from royal duties and moved to California two years ago.

Apart from attending Friday's service, the couple has so far stayed out of the limelight. Their two children, Archie and Lilibet, who turned one Saturday, haven't yet made an appearance during this trip. A spokesperson for the couple said they were spending the day "privately" and were not joining some 30 other royals at Saturday's concert.

Meanwhile, members of the royal family travelled to Wales and Northern Ireland as part of celebrations across the U.K.

William and his wife Kate brought two of their three children  8-year-old Prince George and 7-year-old Princess Charlotte  to Cardiff Castle in Wales before a separate concert in the castle grounds in honor of the queen.

The queen's youngest son, Prince Edward, and his wife Sophie, Countess of Wessex, visited a 1950s-themed seaside funfair in Belfast. Edward tried his hand at pulling a pint of Guinness at a diner, while Sophie took in a '50s and '60s dance demonstration.

___

Follow AP's coverage of Queen Elizabeth II at https://apnews.com/hub/queen-elizabeth-ii
Social media is a part of nearly everyones life in some shape or form. It has become more and more common over the past decade, and now its even become a marketing tool.

Many businesses and farms of different types have turned to social media to market their business.

Whether the farm or business is selling products or services, social media platforms allow you to reach countless people within a shorter time for little to no cost, especially when compared to other conventional marketing tools. Social media not only allows you to promote your business, but youre also able to make connections with present customers/potential customers, receive immediate feedback, and educate the public.

The only caveat: You can easily slip through the cracks and go unseen or become irrelevant within a short time. So how can you avoid becoming irrelevant? There is no way to prevent it from happening altogether, but there are some tips you can follow to keep your business page relevant.

Tip 1: Post consistently/ at peak times

This is probably the most common tip youll hear. The more you post, and you post consistently, the more your followers expect your posts. If you release new products or have sales weekly, pick a day of the week that works best and consistently post on that day.

This way your followers are looking for those posts. Along with posting at a consistent and regular time, post at peak times. With the Meta Business Suite through Facebook, you can find out what time your followers are online the most and match your posting up with that time.

If you just created your page and dont have that type of information yet, dont worry. You can always research peak times for where you live since there is plenty of research that has already been done.

Tip 2: Connect with your followers

This may seem like a simple tip, but it makes a difference. Some examples of connecting with your audience could be as simple as responding to their comments. Or you could even create stories on Facebook/ Instagram and add poll questions for followers to have interaction with your customer base.

Tip 3: Use fewer words

Sometimes we have something we want to post, and it happens to be a lengthy post. Thats OK, but the fewer words on a social media post, the more likely someone will stop scrolling and take a look.

Most individuals dont have a long attention span, especially scrolling through information on social media, so make your posts and ads short, sweet, and to the point. This will provide a better chance of having more people reading your post. Good quality pictures are also a great way to get people to interact with your posts. If you have a farm, this is a great way to promote your products by showing people where they come from.

Tip 4: Switch up your content

Sometimes you may find yourself in a funk, posting the same thing repeatedly. Maybe youve found your audience doesnt seem to be growing. An excellent way to counteract this is to switch up your content. Some examples could be:

What products do you have

Where to buy the products

Educational posts

Daily chores on the farm

New additions to your farm (employees, animals, etc.)

Community events

Holiday posts

Thank your customers

Milestones

Celebrations/birthdays

Answers to common questions

Recipes or how to use your products or how are your customers using your products/services.

Tip 5: Be you

This last tip may seem simple but always make sure you stay true to your businesss brand, dont stray from your values for social media to gain followers because followers dont equate to customers. You gain customers from the value of your products, and how well you can market them is just as important.

Weve gone over some tips if you want to market your farm/ business with social media, but what if you dont own a business? What if youre looking to support local farms and businesses?

Well, the obvious answer is to buy products from them. But you can also help their business by being active on their social media platforms. The more people involved on their pages; the more Facebook and other social media content providers will advertise their page. So, like, share, and leave a comment. Leaving reviews is also another great way to support the farm/business as well.

Our world is forever changing, and social media is becoming more intertwined in our daily lives. While everyone has different opinions on the matter, its an excellent opportunity as a business to get your products out to more people. Take the opportunity, but make sure you use the platforms as much as possible.

The Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to people of all ages, regardless of race, color, gender, religion, national origin, disability, political belief, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital or family status and is an equal opportunity employer.
In the wake of every mass killing in this country, politicians do what politicians do, which is to circle their respective wagons and offer solutions that fail to get to the heart of the issue.

I dont have a dog in the gun control fight. We already have laws on the books that are designed to prevent criminals from possessing firearms. If Congress wants to strengthen those laws and ban so-called assault weapons and/or high capacity magazines, fine. But keep in mind there are plenty of firearms already in circulation.

To be sure, there are immediate steps we can and should take. Author David French, in his column for the Dispatch, made a case red flag laws, which essentially would allow for, within certain parameters, the seizing of weapons of a person who demonstrates hes a threat to others or himself. It would also prevent the individual from purchasing additional weapons. You would think this is a measure on which everyone could agree. Mass shooters almost always leave a trail. According to police, the Uvalde shooter sent a series of messages: Im going to shoot my grandmother, Ive shot my grandmother, and then: Im going to shoot an elementary school,

In the aftermath of Tuesdays shooting, much of the political and media attention was devoted to  as it always is  the method of killing rather than to the killer himself. It seems, at the very least, naive to believe that someone hell bent on mass murder will fail to follow through on his crime if he doesnt have access to a certain type of firearm. Violent criminals tend to be resourceful. The question is Why do mass killings happen? Looking at how they were carried out or which type of weaponry was used, while not irrelevant, will only get us so far.

I just returned from Germany and Poland where another professor and I took students on what the university calls the Human Dignity tour, in which we examine, among other things, the relationship between the Holocaust as a historical event and modern, contemporary issues related to human life. We toured three concentration camps, Sachsenhausen and Ravensbruck in Germany, and Auschwitz in Poland.

The Nazis used a variety of techniques to kill people including but not limited to firing squads, carbon monoxide, starvation, hanging, and a cyanide-based pesticide call Zyklon B. The evidence, including gas chambers and crematoria still exists, lest anyone need to be reminded of what horrors evil can achieve.

Our discussions with students and our guides organically led not so much to how these murders were committed but why. What leads human beings to have such little regard for their fellow human beings that they are willing to participate in their wholesale slaughter? Some 77 years after the Holocaust, this still seems to be the question of the moment.

The answer begins with the biblical but countercultural assertion that human beings are not inherently good. Anyone who disagrees I would urge to consider the evidence, which can be found in any newspaper. In my case, all I need to do is look in the mirror. In Jeremiah 17:9, the prophet says the heart of man is deceitful and desperately wicked. In Romans, Paul reiterates the psalmist when he writes, There is no one righteous, not even one.

If we begin with the premise that mankind is flawed and in need of salvation, how does such a premise inform our discussion on mass killings, suicides and violence currently playing out major American cities?

Study after study indicates that young Americans are lonelier than ever. A CDC survey during the height of the pandemic in 2020 found that some 63% of young people, ages 18-24, are suffering significant symptoms of anxiety or depression. Between 2007 and 2018, suicide rates among young people ages 10 to 24 increased by 57%, according to a report by the U.S. Surgeon General.

We dont know what combination of factors led the Uvalde shooter to commit his terrible crime. We can ban all the weapons we want but unless we commit to making sense of these numbers, and combine that understanding with measures such as red flag laws and enhanced backgrounds checks, well have little chance of intervening before evil and opportunity meet.

Rich Manieri is a Philadelphia-born journalist and author and a professor of journalism at Asbury University in Kentucky. You can reach him at manieri2@gmail.com.
Cycling is more popular than ever, and the trend of exploring far-off destinations on two wheels continues to rise. Here are five ideas for yo
Seguin, TX (78155)

Today

Partly cloudy skies. Near record high temperatures. High 102F. Winds S at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Mainly clear early, then a few clouds later on. Low 73F. Winds SSE at 10 to 20 mph.
 On fleek and spicy: "Millennials Commit Less Crime Than Prior Generations" | Main | Fourth Circuit to review en banc recent panel ruling that lengthy (within-guideline) drug sentence was unreasonable 

May 11, 2021

"Old law" federal prisoners provide new reminder that parole does not cure all ills

A few years ago I wrote an essay, titled "Reflecting on Parole's Abolition in the Federal Sentencing System," which lamented the federal sentencing system's decision to abolish parole back in 1984. Among other points, in this piece I suggested that "parole could have been, and perhaps should now become, a bulwark against the kind of impersonalized severity that has come to define much of the modern federal sentencing experience." I realized while working on that piece that there was a bit of "grass is always greener" thinking driving my modern "ivory tower" affinity for part of a sentencing scheme that has long been beset with problems in practice.

Today, the imperfect realities of parole is highlighted in this new NPR piece a helpful reader made sure I saw headlined "Forgetting And Forgotten: Older Prisoners Seek Release But Fall Through The Cracks." I recommend the full piece, and here is how it starts and a few other passages:

Davon-Marie Grimmer has been struggling to get help for more than year for her cousin, Kent Clark. Sometimes, when he calls from prison, he asks to speak with relatives who are no longer alive. Sometimes, he forgets the name of his cell mate. "As far as I know, he hasn't received any medical attention for the dementia, and he's just so vulnerable in there," Grimmer said. "He's 66 years old. He can't take care of himself." Clark is one of about 150 people in federal prison who time mostly forgot. This group of "old law" prisoners committed crimes before November 1987, when the law changed to remove the possibility of parole. But even with the grandfathered-in chance for parole  and despite a push to reduce prison populations  dozens of men in their 60s, 70s and 80s still have little hope of release. When Congress tweaked the law three years ago to allow sick and elderly people behind bars to apply to a judge for compassionate release, that change didn't apply to the "old law" prisoners. They're easy to overlook. "They are the oldest and most vulnerable cohort of people within the federal prison system today," said Chuck Weisselberg, a law professor at the University of California, Berkeley. "I mean, their only path for release is through the parole commission, an agency that's been dying for decades." A bipartisan group of senators has introduced legislation that would give "old law" prisoners the chance to petition judges for release based on their age and poor health, but it's awaiting action in Congress.... As for Kent Clark, the U.S. Parole Commission reviewed his case last year. According to written records, Clark's case manager told the commission that Clark is showing signs of dementia. He pointed out that as a young man, Clark was a boxer who may have a history of head injuries. But the parole examiner denied Clark's bid for release. The examiner wrote that if Clark can't remember what he did, "how can the Commission be certain he has learned something from his mistakes and/or that he has developed the skills to avoid engaging in the same behavior?"

May 11, 2021 at 10:42 AM | Permalink

Comments

I handle old law parole revocation cases as part of my practice. The Parole Commission lacks accountability and transparency. They sometimes cannot get basic administrative functions right. In my view, all parole cases should be converted to supervised release cases and handled by courts with public dockets, public hearings and the chance to meet a lawyer before deciding you don't want or need one. And given my strong feelings about the supervised release system, that's saying something.

Posted by: defendergirl | May 11, 2021 3:06:36 PM

Way back when I was in law school and dinosaurs walked the earth, I participated in a clinic that handled parole hearings. (This was just after the sentencing guidelines took effect for the new offenders.) What quickly became apparent was that, even before the sentencing guidelines were enacted, many judges were using the parole guidelines to make sentencing decisions. Most of my clients fell into two categories with both based on the assumption that the parole date would be within the guidelines range.

In category one were the individuals who faced a judge who used the guidelines as a parole eligibility date. At that time, federal offenders had to serve one-third of their sentence before becoming parole eligible. These offenders had a sentence approximately three times the median of the guideline range. In short, these judges made sure that the Parole Commission could not go under the guideline range.

In category two were the individuals who faced a judge who used the guidelines as a mandatory release date. At that time, barring misconduct that would cost an inmate "good time" credit, most inmates reached their statutory release date after serving about two-thirds of their sentence. Thus, by imposing a sentence that was approximately 50% longer than their parole guideline range. In short, these judges made sure that the Parole Commission could not go over the guideline range.

In short, the more transparent the operations of parole were, the easier it was for judges to circumvent and limit the discretion of the Parole Commission. As bad as the current system might be, it is at least more straightforward about the relationship between the sentence and the time to be served.

Posted by: TMM | May 11, 2021 3:39:39 PM

What your Blog and the NPR piece gloss over is that "old Law" inmates can seek compassionate release under the pre-First Step Act BOP Regulations, but as a practical matter, it is almost never granted, and generally requires that the inmate be terminally ill, such as with cancer. Most Old Law inmates seeking Compassionate Release under the old Regulations died before their Petition could work its way thru the 4 levels of the BOP Bureaucracy: Warden, Regional Office, Director of the BOP, and review and recommendation by the BOP Medical Director. The minimum time for a petition to run the gauntlet of the BOP Bureaucracy is 6 months to 1 year, and terminally ill men usually die before that process can be completed. I first learned about this issue when I was an inmate at USP - 1, Coleman, Florida in 2006. I drafted (at a prison law library typewriter) a Petition for Compassionate Release for the longest serving inmate in the entire BOP. He was convicted of "kidnapping resulting in death" in June 1964. He was among a group that had been paid by a political opponent to kidnap a Cincinnati political candidate and hold him in communicado (in Northern Kentucky) during the last weeks before and election, to keep him from campaigning. The kidnappers were camping in the woods with their captive, but forgot to bring water to drink. Their captive suggested that he had a bottle of bourbon in the trunk of his car, so they should drink it in lieu of water. All got drunk, and a fight broke out. The captive died when his temple struck a rock on the ground when he was punched and knocked down in the fight. The Inmate was paroled for 13 days in 1994, after serving 30 years of his sentence. During those 13 days bank in the free world, he and his brother committed a series of bank robberies, and he was caught and returned to prison, to complete his life sentence, plus more time for the bank robberies. By the summer of 2006, he had served 42 years in Federal prison, and was reduced to an old man in his 80s, restricted to a wheel chair and chain smoking cigarettes. The prison doctor diagnosed him with terminal cancer, which had metasticized throughout his body. The Warden told him to get someone to help him prepare a Petition for Compassionate Release, and he would approve it and try to get him released from prison in time to die in the Free World, with his family. Other inmates brought him to me, because I was the only inmate with a law degree and practice experience. We met in the law library after dinner. I opened the Code of Federal Regulations to the appropriate sections, read them, and begin asking him questions to elicit the information I needed to prepare his Petition. I typed as he answered the questions. The Warden approved his Petition for Compassionate Release and forwarded it to the BOP Regional Office, where it was sitting unreviewed at the time the inmate died 6 weeks later. His cellmate returned from breakfast one morning to find him dead on the concrete floor of their cell. Work call and educational call were cancelled that morning and inmates were restricted to their living units while the local coroner was called in to review the scene and remove the body. The Coroner removed his body thru back hallways, out of inmate view, because some inmates with life sentences (in a BOP Penitentiaries, more than 2/3 of inmates have life sentences) get upset or violent when they see the body of another inmate who has passed inside the prison. Staff permitted the dead inmate's cellmate to sit outside at a table and cry away his grief. It was a poignant scene. This is what the remaining 150 Old Law inmates inside the BOP are facing. I pray that Congress will soon help them and make them eligible for the same kind of Compassionate Release as the New Law inmates receive.

Posted by: Jim Gormley | May 12, 2021 9:17:10 AM

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 Earned time credits set up by FIRST STEP Act subject to notable litigation | Main | Democratic Senators praise AG Garland's capital moratorium and urge additional steps 

A few months ago, I blogged here about an NPR story regrading so-called "old law" federal prisoners, persons who committed federal crimes before November 1987 and who are not currently able to apply to a judge for compassionate release under the FIRST STEP Act. NPR returned to this story recently with this new piece headlined "Some Older Prisoners Aren't Eligible For Compassionate Release. Lawmakers Want Change." Here are excerpts:

COVID-19 has exacted a terrible toll inside America's prisons, spreading there at six times the rate as among the general population. The coronavirus pandemic motivated tens of thousands of incarcerated people to request early release on the grounds that their old age and health troubles made them especially vulnerable.

But the Federal Bureau of Prisons told lawmakers that of the nearly 31,000 prisoners to request compassionate release, the BOP approved just 36. Thanks to Congress, many had another option. The First Step Act gave them the opportunity to go to court and persuade a judge they should win compassionate release. More than 3,000 people have won their freedom that way during the pandemic.

But that law overlooks a small group of people in federal prison who were convicted of crimes before November 1987. One of them is Kent Clark. NPR focused on Clark and other "old law" prisoners in a story this year. Clark's cousin said Clark had lost his memory during his 31 years in prison. After the story ran, public defender Rahul Sharma finally got Clark's medical records.

"They showed he has moderate to severe dementia, borderline blindness, tooth loss, severe depressive disorder, gout, cardiac arrhythmia and honestly just severe pain throughout his body," Sharma said. He said Clark had been wandering into other people's prison cells and kept a list of things he needed to remember to do every day, like going to the bathroom and wearing a mask. "It was found by the facility, by the prison, that he was a real danger to himself, given the severity of his dementia," Sharma said.

Clark has now been moved to a hospital in Florida where he's guarded by corrections officers, with one arm chained to the hospital bed and irons on his legs. The warden has denied Clark's request for compassionate release. Sharma said Clark, now 66, is deteriorating rapidly.

Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Dick Durbin, D-Ill., is leading efforts to make "old law" prisoners eligible to petition a judge for compassionate release. A bill moving through Congress would change the law to make "old law" prisoners eligible to petition a judge for compassionate release. The Senate Judiciary Committee advanced the measure by a bipartisan vote of 14-8 in May.

Democrats hope to bring it to the full Senate this fall, saying the bill would fix a glaring injustice. Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Dick Durbin, D-Ill., is leading the charge. "'Old-law' offenders are some of the most vulnerable and deserving of relief in federal prisons," Durbin said in a written statement. "There is no logical or moral reason to exclude these offenders from the opportunity to petition the court for compassionate release." Durbin called it a "modest, but necessary" reform and pointed out that the top Republican on the committee, Chuck Grassley of Iowa, is on board.

But some Republican senators, like Arkansas' Tom Cotton, are resisting. "Most of this bill is just an expansion of criminal leniency policies for serious offenders under the guise of protecting inmates," Cotton said at a committee meeting this summer.

Mary Price, the general counsel of FAMM, a group that advocates for incarcerated people and their families, said that giving people in prison the option of petitioning a judge for release is not a "get-out-of-jail-free card." Indeed, Price said, only about 20% of people in prison who sought compassionate release during the pandemic have been approved by judges.
At least 49 people died and hundreds were injured after a fire sparked a huge chemical explosion at a shipping container depot in Bangladesh, officials said on Sunday.

The toll was expected to rise, with some of the more than 300 people injured in serious condition, officials said, while volunteers reported that there were more bodies inside the smouldering, wreckage-strewn facility.

The fire started late on Saturday at the depot in Sitakunda, which stores around 4,000 containers, many of them filled with garments destined for Western retailers. The facility is about 40 kilometres (25 miles) from the major southern port of Chittagong.

Following the fire, containers holding chemicals exploded, engulfing firefighters, volunteers and journalists in an inferno, hurtling people and debris through the air, and turning the night sky a blazing orange.

Buildings located kilometres away rattled with the force of the blast.

Elias Chowdhury, regional chief doctor, told AFP that the number of dead was 49 but would increase. Firefighters continued to douse pockets of fire with hoses on Sunday.

"The death toll will rise as the rescue work has not been completed yet," Chowdhury said.

"These people -- including several journalists who were doing Facebook lives -- are still not accounted for."

Reazul Karim, operations director of the fire department, said that at least seven firefighters died and that at least four others were missing.

"Never in our fire department history have we lost so many firefighters in a single incident," Bharat Chandra, a former senior firefighter, told AFP.

"There are still some bodies inside the fire-affected places. I saw eight or 10 bodies," one volunteer told reporters.

Mujibur Rahman, the director of B.M. Container Depot, the firm operating the facility with around 600 workers, said that the cause of the initial fire was still unknown.

The container depot held hydrogen peroxide, fire service chief Brigadier General Main Uddin told reporters.

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"We still could not control the fire because of the existence of this chemical," he said.

- 'Fireballs falling like rain' -

Mohammad Ali, 60, who runs a nearby grocery store, said the blast was deafening.

"A cylinder flew around half a kilometre from the fire spot to our small pond when the explosion occurred," he told AFP.

"The explosion sent fireballs into the sky. Fireballs were falling like rain. We were so afraid we immediately left our home to find refuge... We thought the fire would spread to our locality as it is very densely populated," he added.

Lorry driver Tofael Ahmed was standing inside the depot when the explosion occurred.

"The explosion just threw me some 10 metres from where I was standing," he said. "My hands and legs are burned."

Chowdhury, the chief doctor in Chittagong, said the injured had been rushed to different hospitals as doctors were brought back from holiday to help.

Requests for blood donations for the injured flooded social media.

- Army choppers -

The army said it had deployed 250 troops to prevent chemicals flowing into the Indian Ocean by using sandbags.

Mominur Rahman, chief administrator of Chittagong district, said that while the fire was largely under control, there were "still several pockets" that were active.

"Firefighters are trying to control these pockets of fires. The fire has spread to at least seven acres of land inside the depot," he said.

Fires are common in Bangladesh due to lax enforcement of safety rules.

Around 90 percent of Bangladesh's roughly 100 billion dollars in trade -- including clothes for H&M, Walmart and others -- passes through the Chittagong port at the northern end of the Bay of Bengal.

Exports have been booming since late last year, as the global economy recovers from the pandemic. In the first five months of the year, shipments were up more than 40 percent.

str-sa/stu/aha
The no-frills FBI arrest of Donald Trumps former trade adviser Peter Navarro for defying a subpoena is likely a hard message from the Department of Justice that its not fooling around, a former federal prosecutor said Saturday.

Navarro was charged with two criminal contempt of Congress counts for defying a subpoena to appear before the Jan. 6 House committee and failing to provide demanded documents.

He angrily complained to a judge and reporters outside court after his arrest Friday at an airport in Washington, D.C., that he was handcuffed and locked in a jail cell. He told journalists that the subpoenas he defied were ultra vigorous, unenforceable, and unconstitutional.

Navarro is on a lengthy rant about his treatment by the FBI. "I was a distinguished public servant for four years," he says. "No one ever complained about my ethics."  Andrew Goudsward (@AGoudsward) June 3, 2022

Former federal prosecutor and noted defense attorney Shan Wu said on CNN Saturday that he saw absolutely nothing improper with Navarros arrest. Navarro said he was denied a phone call after his arrest, but since hes representing himself, Wu was confused about what attorneys would have been contacted.

Wu said it is a little unusual that in a white-collar case they wouldnt have allowed him to self-surrender. That could indicate ... they might have been concerned that it was hard to reach him and he might flee, given he was representing himself. And [they] may have been trying to send a message.

He added: I dont think its a coincidence of the timing that Navarro was arrested when officials also announced that Trump ally Dan Scavino and former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows would not be charged for defying their subpoenas.

Navarros arrest may have been to make that point theyre not fooling around, that when they [do] indict, theyre going to treat people quite seriously, he added.

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Navarro has claimed he cannot cooperate with the House committee because hes protected by executive privilege from the president, meaning Trump. Not only has Navarro already spilled several details he now refuses to discuss in his recent book, but executive privilege isnt Trumps to grant; its President Joe Bidens. And Biden has refused to grant executive privilege to those targeted by the House committee investigating last years insurrection.

So its pretty much a slam dunk against Navarro on that point, said Wu.

Check out the full interview here:

This article originally appeared on HuffPost and has been updated.

Related...
Meetings and events

Loess Hills Chapter, OES meeting is Thursday, June 9, at 7:30 p.m. Honor Fathers and Masons. Refreshments: Kathy Anders and Rita Gerking. Morningside Masonic Temple, 4110 Morningside Ave.

Bruguier's Cabin Tours, the second Sunday of the month from June to October, from 2 to 4 p.m. Special group tours can be arranged by calling 712-490-6506.

Dakota County Historical Society meets at 7:30 p.m. on third Thursday of the month, Dakota City Library. Contact Dennis Reinert at 712-253-1609 for more information.

Top O' Morning Toastmasters Club, Mondays, noon to 1 p.m. Contact LeAnn Blankenburg, 712-870-1120, for meeting information.

The Siouxland Ostomy Support Group, find us on Facebook. For more information and meeting times contact Dick Lindblom at 712-251-2453.

Southside "South Bottoms" former residents, 6 p.m. potluck, second Wednesday of the month at Goodwill Industries cafeteria, 3100 Fourth St. Gert, 258-2227.

Siouxland Metal Detecting and Archeology Club, 6:30 p.m., first Tuesday of the month in the Gleeson Room at 4510 Buckwalter Drive. Visitors welcome. Ray Turner, 712-899-2114.

American Legion Post 64, 7 p.m. last Thursday of the month at 4021 Floyd Blvd. 712-258-3986.

Marine Corps League, 6 p.m. second Tuesday of the month at Elks Club on TriView Ave. All marines welcome. For more information, call Cathy Moreno, 712-899-8441.

Sioux City Chapter of National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), 7 p.m. fourth Tuesday of the month at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 1421 Geneva St. 712-203-2052.

Sioux City Duplicate Bridge Club, 12:30 p.m. Mondays (open); at the Senior Center. Mary 605-670-9613.

Siouxland Fly-Fishing Club, 10 a.m. last Saturday of the month at the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center on Hwy 12. All interested in fly fishing; beginners welcome. Monthly programs provided. For more information, call Bob Gillespie, 712-251-9463, or Diana, 402-987-3945.

Siouxland Coin Club, 7 p.m. first Tuesday of each month at First United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, 1915 Nebraska St. Bob, 255-4829.

The Siouxland Pride Alliance, peer support group, 5:30 p.m. Fridays; Youth Pride group, 1:30 p.m. second Sunday of the month; potluck, 5:30 p.m. third Sunday of the month. First Unitarian Church, 2508 Jackson. Call 712-223-0931

Siouxland Samplers Quilt Guild, 7 p.m. second Monday of the month at the Redeemer Lutheran Church, 3204 S. Lakeport St, door #2. Visitors and new members welcome.

Siouxland Sewing Guild, 6:30-8 p.m. first Thursday of the month at South Sioux Public Library, 2121 Dakota Ave., South Sioux City. For anyone interested in sewing. Denise, 402-922-1822.

Sooland RC Modelers, 7 p.m. second Thursday of the month at Morningside Lutheran Church. Non-profit club that flies remote control aircraft. Anyone interested in RC is welcome.

Retired Educators, 10:30 a.m. third Tuesday of the month, at the Redeemer Lutheran Church, 3204 S. Lakeport St., door #6.

Mid-Step Services for Handicapped, meal at 5 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month, at the Redeemer Lutheran Church, 3204 S. Lakeport St., door #6.

Confirmation Instruction and Midweek Lessons, 5 p.m. on Wednesdays, at the Redeemer Lutheran Church, 3204 S. Lakeport St., door #6. Open to all kids 5 years old through 8th grade.

Primetime (Potluck), 12 p.m., second Thursday of each month, at Whitfield United Methodist Church, 1319 W 5th. For more information call 252-3261 Tuesday-Thursdays, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Abundant Life Fellowship, 809 S. Alice St., in Sioux City will distribute food boxes after their 11 a.m. Sunday services. For additional information contact Pastor Bob at 605-205-0718 or Donna at 605-205-0719.

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Schuyler High School, located in a primarily Hispanic community, has shown enough progress to be removed from the Nebraska Department of Education's list of schools needing intervention.

The Nebraska Board of Education voted Friday to remove its designation of the high school as a "priority school," selected from among the lowest-performing schools in the state's classification system.

Schuyler High School landed on the list in 2018 because of a number of factors, including its dropping graduation rate, chronic absenteeism and the number of English language learners not proficient on state assessments.

State law requires the Department of Education designate priority schools for intervention. Schools identified for help work with the state to draft an intervention plan to identify goals and areas for improvement.

After three years, the board can vote to extend or amend the progress plan or remove the priority school label. The 2019-20 school year was not taken into account because of the pandemic.

"It's not easy to name a priority school from our standpoint," said state education Commissioner Matthew Blomstedt.

Schuyler set out seven measurable goals  in addition to strategies for staff  to demonstrate improvement, which the state used to quantify the school's progress.

School officials pointed to a number of tangible changes, including raising the graduation rate from 82.7% in 2016 to 86% in 2022 and reducing the chronic absenteeism rate from 16% to 11%.

A nearby meatpacking plant owned by Cargill has drastically changed Schuyler's demographics over the past two decades. Schuyler High School serves just less than 600 students, 93% of whom are Hispanic.

This year alone, the school welcomed 39 students from Central America and Africa, 27 of whom had no prior educational experience.

When Schuyler first landed on the list, 25% of its students were English language learners but none were proficient on standardized assessments. This past school year, 9% reached proficiency.

The number of ELL students classified as emerging  the lowest classification on English language proficiency assessments  dropped from 86% five years ago to 38% today.

Schuyler instituted a number of strategies over the past four years, including devoting professional development time to supporting ELL students across all content areas.

The mood was one of celebration at Friday's board meeting in Lincoln. Board member Maureen Nickels recalled when Schuyler landed on the list initially.

"That was a tough, solemn day," Nickels said. "And so to sit here on my last year on the board and to know we made the right decision and you all took the bull by the horn ... this is what we want. This is what education is about."

Schuyler Superintendent Dan Hoesing said the process is an expensive one for schools that take it seriously. The district received $2 million from the state for support, Hoesing said, and the district also passed a bond to build a new gym, cafeteria and fine arts center.

"While this process started out being uncomfortable, it doesn't have to be, but there is a certain amount of uncomfortableness that will push you to change," Hoesing said. "What we want is to change your belief in who we are, remove a label because the label is not who we are."

The state is required to have no fewer than three schools on its priority school list. Santee Community Schools' elementary, middle and high schools on the Santee Sioux Nation Reservation in Knox County are the only remaining ones on the list.

Contact the writer at zhammack@journalstar.com or 402-473-7225. On Twitter @HammackLJS

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Lawmakers in southwestern Nigeria say more than 50 people are feared dead after gunmen opened fire and detonated explosives at a church. Ogunmolasuyi Oluwole with the Ondo State House of Assembly said the gunmen targeted the St Francis Catholic Church in Ondo state on Sunday morning just as the worshippers gathered for the weekly Mass. Many children were among the dead. Adelegbe Timileyin who represents the area in Nigerias lower legislative chamber says the attackers also kidnapped the presiding priest. While much of Nigeria has struggled with security issues, Ondo is widely known as one of Nigerias most peaceful states.
KYIV, Ukraine (AP)  Russia took aim Sunday at Western military supplies for Ukraine, launching airstrikes on Kyiv that it claimed destroyed tanks donated from abroad, as Vladimir Putin warned that any Western deliveries of longer-range rocket systems would prompt Moscow to hit objects that we haven't yet struck.

The Russian leader's cryptic threat of military escalation did not specify what the new targets might be. It came days after the United States announced plans to deliver $700 million of security assistance for Ukraine that includes four precision-guided, medium-range rocket systems, as well as helicopters, Javelin anti-tank systems, radars, tactical vehicles and more.

Military analysts say Russia hopes to overrun Ukraine's embattled eastern industrial Donbas region, where Russia-backed separatists have fought the Ukrainian government since 2014, before the arrival of any U.S. weapons that might turn the tide. The Pentagon said last week that it will take at least three weeks to get the U.S. weapons onto the battlefield.

Ukraine said the missiles aimed at the capital hit a train repair shop. Elsewhere, Russian airstrikes in the eastern city of Druzhkivka destroyed buildings and left at least one person dead, a Ukrainian official said. Residents described waking to the sound of missile strikes, with rubble and glass falling down around them.

It was like in a horror movie, Svitlana Romashkina said.

The Russian Defense Ministry said air-launched precision missiles were used to destroy workshops in the Donetsk region of eastern Ukraine, including in Druzhkivka, that were repairing damaged Ukrainian military equipment.

Meanwhile, Ukraines General Staff said Russian forces fired five X-22 cruise missiles from the Caspian Sea toward Kyiv, and one was destroyed by air defenses. Four other missiles hit infrastructure facilities, but Ukraine said there were no casualties.

Nuclear plant operator Energoatom said one cruise missile buzzed close to the Pivdennoukrainsk nuclear plant, 350 kilometers (220 miles) to the south, seemingly on its way to Kyiv. It warned of the possibility of a nuclear catastrophe if even one missile fragment had hit the facility.

The missiles that struck Kyiv destroyed T-72 tanks supplied by Eastern European countries and other armored vehicles, the Russian Defense Ministry said on the Telegram app.

Ukraines railway authority subsequently led reporters on a guided tour of a rail car repair plant in eastern Kyiv that it said was hit by four missiles. The authority said no military equipment had been stored there, and Associated Press reporters saw no remnants of any in the facility's destroyed building.

There were no tanks, and you can just be witness to this. said Serhiy Leshchenko, an adviser to the Ukrainian presidents office.

However, a government adviser said on national TV that military infrastructure also was targeted. AP reporters saw a building burning in an area near the destroyed rail car plant. Two residents of that district said the warehouse-type structure that billowed smoke was part of a tank-repair facility. Police blocking access to the site told an AP reporter that military authorities had banned the taking of images there.

In a television interview that aired Sunday, Putin lashed out at Western deliveries of weapons to Ukraine, saying they aim to prolong the war.

All this fuss around additional deliveries of weapons, in my opinion, has only one goal: to drag out the armed conflict as much as possible, Putin said. He insisted such supplies were unlikely to change the military situation for Ukraine's government, which he said was merely making up for losses of similar rockets.

If Kyiv gets longer-range rockets, he added, Moscow will draw appropriate conclusions and use our means of destruction, which we have plenty of, in order to strike at those objects that we haven't yet struck.

The U.S. has stopped short of offering Ukraine longer-range weapons that could fire deep into Russia. But the four medium-range High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems in the security package include launchers on wheels that allow troops to strike a target and then quickly move away  which could be useful against Russian artillery on the battlefield.

The Spanish daily El Pais reported Sunday that Spain planned to supply anti-aircraft missiles and up to 40 Leopard 2 A4 battle tanks to Ukraine. Spains Ministry of Defense did not comment on the report.

Before Sunday's early morning attack, Kyiv had not faced any such Russian airstrikes since the April 28 visit of U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. The attack triggered air-raid alarms and showed that Russia still had the capability and willingness to hit at Ukraines heart, despite refocusing its efforts to capture Ukrainian territory in the east.

In recent days, Russian forces have focused on capturing Ukraine's eastern cities of Sievierodonetsk and Lysychansk. On Sunday they continued their push, with missile and airstrikes on cities and villages in the Donbas.

In the cities of Sloviansk and Bakhmut, cars and military vehicles were seen speeding into town from the direction of the front line. Dozens of military doctors and paramedic ambulances worked to evacuate civilians and Ukrainian servicemen, and a hospital was busy treating the injured, many hurt by artillery shelling.

The U.K. military said in its daily intelligence update that Ukrainian counterattacks in Sieverodonetsk were likely blunting the operational momentum Russian forces previously gained through concentrating combat units and firepower. Russian forces previously had been making a string of advances in the city, but Ukrainian fighters have pushed back in recent days.

The statement also said Russias military was partly relying on reserve forces of Luhansk separatists.

These troops are poorly equipped and trained, and lack heavy equipment in comparison to regular Russian units, the intelligence update said, adding that the move "indicates a desire to limit casualties suffered by regular Russian forces.

Both sides in the conflict have been waging an information war, especially on television, along with military attacks. Russias Tass news agency reported Sunday that Ukrainian forces had knocked out broadcast TV service in Donetsk, where it said a broadcast tower had toppled. Ukrainian authorities did not immediately confirm the attack.

In the Azov Sea port of Mariupol, which Russia claimed to have captured in May following a brutal monthslong siege, a mayoral aide said water supplies contaminated by decomposing corpses and garbage were causing dysentery and posing a threat of cholera and other diseases.

In remarks carried by Ukraines Unian news agency, Petro Andriushchenko said Russian authorities controlling the city have imposed a quarantine. He did not describe what measures Russian authorities had included, and his report could not be independently confirmed.

World Health Organization officials warned last month about the threat of cholera and other infectious diseases in Mariupol.

Also Sunday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy traveled to the Zaporizhzhia region in the southeast, which is partly under Russian control. He received a battle report, thanked troops and met with refugees in what was only his second public visit outside the Kyiv area since the war began.

Far from the battlefield, Ukraine's national soccer players missed out on qualifying for a World Cup spot, losing 1-0 to Wales in an emotionally charged match in Cardiff. Back home, some Ukrainians gathered in bars to watch the game.

Associated Press journalists David Keyton and Hanna Arhirova in Kyiv contributed to this report.

Follow AP's coverage of the Ukraine war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine

Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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The grass isn't always greener on the other side.

That saying is appropriate if you've ever come to regret making a job change. It's a topic that Rick Kyte and Scott Rada tackle in their latest episode of The Ethical Life.

Many people have changed jobs during what's been called the Great Resignation during the COVID-19 pandemic, but those moves haven't worked out for everyone.

The conversation may give you pause if you're considering a career move.

Moving money around

This week on PennyWise, host Teri Barr spoke with Chanelle Bessette of NerdWallet about a study that shows four out of five Americans are choosing to reallocate their savings from a traditional account. They talk about the study and a few signs to keep an eye on if you are considering other savings options.

Can one film save theaters?

We all know that movie theaters have been hurting since the start of the pandemic, but there was a growing movement to turn living rooms into home cinemas thanks to increased streaming options even before 2020 shutdowns.

So can "Top Gun: Maverick" save the movie industry? It's a point co-host Bruce Miller makes during the latest episode of Streamed & Screened. It's an interesting thought that centers on whether studios should focus on fewer, but better blockbusters.

The crew also touch on other new releases, the Hulu series "Pistol" and the upcoming film on Elvis Presley.

An uneasy history between presidents and the press

The latest episode of the Utterly Moderate Podcast sheds some light on the often tense relationship between the press and sitting presidents. In fact, the two sides have clashed since the beginning of American history, and it's by design as First Amendment protections in the Constitution were put in place so a free press could hold government officials, regardless of political party, accountable.

The discussion shifts to shrinking local media coverage (there's no shortage of national reporting) and what can happen when local governments are left to operate unchecked.

Another storm season begins

June 1 marked the start of the Atlantic hurricane season, so the Lee Weather Team gathered to discuss the topic in the latest episode with special guest Joel Cline from the National Weather Service.

Benefits of medical cannabis

The Arizona Daily Star recently launched a podcast called Here Weed Go! that looks at the marijuana industry, and not just in Arizona as national topics are addressed, including pain management. The most recent episode looks at cannabinoid-based research and findings from three experts from the University of Arizona Health Sciences Comprehensive Pain and Addiction Center.

Daily news updates

And don't forget our daily news podcast Hot off the Wire that offers new episodes Monday through Friday as well as periodic bonus episodes on breaking news and enterprise topics. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode.

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A gunman suspected of fatally shooting a retired county judge at a Wisconsin home had a list that included Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers. That's according to Whitmers office and a law enforcement source. The Wisconsin Department of Justice said Saturday that 56-year-old Douglas K. Uhde, who has not been charged, is suspected of killing retired Juneau County Judge John Roemer at Roemers house in New Lisbon on Friday. Uhde was found in the basement of the home with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He's hospitalized in critical condition. Uhde has an extensive criminal record dating back two decades, including a case when he was sentenced by Roemer to prison.
My youngest child recently graduated from the same high school I attended. This milestone caused me to reflect on the education that I and my children experienced in Sioux City.

Our community experienced a fair amount of turmoil when I attended school in the mid-70s and early-80s. Population decline resulted in me attending five schools during an eight-year period.

Regardless of the building or the different socioeconomic status of students, I had access to quality, committed instructors. Although I faced challenges, I gained sufficient skills to graduate magna cum laude from Drake University.

At the same time, I recognized that I had support that others didn't have. Factors like a stable, intact family with grandparents in town, all of whom emphasized the importance of education were, and are, not universal.

Fortunately, both of my children had the same family support structure (with long-time educators as grandparents) that I had in their K-12 education journey. Their academic success is demonstrated by such things as membership in Phi Beta Kappa at Iowa State for one and an ACT score in the top five percent for the other (pardon the parental pride). While the quality and commitment of educators remained high, there were significant changes in the education environment they experienced.

Children are going to new, updated facilities where the heat and cold didn't disrupt classes. I recall visiting the old Irving Elementary where the door to the third floor would often be left open to minimize the heat at the top, but which was necessary at the bottom.

Students today have access to courses that offer credit for both high school and college. This reduces the costs of pursuing higher education and offers an opportunity to get credentials required to work. Offerings like a career academy expose students to the work environment and help prepare them for the real world.

A disadvantage now compared to when I attended was the reduced offerings in foreign languages. French, German, and Spanish were offered back in the day, compared to only Spanish now. In a time of global connection, it's too bad that one of the largest districts in the state is unable to offer a wider offering.

Schools face considerable challenges that they have not always faced. Providing instruction to all students regardless of intellectual development has not always been a task. While schools have had to work with students of diverse economic and linguistic backgrounds, they've not had quite so much diversity nor the requirements to graduate all students. My parents have noted that many of their classmates dropped out during, or before, high school, as they could earn wages to support themselves without graduating. That is no longer true.

Schools have to try to address 100 percent of student and family needs. Politicians need only to focus on getting a little over 50 percent support of those who vote. Unfortunately, some seek to gain support through unsupported allegations and accusations of a sinister agenda.

Instances of individuals and districts that go beyond what the community finds comfortable occur. Instances where they dont do enough also happen. Its easier to tear down than to build up or correct. But that is where real leadership has to step up and engage for the betterment of all.

I saw a diverse group of new North High graduates crossing the stage to receive their diplomas. I also noted the pride their families took in this achievement. Many of those students would have had no options, and limited opportunities, without our public school system. Their talents were developed as a result of the investments our community and state have made. What happens to future young people rests in our decisions on appropriate investment and accountability.

A Sioux City resident, Steve Warnstadt is government affairs coordinator for Western Iowa Tech Community College. He is a former Democratic state senator and retired Army National Guard brigadier general. He and his wife, Mary, are the parents of one son and one daughter.

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Care and Feeding is Slates parenting advice column. Have a question for Care and Feeding? Submit it here or post it in the Slate Parenting Facebook group.

Dear Care and Feeding,

My younger child, who has just turned 12, has declared himself to be a boy. Biologically, he is a girl, and until he was in fifth grade, his father and I had no notion of his identifying as a boy. He has asked me how I know Im a girl; my basic answer is, Ive got the parts. Ive asked him how he knows hes a boy, and he cant articulate whats going on for him. His older sister identifies as queer (nonbinary/asexual), and positively encourages his identity, as does his current school. He dresses mostly androgynously, with forays into florals and dresses on occasion. His behavior doesnt fit that which is generally thought to be more masculine in our culture. He dislikes competition, noise, and aggression. He goes to a small, accepting private school where I believe he is safe, but after eighth grade, he will have to go to a high school that may not be so enlightened. I fear for his safety (I think of Boys Dont Cry often) and for his well-being if other children give him a hard time. I worry particularly about the higher suicide rate among trans kids, but my childs well-being isnt just about staying alive, its about thriving. How can I help my child thrive? Why is this a trend among preteens and teens? Ive talked to other parents and grandparents who are seeing this phenomenon in the children in their lives, and who are also unsure what to make of their situations. Are our children rejecting their bodies because they are hitting puberty before theyre emotionally ready? Please help!

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Struggling in Sacramento

Dear Struggling,

First: I do not believe this is a trend. I have said this before, and I will say it until I am hoarse: The difference between now and thenwhatever your own personal then isis not that there are suddenly more trans kids, and more kids who are queer in other ways, than there used to be. The difference is that they now have the language to speak up about it. They can see others who are out and recognize themselves in them. A place exists for them in a society that used to pretend they didnt exist.

I think you are focusing on the wrong potential harm to your child (though I completely get that this is coming from a place of genuine concern, worry, and love). Rather than contemplating his future in a high school that may not be as enlightened as his current school, rather than thinking about a movie that was released 23 years agoa different era in terms of LGBTQ+ representation in popular culturethink about the harm to your child (to any childto anyone) that would be caused if he felt he could not be who he feels himself to be. I am not suggesting that youre wrong about high school, or that it would not be worth contemplating other high school options if the school youre currently planning on sending him to seems likely not to be a welcoming place; I am certainly not suggesting that youre wrong about trans kids being at higher risk for suicide. But trans kids are not at risk for suicide because they are trans; they are at risk because of their mistreatment. In other words: your worries about your childs safety and well-being are not unfoundedbut because he cannot decide not to be trans, these are worries that are of no help to him. Focus your attention on what you can do to support him. Many studies have shown that such parental acceptance is crucial, and in the absence of other social support, your support provides a bulwark.

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Your basic answer when he asks you how you know youre a girl is insufficient, Im afraid. If you want to give your son a fighting chance of a happy and healthy life, its time to educate yourself about gender identity and its relationship to the parts (which so many of us once assumed were the whole story). I wrote at some length last Sunday about what it means to be nonbinary (perhaps this will help you understand and support your older child?) but I barely scratched the surface of a discussion of gender identity. A place to startfor a succinct, easy-to-understand explanationmight be Planned Parenthoods website. But Id also take a look at Rhea Ewings Fine, Juno Roches Gender Explorers, Maia Kobabes Gender Queer, and Iris Gottliebs Seeing Gender. Some (or all) of these will also be great books to share with your child. And most important: listen to your child himself. He is telling you who he is. Your role here is to pay attention to that, to take it seriously, and to offer him your full acceptance, support, and unwavering love. Will he always be who he is today? I dont know. But if his sense of himself changes over time, your role doesnt. You cant protect him from the world around himthough you can and should do everything possible to trybut you can protect him from feeling alone, lost, misunderstood, disrespected, and unloved at home, simply by doing what a parent is meant to do: love him for who he is.

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Slate Plus Members Get More Advice from Michelle Each Week

From this weeks letter, I Dont Think My Neighbors Are Parenting Their Kid With ADHD Properly: Im worried about what messages this kid is getting from the adults around him about how hes a screwup.

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Dear Care and Feeding,

I was conceived as the accidental result of a casual relationship that dissolved shortly after my birth. Later, my dad married and had three other kids. I was never really part of this family. I was with them one weekend a month per the custody agreement, but never invited on family vacations or included in the yearly Christmas card. Now that I am an adult, we have a friendly but distant relationship. I visit my fathers family once or twice a year and call every few months, though theyve only visited me a few times over the last 15 years and have rarely called. I long ago made my peace with all of this. But things changed dramatically when I told them I was pregnant. My dad and stepmom are SO excited to welcome their first grandchild. They call me once a week and constantly ask me to come visit. My stepmom is always texting asking for ultrasound photos or baby bump photos or for updates on the nursery or whatever. I should be happy that they are excited to be grandparents, and I want my kid to have loving grandparents! But instead I feel deeply uncomfortable. Do they really care about me at all, or am I just a vessel for the baby, who is the one they actually care about? I am so busy with getting everything ready before the baby comes, and I feel emotionally overwhelmed trying to sort my feelings out about this on top of it. Im also suspicious about how long this sudden interest will last and am afraid of being disappointed later. I dont know how to think about any of this or how much to let them into our life. Do you have any advice for me?

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Emotional 180

Dear Emotional,

First, lets take what you should feel off the table. You feel what you feel, and Im not surprised that you feel uncomfortable, overwhelmed, and suspicious, or that you want to protect yourself from disappointment. Second, you get to control how much access and involvement your father and stepmother will have with your pregnancy and with your child. And third, you dont have to make a decision about this now that you stick to forever. You can decide to keep them at arms length now (or at half an arms length, or whatever feels right to you) and then decide later to tentatively offer more access and see how that feels (and withdraw it if it doesnt feel right!). I cant tell you, of course, whether they really care about youif something has been awakened in them at long lastor if they are seeing you only as a vessel for their future grandchild. But these arent the only two possibilities. I am an optimist, and thus I try to imagine the best possible scenario or explanation for any given situation. I suppose its possible that previous circumstances (the custody arrangement, family dynamics) have made it difficult for them to know how to express their love or interest, and your pregnancy has given them the excuse, or just the opportunity (as they see it) to jump in. But I am a realistic optimist, so I know it is equally possible that they are responding only to the novelty of the situation and that they will indeed disappoint you, especially once their younger children provide them with grandchildren. Rather than try to figure this out on your own, why not consider having an honest conversation with them about the way you feel? They may get defensive; they may deny that they excluded you, or bombard you with rationalizations for it. But if you want to go slowwhich is what I would adviseand offer them somewhat less contact (and updates and photos) than they would like right now, providing context for your decision will be helpful. While it cannot possibly come as news to them that you have noticed that theyve treated you differently from your stepsiblings, they may not know how much that has hurt you. Tell them. Then see what happens and proceed accordingly.

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Submit your questions about parenting and family life here. Its anonymous! (Questions may be edited for publication.)

Dear Care and Feeding,

Ive just cut ties with my grandmother, and Im not sure whether I made the right choice. My grandmother has always been like a second mother to me, but shes a deeply bitter, manipulative, and selfish person. Since weve always had a special relationship, I fooled myself into thinking she couldnt hurt me the way Ive seen her very deeply hurt so many others (including my mother and sister) but of course my time finally came.

My fiance and I got engaged a year and a half ago (our wedding is three weeks away), and shes been continually offering excuses not to come to the wedding. Her first excuse was that her ex-husbands wife might be there (she wont). Next, it was because her ex-husbands daughter, who was conceived during his affair back in the 70s, would be there (shes a sweet woman who obviously had no say in the matter of being born). Her final excuse: she broke her wrist a few months ago (shes been cleared by multiple doctors and physical therapists who have outright encouraged her to attend). I wrote her a letter telling her how much her not wanting to be there for me has hurt me, and telling her just how big a deal this is. She ignored it. So I showed up at her doorstep today and told her how shed made me feel. During that conversation, she dug into her excuses, but still insisted that shell always be there for meonly thats obviously not true.

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I ended the conversation telling her that because of how shes hurt me, I wouldnt be able to keep her in my life. Because only those who actually show up for us and care about us deserve to be in our lives, right? But I just dont know. While I rationally feel I made the right choice, Im really struggling with this void I feel in my heart. I mean, shes my grandma! I know I could rekindle a relationship with her down the road, but for me to feel good doing that Id need her to actually apologize for how shes hurt meand she never apologizes for anything. I dont want a superficial relationship with someone who doesnt respect me or care about me. Did I make the right choice?

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Grieving Granddaughter

Dear Grieving,

Allow me to point out (again; see my response to Emotional 180 above) that no decision you make about your grandmother is immutable or irrevocable. You can decide not to be in contact with her now and to resume contact later. You can decide to walk back your decision to cut her out of your life and then cut her out later. You can decide to keep her in your life but put certain boundaries in place. Etc. We often feel like we have to make a decision once and for all but that is rarely true. Very few decisions cannot be undone.

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Another piece of this jigsaw puzzle is your sense of what you are supposed to do (if someone doesnt show up for you, you are supposed to cut ties with her). Dont worry about such rules or blanket advicethey dont take individual human beings and their relationships into account. Look, I dont know why your grandmother is behaving this way right now. On the surface of it, it makes no sense (if you have been the one exception to her own rule of treating people badly). But something is going on. If I were you, I would ask her forthrightly. Grandma, I love you. Its clear youre making excuses about my wedding, and I just want to know why you really dont want to come. There must be a reason. It may not be a reason that seems logical to you (it may not be a reason that is logical, period), but there is one. Does she feel that her relationship with youthe only one in the family with whom she is closeis endangered by your getting married? Is she afraid she will be left out of your life? Or is something else entirely going on? Does she attend family gatherings of any kind, ever? Does she attend any events when a lot of people are present? Do they make her uncomfortable, or fearful?

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Possibly none of these things are truepossibly she really is just a mean old woman and youre right, her true nature is at last emerging. But given that she has been like a mother to you, and that you are now grieving at a time when youd hoped to be full of joy, its worth doing a little digging. And even if you conclude that, nope, there is no real reason except plain selfishness and ugliness, which mysteriously had not played a part in your relationship with her until now, and you cant bear to be in contact with her, that doesnt mean you have to stick to your guns if it turns out you miss her. Be gentle with yourself. (That is one of the few rules about how to live that I subscribe to. That, and these: Be kind to others. Give people the benefit of the doubt. Treat everyone with respect. And dont be afraid to ask that others treat you with respect, too.)

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Catch Up on Care and Feeding

 If you missed Fridays column, read it here.

 Discuss this column in the Slate Parenting Facebook group!

Dear Care and Feeding,

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My son is almost six. From day one, he has always preferred my husband to me. Ive been hearing from everyone how this is only a phase, but I dont get the impression it will change. Even when my husband is frustrated with him, my son still prefers him over me. Neither of us hits or screams at him, but when there is discipline to impose, its my husband who generally does it so that I dont look like the bad guy. None of this seems to make any difference. Im always there for him if he wants me; I try to get interested in what he likes and plan Mommy time around thatstill, at best, he tolerates me as a way of biding time until Daddy returns. At this point, I dont see any reason to continue forcing him to spend time with me. Im not willing to wait and see if he comes around, as the pediatrician says I should, because who knows if he ever will. Its one of the reasons Im considering leaving my marriage (not the only one), and if I do, I will give up my parental rights because its only going to get worse if we split: he will certainly not want to leave his father to spend time alone with me. I know that abandoning a child sounds like a dreadful thing to do, but this is a child who truly dislikes me (he even prefers if I dont have dinner with him and my husband). Im confident that if I leave my son permanently, I will be able to look him in the eye at 30 and say, Even though you were six, you chose this. Please dont tell me to consult a therapist. Weve already been to counseling: my son ended up preferring the counselor to me. My husband is convinced Im doing something to make my son feel this way, but we dont know what that could be and neither did the therapist. Im not seeing other options aside from leaving or being invisible in my own home.

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Unwanted Mother

Dear Unwanted,

Well, I do think it would be helpful for your son to be seeing a therapistfor his own sake, not for yours (I dont think his preferring the counselor to you means that therapy was a failure, although I recognize that it didnt do anything to make you feel better or to improve your marriage). In your shoes, I would have my child in weekly therapy with a therapist who comes highly recommended and who specializes in seeing children. In your shoes, I would also wait this out and see what therapy ultimately reveals. But then I have no idea what the other factors are that have you considering leaving your marriage, nor can I picture what the last six years have been like if your child has preferred his father to you since day one.

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I realize that I am experiencing a failure of imagination here, but this doesnt surprise me. I just wrote an entire novel that explored (among other matters of family and other relationships) mothers leaving their children, but it is the abandoned children who are among my protagonists, not the mothers who left. I realized while writing that book that I could not enter the consciousness of those mothers, because I didnt know how to. It doesnt help you, I know, for me to say that I cant imagine doing what you are contemplating doing. But perhaps it will help if I tell you that giving up your son will have irrevocable repercussions that you can never, ever take back or repair. This is something that cannot be undone. Looking your son in the eye 24 years from now and telling him that he drove you away will not help him be at peace with your having abandoned him; it will be an effort to absolve yourself of doing something truly awful.

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Walking away from a marriage that is making you unhappy is one thing; walking away from a child is something else entirely. Arent you perhaps looking for a way out of what you describe as a bad marriage? What if your one-on-one time with your child, in the wake of a divorce, brought you closer to him? Do you want to be close to him? Do you want to be his mother? If the answers to these questions are no, I hope you will seek help, both for your own sakebecause this, it seems to me, would be a very painful place to beand for your childs.

Michelle

More Advice From Slate

My husband and I are parents to an amazing 20-month-old boy. Before I became pregnant, my husband and I went out weekly with co-workers after work. My husband still attends these and ends up getting sloshed. I love staying home, and Im over these get-togethers, but my husband insists I need to get out more and should come along. What should I do?
Davis, a Rocky Mount native, is seeking the Republican nomination for the 39th District, the boundaries of which were redrawn to cover Franklin County following the 2020 census.
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Outside a war-damaged house in the settlement of Lesnoe near Kharkiv, eastern Ukraine, local woman Tatyana was singing her heart out while friends, neighbours and dogs watched and listened to her moving performance of a Ukrainian song one May afternoon, with shelling in the distance.

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Ukrainians have repelled Russian forces from Kharkiv, though the second-largest city in the country continues to be shelled.

Standing opposite the lady, wearing her helmet and press vest, Slovak-American photojournalist Nadezda Tavodova Tezgor, whose first name means "hope" in Ukrainian, was also absorbed in the power of that song as she waited for the right moment to grab her Nikon camera and take pictures of Tatyana.

Hope [nadiya] dies last, the woman told Tavodova Tezgor after she nailed the song.

In her early days, Tavodova Tezgor, 43, might have become a ballet dancer had a ballet teacher not told her that she should not dance due to scoliosis. Instead, she pursued photography  another passion of hers, working her way up to become a war photographer and correspondent.

Capturing the truth
Kicking off a busy stretch of Grand Circuit racing in June, a pair of Somebeachsomewhere Stakes divisions on Saturday (June 4) at Woodbine Mohawk Park offered a mini preview of next Saturdays Pepsi North America Cup eliminations.

Magical Arthur came out on top in a wild $80,000 Somebeachsomewhere division for driver Trevor Henry and trainer Anthony Beaton.

Competing in a field of five, Magical Arthur and Henry blasted to the lead, posting a :27.1 opening quarter. Favourite Stonebridge Helios and driver Bob McClure got away fifth and were on the move entering the backstretch. That move then sent Beach Glass and driver Paul MacDonell out of the two-hole to come around, but the lead change wasnt without some battle.

After hitting the half in :55, Beach Glass was overtaken by Stonebridge Helios, who led by three-quarters in 1:23. The top two engaged in a battle down the lane, but Magical Arthur got the last laugh, powering by on the outside to win by a half-length over Beach Glass in 1:50.3. Stonebridge Helios was third while Frozen Hanover was fourth.

A gelded son of Artspeak, Magical Arthur was winless in three starts this season prior to Saturdays race. The homebred for David Lumsden now has four wins and $271,453 in earnings.

Tonight, he had a chance to race and he proved hes as good as them, said Henry of Magical Arthur. They are two nice horses and I thought I could get up for second, Bobby [McClure] was pecking at [Stonebridge Helios] at the head of the stretch and I thought I might get second, but I didnt really think I could beat [Beach Glass], but he did.

Magical Arthur paid $13.90 to win.

Top "Cup" contender Pebble Beach went coast to coast to win the first $81,000 Somebeachsomewhere division in 1:51. Driver Todd McCarthy sent the Noel Daley trainee to the lead immediately and got full control, posting fractions of :27.1, :56.1 and 1:24.1 before snapping a :26.4 kicker to secure the victory.

I was pretty fortunate to get cheap [fractions], said McCarthy. Ideally I do like to race him off a helmet, having him out front there tonight I was a little concerned how he would be, but he finished up really strong and I was super happy with him.

Kolby Two Step rallied to finish second, beaten 2-3/4 lengths behind the winner. Sport Secret and Chucky Hanover completed the top four.

A son of Downbytheseaside, Pebble Beach picked up the first win of his three-year-old season. The Daley trainee raced from off the pace in his season's debut on May 21 at The Meadowlands, pacing a final three-quarters of 1:20 to finish second.

Pebble Beach stamped himself as a pre-season Cup favourite following an 11-start rookie campaign that included seven wins, $361,250 earned and a mark of 1:48.4. He is owned by Patricia Stable, Joe Sbrocco, Country Club Acres and Laexpressfoderadeovolente.

A $2 win ticket on Pebble Beach returned $2.40.

Both of Saturdays Somebeachsomewhere division winners are eligible to the Pepsi North America Cup.

To view Saturday's harness racing results, click the following link: Saturday Results - Woodbine Mohawk Park.

(Woodbine)
As soon as Emily Peck starts walking among the fenced-in pig pens, the concert begins.

Some of those in the grassy pastures of Stafford County grunt as she approaches. Others oink. Some let out a combination of the twomaybe a groink?along with a chorus of snorts and squeals, barks, cries and high-pitched whines.

Pigs are loud, Peck pointed out, busily moving from one group to another on a steamy morning.

While the 28-year-old has been a horse person for years, shes also partial to pigs, and got a black pot-bellied one named Leo as a wedding present. But the dozens of swine gathered around her on a recent hot day are not ones she and husband Brandon bought after they married in 2015.

Theyre ones saved from demise when their owners realized that pigs advertised as teacup size became more like soup bowls. Abandoned pigs sometimes were found roaming rural roads of the Middle Peninsula, where Peck used to live.

Not a lot of people adopt pot-bellied pigs, and she always came to the rescue for us, said Jacky Wilson, a senior officer with the Gloucester County Animal Control Shelter near Williamsburg. She was just a super-sweet soul who took in animals because she had the space.

Peck was able to care for animals when her parents, Ken and Eileen Gedicke, ran a campground in Gloucester. The animal operation snowballedas rescues often doand the Gedickes and Pecks decided to go whole hog.

They sold the campground and bought the 114-acre Willowdale Farm in the White Oak area, several miles off State Route 218. The rescue Peck started in 2016 at the campground evolved into Campfire Critters Animal Sanctuary as the group earned nonprofit status in 2020 and moved to Stafford a year ago.

Theyve spent months carving large pastures into smaller fields and adding shelters for pigs and horses, alpacas and llamas, goats and donkeys, rabbits and barn cats. They havent openly advertised their shelter, which is primarily for abandoned farm animals, but word of mouth has spread.

Campfire Critters currently has a menagerie of more than 80 animals. More will be accepted when proper pens, fences and space are available, Peck said. Donations and grants have helped to this point, but Campfire Critters is looking for local volunteers and funding.

We have the land, she said. I have a plan of where everything could go if we had the money to do it.

OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY

Campfire Critters is hosting an open house from 14 p.m. on Sunday to give the public a chance to take in the sights and sounds of the farm. The address is 160 Willowdale Lane, Fredericksburg. There will be pony rides, a petting zoo, games and food trucksall vegetarian, of course.

Admission is free but donations are required with an activity called Cow Encounters.

More information is available at campfirecritters@gmail.com, or on Campfire Critters Animal Sanctuary website or Facebook page.

Merilyn Highfield lives near the sanctuary and serves on its board of directors. Her late father-in-law owned Willowdale Farm and shes thrilled with the work of the new owners.

Its so wonderful how much progress theyve made, said Highfield who also volunteers at the farm and has seen Pecks pace. She does 95% of the work at this point.

Thats in addition to the job from which earns Peck a salarygiving riding lessons and training horses at the newly built barn and show ring on the property.

Peck also is the mother of two sons under age 3. She said she doesnt believe in sending children to day care, so her husband and mother watch the boys while shes working.

Like Peck, Highfield is fond of pigs. She calls them whip smart and says shed put their intelligence level up against dogs any day of the week. But there also are plenty of other four-legged critters that need attention.

Theres a lot of work to be done, even socializing animals that have never been socialized, Highfield said. You can be a professional petter, just sit there and pet them or be near them and not be scary and wait until they come around.

CONSISTENCY AND LOVE

Peck got Sydney and Sicily, mother and daughter Arabian horses, from a kill pen in North Carolina. They were slated for slaughter because each has a gait thats slightly off of the trot, Peck said, and neither was ever ridden.

These two were completely untouchable when they got to us in November, Peck said. It wasnt even formal training or anything. Honestly, it was just consistency and love. They decided it was OK, and now they stand there and let us pet them.

While the Arabians were a little jumpy from the clicking of a cameras shutter, Sydney still approached visitors and rubbed her muzzle against them.

In another field, goats climbed into the utility vehiclessometimes when riders were still aboardlooking for food or attention. A feisty girl named Mary Poppins grabbed a notebook from a reporters hand and tried to steal her water bottle. Another goat named Baathoven rubbed his head against the visitors, then climbed into the front seat of the vehicle as if he were ready for a rideor to take the wheel.

Livestock that couldnt be caught when a nearby farmer got out of the cow-calf business also have become part of Campfire Critters. Brandon Peck spent a lot of time with them and they are friendly to the point of getting too close for comfort.

Three cows and seven calves were named after characters in childrens bookstheres always a theme with the namesand a red Angus named Clifford the Big Red Moo stuck a stinky large head into the utility vehicle.

Peck gently pushed it back, saying: Can you get your cow-poop ear off of me?

Like every other animal on the place, the cattle will live at the sanctuary until they die or are euthanized as part of what Peck calls a mercy kill. That may eventually be the fate of Spartan, a quarter pony with a genetic disease which causes his skin to stretch and tear.

Peck regularly checks the sheet draped over him for new signs of blood. Just rubbing against a fence will cause his skin to rip.

Basically, hell stay here for as long as hes comfortable, she said.

LIVE IN PEACE

The only animals not interested in human contact seemed to be a few skittish donkeys and alpacas and the barn cats that do not make their presence known. Soon after moving to the county last year, Peck contacted Stafford County Animal Control to offer the farm as a resource. Stafford doesnt get many livestock, but has feral cats and asked Peck if she could take them, said Nicole Bates, animal shelter manager.

After the cats were vaccinated, spayed or neutered, they have the run of the farm and can live their lives in peace with an endless food supply, according to the sanctuary website.

Bates looks forward to more interaction with Campfire Critters and Peck.

She seems very willing to help and get involved, Bates said. Were very excited to see in the future what we can send over her way.
Students with a passion for working with animals are finding their place in the veterinary technology program at Eastern Wyoming College (EWC).

Enrolled students have two options, earning an Associate of Applied Science degree or a veterinary aide certificate.

Our whole goal is to get (students) licensed in the state, actually pass the VTNE to get their license, Dr. Colleen Mitchell, veterinary technology department program director at EWC, said. Vet Tech National Exam is the national test. Once they pass, that allows them to go to any state that they want to and just do an application in that state.

Mitchell, who has been teaching at EWC since 2014 after a career as a veterinarian in private practice, said the two-year vet tech program requires completion of 74 credit hours both in the classroom and lab as well as three externships for 400 hours at two different veterinary clinics. EWC also offers a vet aide certificate that students can earn in one year by completing 30 credit hours.

Mitchell said the difference between the two is that a vet aide can work in a clinic or boarding kennel with less clearance for some responsibilities. A licensed vet tech could handle anesthesia or perform surgery assistance for example, while a vet aide could not.

You have to be a licensed vet tech to give injections in some states, Mitchell said. So it varies from state to state for what the requirements are.

The curriculum covers both large and small animals, throwing in a few exotics when opportunities arise. Mitchell said the majority of hands-on learning is small animals, like dogs and cats, but there are large animal opportunities including extra curriculum offered through the EWC ag programs.

If students are interested in large animal, we have a couple extra general techniques one and two, they can do for large animal, she said. And then they also with the college can take ag classes, like the horseshoeing class is offered through the animal science department. So, since theyre students in the college, they still can take those classes, even though they dont count for their vet tech degree, but they can get that experience.

In addition to learning veterinarian practices with dogs, cats and typical large animals, the students take an exotics class and lab. The EWC vet tech department is equipped with vivarium care areas or designated spaces for care and handling of animals that include a typical dog kennel, cat house and large animal facilities as well as rooms specifically designated for birds or rodents. Currently, there is a room with bird species that is home to six birds and another room housing a pair of active white rats, guinea pigs including a hairless variety, and a pair of social, though nocturnal, hamsters. As part of the vet tech program, all students are required to spend time in the vivariums practicing animal care.

We have a vivarium which we have birds and other animals in because thats whats going to happen in the clinic they work in, Mitchell said. Everybodys going to do everything so they will have to help out and we want them to know theyre going to be required to do that when they go to most practices. Also with the vivarium, the students get more fulfilled with familiar behavior like what they eat and that type of thing.

The EWC department works closely with the local shelter to provide animals for students to learn from as well as to place those animals in caring homes per state and USDA requirements.

In addition to vivarium care responsibilities, students have learning time in the classroom and lab time where there will be hands-on learning opportunities.

They typically will have three hours of lecture and two hours of lab, Mitchell said. Thats kind of the average, depending on what class it is, so I would say they spend at least a third of their time doing hands-on.

Hands-on learning consists of common surgeries such as spay, neuter and tumor removal as well as a vast expanse of laboratory testing skills.

Its page after page with the to-do list of lab skills, Mitchell said. Like fecal samples, theres like five different ways that we have to show (students) how to do that.

At EWC, Mitchell and staff, are proponents of providing every student with the exposure to learn more labor required lab techniques that machines can now do, as well as how to operate older and newer model testing equipment. The department is preparing prospective vet tech students to be ready to fulfill jobs in the most cutting edge practices as well as those that do not have the equipment on-site.

The machine can give you the information or most of the information, Mitchell said. But that technician actually looking at the slide can look for parasites or maybe other things that the machine might not catch. We are really big on teaching them to do the manual ways, as well as knowing how to use the newest machines.

The program also includes a Vet Tech Club that creates fundraising opportunities throughout the year, like vaccination clinics, cleaning dog parks and dog washes, to earn money to fund students tuition or travel to regional veterinary meetings. Mitchell said the focus of the club is to go on furthering education trips and community service.

Alongside Mitchell, Dr. Susan Walker has been teaching in the vet tech program for 21 years and Dr. Monte Stokes, also a veterinarian and head of the ag department, has been at EWC for 20 years.

I like seeing the students come in, not know a whole lot and then go out and feel really confident in their skills, Mitchell said.

The EWC program boasts a high success rate for students exiting the program that have taken the VTNE or the national boards. Mitchell said the previous year, eight out of nine students from EWC passed the national exam that has a rough 54% pass rate across the U.S. and Canada.

I definitely enjoy the teaching part and seeing students progress, Mitchell said. We average about an 80% pass rate and I am proud of that. Our program is hard but the ones that are successful have no problem passing the national board test and they are getting jobs.

Nicole Heldt is a reporter with the Star-Herald, covering agriculture. She can be reached at 308-632-9044 or by email at nheldt@starherald.com.

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A few weeks ago, Robynn and I, along with my four siblings and their spouses, went to Washington, D.C., our nations capital, for a vacation to see the sites and enjoy the history.

One of the highlights for me was our visit to the Jefferson Memorial. As I stood in the rotunda of the memorial looking at the large statue of Thomas Jefferson, I was impressed with the contribution Jefferson made to this country. He and other wise men of our Founding Fathers were raised up to establish the wonderful country we know as America. Even with all the challenges facing our nation and world, America remains an incredible place to live and work.

Jeffersons contributions were not only to the independence and governing system we enjoy in America today, I also appreciate the love Jefferson had for agriculture. In a letter written to a British agricultural writer named Arthur Young, Jefferson said, Agriculture has ever been amongst the most favorite amusements of my life. Further, one writer (Thomas Donald in 1889), went so far as to say that if Mr. Jefferson had done nothing else save to aid mans knowledge of agriculture, he would have been a benefactor.

Thomas Jefferson was also the primary driver to facilitate the Louisiana Purchase in 1803 from France which added over 800,000 square miles to our expanding nation. Much of this acquired land has been developed into the breadbasket of the nation  and in fact, for much of the world. I think Mr. Jefferson would be pleased to see the many advancements in agriculture that have evolved over the 219 years since these 800,000 plus square miles were added to the United States.

The North Platte Valley where we live was part of that 800,000 square mile addition and has certainly become an important generator of agricultural goods and services. The early visionaries in the Nebraska Panhandle recognized the opportunity to harness the water resource of the North Platte River and develop an incomparable canal system for irrigation. This enabled cropping systems and corresponding animal production systems to develop and flourish and expand to this day.

Along with the natural resources of land and water in this valley, another key resource developed in tandem  the human resource. It has been said that farmers and cattlemen are the life blood of the economy and I certainly do not have any argument with this statement. During the eight years we have been residents of this valley, we have met many incredible, caring, hardworking people. We also see the next generation of agriculturalists ready to carry on the traditions of their progenitors in the Panhandle.

I recall words spoken by Paul Harvey to the Future Farmers of American convention in Kansas City in 1978 titled So God Made a Farmer. This masterpiece speech was later made even more popular when Ram Trucks used it in their Super Bowl XLVII commercial. If you havent read or heard this speech lately, pull it up on your phone and read it, or listen to it again on YouTube.

In my opinion, it truly represents the qualities of those we call farmer and agriculturalists. I think you will agree.

Since I began with reference to Thomas Jefferson, I will end with a quote credited to him, he believed that those who labor in the earth are the chosen people of God.

I could not concur more fully.

Have a good month  enjoy the summer.
Since 1948, Israel has been an important ally of the United States. Unfortunately, Israel has also endured a great deal of conflict with those who seek its destruction in the Middle East. Last weekend marked the 55th anniversary of Yom Yerushalayim, or Jerusalem Day, a celebration of the liberation of the city of Jerusalem from the forces of six of Israels aggressing neighbors during the Six Day War in 1967.

Today anti-Israel sentiment continues to threaten this crucial partner with whom our nation collaborates significantly on defense, intelligence, and trade. Sadly, the Biden administration and House Democrats have worked to undermine the U.S. recognition of Jerusalem as Israels capital. In defiance of Israels sovereignty over its capital, the Biden administration has also promised to reopen a consulate to Palestine in Jerusalem. Last November I joined 200 House Republicans in a letter to President Biden opposing the administrations proposal to reopen the U.S. consulate general to Palestine in Israels eternal capital, Jerusalem.

I am also a cosponsor of the Upholding the 1995 Jerusalem Embassy Law Act which would reinforce a unified U.S. embassy in Jerusalem by prohibiting the redirection of funds for the U.S. Embassy to the State of Israel to a U.S. Embassy, Consulate General, Legation, Consular Office, or any other diplomatic facility for anyone besides Israel in Jerusalem.

In addition to moving the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem in 2019  through diplomatic efforts led by President Trump and his Administration  I am pleased the United States has demonstrated significant progress in strengthening our ties with Israel and improving Israels relationships with their neighbors through the Abraham Accords, a series of agreements in which Israel normalized diplomatic relations with the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Morocco, and Sudan.

Building off that progress, this week Israel and the United Arab Emirates signed a free trade agreement to remove tariffs on nearly all bilateral trade. If ratified, it would be the most comprehensive trade deal between Israel and an Arab country.

However, concerning reports continue to emerge regarding Irans nuclear program, and President Bidens misguided attempts to re-enter the deeply flawed 2015 JCPOA agreement indicate Israels enemies remain a serious threat. Furthermore, the Chinese embassy in Israel has reportedly pressured Israel to avoid deepening ties and recognition of the independence of Taiwan.

As the strongest democracy in the Middle East, Israel is a special partner to the U.S. Our shared values and interests should be celebrated and used to strengthen our ties. I will continue working to maintain a strong relationship with Israel to help bring peace and stability to the people of the Middle East.
Imagine you are sitting at a restaurant and notice the person in the booth behind you is choking. Luckily, someone in the restaurant knows how to save them. Witnessing someone choking is scary for everyone, but its even more frightening when its your own child.

Choking is one of the leading causes of death in children under the age of 4, but you can take steps to protect your child and learn what to do in the event of a choking emergency.

How to know

Choking is when something like food or an object is caught in the back of the throat. The object blocks the top of the trachea, which causes a person to be unable to breathe properly, said Judith Prairie, a physician at Family Care Center of Mooresville.

According to Prairie, signs that a child is choking can include:

Touching their throat or neck

Coughing, wheezing, or gagging

Difficulty breathing

Making a whistling sound when trying to breath

Unable to make any sound or cry

Lips, face, earlobes, or fingernails turning blue

Loss of consciousness

What to do

First and foremost, if your child is exhibiting any of the signs of choking, its important to remain calm and not let your child see you panic.

According to Prairie, you should not put your finger in your childs mouth to remove the object as your finger could push the object deeper into your childs throat.

If your child is conscious, but cannot cough, speak, cry, or breathe, tell someone nearby to call 911 and follow the steps listed below from the American Red Cross. These steps are slightly different for babies under the age of 1.

1. Give five back blows

Bend the child forward at the waist and give them five back blows (firm hit on the back) between the shoulder blades with the heel of one hand.

*For babies: Hold the baby face down with their head slightly lower than their feet. Support the babys jaw and head with your hand. Support their weight with your knee if you are sitting and on your forearm if you are standing.

2. Give five abdominal thrusts (formerly known as the Heimlich maneuver)

Place a fist with the thumb side against the middle of the childs abdomen, just above the bellybutton. Cover your fist with the other hand. Give five quick, upward abdominal thrusts, as if trying to lift the child up.

*For babies: Turn your baby over onto their back between your arms and hands. Use two fingers in the center of the chest, lower breastbone, to perform chest thrusts. According to Prairie, make sure your fingers are not off to one side or at the bottom of your babys breast bone. Support the head and neck securely, and keep the head lower than the chest.

3. Repeat the previous two steps, alternating between five back blows and five abdominal thrusts, until the object is forced out, the child can cough, speak, cry, or breathe, or if they become unresponsive. If your child becomes unresponsive, call 9-1-1, if not already done, and begin CPR with chest compressions and rescue breaths.

If your child has trouble breathing but can still talk and has a strong cough, encourage your child to cough until the object comes out. Do not do abdominal thrusts, and watch your child closely to make sure the object comes out and doesnt shift to fully block the throat, said Prairie.

How to protect

The thought of your child choking can be scary. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take and foods to avoid to keep your child safe.

Approximately 60% of non-fatal choking hazards are caused by food items, said Prairie.

Hard candy, grapes, nuts, raw carrots, apples, marshmallows, popcorn, cheese cubes, gummy fruit snacks, peanut butter, and hot dogs are all common choking hazards for children.

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends parents cut round foods, such as grapes, cherries, and cherry tomatoes, into smaller pieces, slicing them in half lengthwise, no larger than  inch. The USDA also recommends parents cut tube-shape foods, such as baby carrots, string cheese, and hot dogs, into short strips rather than round pieces.

According to Prairie, other common choking hazards include marbles, disc batteries (button batteries), coins, balls, small toys, pen or marker caps, and safety pins.

Supervision is the single most important factor to prevent choking, said Prairie.

Its crucial to keep an eye on your baby during playtime and supervise your children while they eat to make sure they do not eat too fast.

You can also avoid choking hazards by keeping small objects out of reach, purchasing age-appropriate toys, eating food only at the table, cooking vegetables until they are soft, encouraging adequate chewing, and having a drink available for your child when eating, she said.

With a little extra attention, you can keep your children safe and protect them from choking.

Prairie practices at the Family Care Center of Mooresville, located on the second floor of Iredell Mooresville at 653 Bluefield Road. She treats patients of all ages, infants to seniors. If you would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Judith Prairie, call 704-360-6580.
The South Iredell Lions Club located in the Mooresville area has given a gift of more than $1 million to the North Carolina Lions Camp Dogwood for the expansion of new construction on the 56-acre facility located on the banks of Lake Norman in the Sherrills Ford area.

Camp Dogwood for the Blind and Visually Impaired is a summer retreat waterfront recreation complex and hosts various other waterfront experiences for those residents with disabilities from all over North Carolina. N.C. Lions Camp Dogwood began in 1967 and is now a state-of-the-art facility with dorms, offices and meeting spaces.

In a ceremony held in the cafeteria area of the Joyce Building on the waterfront of the camp, with the attendance of club members and special guests including current and past officers of the foundation, the president of the South Iredell Lions Club, Thomas Johnston, filled with emotion, presented the check of $1,033,450 to North Carolina Lions Inc. Foundation President, Karl Ernst, who thanked the club for its extraordinary and heart-felt gift.

Johnston said the gift had been an ongoing wish from club members for many years when and if their club house was sold, proceeds from the sell of the property would be given to the N.C. Lions Camp Dogwood facility. Johnston said he was so happy and proud to present this special gift to Camp Dogwood and those Lions Club members who cherished the happiness given to the visually impaired and blind throughout the the state with a special retreat designed just for them and those Lions Club members who were there in the very beginning of the camps operation and outreach in 1967.

The South Iredell Lions Clubs only request for the gift is that the proceeds would go for new construction on the campus. Even though the Lions Club sold their property, the club still meets at various locations in the Mooresville area.

Camp Dogwood for the Blind and Visually Impaired is owned and operated by NC Lions Inc. a 501(3) charitable nonprofit foundation which is made up of Lions Club members throughout North Carolina.
For the 26th year, Quest Inc. held Wine Quest, beginning with the Grand Tasting on June 3rd and continuing the following night with a plated dinner both at the Lowes Royal Pacific Resort inside Universal. Each night featured a silent auction with items including travel and dining packages, artwork, and of course, wine. The second night also featured a live auction.

I was thrilled to attend the first nights festivities to support this wonderful cause that provides services that empower children and adults with disabilities. In fact, some of the people they work with were there selling cards, candles, and soap they created. I could not resist the cards and was happy to support their efforts.

Though the registration line was daunting, once inside the Oceana Ballroom there was plenty of space to roam around and check out the offerings. Food was situated on one side of the room with offerings from the hotel including pork with rice and beans, pork with white cheddar macaroni and cheese, hot out of the oven flatbread, and chicken and beef sliders.

As the evening rolled on charcuterie was brought out, followed by coffee and sweets.

Most of the ballroom was reserved for the wine and spirit offerings. Set up a bit like a trade show, there were aisles with long tables with each brand taking up a small section, a sign high above them allowing for incredibly easy navigation.

The wine and spirit offerings at this event were truly exceptional, making it fun to try a variety of unique and tasty drinks. Of particular note were wine from Terlato and Wagner, Lallier Champagne, Grey Goose and Titos vodka, and Aperol, of course prepping summer worthy spritzes. One of my favorite finds was Casa Del Sol Tequila, a new offering on the market backed by actress Eva Longoria.

For those not drinking alcohol, a barrel of Fiji water and a full display from Nestle Waters with Panna and Pellegrino in a variety of flavors really rounded out the offerings, with something for every single person there.

After a couple failed rounds of Wine Toss, a carnival like game that reminded me I am not an athlete, and a stop at the DIY photo booth, it was time to call it a night. Next years Wine Quest is already on my agenda, and I hope it will be on yours as well.

To learn more about Quest Inc, visit their website.

You can check out the Loews Royal Pacific at 6300 Hollywood Way, Orlando, Florida, 32819 and visit their website to learn all about their offerings.
Can auroras actually make a sound? This study tells the truth.

Auroras are the stunning outcome of geomagnetic storms on Earth! These stunning captivating displays of light in the night sky occur at the northern and southern poles with spectacular views of the dancing lights. Well, for centuries, several myths and theories have revolved around them, and one of them is about the speaking auroras! Till now, scientists have dismissed these theories as psycho-acoustic phenomena. But a recent study by researchers at Aalto University in Finland has found something unusual! The study suggests a strong connection between geomagnetic fluctuations and "auroral sounds", a report by Forbes mentioned.

The northern and southern lights are mainly caused by the solar winds in space, basically charged particles from the Sun, which accelerate through the field lines of the Earth's magnetic field. Green lights are created by charged particles hitting oxygen molecules, while the other hues are caused by nitrogen molecules colliding with charged particles. According to the theory, when the conditions are just right, a pocket of heated air roughly 75 metres above the ground could store a trapped static charge that discharges when the air evaporates. Also read: Hubble Telescope captures giant star 32x larger than Sun, but it will die first! Check breathtaking NASA photo

Looking for a smartphone? To check mobile finder click here. Also read:

"This cancels the argument that auroral sounds are extremely rare and that the aurora borealis should be exceptionally bright and lively," Unto K. Laine, Professor Emeritus at Aalto University and lead author of the new paper explained. During the study, the researchers recorded four hours of auroral sounds in the west of Helsinki.

Another researcher explained that using the geomagnetic data, which was measured independently, its possible to predict when auroral sounds will happen in a particular area. Even these sounds are now more common than previously thought. The researcher explained that someone or other can hear the sounds of auroras, but they assume it as the sound of ice cracking or that the sound was created by some animal! So, it seems like the myth around the sounds of auroras isnt a myth anymore, but a reality!
Technicians lower the Mayflower Autonomous Ship into the water at its launch site on Sept. 14, 2020, for its first outing on water since being built in Turnchapel, Plymouth south west England. The sleek autonomous trimaran docked in Halifax, Nova Scotia on Sunday, June 5, 2022, after more than five weeks crossing the Atlantic Ocean from England, according to tech company IBM, which helped build it. Credit: AP Photo/Alastair Grant, File

A crewless robotic boat that had tried to retrace the 1620 sea voyage of the Mayflower has finally reached the shores of North Americathis time in Canada instead of the Massachusetts coast where its namesake landed more than 400 years ago.

The sleek autonomous trimaran docked in Halifax, Nova Scotia, on Sunday, after more than five weeks crossing the Atlantic Ocean from England, according to tech company IBM, which helped build it.

Piloted by artificial intelligence technology, the 50-foot (15-meter) Mayflower Autonomous Ship didn't have a captain, navigator or any humans on boardthough it might have helped to have a mechanic.

"The technology that makes up the autonomous system worked perfectly, flawlessly," said Rob High, an IBM computing executive involved in the project. "Mechanically, we did run into problems."

Its first attempt at the trans-Atlantic crossing to Plymouth, Massachusetts, in June 2021 was beset by technical glitches, forcing the boat to return to its home port of Plymouth, England.

It set off again from England nearly a year later on April 27, bound for Virginiabut a generator problem diverted it to Portugal's Azores islands, where a team member flew in to perform emergency repairs. More troubles on the open sea came in late May when the U.S.-bound boat developed a problem with the charging circuit for the generator's starter batteries.

AI software is getting better at helping self-driving machines understand their surroundings and pilot themselves, but most robots can't heal themselves when the hardware goes awry.

Nonprofit marine research organization ProMare, which worked with IBM to build the ship, switched to a back-up navigation computer on May 30 and charted a course to Halifaxwhich was closer than any U.S. destination. The boat's webcam on Sunday morning showed it being towed by a larger boat as the Halifax skyline neareda safety requirement under international maritime rules, IBM said.

 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Texas A&M is the states land grant university. Today it also one of the nations leading public research universities.

Its flagship campus enrolls 73,000 students and its research exceeds $1 billion annually. We recently celebrated the 10th anniversary of its Institute for Advanced Study.

The Institute has brought 88 world-class scholars to campus during its first decade. These fellows have provided, of course, their teaching and research skills but also  remarkably  tens of millions of dollars in incremental research grants.

Twelve of these fellows have joined the A&M faculty. In the past 10 years, with the aid of the Chancellors Research Initiative, the number of national academy-honored faculty members has quadrupled, an increase of almost 40 members.

I have been privileged to support this Institute and serve on its External Advisory Board. It has been quite a ride.

The brainchild of Professor John Junkins, with crucial support from Chancellor John Sharp and the Board of Regents, the Institutes basic purpose is to elevate the quality of the Texas A&M research and educational experience.

The presence of world-class fellows of the Institute reflects broad faculty support and participation, has greatly accelerated collaboration among faculty and significantly has enriched both undergraduate and graduate education.

As successful as the Institute has been in enhancing the universitys capacity and stature, it also has the potential to help us meet at least three new challenges confronting our society:

A worldwide trend toward authoritarianism is increasingly apparent; countries with full democracies are down by a fifth over the past decade and now account for only 14% of the worlds population.

Additionally, we see an epidemic of information manipulation that threatens the foundations of our democracy.

Finally, in my lifetime we have seen a shift in economic incentives: from a system where wealth acknowledged a responsibility to the common good to one that is aggressively more libertarian and encourages great wealth accumulation with no responsibility to society.

We see authoritarianism, and its consequences, most clearly in Vladimir Putins Russia. Absolutely unrestrained, Putin oversees a corrupt economy that serves oligarchs of his choosing.

He has unleashed a genocidal war on a sovereign neighbor; arrogantly, he now warns us not to supply help to Ukraine.

Through global intimidation and his tight control of internal Russian propaganda, Putin represents not only a global threat but a harbinger showing how quickly the resources and public opinion of a nation can be harnessed for evil purposes.

In the United States, an eruption of disinformation has insidiously undermined our democratic institutions: the press, our political parties, our elections, and even science are being harnessed and manipulated.

Scholars have named the use and abuse of information today The Disinformation Age. A decades-long devaluation of institutions devoted to truth telling has been augmented by algorithms behind every website and search engine which mine our emotions  our individual wants, needs, prejudices, preferred news sources, political and religious beliefs, and loves and hates.

Consequently, our society already has been manipulated into the highest degree of polarization since the Civil War.

We must strive to reverse this polarization or risk it becoming fatal to our democracy. We already have lost a great deal of our capacity simply to be honest with each other.

Fictions rather than facts dominate our political discourse. Our technology-empowered computing and information technologies are being harnessed with selfish political and economic agendas that drives us toward ever increasing balkanization of friends and foes.

Democracies require trust and people need the truth to make good decisions and sustain their democratic instincts.

Our polarization has been exacerbated by growing income and especially wealth inequality. Half a century ago, America had a more robust middle class. Today, our economic incentives have evolved to the point where the top 20 percent do very well but the other 80 percent struggle.

Very few people understand that our wealth distribution is about the same as that of China and Russia. We need to understand better how this wealth concentration affects democracy and public policy.

We could start by being honest with ourselves. As we tolerate lying and accept information manipulation, we do enormous damage to trust and transparency, and the lying becomes motivation to pass laws that address the wrong problems.

This is the wrong road for America, but it is the one we are on.

The Institute for Advanced Study cannot itself solve these dilemmas, as its focus is to connect our faculty with the top stars in their fields. On the other hand, our fellows are the best in their fields at finding enduring truths and we can and should attract more thought leaders in the social sciences who can be focal points for constructive research collaborations and education on these issues.

Education is the most effective address to our difficult challenges. Colonial Americans knew this when they established the nations first public colleges and education systems.

Abraham Lincoln extended this notion when he established land-grant universities. Those universities have helped immeasurably in advancing the production of goods and services for society and in raising the robust middle class that is now under threat.

Today, our universities must step up to an even more complex task: What should we do now to protect our democracy?

In an advanced, complex society that challenge is a formidable task. Yet, it is a mission that dovetails with Texas A&Ms history of service to the nation.

The Institute for Advanced Study seeks to extend our reach and elevate our capacity to illuminate truth and meet this complex challenge.

A longtime philanthropist to Texas A&M, Jon Haglers past gifts include support for the Corps of Cadets, the Memorial Student Center and its programs, The Association of Former Students, the Foundation Excellence Awards program and a lead gift to build and name the Jon L. Hagler Center, headquarters of the Texas A&M Foundation.
WASHINGTON  The Biden administration is getting hammered for the baby formula shortage  and deservedly so.

A whistleblower notified the Food and Drug Administration in October of unsanitary conditions at a baby formula factory, but the FDA did not shutter the plant until February, and the president took no steps to address the crisis  such as easing import rules  until May.

That is inexcusable.

But that plodding response is not the main reason parents across the country are scrambling to find formula for their babies. Neither are pandemic-related supply-chain issues.

The reason is big-government interference, which has distorted the baby formula market and produced the Soviet-style shortages we are experiencing today.

The shuttering of a single baby formula plant should not lead to bare shelves. Other food production facilities sometimes fail health inspections, but halting production at one factory does not send the entire country into crisis. Thats because we have multiple companies producing everything we eat  from meat, to vegetables, to processed foods  which means when something happens at one factory, other producers can step in to make up for shortfalls.

Not so with baby formula. Just two manufacturers  Abbott and Reckitt, the makers of Similac and Enfamil, respectively  are responsible for almost 80% of baby formula production in the United States; they have shared a virtual duopoly since the 1950s. Why? Because, as The Wall Street Journal reports, baby formula is so tightly regulated that it is nearly impossible for new entrants to break into the market.

The FDA treats baby formula like a pharmaceutical product instead of food for infants. Clinical studies and other requirements cost millions of dollars before a company can bring a product online, and the FDA subjects producers to pharmaceutical-grade regulation and inspection.

Case in point: ByHeart is the first new formula manufacturer approved by the FDA in more than 15 years. To win approval, it had to raise $190 million to cover the cost of research and development, clinical growth studies, and a host of other FDA requirements.

It took the company more than five years jumping over government hurdles to open its first manufacturing plant, which finally began production this year.

This is absurd. Except in the case of specialty formula for infants with certain medical conditions, baby formula is not a pharmaceutical product. Its food. Formula generally contains purified cows milk, whey or soybeans for protein; vegetable oils for fat; lactose for carbohydrates; and a mix of vitamins and minerals. Thats it.

No other food is regulated that way  including baby food. As every parent knows, at six months of age, babies start transitioning from formula to pureed fruits, vegetables, oatmeal and meat. Unlike baby formula, baby food is produced by many companies  from Beech-Nut to Earths Best, Gerber, Yumi, Heinz, Natures One, Happy Family and Plum Organics.

So why is it OK to give 6-month-old infants food that is subject only to basic health and safety guidelines, but the food we give them in the first six months of their lives is regulated like a vaccine?

If a single baby food plant shut down, we wouldnt see parents struggling to feed their children; other companies would happily step in and make up for lost production.

But thanks to the federal government, the shutdown of a single Abbott plant, responsible for one-fifth of all U.S. baby formula production, has left us with bare shelves and with almost no competitors ready to step in to fill the gap.

It gets worse. Government also distorts the baby formula market through the Women, Infants, and Children supplemental nutrition program. According to The Wall Street Journal, WIC has deepened the hold that major manufacturers such as Abbott have over formula sales resulting in a marketplace with little competition and little flexibility.

Under WIC, each state grants exclusive contracts to a single manufacturer in exchange for discounts. Only the winning manufacturers product can be bought with the government vouchers issued to lower-income parents.

This also increases sales to non-WIC consumers, because stores in each state tend to primarily stock the WIC-approved brand  giving the government-chosen company a near-monopoly in that state.

This is a toxic marriage of big government and big business to crowd out competition.

First government raises prices through overregulation and a lack of free-market competition, and then it justifies mass government purchases from single manufacturers by arguing these are necessary to negotiate discounts.

The discounts would not be necessary if there were more producers of baby formula competing for the business of American parents. Then store shelves would be filled with as much cheap baby formula as there is banana puree.

What is the solution?

Stop treating formula like a pharmaceutical product, except in specialty cases. Eliminate the barriers to entry that allow 80% of the market to be dominated by two manufacturers.

Treat baby formula like baby food, with common-sense measures to make sure that factories are clean and products are safe.

If we did that, then American parents would not have to worry about the Biden administrations incompetent response to this crisis  because it never would have happened in the first place.

Follow Marc A. Thiessen on Twitter, @marcthiessen.
When Honorio Bravo moved to the United States from Guatemala in 1999, he didnt have much. Now he owns two Grand Island businesses.

One of his companies is called HR Bravo Construction.

Mostly we do paint, flooring and trimwork, Bravo said. You might call it carpentry work, he added.

Bravo works in Grand Island, Lexington and Kearney. No job is too big or too small. He will fix water heaters and plugged sewers.

"I can do it, and I have the tools to do it, he said of his handyman work.

His other company is called Bravo Management LLC. Through that company, he rents out apartments and houses. Hes flipped two or three houses, and owns two, five-plexes and one six-plex.

Bravo, 41, has seven employees, two of whom are nephews.

Leaving Guatemala, he arrived in Los Angeles, where he stayed for a month and a half. In 2000, he moved to Grand Island, initially staying with a brother. Bravos first job in Grand Island was at JBS, then known as ConAgra.

He later worked in York, Hastings and Gibbon.

He received some key help on the way to having his own business.

When he worked for McCain Foods, a supervisor named Don Mitchell gave him the opportunity to be an operator. In doing so, he urged Bravo to give a chance to somebody else along the way. McCain Foods paid for Bravo to attend leadership and motivation classes at Central Community College.

Bravo also received a lot of encouragement from Mark Otto and Ben Davis of Grand Island.

During all the years of hard work, Bravo was driven by a desire to own his own house.

I dont want to be poor all the time, he said to himself. I dont want to rent all the time. I want to own my own business. I want to own my own house.

Bravo speaks fluent English, the result of a lot of hard work.

At his adult learning class, a teacher told him to write everything down and push yourself every day. Otherwise, hed never learn English.

He recorded everything he heard in class on a cassette tape. Then when he got home, instead of taking it easy, he listened to the tape and wrote down every single word.

He and his wife, Sonia, grew up in the same village in Guatemala  La Cuchilla. They were married in Grand Island.

They have five children. Juan, 17, has four sisters, Shaela, 14, Sonia, 11, Marialita, 10, and Lluvia, 8. The two older kids go to Grand Island Central Catholic.

The household also includes a dog named Johnny Bravo, and a green parrot named Kiwi.

Bravo and Sonia worked for ConAgra at the same time. She worked there for five years, he a little bit less.

We saved the money. Then we bought our first house, said Bravo, who knows that every penny counts.

They now live in a nice home on South Logan Street.

Bravo admits that hes doing well  more than well, he said, smiling.

Grand Island, he said, is a good place to start a business.

Sometimes, Bravo donates his time. If a customer doesnt have the money to pay for a job, he does the work for free.

He said hes grateful for the knowledge that God has given him. Hes learned how to manage the money you earn every single day.

To help his growth in business, Bravo has read books and watched videos. Hes also learned about adversity.

If Gods going to close one door, Gods going to open another one  a better one, he said.

Success doesnt come all at once, like an elevator going up. It comes one step at a time, he said.

He gives a lot of credit to his wife, who is 38. Bravo encourages his kids to be good people, and to show respect to others.

He now has two brothers who live in Grand Island.

Bravo doesnt have an office. He works out of his home.

His business card said HR Bravo is where honesty and quality go together.

Bravo shares another lesson hes learned:

If you dont push yourself, youre not going to achieve your goal.

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Paris, TX (75460)

Today

Scattered thunderstorms this morning, then mainly cloudy during the afternoon hours. High 84F. SSW winds shifting to NNE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies early followed by scattered thunderstorms overnight. Low around 70F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%.
President Joe Biden has decided to ban Russian oil imports, toughening the toll on Russia's economy in retaliation for its invasion of Ukraine. The United States generally imports about 100,000 barrels a day from Russia, only about 5% of Russia's crude oil exports, according to Rystad Energy. Last year, roughly 8% of U.S. imports of oil and petroleum products came from Russia. Gas prices have been rising for weeks due to the conflict and in anticipation of potential sanctions on the Russian energy sector. The U.S. national average for a gallon of gasoline soared 45 cents a gallon in the past week and topped $4.06 on Monday, according to auto club AAA. Should the US ban Russian oil imports over Ukraine war?

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Paris, TX (75460)

Today

Mostly cloudy with scattered thunderstorms mainly in the morning. High 84F. SSW winds shifting to NE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

A few clouds from time to time. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low around 70F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph.
ST. PAUL, Minn.  As student anxiety skyrockets, campus ministries are trying to help by not only offering the comforts of faith and community, but also creating collaborations with mental health professionals.

On Ivy League campuses, large public institutions and faith-based colleges, chaplains and psychologists are teaming up, informed by abundant research showing religion and spirituality can ease mental distress by providing group support and boosting personal resilience.

Were good partners, and routinely refer back and forth, said Calvin Chin, Princeton Universitys director of counseling and psychological services, which a third of students use. Were really thinking holistically about how to support a student, what they need to lead successful and satisfying lives.

On a spring Saturday afternoon close to finals week, Sadaf Shier, the Muslim chaplain at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, oversaw a celebration for the end of Ramadan where students of all faiths, or none, did stress-reducing activities like flowerpot painting and henna hand decorating.

Shier and the universitys Protestant pastor, Neil Ellingson, mingled with dozens of students on the lawn outside the Catholic chapel.

My major engagement is providing a climate where students feel their religious identity is legitimate, Shier said. Thats directly supporting mental health.

Ellingson also saw a direct connection between faith and mental health: Belief in a higher being leads students to feel that youre loved by the cosmos and you matter in this big sense.

But he added the challenge is to broaden ministrys outreach.

Students who tend to come through the door are already plugged in. How do you connect with those who arent? he said. At the time when students need this stuff the most, theyre not seeking it.

The need is indeed critical. In December, halfway through the first academic year when most colleges returned to in-person instruction, the U.S. surgeon general issued an advisory on the countrys youth mental health crisis. It found everything from sadness to suicide plans increased by more than 40% in the decade before COVID-19  and that the pandemics further impact was devastating.

Counselors are seeing distress become more widespread and more severe  particularly anxiety, which overtook stress and depression among students, according to the Association for University and College Counseling Center Directors.

Our faculty say  students seem much more overwhelmed, to be carrying a lot more anxiety, especially about coping with demands and social interactions, said Cindy Bruns, director of counseling and licensed psychologist at Central Washington University.

By fostering supportive community events where students can relearn to socialize in real life and not in always-curated social media  a skill often lost in pandemic isolation  campus ministries can have a big impact.

At Yale University, Omer Bajwa, an imam and director of Muslim life, has seen a dramatic increase in attendance at Friday prayers and Ramadan events compared to pre-pandemic times. While he said the class of 2025 has nearly double the usual number of self-identifying Muslim students, he believes attendance is also driven by how relevant chaplains have become.

We are trained to be good listeners, to ask reflective questions, to engage with people where they are, Bajwa said.

Across the country at the University of Southern California, home to 50,000 enrolled students, record numbers showed up at spirituality and wellness events  at Shabbat dinners, Buddhist meditations, Catholic Masses and pet therapy sessions.

We had 250 kids come out to pet two therapy dogs. We normally get 20 kids, said Varun Soni, dean of religious life. They were so desperate to be with each other within a context of meaning-making, that suddenly religious and spiritual life boomed in the fall.

Even before the pandemic, despair seemed to mark Generation Z, whose members were born roughly between 1997 and 2012.

Students were no longer asking me, How should I live? They started asking me, Why should I live? Soni said.

Chaplains and counselors have been teaming up for years, he said, but even though USC bolstered its wellness team by adding 60 new counselors since 2008, appointment wait times remain around three weeks.

Still, chaplains and psychologists are quick to emphasize that one cant replace the other  especially since demand is so high. By serving as students long-term mentors, chaplains can free up counselors to deal with critical care like panic attacks and suicidal thoughts.

The Newman Center at the University of Nebraska, Omaha, offers game nights and dances and also pays for weekly student counseling sessions at its residence hall, which is open to non-Catholics, too.

We arent just an activity center, we want to be a place for people to ask the big questions, said its director, the Rev. Dan Andrews. Not to have answers is a root cause of the anxiety theyre experiencing.

Also crucial is to broaden the outreach to students reluctant to approach faith leaders. Vanessa Gomez Brake, a secular humanist and the associate dean of religious and spiritual life at USC, said expanding spiritual wellness offerings for religious and nonreligious students alike should become the priority for campus ministry.

This year, for example, she partnered with the counseling center to launch a group for those processing pandemic-related grief.

At the recent Eid celebration at the University of St. Thomas, three students worked the table offering glitter, decals and ribbons to decorate mason jars and hijabs. Salma Nadir, a graduating senior and secretary of the Muslim Student Association, said Shier, the chaplain, saved us so many times with events like this that foster a welcoming community.

Its been good for my stress, to be able to talk with new people, first-year student Arianna Norals agreed.

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The marsh tackies, or Carolina marsh tackies, became South Carolina's official state heritage horse when Gov. Mark Sanford signed Senate Bill No. 1030 on June 11, 2010.

A rare breed descended from horses brought and left by Spanish explorers in the 16th century, they survived by foraging on marsh grass along the coast and have hardly changed since the colonial period. The feral horses were captured and domesticated by Native Americans, later European settlers and enslaved Africans.

In "Carolina Chansons," noted author and playwright DuBose Heyward writes that Marsh Tackies is the name given by African Americans to the little, wild horses of the Carolina coast countrys swamps and sea islands. His poem Marsh Tackies describes them as:

Browsing on the salty marsh grass,

Barrel-ribbed and blowsy-bellied,

With a neigh as shrill as whistles

And their mouths red-raw from thistles,

Marsh tackies are a smaller breed of horse ranging from 13 to 15 hands and known for their calm and resilient disposition. In 1846, James John Audubon described marsh tackies as tough as a pine knot due to their ability to adapt to new situations and not spook easily. They vary in color with little to no white markings. Their demeanor and physical attributes reinforce the belief that marsh tackies were used by Francis Marion and his men during the American Revolution, when the pioneer of guerilla warfare was hiding in the swamps, evading capture by the British who used larger horses not accustomed to the heat and terrain. The breeds unique gait, often compared to a rocking chair, was designated the Swamp Fox Trot. Tackies were also used by the Confederate Cavalry during the American Civil War and the Coast Guards Mounted Beach Patrols during World War II, monitoring beaches from Florida to North Carolina. The petite but sturdy horses were essential to agricultural and Gullah communities along the sea islands.

An 1829 issue of "The Southern Agriculturist" includes a letter from S.A.S who describes raising plantation horses on his farm. He writes that about twenty odd years ago, I commenced raising them, and purchased a very small mare  she was then with foal, which foal is still alive, and does little jobs about the plantation, carting straw, manures, hoops for the coopers; being so very old, she must be indulged. I have great many running at large, in and about the plantation, they are very domestic, never go far from home, and are always loitering about the plantation, and in the broad-road, give no trouble, are never fed, and no further notice taken of them, than to bring them up every night along with the cattle, with whom they herd, and go into the same pen. While it is not confirmed that the writer is raising marsh tackies, the writer is indeed describing South Carolinas official state heritage horses temperament and one of its many roles in history.

The Carolina Marsh Tacky Association, formed in 2007, advocates preserving the breed and bringing awareness to the breeds history. Following its formation, the CMTA located marsh tackies around the state and conducted DNA tests to ultimately create a breed registry with the Livestock Conservancy, a nonprofit whose mission is to protect endangered livestock and poultry breeds from extinction.

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Mobile unit testing, medical case management and prevention education are among the expanded services one of the states largest community health centers is offering to combat the rising numbers of HIV in the Lowcountry region.

Family Health Centers Inc. hosted an HIV symposium recently in its new state-of-the-art training center in Orangeburg. Dr. Bambi Gaddist, who serves as a co-director of the Rural Center for AIDS/STD Prevention, was the keynote speaker.

Gaddist said it was time to rekindle the fire when it came to promoting awareness and education of HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.

How is it after 40-something years, were finding ourselves in the same predicament we were in, where people are telling us, 'Oh, they still got AIDS? Thats still a problem? I thought you handled that, she said.

So when I say rekindle, it means to begin burning again, and Im not talking about syphilis either. Somewhere weve lost it. Somewhere we used to talk about it. What were trying to do is rekindle it, Gaddist said.

Selena L. Lowery, MBA, MA, is director of HIV services at the FHC.

Lowery said the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Controls 2020 epidemiologic profile of HIV and AIDS in its Low Country Public Health Region, of which Orangeburg, Bamberg and Calhoun counties are a part, revealed some alarming statistics.

What we saw in that was Orangeburg County in particular is the fastest growing county in the Lowcountry in terms of new HIV cases. That resonated with me, she said.

Orangeburg County had the highest rate of new infections with 32.9 cases per 100,000 people, outpacing Charleston County with its rate of 18.6 cases per 100,000. Bamberg Countys rate of new infections stood at 7.1 per 100,000 people, while Calhoun Countys rate came in at 10.4 cases per 100,000.

FHCs HIV prevention and care services include: free rapid HIV testing; medical case management; STI screenings; mobile unit testing; HIV prevention and education; primary care; and behavioral health.

The facility will also provide pre-exposure prophylaxis, or PrEP, medicine taken to prevent getting HIV. The Centers for Disease Control reports that PrEP is highly effective for preventing HIV when taken as prescribed, reducing the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99% and from injection drug use by at least 74%.

We want to partner with your church health ministry, we want to partner with your schools, wed like to partner with the hospitals, with other health care professionals within the community  and not just in Orangeburg County, Lowery said.

Gaddist said too many people still dont know about PrEP or other preventive measures.

We have injectable HIV prevention. People dont have to take a pill every day. They can get an injection, and it can last for months. Theres a lot of other things that are available to use now, but if our people dont know about it, and we dont offer it, then what good is it? she said, noting that health care must be coupled with compassion and love.

We got stigma. Its still alive and well. Thats why were still in the situation were in. People here still hearing HIV and saying, I dont want nothing to do with it.  We need to deal with the elephant in the room, and Im talking about with us.

We cant blame the other community. We cant blame the white community. We got homework to do at home. Sometimes we have to talk to people who are sitting in authority, and it isnt a comfortable place, Gaddist said.

Lowery was joined at the symposium by her team members, including Almanda Holiday, medical case manager; Antonio Gathers, lead prevention navigator; Jamaar Wilson, community health specialist; and Rhonda Thomas, outreach coordinator. The team also includes nurse practitioner Towanna Enoch, who was absent from the conference.

Lowery said the FHC has two mobile units complete with two exam rooms. One is currently being taken out among Orangeburg, Bamberg, Calhoun and upper Dorchester counties.

What were looking to do is go into some of the most vulnerable areas to provide access to services that generally have not been available to those communities. ... Weve been reaching out in the very, very rural areas, she said.

Lowery continued, Now we are offering community-based testing. We try to do it with incentives just to get people used to testing, and were trying to put different communities on a three-month rotation.

She said the goal is to get people accustomed to testing and to get those who dont have HIV accustomed to hearing the message about preventing it.

Gaddist said the mobile units will be crucial in helping to create health care access, particularly in the South.

We got more new infections in the South. Fifty-two percent of HIV as of 2019 was in the South. Were talking about the South where folks got to drive to get to an appointment. Were talking about why its critical to have a mobile unit and take services to people. Lets talk for real. Getting a ride is not easy when you live in a rural area and you got to drive 45 or 50 miles up and back, she said.

Gaddist said all hope is not lost, but it will take a concerted effort among the entire community to reignite initiatives which were once standard in the fight against HIV/AIDS, including town hall meetings.

Weve got to rekindle what we are doing. Were trying to approach different spaces, nontraditional partners. ... At the end, we can fight this. We can do something about this, and Im convinced that its going to require just whats in this room, she said.

FHC Chief Executive Officer Leon Brunson said the expanded HIV services were made available through grant funding.

We got a bunch of grants in for HIV. When I took a look at this two years ago and looked at the data, we had to do something in the community. So we started applying for grants. We got over $2 million to run this program with, and we just applied for another $3 million to continue work in this area, he said.

For more information on HIV prevention services, call the FHC at 803-531-6900 or 866-506-9342 or visit online at www.myfhc.org.

Contact the writer: dgleaton@timesanddemocrat.com or 803-533-5534. Follow "Good News with Gleaton" on Twitter at @DionneTandD

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The late Calhoun County native Othniel Henry Wienges Jr. was perhaps one of the most well-known horse breeders in South Carolina, winning numerous state and industry honors.

Wienges was chosen 13 times as "South Carolina Breeder of the Year" by the national Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association. The South Carolina Owners and Breeders Association named its annual award after Wienges, who was the first recipient.

In 1974 he was also presented the "Man of the Year Award in New England Racing" by the Northeastern Sportswriters Association.

Wienges also served for a time in the S.C. House of Representatives.

His service and contributions to the state were recognized as a portion of Colonel Thomson Highway (U.S. 601) was dedicated May 21 as "Othniel Wienges, Jr. Memorial Highway." Wienges died April 2, 2013, at the age of 88.

"He is just really representative of Calhoun County," Rep. Russell Ott, D-St. Matthews, said. "He loved Calhoun County."'

Ott, who was the primary sponsor of the S.C. House resolution making the honor possible, said Wienges was someone he looked up to growing up and was a mentor to him. He helped guide Ott during his days at the University of South Carolina and Clemson University.

"I thought this was a nice tribute to the family and him," Ott said.

Two signs were placed on the approximately 2-mile stretch of road north of St. Matthews. The stretch is from the intersection with Inabinet Road to the town limit.

The signs are located close to the place Wienges called home.

Family members and friends of Wienges were in attendance at the sign-unveiling ceremony.

John Wienges, Othneil's son and reading clerk of the South Carolina Senate, had the opportunity to read the concurrent resolution when it came before the Senate. The moment was one filled with emotion.

"It was very humbling," John said. "It was very unexpected and my dad would have been tickled beyond belief. He loved Calhoun County and he loved helping people."

"Our family was just delighted for Russell to do this to honor him," John said. "My dad is somewhere smiling. He would never have expected that. He would certainly be very honored."

Wienges said he gets to ride by the signs each day.

"When I see that sign, I think of my Dad," he said.

Born in 1924 and named after his father, Wienges grew up in St. Matthews on the Singleton Plantation, which his grandfather had acquired in the late 19th century.

He learned horse breeding with his father, who first raised Standardbreds (used for trotting and pacing races), shifting to Thoroughbreds in the mid-20th century, which specialize in flat racing.

Wienges became a horse breeder and took over his family plantation operating as O.H. Wienges & Sons Stables.

He was active in the horse industry in the state for decades and raced his horses along the East Coast.

His most successful stallion was the Mr. Prospector horse Kokand, which "sired progeny who earned more than $14 million and 10 stakes winners, including half-million dollar earner Big Rut."

An alumnus of the University of South Carolina, Wienges was chairman emeritus of the board of trustees and a founding member of its educational foundation.

He served in the S.C. House of Representatives as a Democrat for 10 years (1962-72), nine of those on the influential Ways and Means Committee.

He served on the S.C. Commission on Higher Education. He was honored with South Carolinas highest civilian award, The Order of the Palmetto, in 2004.

Wienges was also active in numerous agricultural and other civic organizations in South Carolina, several related to his alma mater, the state university.

The same year he was also named Citizen of the Year by the Calhoun County Rotary Club.

He also served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy during World War II.

His ship participated in landings including Leyte, Mindanao and Subic Bay in the Philippines, and Saipan and the Mariana Islands.

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Donald Trump tried to purge two Georgia Republicans -- Gov. Brian Kemp and Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger -- for committing one unpardonable sin: standing up to the former president and telling the truth, that he lost the state to Joe Biden by more than 11,000 votes.

Trump failed. Badly. And that outcome inspires a crucial question: Will it encourage other Republicans to defy Trump, to reject his Big Lie that the 2020 election was rigged against him, and seek new leadership for the party?

Plenty of Republicans hope so, including Bill Palatucci, the GOP's national committeeman from New Jersey. He described Trump's embarrassing defeat to the Washington Post: "This is an important one. Him losing gives people courage to speak out."

Trump remains the most ferocious force in Republican ranks, but Palatucci makes a shrewd point. Political influence is often a function of perception, not reality. Politicians treat a figure as powerful because they think others support him or fear his ability to punish them for disloyalty.

But once that perception is punctured, once that fear begins to fade, calculations can start to change. That's why "the emperor has no clothes" is such a powerful myth and metaphor. That's why we remember that iconic scene when the Wizard of Oz turns out to be a little man behind a curtain, peddling his illusions as fast as he can.

Trump has had plenty of success this election season. His endorsement clearly pushed two candidates to victory in crowded Republican primaries: J.D. Vance in Ohio's Senate race and Doug Mastriano in Pennsylvania's gubernatorial contest. But in backing former Sen. David Perdue to challenge Kemp in Georgia, Trump showed that he's no wizard.

"David Perdue made a bad bet six months ago when he jumped in the race and thought, 'Because Donald Trump likes me, I'm going to win,'" the Republican lieutenant governor, Geoff Duncan, told The New York Times. "He bet wrong."

So did Republicans who ran for gubernatorial nominations in Nebraska and Idaho with Trump's backing -- both fell short. All failed to understand a key principle: Elections are about the future, not the past, and Trump's obsessive focus on his loss in 2020 sounds outdated and off-key to a rising cohort of Republican officials and voters, even folks who backed him twice for president.

"Georgia underscores one of Trump's big problems if/when he runs again," tweeted GOP strategist Brendan Buck. "He, of course, won't be able to let go of the 2020 nonsense, and nobody wants to hear his whining about it anymore."

A Post reporter found plenty of disillusionment among Trump backers in Georgia. Barry Schrenk described Trump as an "excellent president," but said Kemp "had to follow the Constitution" in declaring Biden the winner in 2020. Trump, he said, "can't blame himself for losing the election. He's looking for someone to blame."

Phoebe Mitchell, a special education teacher, said she voted for Trump twice, but added, "The governor doesn't have the authority to overturn the election. ... I have lost a lot of love for (Trump)." When Trump makes an endorsement now, she added, that "makes me want to vote for anyone else."

Similar feelings of frustration are bubbling up in Pennsylvania, where Trump endorsed celebrity doctor Mehmet Oz in a heated primary race for an open Senate seat. The contest between Oz and hedge fund mogul David McCormick is now headed for a recount, and Trump caustically suggested the McCormick forces were rigging the election by stealing votes.

That meant, of course, that he was accusing fellow Republicans of misdeeds, but the man cares about only one thing -- his own ego -- and if his candidate is losing, he automatically looks for someone to blame.

Local Republican officials have reacted badly. Former Pennsylvania GOP chairman Rob Gleason said on NBC that "it's just shocking" for Trump to focus his lies on Republicans and warned, "Bitterness has been developing over a period of time. It's not just this election, but this just didn't help."

Trump compounded the ill will in the governor's race by promoting Mastriano, a hardline Trumper who seems likely to lose to Democrat Josh Shapiro in November. "I was surprised by how many people said, 'I'm not voting for anyone Trump endorsed,'" state legislator Tom Marino told NBC. "They've had it with him."

A growing number of Republicans share those sentiments. But how many will have the courage to act on them? How many are willing to look behind the curtain and see the wizard for the fraud he really is?

Steven Roberts teaches politics and journalism at George Washington University. He can be contacted by email at stevecokie@gmail.com.

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Photo taken on May 25, 2022 shows a view of the Lahore Converter Station of the 660kV Matiari-Lahore high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission line project under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) on the outskirts of Lahore, in Pakistan's eastern Punjab province.(Xinhua/Ahmad Kamal)

ISLAMABAD, June 4 (Xinhua) -- Muhammad Haris Mahmood, a 27-year-old Pakistani operation staff working at the Lahore Converter Station of the 660kV Matiari-Lahore high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission line project, is elated on finding the project a great platform to polish his technical skills as he worked with his Chinese colleagues.

"I feel very proud to be working on this first HVDC project in Pakistan," Haris told Xinhua. "This project is a backbone of our transmission system. I am amazed by the reliability and stability this project has brought into our power system."

As a key project under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the Matiari-Lahore transmission line project was completed by the Pak Matiari-Lahore Transmission Company (Pvt) Limited and started its commercial operation in September of 2021. It has the maximum capacity to transmit electricity of 35 billion kilowatt-hours annually.

Haris is one of the 38 Pakistani employees who work with the 23 Chinese employees at the Lahore Converter Station all the year round to ensure the smooth operation of the project.

"We adopt a mentor-apprentice training methodology in our work, in which Chinese employees provide one-on-one workshops to Pakistani employees to help them quickly build their operation and maintenance skills," said Wu Mingxing, the Chinese operation and maintenance supervisor at the station.

From personnel training to equipment assistance, the 886 km-long Matiari-Lahore transmission line project has a lot of Chinese features. It was invested, constructed and is being operated by the State Grid Corporation of China in accordance with Chinese standards, with approximately 98 percent of the project's equipment being supplied by Chinese companies.

"The project is guided by the concept of green and low-carbon development which China is actively practicing. It has brought green and clean electricity to Pakistan," said Yuan Jie, deputy director of the construction, operation and maintenance department of the Pak Matiari-Lahore Transmission Company (Pvt) Limited.

"Large capacity, long-distance transmission, high efficiency and low losses are the four main advantages of the project, serving as a guarantee of minimizing its environmental impact," said Yuan.

Insufficient power has always been a pain point plaguing Pakistan's economic development. The transmission line project has resolved an electrical shortfall in about 9.3 million Pakistani households, and around 7,000 jobs had been created for the locals during the construction of the project.

"The transmission project has alleviated the job problem of a portion of the local low-income population, and its long-term benefits will be evident and beneficial to the Pakistani people," Usman Ali Ashraf, CEO of Kamran Steel in the country's eastern city of Lahore, told Xinhua.

"'Made in China' and 'Chinese technology' has taken root in Pakistan thanks to the transmission project, which is consistently helping enhance Pakistan's power grid and foster the country's socio-economic development," said Qu Wentao, station manager of the Lahore Converter Station.

"It is one of the best examples of China-Pakistan friendship through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the CPEC projects," he said. 

Photo taken on Sept. 6, 2021 shows a view of the Lahore Converter Station of the 660kV Matiari-Lahore high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission line project under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) on the outskirts of Lahore, in Pakistan's eastern Punjab province.(State Grid Corporation of China/Handout via Xinhua)

Technicians work at the Lahore Converter Station of the 660kV Matiari-Lahore high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission line project under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) on the outskirts of Lahore, in Pakistan's eastern Punjab province on May 25, 2022.(Xinhua/Ahmad Kamal)

Photo taken on Sept. 6, 2021 shows a view of the Lahore Converter Station of the 660kV Matiari-Lahore high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission line project under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) on the outskirts of Lahore, in Pakistan's eastern Punjab province.(State Grid Corporation of China/Handout via Xinhua)
South Carolina State trustees decided to stay the course with the interim president, looking to a proud alumnus of its military program to lead the university going forward. SC State is a leading producer of minority officers in the U.S. Army, with an unparalleled record of achievement.

Conyers, a retired U.S. Army colonel, was tapped as the institutions 13th president on April 28.

He was first named vice president for strategic alliances and initiatives at S.C. State in April 2021. He became acting president in July 2021 before being named interim president a month later.

The 56-year-old Manning native, who is a 1989 alumnus, is now focused on preparing his alma mater for success.

And the importance of his mission cannot be overstated.

Conyers told The Times and Democrats Staff Writer Dionne Gleaton that enrollment is a priority, as it is for most institutions of higher learning as the transition from COVID-19 unfolds.

We exist to educate students primarily from South Carolina. Although students have choices, I want to ensure that South Carolina State remains relevant to be one of the top choices for the students from South Carolina and throughout the country, the president said.

Conyers said he would like to see the university maximize its enrollment, which this past year was around 2,500 students.

If we think we can house and educate 5,000 or 6,000 students with all of the resources, then thats where we should be. If we think we can get that, but need additional resources, then we need to be able to advocate for those resources. I need to be able to advocate to lawmakers, to alums and my fundraising capacity that if we had a dorm, or if we had this, we can grow our enrollment. We dont want to stifle ourselves because we hit a wall and say, OK, thats it. Were good with only 2,500 students, Conyers said.

He continued, I certainly believe that were operating below what our maximum number of students that we can educate. I dont want to get back to normal because, frankly, normal was not good enough.

The president said enrollment will be the driving force behind the success of other university goals.

Our faculty and our staff deserve additional pay, but we cant get there with the current enrollment. So enrollment drives all of those things, where were able to take those dollars from tuition and increase pay, hire additional personnel.

Although were state supported, were not fully state funded. So, therefore, we have to make up the difference between state appropriations and how the university operates. Like most institutions, thats driven by enrollment, Conyers said.

He said he is not interested in just bringing any student in.

Although I believe every student deserves an opportunity, we want to bring students in who clearly have an opportunity to fully matriculate through the university. We dont want students who havent shown that capacity if its going to only further saddle their families with debt down the road if they cant matriculate, Conyers said.

Under a recent policy, in-state tuition rates are applied to legacy students and those from North Carolina and Georgia in an effort to increase enrollment, bolster revenue and compete for exceptional students. Students need at least a 3.0 high school grade-point average to qualify.

Legacy students have at least one parent or grandparent who graduated from S.C. State. A legacy student from outside Georgia, North Carolina or South Carolina could still qualify for the discount if they met the other requirements.

Were looking to boost our enrollment with additional sources we have not utilized in the past with the in-state tuition, but our criteria for those is a higher GPA in hopes that those students will have a higher propensity to graduate, Conyers said.

He also understands the benefits of having a mix of first-, second- and third-generation students.

I believe by us bringing in legacy students at the in-state tuition, we will get a greater mix because those legacy students will be second- or third-generation college students and their parents or grandparents, having been through college, will be better able to assist them navigating the process. I believe well see a higher propensity of those students graduating, at least from the financial side, the president said.

Other items are on the agenda for the news president, but so much is dependent on enrollment, as he acknowledges. The university trustees have shown great faith in one of South Carolina State Universitys own as the leader to guide the institution.

Alexander Conyers is to be congratulated as the leader of an institution vital to Orangeburg, the state and beyond. He is due support as he prioritizes enlisting new classes of SC State Bulldogs.

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The Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs has issued a press release to announce that a new temporary structure for people fleeing the war in Ukrainian will be set up in Kirchberg.

The temporary structure will be housed in the 'T Building', formerly part of the Court of Justice of the European Union, on Boulevard Konrad Adenauer in Kirchberg. Officials estimate that the building will be able to house up to 1,200 people.

In light of the announcement, Minister of Immigration and Asylum Jean Asselborn has collaborated with a local interest group to set up an information meeting for Luxembourg City residents, to be held at 6.30 pm on 12 May.

The LSAP politician will be accompanied by representatives from the National Bureau for Admission (ONA), affected ministries, Caritas, and the Luxembourg Red Cross. Together, they will present details about the project and answer the questions of affected residents. Furthermore, people will get a chance to visit parts of the designated location.
On Sunday morning, the Luxembourg Hunters' Federation held its annual general assembly, an event that drew around 250 people to Weiswampach on Sunday morning.

President Jo Studer addressed the crowd and stressed that the Federation wants to cooperate with the Nature and Forest Administration (ANF).

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Sustainable Development Joelle Welfring was not present, much to the dismay of the hunters.

They lamented that the Ministry still fails to include the Federation in its decision-making processes. Furthermore, they believe that the habitat of game is continuously being reduced.

 Monique Muller  Monique Muller  Monique Muller  Monique Muller  Monique Muller  Monique Muller  Monique Muller  Monique Muller  Monique Muller  Monique Muller  Monique Muller The photos published on this site are subject to copyright and may not be copied, modified, or sold without the prior permission of the owner of the site in question.

ANF director Frank Wolter came to the general assembly as a replacement for Minister Welfring. He announced that a task-force will be created next week to address the overpopulation of boars and propose ways of managing the problem.
Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Emine Dzhaparova travelled to the Grand Duchy to meet with local politicians and plea for continued support against the Russian invasion.

After Ukraine's President Zelensky addressed the Chamber of Deputies via video conference earlier this week, the war-torn country's Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs travelled to the Grand Duchy to reiterate - in person - Ukraine's need for continued support.

During her visit, Minister Dzhaparova met with Prime Minister Xavier Bettel, Minister of Defence Francois Bausch, as well as her direct counterpart, Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Jean Asselborn. She further joined a session of the Chamber of Deputies.

The 39-year-old Deputy Minister, who is a former journalist and news presenter, was already Minister of Information Policy in Petro Poroschenko's administration. Minister Dzhaparova is a native of Crimea, the peninsula that has long been affected by Russian aggression, even before the 2014 annexation.

She noted: "My grandmother cried every time she told me the story of the deportation [of the Crimean Tatars], even at the age of 90. I never imagined I would have to endure the same feeling of losing my home in 2014, the worst and most challenging time of my life, when I had to leave the peninsula."

When Russia annexed Crimea, Minister Dzhaparova fled to Kyiv together with her husband, their five-year-old daughter, and their cat: "Back then I thought that was the most challenging time... but I was wrong. On 24 February this year, my people had to suffer yet another tragedy."

Ukraine's Deputy Minster for Foreign Affairs underlined that the story of the Crimean peninsula reflects and explains much of the current conflict.

The politician also spoke to RTL's Raphaelle Dickes about the ongoing war, her meeting with Ukrainian refugees in Luxembourg, and the need for modern weapon systems.
On Sunday, an economic delegation including Prime Minister Xavier Bettel and Minister of the Economy Franz Fayot leaves Luxembourg to travel to Niger and Rwanda for a four-day official visit.

The government delegation faces a packed programme during the four-day visit, the highlight of which will be a major telecommunications conference in Kigali, capital of Rwanda.

For that reason, Claude Strasser, managing director of Post Luxembourg, has joined the economic delegation bound for the African continent. The delegation further includes members of the Broadcasting Center Europe (BCE), representatives from the technology sector, as well as start-up entrepreneurs.

Niger

The delegation will first travel to Niamey in Niger, one of four African partner countries in Luxembourg's development aid programme.

Here, PM Bettel will meet with President Mohamed Bazoum and also visit a centre for displaced people from all over the continent.

The delegation will also visit a water pipeline before heading to the airport to continue the trip in Rwanda.

Rwanda

In September last year, the Grand Duchy and Rwanda signed a tax agreement designed to foster economic relations between both countries.

Minister Fayot already visited Rwanda in October last year for the African Microfinance Week, and the Luxembourgish delegation will therefore use the opportunity of the telecommunications conference in Kigali to continue establishing contacts with local institutions and businesses.

Ministers Bettel and Fayot will evaluate the progress of this mission. Since overcoming civil war, Rwanda's economic development has been considered exemplary, often cited as an African success story.

The programme of the state visit also includes a meeting with President Paul Kagame, as well as a dinner.

Kagame is seen as having contributed significantly to Rwanda's success story. However, his regime has also seen regular allegations of human rights violations, most recently articulated in the April report of the international non-government organisation Human Rights Watch.

Whether or not members of Luxembourg's delegation will address these accusations remains to be seen.

The delegation will return to Luxembourg on Wednesday evening.
Four seats, 11 candidates. The election for the Natrona County Board of County Commissioners is shaping up to be an interesting, and crowded, race.

Four of the five current commissioners are up for reelection this year: Chairman Paul Bertoglio, Vice Chair Jim Milne, Rob Hendry and Peter Nicolaysen. All are seeking another term.

Commissioners typically serve four-years terms, but in light of former commissioner Brook Kaufmans departure to pursue a job in Rapid City, a two-year partial term is also on the ballot this year.

Heres a look at the candidates seeking a four-year term:

The incumbents

Commission Chairman Paul Bertoglio (R) has served two terms, first being elected in 2016 and periodically serving as the commissions vice-chairman. Bertoglio has been involved in local politics for years. He joined the Casper City Council in 1998 and served on it for 17 years, including three times as mayor.

The commissions vice chairman, James Jim Milne (R), is a former Natrona County sheriffs deputy. Hes previously served as the chairman for the Casper Friends of the NRA and as the Republican Committeeman for Precinct 11-4. Milne first ran for a seat on the commission in 2018, when he earned a spot with 18% of the vote.

Of the current commissioners, Peter Nicolaysen (R) is the newest, having been sworn into the position in April. He filled the vacancy left by Kaufman after being nominated by the Natrona County Republican Party and selected by the other four commissioners. Nicolaysen, an attorney and rancher, has opted to run for a four-year term instead of the two-year one created by Kaufmans departure.

The challengers

Hopeful Terry Wingerter (R) has a lengthy resume in local government. He served on the Casper City Council from 1983 to 1992, then moved to the commission, where he served four terms before falling short in the 2016 election. In the 2020 race, Wingerter was added as a write-in candidate on 150 ballots during the primary, but didnt gain enough votes in the general election to win a seat.

In previous years, Wingerter has been listed on the ballot as a Democrat. He explained in 2020 that no one ran as a Democrat, and Ive always believed in the two-party system. This year, Wingerter has switched his party affiliation to Republican to focus on maintaining county land and to address his concern regarding Wyomings use of resources, he said.

Attorney Dallas Laird (R) is also on the ballot this year. Laird has previous local government experience: He was appointed to the Casper City Council in 2017 and served through 2018, choosing not to run for another term. Laird has been a lawyer for more than a half century, working at times in private practice, as a public defender and as a prosecutor for the city of Casper.

Over the years I have fought a lot of Goliaths. I am used to standing up for the little guy and I am not intimidated by anyone, he said in a statement announcing his candidacy.

At 26, Kianna Smith (R) is the youngest of the candidates. Smith is a graduate of Natrona County High School, and after graduating from Virginias Patrick Henry College in 2018, she returned to Casper and won a seat on the Natrona County school board at the age of 22. Smith is running as a Republican. She sought to fill Kaufmans vacancy this spring, but did not get the local Republican Partys nomination.

Republican Shianne Huston (R) also sought the nomination to fill Kaufmans vacancy. Huston served more than two decades in the military, with eight years in the Air Force and another 12 in the Wyoming Air National Guard. She then worked as a recruiter before opening Off the Beaten Path, an antique store in Mills.

Huston served as a Republican precinct committeewoman from 2018 to 2020, and she said she chose to join the county commission race because she felt that change was needed in the office.

The lone Democratic candidate in this years line-up is Tom Radosevich (D), medical director at Wyoming Recovery in Casper. Originally from Rock Springs, Radosevich has lived in the Casper area for 23 years and served on the Natrona County Board of Health from 2005 to 2010, according to the board.

Radosevich ran as a Republican in the 2012 GOP primary for Wyoming Senate District 28. Emerging from the race with 16% of the vote, Radosevich lost to current state Sen. Jim Anderson.

Here are the candidates for the lone two-year term on the commission:

The incumbent

Rob Hendry (R) has ample experience on the commission. He first won election in 2006 and has served four terms. A longtime rancher, Hendry has served as the president of the Wyoming Stock Growers Association and vice-chairman of the National Cattlemens Association.

The challengers

Steve Freel (R) also has considerable experience in local government. Hes currently Caspers vice mayor and previously served as its mayor. A longtime police officer who retired as a captain, Freel joined the council in 2019. He recently decided to seek a spot on the commission rather than another term on the council.

Weve done a lot of good things in the four years Ive been here, Freel said previously. Ive enjoyed it, I really have.

The other challenger for a two-year seat is Curt Simpson Jr. (R). The hopeful has previously held a seat on the Natrona County Predator Management Board. Simpson has run for local office before. In 2012, he sought a spot on the Casper Mountain Fire District Board, but came up short.

When asked why he had chose to run this year, Simpsons reasoning was simple. I live in the county and care about what goes on in it, he said.

Wyomings primary is set for Aug. 16.

Editor's note: A previous version of this story misstated the number of terms Terry Wingerter has served on the county commission.

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Montana coal production is up slightly as rising natural gas prices make the fuel more competitive.

Mines produced seven million tons through March, an increase of about 11% from the same period a year earlier, according to federal Mine Safety and Health Administration data.

The increase comes at a time when U.S. coal production is up 3% for the year so far. Montana mine production can be attributed partly to two things, increased exports and a slight rebound in coal demand at domestic power plants. The longer trend in production is for less coal. The state has one less mine than it did in 2020, when Decker Coal went bankrupt.

Signal Peak reported an increase of nearly 200,000 tons at Bull Mountain mine, which straddles Yellowstone and Musselshell counties. The mine is exclusively a source of export coal for customers in Japan and South Korea. Its 1.72 million tons produced in the first three months of the year marked its best first quarter since 2018 and its third best early-year performance in the last decade.

Likewise, Spring Creek Mine coal production was up 160,568 tons. At the beginning of the year, Spring Creek owner Navajo Transitional Energy Company forecasted improved demand in South Korea and Japan would spur production in its Montana and Wyoming mines.

Spring Creek is Montanas largest coal mine. First quarter production has hovered around 2.7 million tons for several years. Prior to a 2016 coal slump, which lead to the bankruptcy of then owner Cloud Peak Energy, Spring Creek rarely produced less than 3 million tons in a first quarter.

Cheap natural gas and a global coal glut was credited for Cloud Peaks coal crash in 2016. Rising gas prices and tight coal production are now credited for the mines improved production.

NTEC CEO Clark Moseley told Argus Media at the start of the year, that coal would benefit from higher natural gas prices in 2022. Just two years ago, NTEC was furloughing Spring Creek employees as the pandemic disrupted domestic coal consumption in the Midwest.

Spring Creeks most productive period is usually between June and October as domestic demand for coal increases. Coal piled at power plants ahead of air conditioning season, and again ahead of winter heating, are the big drivers.

Westmoreland Mining LLC, which operates Rosebud and Absaloka mines, has increased production. The companys Montana mines fuel domestic power plants, primarily Colstrip Power Plant in southeast Montana and the Sherburne County Generating Station in Becker, Minnesota. Both power plants have owners intending to phase out coal power in less than five years. SHERCO Unit 2 is scheduled to retire next year.

Rosebud mine, which serves Colstrip and a smaller power plant that burns waste coal, produced 130,000 more tons in the first quarter of the year than it did in early 2021. The 1.9 million tons produced at the mine were the most first-quarter tons mined since 2019, which was the last year Colstrip Units 1 and 2 operated, before being shuttered.

Absaloka mine, the states smallest active mine, increased production to 550,674 tons in the first quarter, a 42% increase over the same period a year earlier.

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The University of Wyoming will dispatch a team of researchers to Kemmerer and Diamondville this month to document residents lived experiences.

The focus of the schools Kemmerer-Diamondville Oral History Project will look at how residents perceive their communities, according to a Thursday press release from the university.

Kemmerer and Diamondville  two neighboring towns in Lincoln County  have suffered under the decline of the coal industry, which has long served as the towns primary economic driver. In November, engineering company TerraPower announced it would build a new sodium-cooled nuclear reactor at the Naughton Power Plant outside of Kemmerer. The power plants coal-fired units are slated to retire in 2025.

Students, faculty and staff will work together to interview residents about that change and record their stories. Theyll be visiting the towns from June 15 to 24.

The new project is sponsored by two university groups: the American Studies Program and the American Heritage Center.

Andrea Graham, a senior research scientist and folklife specialist for the American Studies Program, and Leslie Waggener, archivist for the American Heritage Center, are leading the team.

Oral history is about people telling their own stories, describing both their personal histories and their sense of place and community, from the past to the future, Graham said in the release.

The project is backed by Wyoming Humanities, the Wyoming Community Foundation and the Lincoln County Library System.

The team will host a public talk reflecting on their research at 3 p.m. on July 23 at the Lincoln County Library.

Materials collected during the study will be archived at the American Heritage Center and the Lincoln County Library. Some of the project will be used for future public programming, the release said, like exhibits and media broadcasts.

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Last month, tribal officials in Wyoming removed several administrators and the entire board of St. Stephens Indian School after a federal investigation found widespread wrongdoing on the part of the schools leadership. The school provides instruction to students in kindergarten through 12th grade, operating out of a campus on the Wind River Reservation.

Given the nature and scope of the allegations described in the report, widespread wrongdoing might be underselling things. The Bureau of Indian Education report accused the schools leadership of sexual misconduct and harassment, bullying, nepotism and financial exploitation, on top of drug and alcohol use on school property.

Multiple witnesses, for example, told investigators that Superintendent Frank No Runner sexually harassed or bullied them. They alleged that he asked students  both current and former  for sexual favors, sometimes offering them money in return. He used his position to give his wife, food services supervisor Pattee Bement  a job and salary, the investigation found, and created a toxic work environment.

The allegations didnt stop with him. The report states No Runner, his wife and K-8 Principal Greg Juneau used marijuana on school property. Meanwhile, school board members allegedly signed off on inappropriate pay increases for employees. They also failed to dismiss employees with expired state certifications, according to the report.

Its hard to find words to describe just how concerning this report is. If the allegations are true, they represent an astonishing failure of leadership. The students at St. Stephens deserve a safe and healthy environment to learn. The federal investigation calls that into question.

The Bureau of Indian Education began its investigation at the request of the Northern Arapaho and Eastern Shoshone governments. After the findings were released, the Wind River Inter-Tribal Council moved quickly to address the situation, voting to fire administrators and school board members. (The schools staff will all have to reapply for their jobs.) As of the middle of last week, the council was in control of the school until the bureau is ready to take over that responsibility.

Because St. Stephens sits on the Wind River Reservation, it operates in a unique educational setting relative to most schools in Wyoming. It receives oversight from the Bureau of Indian Education, a federal entity. It is supported by federal funding and follows federal regulations.

But even given all of that, the state of Wyoming still plays a role. The state contributes roughly $1.2 million annually in supplemental funding, which comes out of Wyomings general fund. The Wyoming Department of Education tracks enrollment numbers for funding purposes, and St. Stephens students are eligible to participate in statewide assessments, which they did in the current school year. Public schools on the reservation are subject to state education rules.

In other words, multiple governmental entities play some role in funding and regulating the school. Its essential they address this matter quickly and effectively so that the students educational progress isnt harmed by the alleged failings of those responsible for supporting them. Its also essential that with oversight of the school divided among multiple entities, the matter doesnt fall through the cracks as our collective attention inevitably shifts elsewhere.

Getting the school back on track must be the top priority. But if the reports most damning allegations are true, so is finding out how this situation was allowed to happen and creating safeguards to prevent a recurrence.

St. Stephens serves an important role for communities on the Wind River Reservation. Its critical that we stand up for its students now. The tribal council acted decisively after the federal government released its findings. Now, the focus must be on making sure that something like this never happens again.

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KOTA KINABALU, Malaysia, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi talked over phone Saturday with Malaysian Foreign Minister Saifuddin Abdullah, and both sides pledged to safeguard the mature ASEAN-centered regional cooperation framework.

Wang, who made a stopover in Malaysia after his 10-day tour to Pacific island countries, briefed Saifuddin on his visit to those countries.

Wang said China and the island states will continue to build the Road and Belt, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation and seek common development and revitalization.

Calling China a country bearing primary responsibilities in the Asia-Pacific region, Saifuddin said regional countries expect China's leadership in enhancing South-South cooperation, so as to create a more harmonious Pacific region.

Both sides expressed concerns about the evolving situation in Europe, particularly the spillover effect of the Ukraine crisis, and agreed that countries in East Asia should boost strategic communication, strengthen unity and coordination, and join hands in safeguarding the hard-won peace and development.

China and Malaysia believed that regional countries should safeguard the mature cooperation framework with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) at the center, and try to prevent the Cold War mentality from taking root in this region to create a new camp confrontation.

They hope that other major countries could play a constructive role in maintaining peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region.

Wang visited the Solomon Islands, Kiribati, Samoa, Fiji, Tonga, Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea as well as Timor-Leste. 
Contractors in Tobago, who are owed millions of dollars from the Tobago House of Assembly (THA), had a meeting with Chief Secretary Farley Augustine and Division of Infrastructure Secretary Trevor James, on Monday.

The meeting was held at the Division of Finance headquarters in Scarborough.

This was confirmed by one contractor who spoke to the Express following the meeting.
While remote work during the pandemic had its own challenges, now that many people are back in the office in some capacity, they are finding it more stressful and anxiety-triggering than they anticipated.

According to a study by McKinsey, one in three employees say that returning to work has had a negative impact on their mental health, making them anxious and depressed.
tough times: Trade union members march along Queens Park West, heading towards the Chief Personnel Officers office two Fridays ago. Trade unions took to the streets of Port of Spain to voice their feeling of disdain with the CPOs offer of a two-per cent salary increase over eight years. Photo: JERMAINE CRUICKSHANK
THE State has just one more witness to call against Tobago House of Assembly (THA) Deputy Ch
School fights are not new. For as far back as anyone can remember, the schoolyard has been a place where teenagers, in particular, settle scores.

What is new is the magnifying of school violence through camera phones and video posts on social media, which add an entirely different and more dangerous dynamic to the traditional school fights.
China, Malaysia vow to safeguard ASEAN-centered regional cooperation framework

Xinhua) 13:14, June 05, 2022

KOTA KINABALU, Malaysia, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi talked over phone Saturday with Malaysian Foreign Minister Saifuddin Abdullah, and both sides pledged to safeguard the mature ASEAN-centered regional cooperation framework.

Wang, who made a stopover in Malaysia after his 10-day tour to Pacific island countries, briefed Saifuddin on his visit to those countries.

Wang said China and the island states will continue to build the Road and Belt, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation and seek common development and revitalization.

Calling China a country bearing primary responsibilities in the Asia-Pacific region, Saifuddin said regional countries expect China's leadership in enhancing South-South cooperation, so as to create a more harmonious Pacific region.

Both sides expressed concerns about the evolving situation in Europe, particularly the spillover effect of the Ukraine crisis, and agreed that countries in East Asia should boost strategic communication, strengthen unity and coordination, and join hands in safeguarding the hard-won peace and development.

China and Malaysia believed that regional countries should safeguard the mature cooperation framework with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) at the center, and try to prevent the Cold War mentality from taking root in this region to create a new camp confrontation.

They hope that other major countries could play a constructive role in maintaining peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region.

Wang visited the Solomon Islands, Kiribati, Samoa, Fiji, Tonga, Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea as well as Timor-Leste.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Bianji)
Firefighters spray water to extinguish a fire at the fire site of a container depot in Chattogram, Bangladesh on June 5, 2022. (Xinhua)

by Naim-Ul-Karim

DHAKA, June 5 (Xinhua) -- At least 45 people were killed and hundreds of others injured as a devastating fire swept through a container facility in Chattogram district, about 242 km southeast of the capital Dhaka.

The fire broke out in one of the containers loaded with chemicals in the container yard located in Sitakunda on the outskirts of Chattogram on Saturday night.

The district's chief administrator Mohammad Mominur Rahman told Xinhua over phone that "the death toll of the depot fire has risen to 45 on Sunday."

According to Brigadier General Shamim Ahsan, director of Chattogram Medical College Hospital, at least 250 people who suffered burn injuries in the devastating fire that erupted at about 8:00 p.m. local time Saturday at the private BM Container Depot, a Netherlands-Bangladesh joint venture, were treated in the hospital.

He said most of the victims were shifted to hospitals, mostly suffering from mild to heavy burns, adding that the death toll could rise as some of the injured were still in critical condition.

Rahman said 25 firefighting units had still been battling to put out the blaze.

The massive fire at the BM Container Depot was yet to come under control despite efforts to douse the flames.

According to local sources, explosions shook the neighbourhood and shattered windows of nearby houses.

Chattogram Divisional Commissioner Ashraf Uddin said the Bangladeshi Army has joined the Fire Service to bolster rescue and fire controlling efforts.

Around 250 members of the Bangladesh soldiers were working, he added.

The depot had hydrogen peroxide, said Lt. Col. Monira Sultana, commander of Chattogram cantonment Engineering Corps 1.

"Our chemical experts are also working with the firefighters to control the spread of fire," she said.

A team of army personnel were working to assist in the rescue operation and bring the fire under control, while another team was scrambling to prevent chemicals at the depot from spreading to the sea.

Mujibur Rahman, director of the BM Container Depot, said in a statement that it was not clear what caused the fire exactly.

But he believed the fire started from a container loaded with chemicals. 

Photo taken on June 5, 2022 shows the site where a fire broke out at a container depot in Chattogram, Bangladesh. (Xinhua)

Firefighters spray water to extinguish a fire at the fire site of a container depot in Chattogram, Bangladesh on June 5, 2022. (Xinhua)

Photo taken on June 5, 2022 shows the site where a fire broke out at a container depot in Chattogram, Bangladesh. (Xinhua)

Photo taken on June 5, 2022 shows the site where a fire broke out at a container depot in Chattogram, Bangladesh. (Xinhua)

Firefighters look for injured people at the fire site of a container depot in Chattogram, Bangladesh on June 5, 2022. (Xinhua)

Photo taken on June 5, 2022 shows the site where a fire broke out at a container depot in Chattogram, Bangladesh. (Xinhua)

Photo taken on June 5, 2022 shows the site where a fire broke out at a container depot in Chattogram, Bangladesh. (Xinhua)

Smoke billows from the site of a fire at a container depot in Chattogram, Bangladesh on June 5, 2022. (Xinhua)
It was 1964, when the G.O.A.T. (the greatest of all time), Muhammad Ali, remonstrated with H
A $1.2 million grant to a UA College of Education program that provides mentors and educational resources to Arizonas Indigenous communities will double the number of mentors working with middle and high school students.

The Arizona Department of Education grant to Native SOAR, which stands for Student Outreach, Access and Resiliency program, will help double from 20 to 40 University of Arizona undergraduates to mentor students in the fall and spring semesters, said Amanda Cheromiah, Native SOAR director.

The program emphasizes Indigenous teaching and knowledge, and over 10 weeks, UA students from any major will spend up to four hours a week mentoring middle and high school students about attending college, cultural resilience, leadership skills and identity exploration. The mentors, who mostly are Indigenous, must enroll in a three-credit Native SOAR class and are paid for their work as mentors.

Recent mentor Cassandra Perez is from the San Carlos Apache Reservation, near Globe, and this past academic year she was a mentor to two Pascua Yaqui students attending Tucson High Magnet School. Both were juniors, and Perez shared with them what college life is like, including living on or off campus; financial aid and scholarships; study habits; and the differences in going to a community college first and then transferring to a four-year institution, or immediately going to a university after high school.

Perez said giving advice and helping high school students learn about college was fulfilling. She said her involvement in the program was one of the best things that happened to her.

Native SOAR gave me a chance to share my story, but it also just gave me a chance to be myself, talk with other people from different backgrounds and to hear their stories as well, said Perez who also received support from her parents and grandparents, adding that she lost her maternal grandparents and an uncle within three weeks from COVID-19 when she was a junior.

Perez, who also was mentored in the Native SOAR program by Cheromiah and law school students, graduated in May with a bachelors in law from the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences. The 22-year-old plans on attending the UA James E. Rogers College of Law and enroll in a dual degree program to pursue a law degree alongside a masters degree in either American Indian studies or Indigenous governance.

The Native SOAR program also offers workshops emphasizing Indigenous knowledge and best teaching practices to all local K-12 educators. The sessions are taught by Native SOAR staff and university students.

Historically, Indigenous students have lower enrollment, retention, and graduation rates in higher education compared to other student populations, said Cheromiah in a news release. Native SOAR closes educational gaps by providing culturally responsive programming and mentorship that increases the number of Indigenous students who enter and graduate from college, said Cheromiah, a member of the Laguna Pueblo of New Mexico.

Cheromiah, who runs the program with two graduate student assistants, Jeremiah Foster and Myrhea Sherman, said even though mentoring is at the core of the programs mission, Native SOAR also includes resources related to recruitment, retention and career development.

Since 2014, nearly 300 undergraduates have served as college mentors who represent over 50 majors, said Cheromiah. Most of the mentors are members of Arizona tribes, but there are mentors who are enrolled in tribes outside the state. Cheromiah said she is proud of the programs ability to build the confidence of Indigenous youth and educators, create and implement culturally relevant curriculum, programming and marketing materials designed for Indigenous students and communities and to amplify our narratives as Indigenous people in education and beyond.

In the past eight years, mentors have spent nearly 7,000 hours advising more than 6,900 kindergarten through 12th grade students throughout the Southwest and served more than 140 schools mostly in the state, the programs data shows.

During COVID-19, the programs services were offered virtually with funding from the College of Education and the Office of the Provost. Our ability to mentor online and in person really helped us create healing spaces and spaces of innovation with our Indigenous communities, said the program director. She said students and educators in rural areas had asked for better access to technology and online resources.

The new funding will help the program continue to reach those communities. Over three years, the program will purchase 750 tablets, which will be loaded with mentoring resources for middle and high school students, said Cheromiah. An additional 65 tablets for program staff and educators also will be purchased, and more workshops and professional development opportunities to K-12 educators will be offered.

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Contact reporter Carmen Duarte at cduarte@tucson.com or on Twitter: @cduartestar

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In 1972  a century after his arrival in the Old Pueblo  the Tucson City Council named a park in honor of William Wallace Ormsby, a Civil War veteran who settled here.

Ormsby and his twin Levi Washington Ormsby were born Dec. 2, 1835, in Amherst, Ohio. Their father was William Ormsby, and their mother was likely Olive or Minerva Ormsby, and they also had a daughter.

By late 1843, it's believed the family, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, or Mormons, had relocated to Kirtland, Ohio, which a few years earlier had been the center of this new religious movement and became the site of its first temple.

A couple years later, the family was in Nauvoo, Illinois, and likely witnessed the construction there of the second temple, as well as some of the mob violence against Mormons in that city, which eventually led to their departure.

By 1850, the family was at present-day Council Bluffs, Iowa, and in June of that year departed on a church wagon train, consisting of about 200 souls and approximately 50 wagons, known as the Milo Andrus Company. They passed many graves along the way, due in part to the cholera epidemic of the time, as they traveled along the Platte River through Nebraska and Wyoming before entering present-day Utah.

What happened after the Ormsby family's arrival in Utah was described in a letter a few years later by John Stoker, the bishop of Bountiful, Utah, to Abner Ormsby, who inquired about the location of "my brother William Ormsby, a man about 65 years of age":

"William Ormsby was a resident of the North Canyon Ward, Davis County, and he died in December 1851 or January 1852. He had a daughter named Olive Cynthia Ormsby who died March 1, 1851, age 17 years. He had two sons that were twins; their names were Levi & William Ormsby, who left the (Utah) Territory in the spring of 1853 for Lower California and were living near San Bernardino for a number of years  nothing further is known concerning them." (The fate of the children's mother is not known.)

During the U.S. Civil War, Capt. Alexander Gibson organized what would be known as Company B., 7th California Infantry Regiment of the Union Army, at Marysville, California. The Ormsby brothers enlisted as privates, Levi on Oct. 10, 1864, and William Wallace on Oct. 27, 1864.

After the company was mustered into service on Nov. 1, 1864, it was dispatched to the Presidio of San Francisco, where it remained until May 1865, when it was ordered to Tucson, Arizona Territory.

The unit traveled by sea to San Pedro, California, marched from there to Fort Yuma, and thenceforth east along the Gila River and south along the Santa Cruz River to Tucson.

The Ormsby brothers spent a few months shy of a year in the Old Pueblo, a sunbaked adobe village that had begun as a Spanish presidio or fort and slowly grew outside the thick adobe walls.

While stationed here, its likely the brothers learned from the sparse Spanish-speaking population the names of the dirt streets they walked in town, which in many ways described the town itself.

For example, Calle del Arroyo (Wash Street) was where the arroyo or wash ran just south of the old fort wall into the nearby Santa Cruz River; Callejon Del Herrero (Blacksmith Alley) was where Louis Quesse, a Prussian-born blacksmith, plied his trade on one side of the alley and Pvt. Thomas Belknap, (Co. B., 1st California Regiment Cavalry) carried out the military blacksmith, farrier and wagon shop; and Calle de la Mesilla (Mesilla Street), a thin dirt path was where wagon trains carrying goods from Mesilla, New Mexico Territory traveled to La Plaza de la Mesilla (Mesilla Plaza) to be unloaded. The latter street name was soon changed to Mesilla Street and existed until about 1970. It was the last of the original Spanish street names.

It's unlikely either brother ever did any real fighting while stationed in Tucson, although it's possible one or both were part of Lt. Frank Upham's detachment to recover the bodies of a father, mother and child from Monterey, Mexico, who had been killed by Apaches about 27 miles southeast of Tucson near Cienega Creek. It's also likely the brothers spent many hours at the canvas-covered sentinel station on top of Sentinel Peak ("A" Mountain) watching for Apache raiding parties.

In early 1866, Company B. was ordered back to the Presidio of San Francisco where the brothers were mustered out on April 26, 1866.

The inseparable brothers relocated to San Rafael and then Santa Rosa, California, where William worked as a saddler and Levi as a miller, before becoming farmers in Carpenteria, California.

By late 1871, Ormsby had a letter waiting for him at the Tucson post office that had not yet been picked up, so he was likely on his way to Tucson at this point and likely arrived in early 1872.

By March 1873, Ormsby was involved with two partners in a small gold mining operation about 30 miles west of Tucson.

On Dec. 28, 1873, Judge W.J. Osborn (namesake of Tucson's misspelled Osborne Avenue) married William W. Ormsby to Refugia Buelna. Buelna is believed to have been born around 1850 in Sonora, Mexico, and to have immigrated to the U.S. around 1870.

The couple would have children William B. Ormsby in 1876, Carmen "Carrie" Ormsby in 1878, Rosa Ormsby around 1880 and possibly a fourth child, Rafael, around 1884.

In 1874, William W. Ormsby was part of a coroner's jury during an inquest into the killing of two suspected horse thieves near Desert Station, about 27 miles northwest of Tucson.

By late 1876, Ormsby was spending time near Florence, Arizona, likely searching for precious metals. Four years later he was involved in a mine named Phebe B. or Phoebe B. in the Santa Catalina Mountains.

In the mid-1890s, Carmen Ormsby married rancher George Myers; Rosa Ormsby wed Dececino Duarte; and William B. Ormsby took Francisca Argel to be his wife, all in Florence.

By 1901, William W. Ormsby was a widow or divorced. That year, he married Teodora Silvas in Florence, but this marriage lasted only six days before he abandoned his new wife and disappeared. A couple years later, after they were divorced, the likely reason came to the surface.

An area newspaper shared, "William Ormsby has located some very large quartz-filled veins, in the vicinity of Walnut Grove, 20 miles northeast of Florence. The quartz carries gold, copper and silver, on the surface, in fair percentage. He discovered these veins in the early days, when the Apaches were still lurking in the hills around Walnut Springs, and could not develop them at that time. He had not returned to them since those early days till last week and found some of his old tools just where he left them in the old works. The handles of the shovels and picks had rotted and fallen to pieces."

At the time he was working on his mine, he was receiving a six-dollar-per-month pension from the U.S. government, likely in connection with his Civil War service.

In 1910, Ormsby received his homestead patent for 40 acres for land northeast of Florence. He later lived in Dona Ana County, New Mexico, before he died in Tempe in 1922 at the age of 87.

By 1933, his son William B. Ormsby and his second wife, Carlota, were residing at "Santa Cruz Road, cor. Farms Co. ditch," in Tucson, an area now believed to be Santa Cruz Lane, somewhere between 24th Street and Silver Lake Road, in a neighborhood sometimes called Barrio Santa Cruz.

Other Ormsbys would soon follow, occupying homes in this area and to the north, in what is now called Barrio Kroeger Lane, for many generations to come.

Years later, in 1971, Tucson purchased a small parcel of land near West 24th Street and Santa Cruz Lane as part of the Model Cities mini-parks program.

Demesia Ormsby wrote a letter signed by numerous neighbors to Mayor Lew Murphy, successfully asking that the City Council name it Ormsby Park.

Special thanks to Perri Pyle of the Arizona Historical Society and also the staff of the Pinal County Historical Society for research assistance on this article. David Leighton is a historian and author of The History of the Hughes Missile Plant in Tucson, 1947-1960. He has been featured on PBS, ABC, Travel Channel and various radio shows, and his work has appeared in Arizona Highways. He named four local streets in honor of pioneers Federico and Lupe Ronstadt and barrel racer Sherry Cervi. If you have a street to suggest or a story to share, email him at azjournalist21@gmail.com

Sources Sources: Special thanks to Perri Pyle of the Arizona Historical Society and also the staff of the Pinal County Historical Society for research assistance on this article. Interview with Ruby Myers Carter (Great Granddaughter of William W. Ormsby) 1922 William W. Ormsby death certificate (date of birth) 1852 William Wallace Ormsby blessing card in Salt Lake City. (LDS records, Fathers name, and County born) 1845 William Ormsby blessing card in Nauvoo, IL (LDS Records--Parents names and date of birth) Lyman D. Platt, "Early Branches of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints 1830-1850," https://ensignpeakfoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/NJ3_Platt.pdf (pg.21) 1845 William Ormsby blessing card in Nauvoo, IL (LDS Records--family location at time) The Kirtlannd and Nauvoo Temples: https://www.deseret.com/2010/5/29/20117866/construction-of-mormon-temples-boomed-in-past-30-years The Milo Adrus Company: https://history.churchofjesuschrist.org/chd/organization/pioneer-company/milo-andrus-company-1850?lang=eng 1850 U.S. Census, Utah (William, William Wallace and Levi W. Ormsby) 1861 John Stoker letter to Abner Ormsby in reply a request of the whereabouts of his brother William Ormsby Sr. William W. Ormsby, Volunteer Enlistment document (City of birth,etc.) Brig. General Richard H. Orton, "Records of California Men in the War of the Rebellion, 1861 to 1867," (California) State Office, 1890 (Online) "News From Arizona," The Daily Examiner,(San Francisco Examiner), Aug. 5, 1865 David Leighton, "Blacksmith Alley once known for longtime shop," Arizona Daily Star, January 27, 2015 Alexander Gibson, Carl Hayden Pioneer Files (Online) 1866-67 Great Register of Marin County, California 1867 Great Register of Sonoma County, California 1868 Great Register of San Diego County, California 1870 U.S. Census (William and Levi Ormsby, Carpenteria, Santa Barbara, California) "List of Advertised Letters,' Arizona Citizen, Nov. 11, 1871 Ormsby mining note, Arizona Citizen, March 1, 1873 1873 W.W.Ormsby and Refugia Buelna marriage record 1900 Ormsby family U.S. Census Maricopa, Arizona (Refugia born in Mexico, immigrated to US in 1870) "Federal Census  Territory of New Mexico and Territory of Arizona Alma Ready and Alberto Suarez Barnett, "Gringo Rancher: William Barnett of La Arizona, Sonora," Journal of Arizona History, Summer 1986 (Rafael Buelna) Trains of Antonio Buelna  note, The Arizona Star, June 21, 1877 1876 (b. Mar. 27, 1876) (Baptized Mar. 31, 1876) Guillermo Ormsby baptism record, St. Augustine Baptisimal Register Vol. 1 1878 (b. Mar. 14, 1878) (Baptized Apr. 1, 1878) Carmen Ormsby. St. Augustine Baptismal Register Vol. 1 1900 Ormsby family U.S. Census Maricopa, Arizona (Rosa and Rafael birth dates) 1876 Pinal County Great Register (William W. Ormsby, near Florence, Arizona) Mining Locations, (Phebe B.), Arizona Daily Star, June 16, 1880 1881 Tucson City Directory (W.L. Brooks info) "Suicide of a Veteran," The Daily Examiner (San Francisco), Jan. 7, 1889 1894 George W. Myers and Carmen "Cary" Ormsby marriage record (Florence,Pinal County, Arizona) 1895 Dececino Duarte and Rosa Ormsby marriage record (Florence, Pinal County, Arizona) 1901 William W. Ormsby and Teodora Silvas, Marriage License No. 259 "Married," The Florence Tribune, April 20, 1901 "Six Days of Bliss," Arizona Republican, May 28, 1903 Teodora Ormsby granted divorce from William Ormsby note, Arizona Republican, Sept. 24, 1903 William Ormsby refinds quartz-filled veins note, Arizona Republican, Oct. 6, 1903 (For 1903) "Appointment and Pensions," Arizona Republican, April 13, 1902 1910 William W. Ormsby homestead record (Pinal County, Arizona) 1910 William W. Ormsby,(Rosa Duarte) Pinal County, U.S. Census 1912 Official Register of Electors, (Pinal) County, Arizona 1917 Tucson City Directory Bronx Park Addition plat map 1935 Estate of William W. Ormsby paper work (Bronx Park Addition property) 1920 William Ormsby, Dona Ana County, New Mexico Census 1922 William Ormsby death certificate "Mortuary: William Wallace Ormsby," Tucson Citizen, Jan. 3, 1923 1933, 1935, 1936 & 1937 Tucson City Directories "Council Considers Rezoning," (Model Cities miniparks) Tucson Daily Citizen, Sept. 25, 1971 1972 Demesia Ormsby letter to Mayor Lew Murphy "Council Forms Operations Dept.," (Naming of Ormsby Park), Arizona Daily Star, Aug. 15, 1972

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A Tucson congressman who chairs a key House committee told federal officials that Hudbay Minerals Inc. is illegally clearing and grading washes in the Santa Rita Mountains for a big new mine project and causing irreparable harm.

Unpermitted environmental degradation is damaging washes legally protected by the federal Clean Water Act, U.S. Rep. Raul Grijalva wrote on May 24 to top officials in the Assistant Secretary of the Armys Office. They oversee the Army Corps of Engineers, which is responsible for enforcing that law.

Grijalvas letter calls for the Army Corps to consult with three tribes opposed to Hudbays Copper World project, and to consider halting the companys work there in the meantime.

I am writing to bring to your attention the alarming reports of unlawful actions in Southern Arizona by Hudbay Minerals, Inc., said Grijalva, a Tucson Democrat who chairs the House Natural Resources Committee.

Grijalva also said lands of cultural importance to the tribes have been damaged by Hudbays work.

In response, Hudbay told the Arizona Daily Star theres never been a formal determination by the federal government that the washes at Copper World are to be regulated under the Clean Water Act.

The company also said a federal judges ruling, issued the day before Grijalva sent his letter, rejected his key assertions. U.S. District Judge James Soto in Tucson declined to halt Hudbays grading in response to lawsuits filed by the three tribes and by several environmental groups.

Separate projects?

Hudbay originally did have a Clean Water Act permit, received in 2019, to build the proposed Rosemont Mine, just over the ridgeline from Copper World. But the company announced in May it was giving up the permit. That came after the Army Corps previously suspended the permit due to a 2019 court ruling by Soto that stopped the Rosemont work.

The Rosemont permit had also covered a utility corridor running from the Sahuarita area to the Santa Ritas that the Copper World project would also make use of.

The company pointed out that in Sotos May 23 ruling this year, the judge accepted Hudbays action of relinquishing the Clean Water Act permit, also known as a 404 Permit.

Also at issue is whether the Rosemont and Copper World projects are connected.

Soto accepted the companys view  disputed by mine opponents  that the projects are separate. That meant the Copper World project doesnt need additional analyses under environmental and historic preservation laws that would be related to previous analyses made of the Rosemont Mine by the Army Corps, the judge ruled.

Said Hudbay in a written statement: Chairman Grijalva clearly wrote this letter prior to Judge Sotos decision on May 23rd.  Specifically, Judge Soto determined that the Rosemont and Copper World projects are not connected actions, that the Corps is not required to consult with the tribes with respect to our current work on Copper World, and that it is illogical to argue that we cant surrender the 404 Permit.

Hudbay has not impacted any Native American archeological features and will not do so without first reaching out to the relevant tribe or tribes. We also surveyed the area for threatened and endangered plants and animals and are avoiding or relocating them prior to ground disturbance, the company said.

Regulatory role debated

The Copper World project would eventually include five open pits on the Santa Ritas west slope, which faces Sahuarita and Green Valley south of Tucson.

The long-stalled Rosemont Mine by the same company would be built on the mountain ranges east slope, facing the Sonoita area.

Copper World will still need two state permits before full construction of open pits could begin.

But unlike at Rosemont, which needed sign-offs from three federal agencies because it would make use of federal land, Copper World will be built entirely on private land. So it will need no federal approvals unless its determined the project needs a Clean Water Act permit for construction  an issue thats not even close to being resolved.

Grijalva sent his letter to Mike Connor, assistant secretary of the Army for civil works, and two of Connors deputies.

Responding to a question from the Star, Grijalva didnt say whether he was aware of Sotos ruling when he wrote the letter.

Instead, he said, Neither the court decision nor Hudbays assurances change my contention that the company cant simply vacate their permit and then do as they please.

Several weeks ago, Hudbay initiated groundbreaking activities for its vastly expanded Rosemont mine proposal, even though the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers suspended the companys Clean Water Act Section 404 Permit pending further review and analysis, Grijalva said, arguing that Copper World is connected to Rosemont.

Aerial photos document bulldozers filling the network of ephemeral streams on the site, impermissibly cutting off upstream waters of the United States protected by the Section 404 Permit, he wrote.

Waters of the U.S. are a technical term for any watercourses the federal government decides are worthy of regulation under the Clean Water Act if development is proposed.

The company agreed that there are waters of the United States flowing across the Copper World area; it cannot cut off those jurisdictional waters by hastily grading and filling downstream reaches, Grijalva wrote.

In its response to Grijalva, Hudbay told the Star, The Army Corps of Engineers has never determined that there are jurisdictional Waters of the U.S. in the area and Hudbay has independently concluded through its own scientific analysis that there are none.

The longstanding effort by Rosemont Copper, Hudbays Arizona subsidiary, to obtain a Clean Water Act permit for Rosemont was based on the company voluntarily consenting to the Corps jurisdiction without an actual determination, Hudbay said.

Stu Gillespie, an attorney for the three tribes, said Hudbay has studiously avoided seeking an Army Corps determination of whether it had jurisdiction over Copper World washes. Now, it tries to use that as a basis for claiming that no such determination has been made, he said  thats entirely circular.

The tribes stake

Grijalva wrote that Hudbays work is also degrading a traditional cultural landscape of deep significance to the Tohono Oodham Nation, Pascua Yaqui Tribe and Hopi Tribe, among other indigenous communities.

Those tribes unsuccessfully asked Soto to halt the grading.

The Army Corps needs to consult with Native American tribes to insure that any decision it makes regarding the Clean Water Act permit for Rosemont avoids or minimizes impacts to tribal cultural resources, Grijalva said. While that review occurs, the Corps should consider taking immediate action to cease Hudbays destruction of waters of the United States and traditional cultural properties.

The Santa Rita Mountains are a traditional cultural property under the National Historic Preservation Act, said Gillespie, the tribal attorney. Hudbays clearing and bulldozing that land is causing irreversible harm to a tribal cultural property, he said.

A federal paper that recommended designating the Santa Ritas as a traditional cultural property said the Tohono Oodham historically inhabited much of what is now Central and Southern Arizona.

For that tribe, the Santa Ritas contain a landscape imbued with cultural significance, a location of sacred sites, ancestral villages and ancestral remains, and a source of plant, animal, and mineral resources critical in maintaining traditional Oodham culture, the nomination paper said.

The Santa Rita Mountains are also considered of traditional cultural importance by other Native American groups, the nomination paper said.

Army Corps gathering information

For months, the Army Corps has been asked by tribes and environmental groups to stop Hudbay from doing work on the Copper World site without a Clean Water Act permit. But the agency has had no public response and had opposed the critics now-rejected lawsuit, which was filed on grounds unrelated to the Clean Water Act.

The Star asked the Corps last week if it had concluded whether Hudbays grading was violating the Clean Water Act. In an April federal court hearing, a Justice Department attorney said the agency was investigating that question but it would take time to complete such work.

Late Friday, the agencys Los Angeles District responded in a statement, The Corps is considering and gathering information concerning reports of construction activities at the Copper World project area and coordinating with (the Environmental Protection Agency) to determine what, if any, action is necessary.

Asked also about Hudbays surrendering its 2019 Clean Water Act permit, the Corps said it has no legal process to surrender permits but permit-holders can ask the Corps to consider revoking one. It noted it told Soto on May 4 that thats how its treating Hudbays action.

Sotos ruling, while calling the lawsuit against the grading moot because of Hudbays surrender of the permit, didnt revoke the permit and the Corps is continuing its revocation review process, the agencys L.A. office told the Star.

Before revoking a permit, the Corps will consider whether its in the public interest and evaluate a number of factors, the agency said.

Court rulings in play

Grijalvas letter comes as two court rulings are at play regarding the Rosemont and Copper World projects.

On May 12, 11 days before Sotos Copper World ruling, the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a 2019 ruling by Soto that has since blocked construction of the Rosemont Mine on the Santa Ritas east slope. Both courts concluded the U.S. Forest Service exceeded its legal authority by approving that mines use of federal land for dumping its waste rock and tailings.

Soto and the 9th Circuit agreed that a 150-year-old mining law doesnt allow the use of mining claims on federal land for disposal purposes unless valued minerals lie underneath the land on which the claims were filed. To date, no evidence has been provided that such minerals lie under the land on which Rosemont would put its wastes.

The mining company hasnt said whether it will appeal the 9th Circuit ruling to the U.S. Supreme Court. Attorneys for the tribes and environmental groups who unsuccessfully sought to block the Copper World grading also havent said whether theyll appeal Sotos latest ruling or file a citizens lawsuit arguing Hudbays discharges of fill material into Copper World-area washes violate the Clean Water Act.

On Thursday, an official in the Armys Civil Works Office told the Star its staff is preparing a response to Grijalvas letter.

Were drafting a response as we speak, said Col. Steven Sattinger, an executive officer in the Assistant Secretarys Office. It will go to the congressman, not the media.

We received the letter on May 25, and 15 days is a typical response time. That is when I expect Mr. Connor will be presented with the staff work on the letter, Sattinger said. How long he takes depends on his familiarity with the issue and the complexity of the response.

Contact Tony Davis at 520-349-0350 or tdavis@tucson.com. Follow Davis on Twitter@tonydavis987.

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PHOENIX  The organization at the forefront of stopping the last bid at enacting red flag gun laws in Arizona is ready to quash it again if Gov. Doug Ducey tries again.

And Charles Heller of the Tucson-based Arizona Citizens Defense League said the details of what the governor might offer really dont matter.

Theres no acceptable version or modification of a red flag law that will work for Arizona, he told Capitol Media Services.

The organization has proven its strength, going back to 2018 when Ducey first proposed the idea of setting up a system that would allow judges to order examinations of people to determine whether they are a danger to themselves or others and their firearms should be taken away.

A version of the plan was approved by the state Senate after the National Rifle Association agreed not to oppose it once the governor agreed to some changes. But the continued resistance from the politically powerful Citizens Defense League was enough to keep it from going anywhere in the House.

Ducey had no better luck with a somewhat different version in 2019.

Politics intervened, he said at the time. And he hasnt brought it up since.

But now, in his last year in office  and in the wake of a series of high-profile incidents that have moved the issue of gun regulations to the forefront  the governor may try again.

We thought it was good policy then, Ducey press aide C.J. Karamargin told Capitol Media Services late last month.

We still do, he continued. And we remain committed to measures to increase school safety.

The concept allows certain people to ask for a court-ordered evaluation based on evidence the person is a danger to self or others.

Ducey, for his part, never dubbed his program a red flag law. Instead, he said it would allow judges to issue a Severe Threat Order of Protection.

The difference, said Karamargin, is due-process protection for gun owners.

There would be a hearing where the person could dispute that evidence.

But it still would permit a judge to order what could be an involuntary evaluation and possible treatment. And, like a red flag order, that would preclude a person from purchasing or possessing firearms for up to 21 days, with options to renew for up to six months.

In introducing the proposal, Ducey cited what were, until that time, the five deadliest school shootings of the past 20 years, including the 2012 incident at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut, where 27 died.

In five out of five of the most deadly school shootings, the killers displayed warning signs of being a potential threat to themselves or others, according to the plan released by the governor. This stunning fact illustrates the need for a legal tool to keep firearms out of the hands of dangerous individuals.

There was no immediate response from an NRA lobbyist to what that organization now thinks of the idea of STOP orders. Heller, however, vowed full-scale opposition, saying such a law would only interfere with the constitutional rights of people to keep and bear arms without solving the problem.

Karamargin, however, said Ducey doesnt see what he proposed in 2018 and 2019  and may push again  that way.

It was a common-sense plan that protects the Second Amendment rights for law-abiding citizens while keeping guns out of the hands of dangerous individuals who are a lethal threat, he said.

But Heller disagreed. And he also contends a new law  whether labeled red flag or a STOP order  is not necessary.

He said there is a section of the states Public Health and Safety Code which allows any responsible individual to seek a court-ordered evaluation of an individual who is alleged to be a danger to self or others as a result of a mental disorder. The same statute permits people to seek an examination of those with a persistent or acute disability or a grave disability and who is unwilling or unable to undergo a voluntary evaluation.

Just that sworn and notarized application is enough for the health department to conduct a screening examination. It says, though, that, absent an emergency, the person cannot be detained or even forced to agree to that exam.

But there also are procedures for police to pick up someone for emergency admission to the state hospital.

What makes all that relevant, said Heller, is that federal law makes it illegal to sell or give a firearm to anyone who has been adjudicated as a mental defective or has been committed to any mental institution. And he contends that prohibition applies permanently.

Less clear, though, is whether those existing laws allowing people to be incarcerated and treated for mental illness are broad enough to deny firearms to those who do not fit that definition but have other behavioral issues, like making threats, or are abusing drugs.

But Heller said even if STOP orders duplicate laws already on the books he still would be opposed.

What is wrong with it is that it imposes multiple impairments, he said.

If you dont use the law that already exists, (and) you try and pass something else, you end up with government that can take a second bite at the apple, Heller complained. You end up with government that if they cant get you guns one way, theyll get them another.

And that, he said, is not acceptable  especially when it involves constitutional rights.

What youre doing is youre giving government more and more tools that it doesnt need, Heller said. And if you give somebody more tools, they want to use them. They want to exercise authority.

Then theres what he said is a more practical objection.

We dont have the cops in Tucson to answer felony calls, Heller said, noting statements last year from the Tucson Police Officers Association showing some Tucsonans waiting up to 23 hours for people to respond to a burglary that was no longer in progress.

Where the heck are you going to get the manpower to enforce red flag laws? he asked. Where are you going to find the cops to serve the order.

A TPD spokesman acknowledged Friday there was a time last year when officers did not respond to certain calls. But Sgt. Richard Gradillas said it was never determined by felonies.

He said there are still certain kinds of calls the agency encourages people to make a report over versus waiting for a police response, like car accidents with no injuries and shoplifting with no suspect in custody.

And Gradillas said officers will respond to burglaries, even if there is no suspect present if there is evidence that needs to be collected.

Based on our call load, officers are still going out to a large majority of calls, he said.

Heller said its not just red flag laws that his organization will oppose. He said that also goes for other proffered alternatives, ranging from universal background checks to bans on assault-style weapons. And he rejected the idea of saying that people should have to be 21  the age at which Arizonans can buy alcohol and marijuana  before they can purchase a firearm.

Theres no enumerated right to marijuana or alcohol in the constitution, Heller said.

What he would support  and says his group is willing to fund  is a program like FASTER, short for Faculty and Administrator Safety Training and Emergency Response. It covers everything from training school staff to carry firearms to providing trauma and first-aid response.

Howard Fischer is a veteran journalist who has been reporting since 1970 and covering state politics and the Legislature since 1982. Follow him on Twitter at @azcapmedia or email azcapmedia@gmail.com .

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MONROE, N.C. (AP)  A North Carolina man has been sentenced to death for the 2019 murder of his teenage daughter, according to the local prosecutor's office.

The Union County District Attorney's Office said in a news release Friday that a jury handed the sentence down after about three hours of deliberations following the three-week trial of 35-year-old Joshua Lee Burgess.

Burgess killed his 15-year-old daughter, Zaria, after psychologically and sexually torturing her for 22 hours," the news release said.

"This was truly an especially heinous, atrocious, and cruel killing of an innocent child. This case was emotionally taxing for everyone involved. We continue to grieve with and pray for Zarias mother," the news release said.

In addition to one count of first-degree murder, Burgess was convicted of one count of statutory rape, three counts of statutory sex offense, and one count of first-degree sexual exploitation of a minor. He received an additional minimum of nearly 76 years in prison for those offenses, according to the news release.

Authorities said at the time of Burgess's arrest that he had walked into a sheriff's office and confessed to the killing.

TV station WSOC previously reported Burgess's defense attorneys asked for his admission to be scrubbed from the record. It was not immediately clear who represented Burgess at trial or whether he would seek an appeal.

Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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By DANICA KIRKA and SYLVIA HUI Associated Press

LONDON (AP)  Prince Charles and his son Prince William honored the past and looked to the future Saturday as they paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II at a star-studded concert outside Buckingham Palace celebrating the monarch's 70 years on the throne.

Diana Ross, rock band Queen, Duran Duran, Alicia Keys and others performed in front of some 22,000 people gathered on the Mall for the open-air "Party at the Palace," which rounded up the third day of a four-day holiday weekend dedicated to celebrating the queen's Platinum Jubilee.

The 96-year-old monarch did not attend the concert, but she delighted the crowds when she appeared in a surprise video recorded with an animated version of another British national treasure: Paddington Bear.

The queen revealed she shared Paddington's love of marmalade sandwiches in a comedy skit that was shown to open the concert, which culminated in speeches by the monarch's son and grandson.

Charles opened his short speech by addressing the queen as "Your Majesty, mummy," then paid tribute to her "lifetime of selfless service."

The queen's eldest son and heir recalled the ever-growing list of world leaders Elizabeth has met and the endless stacks of state papers she has reviewed during a reign that has now stretched from the early days of the Cold War to the information age. But he also highlighted his mother's role as a symbol of stability, unifying the U.K. and the Commonwealth as they negotiated this rapidly changing world.

"You have met us and talked with us. You laugh and cry with us and, most importantly, you have been there for us, for these 70 years," Charles said as scenes from the queen's life were projected on the palace walls. "You pledged to serve your whole life  you continue to deliver. That is why we are here. That is what we celebrate tonight."

William preceded his father with remarks that underscored the queen's long-time commitment to the environment as he highlighted the need to combat climate change.

Recalling the queen's 1989 Christmas message, in which she called on all nations to work together to protect the earth for "our children and children's children," William said: "It's my firm hope that my grandmother's words are as true in 70 years' time as they are tonight, that as nations we come together in common cause, because then there is always room for hope."

The queen has not attended any of the festivities since Thursday due to what the palace describes as "episodic mobility issues." But her absence at the concert didn't dampen the party atmosphere among the crowds.

"It's a magical experience ... (This is) never again going to happen in our lifetime, and it's just absolutely incredible to be a part of this," said Sam Ahcquoim, from Cornwall in southwestern England. "I've been really, really excited and just can't wait to get in there now and start dancing."

The monarch also opted not to attend the Epsom Derby earlier Saturday, and was represented at the prestigious annual horse race by her daughter, Princess Anne.

The queen is widely known as an avid horse lover, and she has only missed the Epsom Derby a handful of times. On Saturday, five of her former racehorses were paraded, and 40 jockeys who have ridden for the queen formed a guard of honor before the national anthem was played.

"She's been breeding horses for over 60 years. She knows all the blood lines and she's won lots of races and she's very knowledgeable," Frankie Dettori, who lined part of the course with fellow jockeys, told the BBC.

"I'm sure today she'll find a TV and she's going to watch it live, because she loves the Derby so much," he added.

It was the second time in as many days that the queen's mobility issues have robbed crowds of a chance to see her.

On Friday, the queen skipped a special service of Thanksgiving in her honor at St. Paul's Cathedral in London. Palace officials said she had experienced "some discomfort" at events the day before, which included waving to huge crowds from Buckingham Palace.

Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan, were among nearly 50 members of the royal family who gathered Friday at St. Paul's Cathedral to honor the absent head of state. It was the couple's first public appearance in the U.K. since they stepped back from royal duties and moved to California two years ago.

Apart from attending Friday's service, the couple has so far stayed out of the limelight. Their two children, Archie and Lilibet, who turned one Saturday, haven't yet made an appearance during this trip. A spokesperson for the couple said they were spending the day "privately" and were not joining some 30 other royals at Saturday's concert.

Meanwhile, members of the royal family travelled to Wales and Northern Ireland as part of celebrations across the U.K.

William and his wife Kate brought two of their three children  8-year-old Prince George and 7-year-old Princess Charlotte  to Cardiff Castle in Wales before a separate concert in the castle grounds in honor of the queen.

The queen's youngest son, Prince Edward, and his wife Sophie, Countess of Wessex, visited a 1950s-themed seaside funfair in Belfast. Edward tried his hand at pulling a pint of Guinness at a diner, while Sophie took in a '50s and '60s dance demonstration.

___

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What separates our favorite travel destinations from the rest? The way memories linger.

If youre looking for a list  maybe you want to get a taste of California without involving the Hollywood sign  Ive picked 10 places that resonate most deeply for me. This is the list that, after having covered California travel, nature and culture for more than 30 years, I find myself reciting most often.

I feel a certain depth in these places, and usually ease too, perhaps because nobody needs to sell them. You show up, take a deep breath, listen a little, have a look around, and you are reminded of what makes California unique.
UNITED NATIONS, June 4 (Xinhua) -- United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Saturday urged businesses worldwide to prioritize sustainability ahead of World Environment Day, which falls on June 5 annually.

"We are asking too much of our planet to maintain ways of life that are unsustainable," and this hurts not only Earth but also its inhabitants, the UN chief said.

"Businesses need to put sustainability at the heart of their decision-making for the sake of humanity and their own bottom line. A healthy planet is the backbone of nearly every industry on Earth," he added.

"This planet is our only home," the top UN official said, warning the planet "cannot keep up with our demands." It is of utmost importance to safeguard the "health of the planet, including its atmosphere, ecosystems and finite resources," Guterres emphasized.

"We are far from succeeding. We can no longer ignore the alarm bells that ring louder every day," warned the top UN official.

More than 3 billion people are affected by degraded ecosystems. Pollution causes some 9 million premature deaths each year, and more than 1 million plant and animal species risk extinction, many within decades, according to the UN chief.

And by 2050, more than 200 million people risk displacement through climate disruption each year, he added.

"Close to half of humanity is already in the climate danger zone, 15 times more likely to die from climate impacts such as extreme heat, floods and drought," he said, adding that there is "a 50:50 chance" that global temperatures will breach the Paris Agreement limit of 1.5 degrees Celsius in the next five years.

Guterres urged governments to prioritize climate action and environmental protection through policy decisions that promote sustainable progress.

The secretary-general also outlined recommendations to activate renewable energy everywhere by making renewable technologies and raw materials available to all, cutting red-tapism, shifting subsidies and tripling investment.

Guterres reiterated the UN commitment to lead cooperative global efforts, "because the only way forward is to work with nature, not against it."

World Environment Day is the UN's principal vehicle for encouraging awareness and action for the protection of the environment. This year's theme is "Only One Earth." 
During the making of "Obvious Child," director/screenwriter Gillian Robespierre had a few balls in the air.

Would Jenny Slate's Donna, a fledgling stand-up comedian with a penchant for potty humor, end up with Jake Lacy's buttoned-up Max? And would Robespierre find investors who'd trust her to make the movie she wanted as a first-time filmmaker?

Over the several years it took to get "Obvious Child" to theaters, though, one pivotal point was never in doubt: The film's protagonist was going to have an abortion, free of shame and regret.

"Obvious Child" was one of the first films  and a comedy, at that  to depict an abortion in a way that wasn't traumatic or life-upending. Slate's protagonist gets pregnant, decides to have an abortion and emerges a stronger comedian, fart jokes intact. The procedure doesn't destroy her life, and it isn't meaningless either. It just is.

"The challenge wasn't to make a funny movie about abortion, but it was to make a movie that was romantic and funny and dealt with an unplanned pregnancy with an abortion without shame," Robespierre told CNN.

Since "Obvious Child" premiered in 2014, abortion storylines have grown more numerous and nuanced, reflective of the breadth of patients' experiences. The decision to have an abortion sets the plot in motion in celebrated films like Eliza Hittman's "Never Rarely Sometimes Always." Characters choose to end pregnancies in pivotal episodes of streaming series like "Sex Education," "Bojack Horseman" and "Dear White People" and network TV staples like "Station 19" and "Jane the Virgin."

All of those series and films depict abortion differently. They vary in tone; characters' motivations are unique. There is no one "right" way to tell an abortion story. But seeing them onscreen can humanize the issue that's become wildly divisive, said Steph Herold, a research analyst at Abortion Onscreen, a project at the University of California San Francisco that tracks and studies abortion storylines in media.

"Seeing characters have abortions on television [or in film] may be the first time someone sees abortion as a personal issue, not just a political issue," Herold said.

As the future of Roe v. Wade dominates the news, Robespierre and Hittman have seen renewed interest in their films. They spoke with CNN about how they crafted the abortion plotlines in their films with care and respect  and what their films mean to viewers now.

Robespierre made a comedy about abortion with heart

When "Obvious Child" was released eight years ago, it felt quietly revolutionary to depict a single woman in her late 20s deciding, without trepidation, to end a pregnancy. But it's "not that unique," Robespierre noted. About 18% of pregnancies in the U.S. end in induced abortion, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported in 2021. In 2019, the CDC recorded nearly 630,000 abortions.

What became a relatable, groundbreaking rom-com started out as a personal story, Robespierre said.

"The blueprint was my life," she told CNN.

Like "Obvious Child's" Donna, Robespierre had an abortion around Valentine's Day. Her mother, like Donna's parent, also told Robespierre about an abortion she'd had in the 1960s, before the Roe v. Wade decision made abortion legal nationwide. Both of their stories shaped what would become Robespierre's feature debut.

The women in Robespierre's family made her feel comfortable to discuss abortion and supported her when she decided to have one. It's why she made the film, she said  "to continue the history of what an abortion could look like with that support and love."

Even with support, though, abortion isn't always easy to access, and "Obvious Child" spotlights those barriers, too. In one scene, Donna is discussing the procedure in a Planned Parenthood office in New York. After cracking a disarming joke to settle her nerves, she finally breaks down when she learns the procedure will cost her $500.

"That's, like, my whole rent, almost," Donna tells a physician through tears.

"She held it together, and she's being strong and stoic, but then the price of the abortion is what kind of put her over the edge, and that's the take we used," Robespierre said. "It just felt really authentic."

How 'Never Rarely Sometimes Always' portrays obstacles to abortion access

Like "Obvious Child," much of Eliza Hittman's heartbreakingly realistic film, "Never Rarely Sometimes Always," takes place at Planned Parenthood offices in New York. But the protagonist of the 2020 film is almost entirely on her own.

The award-winning Sundance stunner follows Autumn, played by first-time actor Sidney Flanagan, a small-town Pennsylvania teen who learns she's pregnant and heads to Manhattan on a days-long odyssey to access an abortion.

"I knew I wanted it to be about somebody traveling from out of state into New York City and all of the obstacles they encounter while trying to access safe reproductive care," Hittman said.

Ever-committed to realism, Hittman said she spent years researching the processes her protagonist would eventually go through on camera. Hittman visited abortion clinics in New York as well as pregnancy care centers, which are often affiliated with anti-abortion groups, both of which make appearances in the film. Hittman took pregnancy tests and sat for counseling sessions with a social worker she ended up casting in the film, then filtered what she learned through the perspective of Autumn.

The emotional centerpiece of the film comes before Autumn's procedure, which Hittman doesn't show in the film. In a particularly wrenching scene, during which a Planned Parenthood staffer is interviewing Autumn about her relationship history, we learn that our lead has been in unhealthy, even abusive relationships before she's turned 18.

Kelly Chapman, the real-life social worker who plays a Planned Parenthood counselor in the film, told Hittman that the "crisis is never the abortion," but what's happening in a patient's life. That pivotal interview scene fills in important blanks about Autumn's personal life  and may echo the experiences of many viewers.

Hittman's film, like Robespierre's debut, also plainly depicts what an appointment at Planned Parenthood looks like. And while Autumn's nerves are palpable during those scenes, the office feels safer than most other settings in the film, including Autumn's workplace and home. It's the scenes in which Autumn and the cousin who accompanies her are sexually harassed, or when we notice the teens put their guard up around potentially predatory men, that feel terrifying rather than the scenes at the abortion clinic. Those "small, transformational" moments that the characters brush off to make it through their days, Hittman said, form a composite of the misogynistic society in which the story takes place.

How abortion storylines are changing

Herold, the UCSF research analyst, said the number of onscreen abortions has surged over the last several years from 13 storylines in 2016 to 47 in 2021. She noted that these newer storylines have mostly abandoned the "will-they, won't-they" element  characters are often resolute in their decision to go through with the procedure.

"We're not only seeing more depictions [of abortion] than we have in previous years," she said, "but there is much less focus on the emotional decision-making" before the abortion takes place.

Instead, Herold said, more recent storylines explore how characters will move forward with terminating a pregnancy. The Shondaland drama "Station 19" earlier this year depicted a character who chose to have a medication abortion, a method by which someone ends their pregnancy by taking two pills, which Herold said is rarely depicted in media. A woman firefighter spends much of the episode on the toilet  a reality of medication abortions, she said  and a friend offers to be her abortion doula in an example of the "kind of emotional support model we want to see onscreen," Herold said.

Most TV storylines about abortion focus on young White women, often still in their teens, without children, Herold said  but that's not representative of most abortion patients in the US. Per the Guttmacher Institute, a research center that supports access to reproductive health care, 75% of US abortion patients are poor or low-income, 60% are in their 20s and 59% already have a child.

But some series are increasingly spotlighting under-discussed elements of abortion. The soapy TNT series "Claws" got real about racism in the foster care system and the financial constraints of accessing reproductive health care, Herold said. Nail tech Virginia (played by Karreuche Tran) also shares her abortion with her coworkers, which leads them to open up about their experiences with abortion, pregnancy and sexual assault. Herold said this can happen in real life, too, as one person's disclosure allows others to open up about their experiences. (TNT and CNN share parent company Warner Bros. Discovery.)

"It's a game-changer to see multiple people sharing their abortion experiences on TV, so that audiences don't get stuck thinking that only a certain type of person or certain type of character has an abortion," she said.

Though these storylines may educate viewers, they may not change their stances on abortion. In 2019, Herold and UCSF researchers studied the impact of a "Grey's Anatomy" episode in which a patient gets a medication abortion after attempting to induce one on her own. Herold said viewers' understanding of medication abortions "significantly increased" after watching the episode, but increased knowledge "did NOT translate to increased support of abortion in general."

With access at risk, audiences are seeking out abortion stories

Hittman and Robespierre, who are both mothers, said they've heard from countless viewers who saw themselves in the films and felt moved to share their abortion experiences.

Hittman said she recently ran into an acquaintance she hadn't seen in years who told her about traveling across states to receive an abortion as a minor. Watching "Never Rarely Sometimes Always" was like watching her story, the acquaintance told her.

"People don't want to carry these stories" in silence, Hittman said.

Both films are subtly radical in the way they tell abortion stories, even if the fictional portrayals takes cues from the very real experiences of abortion patients. And so audiences are revisiting them  both films screened last month at New York's Metrograph as part of its "It Happens to Us: Abortion in American Film" series

"Obvious Child" was often described upon its release as an "abortion rom-com," a descriptor Robespierre initially resisted. But then she realized that, in every interview, review and discussion about her film, people would have to use the word "abortion." And eight years later, it still gets people talking.

"I'm not in the business of changing anyone's mind," Robespierre said. "I'm trying to be honest and authentic [in her filmmaking]. And by being honest, it kind of becomes punk rock and different and political."
Authorities on Sunday said no device was found following a bomb threat Saint Francis Hospital in Muskogee.

Muskogee police were assisting the Oklahoma Highway Patrols bomb squad in searching the area of the hospital after the anonymous threat was made about 1:30 p.m., Muskogee police said in a news release.

Late Sunday afternoon, the scene was cleared after no device was found, police said.

The bomb threat was at least the second in Muskogee in the last few days. On Wednesday, a bomb threat was made at the residence of Michael Louis, 45, who authorities said was the gunman who killed four people at a Saint Francis Hospital building in Tulsa before taking his own life.

It took authorities about three hours to issue the all clear following Wednesdays bomb threat in a Muskogee neighborhood. The nature of that threat remains under investigation, authorities said last week.
Tulsa County District Attorney Steve Kunzweiler says hes concerned about the lack of information hes received on how the more than 1,000 cases his office has sent to tribal prosecutors in the last few years have been handled.

Tribal officials, however, say the information has been made available.

Before the U.S. Supreme Courts McGirt ruling in 2020, Kunzweiler said he had never referred a case to a tribe for consideration of prosecution.

Before McGirt, we had jurisdiction over all crimes, Kunzweiler said, adding that the state had jurisdiction regardless of whether somebody was a tribal member.

The one exception during his prosecutorial career, Kunzweiler said, was when a homicide occurred on allotted tribal land and the federal government picked up the case.

That all changed with the McGirt ruling, which affirmed the continued existence of the Muscogee Nation reservation, which includes much of the city of Tulsa.

From the July 2020 McGirt ruling through March, the Tulsa County District Attorneys Office has referred 737 cases to the Muscogee Nation for prosecution, according to a spokeswoman for the office.

It has forwarded 432 cases to the Cherokee Nation, whose reservation also covers part of Tulsa County and which is among the five other tribes to which a state appellate court has applied the McGirt rationale. The other reservations to which it applies are the Choctaw, Chickasaw, Quapaw and Seminole nations.

Now state courts have no jurisdiction when a crime suspect or victim is an American Indian and the crime occurred on one of the six reservations.

Kunzweiler said he has no idea how the cases referred to tribal courts are resolved.

I dont have the ability to share that information on cases that have gone to other jurisdictions outside of my office, he said.

I have asked for dispositions on cases (where) weve made referrals, Kunzweiler said. Ive asked, Could you please just let me know? so I can inform the victim.

And Ive not received any disposition information, whether its been filed, whether its been followed through with prosecution  the things that we have been doing for decades to keep our law enforcement and victims informed.

Asked about Kunzweilers concerns, the Muscogee Nation issued the following statement in response:

Consistent with our commitment to collaborating with other jurisdictions and agencies, the Muscogee (Creek) Nation makes information on specific cases readily available to any entity or individual.

There is no reason for the Tulsa County District Attorneys Office to feel uninformed about the status of individual cases they have referred to our jurisdiction. In support of public safety for all, we are here to help, and we encourage the DAs office to reach out to us on specific cases anytime.

We have a variety of easily accessible resources for case information and victim support. There is a McGirt Resources button on the home page of our Nations website (muscogeenation.com) that provides a link to our tribal-court database  with instructions  and comprehensive contact information for other resources.

The web page also provides direct contact information for two case-information liaisons who are dedicated to researching cases when more information is needed. We also list contact information for our prosecutors and Lighthorse Police officials.

This page also provides ways for crime victims to connect 24-hours-a-day with our victims services team members who are tasked with providing support and updates to victims.

We are here to help support the administration of justice and public safety for everyone.

Since the McGirt decision was issued, the tribal nations affected by the ruling have collectively taken on more than 13,000 criminal filings, according to a tribal court filing in the U.S. Supreme Court case that is expected to determine whether the state has jurisdiction in cases involving non-tribal members who are accused of committing crimes against tribal members within a reservation.

Tracking those cases was a challenge initially as no tribal criminal court case information was available online.

Since then, the Cherokee and Choctaw nations have joined the Muscogee Nation in developing their own version of the state of the Oklahoma State Courts Network, which permits online access to court filings and docket information.

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July 2021 video: McGirt forum gets noisy: How many cases can the feds handle?

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Paddington and popcorn: Sapulpas Book and Snack Mobile will be making stops four days per week through July 28 in northeastern Creek County.

Students visiting the refurbished school bus will be able to check out a book and will be offered a snack.

Operated through a partnership between Sapulpa Public Schools and Caring Community Friends, Creek Countys largest community food bank and emergency assistance agency, the bus will also have prepared meals available through the U.S. Department of Agricultures Summer Feeding Program.

A full schedule is available online at tinyurl.com/SapulpaBus.

Testing tweak: The state Department of Education will accept Praxis assessments in 44 subject areas as a teaching certification alternative to the Oklahoma Subject Area Tests, the department announced Wednesday.

State law allows the state to certify individuals who have successfully completed a competency assessment used in a majority of other states. Praxis exams are used in teacher certification programs across the nation, including in Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri and New Mexico.

New leadership: Pending approval at Monday nights Bixby school board meeting, Mickey Replogle will be the next principal of Bixby High School.

Replogles resume includes stints at Wagoner, Stilwell, Clinton, Inola, Broken Arrow and Muskogee public schools.

Four-day week: Broken Arrow Public Schools Education Service Center and Enrollment Center will be closed on Fridays in June and July.

With the exception of July 8, Union Public Schools Education Service Center will also be closed on Fridays in June and July.

Registration help: Tulsa Public Schools is hosting a summer programming registration-help session from 4-7 p.m. Tuesday at Saint Francis Xavier Catholic Church. Interpretation services will be available.

Registration for TPS school-based summer programs closes on Wednesday.

School board calendar: The boards of education for the Anderson, Bixby, Broken Arrow, Owasso, Sand Springs and Tulsa school districts have meetings scheduled Monday.

The Keystone and Lone Star boards are scheduled to meet Tuesday.

The Board of Education for Epic One-on-One and Epic Blended charter schools is scheduled to meet Wednesday in Oklahoma City.

 Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton, Tulsa World

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With 2-3 inches of rain expected that day, every armchair hydrologist expected the Army Corps of Engineers to announce a record release: Niagara Falls times three, maybe more. But the Tulsa District official stuck to the Army Corps playbook: make decisions based only on rain already on the ground.
For six years, Dr. Komi Folly was able to deliver lifesaving medical supplies and surgical treatment to those in need in his native Togo, West Africa, in large part because of the shared altruism of one colleague he met in Tulsa.

The endeavor evolved into a full-fledged nonprofit Folly called Light in the World Development Foundation.

But now his world has been plunged into darkness.

He is haunted by one of their final conversations.

Haunted by how many more lives his friend and mentor, Dr. Preston Phillips, could have saved had his own life not been cut short by a madman with a gun.

Everything changed Wednesday evening.

Folly had just finished with his last patient in the emergency room when an active shooter alert rippled across the massive campus surrounding Saint Francis Hospital.

In his office, his phone began to ring  first it was his daughter calling to check on him. Then it was a representative from the local company that provides free prosthetics for joint repair surgeries on their medical mission trips, frantic because he could not get ahold of Phillips.

Folly hung up and tried dialing.

Usually when I call him, the phone does not ring three times before he answers, Folly said. I call him. (This time) it rings like five times  nothing. I call, and I call.

Within a few minutes, the signal came that people could move about, so Folly darted back to the emergency room.

The phone rang once more, but this time it was one of the surgical technicians for whom Phillips always covered airfare costs for mission trips to Togo.

She was crying hysterically.

Dr. Folly, Dr. Phillips did not make it. My world, everything became dark for me, Folly said, recounting the dreadful moment without prompting. Its not that I lost a coworker. I lost a father, I lost a mentor. I never in my life have somebody like Dr. Phillips  so talented, so humble, so passionate, Christian.

His peace is contagious. His love is contagious. His smile is imbued with understanding.

Colleagues first, the two men bonded as friends in 2016 when they took on a particularly complicated medical case that was bleak from the onset.

The patient, Folly recalled, came in with a septic infection in his knee and was extremely hypotensive.

But Phillips took the man into the operating room and then Folly oversaw his long, hard-won recovery in the hospital.

I called him and said, `We are sending him home, Folly said. That was the first time he called me son. He said, Son, I will be there. From that moment, he never called me Komi, he never called me Dr. Folly. He called me son, and I called him father.

Every time after that I call him, I say `I just sent the patient home. He would come and shake my hand and say `We did it!

Meeting a fellow physician who was driven not by paychecks but by purpose and the satisfaction that comes from helping others prompted Folly to share with his friend about stark differences between the medical resources and care available in America and his native Togo.

There, he had once witnessed a hemorrhaging woman die because of a lack of access to protective medical examination gloves  something he would never encounter working in Tulsa.

He also told Phillips, who specialized in orthopedics, how it is commonplace for women in Togo to earn a households primary income by carrying heavy merchandise, sometimes atop their heads, to market.

By the age of 40 or 50, they have completely turned their knees, and they become disabled. Poverty ramps up, and it affects the entire family, Folly recalled telling his friend over lunch one day.

Phillips response was simple.

He said, `This is not normal. We can fix it.

Light in the World was founded, complete with 501(c)3 tax exemption for charitable organizations and eventually, diplomatic status in Togo to allow for easier mission travel from the U.S., sometimes three or four times a year.

They secured extensive support for their work from a medical equipment and supplies program of the Rotary Club District 6110, OMNI life science Inc. and Saint Francis Health System.

In fact, Phillips longtime favorite surgical table from Tulsa was donated and shipped all the way to Togo, where it is still used today.

Follys smile was practically audible as he recalled how donating the old table was actually a ploy by Saint Francis executives to get Phillips to give it up so a new, more technologically advanced one could be brought into the operating room he and other surgeons use.

This is his table, he liked it, he want to keep it, Folly said. Saint Francis come to him and say, What if we donate that table to Light in the World? He said, You got me. Donate that one.

People from all over Togo and even neighboring countries including Ghana and Burkina Faso come for treatment during Light in the Worlds mission trips.

Folly fondly recalls one early mission trip when a woman woke up from joint replacement surgery overjoyed for the help she had received.

She woke up laughing and laughing, she was so happy. So Dr. Phillips was laughing, Folly said. This is a guy who bought his own ticket to come far and give life to people. He was so happy not because someone was going to pay him, but because of the life-changing happiness his work brought to people.

Their next mission trip was scheduled for June 23. They were scheduled to operate on 25 people over five days.

Folly got emotional when he recounted how Phillips brought up the subject of the future during one of their very last conversations, held over lunch in the physicians lounge at Saint Francis.

Last Friday, we were eating. He said Listen to this, Son: You know I am older than you. If nature were to take somebody first, it might be me. In case something happened to me, you are to continue this project, said Folly, nearly a decade Phillips junior.

He said he responded by joking that they should continue their mission work together until they both are so old that their patients in Togo have to meet them at their airplane to help them off with their walkers.

I did not know that was the last instruction of my father, my friend, my mentor, he said, beginning to weep. I didnt know that was the last time. I didnt have the chance to say goodbye to him.

To carry on, Folly must not only find a surgeon to take Phillips place, he must also find two things that seem even more elusive to him at the moment  enough hope and enough will to move forward.

If this project stops, its like I betray him, Folly said. I am praying that I can go on for the people and that we continue his legacy to keep him alive.

One legacy Phillips left behind in good stead for his friend and colleague is inspiration.

When I heard that he was taking care of patients and died in his lab coat  because of who he represents for me  I dont think I will ever be able to retire, Folly said. I will continue working until my last moment, so one day when we meet, I will say, Father, I continued the call of what you asked me to do.

But Folly must also contend with the legacy of a gunman, a disgruntled patient apparently enraged by post-operative pain from a surgery Phillips conducted only two weeks earlier.

That legacy is not only one of profound loss, but of devastation from seeing a life needlessly cut short  and the knowledge that Phillips should have had many more years of life-saving work ahead of him.

This guy, he kill a lot of people  not just one person, Folly said of the gunman.

Then he asked to share one final statement about his friend with the world.

I have no words to describe Dr. Phillips and our relationship. I do not have that vocabulary  maybe somebody can borrow me some. I do not, I do not, Folly said, crying. I dont know why God send him, why I had to meet him, why we are so close. Why? I dont know why.

I prefer not to know him than to suffer this way. But it is Gods way  and I accept it. I had a brief moment with him. And I know we are called to have faith.

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MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP)  Mike Durant, the Black Hawk Down pilot who finished third in Alabama's Republican Senate primary, said he will not make an endorsement in the upcoming runoff.

Durant said he will not endorse either of the remaining candidates for the GOP nomination for the Senate seat being vacated by retiring U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby. The June 21 runoff pits Katie Britt, Shelbys former chief of staff and former leader of a state business group, against U.S. Rep. Mo Brooks, who resurrected his campaign after losing former President Donald Trumps backing.

Durant said the choices are a candidate that has been in the public office for 40 years and another he called really not qualified and accused of running an ethically challenged campaign that distorted his views.

Thats what people have to decide. Unfortunately, its not a great option, Durant said.

Durant is the owner of an aerospace company but best known as the helicopter pilot who was held captive in Somalia during the 1993 battle chronicled in Black Hawk Down." With his military background, Durant entered the race with a splash but ultimately ended in third place.

He said his first foray into politics was a disenchanting one and will also be his last. He blamed his campaign's demise on a bombardment of negative ads he called blatant" mistruths.

If people say, well, thats just politics. Well, then dont complain about what we have in Washington. Thats not politics. Wrong is wrong, he said.

Super PACS spent more than $20 million to influence the Alabama primary, with ads being run against all three candidates.

Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Federal prosecutors in Oklahoma have declined to file thousands of criminal cases since the Supreme Courts 2020 McGirt decision swamped U.S. attorneys offices in the state with new case requests, according to a Tulsa World analysis of prosecution data.

The ruling has had major impacts on two of three federal judicial districts in Oklahoma: the Eastern and Northern districts. In the first full fiscal year after the McGirt ruling, the number of cases not prosecuted in those two districts increased more than 10-fold, going from 336 cases in fiscal year 2020 to 4,084 cases in fiscal year 2021.

In all, 5,847 criminal cases referred to federal prosecutors in the two districts during an 18-month period since the McGirt ruling have not been prosecuted in federal court, according to a Tulsa World analysis of records made available by the Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse at Syracuse University.

The U.S. Supreme Courts McGirt ruling in July 2020, and subsequent rulings by a state appeals court, established that Congress had never disestablished the reservations of the following eastern Oklahoma tribes: Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Muscogee, Quapaw and Seminole.

That means the state of Oklahoma does not have jurisdiction in criminal cases involving tribal members within those six reservations, which cover most of eastern Oklahoma.

The landmark ruling caused a crush of new cases to be filed at the federal level. Initially, many of the new federal cases were filed when state cases were dismissed for jurisdictional reasons.

Northern District

In Tulsa County alone, the District Attorneys Office had referred 1,056 criminal cases to federal prosecutors since the McGirt ruling through March, according to a spokeswoman.

The rapid increase in cases not prosecuted doesnt mean federal prosecutors in eastern Oklahoma have not been busy since the McGirt ruling was released. In fact, they have been busy enough to move the national needle on federal prosecutions.

In one month alone  May 2021  federal prosecutors in Oklahoma accounted for 100 of the 154 criminal prosecutions launched nationwide in federal court, according to TRAC data.

In the federal Northern District of Oklahoma, which includes the city of Tulsa, federal prosecutors received 3,961 cases for consideration during the 18-month period between October 2020 and March 2022, according to TRAC data.

During the same period, Northern District prosecutors filed charges in 1,110 cases. Prior to the McGirt ruling, the most prosecutions filed in one year in the Northern District totaled 372 in fiscal 2019, while in a more typical year about 256 cases were filed, according to TRAC records dating to 1986.

Clint Johnson, U.S. attorney for the Northern District of Oklahoma, said in an interview that most of the cases his office declines to prosecute are referred to tribal courts for consideration.

Johnson said his office has referred 2,212 so-called Indian Country cases to various tribal officials for prosecution consideration since the McGirt ruling.

Johnson said the cases referred to tribal officials tend to be lower-level property crimes where the defendant is American Indian, so the tribe has jurisdiction.

Tribal courts generally dont have jurisdiction over non-American Indians defendants, except in cases of domestic violence.

Some cases were declined for federal prosecution after a state appellate court ruled that the McGirt decision was not retroactive, meaning inmates could not have their state convictions overturned on McGirt grounds if their original appeal had already concluded, Johnson said.

Other declined cases involved evidence problems where a witness may have died or other evidence issues arose, Johnson said.

Eastern District

The federal prosecution trend has been similar, if not more pronounced, in the Muskogee-based Eastern District.

Eastern District referrals jumped from 312 in FY 2020 to 3,130 in FY 2021, according to TRAC records.

And while Eastern District prosecutions more than tripled from FY 2020 to FY 2021, the number not prosecuted jumped more than 2,000%, going from 94 cases in FY 2020 to 2,333 cases in FY 2021.

But determining how many of the cases referred to tribal officials actually were or werent prosecuted can be difficult, as there is no central tracking system.

A Muscogee Nation official said the tribe does not track cases by agency origin and could not say how many criminal cases ultimately have not been prosecuted in tribal court since the McGirt ruling.

However, Muscogee Nation Attorney General Geri Wisner said her office is dedicated to bringing justice to tribal victims.

It is the intention of the Muscogee Nation Office of the Attorney General to prosecute and seek justice on every case that falls within our jurisdiction, Wisner said. Since the McGirt ruling, our Nation has made substantial investments to increase capacity throughout our criminal justice system.

The assumption is that we will prosecute. One exception is in the case of domestic violence where the victim decides not to pursue charges.

The nation provided several examples to the Tulsa World where tribal charges had been filed after federal prosecutors declined to prosecute.

One case involves Tulsa Police Officer Michael Donovan Bell.

The Nations Lighthorse Police officers arrested Bell in April on felony child-abuse allegations filed against him in tribal court. Bell and the alleged infant victim are both American Indians.

The U.S. Attorneys Office, which has concurrent jurisdiction, declined to file charges against Bell, according to the Muscogee Nation.

Wisner, who assumed the attorney general post in April, said her office will continue to pursue cases with concurrent jurisdiction.

Because too often, and Im not saying anything negative or disparaging about our federal partners, but the reality is too often a lot of these cases are not prosecuted. They get declinations, and instead of there being no other jurisdiction, the Muscogee Nation is going to step up, Wisner said.

Another ruling sought

Asked how many criminal case referrals the Cherokee Nation had received from U.S. attorneys offices since the McGirt ruling, Cherokee Nation Attorney General Sara Hill provided the following emailed response:

There is no formal process for referrals from the federal government. Each case is different; sometimes a case may come to Cherokee Nation first because a defendant has been arrested by a tribal or state officer on tribal charges. If the facts warrant, we may request that the U.S. Attorneys Office consider it for prosecution. In these cases, the Nation may, but is not legally required to, dismiss the tribal case once a federal case is filed.

Other cases are referred directly to the federal government by local or tribal law enforcement (acting under federal law enforcement commissions) and we may file tribal charges if declined by the U.S. Attorney Office or the FBI.

Still other times, we may anticipate federal charges and still file tribal charges to ensure public safety in the meantime.

There is a constant stream of communication between tribal, state and federal law enforcement officers and prosecutors as the facts of the case develop. That process of constant communication ultimately results in a decision by one or more of the agencies involved filing a new criminal case, or declining a case.

An April U.S. Supreme Court filing on behalf of the Five Tribes  the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Muscogee and Seminole nations  indicated that they had collectively filed nearly 13,000 criminal cases in their respective tribal courts.

McGirt decision detractors have assailed what they claim is a trend of non-American Indians victimizing American Indians and getting away with it because cases are not being prosecuted.

Chief among those detractors is Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt, who has called unsuccessfully for McGirt to be overturned or, in the alternative, reduced in scope.

The U.S. Supreme Court is poised to rule next month on the later issue: whether the state of Oklahoma has jurisdiction in Indian Country criminal cases where the suspect is non-native and the victim is a tribal member.

Stitt claims that a favorable ruling is needed to protect American Indians from being victimized by nontribal members.

The U.S. attorneys are not prosecuting anything if its not a massive, massive rape or murder, Stitt told the Tulsa World Editorial Board in January.

But Johnson said his office intends to begin prosecuting lower-level cases that it has accepted.

As we work through this process, my prosecutors are going back once they are able to breathe a little bit and start to take care of those cases and then worry about the cases going forward, Johnson said.

He said his office is accepting cases with every intent that we are going to prosecute them. He said there are just some you have to prioritize based on the type of crime that it is.

As to complaints from some that property crimes such as vehicle theft are going uninvestigated, Johnson said his office refers those with a tribal suspect to the respective tribal court, while those with a non-American Indian suspect will be prosecuted in federal court.

In cases where the federal government is the only agency that can file a charge, it will do so, Johnson said.

When we are the only game in town, what I mean by that is we are the only person, the only ones that have jurisdiction, Johnson said, we are taking those cases. We are opening those cases, and we are investigating those cases.

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Guns: Interviewed by ABC News in the wake of last weeks shootings in south Tulsa, 2nd District Congressman and U.S. Senate candidate Markwayne Mullin said any discussion of firearms must consider the purity of the Second Amendment.

If were really gonna be talking about us upholding the Constitution  which every one of us, every member of Congress, swore to uphold the Constitution of the United States  youve got to think about the 2nd Amendment and its purity.

Alone among the rights enumerated in the Constitution, Mullin said, the right to bear arms is absolute because of the phrase shall not be abridged. The other nine amendments in the Bill of Rights include phrasing such as Congress shall make no law, No soldier shall, No person shall and The right of the people  shall not be violated.

There is considerable disagreement among constitutional scholars about the intended meaning of the 2nd Amendment, with some contending it has little meaning today because it was written when state and local militias made up almost all of the nations military strength.

Others, including the U.S. Supreme Court, disagree.

All of that said, Mullin acknowledged some limitations do exist. He did not seem to object to the example of a minimum age for gun ownership, but he said mental illness is too hard to define to make it a condition for denying possession of a firearm.

Thats something Im not willing to trust the courts with, Mullin said.

Instead, he said, the federal government should come up with the money to make schools hard targets, and suggested using COVID relief funds earmarked for education.

Kendra Horn, the Democratic nominee for the same Senate seat Mullin is seeking, told CBS: We just cant continue to go down this path. We have to do better. We have to push back at the extremism that is fraying the fabric of our democracy to the point that leaders are ignoring the complex issues, using talking points to attack each other and not solve these very real issues.

We can take steps to protect our communities without limiting the rights of responsible gun owners, added Horn, who voted for background checks during her one term in Congress. Pointing fingers and demanding all-or-nothing solutions leaves us stuck.

Campaigns and elections: The Oklahoma Farm Bureaus political action committee endorsed 13 candidates, all Republicans, ahead of the June 28 party primaries.

The 13 include all five incumbent members of the congressional delegation seeking re-election, Gov. Kevin Stitt, Attorney General John OConnor and Auditor and Inspector Cindy Byrd.

Financial contributions were made to 26 other candidates, also all Republican.

It should be noted that there are very few Democratic primaries this year.

Former 1st District Congressman Jim Bridenstine endorsed former state Sen. Josh Brecheen in the 14-way 2nd Congressional District Republican primary.

In that same crowded race, Muskogee Police Chief Johnny Teehee put up television ads for the first time.

Luke Holland continued trying to carve out a Christian-themed niche in the field of 14 Republicans vying to succeed U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe with a TV ad presented as a Prayer for America.

National Right to Life endorsed OConnor.

Wade Burleson, who is challenging 3rd District Congressman Frank Lucas in the Republican primary, said he will support congressional term limits if elected.

The International Franchise Association, which represents 775,000 franchisees nationwide, endorsed U.S. Sen. James Lankford for re-election.

Another of the 14 Republicans campaigning for Inhofes seat, Dr. Randy Grellner, filed suit in an effort to force his way into a debate sponsored by Griffin Communications. He also complained that Griffin, which owns KOTV Channel 6 in Tulsa and KWTV Channel 9 in Oklahoma City, has refused his advertising.

A Cushing physician, Grellner has advocated COVID-19 treatments such as ivermectin that are not approved by the FDA or the medical profession at large.

Meetings and events: Diversity, Participation and Action will be the subject of a roundtable discussion at Heart of the Party, the Tulsa County Chapter of the Oklahoma Federation of Democratic Women, meeting at 5 p.m. Monday at Oklahoma Joes, 6175 E. 61st St. Panelists will include state Rep. Regina Goodwin, D-Tulsa; City Councilor Vanessa Hall Harper; Oklahoma Democratic Party Chairwoman Alicia Andrews; former Tulsa County Democratic Party Chairwoman Amanda Swope and Union School Board member Joey Reyes.

At least 12 Republican candidates for U.S. Senate are expected for the Republican Womens Club of Tulsa County meeting at 11:30 a.m. June 14 at Tulsa Country Club, 701 N. Union Ave. RSVP to rwctulsa@gmail.com.

The Tulsa County Democratic Partys monthly gathering will be at 7 p.m. June 20 at Baxters Interurban, 717 S. Houston Ave.

Bottom lines: Newly minted Jenks High School alums and soon-to-be Oklahoma State University freshmen Addy Mae Lovett and Paige Robertson are winners of the Republican Womens Club of Tulsa Countys annual scholarship.  Communications Chief Charlie Hannema, a former Tulsa sportscaster, has left the Stitt administration.  The Biden administration announced $82.3 million for water projects in the Indian Health Services Oklahoma City region, with almost all of the money remaining in Oklahoma.

 Randy Krehbiel, Tulsa World

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DHAKA, June 5 (Xinhua) -- A devastating fire broke out at a private container depot in Bangladesh's southeastern Chattogram region Saturday, killing at least three people and injuring more than 100.

SM Rashidul Haque, the Superintendent of Police (SP) of Chattogram district, some 242 km southeast of capital Dhaka, told Xinhua early Sunday that three people died after being admitted to the Chattogram Medical College Hospital with major burns on their bodies.

At least 100 injured were rushed to the hospital on Saturday night.

Most of the victims suffered from mild to heavy burns, and the health condition of several others is also critical.

A fire department official, who declined to be named, said as many as 16 fire-fighting units have been striving to put out the blaze that broke out at about 8:00 p.m. local time at the private BM Container Depot Lt, a Netherlands-Bangladesh joint venture company.

He said the fire broke out in the container yard located in Sitakunda on the outskirts of Bangladesh's premier Chattogram seaport city.

As per preliminary information, the fire incident happened in one of the containers loaded with chemicals in the yard.

The death toll in the devastating inferno is likely to rise, warned the fire official, who has been working throughout the night to douse the devastating blaze. 
The most disappointing thing about tourism in Vietnam is that most travelers visit this amazing country and see it, but rarely get to feel and experience the true heart of this country.

But showing travelers the real Vietnam, and the culture of Ho Chi Minh City, is possible if you step outside the tourist routes and take a moment to explore and immerse yourself into the local culture.

In the 2002 movie, the Quiet American, Michael Caine opened the movie with a monologue that had two lines in it that really tells the story of this great country. They say you come to Vietnam and you learn a lot in a few minutes. But the rest has got to be lived. Such a true statement that was written over 70 years ago and still so true today.

When you visit Vietnam, you need to spend at least a week in Ho Chi Minh City. The history and hidden experiences are everywhere, but you just cant see them as a visitor.

Often, tourists are either not aware of the experiences available, or are just too apprehensive to take the risk because of the language barrier and lack of local knowledge. But the people in Ho Chi Minh City are among the friendliest people in the world, and when you let yourself go just a little, you will find an experience that is often life changing.

Here are a few things you can experience when you visit Ho Chi Minh City:

Suction Cup Massage - It has a history dating back well before modern medicine. The suction cup massage is said to be a cure for all ailments and offers great health benefits, but I am not so sure.

The process involves glass cups and fire. The massage therapist heats the air inside the cup then quickly places it on your back, neck and shoulders. As the air cools it sucks to your skin and draws the blood to the surface. It usually feels rather good but can get uncomfortable towards the end. But it is an amazing experience and you must try it, either on the street or in a spa.

Hair Cut  This one is especially for the boys, but the ladies can also experience it. Hot toc (haircut) in Vietnam is a cheap and unique experience. At a local salon, it is possible to get your haircut, face shaved, ears cleaned (ray tai) and hair washed, all for around US$10.

There are different types of hot toc shops available in Ho Chi Minh City. At the top end are the famous, and expensive city salons but dont go there because its designed to service tourists and the very rich and is not reflective of the local community.

A barber washes a customer's hair at Dong Tay mobile barbershop in District 2, Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Hoang An / Tuoi Tre

The new fashion in Vietnam is the barber shop. A very modern and trendy hair service for men. Then there is the more traditional hot toc where they have a man to cut your hair and ladies to shave your face and give you ray tai and are my choice for quality service.

And if you want the cheapest service there is, the famous street haircut is also a must try when you visit Saigon.

A little planning and advice should be all you need to find a good shop in the suburbs. Most will not speak any English but simply pointing and a translation app will get you through it ok. Make sure you give them a decent tip also. The cheaper your service, the more you should give. They work hard for very low wages.

Try the strange food  There is a range of different foods that you really dont find in the tourist areas that local Vietnamese eat every day. Food like bun dau mam tom (vermicelli served with fried tofu and shrimp paste), hot vit lon (balut) and oc (snail) are just a few of the unique foods available in Ho Chi Minh City.

Hire a tour guide for an afternoon or evening and ask them to take you out to the suburbs like Phu Nhuan District, District 12 or Go Vap District and experience a local restaurant. It is an experience you will hold in your heart forever.

Whilst restaurants and street food in District 1 are good, it is not the same as experiencing food at places where local people eat every day. The secret is to get out of the city center and the further out you go, the better the experience.

An stall selling snail dishes at Vuon Chuoi market in District 3, Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Dong Nguyen / Tuoi Tre News

Hire a bicycle - I am sure most of you have never considered roaming the streets of Saigon on a bicycle. Well, it is rather safe, and it is the best way to explore the suburbs of the city. Bicycles can be easily rented from a number of bicycle shops. A simple Internet search will locate them or ask your hotel or tour guide.

If you do get out on a bike, make sure you have a local sim card in your phone in order to use a maps app. With maps, you can get lost in Ho Chi Minh City and explore, then easily find your way home.

Young residents try out the city's bike sharing service in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, December 4, 2021. Photo: Hoang An / Tuoi Tre

Riding a bicycle around Ho Chi Minh City is surprisingly easy also. Due to the enormous number of motorcycles, the risk of being hit by a car is greatly reduced. Slower moving motorcycles give you a more communal form of transport.

There are drink and food stores every 100m, so you dont need to carry anything more than a drink bottle and a raincoat. But make sure you cover your body from head to toe because the daytime sun is very hot all year round.

Rent a motorbike - If you are out for an adventure, you may want to rent a motorbike to explore Saigon and neighboring provinces.

Commuters travel by motorbikes on Hoang Van Thu Street in Phu Nhuan District, Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Dong Nguyen / Tuoi Tre News

Whilst this is possible, it does come with a few warnings. Firstly, the law does require you to have a Vietnamese license. Also, your travel insurance may not cover you should you have an accident whilst riding a motorcycle without a license.

Its also advisable to have some experience riding a motorbike before riding in Vietnam. For some western tourists, driving on the opposite side of the road can be a real challenge so be sure you are prepared and covered if you plan to rent a motorbike.

Motorbikes can be easily rented from your hotel or local shop in the city for around $10 a day. Renting from your hotel is often the safest choice as they will assist you with everything you need.

With a motorbike you can get out to the neighboring provinces of Dong Nai, Binh Duong and Long An, as well as seeing the outer districts like Thu Duc and Binh Chanh. Just ride, look, take pictures and whenever you want, stop and have a coffee or some food.

Again, a local sim card and a maps app will greatly assist you in getting lost in the suburbs then finding your way back home.

Make a plan to visit locations of interest and you will have a fantastic day in the city and provinces.

Visit a pagoda - With your bicycle or motorbike, make a point of visiting a big pagoda and spend some time taking in the feeling of the spirit of Ho Chi Minh City.

Some of the worlds biggest pagodas are located in this region. A little research and you will find some of the most popular pagodas located within 20 or 30 kilometers of the city center in places like District 9 and District 12. They are a special experience.

Museums  There are a few very popular museums in Ho Chi Minh City that showcase the history and values of Vietnam. However, unknown to many are a variety of small museums that have been preserved by local groups to honor the history and culture of the region.

Many of these small museums are privately run and might be found at the back of a cafe or above a food store. Some research before you travel will uncover some amazing little places that you can visit that are rarely seen by tourists.

A collection of old banknotes at Lua Sai Gon Cafe in Phu Nhuan District, Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Hoang An / Tuoi Tre News

Visit a local market - In every travel guide for Vietnam it says to visit Ben Thanh Market in District 1, but this is very much an international marketplace. True local markets are totally different because they focus on food and servicing the local community for their daily needs.

You wont find a million T-shirts or any souvenirs. What you will find are amazing hard-working people delivering food in a traditional way that may shock some westerners, but its a photographers dream.

Also, most local markets will have food available to eat, so make sure you skip breakfast in order to experience local noodle or rice dishes offered at a local market. Most dishes in local markets range from $1 to $2.

A fresh fish stall at a local wet market in Go Vap District, Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Dong Nguyen / Tuoi Tre News

The greatest disappointment as an expat is seeing people visiting Ho Chi Minh City and seeing them in a bus looking out the window and missing all the local culture. They spend a few days in the city center and take a day trip to some nearby attractions, like Cu Chi Tunnels.

Most of what they see is through a bus window and they never have the opportunity to stop and experience the real Ho Chi Minh City.

Southern Vietnam is now a much more interactive and accepting culture. More people speak English and more local shop owners are welcoming of foreigners who dont speak the local language.

There has never been a better time to live Ho Chi Minh City rather than just seeing it. Plan your experience, get some help and allow enough time to feel the beauty of this amazing region. Live Ho Chi Minh City and the memories of your experience will forever sit in your heart.

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Here are todays leading news stories:

COVID-19 Updates

-- The Ministry of Health documented 881 COVID-19 cases on Saturday, raising the national tally to 10,724,554, with 9,496,407 recoveries and 43,080 deaths.

Society

-- The Politburo has requested the Party Central Committee to consider disciplining Chu Ngoc Anh, chairman of the Hanoi Peoples Committee, and Nguyen Thanh Long, Minister of Health, for their violations.

-- Two workers were killed after a stone quarry collapsed in northern Ha Giang Province late on Friday afternoon, competent authorities confirmed on Saturday.

-- An eight-year-old girl from north-central Quang Binh Province drowned after her mentally ill older brother pushed her into the swimming pool of their school on May 31, local authorities confirmed on Saturday.

-- Police in Ho Chi Minh City have arrested three suspects aged 37 to 46 who are members of a large-scale racket that illegally exploited sand within the maritime area off Can Gio District.

-- The Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee has proposed that the National Assembly consider increasing penalties for usury as the illegal activity can cause a lot of serious problems and consequences for society.

-- Three people were killed and another hospitalized after a truck tipped over and crushed a car along the Ho Chi Minh City Highway in northern Hoa Binh Province on Saturday afternoon.

Sports

-- Vietnam will play South Korea in their second group-stage match at the 2022 AFC U23 Asian Cup in Uzbekistan at 8:00 pm on Sunday (Vietnam time). The match will be aired on FPT Play and VTV6 Channel.

Lifestyle

-- A ceremony was organized in Hanoi on Saturday evening to kick-start the Vietnam International Fashion Tour, which features several fashion shows at famous tourist destinations in the country. These shows will be held in Hoa Binh, Ninh Binh, Quang Ninh, Sa Pa, and Hanoi between June and December.

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An eight-year-old girl from Quang Binh Province, north-central Vietnam drowned after her mentally ill older brother pushed her into the swimming pool of their school earlier this week.

The incident took place at Duc Ninh Elementary School in the namesake commune in Dong Hoi City, Quang Binh Province, the commune Peoples Committee confirmed on Saturday.

On Tuesday afternoon, T.D.S., 15, took his younger sister, eight-year-old Y.N., to the swimming pool of the school.

N. studied first grade, while S. attends fifth grade at Duc Ninh Elementary School.

No one else was at the pool that day as the school year had already concluded.

While swimming at the pool, S. kept pushing his younger sister back into the water even though the girl was trying to exit the pool.

N. eventually became fatigue and drowned.

S. left his sister at the pool, ran home, and told his family members about the incident.

The girl was later rushed to the hospital, but she did not make it.

According to the Duc Ninh Peoples Committee, S. suffers from mental illness, but the family did not have the financial capacity to provide him with proper treatment.

The boy once threw his younger sister into a water pit, the administration continued, adding that local residents were able to arrive in time and save the girl.

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Two part documentary Ithaka: A Fight To Free Julian Assange premieres tomorrow on ABC.

Filmed over two years across the UK, Europe and the US, this follows 76-year-old retired builder, John Shiptons tireless campaign to save his son, Julian Assange.

This 2-part factual series begins on April 11th, 2019, when images of Julian Assange being arrested from the Ecuadorian embassy in London are beamed across the world.

Since that moment Julian has been silenced and into the void have stepped lawyers, advocates, and supporters. Standing unique among them is Julians fiancee, Stella Moris and 76-year-old father, John Shipton  a self-taught builder from Sydney.

Not what he was expecting in his retirement years, John launches into a relentless schedule traversing Europe, engaging in countless press interviews, meeting politicians, and engaging with supporters in street protests, in an effort to help his son.

As the international media descend, Ithaka tracks Julians fiancee Stella Moris, through her journey from Julians secret family to a fierce public advocate for Julian and press freedoms. It also follows John & Stella as they rally members of the public, advocate to politicians and cautiously step into the medias glare  where they are forced to enter the fray and confront perceptions with the actual implications of Julians incarceration.

The film culminates in early 2021, when the UK verdict to extradite Julian to America collides with a pandemic and an explosive US presidential election.

Using Julians extradition hearing as a framework, this intimate story of a familys crisis traces moments from the trial and its aftermath, underscoring how Julians story is emblematic of a decade of uncertainty and volatility.

Production credit: A Shipton House Production. Principal production funding from Screen Australia in association with Film Victoria. Written and Directed by Ben Lawrence. Produced by Gabriel Shipton and Adrian Devant. Executive Producer Roger Savage. Original Music by Brian Eno. ABC Manager of Documentary Stephen Oliver. Head of Factual and Culture Jennifer Collins

8:30pm Tuesday on ABC.

Language.
Updated: Andy Park steps in for Janine Perrett tonight as she isolates with Covid. 9:19pm Monday on ABC.

Have You Been Paying Attention?

Billy the Kid

Celebrity Apprentice

Big Brother

London Kills
Gruen may only have a studio audience of 30  40 people when it returns to ABC this week, but Wil Anderson is happy they are there to restore his power as host.

Gruen, when its at its worst, can be like a Mumbrella conference just advertising people talking about advertising and marketing. It can be a bit boring, he tells TV Tonight.

So the audience keeps the panelists honest. When they become too advertise-y, jargon-y, or advertiser w**kery, the audience are what I use to be able to pull them up on things. To hold them to account.

So the audience are my power. My role on that show is to be essentially the voice of the audience. Not just the audience in the studio, but the voice of the audience watching the show at home.

Last year during COVID lockdowns the show had to stick to a Gruen bubble of production team members in the audience, some laughing at jokes they already knew were coming or vision they had already seen. While he is grateful for a small crowd of public this year, hes also unsure if recordings will ever return to a full house.

We used to record the show in front of 200 people.

We used to record the show in front of 200 people. We havent done that for at least two years. Im not sure that we will ever go back to that, to be fair. I just cant see that that will ever be a reality.

But he is looking forward to Russel Howcroft returning to the panel, having appeared remotely for most of 2021 and unavailable for Gruen Nation due to COVID.

Hopefully with that extra time away, hell be fully recovered and raring to go

Hopefully with that extra time away, hell be fully recovered and raring to go. But I think that we we live in a world where the reality that losing team members to COVID is probably more of a reality now than it has ever been. Even in the times where were in full lockdown, in some ways, we were more safe from losing someone to COVID then than we are now. Its very much out in the wild and people arent taking the same precautions, he suggests.

Im hoping there wont be a time where were as many team members down as we work for the first episode of Gruen Nation. We really had significantly half of our major team not available for that first episode. So my hope would be that for the regular season, the worst is behind us. I think its just sensible these days that you have to have contingencies in place.

He declines to nominate his own understudy.

Theres no person that weve said, Come in and shadow me, he explains.

The truth is in those situations if youre relying on one person, youre just open to the exact same thing. One persons not enough as a back-up, because clearly that other person can also get COVID.

Now 14 seasons long, Gruen remains one of ABCs most popular shows, regularly dissecting, demystifying and sometimes even celebrating the power of advertising. Along with regulars Todd Sampson, Dee Madigan and a parade of seasoned industry execs, the show educates, informs and amuses.

But has it changed the way Australians view advertising? Anderson isnt so presumptive.

No. I think it would be ridiculous to suggest that .thats like the boy at the beach pissing into the ocean thinking that hes making a difference, he explains.

Were 10 episodes x 35 minutes up against a multi billion dollar advertising industry. One ad campaign for one product would have a bigger budget than we have for making 10 episodes of our show every year.

Small moments of stickiness

But I think that theres moments -small moments of stickiness. I tell our team our show is at its best when the next time that you see an ad or a technique being used, you go, I know why theyre doing that.

Now does that actually stop you from being susceptible, being influenced by that ad? Absolutely not, he observes.

In fact, I will tell you that its often the complete opposite. The amount of times, for example, weve done a segment about the evils of Coca Cola marketing, and then immediately afterwards, all you want is a Coca Cola! Because regardless of the fact that weve been talking about these ads and dissecting them, weve also been watching all this marketing for them!

The major hesitation around advertising people

With its bumper ratings and a considered, informed approach to the tricks of advertising and marketing, Gruen has managed to do the seemingly impossible: gain the respect of a very cynical ad industry.

But it wasnt always that way.

I feel like if you went back 14 years ago, the major hesitation around advertising people during the show was that if you gave away the secrets, then the secrets wouldnt work, Anderson recalls.

They discovered very early on that explaining how the magic works did not stop the magic from working. Thats why for 14 years, weve been able to get the top people in the industry on to tell us what theyre doing.

Gruen returns 8pm Wednesday on ABC.
African countries needing to fill the gap created by a lack of Russian and Ukrainian food imports must look outside the typical sphere of economic aid, says UN Assistant Secretary General Ahunna Eziakonwa after a five-day mission to Japan.

Eziakonwa, also the UN Development Programme (UNDP) regional director for Africa, spoke of the unique role government and private sector partners in Japan could play in support of African countries.

Reinforced multilateralism and strong partnerships, including with Japanese government entities and private sector, will be decisive in supporting African countries aptitude to respond to the new economic shocks caused by the war in Ukraine, she said.

Japan has played a strategic role to increase food security on the African continent, and aims to do more, according to the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

Rice revolution

JICA is also concerned about the present situation of the global food crisis. What we can do is enhance food capacities on the African continent by utilizing our strengths, our advantages, and that is rice production  Japan is rice country, says Shinjiro Amameishi, who works on JICAs agricultural development department.

This aid from JICA comes directly under Japans Foreign Ministry. And while the group is not directly involved in diplomatic policies, Amameishi says supporting rice development in Sub-Saharan Africa is key.

Japan has been working on a three-phase program that began in 2008 with the Coalition for African Rice Development (CARD) in order to increase rice production for the domestic market throughout the continent.

JICA, along with a number of bilateral and multilateral donors and research institutions, makes up the consultative group.

CARD started with 23 member countries on the continent and has grown to 32 countries.

It achieved its first goal of doubling rice production from 14 million tons in Sub-Saharan African by 2018, surpassing the target with a yield of 31 million tons in 2018.

Story continues

Tanzania

However, agricultural assistance and technology transfer to the African continent is nothing new for Japan. JICA began giving consistent technical assistance to Tanzanian farmers in Moshi, at the foot of Kilimanjaro, in the 1970s.

Tanzanias rice production ranks third on the African continent, with it also exporting to neighbouring countries. Its yield comes from a combination of irrigated fields as well as lowland and upland rain-fed rice paddies.

JICA plans to create seven training centres that fall under the Tanzanian Ministry of Agriculture that provides training for various climates within the country.

In the past, farmers in Moshi have complained that they have not had support from the government, arguing that tariff-free rice from Asia has flooded the market in the past, ruining some farmers.

Each African country is supposed to make its own strategies and promote domestic rice production, says JICAs Amameishi.

We are not in the position to forcibly influence the government stance, but what we are doing is giving support to the local farmer, he tells RFI.

If they are importing rice from outside, the domestic production should be increased and the quality should be increased.

Senegal

Senegal, one of the most important rice producers on the continent, has worked with JICA and JICA-supported rice development on boosting productivity and rice quality. The Japanese development agency has been working to increase irrigation.

In Senegal rainfall is limited, but there is water coming from rivers in the north, says Amameishi, speaking about the JICA work in hydro-agricultural developments of the Senegal River Valley between Saint Louis, Podor, and Bakel.

JICA believes this area will contribute some 60 percent of total rice production under the Senegalese Agriculture Acceleration Program.

The agency is working to improve and extend rice cultivation techniques, including the double cropping system, which means a farmer can produce rice twice a year; before, they only produced rice once a year.

Farming technology

From his experience living in Tanzania and Senegal, Amameishi has worked with farmers who want to mechanise their work more, but admits there are a few barriers to trade, even though they have had clearance from African countries to bring Japanese farm equipment to the African continent.

From a business aspect, its not so easy. Japanese quality is nicer, but the problem is the price, he says.

Part of the second phase of the CARD program is to create regional hubs for agricultural mechanization.

Most of the machines African farmers use are made in China and India, which is cheaper.

We are trying to attract Japanese companies to come to Africa to start business activities, Amameishi says.

We have to make a distribution network. If in the future the demand is bigger, then they will start, but at present its too small.

More options between Japan and the African continent will be discussed at the eighth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) slated to take place in Tunisia from 27-28 August, 2022.
Gunmen with explosives stormed a Catholic church and opened fire in southwest Nigeria's Ondo state on Sunday, killing "many" worshippers and wounding others, the government and police said.

The violence at St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo town erupted during the morning service in a rare attack in the southwest of Nigeria, where jihadists and criminal gangs operate in other parts of the country.

Pope Francis said in a statement he had learned of the "death of dozens of faithful", many children, during the celebration of the Christian holiday of the Pentecost.

"While the details of the incident are being clarified, Pope Francis prays for the victims and for the country," he added.

No group claimed responsibility for the attack.

The motives and the exact death toll were not immediately clear, but President Muhammadu Buhari condemned the "heinous killing of worshippers".

State police spokeswoman Ibukun Odunlami said the gunmen attacked the church with explosives, leaving an unknown number of worshippers dead.

"It's still premature to say exactly how many people were killed. But many worshippers lost their lives while others were injured in the attack," she told AFP.

A witness, who gave his name as Abayomi, told AFP at least 20 worshippers had died in the attack.

"I was passing through the area when I heard a loud explosion and gunshots inside the church," he said.

He said he saw at least five gunmen on the church premises before he ran away for safety.

Ondo State Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu said in a statement it was a "vile and satanic attack" and appealed to the security forces to track down the assailants.

Gun and bomb attacks are rare in Ondo state and other parts of the southwest, but Nigeria's military is battling a 12-year-old jihadist insurgency in the northeast, gangs in the northwest and separatist agitation in the southeast.

Parts of northwest and north-central Nigeria have been increasingly plagued by heavily armed gangs who raid villages and target communities and schools for mass kidnapping attacks.

joa/pma/imm
Shine out to rebuild career at Glasgow City after battle with addiction and suicide attempts

CLARE Shine knew what she was doing as she closed her eyes and stepped in front of the oncoming car. Fuelled by alcohol, cocaine and self-loathing  none of them in moderate measures  she wanted to end her life at the age of just 23 on a Cork night-time street.

That was in October, 2018, and there was to be a second suicide attempt on a scorching afternoon in Edinburgh less than two years later. That neither succeeded only added to her sense that she was a failure; an addict  or junkie as a disgusted acquaintance once brutally called her  who was a burden on her long-suffering family and friends.

These incidents, and many, many more, are recounted in Shine's searingly honest newly published book, Scoring Goals in the Dark. The tome is a stark reminder that no matter how glossy a person's life may appear to be on the surface, what's happening underneath can be nightmarishly different.

Those close to the talented young sportswoman in her native Cork became all too aware of the dark side, the addictions which, far from taking the edge off her existing mental health issues, fed into them with what could have been fatal consequences.

For those of us who knew her only as Glasgow City's bright young striker the perception was very different. She has had two spells at the club, the first predating the Cork suicide attempt, and the second starting in 2019 when, mistakenly as it transpired, she felt she had got her life and career back on track.

At the end of her first-ever season in 2015, Shine scored all three City goals in a 3-0 Scottish Cup final win against Hibernian. Later that month she came on as a substitute to make her senior debut for the Republic of Ireland against Spain at the Tallaght Stadium in Dublin.

What could go wrong?

There is a picture of the very young looking striker  she was still only 20  which was taken after she had been named player-of-the-match for her 2015 hat-trick. In her right hand is the Scottish Cup, and in the left a bottle of champagne. It was to prove an unerringly prophetic image of her on-field successes and future downfall.

Story continues

That bottle of champagne didn't last very long, she smiles wryly in the course of an interview which is as frank as her book. These days Shine is a recovering alcoholic who, when she isn't training and playing for City, goes into schools and gives talks in her new role as the club's mental health ambassador and project co-ordinator.

None of this seemed possible on October 20, 2018. Shine says she had been plotting her death for over a week to end her misery and stop causing trouble for those she loved most. The portrayal of her younger self is almost impossible to reconcile with my perception of her over a number of years as an exceptionally pleasant, warm and modest young woman.

Growing up where I lived it was football, football, football, she says. It was impossible for our parents to get us in at night because all we wanted to do was play on the green.

I never in a million years thought that by the age of 23 I'd be an alcoholic. A lot happened in a short period of time that needed to be addressed and I wasn't someone who could confront my feelings. I didn't want anyone to know my weaknesses.

It all started to fall apart after her first stint at Glasgow City. She returned to the family home in Ireland, where she had excelled at three sports before deciding on football because it offered better opportunities, to play for her local club, Cork City. At least that was the plan.

There were a lot of times I told my mum I was going to training and wore my kit, but I actually went to the pub, Shine recounts. Then I'd come back a couple of hours later, get changed, and go back out.

It came to a point when it was every day. When the pub shut, I'd find a party somewhere with people I didn't even know. Then I'd wake up and wonder how I managed to get there.

I had no goals, no drive to do anything. It was just going to the pub and drinking as much as I possibly could. I was completely out of control.

The night of her first suicide attempt confirms that was the case. It was like an out of body experience, to be honest, she says. I was starting fights with people who were walking past me.

What was I living for? I wasn't playing football at the time. I was hurting everyone who was close to me to a point where they didn't even want to be around me any more.

I just wanted it to end and I thought that was my only escape. I wanted it to be over as fast as possible. When you're in that situation of being suicidal you don't want to actually die, you just want the thoughts and the feelings and emotions to stop. You want to have a peace of mind and that's where I thought I'd get mine.

Mercifully the driver  whose own life would have been badly impacted  managed to brake and the damage was contained to a short hospital stay. Over the next few months Shine got herself clean, repaired relationships with her ever-supportive family and close friends, and started afresh with Glasgow City at the start of 2019.

That November she was again player-of-the-match in a Scottish Cup final against Hibs at Tynecastle. The Edinburgh side had been ahead for long spells of the match, but Shine equalised to make the score 3-3 before adding a fabulous winning goal on 90 minutes.

All the good work was undone during the pandemic lockdown in 2020. A serious relapse led to the second failed suicide attempt in Edinburgh. This time the outcome was 30 days as a mental health patient in Glasgow's Stobhill Hospital, and it was only when another young patient came into her room and unexpectedly presented her with a football that she started to rediscover her self-worth. She is not yet the player she was, but hopes to regain strength and vitality in the upcoming pre-season.

Last Sunday's Scottish Cup final saw her on the losing side to ten-player Celtic, who won 3-2 after extra time, but while City have failed to win a trophy for the first time since 2003, the club's values are what really matter to Shine. It was her 100thgame for them, she has signed a one year contract extension, and says co-founders Laura Montgomery and Carol Anne Stewart have supported and protected her in a manner that few others would.

I'll be forever grateful to them, the 27-year-old says. Football has given me some unbelievable memories. I've won league titles, cup finals, travelled the world with Ireland at senior and youth level  and it has also given me my life back.

Senior players, including Jo Love, Hayley Lauder, Lee Alexander and former captain Leanne Ross played important roles standing by their team-mate, but Shine says one in particular went above and beyond. Leanne Crichton was always someone I turned to when I was struggling, and she always was the shoulder for me to cry on, she says.

She came to see me in hospital, and was there when I came out. She was enormous for my recovery and I'd like that to be known.

Scott Booth, the former City head coach and Scotland 1998 World Cup striker, also refused to give up on her and passed on tricks of the trade which helped her score the memorable winning goal in 2019. Close friends include the Republic of Ireland captain and Arsenal forward Katie McCabe, who has written the foreword to the book.

That Shine and McCabe were once the two rising meteoric stars of Irish women's football is an indication of how easy it is to take the wrong fork in life's journey. But, Shine, who hopes it might be possible to return to the Irish squad next season, has also now found a much-needed sense of purpose outwith football.

It is one in which she can use her own graphic and destructive experiences to help others struggling with mental health and addiction issues. Clare Shine has found a powerful new voice.

Scoring Goals in the Dark, by Clare Shine with Gareth Maher and published by Pitch Publishing, is now available in bookshops.
Regan Grace St Helens v Toulouse SWpix.jpg Credit: PA Images

St Helens coach Kristian Woolf admitted his side were made to work hard for their 28-14 victory against Super League strugglers Toulouse.

The Saints avenged last months shock defeat in Toulouse with a 28-14 win, stretching their lead at the top of the Super League table.

Speaking after the game, Woolf said: That was a really tough game, just like the first one. We had to work really hard to get anything out of it.

We came to play and I always thought we would get on top but its a tough trip. There were times there where we looked a bit heavy legged but they were good enough to get through.

There were no surprises this time and we knew what to expect. Toulouse are a very good side and they are going to be tough to beat here.

RELEGATION BATTLE: Italy prop Daniel Alvaro backing Toulouse to avoid the drop

Toulouse coach proud of his players

Meanwhile, Toulouse coach Sylvain Houles was proud of the way his side gave the champions a run for their money.

He said: St Helens were much better prepared for us this time and they probably didnt take us as lightly as they did last time.

But we expected that and we prepared well and I thought the boys really dug deep and made St Helens work very hard.

At 14-8 we probably didnt take our chances as well as we could have. If we had scored then it would have been a totally different game and maybe a different result.

But this hasnt affected our confidence in our abilities. If anything, it has proved even more that we are a good side. We are improving all of the time.

Bottom-club Toulouse host Castleford at the Stade Ernest Wallon next Saturday. St Helens take on Hull KR at home.

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WASHINGTON, June 4 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Joe Biden and his wife were briefly evacuated from their beach house on Rehoboth Beach in the northeastern state of Delaware on Saturday after a small plane entered restricted airspace nearby.

"A small private plane entered restricted airspace, all indications are by mistake, and precautionary measures were taken," a White House official told the traveling press pool. "There was no threat to the President or his family."

They "are now back at their residence," according to the White House.

A spokesperson for the U.S. Secret Service said on Saturday afternoon that "a privately owned aircraft entered the restricted airspace over Rehoboth Delaware after mistakenly entering a secured area" shortly before 1:00 p.m. (1700 GMT).

"The aircraft was immediately escorted out of the restricted airspace," the spokesperson said in a statement. "Preliminary investigation reveals the pilot was not on the proper radio channel, was not following the NOTAMS (Notice to Airmen) that had been filed and was not following published flight guidance."

The U.S. Secret Service will be interviewing the pilot, the statement added.

Biden and the U.S. first lady will travel back to the White House from Rehoboth Beach on Sunday. 
Behind a straggly row of eucalyptus trees a monstrous pit has cleaved the countryside in two.

Mountains of slag line the edges of a black hole and the largest trucks you've ever seen remove layers of earth to reach the precious commodity beneath: coal.

We're in Australia's Hunter Valley, a region rich in natural resources.

It's also at the heart of a debate about the country's future climate change policy.

A new Labor government has come to power with a bold ambition to transform Australia's reputation for climate denial and delay and turn it into an international role model.

It's pledging to reduce Australia's greenhouse gas emissions by 43% - a considerably deeper cut than the previous liberal coalition's target of 26-28%.

Labor is also aiming to convert more than 80% of the country's power to renewables by 2030 and spend more than 11bn upgrading the national grid.

We have come to the Hunter Valley to find out how Labor's plans might affect a community which has depended on extracting fossil fuels for generations.

Nathan Dennis works in the mines and so does his father. When we meet him he's just finished four overnight shifts and is grabbing a bacon and egg roll on his way home.

Mr Dennis says he's not overly concerned about the future of mining despite the election results, because coal is one of the country's most important exports.

"I'm pretty sure that we've got about 80 years of coal in the ground so that's going to see out me and my son," he says.

It's not an unusual view in a place like Singleton with its population of 25,000 people.

Mining is the biggest employer: driving trucks in the pit can earn you up to 100,000 a year.

Without the industry, Singleton would be a "ghost town", Mr Dennis says.

"Alot of people wouldn't have the stuff they have without mining," he explains. "We wouldn't have Pizza Hut, McDonald's and seven pubs."

Story continues

In most rural towns there is hardly any traffic at seven in the morning. But peak hour in Singleton could be Sydney.

Mining trucks, semi-trailers and the ubiquitous Australian utes (utility vehicles) are bumper to bumper heading in and out of town as the night shift ends and the day one begins.

It's the ebb and flow of life in a mining town.

But some young people, worn out by long shifts and worried about job security in an ever greener world, are starting to jump ship.

Nathan Berryman grew up in Newcastle, a city with a proud industrial history.

After working as a mine electrician he has switched to the renewables industry, taking a job with electric battery manufacturer Energy Renaissance.

"I remember when I first started, a lot of the tradesmen who were in their fifties and sixties said you don't want to be here when you're our age," he says.

"They know what the industry is like. It's a hard life but it's rewarding and they were concerned about the longevity (of the job) and the locality."

Mr Berryman did not want to end up as a fly-in-fly-out employee, working far from his family and friends in a remote camp in the middle of the desert. So he took his future into his own hands.

His boss Brian Craighead, founder of Energy Renaissance, says his industry is on the cusp of proud change.

"For several years it felt like we were in the wilderness (but) now hope is sweeping through the country," Mr Craighead says.

"We were stymied all the time by politicians denying basic science so now I think the voters have spoken pretty clearly, and they want this."

So as Australia charts a new course, tackling the great challenge of our lifetime, those still working in the resources sector may ask: what is coming?

And at the cafes and pubs in far flung towns there are rumblings of a transition to renewable energy.

And if the winds of change are coming, some may do better by getting ahead of them.
Three local restaurants made Yelps list of the top 100 places to eat in Texas: Revival Eastside Eatery, 704 Elm Ave.; Cafe Homestead, near the Homestead Heritage community off Dry Creek Road; and Taqueria El Crucero, 2505 Robinson Drive, according to a press release.

This list covers all restaurants and a wide range of places to eat  from white tablecloth to food trucks to cafes, the press release says.

The list is based in part on the number and ratings of Yelp reviews for each restaurant between Jan. 1, 2017, and January 31, 2022, Yelp reported.

Cafe Homestead, founded in 1994, is attached to the Homestead Heritage community, where residents practice self-sufficiency in a natural setting that includes raising cattle, making their own breads and cheeses, building furniture, shoeing horses and metalworking. Cafe Homestead serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, with entrees including biscuits and gravy, buttermilk pancakes, chicken dumpling pie, 16-ounce rib-eye steaks, green chili brisket enchiladas, jalapeno cheese grits and avocado toast.

Revival Eastside Eatery has created a following as public and private investment along Elm Avenue gains momentum. Its website calls it a counter-service restaurant offering Texas-sourced and house-made salads, sandwiches and burgers. Beverages include coffee, beer and wine.

Taqueria El Crucero offers a diverse menu with emphasis on Mexican cuisine. Its breakfast burritos attract rave reviews.

Paper Route Bakery in Austin topped the list. Located on East Cesar Chavez Street in Austin, it used its Facebook page to announce its No. 1 ranking. There it describes itself as an artisanal small-batch bakery, taking classic American treats to the next level, and a love letter to your taste buds.

Business After Hours

Pivovar, the Czech-themed restaurant, bakery, brewery and boutique hotel downtown at 320 S. Eighth St., will host Business After Hours from 4 to 6 p.m. June 15. Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce members are invited to attend the casual, friendly and free networking event serving food and drink.

Gas prices

On Tuesday, the day after Memorial Day, the H-E-B at North 19th Street and Park Lake Drive posted $4.03 per gallon for regular unleaded. By Thursday the numbers read $4.39 per gallon at that same H-E-B.

On Friday, prices had gone up another 10 cents, to $4.49 per gallon. Not to pick on H-E-B, the trend is playing out all over Waco and Texas. AAA reported Thursday the $4.34 statewide average set a new record.

Some are making posts online to the effect they are paying more at the pump per gallon than they once earned per hour at work. Some California residents are paying more per gallon than the current federal minimum wage of $7.25 an hour, GasBuddy.com analyst Patrick De Haan reported last week.

Reports showed a station in Los Angeles asking $8.05 per gallon and one in Mendocino asking $9.60 a gallon for regular.

It is bad all over, De Haan said in an email response to questions. Refinery shutdowns due to COVID-19 caused gasoline inventories to fall, and they have not recovered. They are seasonally the lowest since 2014.

He said relief will arrive late summer, and only if major hurricanes keep their distance. De Haan said he is worried the national average for unleaded, at $4.76 on Friday, is two weeks away from hitting $5 a gallon.

Hokkaido Ramen

Activity suggests remodeling at 4300 W. Waco Drive, former home to Pei Wei Asian restaurant that closed about three years ago.

A poster in the window says Hokkaido, and Facebook advertisements are beginning to make the rounds advertising Hokkaido Ramen.

The restaurants website lists a Waco location coming soon, to join several in Montana and Idaho, and one each in Indiana, Illinois and McKinney, Texas.

Keeping cool

A local school district and municipality have secured building permits valued at nearly $4 million to keep temperatures at comfortable levels, according to a newsletter from the local chapter of the Associated General Contractors of America.

Waco will shell out $2 million to replace the heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems at Waco Regional Airport, 7909 Karl May Drive, while the Midway Independent School District will spend $1.7 million removing old and installing new geothermal heat pumps at its high school.

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More than a mile of Spring Valley Road will close for nearly two months starting Monday as crews get rolling on the $15.4 million widening and reconstruction of the Hewitt thoroughfare.

The Texas Department of Transportation will close Spring Valley Road from North Old Temple Road to Sun Valley Boulevard. It will also close the Spring Valley connection to Attaway Road, as well as the flyover connecting Spring Valley to the northbound lanes of Interstate 35.

Spring Valley closure A stretch of Spring Valley Road, shown in red, and a flyover connecting the Hewitt thoroughfare to northbound Interstate 35 are scheduled clos

The closures will allow crews with Big Creek Construction to install drainage across Spring Valley Road and construction detour pavement near the I-35 entrance ramp. The closed sections are expected to reopen next month, but the larger project will continue until 2024.

During the closures, traffic will be detoured to Sun Valley and Hewitt Drive. Local traffic will have access on Spring Valley Road up to Spring Valley Road Church of Christ north of the closure and Patricia Drive south of the closure.

The overall TxDOT project will rebuild 2.2 miles of Spring Valley Road, also known as Farm-to-Market Road 2113, from Sun Valley Boulevard to Hewitt Drive.

The busy road, now two lanes with ditches along the side, will be expanded with a center turn lane and 10-foot-wide shoulders. Crews will replace the ditches with curbs and gutters.

Hewitt officials have said the project is a top priority but that construction will cause some pain for motorists. Of particular concern is Spring Valley Elementary School, which uses Spring Valley Road for pickup and drop-off.

Midway Independent School District is working to offset the impact by building a new driveway behind the school, connecting it to Angel Fire Drive.

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Nine months after Texas enacted a law restricting abortion access across the state, officials at Care Net Pregnancy Center in Waco have their hands full.

The Christian-affiliated pregnancy center expanded its coverage area from McLennan County to seven counties during the COVID-19 pandemic. If the Supreme Court votes soon to overturn Roe v. Wades protection of access to abortion nationwide, Care Net Director Deborah McGregor expects they will be even busier.

If you have less abortions, then youre going to have more women having babies that dont want to or didnt think they were prepared, McGregor said. And that is a real concern for me.

About 26 states are poised to pass laws restricting abortion if Roe is overturned, as expected, said David Cohen, a law professor at Drexel University and author of the book Obstacle Course: The Everyday Struggle to Get an Abortion in America.

We are now probably a month away from a really drastic change in American law, Cohen said.

He said under the new Texas law that advanced as Senate Bill 8, called a heartbeat bill, abortions only dropped by about 10%, citing Texas Policy Evaluation Project data compiled into a chart by The New York Times.

He said the other 90% adapted by traveling out of state or taking abortion pills earlier in their pregnancies.

The reason people were able to travel outside of Texas is because Louisiana, Oklahoma, Kansas, Arkansas and New Mexico all still had abortion services, Cohen said.

If the Roe decision is overturned, abortion will be restricted or eliminated in more states, people will be pushed to travel farther, and providers in the remaining states will be overwhelmed as people compete for open slots, he said.

What happened over the past nine months with Texas is not sustainable when you have more and more states copying Texas or banning abortion altogether, like Oklahoma just did, Cohen said.

Oklahoma recently approved a law similar to Texas.

Abortion restrictions do not prevent abortions, according to a 2009 review from the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Canada. The journal found a woman is just as likely to have an abortion whether the procedure is legally available or restricted in her region.

The review concludes that safe and legal abortions had declined globally, but unsafe, illegal abortion showed no sign of declining.

Women are going to die, said Dr. Sealy Massingill, who travels between Planned Parenthood locations in Fort Worth and Waco. Yeah, hopefully not that many, but its going to happen, and we dont make people risk death for almost anything else.

Like many doctors, he said he is worried medical professionals will be targeted for providing treatment for things like miscarriages and ectopic pregnancies.

Massingill said he has been surprised by how busy Planned Parenthood has been since Senate Bill 8 became law. Before the law, an average week at the Waco clinic entailed between 50 and 60 medical abortions, which use medication to end a pregnancy, and 25 surgical abortions. That number has fallen to about 50 per week, he said.

Senate Bill 8 only allows for abortion before any cardiac activity from the fetal pole, a 1- to 2-millimeter embryo, is visible on an ultrasound, which means any time between about five and seven weeks.

Its not a heartbeat, Massingill said. Its what they wanted it to be, but thats not what youre seeing on the ultrasound. Youre seeing motion in the fetal pole that will eventually be an organ.

Whether it will show up depends on factors like bladder fullness as much as development.

The bill doesnt make any medical sense, because it wasnt written by physicians, he said.

Cohen said he is concerned that organizations and private citizens who transport or otherwise help someone obtain a legal abortion could face criminal charges in states where it becomes illegal.

Theyre going to want to stop as many abortions as they can, so they are going to start targeting travel, Cohen said.

He said everyone who might need an abortion in the future should plan ahead. He said everyone should familiarize themselves with their state laws, make emergency plans ahead of time with people they trust and read up on self-managed, FDA-approved abortion pills at plancpills.org.

He also recommended learning about digital privacy and how to search abortion-related topics without leaving a trail.

Its scary, Cohen said.

Massingill said self-managed abortion is relatively safe, but even with pills widely available, he is worried about illegitimate markets.

If they just get sugar pills they wont be hurt too badly except losing money, but will they get something toxic? he said. Its going to be a wild west.

McGregor said the pregnancy center has been serving a different clientele since Senate Bill 8 went into effect: women dead-set on an abortion when they walk in the door who want to confirm they can still get one legally, and women who used contraception during sex, but want to make sure they definitely are not pregnant.

In May, 99 women who came to the center as at risk for abortion compared to 84 in the same month last year. Of those 99, 22 already had appointments and plans for abortions compared to 12 out of 84 the previous year.

McGregor said now, women come in for tests and an ultrasound before they have missed their first period.

Typically we would have waited a few weeks to make sure we could see a heartbeat on the ultrasound, McGregor said. Of course theyre coming in not wanting to see a heartbeat on the ultrasound if theyre actually pregnant and want an abortion.

She said most people in this category are nervous. A few are furious.

You might get two or three, but you remember them, she said.

McGregor said ideally, pregnancy centers like hers would be as common as post offices, but that is not the reality. Most centers are staffed by volunteers and have limited hours.

There needs to be more pregnancy centers and it needs to be yesterday, she said. And of course theres going to need to be more state funding and all of that to help provide the services as well.

John Pisciotta, a former Baylor University economics professor turned anti-abortion activist, said he is not ready to count his chickens before they hatch, and the Supreme Courts decision will change very little for his organization, Pro-Life Waco.

We are out proclaiming that abortion is a really bad thing, a really harmful thing, and how to think about it, Pisciotta said. Were up on the overpass, well be at the corner of Valley Mills and Waco Drive. We protest at Bank of America.

He said his larger goal is to alter the countrys culture, and he believes eliminating abortion would reduce promiscuous behavior.

Ive stated and I keep on stating it, pro-life culture cannot be built on the sexual revolution, he said. And what has happened is that the morality espoused by Playboy is the dominant morality in our society, where sex is a recreational activity and pregnancy is some kind of error.

He said he believes contraception is part of that culture, but while he personally opposes its use he does not support laws banning contraception.

The more we leave things to people to decide and maybe disagree, were probably a healthier culture than if were trying to move that culture dramatically one way or another by force, Pisciotta said.

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BEIRUT, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Lebanese President Michel Aoun on Sunday warned that any drilling activities by Israel in the territorial disputed area with Lebanon "constitute a provocation and a hostile act."

In a statement released by Lebanon's Presidency, Aoun said that Lebanon has already sent a letter to the UN Security Council, warning that any drilling activities by Israel in disputed areas may pose threat to international peace and security.

Aoun added that talks to demarcate maritime borders between the two countries had not been completed yet.

Aoun's remarks came after an Energean Power ship entered the Karish oil field, a disputed area between Lebanon and Israel, to start oil and gas exploration.

Israel had initially claimed the Karish North field as its own property, but later Lebanon expanded its claim in territorial waters, which would include at least part of the oil field.

This has resulted in the halting of indirect negotiations for the demarcation of the maritime borders between the two countries. 
Almost 79 years after being lost in combat in Europe, a heroic World War II pilot was finally buried with his relatives Saturday in West.

The nieces and nephews of 1st Lt. Louis Girard, together with his last living sibling as well as friends and loved ones of their families, gathered in West on Saturday to lay his remains to rest.

Today is not a day of sadness, Louis Girards niece, Lisa Smith, said. Thats why I didnt wear black. Smith, her sister and her mother all wore floral patterns to the memorial service at Aderhold Funeral Home and the burial at St. Marys Catholic Cemetery. Smiths mother, Helen Pomykal, is Louis Girards last surviving sibling.

In March, the Defense Prisoner of War/Missing in Action Accounting Agency made a positive identification of Louis Girards remains among those recovered from burial of the unknowns in Allied Forces cemeteries from World War II in Europe. Girards remains were returned to the family last month, and they held his services Saturday.

Its a good thing this came when it did, Smith said, so that my mother (who is 88) could appreciate it.

Louis Girards nephew, Chris Girard, gave a eulogy during the funeral home service. Chris Girard described his uncle as a family legend about whom he learned from family stories and a photo in his grandmothers living room. Louis Girards family also had his extensive diaries and detailed letters he wrote back to family members including his youngest sister, Pomykal.

(We) grew up hearing stories of Uncle Louis, and his last bombing mission: Operation Tidal Wave, Chris Girard said.

Louis Girard left his studies at Texas A&M College in February 1942, when Pomykal was 8, to join the war effort, Chris Girard said.

He wanted to fly and he wanted to fight Hitler, Chris Girard said. The U. S. Army Air Forces did not accept Louis Girard for pilot training when he went to enlist at the age of 19, his nephew said. So, he went to Canada and joined the Royal Canadian Air Force.

Military records show Louis Girard served as a night fighter pilot with the Royal Canadian Air Force in England and later transferred to the U. S. Army Air Forces as a co-pilot for B-24 Liberator bombers, operating out of North Africa. His awards include the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Purple Heart and the Air Medal.

More than 180 bombers, including Louis Girards, flew in a daylight raid against Axis oil refineries in Romania on August 1, 1943, Chris Girard said. More than 50, including his uncles, did not return.

Uncle Louis loved flying, Chris Girard said. He not only flew his military aircraft, but other (civilian) airplanes around the (English) countryside.

He said his uncle also loved his family, often writing letters back home to offer advice, especially to his youngest sister, Pomykal.

Our family needed some joy, Smith said. And getting my Uncle Louis back, really brought (joy), especially to my mother.

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Drug deaths are skyrocketing in America as fentanyl and other synthetic opioids flood communities, and the crisis is not limited to giant cities or impoverished corners of Appalachia.

It is here in Waco and McLennan County.

The United States saw 108,000 overdose deaths in 2021, up 15% over 2020, which in turn saw a 30% increase over 2019, according to preliminary numbers released May 11 by the U. S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Driving the epidemic of drug deaths are opioids, especially synthetic ones such as fentanyl that can be thousands of times stronger than opium or heroin and are being sneaked into other drugs in deadly doses, experts say. In fact, in narcotics seized and tested by authorities last year, fentanyl was mixed with nearly every recreational drug. Furthermore, the Cenikor Foundation addiction treatment facility in Waco reports that detox from fentanyl is more difficult for clients than for natural opioids, a spokesperson said.

The Cenikor Foundation provides a spectrum of treatment and support for recovering addicts beginning with medically supervised detoxification, continuing with a variety of inpatient and outpatient treatments.

People in the county are calling the poison control centers for opioid and synthetic opioid overdose remedies and visiting emergency medicine departments for opioid overdoses as well.

Since last year, emergency medical personnel or police officers have been administering an opioid overdose reversal medicine, naloxone hydrochloride, to save a life about four times per week. The remedy is available without prescription at nearly every commercial pharmacy and widely covered by health insurance plans.

Brand names for naloxone include Narcan and Kloxxado, which are both available in nasal sprays.

Drug addiction affects people across all demographic types, said Lindsay Smith, Cenikor Foundations acting facility manager in Waco.

It doesnt matter how much education they have or dont have, Smith said. It doesnt matter how much money they have or dont have. It doesnt matter their religion or skin color. People of all types can be be addicts.

People in McLennan County are dying of drug overdoses, with 22 such deaths noted by the Texas Department of State Health Services in 2019. Statewide the number of people dying of opioids increased by 32.8% in 2021, the most recent year for which data is available, according to Cenikor.

When I was in the rave scene, I saw people overdose and even die from drugs all the time, former drug dealer and user Joe Stallo said. Stallo is a reformed drug dealer and recovering addict, who began a lasting recovery through the Mercy House program at Antioch Community Church about seven years ago.

Stallos story

Before entering Mercy House, Stallo said had been a heroin addict for many years, although he said his drug of choice would have been LSD.

He said that his heroin years, after the years in the rave scene, were a very dark time for him, living in a continual loop of rehab, followed by smoking marijuana and sliding back into heroin addiction.

After completing the program at Mercy House and over a year of sobriety, Stallo began to work, found a wife and married her in 2018. He is also studying for a business degree. He is still sober.

Stallo worked for Cenikor Foundation as a recovery tech in their Waco inpatient alcohol and drug treatment facility around 2017 and 2018. He most recently works with re:generation recovery through Harris Creek Baptist Church and Antioch Community Church.

Stallo works closely with addicts seeking to overcome their addictions and live a clean and sober life.

Before he went to Mercy House, though, he used fentanyl to get high.

The threat of fentanyl

A friend of mine was selling his mothers (prescription fentanyl) pain patches from her cancer treatment, Stallo said. Thats how I first used fentanyl to get high.

In his dealing days, his suppliers could get fentanyl and he would sell it.

Its way more potent than other drugs like heroin, opium and cocaine, Stallo said.

Very small amounts of fentanyl will produce effects comparable to typical doses of heroin and opium, he said.

Dr. Ryan Morrissey, a Central Texas emergency medicine physician with Baylor Scott & White Health and a consulting physician with poison control centers in the area, has seen patients in the ER with overdose on opioids, including fentanyl.

Fentanyl, used in the same dose size as other opioids and other narcotics, will almost certainly cause an overdose, and can often be lethal, Morrissey said.

Morrissey said doctors prescribe fentanyl and use it in hospitals as a pain reliever in microgram doses, thousands of times smaller than the doses of other pain medications, including other opioid pain medications. Pain medications including aspirin and Tylenol are given in doses of a few hundred milligrams. Morphine, OxyContin and opioid pain medications are also given in doses measured in milligrams or milliliters, 1000s of times larger than those at which fentanyl might be safe.

Most of the time when we see someone in the ER who has overdosed on opioids, we cant tell whether theyre on a regular opioid or fentanyl, Morrissey said.

He said that someone smoking opium looks the same as someone who gets high with OxyContin or fentanyl, with sings including small pupils, slow breathing rate, constipation and sleepiness.

Fentanyl is often a contaminant, or hidden ingredient, in other narcotics, Morrissey said. Often it wont be known in the heat of the moment.

He said that according to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, fentanyl may be pressed into pills and sold fraudulently as OxyContin, or added to other drugs.

In 2021, fentanyl was found in nearly every recreational narcotic in the U. S., according to the U. S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Smith said.

Smith, the Cenikor manager, said the DEA found 42% of pills tested for fentanyl contained at least 2 milligrams of fentanyl.

Overdose and reversal

Two milligrams of fentanyl is considered a potentially lethal dose, Smith said.

Overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids, primarily illicitly manufactured fentanyl, rose 55.6%, nationwide last year, she said.

The threat of overdose may not be a deterrent to the addict though, according to Stallo.

When addicts hear someone died of an overdose, they think he (or she) just couldnt handle it, Stallo said. (Addicts) will want to know what the drug was they overdosed on and where they got it.

Stallo said addicts will want to get high with the drug that caused someone they knew to experience and overdose.

So, people who know someone who uses drugs recreationally would be advised to keep some naloxone nasal spray handy, Morrissey said.

If you know someone who uses drugs and you see them sleepy and not breathing as well as they should, call 911 and give them naloxone, Morrissey said.

Measuring the opioid addiction and overdose problem

Besides the 4 weekly uses of opioid overdose reversal medications by paramedics and police so far this year, there are other ways to measure the problem of addiction and overdoses.

One way to measure the problem is to look at the growing number of people seeking recovery and treatment. Another, handled by the Texas Department of State Health Services, counts opioid-related visits to emergency rooms, opioid-related calls to poison control centers, and opioid-related deaths.

Smith said the Cenikor Foundation facility in Waco saw more than 900 patients all year last year. As of this past week, she said her teams have treated over 860 patients. Smith said she believes the number of addicts in the state is growing.

Waco Family Medicine has a substance-abuse disorder treatment program within its overall behavioral health programs. Waco Family Medicine favors medication-assisted treatment for people diagnosed with opioid use disorder but also provides peer-support, 12-step groups and individual counseling.

Addiction medicine clinicians at Waco Family Medicine, physician Dr. Zach Sartor and psychologist Lance Kelley, said they have about 100 patients in their program in mid-May and that their number of patients had steadily increased over the 3 years they have had the program in operation.

However, neither clinician would say whether the increasing number of patients is a result of more people seeking relief and recovery or because of a growing number of addicts.

Measuring by opioid related emergency room visits at hospitals and other emergency department reports, the state health department has tallied and posted data through 2020. In McLennan County, emergency departments reported 100 opioid related visits in 2017, 95 in 2018, 85 in 2019, and 64 in 2020.

In McLennan County, the state health department tallied 39 opioid-related poison control center calls in 2017, 50 calls in 2018, 52 calls in 2019, 39 calls in 2020 and 46 calls in 2021, the most recent year available.

Naloxone was administered by area emergency medical responders and police 199 times to prevent a death from opioid overdose last year, an average of 3.8 overdose remedies per week last year and 4.1 per week so far this year, officials said.

The opioid drug overdose remedy medicine naloxone has been used in McLennan County by American Medical Response crews 169 times in 2021 and 65 times in 2022 through May 18, according to an AMR spokesperson. All their ambulance crews carry the overdose remedy and they are trained in its use.

All Waco Police Department and McLennan County Sheriffs Office patrol vehicles also carry the drug overdose remedy and their personnel have been trained to use it, their spokespeople said.

Waco Police spokesperson Cierra Shipley estimated that officers administered the overdose remedy about 30 times in the past year. Sheriffs personnel had not used it according to Chief Deputy David Kilcrease.

Because of the way death certificates are processed in Texas, causes of death are limited to natural, homicide, suicide, accidental or unknown. The fact a drug overdose killed someone is usually far down in the file, according a McLennan County justice of the peace.

Based on data the state health department shared with the Waco-McLennan County Public Health District between 2011 and 2016, the number of deaths caused by opioids increased from eight in 2011 to 24 in 2016, said Vaidehi Shah, senior epidemiologist for the health district.

In McLennan County, state health department data available online show 18 accidental overdose deaths in 2017, 29 in 2018, and 22 in 2019, the latest year available.

Statewide deaths from opioid overdoses increased by 32.8% in 2021, according to a Cenikor spokesperson.

Details on causes of death tend to run two to three years behind for state- or county-level statistics.







Counting overdose deaths

Judge Fernando Villarreal, McLennan County Justice of the Peace for Precinct 5, reported that in his precinct last year, he conducted 49 death inquests and only one was drug related. Those drugs were heroin, methamphetamine and diazepam, he said. He said he has not conducted a death inquest that found drugs this year.

Justices of the peace conduct death inquests in only a portion of deaths, Villarreal said.

If someone dies under a doctors care, or the police are involved, those cases dont come to (justices of the peace), he said. We see all the other deaths.

Judge David Pareya, Justice of the Peace in Precinct 3, said that only five causes of death may be recorded on a Texas death certificate: homicide, suicide, natural, accidental or unknown. None of those causes of death reflect drugs or overdoses.

To find out if drugs were a contributing factor to someones death, for someone who was not found surrounded by drug paraphernalia, an autopsy and a toxicology report would have to be ordered, Pareya said. And that information is far down in the case file.

Tracking the information down into toxicology reports, is part of the reason for the state health department to maintain the online count of opioid incidents and deaths and for having the information sharing agreement Shah mentioned.

Finding recovery

For drug users who have decided to find recovery, resources are available in Waco and McLennan County.

Three Narcotics Anonymous groups that provide peer support based on a 12 step process may be found by an online search for narcotics anonymous in Waco. Re:generation, available in the faith based community, provides 12-step program with a Biblical basis and underpinning.

Cenikor provides these types of support but starts with detoxification and inpatient treatment.

Waco Family Medicines approach under Sartor and Kelley emphasizes medication-assisted treatment, with physician-prescribed medication called buprenorphine. Buprenorphine reduces the cravings that opioid addicts experience driving them to their drug of choice, Sartor said.

Waco Family Medicine also includes harm reduction as part of a holistic approach to addictions or substance-abuse disorders. Harm reduction attempts to curb the spread of diseases, infections, overdoses and other consequences of using recreational drugs until the patient is ready for recovery, ready to find a way to live without narcotics.

Kelley said that he and Sartor and others at Waco Family Medicine will tailor an approach to help a client accomplish their goals whether those goals are living completely drug-free, curbing use or reducing harm.

Also noteworthy, McLennan County will receive a portion of opioid settlement money, which could be used for treatment. County Administrator Dustin Chapman said in a Wednesday email that this money has not been funded to the county yet. Nor have the members of the commissioners court begun to formulate a plan for how to spend it.

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Community engagement meeting

MGT Consulting Group will have a virtual community engagement meeting at 10 a.m. Tuesday to present the city of Wacos Disparity Study project overview and gather comments from business owners on their experiences doing business, or attempting to do business, with the city. The meeting is open to the public and all are invited.

For more information, email cityofwacodisparitystudy@mgtconsulting.com or visit cityofwaco-txdisparitystudy.com to sign up for the meeting.

Waco Rotary Club

Dale McCall, dean of the Greater Waco Advanced Manufacturing Academy, will speak about the academy during a Waco Rotary Club meeting at noon Tuesday the Baylor Club at McLane Stadium, 1001 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. The meeting is free, but reservations are required at wacorotary@gmail.com.

Greater Bible Way VBS

Greater Bible Way Church, 1901 Herring Ave., will host Vacation Bible School from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Friday.

For more information, call 254-379-6031.

East Side Turn Row Meeting

The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service will have a free East Side Turn Row Meeting with registration starting at 8 a.m. Friday off Crunk Road, near Asa in southeastern McLennan County.

Cropping system specialist Ronald Schnell will provide an update on the current growing season, primarily on corn, grain sorghum and cotton. Integrated pest management agent Tyler Mays will discuss field conditions pertaining to his scouting report on insect and disease. John Robinson will give a cotton and feed grains market update.

Participants should RSVP by Tuesday by calling 254-757-5180 or emailing candace.chapman@ag.tamu.edu.

Submit printed or typed items to Briefly, P.O. Box 2588, Waco, 76702-2588; or email goingson@wacotrib.com.
CEDAR FALLS  Supervisors in the Public Safety Department are encouraged to start a file at the beginning of each year.

Thats been an important document as it came time for supervisors to recognize their colleagues for the great acts of service they perform every day often in the heat of the moment.

Or else, some of these little things get missed, said Acting Police Chief Mark Howard in an interview.

Howard, a captain before his interim appointment to chief, recommended officer Christian Baumgartner, a rookie, be recognized with an Award of Excellence.

Baumgartner was involved with someone who held a knife in the middle of a bridge, was threatening to harm himself, and refused to negotiate.

When authorized, Baumgartner shot him in the thigh with less lethal ammunition.

That allowed that situation to come to an end with nobody being hurt.  For somebody new to take that initiative in his first year of actually being an officer, it takes an incredible amount of courage and it just shows the talent of the people that are hired here, said Howard.

In his letter recommending him for the award, Howard also noted Baumgartner, as a new officer, continued to challenge himself to learn his responsibilities.

But Baumgartner wasn't the only one to receive an award.

On Thursday morning, a number of public servants were recognized inside the departments apparatus bay with families, friends and dignitaries in attendance. They included:

Adam HancockPolice Officer of the Year

Lucas SchmidtFirefighter of the Year

Gavin CarmanRJ Voss Police Supervisor of the Year

Todd Taylor  Fire Officer of the Year

Cory Hines  Reserve Police Officer of the Year

Awards of Excellence winners in addition to Baumgartner were Ryan Bellis, Matt Krueger, Carson Barron, Kendall Schwan, Brandon Madsen, Kyle Manternach and Jodi Harn.

Ashley Luck, a new police officer, recited the oath of office and had her badge pinned on during the event. Carson Jensen also received the Top Cadet Award from the Hawkeye Community College Police Academy.

Were very proud of every single person that works here, said Fire Chief John Bostwick in an interview. Weve got the brightest and the best working for the city of Cedar Falls. If we were looking for a common theme, Id say theyre all very hard working and dedicated, and if we look at Todd Taylor, as an example, we see people that enjoy their work every day and that come to work happy.

Acting Police Captain Brooke Heuer was the master of ceremonies. Captain Jeff Sitzmann assisted Mayor Rob Green in handing out the awards. Green also swore in Luck, and read aloud the law enforcement code of ethics, at the conclusion of the event, for those in the room not familiar with it.

The event backdrop included a large American flag, a fire truck and a patrol car.

Jesup Boy Scouts celebrate one-of-a-kind monument to Eagle projects, scouting icons Hayden Miller, 18, and Jacob Leach, 16, were the 57th and 58th Eagle Scouts to have a plaque on Jesup's 'Wall of Eagle.'

Here are their stories:

Investigator Hancock

Hancock was described as being very involved in the training of new officers, and had become one of the departments top field training officers.

He takes a lot of pride in working with our newest officers, Howard wrote when recommending him for the Police Officer of the Year award. On several occasions I have seen Adam helping probationary officers that are not assigned to him.

The county attorneys office is very appreciative of his excellent case work, follow-ups and reports, and pointed out how he has a lot of compassion for their victims who he works with, which helps the office in getting cooperation from these victims.

Hancock was certified as a Drug Recognition Expert, and has already utilized the training to assist other officers when dealing with people operating while intoxicated.

Officer Hancock continues to improve his skills as an officer, while demonstrating he has already become one of the most dedicated officers we have, said Howard.

His willingness to assist our newest officers and to continue to become a more knowledgeable officer are other reasons why Howard recommended he be recognized.

Officer Schmidt

Capt. Tim Smith recommended Schmidt be named the Firefighter of the Year award because of his respected knowledge, authority, and leadership. He also said Schmidts hard work, dedication and performance go above and beyond.

He comes to work every day with one goal in mind, and thats to do his job to the best of his ability and to teach others, Smith said. He always wants to learn new skills, and pass his knowledge on to those around him. If he has concerns about an individuals level of knowledge or training, he will relay this information to his supervisor or take the co-worker under his wing.

In addition, Schmidt, who comes from a family of firefighters, had compiled an extensive resume of both policing and firefighting before being hired by the city of Cedar Falls in 2019, Smith noted.

On most work days, PSO Schmidt is assigned as the acting officer on the engine, he pointed out.

Lt. Carman

Howard nominated Carman for the Police Supervisor of the Year award. He immediately had the officers respect and was an effective leader upon getting appointed to be an acting lieutenant of one of the squads. He later was promoted to be a permanent lieutenant.

During the year as his captain, I was able to depend on Lt. Carman for most situations, Howard said. During several serious incidents in 2021, Lt. Carman excelled as a leader making decisions and taking appropriate actions for these calls. The officers on second shift trusted and respected Lt. Carman because of the knowledge and leadership he demonstrated on numerous incidents.

Capt. Taylor

Capt. John Zolondek highlighted a number of Taylors impressive qualities when recommending he be given the Fire Officer of the Year award. He is a self-motivator and is willing to help out anyway he can.

Taylor also was described as being willing to help out anybody with any assignment and consistently taking on additional duties. He is known as one of the main instructors of many topics and has been a go-to guy for anything needed at the fire department.

He has dedicated time off to help train and respond to calls, said Zolondek. There have been numerous calls I have responded to with him. His conduct and behavior is something others should strive for. He stays calm and collected during stressful events. I know when I ask him to do something it will get done and it will get done well.

Reserve Officer Hines

Heuer and Zolondek pointed out, among a number of positive qualities, how Hines, their choice for the Reserve Police Officer of the Year award, is self-motivated and always shows up prepared to train.

He is always ready to assist and help out in any way he can, even on short notice, they wrote. He is always willing to help and support the newer reserves. He has received numerous compliments and accolades from various supervisors on all shifts. He always has a positive attitude and conducts himself professionally no matter what his assignment is.

Lt. Krueger

Krueger, an Award of Excellence recipient, was nominated by Lt. Shea McNamara for showing himself to be a reliable pillar of his assigned shift, and being a very dependable and valuable member of the Fire Division.

He was recognized for using his personal time to set up the aerial (truck) to represent the department and celebrate the homecoming of soldiers with the Iowa National Guard, in addition to finding ways to best hone and perfect the department operations and activities.

Krueger also was touted for his reserved demeanor, most on display during a building collapse victim recovery, active fire ground extinguishment and lifesaving CPR efforts. In addition, that calmness, and professional demeanor, are evident through his exemplary customer service.

Acting Lt. Barron

Barron was nominated for an Award of Excellence by Sitzmann for his work and skills demonstrated during some major investigations, including one complicated sexual assault case, in which years of abuse were uncovered.

Another was a burglary, in which there were three armed assailants that he eventually helped charg with the crime.

In addition, his great work -- during an investigation into an attempted robbery at a liquor store and a fast food restaurant -- led to the identification of the suspects vehicle, and the weapon used in the act. His leadership in the investigation of a kidnapping case also was highlighted by Sitzmann.

Investigator Schwan

Schwan was nominated for an Award of Excellence by Sitzmann for his outstanding work on many high profile cases, involving numerous sexual assaults, a kidnapping, an armed robbery and shooting, and another shooting incident.

He was not present Thursday to receive the award because of currently being deployed.

Sitzmann points out that the two main areas deserving recognition involved numerous residential and car burglaries, in addition to a string of catalytic converters thefts.

The work on the former included nearly 20 search warrants for electronic and several on properties, in addition to hours obtaining video, interviewing witnesses, victims and suspects. In the end, three people were arrested and charged with up to 20 related crimes.

His investigation into the latter led to numerous people being arrested for allegedly being responsible for hundreds of thousands of dollars in damage and repair bills for Black Hawk County residents.

The number of stolen catalytic converters decreased significantly after Investigator Schwan got involved, Sitzmann wrote.

Cedar Falls council to consider bond sales, Center Street plans Monday The Center Street improvements, spanning from Clair Street to West Lone Tree Road, include new curb, sidewalks, ADA compliant pedestrian ramps, biocells, and landscaping.

Investigator Madsen

Howard recommended Madsen for an Award of Excellence because of his immediate impact upon being appointed an acting lieutenant.

He applied himself immediately to this opportunity to lead. He read through the Cedar Falls Police Department policies and reviewed the responsibilities of shift supervisors, said Howard. He asked lots of questions as he took on this role to ensure he was meeting my expectations of a supervisor.

He highlighted how Madsen already was a leader before taking on the new role and took the role of mentoring officers on shift seriously, and points out, now as the captain of the shift, that Madsen will be one of the future leaders of this agency.

Two Republicans compete Tuesday to be on the ballot for Iowa House District 76 Tony Chavez, an independent contractor from Cedar Falls, and farmer Derek Wulf of Hudson will face off Tuesday for a spot on the ballot in the Nov. 8 general election.

Officer Manternach

Capt. Kelli Yates describes Manternach, an Award of Excellence honoree, as well-respected and often a go-to person for junior and senior members of the department. His easy going, non-judgmental personality makes him very approachable.

When dealing with medical calls, as an EMT, Yates said he shows true compassion and is able to perform well under pressure, communicate and remain calm, kind and professional.

Yates pointed out that Manternach played an important role when the Mobile Breathing Apparatus Trailer (MOBAT) was delivered to the Public Safety Building because he was all in when it came time to operate it after 11 p.m. and was willing to stay up to ensure that his fellows PSOs had the opportunity to experience this very valuable training.

He also did an excellent job of working with PSOs from the Police Division, and diligently assisted them through the training evolutions, Yates said.

Three Republicans to battle it out in Tuesday's primary in hopes of becoming Rep of Iowa District 58 One is a lawyer and businessman. Another is a retired school band director and technology coordinator. The third retired after a career largely in business management and finances.

Records Clerk Harn

Sitzmann also nominated Harn, who was absent, for an Award of Excellence. She was described as a city employee -- with no police records experience and nearly all portions of the job being new to her  who immediately impressed when she began her tenure inside the Public Safety Building.

She quickly learned operations and has become the go-to person for all records requests and inquiries for officers, clerks of court and county attorneys, said Sitzmann.

He highlighted her accomplishment of ensuring all cases and their paperwork were accounted for and scanned into the system, all while keeping up with her responsibilities in payroll. As a community service officer, shes also tasked with answering the phones, taking fingerprints and assisting officers with radio communication.

Her most impressive work though was in handling the annual incident-based reporting data, Sitzmann said.

It was learned that a lot of catching up needed to be done on this report and Jodi only had one week to do a months worth of work, he said. Jodi communicated with state and federal officials to learn the software and how to complete the report. Not only was the due date approaching for the annual report, it had to be completed with an error rate of less than three percent. This required many hours of sifting through individual cases and making adjustments to comply with state and federal requirements.

Columbus Class of 1966 graduates encourage others to stand up to gun violence Some of their ideas: Get rid of bump stocks. Increase the legal age to at least 21 years old. Implement Red Flag laws. Bring about background checks.

Officer Bellis

Sitzmann also recommended Bellis for an Award of Excellence as a leader and teacher while assigned to the investigative unit and doing great police work on many different cases.

One, involving a homicide, showcased his relentless work, like in identifying witnesses, suspects and all the vehicles associated with those involved in the drive. Bellis also secured video evidence, which turned out to be critical in this investigation, and eventually statements that led to three people being arrested.

He also was able to track down the gun used in the murder.

Throughout the investigation, Bellis also stayed in contact with the victims family to let them know the status of the investigation and to offer support, Sitzmann said.

Officer Jensen

Jensen graduated from the Hawkeye Community College Police Academy and received the Top Cadet Award for the highest average scores in shooting, academics and physical fitness.

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WATERLOO  The Waterloo Public Library has announced activities happening the week of June 6-11:

Monday and Tuesday, 9 a.m.-noon, Youth Summer Library Program outdoor registration on West Third Street between the library parking lot and SingleSpeed Brewing Co., weather permitting. Activities are planned including sidewalk chalk, bubbles, games and more. Children who register will receive one free book when they. Or register online at https://tinyurl.com/YouthSLP.

Tuesday, 10 a.m.-11 a.m., STEM Activities by AmeriCorps for second- to fourth-graders in Meeting Room AB, part of the Youth Summer Library Program.

Thursday, 5-6:30 p.m., Cookie Bar Crawl in the conference room; bring your favorite cookie bar to share and discuss recommendations for recipe books, swap favorite summer food recipes. Registration is required and participation is limited to 10 adults. Register online at waterloopubliclibrary.org/event/cookie-bar-crawl.

Thursday, 5-6:30 p.m., Teen Summer Kickoff with music, water blasters (weather permitting), games, food and other fun in the Waterloo Public Library Parking Lot.

Saturday, 10-11 a.m., Villisca Axe Murders with Ed Epperly in Meeting Room AB, join in a chilling discussion as part of the Adult Summer Library Program on the infamous 1912 murder of a family in this Iowa town. Epperly, a recently retired Luther College education professor, will share his decades-long research and answer questions. He will also talk about his book Fiend Incarnate: Villisca Axe Murders of 1912, copies of which will available for purchase at a cost of $25 in cash or check.

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DES MOINES  Both the killer and one of his victims in the Ames shooting last week that claimed three lives were members of the Iowa National Guard.

Spc. Eden M. Montang, who joined the Iowa Army National Guard in August 2019, was one of the two victims killed in the deadly shooting at Cornerstone Church on Thursday. Montang served as a mortuary affairs specialist with Detachment 1, Headquarters Support Company, 248th Aviation Support Battalion in Boone.

The Story County Sheriff identified the shooter as Sgt. Johnathan L. Whitlatch, also a member of the Iowa Army National Guard. Whitlatch joined the Guard in September 2015 and served as a human resources specialist with Detachment 1, Headquarters Support Company, 248th Aviation Support Battalion in Boone. Prior to that, he was an infantryman with the 168th Infantry in Corning, Johnston and Shenandoah. Whitlatch took his own life after the shooting.

Neither soldier was in an active duty status at the time of the shooting. The Iowa National Guard will provide casualty assistance to the family members of both soldiers.

We are devastated by this tragic news, said Maj. Gen. Ben Corell, adjutant general of the Iowa National Guard, Our hearts are with all who are impacted, including the victims families, Ames, Iowa State and Cornerstone Church communities, friends, and fellow service members. While working to support those affected, we will continue to cooperate with law enforcement as the investigation continues.

Iowa National Guard chaplains, Soldier Family Readiness professionals and behavioral health professionals have been engaged to assist service members and families processing this tragic news.

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Recently, Politico, a political journalism company based in Arlington County, Virginia, released what it claimed was a draft of an upcoming Supreme Court decision on a challenge to Roe v. Wade. This is a virtually unprecedented leak for the court, and to make matters worse, it purported to show the landmark decision on abortion would be reversed. The fear the leak is true has caused an uproar in the U.S., especially among the pro-choice Americans.

The state of important decision making in the U.S. is failing. Our Constitution as originally approved in 1787 was viewed as a living document. Article V created a mechanism for changing it. As early as 1791, 10 amendments had been approved, the Bill of Rights. However, in the 231 years since we have only made 17 more changes. I doubt the Founders imagined the number would ever be so low.

The original concept was that Congress would pass legislation, the president could approve it or not and the Supreme Court would determine if the laws violated the Constitution. Thats not how it is today.

The legislation passed by Congress is usually not major. Our political process has instead left big changes to the Supreme Court. As a result of our unproductive political divide and ingrained stubbornness, the court has far more influence and power than that envisioned by the Founders. Justices are chosen less on their understanding of the law and Constitution but rather their stance on issues important to the party. Today we have a court that is extremely conservative, especially on social issues. Personal freedoms may be restricted, abortion being just another example.

This is going to get worse. Our elected officials are more interested in the power and the wealth that can go with public office. They avoid dealing with proposals that could cost them votes. They seem more interested in serving their party than their constituents. Look at all of the votes that are almost exclusively along party lines.

And, this is our fault.

We voters are guilty of selecting candidates on the basis of their TV commercials, most directed toward throwing as much mud as possible. Once elected, they get swallowed up by the D.C. maelstrom and far removed from their constituents. Even those candidates who hold public meetings are not all that forthcoming. I watch and even attend some of those meetings, but I leave disappointed by the double talk and non-answers.

Physical appearance is extremely important to voters. This may be too cynical, but a first-time male candidate who is bald will seldom get elected. And a first-time woman candidate better be attractive. More and more we are electing entertainers and TV personalities to office. Do we really know anything about them? Further, the days when candidates abided by party platforms are disappearing. Candidates drift far away from the platform and tell us what they think we want to hear.

We need to be better. Do some real research on the races. Ignore TV ads. Forget social media. Find and trust reliable sources. And above all, think critically. Our country will be better for it.

Fred Abraham is professor emeritus at the University of Northern Iowa. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not reflect those of the university.

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Kadyrov gives another message about USA weapons

I already told you about the American M777 guns we destroyed in Lisichansk. Attached is video evidence.

The Nazis naively believed that if the howitzers were driven away after the shelling into the storage facilities, then they could be avoided by our drones.

Next time, Nazis, you dont have to work in vain  their location is calculated by calculating the ballistic trajectory, which was done by the fighters of the Akhmat special forces unit together with the second army corps of the LPR Peoples Militia. A few pinpoint strikes, and five 155mm howitzers, along with ammunition, are now a useless pile of metal. You can hand them over, Nazis, like scrap back to the Americans.

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Footage of the destruction of the headquarters of the 115th brigade of the reserve of the general staff of the Defense Ministry of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in Lisichansk.

The Akhmat special unit, together with the second army corps of the peoples militia of the LPR, carried out a successful attack, which caused genuine panic in the ranks of the enemy.

This is not for you to record on TikTok, Natzis

Get out of the LNR!

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Russia said today, told by Lavrov

That when Russia approached NATO with its concerns. That NATO was not just slightly ignoring Russia, NATO was extremely rude and flippant about the situation

Russia was told that what NATO was doing was non of its business and they officially made it known that what Russia thought meant nothing to them

NATO made a huge mistake

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BEIJING, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Countless new flavors of Zongzi has delighted Chinese people, as they celebrated the Dragon Boat Festival which fell on June 3 this year.

Zongzi, a glutinous rice dumpling wrapped in bamboo leaves, is a time-honored delicacy that Chinese people eat during this festival.

Innovative varieties such as milk tea Zongzi and stinky tofu Zongzi not only stirred people's taste buds but also changed their perception of traditional delicacies.

In recent years, there has been an ongoing debate online regarding whether the sweet or salty traditional flavor of the delicacy is better. Typical flavors of Zongzi are sweet ones made of red bean paste or dates, and salty ones are stuffed with salted yolk or pork.

During this year's holiday season, China's catering businesses have made every effort to attract customers by giving novel twists to the festival staple, packed with unique flavors.

From high-end ingredients like abalone, truffle and cubilose to local flavors such as spicy beef and crayfish, everything can be wrapped in Zongzi.

Data from the e-commerce giant JD.com shows that more than 130 new flavors hit the shelves during this year's Dragon Boat Festival.

The treat comes in all sorts of exotic flavorings. Dadong, a famous Peking roast duck restaurant, offers Zongzi filled with its special roast duck, while other companies market the delicacy with other nontraditional fillings like beef, yogurt and durian.

Another company to jump on the bandwagon this year is Wufangzhai, a time-honored Zongzi brand that dates back to 1921. It designed a special Zongzi gift package, which includes the eight major Chinese cuisines incorporating regional delicacies from across the country such as spicy Sichuan cuisine and Cantonese cuisines.

"This is our first attempt at creative new stuffings," said Xu Jinsheng, the product manager of the company, adding that every new flavor of Zongzi will undergo dozens of trials before the ideal recipe is finalized.

Developing new products that cater to consumers' ravenous appetite for novelty not only consolidated the advantages of time-honored brands but also brought young consumers closer.

Such innovations in traditional foodstuffs have successfully piqued consumers' interest, gaining popularity among young diners in particular. According to a report from JD.com, consumers aged 26 to 35 are most willing to try out new flavors.

The report also showed that male consumers are bigger fans of new flavors than female ones, and male consumers enjoy salty Zongzi more while female consumers prefer the sweet flavor.

Though faced with more choices, many consumers still believe in the idea of "the simpler, the better" and treasure the fragrance and authenticity of traditional flavors of Zongzi, which can revive their childhood or hometown memories.

Data from Pinduoduo, an e-commerce platform, shows that traditional flavored Zongzi sells well despite the mushrooming of their dazzling counterparts, with sales volume reaching over 100,000 units this year.

"Buying authentic Zongzi on online e-commerce platforms remains the choice of many consumers who work away from home," said a Pinduoduo employee. 
Briefing by Russian Defence Ministry

The Armed Forces of the Russian Federation continue the special military operation in Ukraine.

High-precision, long-range air-based missiles of the Russian Aerospace Forces have destroyed T-72 tanks and other armoured vehicles supplied by Eastern European countries and housed in the buildings of a car repair facility on the outskirts of Kiev.

High-precision air-based missiles in Kramatorsk, Druzhkovka and Chasov Yar (Donetsk Peoples Republic) have destroyed the factory shops where military equipment damaged during the hostilities was being repaired and restored for the Ukrainian armed forces.

In addition, the command posts of the 81st and 95th Airborne Assault Brigades of the AFU, as well as 6 areas of Ukrainian manpower and military equipment concentration have been hit during the day.

The attacks have resulted in the destruction of 2 Osa-AKM anti-aircraft missile launchers near Cherkasskoe (Donetsk Peoples Republic) and Orekhov (Zaporozhye Region), 2 multiple-launch rocket launchers near Korotych (Kharkov Region), 3 missile and artillery weapon depots near Mayaki and Slavyansk (Donetsk Peoples Republic), and 1 US-made counter-battery radar (AN/TPQ-50) near Seversk (Donetsk Peoples Republic).

Operational-tactical and army aviation have hit 3 command posts, 65 areas of manpower and military equipment concentration, and 3 ammunition depots.

The attacks have resulted in the elimination of more than 350 nationalists, 10 tanks armoured and motor vehicles, 2 Grad multiple rocket launchers, 9 artillery pieces, 14 special vehicles, as well as tanks with fuel, near Konstantinovka railway station, destined for a group of AFU troops in Donbass and 2 ammunition depots near Bakhmut (Donetsk Peoples Republic) and Loskutovka (Lugansk Peoples Republic).

1 MiG-29 aircraft of the Ukrainian Air Force has been shot down during an aerial battle near Slavyansk (Donetsk Peoples Republic).

Russian air defence means near Odessa have shot down 1 An-26 military transport aircraft of the Ukrainian Air Force carrying weapons and military equipment.

Also during the day, 10 unmanned aerial vehicles have been shot down near Vidrodzhennya, Ryasnoe, Svyatogorsk (Donetsk Peoples Republic), Kirovsk, Prudovka, Borovenki, Varvarovka (Lugansk Peoples Republic), Volchiy Yar, Bolshie Prokhody (Kharkov Region), Zazornoe (Zaporizhzhya Region), including 1 Bayraktar TV2 near Berezovka (Kharkov Region).

In addition, 2 Tochka-U tactical missiles have been intercepted over Novogeorgievka (Nikolaev Region), and 3 Ukrainian Uragan multiple rocket launchers have been shot down near Sukhaya Kamenka, Dolgenkoe and Kamenka (Kharkov Region).

Missile troops and artillery have hit 46 command posts, 123 artillery and mortar units at firing positions, as well as 498 areas of AFU manpower and military equipment concentration.

In total, 189 Ukrainian aircraft and 129 helicopters, 1,114 unmanned aerial vehicles, 330 anti-aircraft missile systems, 3,416 tanks and other armored combat vehicles, 470 multiple launch rocket systems, 1,778 field artillery and mortars, as well as 3,419 units of special military vehicles were destroyed during the operation.

#MoD #Russia #Ukraine #Briefing

@mod_russia_enjoy

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Weather Alert

...Heating Up This Week, Then Increasing Winds This Weekend... * Summer's first multi-day period of heat is projected Thursday through Saturday. Highs well into the 90s in Western Nevada and into the 80s for Sierra communities are expected, with potential for some records on Friday. There is a chance of cities such as Reno (15%) and Fallon (50%) of hitting 100 degrees on Friday. Heat health impacts are possible, especially for vulnerable populations and those outdoors for extended periods. Now is a good time to ensure cooling systems are in good working order. For more information, please see the Heat Advisory. * Winds are expected to increase for the upcoming weekend, with Sunday looking to be the windiest day. While not a major wind event, widespread gusts on the order of 30-40 mph are possible Saturday afternoon with gusts 40-50 mph Sunday. This would cause rough water on lakes, tricky travel for high profile vehicles, and increased turbulence for aviation. With dry air expected, these winds could also cause increased concern for rapid fire spread in vegetation that dries out due to the upcoming heat. * The hot temperatures will also result in minor rises on creeks and streams in the Sierra from snowmelt. Slightly higher flows of cold water could impact recreation and camping near streams, however levels will be well short of any flood stages.

...HEAT ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 10 AM TO 8 PM PDT FRIDAY... * WHAT...High temperatures Friday 95 to 100. * WHERE...Lower elevations of Lassen-Eastern Plumas-Eastern Sierra Counties including Susanville, Greater Reno-Carson City-Minden Area and Northern Washoe County around Gerlach. * WHEN...From 10 AM to 8 PM PDT Friday. * IMPACTS...Hot temperatures and sunny skies may cause heat illnesses to occur, especially for those sensitive to heat and outdoors for extended periods of time. Since this is the first heat event of the summer season, many people are not yet acclimatized to heat and may be impacted more than normal. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...These are potentially record setting highs for the date, and unusually early to be so close to 100 degrees. The average first 100 degrees for Reno isn't until July 10th. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... Now is the time to prepare and ensure your cooling systems are in good working order. On the day of, drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air- conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances. &&


Nanollose to Launch Designer Garment at Global Fashion Summit

Perth, June 6, 2022 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Nanollose Limited ( ASX:NC6 ) ( FRA:N0L ) a leading bio-materials company focused on commercialising scalable technology to create fibres and fabrics with minimal environmental impact, is pleased to unveil its world-first garment made from 100% Tree-Free and Forest-Friendly NullarborTM lyocell fibre.The garment was designed by Australian fashion designer Lee Mathews and will be launched in collaboration with leading man-made cellulosic fibre manufacturer Birla Cellulose at the Global Fashion Summit in Copenhagen on 7 and 8 June.Lee Mathews (www.leemathews.com.au) is a leading fashion designer in ethical womenswear. Founded in Sydney and now with four Australian retail locations, Lee Mathews has grown to become a global fashion force selling throughout Australia and several respected international platforms.Birla Cellulose is a global leader in sustainable fibres and operates with an integrated value chain from forest plantations to fibre production. Its operations span 9 countries and 12 manufacturing locations globally. The fabric brands Liva and Livaeco are from the house of Birla Cellulose. These brands have become household names with major global brands, with a presence across several countries carrying Liva/Livaeco tags. Birla Cellulose is delighted to be part of this new journey.The 100% Tree-Free Nullarbor fibre was made in collaboration with Birla Cellulose at its R&D facilities in India. The fibre was then spun into yarn by The Institute for Frontier Materials at Deakin University, Victoria, using standard industrial yarn making equipment. The resulting Nullarbor yarn was then provided to Victorian knitwear developer, Knovus, who made two copies of the Lee Mathews designed garment and sample swatches using the latest zero-waste 3D knitting technology. The process demonstrated that Nullarbor lyocell fibre integrates seamlessly with existing industrial equipment to produce high-quality garments.The production and promotion of this 100% Tree-Free Nullarbor garment complements Nanollose's first pilot production in February 2022 which led to the creation of 250kg of Nullarbor-20 ForestFriendly fibre from a blend of 20% microbial cellulose and 80% conventional wood pulp, and demonstrates the potential of the technology and resulting fibres.The Global Fashion Summit in Copenhagen is the leading international forum for sustainability in fashion and fosters industry collaboration to drive positive impact. Attendees feature influential voices in the industry including commentators, visionaries, researchers, politicians, designers, environmentalists, and journalists.Launching at a widely respected global industry event provides Nanollose with the opportunity to unveil the new garment and promote Nullarbor to a wide audience of industry professionals. With Nanollose's innovative processes providing a potential solution to some of the critical environmental issues facing the industry, particularly deforestation, the Company anticipates an increased level of interest following the successful launch at the summit. Progress is being made across a number of business development initiatives as discussions with several potential partners including leading global fashion and textile brands continue.CommentExecutive Chairman, Dr Wayne Best, said: "This is an exciting opportunity for Nanollose to showcase what can be achieved by designers and fashion labels incorporating our Forest-Friendly Nullarbor fibres. To this end, Lee Mathews has incorporated several knits into the garment which highlight the properties and versatility of the fibre. We are also delighted to be able to share this opportunity with our colleagues at Birla Cellulose who have been instrumental in the creation of the fibre."The Summit is the perfect setting to introduce our new Nullarbor garment, with the event attracting the brightest and most innovative in the fashion industry. With a focus on sustainability and leading positive change, we will have access to a wide audience who set the agenda on the most critical environmental, ethical and social issues facing the industry and look for the solutions to fix them.Attending alongside our strategic partner Birla Cellulose, we expect to see an increased level of interest following the event as more potential partners get to see and feel the benefits of the fibre first-hand."Mr Rajnikant Sabnavis, Chief Marketing Officer, Birla Cellulose, said: "At Birla Cellulose, we are committed towards developing ideas that meet the exacting needs of the fashion industry while meeting our ambitious sustainability goals, so vital for the planet. The Summit is a great opportunity for showcasing the innovation that has been codeveloped with Nanollose to bring a non-tree fibre to life in combination with our own sustainable lyocell fibre. We are looking forward to more such developments and we have more innovations particularly in the space of Circular fibres in the pipeline. We, at Birla Cellulose will always endeavour to bring fashion closer to the ideals of sustainability".About Birla CelluloseBirla Cellulose, the Pulp and Fibre business of Aditya Birla Group (ABG), is a leading sustainability focused man made cellulosic fibre producer. Its nature based fibres come from natural renewable sources from responsibly managed forestry. Grasim Industries Limited, a flagship company of ABG, ranks amongst the top publicly listed companies in India and operates Indian facilities of Birla Cellulose.Birla Cellulose operates 12 pulp and fibre sites globally that apply closed-loop processes and environmentally efficient technologies that recycle raw materials and conserve natural resources. It's five global advanced research centers are equipped with state of the art facilities and pilot plants. It's new generation innovative products like Livaeco by Birla Cellulose, Liva Reviva, Birla Excel and Birla Spunshades are designed with superior sustainable credentials. With an aim to create bigger and broader impact, Birla Cellulose collaborates actively with its value chain partners and works closely with organizations like, Canopy Planet, Sustainable Apparel Coalition (SAC), Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals (ZDHC), Changing Markets Foundation, Textile Exchange, WBSCD, Fashion for Good amongst others to continually learn and apply the best practices within its global operations and across its value chain.*To view photographs, please visit:About Nanollose Limited

Nanollose Limited (ASX:NC6) is an innovative Australian company that uses a low cost and eco-friendly fermentation process to grow fibres that could become a sustainable alternative to conventional plant-derived cellulose fibres. The Company's process, which uses streams from various large-scale industries like sugar, wine and food, has the ability to produce 'Plant-Free' Cellulose. Cellulose is the hidden building block polymer most consumers know nothing about, but forms a huge part of items used in their everyday life such as clothing, paper and hygiene products.
With the high number of job openings, the effects of the pandemic on employment in areas of high tech, agriculture, construction and more, there is increased discussion of where are the workers? Included in the responsibilities of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is temporary worker programs. It is complicated  sponsorships, forms, fees, etc. The information here covers a couple of the most-used temporary worker programs. This is not intended to cover all the details of the programs.

According to the U.S. State Department: Temporary worker visas are for persons who want to enter the United States for employment lasting a fixed period of time and are not considered permanent or indefinite. Each of these visas requires the prospective employer to first file a petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). An approved petition is required to apply for a work visa.

The following is from the USCIS website:

H-1B Specialty Occupations, DOD Cooperative Research and Development Project Workers, and Fashion Models

Applies to people who wish to perform services in a specialty occupation, services of exceptional merit and ability relating to a Department of Defense (DOD) cooperative research and development project, or services as a fashion model of distinguished merit or ability.

Eligibility Criteria

Specialty Occupations

 Theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge; and

 Attainment of a bachelors or higher degree in the specific specialty or its equivalent as a minimum for entry into the occupation in the United States.

 Additional criteria for education required by position.

 Labor Condition Application certified by the Department of Labor.

DOD Researcher and Development Project Worker

 A bachelors or higher degree or its equivalent in the occupational field of the services.

 Labor Condition Application not required

Fashion Model

 The position/services must require a fashion model of prominence.

 Must be a fashion model of distinguished merit and ability.

 Labor Condition Application certified by the Department of Labor

Period of Stay

May be admitted for a period up to three years, may be extended for up to six years, some exceptions apply.

H-1B Cap

Annual limit of 65,000 new statuses/visas each fiscal year. Additional 20,000 for those with a masters degree or higher from a U.S. institution are exempt from the cap. Those petitioned for or employed at an institution of higher education or its affiliated or related nonprofit entities, nonprofit research organization, or government research organization are not subject to the cap. According to Pew Research the cap is reached within a week of opening.

Fees and costs

The employer pays most, can total thousands of dollars.

H-2A Temporary Agricultural Workers

U.S. employers who meet specific regulatory requirements can bring foreign nationals to the United States to fill temporary agricultural jobs.

Who may qualify for a H-2A Classification?

The petitioner must:

 Offer a job that is temporary or seasonal nature.

 Demonstrate there are not enough U.S. workers who are able, willing, qualified and available to do the temporary work.

 Show that employing H-2A workers will not adversely affect the wages and working conditions of similarly employed U.S. workers.

 Submit a single valid temporary labor certification from the U.S. Department of Labor with the H-2A petition.

Period of Stay

Up to the period authorized on the temporary labor certification. May be extended in increments up to one year each. Maximum period of three years.

In fiscal year 2021, the Department of Labor certified over 317,000 jobs.

Filing Fee

Paid by the petitioner, $460. Other fees may apply.

H-2B Temporary Non-Agricultural Workers

Permits employers to temporarily hire nonimmigrants to perform nonagricultural labor or services in the United States. The employment must be of a temporary nature for a limited period such as one-time occurrence, seasonal need, peak load need or intermittent need. Also establishes certain recruitment and displacement standards to protect similarly employed U.S. workers.

Who may qualify?

The petitioner must establish that:

 There are not enough U.S. workers who are able, willing, and qualified, and available to do the temporary work.

 Employing H-2B workers will not adversely affect wages and working conditions of similarly employed U.S. workers.

 Its need is temporary. Considered temporary: one-time occurrence or seasonal need or peak load need or intermittent need.

H-2B Cap

Cap at 66,000 per fiscal year. The cap has been temporarily increased for several years due to the demand.

Period of Stay

Up to the period authorized on the temporary labor certification. May be extended in increments up to one year each. Maximum period of three years.

Fees and costs

The employer pays most, can total thousands of dollars.

Sources: uscis.gov, travel.state.gov and wilsoncenter.org.
The tragic death of 4-year-old James Dunklee Cruz cant go down as just another CYFD foul-up. It is too heartbreaking and appears entirely preventable had the N.M. Children, Youth, and Families Department heeded warning signs and advice of its investigator.

Two months before he was beaten to death in December 2019, James was taken to urgent care. The signs of abuse were obvious  an injured shoulder, black eye and bruising of his penis. James told police and social workers he was being hurt and sexually abused by men in his mothers life. An autopsy later determined he had suffered jaw fractures and head trauma much earlier than the head and torso injuries that took his life.

Police video in a wrongful death lawsuit against CYFD shows James, at the urgent care center with his arm in a sling, politely answering questions. He even asked a delightfully surprised officer how his day was going. Its a heart-wrenching video; see it at abqjournal.com.

Yet, child welfare workers never filed for legal custody of James, despite 10 referrals to CYFD of child abuse or neglect. By the time a CYFD county case manager approved taking James into custody, he couldnt be located. He was found unresponsive Dec. 10, 2019, in an Albuquerque apartment after his mother, then-22-year-old Krista Cruz, left for work. He was beaten to death by his moms roommate, Zerrick Marquez, whom CYFD warned Cruz not to live with.

Marquez pleaded guilty in May to child abuse resulting in death but has indicated he wants to withdraw the plea. His girlfriend, Pamela Esparza, and Cruz await trial for reckless child abuse resulting in death.

Instead of taking James into custody when it had the chance, CYFD relied on Cruz to adhere to a series of safety plans and other verbal directives  a tragic error by a state agency prone to tragic results.

If that werent egregious enough, a former CYFD investigator recently testified in the wrongful death lawsuit filed by James estate that she knew James was being sexually abused and tried in vain to remove him from the abusive and life-threatening home.

Former caseworker Jessica Etoll says supervisors told her to calm down and erase and edit her case notes before entering them into the CYFD system.

Upon learning of James death, the wrongful death lawsuit alleges CYFD supervisors redacted and revised Etolls investigative notes to eliminate evidence of CYFD liability and caused a factory reset of her CYFD cellphone  erasing photos, text messages and other material evidence  even as CYFD was opening its own investigation into the death. If the allegations hold true, its a concerning cover-up of government misconduct.

A CYFD spokesman says the department is confident in its position and remains committed to improving New Mexicos child welfare system and preventing incidents like this from happening.

Really? How, exactly? James death occurred more than three years ago, and we have yet to find out whether CYFD learned any lessons from this tragedy.

When Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham was a candidate for governor she penned an op-ed published in the Journal on May 28, 2018. Talking about yet another case where warning signs had been missed and children left in an abusive and dangerous environment, Lujan Grisham wrote it is outrageous, unacceptable and disturbing that  the system created to help these children and others just like them failed. She pledged as governor to build a vigilant system and keep children safe. Achieving this will be no easy feat, but its a challenge Im uniquely qualified to undertake. She added we must hold our partners, our leaders and ourselves accountable.

The Journal wrote an editorial about James case more than a year ago, calling on the governor to step forward in James case, order an investigation, publicly outline what went wrong and hold accountable anyone who was responsible. A year later, were still waiting to hear if anything has been learned.

And now, with allegations of a cover-up, that investigation and public disclosure are even more important.

Its encouraging to hear 2nd Judicial District Attorney Raul Torrezs office is reviewing the allegations of potential misconduct by CYFD employees and Attorney General Hector Balderas has promised an evaluation of whether any laws were broken. But Lujan Grisham, who has a law degree and years in the human services realm, must take a more proactive role.

New Mexicans deserve a thorough investigation into this case, including any cover-up.Undoubtedly Lujan Grisham inherited an agency thats been troubled for decades, but this occurred on her watch. If the allegations are true, the public deserves to know who was responsible and what disciplinary actions are being taken. Only the governor can ensure the systemic culture change needed to make CYFD accountable for the safety and well-being of some of New Mexicos most vulnerable.

Those are the promises she made in 2018  a year before James death. Those are the promises we urged her to keep more than a year ago. We are still waiting.

This editorial first appeared in the Albuquerque Journal. It was written by members of the editorial board and is unsigned as it represents the opinion of the newspaper rather than the writers.
Two rookie cops set up a stakeout in a cheap motel to snare an embezzling small-town mayor. When the videotape catches a bit of unrehearsed hanky-panky and a kilt-wearing, bagpipe-wielding hit man stumbles into the fray, pandemonium ensues.

The Adobe Theater is staging Paul Slade Smiths Unnecessary Farce on weekends from Friday, June 10 through July 3.

Eight doors, two inept policemen, one inept detective, a mayor who has embezzled $16 million, an accountant who cant keep her clothes on and a Scottish mob boss, director Nancy Sellin said of the plays lineup. It has no redeeming qualities except its a really good time.

Sellin will direct a cast of seven, including Madelon Brown, Lewis Hauser, Miles Hughes, Sarah Kesselring, Antonio Trigo III, Lianne Walk and Eric John Werner.

People dash in and out of rooms, slam doors and hide in closets.

Set in a Michigan motel, the play opens with two officers anxious to prove themselves through a successful sting operation. The pair arrive armed with a tower of donuts and recording equipment in the room next door to a bumbling Mayor Meekly. The mayor is set to meet with an accountant to discuss finances.

The eight doors slam, become inadvertently weaponized and repeatedly lock.

Highland hit man Todds Scottish brogue grows progressively incoherent the angrier he gets.

The whole thing is just to have a good time, Sellin said. People going in and out of doors  it hardly passes as a plot. Its forget our troubles for two hours.
Copyright  2022 Albuquerque Journal

Melanie Barnes first interacted with the Bureau of Land Management 18 years ago as a University of New Mexico graduate student researching restoration ecology.

In May, Barnes stepped into the role of BLM New Mexico state director.

She said its an honor to manage public land for people and wildlife.

When I worked on rare plants, I learned that the number one reason that species are endangered or rare is because of habitat loss, she said. I really wanted to get on the other side of that habitat equation, which is land management.

Barnes will oversee 800 employees, 13.5 million acres of public lands and 42 million acres of federal minerals.

The federal agencys New Mexico office also regulates land in Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas.

Barnes has held various positions with the BLM in New Mexico since 2007 and has been acting state director since June.

The agencys four-state region generated $22.5 billion in economic output in 2020  much of it funded by oil and gas leasing.

The BLM studies how to protect land and water, and endangered species from energy development.

In southeast New Mexicos lesser prairie chicken habitat, the BLM limits when drill rigs can operate during the rare birds mating season.

Barnes said shes also proud of the work to boost renewable energy on public lands.

Were seeing big increases in solar project applications in our Las Cruces office, and wind energy applications in our Roswell office, Barnes said.

State officials want to preserve cultural landscapes as outdoor recreation visits increase.

The New Mexico agency is considering adopting an initiative similar to Utahs Respect and Protect program.

That campaign trains volunteers to monitor archaeological sites.

BLM national director Tracey Stone-Manning said such leaders as Barnes are important as the agency continue(s) to rebuild.

Her natural resources and land management experience and deep understanding of New Mexico will benefit the communities and constituents we serve, Stone-Manning said in a statement.

The federal agencys headquarters moved from Washington, D.C., to Grand Junction, Colorado, under the previous administration.

Of the 328 positions moved, only three BLM employees relocated to Grand Junction.

The current Interior Department said the upheaval led to a significant loss of institutional memory and talent.

The agency plans to keep the Colorado office as a Western bureau headquarters, but also wants to restore the D.C. national offices.
Copyright  2022 Albuquerque Journal

In an effort to give Albuquerques International District more political sway, two city councilors have developed a concept map that would radically reshape their own districts and  potentially  put one of them out of a job.

The dramatic boundary revisions posited by Councilors Pat Davis and Tammy Fiebelkorn would separate the International District from Nob Hill, two areas currently located within District 6. But it also would exclude Davis  District 6s second-term councilor  from the district he was twice elected to represent. Under the Davis/Fiebelkorn map, Davis could not run for reelection next year unless he moved.

But the Davis/Fiebelkorn map remains just an idea, one of several under review.

The duo submitted it to Albuquerques citizen-led redistricting committee, which voted May 18 to adopt it as an official map under consideration.

There are now seven concept maps before the committee, and the panel will continue accepting new maps until its Wednesday meeting.

The committee has until July 1 to make recommendations to the City Council, which has the final say on where to draw boundaries for the nine council districts.

The council may or may not accept the committees recommendations, but it will have to approve at least some changes to the current district map to account for the uneven population growth identified by the 2020 U.S. Census. Some of the maps before the redistricting committee make relatively minor adjustments.

But the Davis/Fiebelkorn map would dramatically shift boundaries in the southern half of the city.

As it stands today, District 6 covers the area south of Lomas between University and Eubank, including Nob Hill and what is generally considered the entire International District.

The current District 7 runs north of Lomas to Montgomery, covering Uptown and the middle of the city.

The Davis/Fiebelkorn map would condense District 6s east-west coverage to the area between San Mateo and Eubank, while extending it as far north as Candelaria, taking most of Uptown. District 7 would keep part of its existing Northeast Heights area, but sweep west of District 6 and take the Nob Hill and Mesa del Sol areas.

Fiebelkorn said she wanted to present an idea that would give the International Districts large, culturally significant population a more united voice on the council. She said she thinks International District residents may have more in common with residents just north of Lomas than with current district-mates in Nob Hill, which she called a completely different demographic.

One of the baselines of redistricting is that we find ways to make marginalized communities have a voice, she said.

Under the proposal, the District 6 population would be 49.2% Hispanic, up from the current level of 46.8%, according to data on the citys redistricting website. It would keep the Native American (6.3%) and Asian (2.7%) concentrations the same, but lower the white population to 33.8% from 35.2% and the Black population to 4.1% from 4.5%.

But Fiebelkorn stressed that this is just an idea. She said she wants the redistricting committee  which started meeting and studying the relevant issues in March  to do its own thorough review.

I want to hear what the folks who have been living and breathing this the last several months think in terms of these various options and what would be the best to make sure everybody is represented in a fair and equitable way, she said.

Davis said the redistricting committee has seen maps that would have portioned part of the International District into the eastern district that includes Four Hills, something he did not want to see.

As for his own political future, he said hes not prepared to say what he would do if a map carves him out of his own district but that hes inclined to honor my commitment to only run for two terms.

I think we should have some different voices on the City Council, he said. If you look at it now, the entire east side of the city is represented by white folks, and I think that shows the current districting is leaving some people out of the process.

Redistricting Committee Chair Cathryn McGill  the panels District 6 representative  said she did not want to comment specifically on any one map since theyre all conceptual. But she reiterated that the goal of redistricting is to achieve equity so that one person equals one vote citywide and said she cares about the International District.

I want to shift and change that narrative and allow people to know how great the International District is, and view it as an asset as opposed to a detriment, she said. If that means we need to take a serious look at drawing different boundaries to improve representation there, Im certainly going to be open-minded about that.
BEIJING, June 5 (Xinhua) -- China's weeks-long mid-year online shopping event got off to a steady start amid business resumption and pro-growth policy incentives, which analysts believe can help boost consumption as COVID-19 impacts wear thin.

The annual shopping bonanza, featuring promotional campaigns at multiple e-commerce platforms, kicked off on June 1. Many online retailers said sales took off in the beginning hours, especially on upscale big-ticket items.

The first 4 hours of JD.com's campaign saw sales of gaming television top that of last June as a whole, while sales of smartphones costing over 4,000 yuan (about 596 U.S. dollars) from six brands tripled year on year.

Suning reported a 78-percent year-on-year sales increase on high-end home appliances of over 10,000 yuan during its first round of the campaign, while the number of customers trading in old items for new ones rose 56 percent from a year ago.

The whopping growth is backed by the recovery of the retail sector, as the country accelerates the implementation of policies to stabilize the economy. Industry activity gauges for warehouse storage, logistics and e-commerce logistics have all perked up in May from a month ago while posting upbeat expectations for further expansion.

Shanghai, for instance, handled an above-average daily total of 11 million express delivery packages on June 1, the first day of its return to normal production and life after two months of closed-off management to contain the COVID-19 resurgence.

Tempting prices and generous giveaways at e-commerce platforms also fueled shoppers' passion. JD.com and Pinduoduo have collaborated with cities like Beijing, Shenzhen and Shanghai to issue vouchers for customers to use on top of already reduced prices.

With the help of these incentives, the year's major online shopping event will serve as a strong driver of consumption, which was dampened by COVID-19 flare-ups, said Li Mingtao, an analyst with China International Electronic Commerce Center.

Online outlets are taking up increasingly larger shares of China's consumer product market. In the first four months of this year, online sales of physical goods rose 5.2 percent, with its proportion in retail sales climbing to 23.8 percent.

These outlets are pooling their resources along the supply chain, including nationwide warehouse networks and internet traffic, to expand sales for struggling small and medium-sized firms.

Noting that small businesses, like many vendors on e-commerce platforms, are the main targets of supportive policies, Zhao Ping, vice president of the Academy of China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, said these platforms can help free them from constraints in the financing, technology, marketing and human resources by offering digital solutions.

China will step up the integrated development of online and offline shopping, and nurture new consumption trends like customization and experiential shopping, said Vice Minister of Commerce Sheng Qiuping.

The country has rolled out a series of detailed measures to further tap its consumption potential and tackle short-term bottlenecks, including relaxing restrictions on car purchases and handing out billions of yuan in shopping vouchers. 
Copyright  2022 Albuquerque Journal

SANTA FE  New Mexicos red flag gun law was approved in 2020 after a bruising debate that pitted gun control advocates and top state Democrats against Republicans and most county sheriffs statewide.

But two years after its enactment, the law that allows firearms to be temporarily taken away from those deemed dangerous to themselves or others is rarely being used.

In all, nine petitions have been filed statewide for court orders allowing gun seizures, according to data provided by the state Administrative Office of the Courts. And only five of those nine cases resulted in one-year orders being approved.

Rep. Joy Garratt, D-Albuquerque, who was among the sponsors of the 2020 bill, said law enforcement officers need to be better educated on the law, which is technically known as the Extreme Risk Firearm Protection Order Act.

She also said she believes some law enforcement officials have intentionally balked at utilizing the law.

Its a tool that I think can be used more effectively, Garratt told the Journal.

Specifically, Garratt cited a recent double murder-suicide near Cottonwood Mall in Albuquerque as the type of case in which the states red flag gun law could have been effective  if it had been utilized.

In that case, police say a 52-year old man shot and killed two teenagers  including the daughter of his ex-girlfriend  just over a month after a restraining order had been granted against him. The restraining order was filed due to threats directed at the teenage girl.

If law enforcement had been aware of (the law), it could have prevented deaths, Garratt said.

As it currently stands, New Mexicos law stipulates emergency firearm petitions shall be filed by law enforcement when credible information is received that an individual poses a danger of causing imminent personal injury to themselves or others with a gun.

Meanwhile, at least some other states with red flag gun laws  there are currently 19 in all  have seen more frequent utilization.

In Florida, for instance, where lawmakers passed such a law after a 2018 mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, judges have reportedly acted more than 8,000 times to take guns out of the hands of those deemed to pose a threat to themselves or others.

Garen Wintemute, a University of California, Davis, professor who has studied gun violence, said evidence indicates one suicide death is prevented for every 10 to 20 red flag gun law orders issued.

Regarding New Mexicos law, he said its not a surprise it has not been frequently used.

Implementation has always been an issue, Wintemute told the Journal. Its a new policy, and without a local champion, its likely to sit unused.

Research done by Wintemute and his colleagues found that subjects targeted by Californias red flag gun law  the nations first of its kind  in an attempt to prevent mass shootings were predominately Anglo males with a mean age of 35.

Most of them had made explicit threats and owned multiple firearms.

Responding to threats

The firearm petitions that have been filed in New Mexico over the last two years came in response to threats  and in some cases  acts of violence.

One petition was filed in 2020 after a Farmington landlord told police his tenant had talked about going to Washington, D.C., to protect former President Donald Trump against current President Joe Biden, according to court records.

Another was filed after a Ranchos de Taos woman said her husband had beaten her and her son.

Most recently, an Albuquerque Police Department detective last month filed an emergency firearm petition after a mother reported her son had told her he killed grandmas and threatened he was going to get my people to get her husband.

The son is a U.S. Air Force veteran who has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.

He had four guns in his possession, including an AR-15 style assault rifle, and acknowledged thoughts of using one of the guns to commit suicide, according to court records. He also had reportedly told his mother he had started wearing a bowl over his head to keep others from entering his thoughts.

A hearing before a judge on whether the 10-day temporary seizure of the firearms should be extended for one year is scheduled for June 14.

Single case

Under New Mexicos red flag law, only a law enforcement officer or a prosecutor can file a petition in state court for an order to prohibit someone from possessing firearms.

The petitions can be filed upon request from a spouse, ex-spouse, parent, child, grandparent, school administrator or employer, though those individuals can not file petitions directly.

If a temporary 10-day order is granted, a hearing is then held to determine whether the order should be made permanent for one years time. Such permanent orders can then be extended for an additional year if a motion is filed before it expires.

Of the nine petitions that have been filed around New Mexico since 2020, one was denied by a judge, two were dismissed by the filing party and five one-year orders were issued, according to data provided by the Administrative Office of the Courts.

The remaining case involving the veteran in Bernalillo County is still pending.

While that case marks the first time the law has been invoked in the states largest city, Albuquerque Police Department spokesman Gilbert Gallegos said the agency will discuss ways to possibly strengthen the red flag gun law this summer as part of Mayor Tim Kellers Metro Crime Initiative.

Adjustments to the law

With New Mexicos red flag gun law only being used infrequently, potential changes to it have been floated.

Maddy Hayden, a spokeswoman for Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, said an amendment to the law allowing spouses and partners to file petitions directly with the court  instead of going through law enforcement  could be an option to increase usage.

A bill that would have expanded the type of situations in which emergency firearm petitions could be filed  and the category of people who could file them  was introduced in 2021 but failed to win legislative approval.

Meanwhile, Hayden also pointed out there is not a ready mechanism for situations in which a law enforcement officer is unwilling to file an emergency firearm petition.

But she also pointed out firearms may also be confiscated from individuals under other laws, and said one of the red flag gun laws chief goals was to create a way to remove firearms from those suffering from mental illness.

This law has already resulted in firearms being removed from individuals who may have gone on to commit violence, Hayden told the Journal. This is the intent of the law, and if this law has saved even one life, we are glad it is on New Mexicos books.

Ever since the bill was first proposed in New Mexico, however, some sheriffs have vowed they would not use it, due in part to concerns over constitutional due process issues.

Theyve made this bill so horrible that we cant (enforce it), Cibola County Sheriff Tony Mace said in 2020. Somebody hasnt even committed a crime, and youre taking their personal property.

But Rep. Daymon Ely, D-Corrales, who was also a sponsor of the 2020 legislation, said a recent spate of mass shootings suggests more needs to be done to address gun violence.

In my mind, its a good start but its too cumbersome, Ely said of the states red flag gun law. We just need to make it so its not so complicated.
KYIV, Ukraine  Russia took aim Sunday at Western military supplies for Ukraine, launching airstrikes on Kyiv that it claimed destroyed tanks donated from abroad, as Vladimir Putin warned that any Western deliveries of longer-range rocket systems would prompt Moscow to hit objects that we havent yet struck.

The Russian leaders cryptic threat of military escalation did not specify what the new targets might be. It came days after the United States announced plans to deliver $700 million of security assistance for Ukraine that includes four precision-guided, medium-range rocket systems, as well as helicopters, Javelin anti-tank systems, radars, tactical vehicles and more.

Military analysts say Russia hopes to overrun Ukraines embattled eastern industrial Donbas region, where Russia-backed separatists have fought the Ukrainian government since 2014, before the arrival of any U.S. weapons that might turn the tide. The Pentagon said last week that it will take at least three weeks to get the U.S. weapons onto the battlefield.

Ukraine said the missiles aimed at the capital hit a train repair shop. Elsewhere, Russian airstrikes in the eastern city of Druzhkivka destroyed buildings and left at least one person dead, a Ukrainian official said. Residents described waking to the sound of missile strikes, with rubble and glass falling down around them.

It was like in a horror movie, Svitlana Romashkina said.

The Russian Defense Ministry said air-launched precision missiles were used to destroy workshops in the Donetsk region of eastern Ukraine, including in Druzhkivka, that were repairing damaged Ukrainian military equipment.

Meanwhile, Ukraines General Staff said Russian forces fired five X-22 cruise missiles from the Caspian Sea toward Kyiv, and one was destroyed by air defenses. Four other missiles hit infrastructure facilities, but Ukraine said there were no casualties.

Nuclear plant operator Energoatom said one cruise missile buzzed close to the Pivdennoukrainsk nuclear plant, 350 kilometers (220 miles) to the south, seemingly on its way to Kyiv. It warned of the possibility of a nuclear catastrophe if even one missile fragment had hit the facility.

The missiles that struck Kyiv destroyed T-72 tanks supplied by Eastern European countries and other armored vehicles, the Russian Defense Ministry said on the Telegram app.

Ukraines railway authority subsequently led reporters on a guided tour of a rail car repair plant in eastern Kyiv that it said was hit by four missiles. The authority said no military equipment had been stored there, and Associated Press reporters saw no remnants of any in the facilitys destroyed building.

There were no tanks, and you can just be witness to this. said Serhiy Leshchenko, an adviser to the Ukrainian presidents office.

However, a government adviser said on national TV that military infrastructure also was targeted. AP reporters saw a building burning in an area near the destroyed rail car plant. Two residents of that district said the warehouse-type structure that billowed smoke was part of a tank-repair facility. Police blocking access to the site told an AP reporter that military authorities had banned the taking of images there.

In a television interview that aired Sunday, Putin lashed out at Western deliveries of weapons to Ukraine, saying they aim to prolong the war.

All this fuss around additional deliveries of weapons, in my opinion, has only one goal: to drag out the armed conflict as much as possible, Putin said. He insisted such supplies were unlikely to change the military situation for Ukraines government, which he said was merely making up for losses of similar rockets.

If Kyiv gets longer-range rockets, he added, Moscow will draw appropriate conclusions and use our means of destruction, which we have plenty of, in order to strike at those objects that we havent yet struck.

The U.S. has stopped short of offering Ukraine longer-range weapons that could fire deep into Russia. But the four medium-range High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems in the security package include launchers on wheels that allow troops to strike a target and then quickly move away  which could be useful against Russian artillery on the battlefield.

Moscow also accused the West on Sunday of closing off lines of communication by forcing Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrovs plane to cancel a trip to Serbia for talks Monday.

Serbias neighbors closed their airspace to Lavrovs plane, ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told Italian television in comments reported by Russian news agencies. Earlier in the day, Serbian newspaper Vecernje Novosti had said that Bulgaria, North Macedonia and Montenegro would not allow Lavrovs plane to come through.

This is another closed channel of communication, Zakharova said.

The Spanish daily El Pais reported Sunday that Spain planned to supply anti-aircraft missiles and up to 40 Leopard 2 A4 battle tanks to Ukraine. Spains Ministry of Defense did not comment on the report.

Before Sundays early morning attack, Kyiv had not faced any such Russian airstrikes since the April 28 visit of U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. The attack triggered air-raid alarms and showed that Russia still had the capability and willingness to hit at Ukraines heart, despite refocusing its efforts to capture Ukrainian territory in the east.

In recent days, Russian forces have focused on capturing Ukraines eastern cities of Sievierodonetsk and Lysychansk. On Sunday they continued their push, with missile and airstrikes on cities and villages in the Donbas.

In the cities of Sloviansk and Bakhmut, cars and military vehicles were seen speeding into town from the direction of the front line. Dozens of military doctors and paramedic ambulances worked to evacuate civilians and Ukrainian servicemen, and a hospital was busy treating the injured, many hurt by artillery shelling.

The U.K. military said in its daily intelligence update that Ukrainian counterattacks in Sieverodonetsk were likely blunting the operational momentum Russian forces previously gained through concentrating combat units and firepower. Russian forces previously had been making a string of advances in the city, but Ukrainian fighters have pushed back in recent days.

The statement also said Russias military was partly relying on reserve forces of Luhansk separatists.

These troops are poorly equipped and trained, and lack heavy equipment in comparison to regular Russian units, the intelligence update said, adding that the move indicates a desire to limit casualties suffered by regular Russian forces.

Both sides in the conflict have been waging an information war, especially on television, along with military attacks. Russias Tass news agency reported Sunday that Ukrainian forces had knocked out broadcast TV service in Donetsk, where it said a broadcast tower had toppled. Ukrainian authorities did not immediately confirm the attack.

In the Azov Sea port of Mariupol, which Russia claimed to have captured in May following a brutal monthslong siege, a mayoral aide said water supplies contaminated by decomposing corpses and garbage were causing dysentery and posing a threat of cholera and other diseases.

In remarks carried by Ukraines Unian news agency, Petro Andriushchenko said Russian authorities controlling the city have imposed a quarantine. He did not describe what measures Russian authorities had included, and his report could not be independently confirmed.

World Health Organization officials warned last month about the threat of cholera and other infectious diseases in Mariupol.

Also Sunday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy traveled to the Zaporizhzhia region in the southeast, which is partly under Russian control. He received a battle report, thanked troops and met with refugees in what was only his second public visit outside the Kyiv area since the war began.

Far from the battlefield, Ukraines national soccer players missed out on qualifying for a World Cup spot, losing 1-0 to Wales in an emotionally charged match in Cardiff. Back home, some Ukrainians gathered in bars to watch the game.

___

Associated Press journalists David Keyton and Hanna Arhirova in Kyiv contributed to this report.

___

Follow APs coverage of the Ukraine war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine
TOKYO  Japanese adventurer Kenichi Horie at 83 just became the oldest person in the world to complete a solo, nonstop voyage across the Pacific Ocean  and he says he is still in the middle of my youth and not done yet.

Horie returned home as he crossed the Kii Strait off Japans western coast early Saturday, completing his trans-Pacific solo voyage in 69 days after leaving a yacht harbor in San Francisco in late March.

On Sunday, after spending the night on his 19-foot (6-meter) -long Suntory Mermaid III just off the coast, Horie was towed into his home port of Shin Nishinomiya, where he was cheered by local residents and supporters and banners that read: Welcome back, Mr. Kenichi Horie!

As he approached the harbor, Horie, standing in his boat, took off his white cap and waved. He got off the yacht, took off the cap again and bowed deeply on the pier before he was presented with bouquets of roses.

Thank you for waiting! said Horie, who appeared tanned and with his white hair longer than usual.

He carried a stock of medicine from San Francisco, he said, but only used eye drops and Band-Aids during his more than two months alone at sea.

That shows how healthy I am, Horie said. Im still in the middle of my youth.

He said he burned all my body and soul on the journey but says hes ready for more. I will keep up my work to be a late bloomer.

At a news conference at the yacht harbor later Sunday, he said becoming the oldest person to make the feat was a dream come true. It was my great joy to have been able to make a challenge as a real goal and safely achieve it, instead of just holding onto it as a dream.

I want to be a challenger as long as I live, he said.

It 1962, he became the first person in the world to successfully complete a solo nonstop voyage across the Pacific from Japan to San Francisco. Sixty years later, he traveled the opposite route.

This time, his preparation during the coronavirus pandemic was full of uncertainties involving vaccine requirements, testing and other logistics. It was like walking on thin ice, he said.

Soon after his departure from San Francisco, he was faced with a storm, but the weather gradually improved and he reached Hawaii in mid-April ahead of schedule.

He had some struggles toward the end with a few days of pushback from a strong tide. He wrote on his blog on Friday that he had succeeded but was exhausted, and he took a nap after feeling assured that his yacht was on the right track to the finish line.

Horie has completed other long-distance solo voyages, including sailing around the world in 1974. His latest expedition was the first since his 2008 solo nonstop voyage on a wave-powered boat from Hawaii to the Kii Strait.

Despite sailing on his own, technology such as ship tracking and communications allowed him to stay in touch with his family and other people throughout the journey. I imagine my next voyage would be even more fun, he said.
WASHINGTON  For some Afghans who were evacuated as their country fell to the Taliban last summer, the journey to the United States has stalled, and perhaps ended, at a sun-baked cluster of tents and temporary housing on an American base in the Balkans.

While more than 78,000 Afghans have arrived in the U.S. for resettlement since August, the future for those who have been flagged for additional security vetting and diverted to Camp Bondsteel, in the small nation of Kosovo, remains up in the air. The U.S. wont force the dozens there to return to Afghanistan, where they could face reprisals.

Their frustration is growing. Some Afghans at the base, which has been shrouded in secrecy, took the unusual step this week of staging a protest, holding up signs with messages such as we want justice, according to photos sent to The Associated Press.

They just keep repeating the same things, that it takes time and we must be patient, one of the Afghans, Muhammad Arif Sarwari, said in a text message from the base.

Their complaints open a window into an aspect of the evacuation and resettlement of Afghans that has gotten little attention because U.S. authorities, and the government of Kosovo, have been reluctant to say much about the people sent to Bondsteel.

The base houses a mix of adults and children, because some of the people who have so far failed to get a visa to the U.S. are traveling with family. Sarwari, a former senior intelligence official with the Afghan government, said there are about 45 people there, representing about 20 or so individual visa cases, after a flight to the U.S. left with 27 of the refugees on Wednesday.

The Biden administration wont provide details, but acknowledges that some of the evacuees did not make it through what it calls a a multi-layered, rigorous screening and vetting process and wont be permitted to enter the U.S.

While the vast majority of Afghan evacuees have been cleared through this process, the small number of individuals who have been denied are examples of the system working exactly as it should, the National Security Council said in a written statement.

In all, about 600 Afghans have passed through Bondsteel, according to the government of Kosovo, which initially authorized use of the base for evacuees for a year but recently agreed to extend that until August 2023.

Kosovo, which gained independence from Serbia in 2008 with U.S. support, has also provided little information about the Afghans at Bondsteel, citing the privacy of the refugees. Prime Minister Albin Kurti said in a statement that the government is proud of its role providing temporary shelter to them.

Afghans are housed in a section of Bondsteel called Camp Liya, named for an Afghan child handed to the U.S. Marines over a fence at the Hamid Karzai International Airport during the evacuation, according to a U.S. military publication.

It was the chaotic nature of that evacuation that led to the need for an overseas facility in the first place. As the Afghan government collapsed, thousands of people made it onto military transport planes with minimal screening before they arrived at one of several overseas transit points.

The people sent to Bondsteel were stopped and diverted for a host of reasons, including missing or flawed documents or security concerns that emerged during overseas vetting by the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security, officials have said.

At the same time, some in Congress have criticized the administration for what they say has been inadequate vetting of Afghan refugees.

Sarwari made it to Kuwait from Afghanistan in early September with his wife and two of his daughters and says he doesnt know why hes been held up. He was a prominent figure in Afghanistan, serving as the former director of intelligence after the U.S. invasion in 2001. Before that, he was a top official with the anti-Taliban Northern Alliance.

Both positions would make him a target of the Taliban if he were to return.

The vetting team keeps telling us sorry, Washington is just deciding some political issues, he said.

Sarwari has applied for a special immigrant visa, which is issued to people who worked for the U.S. government or its allies during the war. He has not received a response, according to his lawyer, Julie Sirrs.

In theory, he is free to leave but its not clear where he could go, Sirrs said. He obviously cannot return to Afghanistan. Hes clearly in danger if he returns.

He and others live a circumscribed existence on Bondsteel. Although technically not detained, they cannot leave the arid, rocky base and have spent months in tents, which were adorned with handwritten signs during this weeks protest. One said unfair decision, while another said children are suffering.

The Biden administration says authorities have determined that some  it wont say how many  simply cannot be allowed to enter the U.S. It is working to find other countries that dont harbor the same security concerns and are willing to accept them for resettlement. No one will be forcibly returned to Afghanistan, according to the NSC statement.

_____

Associated Press writer Llazar Semini in Tirana, Albania, contributed to this report.
BANGKOK, June 5 (Xinhua) -- The China-Laos-Thailand railway project will be a grand gateway that benefits people in Southeast Asia, former Thai Deputy Prime Minister Pinit Jarusombat told Xinhua in a recent interview.

The China-Laos railway, which started operation at the end of last year, has provided a new logistics option for Thailand's trade with China.

"It totally exceeded expectations," Pinit said, adding that despite the pandemic, the frequency of train service had to be increased several times due to the huge demand.

"The Sino-Thai railway is currently under construction and Thailand expects it to be operational very soon," Pinit said.

Once it is completed, a transportation corridor through all three countries will significantly increase the speed of movement of people and goods between Southeast Asia and China, he added.

Pinit is also optimistic about the development of cross-border railway logistics and the prospect of Thailand as a regional hub. Citing the example of Thai agricultural products exported to China, he highlighted that the China-Laos railway accelerates the transportation speed of chilled and frozen fruits and vegetables.

In addition to infrastructure construction, Pinit said the Belt and Road Initiative deserves praise for bringing investment and business opportunities to countries along the route.

According to him, an increasing number of Chinese companies have entered Thailand in various fields, such as durian planting, rubber businesses, as well as automobile, energy and high-tech industries.

"The Belt and Road Initiative has further promoted Chinese investment in Thailand and boosted the development of new models of cooperation between Chinese and Thai companies," Pinit said.

Referring to bilateral relations, Pinit, who has visited China dozens of times, said that the trade volume between the two countries has soared in the past decade, and the cooperation has been expanding with increasingly frequent contacts from the top governmental level to the private sector.

He mentioned that the Thai government attaches great importance to the development of the relationship with China, and both countries need to further strengthen cooperation in businesses, investment and tourism in the future.

Pinit spoke highly of the Global Development Initiative (GDI) proposed by China. He said the initiative is timely and visionary to help countries solve current challenges at a time when the world economy and livelihoods are being threatened by the pandemic.

Food security is also an urgent issue at the moment due to supply chain disruptions and geopolitical factors, Pinit said. He believes that the GDI can help countries reduce disputes and return to the track of dialogue. 
With the likelihood of a Republican tsunami at the midterms, some are already spinning wish lists of structural changes they hope will begin to take shape. Without wishing to rain on their -- or your -- parade, Id like to point out how deep by now the structural rot goes. Its beyond the collapse of academia and K-12 education, the evisceration of our military, government waste, the dysfunction of our health system, and the one-sidedness of media coverage. It goes to the very heart of our legal system.

This week Peter Navarro was charged by a D.C. grand jury for contempt of Congress for refusing to cooperate with the House Select Committee, a purely partisan confection of Nancy Pelosi in violation of all the traditional House rules, and a clear propaganda operation. (Mark Meadows and Dan Scavino, Jr. cooperated to some extent and were spared. The committee also referred them for prosecution, but the Department of Justice declined to prosecute them.)

The charge against Navarro is a misdemeanor process crime but with significant possible consequences.

Instead of following the normal procedure in such cases of notifying the person charged and allowing them to report for processing, the FBI affected to humiliate him, arrested him as he was boarding a plane, publicly handcuffing him and placing him in leg irons.

Power Line reminds us how Attorney General Eric Holder was treated when Congress held him in contempt:

And, of course, you remember when the FBI arrested Holder and put him in leg irons on the same charge that is being brought against Navarro. No, wait Navarro told the court today that he would represent himself rather than hiring a lawyer. But the biggest problem he faces is not the absence of counsel, it is the fact that his case will go before a jury of D.C. Democrats.

It's not just the Department of Justice thats corrupted, its big law firms as well. Let me explain.

The leaking of the Alito draft memo in which a majority (in draft form) overturned Roe v. Wade was shocking, a breach of the confidentiality rules on court deliberations, a sound policy that has existed as long as memory. Chief Justice John Roberts has initiated an investigation and, initially, there was considerable discussion of the consequences to the leaker. The NY Post is one example of the debate on the legality of the leak. No clear criminal law seemed to cover it, and the most likely crimes it was suggested would be false statements to a federal investigator or hacking if thats how it is determined the leak occurred:

George Washington University law professor Jonathan Turley called the leak such a serious and malicious act that it could warrant prosecution but said he was leery of stretching the criminal code to build a case. I believe that the strongest case for prosecution would likely be for false statements to a federal investigator, he said. Its concerning the document that belongs to the Supreme Court was placed in the hands of someone else without authorization. I am assuming investigators are likely to speak to most of the relatively small group of people with access to the draft opinion, including the culprit. If [the probe] later finds incriminating evidence, a denial on first contact can be used as the basis for a charge. Alitos draft was distributed to all of his fellow justices, whose clerks sign pledges of confidentiality as part of their one-year jobs, The Associated Press said. About 70 people might ordinarily have seen Alitos draft, AP said. UCLA law professor Adam Winkler said that although leaking the draft would not violate any law in and of itself, the way it was obtained may have been illegal. It could have been hacked, he said. If thats how it came out, that is a federal crime.

Of course, if a crime did occur it would have to be prosecuted by the Department of Justice and heard in a D.C. court. Probably before a judge who wouldnt find it reasonable to strike from the jury panel officers of Planned Parenthood or NARAL and the partner of the leaker.

The next line of argument respecting the punishment for the leaker is that, if it were a law clerk, his/her career is finished. Not so fast, the Washington Free Beacon cautions.

The paper contacted partners and staff at six of D.C.s top law firms known for regularly hiring Supreme Court clerks. Every single one declined to condemn the breach or to say whether they would hire the leaker.

The steely silence approach to the unprecedented leak highlights growing tension in elite law firms between their white-collar pedigree and increasing left-wing staff. While top firms must maintain their prestige and credibility with the courts and their corporate clients, theyre increasingly populated by a new class of young, left-wing lawyers who view those very entities as harmful and oppressive, The strain is driving a new dynamic in which woke lawyers are given a free hand to set DEI [Diversity Equity Inclusion] policies or take on progressive causes pro bono, while the firms high-dollar commercial work goes on unabated.

Several firm offices are hosting drag queen bingo, one partner told the Beacon. Another former lawyer at one of those firms said leftist attorneys are seizing perches on diversity and governance committees, where they can influence DEI programming and leftwing pro bono work with support from aligned partners.

The more hiring decisions are based on DEI instead of demonstrated competence and character, the more left-wing the firms will become.

And, dont count on corporate clients to put a brake on this. In fact, many are supporting and encouraging it. Corporations in particular screen firms based on diversity and ideological considerations, such as whether theyve represented Trump businesses or the former president himself.

Of course, with all this pro bono work, to my knowledge, not a single such firm has represented the January 6 defendants rotting for months in D.C. jails in obvious violation of their civil rights. Youd think those regarded as officers of the court would consider standing up for fair treatment according to the law would do so.

These firms do, however, provide big donations to Democrats -- about $61 million to Democrats and left-wing causes during the Trump era, compared with just $11 million for Republicans.

It will be a lot longer and harder to turn the country around than you might otherwise imagine.
The Second Amendment is again being scrutinized as the recurrent gun control/gun rights debate heats up. Gun control advocates emphasize the words "well-regulated militia," and gun rightssupporters highlight "shall not be infringed." The significant meaning and philosophical foundation of the amendment, however, is found in a phrase that gets relatively little attention: "necessary to the security of a free State."

A free state implies necessary restraints on the armed agencies of government that are vested with the authority to use force. These restraints lessen the risk that such entities will become agents of tyranny, but they also impede their ability to defend the lives and safety of individual citizens. Unless the people are willing to accommodate an oppressive and intrusive police presence in the interest of "public safety," the citizens of a free state (i.e., one in which government force is restrained in the interest of individual liberties) must be allowed the right and means to provide their own defense. The idea of a free state is incompatible with the degree of surveillance, control, and intrusiveness necessary for police agencies to provide the elusive and illusory security that forms the basis of gun control appeals. Onerous restrictions on the ability of citizens to defend themselves against violence and criminal threats are hallmarks of authoritarianism, and authoritarianism is incompatible with a free State.

A central inconsistency at the center of progressive thought is the manner in which it regards trade-offs inherent in its agenda. The progressive is only willing to consider cherry-picked and ideologically favorable consequences in formulating his worldview. These ideology-compatible consequences often infringe the rights of others, but the progressive ideologue refuses to acknowledge that human reality cares little for this selective, naive, and reckless dismissal of consequences. Examples of such inconsistency abound: we can give up fossil fuels without the elite having to sacrifice their private jets or standards of living; universities can replace rigorous intellectual inquiry with woke pieties without impairing graduates' readiness to contribute meaningfully to society; we can accommodate drug use and untreated mental illness without incurring increased crime, homelessness, and drug-related deaths. The progressive sees those as tradeoffs to be borne by others, and therefore not worth considering.

Nowhere is this penchant for selective consideration and disregard of consequences more apparent than in appeals to "safety." Safetyism is a pernicious doctrine that ultimately impedes the ability of a free society to function and survive. Consider, for example, the number of times during the COVID pandemic that officials of various sorts and competencies assured us that "the health and safety of [someone or other] is our top priority," or that everyday life and economic activity were disrupted "out of an abundance of caution." Now imagine that the chief of the Uvalde School District's police had stood behind a podium and said, "The health and safety of my officers is my highest priority," or "We did not attempt to enter the school out of an abundance of caution." Such an admission would strike the average person as odd, and perhaps evoke protests, yet it appears that it would be close to the actual scenario. When safety becomes an obsession, it paradoxically becomes a peril. Caution is like Tylenol: helpful in small doses, toxic in large ones.

The progressive is perfectly content to trade off the liberty of others (which he often finds distasteful, if not outright threatening) for what he claims will be safety. This was the mantra and rationale of COVID policy, presented merely as assertion and upon which reasoned debate was not allowed. But this supposed tradeoff is based on a fallacy. There are limits to what can be done with policy, laws, and restrictions of liberty. Safety is not totally within the ability of the government to control, for the simple reason that risk is inherent to human existence and human flourishing. Policy cannot fix everything. Not every social issue or peril has a single cause that will respond neatly and with surgical precision to the showboating and pandering of our current political class. One need only look at the growing raft of policy failures in dealing with fentanyl overdoses, the proliferation of gang violence, and noticeable increases in mental health crises and social discord. At a certain point, one is not trading off freedom for safety, but rather trading it off for increases in misery, capricious authoritarianism, corruption, and loss of respect for basic human dignity.

Safety, to the extent that it can be had by sacrificing freedom at all, is only temporary once freedom and liberty have been diminished. It is not a coincidence that the Reign of Terror during the French Revolution was carried out by the Committee of Public Safety.

The founders of the country and drafters of the Constitution knew that not only would we occasionally have to suffer scoundrels, doofuses, and demagogues in positions of power, but human nature is a stubborn thing. They understood that concentrated authority and policies of repression, even if they did initially appear to achieve their stated purpose, would over time be abused, with disastrous results. The temptation to overreach, to expand the regime of authoritarianism and repression for partisan ends, is irresistible to the craven, mediocre, and dishonest professional politicians whose view of public good begins and ends with their own interest.

The drafters of the Second Amendment understood these things, and that is why they codified liberties within the Constitution. They did so because they knew that occasionally, corrupt, stupid, and incompetent people would hold temporary positions of authority in government. They wrote the Second Amendment not because they necessarily liked guns, but because they knew what tradeoffs were necessary to a free state, and that political fads are sometimes hostile to it.

Image via Pixy.
"We can't build our way out of this!" is the common, knee-jerk response to the question of overcrowding in Nebraska's state prison system. Although rarely accompanied with evidence, that statement is nonetheless parroted reflexively.

There has been little pushback against that opinion over the years, with many citizens assuming the statement must be founded on "settled science," or some form of proven academic study and research.

It isn't.

Academia has examined nearly every possible aspect of incarceration, crafting deep demographic profiles of prison populations based on every conceivable data point, but have inexplicably avoided diving into the most obvious metric affecting prison overcrowding: how many prison beds per capita should a state have?

Surely there must be a reasonably prudent level of capacity for housing convicted criminals in a state  a measure that presumably would take into account population size, as prison capacity is directly upstream from prison overcrowding.

Don't misunderstand me. It's not as if the subject hasn't come up. Policymakers have approached this question repeatedly over the last century, with increasing intensity in the last forty years.

However, the question of how much prison capacity is optimal is never discussed alone. It is always tied to larger questions regarding the justice system as a whole, and even then, the question is never directly answered  simply glossed over as some archaic silliness too brutal and obtuse for discussion among enlightened folk.

In the 2009 "Jail Capacity Planning Guide: A Systems Approach," the preface tells us:

Focusing on managing risk and improving outcomes shifts the nature of jail planning. It challenges decisionmakers to think about custody resources as a continuum of choices, not as a single option that leads only to housing inmates in a facility. It asks decisionmakers to view jail as a gateway to individual change, not an endpoint. It calls upon them to plan as much for programs as they do for beds.

The remaining 87 pages address programs, without addressing beds, perfectly illustrating the dearth of information regarding our original question: how many prison beds per capita should a state have?

These two elements  planning for capacity needs and devising ways to reduce the magnitude of those needs  are purposely interwoven, as if neither can be examined alone, leading to a conflation of concepts that are more prudently examined separately. The former is a function of hard calculation, while the latter is grist for navel-gazing theorists eager to attempt the reordering of society into neat conforming rows.

Nebraska has a prison overcrowding problem. We have more inmates than we have places to house them. Is this due to Nebraska running a criminal justice system shot through with prejudice, unequal sentencing, and a mustache-twirling desire to "lock 'em up"?

The answer is no.

While every system of man's creation is vulnerable to the influence of our human failings, there simply aren't enough instances of unjust treatment to account for the excess numbers of prisoners above our functional capacity. We have more prisoners because we have more crimes committed, and the offenders are staying a bit longer as guests of the state than in previous years, due to the increased severity of their crimes.

The drug crimes of today are more deadly than those of even a decade ago. The liberal shibboleth of a man with a joint spending years behind bars is as outdated as bellbottom jeans and flowers in your hair. Minor possession charges for drugs are now routinely resolved on probation, with the offender seeing no time behind bars.

However, the danger of illicit drugs has skyrocketed, with substances like fentanyl now dominating the market position once held by less addictive and less powerful drugs, necessitating incarceration commensurate with the severity of the crime.

Programs like the Justice Reinvestment Initiative (JRI), a joint venture between the Department of Justice and the Pew Charitable Trusts, have become trendy vehicles for conflating the problems of overcrowding with all manner of academic social engineering constructs designed to lower sentences and increase prison releases.

Nebraska was one of nearly 40 states to undergo the JRI process, with our state launching the effort in 2015. We were promised dramatic reductions in both prison overcrowding and recidivism rates, based on JRI's "data-driven" analysis and proposals.

Despite having followed their prescription for penal health, Nebraska never saw the promised reductions in the prison population, with the program falling short of its own projections by ludicrous margins.

Indeed, every metric the program measured has failed to meet expectations, with most failing spectacularly. The JRI process projected a reduction in the prison population of 1,000 inmates. We achieved a reduction of only 68, many of which would've gotten out anyway with their sentences served.

We were not alone. The record of JRI failure carries across all states unfortunate enough to have engaged in the effort.

This year, the JRI hucksters returned, peddling the same ineffectual babble, based on the same disproven theories as the last go-round. Fortunately, a sufficient majority of state senators astutely recognized the initiative for what it is: a brazen political tool to implement threadbare soft-on-crime progressivist policies costumed as the latest research.

A measure before the Legislature to re-enter the Justice Reinvestment Initiative in Nebraska failed, and the state is better for it. But the defeat of a bad idea isn't enough. The status quo in Nebraska's prisons (the most overcrowded in the nation) cannot continue much longer.

We have more than 5,300 inmates housed in a system with a designed capacity of 3,700. Design capacity is the number set by the architect when the prison was built.

The most common measure used to gauge overcrowding is operational capacity, which for Nebraska is 4,419, representing the number of inmates who can be held based on available staffing and services. Our problem stems from our failure to increase prison capacity to match our population growth. Let's examine further.

Returning to those 35 states who have participated in JRI, we find they have, on average, 1 prison bed for every 285 people. Nationally, the average is 1 for every 323.

In Nebraska, with a total population of 1.9 million people, we have 1 prison bed for every 443 people, ranking fifth-worst in per capita capacity among the 35 JRI states, and the eleventh worst nationally.

Nebraska currently houses 5,322 prisoners, well above both design and operational capacities.

To pull ourselves up to the lofty goal of "average," we need to increase our prison capacity to 6,000 from its current operational capacity of 4,419. Again, these additional 1,581 beds would only bring us up to the national average, but, by just attaining average, we would solve our overcrowding problem, with several hundred beds left over.

If we aimed to stand on par with the other JRI states, we would need about 2,500 more beds than we have today.

Our rallying cry must now be "We want average! We want average!"

The issue of overcrowding stands apart from the idea of reimagining our justice system. To paraphrase the no-build advocates' favorite phrase, I would say, "We can't release, parole, or resentence our way out of this."

We have offenders. We have recidivism. We have hardened criminals who are unaffected by "rehabilitation programming."

What we don't have are enough places to put them, which really is the first duty of our system  to ensure the public is safe from criminality, an obligation that must come ahead of social engineering experimentation involving inmates and, by extension, the unsuspecting public, who suffer when those inmates' needs are placed ahead of the public's need for safety, and they are released too soon only to re-offend.

We can address both issues without holding one hostage to the other. We can bring our per capita prison capacity up to "average" without solving all the ills of society first.

Study all you want, theorize to your hearts' content, but quit telling us we have a social problem that must be solved before we address our glaring housing problem.

Returning to the statement "We can't build our way out of this!" the proper response clearly is "Yes, we can, and we must."

The author is chief investigative reporter for Nebraska Sunrise News and writes from Omaha, Nebraska. He welcomes visitors to his personal website, www.dailyherring.com.

Image via Pxhere.
After every mass shooting (particularly the vast majority upon which white supremacy cannot be blamed), leftists renew demands to repeal the Second Amendment as part of their Do Something!!! campaign and this past months evil in Uvalde was no exception.

Discussing gun control options with the eunuch class members of the press, President Biden quipped, You couldnt buy a cannon when the Second Amendment was passed. You couldnt go out and purchase a lot of weaponry. He continued: It makes no sense to be able to purchase something that can fire up to 300 rounds. The idea of these high caliber weapons  theres simply no rational basis for it in terms of, about self-protection, hunting  and, remember, the Constitution, the Second Amendment was never absolute.

In four sentences he told five lies, which is impressive even for him. But these five lies are central to the anti-gun argument, so Ill briefly expound:

You couldnt buy a cannon Actually, you could. In both the absence of a standing army, and in the war against the British, private American militias procured cannons at their own expense.

You couldnt go out and purchase a lot of weaponry. Actually, you could. There were never any colonial laws limiting the number of guns or the amount of ammunition you could purchase.

It makes no sense to be able to purchase something that can fire up to 300 rounds. This would be news to gun owners, as no ammunition magazine holds anywhere near that amount. The standard magazine capacity for an AR-15 is thirty rounds.

theres simply no rational basis for it in terms of, about self-protection, hunting The Second Amendment offers no such basis. The purpose of the Second Amendment isnt for self-protection or for hunting. The purpose of the Second Amendment is in its being necessary to the security of a free State. And for that purpose, there is an overwhelming rational basis, of which Joe Biden is Exhibit One.

the Constitution, the Second Amendment was never absolute. Actually, it is. Amendments can be overturned, and Biden is free to try. But until then, the Constitution and its amendments are not subject to change at the whim of the mob. They are the absolute foundation from which all our laws derive. Thats the whole point.

Joe Biden has never needed to own a gun for self-protection or otherwise, seeing as he was able to defang the mighty Corn Pop utilizing nothing but the ol Scranton One-Two. But for the sake of argument, lets assume that Biden is able to either 1) get the Second Amendment overturned or, 2) forum shop to get an anti-gun ruling by a favorable court, appellate court, or the Supreme Court. This would all no doubt be conducted in the name of public safety, or protecting our children, etc. The Constitution and its Amendments, we are told, are ossified relics of white supremacy.

But if thats the case, why stop there? In the interests of protecting our children, why not re-imagine, as they say, additional amendments? As these mass shooters are attempting to create as much carnage as possible publicity, why not deny them this by revoking the freedom of the press under the First Amendment? How many children would be protected by criminalizing the publication of any information about mass shooters, their backgrounds, their motives, their manifestos, indeed even any information about the crime itself? How many would-be mass shooters would be dissuaded by the knowledge that the world will never know what they did?

If only our nation had a free and independent press, you can imagine the howls of outrage such a move would elicit. But whats more important to the court jesters at CNN and MSNBC? Smearing their juicy school shooter stories across their screens? Or protecting the children? If protecting the children takes precedence over the Second Amendment, shouldnt it also take precedence over the First Amendment?

How about the Fourth Amendment, which protects people from unreasonable searches and seizures, and requires a warrant for searches of homes? Well, what is unreasonable? If our goal is to protect the children, wouldnt any search be reasonable? Imagine if police had the authority to enter the homes and cars of known gang members and criminals, at any time and without warning, to conduct random weapons searches. How many children and other innocents would be alive today in Chicago, New York, Detroit, etc. if we jettisoned the Fourth Amendment and gave them this authority? And if you oppose this, does this mean you hate children? Especially children of color, who fall victim to gang violence more than children of, er, non-color? Are you complicit in their murders? Whats more important to you, the antiquated relic of English law known as a warrant, or protecting the children?

Rational Americans, both left and right, can agree that the legal system is broken (albeit for different reasons). Can our current deadlock not be traced back to the Bill of Rights? The Fifth Amendment guarantees due process. The Sixth Amendment guarantees the right of the accused to counsel. The Seventh Amendment guarantees a right to trial by jury. These Amendments form the legal standards upon which the State is burdened and are intentionally difficult to overcome, and are a reflection of the idea that it would be better to potentially let criminals free than it would be to wrongly imprison a single innocent person.

But these Amendments prioritize the individual over the overall safety of the collective. And if the Left wants to reverse this prioritization, does it not stand to reason that these amendments are obsolete inhibitors to a better society? Why should the accused have so many safeguards? The truly innocent, if indeed they be of noble and woke character, will gladly accept the burden of proving their bona fidesjust like they do in corporate anti-racism workshops, in public schools, and on Twitter. And if a few innocents do get imprisoned with the criminals? Meh. To paraphrase the New York Timess Walter Durantys defense of the Ukrainian genocide, you cant make an omelet without breaking a few eggs. Whats more important? The fate of a few so-called innocents, or protecting the children?

What about the Eighth Amendment, which protects against both excessive bail and against cruel and unusual punishment? Many leftist DAs are trying to eliminate bail altogether. But in the interests of public safety and protecting the children, shouldnt we instead push for excessive bail? And why not inflict cruel and unusual punishment? If you apply the punishment a certain number of times, it ceases to be unusual and becomes usual. And wouldnt so-called cruel punishment, if applied unsparingly and uniformly to every violent criminal, not deter others? If criminals realized that their crimes would be answered not by the usual slap on the wrist, but by being drawn and quartered in a public square, would this not drastically reduce crime? Is not public safety and protecting the children worth it?

For those who actually believe that passing anti-gun legislation will protect the children, the inevitable conclusion will be the dissolution of the Bill of Rights. Because if you overturn the Second Amendment, how do you force people to turn in their guns? The other aforementioned Amendments will require overturning in order to confiscate guns in the numbers sufficient to actually lower gun violence and to inflict punishments severe enough to deter those who might otherwise have continued to resist.

Leftists would undoubtedly be fine with this (indeed, for the honest ones, this is their stated goal), so long as the victims are only gun-owning conservatives. But once the drug dealers dens start getting raided at will, without warrants, expect fierce opposition from the Left. Likewise, when the weapons are confiscated, without due process, from the inner city gangbangers rather than the law-abiding citizenry, prepare for legal loopholes to be created for underprivileged and underserved communities. When its the Antifa terrorists, rather than the unarmed January 6 rioters, who are given excessive bail, expect more outrage, more riots, and more arson. When Hillarys lawyers face legal judgment based on actual, clear-cut evidence of lying to the FBI, rather than on the prejudicial feelings of a corrupt D.C. jury, expect an increase in the backroom wheeling and dealing in order to further insulate the impenetrability of our ruling class overlords.

Despite their incessant jabbering about the structural racism of the Constitution, leftists have no intention of scrapping any Amendments other than the Second (at least not without reworded protections for their own shock troops). This is because their exclusive goal is the complete centralization of tyrannical power, the helm of which they feel theyre entitled to commandeer. It is not, never was, and never will be about protecting the children.

Image: Pixabay / Pixabay License
KABUL, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Da Afghanistan Bank (DAB), the central bank of Afghanistan, welcomed the approval of 793-million-U.S. dollar projects by the World Bank, the DAB said on Sunday.

On Friday, the Afghanistan Reconstruction Trust Fund Management Committee and the World Bank approved the projects that will provide urgent and essential food, livelihood, and health services to the people of Afghanistan, according to the World Bank.

The projects will be implemented through United Nations agencies and non-governmental organizations.

The DAB appreciates humanitarian assistance from the international community for Afghanistan, and calls for more cooperation in the field, according to a DAB statement.

More than 22 million Afghans out of some 35 million of the country's population are facing acute food shortages and the war-torn country would face humanitarian catastrophe if not assisted, according to aid agencies' reports. 
As a Christian, I am called to love everyone. Christians are expected to love both friends and enemies alike without exception. Hatred of anyone for any reason is a violation of what Christians are called to do by God.

There are numerous verses throughout the Bible, which included the Tanakh (the Jewish Bible or Old Testament), requiring the love of everyone. Not once does it say hatred is allowed for a single person or group. Hatred of sin is allowed, so long as it does not reach the point of hating the sinner.

Luke 6:35-36 says this:

But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.

There are no exceptions following the commandment to love. It is simply a requirement to love everyone. To not love someone or some group is not following Gods will for Christians.

The command for Christians to love is unconditional for the whole of humanity and is rooted in Judaism, as are all things Christian.

Leviticus or Vayikra in the Jewish Bible, Chapter 19, Verse 18 states:

You shall neither take revenge from nor bear a grudge against the members of your people; you shall love your neighbor as yourself. I am the Lord.

There are Christians who do hate someone else or some other group, which is a clear violation of Gods will for Christians. They may hate other Christians for not being the right type of Christian, other religions, or those with no religion of any kind. They may hate politicians, members of various political groups, or people who live in other countries, like Israel.

None of the hatred that exists comes from God. Whatever the target of hate might be, it is in clear violation of Gods will for Christians.

Despite being commanded to love, Christians remain quite human. We concede to darker impulses that do not come from God. Those darker impulses are absent of reason because there is nothing reasonable about defying God.

Any Christian who hates can make the choice to stop hating any time they choose, since hatred is a sin, and like all sins, can be given up with Gods help. There has to be the desire to let go of the darker impulses and embrace God.

Hillel the Elder was in Jerusalem about the same time Rabbi Yeshua, Jesus, was in Jerusalem and surrounding areas. Rabbi Yeshua would have been familiar with Hillel and possibly even met this great man. His words continue to influence the Jewish people to this day.

The Jewish Virtual Library contains a small sample of quotes, with this one from the Babylonian Talmud, Shabbat 31a:

Once there was a gentile who came before Shammai, and said to him: Convert me on the condition that you teach me the whole Torah while I stand on one foot. Shammai pushed him aside with the measuring stick he was holding. The same fellow came before Hillel, and Hillel converted him, saying: That which is despicable to you, do not do to your fellow, this is the whole Torah, and the rest is commentary, go and learn it.

It does sum up the whole of Torah, which is the first five books in the Tanakh. The sentiment includes love for humanity because one does not treat someone despicably unless they lack love.

The same could be said for the whole of Christianity. As a Christian, I love the whole of humanity. It is not always easy, but do what I am commanded to do by God.

For those Christians who hate, remember the words from John 15:13, Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

It was an act of love, not hate.

Hatred is not an easy thing to give up. It is a strong temptation. Like all strong temptations, it can be fought by choosing to love even your greatest enemies.

To love everyone is the commandment given to all Christians by God without exception.

Bob Ryan is a writer who has an MBA. He is an American Christian Zionist who staunchly supports Israel's right to exist as a Jewish state. He has been a weekly blogger at the Times of Israel since 2019.
With Biden in office, Americas southern border has vanished entirely. Illegal aliens crossed the border over 1.6 million times in 2021 and, this year, theyre going to break that record, given that theyre marching across the border at the rate of around 200,000 per month (a number that may increase if Biden gets rid of the Title 42 health restriction). Once here, if the illegal aliens are caught, the government feeds them, clothes them, gives them free baby formula (if they need it), and ships them across the country to wherever they want to go. But believe it or not, were the lucky ones. Whats happening in Europe and, especially, in England is infinitely worse.

Paul Joseph Watson has put together a video that uses the plight of one small village as its starting point to explain Englands invasionsomething done with the governments complicity. Linton-on-Ouse, in North Yorkshire, has about 700 residents. Its just received word from the British home office that it will be receiving 1,500 North African migrants. That is, 1,500 foreign Muslims, most of them men.

I had the pleasure of living in Yorkshire for a year as an exchange student in the very early 1980s. Although Id originally dreamed of Oxford or Cambridge, I realized once Id arrived in England how lucky I was to be sent north. Oxbridge was already very international and, while it looked like the England of old, it didnt necessarily feel like that. Yorkshire, however, was English. The people living there had lived there for generations, some with roots stretching back centuries. It was an exchange students dream.

Image: European illegal aliens. Rumble screen grab.

Since then, however, England opened her borders, beginning with central Europeans, Saudis, Bangladeshis, and Pakistanis. Even before 2015, when Angela Merkel opened Europe and England to an unlimited number of Muslim economic refugees from North Africa and the Middle East, Yorkshire, once the most English of counties, was home to the fourth highest Muslim population in England. For example, by 2016, in Dewsbury, Yorkshire, the Savile Town community was made up almost entirely of Muslims, many of whom never had contact with native Britons and all of whom lived entirely under Sharia law within England.

In the early 2000s, a friend told me that Yorkshire was very attractive to Muslim immigrants because it had a higher Jewish population than other regions in England. The new immigrants didnt want to live with the Jews. They wanted to oust them by buying property in Jewish communities and making life so unpleasant for the Jewish residents, many of them with deep roots in Yorkshire, that they had to leave. (You can read more about the Islamification of Yorkshire here).

It's not just Jews who are affected when theres mass Muslim immigration. Muslim men view white, non-Muslim women as prostitutes and have operated vast grooming gangs across England, especially in the north. Theyve been aided in this by the fact that, as in America, the family unit in England has broken down. This means that there are thousands of emotionally broken girls whove never had a loving father to build up their self-worth and who have no male family members to protect them.

So, while we in America are getting a fair number of sex traffickers; mountains of fentanyl; low skilled, illegal workers who drive down wages; and more welfare mouths to feed, the Latin Americans who come here mostly want to work and mostly hew to traditional western, Christian values. The same cannot be said for the North African and Middle Eastern Muslim men who are pouring into England and Western Europe.
A class action against the climate changistas for the huge economic damage they have caused is doable. Not only is it doable, but were doing the groundwork to make it happen.

In several articles at American Thinker, Ive proposed class action lawsuits against those who have used IPCC modeling as the basis to replace fossil fuels with renewable energy. The IPCC and its supporters say replacing fossil fuels is necessary by 2050 to save the planet and humankind from total destruction due to rising temperatures.

The proponents of this climate change action include federal, state, and local entities; universities; K-12 schools; the media; foundations; non-profit green activist entities; Hollywood; numerous pension funds; and many corporations. To end their demands for action, a case needs to be filed in a court of law challenging whether the anthropogenic climate change that the IPCC alleges will destroy life on earth is scientifically proven.

The case would force specifically targeted IPCC proponents to prove (instead of simply assert) that IPCC modeling proves that rising world temperatures, however defined, will destroy the planet and human life, unless fossil fuels are banned and replaced with renewable fuels? If the Climate Change Agenda is shown to be unsubstantiated, the court could determine what damages flowed from a specific defendants pursuit of that agenda.

What damages can be claimed? The present energy economy took 100 years to assemble. It is quite complex. The very idea of creating a new energy economy willy-nilly within a few decades is ludicrous. The damages are related to the destruction of businesses, industries, and associated jobs, not to mention implementing centralized control from DC and like. So, we are talking about freedom, markets and, basically, a complete transformation of America into a country that is no longer recognizable. The damages in dollars and freedom are astronomical.

Image: Justice in the balance by freepik.

Many different lawsuits are viable, but the initial lawsuit needs to be supported by the best science, data, and lawyers. This means an initial monetary commitment on the order of several million dollars. In some controversial court cases, the parties end up spending several million dollars.

The buildup to the lawsuit requires an extensive PR campaign. How to mount such a campaign? Billboards might be a starting point. Powerful billboards might have the following messages: Fossil fuels have raised incomes around the world and reduced poverty for billions of people. Rich countries help the environment. Poor countries hinder the environment. Markets and fossil fuels will save the planet. If you want to save the children, back fossil fuels. The Green Agenda is racist because it seeks to reduce economic growth in Africa and non-white countries in general.

I dont know what the best brief slogan to promote is. Advertisers do!! Focus groups and so forth can be worked up. And at least for now, as long as Musks offer to purchase is still out there, theres the possibility of real free speech on Twitter.

Fossil energy and markets have had an enormous impact on reducing poverty around the world and should continue to do so. Renewables and the collectivist Green Agenda have pushed the world in the opposite direction. Environmental advancement is driven by countries becoming richer, not by keeping countries poor. In effect, we believe that science will not support the IPCC and the green activist clamor. Clearly, fossil fuels and markets support the best interests of the world now and in the future.

If youre interested in participating in any way in this effort, send an email to FossilFuelsSaveThePlanet.

Christopher Garbacz is a former professor of economics. Contact: cgarbo@protonmail.com.

Correction: The site for emailing is not yet set up. It's currently a work in progress.
(ANSA) - ROME, JUN 1 - Mustafa, the six-year-old limbless Syrian boy who has been given refuge in Italy along with the rest of his family, on Wednesday visited Budrio, in the province of Bologna, ahead of a move to the town later in the year for treatment at a specialist centre.

Mustafa was born without arms and legs due to a malformation caused by the medicines his mother took after she was the victim of a nerve-gas attack during the civil war in Syria.

He was accompanied by his father Munzir, who lost a leg in bomb attack.

The family, which also includes Mustafa's two sisters, have been staying at a centre run by Catholic charity Caritas since January.

In September they will move to Budrio for treatment at a special prothesis centre. (ANSA).


An 83-year-old Japanese adventurer has become the oldest person in the world to complete a solo, non-stop voyage across the Pacific Ocean  and said he is still in the middle of my youth and not done yet.

Kenichi Horie crossed the Kii Strait off Japans western coast early on Saturday, completing his trans-Pacific solo voyage in 69 days after leaving a yacht harbour in San Francisco in late March.

On Sunday, after spending the night on his 19ft (5.8m), 2,182lb (990kg) Suntory Mermaid III just off the coast, he was towed into his home port of Shin Nishinomiya, where he was cheered by local residents and supporters, some holding banners that read: Welcome back, Mr Kenichi Horie!

Japanese adventurer Kenichi Horie successfully completed his solo, non-stop voyage across the Pacific in 69 days, becoming the oldest person to reach the milestone (Kyodo New/AP)

As he approached the harbour, Mr Horie, standing in his boat, took off his white cap and waved. Then he got off the boat, took the cap off again and bowed deeply on the pier before he was presented with bouquets of roses.

Thank you for waiting! said the elderly sailor, tanned and with his white hair longer than usual.

He carried a stock of medicine from San Francisco, he said, but only used eye drops and plasters during his more than two months alone at sea.

That shows how healthy I am, he said. Im still in the middle of my youth.

He said he burned all my body and soul on the journey but that he is ready for more.

I will keep up my work to be a late bloomer, he said.

It was the latest record-setting achievement for the octogenarian adventurer, who in 1962 became the first person in the world to successfully complete a solo non-stop voyage across the Pacific from Japan to San Francisco.

Kenichi Horie celebrated his achievement in Nishinomiya, western Japan (Ichiro Sakano/Kyodo News/AP)

Sixty years later, he travelled the route in the opposite direction.

Soon after his departure from San Francisco, he was faced with a storm, but the weather gradually improved and he reached Hawaii in mid-April, ahead of schedule.

He had some struggles toward the end with a few days of pushback from a strong tide.

He wrote on his blog on Friday that he had succeeded but was exhausted, and he took a nap after feeling assured that his yacht was on the right track to the finish line.

Mr Horie has completed other long-distance solo voyages, including sailing around the world in 1974. His latest expedition was the first since his 2008 solo non-stop voyage on a wave-powered boat from Hawaii to the Kii Strait.
Police have launched a murder investigation into the death of a 47-year-old woman in Sheffield.

Officers found the woman seriously injured at an address on Cromford Street at around 3.10am on Sunday, South Yorkshire Police said in a statement.

The woman was take to hospital where she was pronounced dead just over an hour later.

A 43-year-old man from Sheffield has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody.

Police have appealed for anyone with any information to contact them online, through live chat, or by calling 101.

The incident number to quote is 151 of 5 June 2022.
London Underground is advising people not to travel on Monday because of a strike by thousands of workers in a dispute over jobs and pensions.

Members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) will walk out for 24 hours, crippling Tube services across the capital.

Transport for London (TfL) said some train services will run but it expects severe disruption across the network from the start of service on Monday to 8am on Tuesday.

Many stations, especially those in central and south London, will be closed, while stations that can be opened may only operate for limited periods.

Other TfL services, including DLR, London Overground and Trams, are not affected by the industrial action and will be running but will be busier

TfL said no proposals have been tabled on pensions or terms and conditions, and nobody will lose their jobs because of the proposals it has set out.

As part of previous funding agreements, the Government has required TfL to work towards achieving financial sustainability on its operations by April 2023.

TfL has proposed not recruiting into around 500 to 600 posts as they become vacant.

Andy Lord, TfLs chief operating officer, said: Id like to apologise to London for the impact this strike will have on journeys tomorrow and on Tuesday morning.

We know its going to be damaging to London and the economy at a time when public transport is playing a crucial role in the capitals recovery.

While our focus is always on helping everyone travel around London whenever they want, the expected impact of the RMTs action means we have to advise people to only travel tomorrow if necessary, as many stations may be closed.

Alternatives to the Tube, including the bus and rail networks, are likely to be much busier than usual and we expect the severe disruption caused by this strike to continue into the morning of Tuesday 7 June.

No changes have been proposed to pensions and nobody has or will lose their job as a result of the proposals we have set out. My message to the RMT is this  its not too late to call off tomorrows strike action.

Working with us to find a resolution is the best course of action, avoiding the disruption this strike will cause to Londoners and the economy.

The RMT said that under current proposals, 600 jobs will be lost, working agreements will be torn up and the looming threat to pensions remains in place.

General secretary Mick Lynch said: We are demanding a direct face-to-face meeting with Mayor Sadiq Khan to sort this mess out.

Theres no point in our union continuing to sit opposite management representatives who have neither the inclination nor the authority to negotiate a settlement, when the power lies with the Mayor.

Richard Burge, chief executive of the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said: We are extremely disappointed that the RMT has called for a mass walkout by TfL workers in such close proximity to the Queens Jubilee Weekend when London will be full of visitors.

The last two years hit London disproportionately hard and the capital is desperately trying to claw back some sense of normality after a tumultuous two years.

This strike now puts TfL in a position of having to recommend that Londoners work from home.

Ultimately, this will only harm Londons economy and it is time for TfL to sort out their dispute with the RMT so we can get back to building prosperity and showing the world that London is open business.
Boris Johnson could reportedly face a crunch vote on his premiership as new polling predicted the Conservatives risk being pummelled in a key electoral contest.

A survey of voters in Wakefield, who will go to the polls on June 23 to elect a new MP, has suggested the Tories could lose the by-election by as much as 20 points in an indication the revelations about Downing Street lockdown-busting gatherings have hit the partys popularity in a battleground seat.

The Prime Minister secured his landslide 2019 majority off the back of scalps in the so-called Red Wall, with traditional Labour-supporting areas in the North of England, the Midlands and Wales switching their support to the Tories.

But the Wakefield constituency polling by JL Partners and reported in The Sunday Times is likely to make for anxious reading for Tory campaigners, with the company putting Labour on 48 points compared with 28 points for Mr Johnsons outfit  a 19 point slip on the winning Tory performance two-and-a-half years ago.

The poll findings come amid reports the threshold for a no-confidence vote might have been reached, with suggestions a leadership test could be coming as soon as Wednesday.

James Johnson, co-founder of JL Partners and a former Downing Street pollster during Theresa Mays tenure, said the so-called partygate saga looked to have damaged the Tory reputation among Red Wall voters.

The polling expert said the top reason swing voters in the West Yorkshire seat  who are voting for a candidate to succeed former Tory incumbent Imran Ahmad Khan after he was found guilty of sexually assaulting a boy  gave for preferring Labour was because Boris Johnson tried to cover up partygate, and lied to the public.

According to the company, 60% of those interviewed for the survey taken online between May 13-22 had a negative opinion of the Prime Minister.

James Johnson tweeted: The main hesitations about voting Conservative: trust, Boris, and a sense the Tories are out of touch and only care about the rich.

All signs are that partygate has crystallised historic concerns about the Tories and turned the people of Wakefield decidedly against them.

Boris Johnson is the most unpopular party leader in Wakefield, with a net rating of -37. 23% have a positive view of him, 60% negative. Keir Starmer has a rating of -28 (21% positive, 49% negative). (5/10)  James Johnson (@jamesjohnson252) June 4, 2022

The survey could pile more pressure on the PM, who faces a second test in the Tiverton and Honiton by-election on the same day as Wakefield, in the wake of the party revelations.

Last month, an investigation published by senior civil servant Sue Gray laid bare the details of a host of Covid rule-breaching gatherings held in No 10 and Whitehall.

The inquiry found that raucous parties had taken place, with staff throwing up, getting into altercations and being rude to security staff.

The Prime Minister was found to have attended a number of leaving dos for aides, giving speeches and joining in the drinking of alcohol, despite him at the same time telling the public not to see sick and dying loved ones in a bid to stop the spread of the virus.

The publication of Ms Grays findings have accelerated calls for Mr Johnson to resign, with almost 30 Tory MPs having called for him to quit and more publicly voicing criticisms.

Comedian Lee Mack made a joke at Boris Johnsons expense during a Saturday evening concert outside Buckingham Palace to mark the Queens Platinum Jubilee (Joe Giddens/PA)

Under Conservative Party rules, if 54 letters of no confidence in his premiership are submitted to Sir Graham Brady, the chairman of the 1922 Committee of backbench Tories, then a leadership vote will be held.

The Sunday Times said it had been told as many as 67 letters had gone in which, if correct, would mean the threshold has been reached.

The rebels would need 180 voters to remove the Prime Minister from power during the secret poll, otherwise affording him, by the current rules, a years stay of execution before another bid to oust him can be held.

A vote this week on his future as Britains Prime Minister would cap a bruising few days for Mr Johnson, who on Friday was booed upon his arrival, alongside his wife Carrie, for a service at St Pauls Cathedral to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Queens reign.

Comedian Lee Mack also made a joke about partygate at the Platinum Party at the Palace concert on Saturday evening, with the Prime Minister watching on from the royal box at the time.

Shadow culture secretary Lucy Powell, writing in The Observer, said the decision to jeer Mr Johnson was a reflection that he does not uphold the British values of diplomacy, rule of law, decency and integrity.

The Prime Minister has repeatedly shown he is unable to uphold those values, and the reaction of the public at St Pauls showed they know it too, she said.

Mr Johnson will reportedly look to appease his critics this week by announcing right-wing and Thatcherite friendly policies, including extending the right to buy scheme and publishing domestic legislation designed to override elements of the Northern Ireland Protocol which are causing friction for the Union.

It is feared acting unilaterally on the protocol could spark a trade war with Brussels.

The Foreign Office said only that the Brexit treaty-related Bill would be announced in due course, while No 10 said no date had been set for an announcement on possibly giving more renters the ability to buy the homes they rent from housing associations.
Weighing in. NeNe Leakes has been named in a lawsuit, alleging that her relationship with Nyonisela Sioh began before he separated from his wife  though she is publicly denying the allegations.

Read article

Im already out here a husband stealer and this is too much, the Real Housewives of Atlanta alum, 54, said during an Instagram Live video on Thursday, June 2. And aint nobody out here stealing husbands. Are they? I would never.

Broadimage/Shutterstock

She added: Nobody want to steal nobody elses problems, honey.

While Leakes has yet to further address the legal battle, she and the Nyoni Couture designer enjoyed a date night on Thursday. The former Bravo personality shared Instagram Story footage of the twosome sitting in their car as Muni Longs Hrs and Hrs played in the background.

Read article

Us Weekly confirmed hours earlier that Leakes had been named in a lawsuit by Malomine Tehmeh-Sioh  who previously wed Sioh in November 2010 in which she alleged that the Linnethia Lounge owner broke up their happy marriage.

According to court documents obtained by Us, Tehmeh-Sioh claimed that she and Sioh enjoyed a genuine happy marital relationship with an active sexual relationship before he moved on with the Glee alum.

Upon information and belief, during the Plaintiffs marriage, Defendant and Plaintiffs husband engaged in an ongoing romantic, uninhibited and adulterous affair without the knowledge or consent of Plaintiff, the court filing read.

Tehmeh-Sioh  who separated from the Liberia native in December 2021  further alleged that her estranged husband lied about his whereabouts and his romance with Leakes. The court docs revealed Tehmeh-Sioh  who shares 12-year-old son Nyoni with Sioh  is asking for $100,000 in damages for dishonor of the marriage bed, invasion and deprivation of exclusive marital rights and privileges, embarrassment and humiliation and more. At the time, Leakes rep had no comment on the matter.

While the reality TV star denied infidelity on her part, Us confirmed her romance with Sioh in December 2021 with a source noting that they were introduced by Peter Thomas, who was previously married to Leakes former costar Cynthia Bailey.

The New Normal alums budding relationship comes less than three months after her longtime husband, Gregg Leakes, died after a battle with stage III colon cancer. He was 66.

Read article

Today the Leakes family is in deep pain with a broken heart. After a long battle with cancer, Gregg Leakes has passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by all of his children, very close loved ones and wife Nene Leakes, a rep told Us in September 2021. We ask that you pray for peace and strength over their family & allow them to mourn in private during this very very difficult time.

NeNe  who shares son Brentt with her late spouse  opened up about whether she was ready to find love again nearly one month later.

Thank you to everybody. All the gentleman that have been in my DMs, thank yall too, she said in an Instagram video that October. Im just over here doing me right now, but hey! I love reading the messages. They are inspiring to say the least. Thank you.
TEHRAN, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Iran's Ports and Maritime Organization (PMO) announced Sunday that the crew members of two seized Greek tankers are in good health and will be allowed to contact their families, the official news agency IRNA reported.

The statement was made following a meeting between Iranian officials and the captains of the seized tankers.

During the meeting, the captains confirmed the good health condition of the crew members, said the statement, noting the crew members will be able to meet with their related embassies in Tehran after coordinating with the Iranian Foreign Ministry.

It was also decided during the meeting that the crew would regain access to SIM cards and mobile phones to contact their families, added the statement.

Food, water and other consumables will be provided, and coordination will be made for disposing garbage off the vessels, said the statement.

The Iranian military forces have acted appropriately and that no complaints have been reported from the crew members in this regard, read the statement.

Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps seized two Greek oil tankers in the Gulf last week, for what it calls a "violation" of maritime regulations, days after a Russia-operated ship was captured by Greece in its territorial waters and its Iranian crude cargo confiscated by the United States. 
The Home Office has been accused of attempting to deport unaccompanied minors to Rwanda.

Charities claim there is a worrying pattern of asylum seekers who are under the age of 18 being classed as adults by the Government.

The refugee charity Care4Calais is currently engaged in an age dispute with the Home Office over two teenage boys who have been issued with notices of removal.

While the boys say they are 16, the Home Office  after undertaking age assessments  claim they are 23 and 26 respectively.

Our lawyers will fight for that. One 16 year old saw his brother killed in front of him when his village was raided in Sudan. He escaped and went back later to find the whole village gone.  Care4Calais (@Care4Calais) June 4, 2022

It is essential that proper age assessments are done before any deportation takes place, the charity said in a statement, pledging to use its lawyers to challenge the notices.

One (of the) 16-year-old (boys) saw his brother killed in front of him when his village was raided in Sudan. He escaped and went back later to find the whole village gone.

Anti-trafficking charity Love146 UK similarly expressed alarm over the Governments age assessment system for asylum seekers.

Combine incorrect age assessments, making it harder for trafficking survivors to be recognised, and a plan to send vulnerable asylum seekers to Rwanda and you have the perfect storm for children being deported more than 4,000 miles away. pic.twitter.com/8qwT0n2E29  Love146 UK (@Love146UK) June 3, 2022

Campaigns manager Daniel Sohege told The Guardian the charity is seeing children as young as 14 being incorrectly age-assessed as 23.

He added: The number of children we have seen who have just had 1999 put down as their date of birth when they are clearly under 18 is highly concerning, and putting young people at risk.

Lauren Starkey, a social worker for the charity, told the newspaper: It is not within the realm of possibility that anyone, especially someone trained in child protection, could look at the children we have seen and believe they are in their 20s.

The PA news agency has asked the Home Office for comment over the charities claims.

They come after the Home Office said it will not remove any person from the UK if it is unsafe or inappropriate to do so, and denied that unaccompanied minors will be among those sent to Rwanda as part of the Governments controversial scheme to process migrants offshore.

Home Secretary Priti Patel said she is determined the UK will send migrants to Rwanda (James Manning/PA)

Earlier this week, Home Secretary Priti Patel said she is absolutely determined that the UK will send migrants to Rwanda despite the prospect of legal challenges being mounted by human rights groups.

The Home Office has begun formally notifying migrants of their removal to Rwanda, with the first deportation flight expected to depart on June 14.

The Government described the move as the final administrative step in its partnership with the east African nation, whereby people who are deemed to have entered the UK illegally will be encouraged to rebuild their lives thousands of miles away.

Nearly 10,000 migrants have arrived in the UK so far this year after crossing the English Channel in small boats, Government figures show (Gareth Fuller/PA)

Despite the prospect of the removals being held up by court action from human rights groups, Ms Patel said she is resolute about delivering the scheme for the British public.

She added: It is unprecedented. Its the first of its kind and I can tell you something else  its exactly what the British people want.

Described by Ms Patel as a world-first agreement when it was announced last month, the deportation policy will see asylum seekers deemed to have entered the UK by illegal means sent to Rwanda, where their claims will be processed.

If successful, they will be granted asylum or given refugee status in the country.

Those with failed bids will be offered the chance to apply for visas under other immigration routes if they wish to remain in Rwanda, but could still face deportation.
People carry the body of a victim after a fire broke out at the BM Inland Container Depot, a Dutch-Bangladesh joint venture, in Chittagong, 134 miles southeast of the capital, Dhaka, Bangladesh, early Sunday. (Associated Press)

A massive fire at a container depot near a port city in southeastern Bangladesh killed at least 49 people, including nine firefighters, and injured more than 100 others, officials and local media reported Sunday, as efforts to extinguish the blaze continued into a second night.

The inferno at the BM Inland Container Depot, a Dutch-Bangladesh joint venture, broke out around midnight Saturday following explosions in a container full of chemicals. The cause of the fire could not be immediately determined. The depot is near the country's main Chittagong Seaport, 134 miles southeast of the capital, Dhaka.

At least nine firefighters were among the dead, according to Brig. Gen. Main Uddin, director general of the Bangladesh fire service and civil defense. More than 10 others were being treated for burns, he added.

Multiple rounds of explosions occurred after the initial blast as the fire continued to spread, Uddin said. Explosives experts from Bangladesh's military have been called in to assist the firefighters. The explosions shattered the windows of nearby buildings and were felt as far as 2 1/2 miles away, officials and local media reports said.

The death toll reached 49 by Sunday evening, according to Ekattor TV station, and the area's civil surgeon said the number could still rise as the fire raged for a second night.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina expressed her shock at the accident and ordered adequate arrangement for medical treatment of the injured.

Bangladesh has a history of industrial disasters, including factories catching fire with workers trapped inside. Monitoring groups have blamed corruption and lax enforcement.

Global brands, which employ tens of thousands of low-paid workers in Bangladesh, have come under criticism to improve factory conditions in recent years. In the country's massive garment industry, which employs about 4 million people, safety conditions have improved significantly after reforms, but experts say accidents could still occur if other sectors do not make similar changes.

In 2012, about 117 workers died when they were trapped behind locked exits in a garment factory in Dhaka.

The countrys worst industrial disaster occurred the following year, when the Rana Plaza garment factory outside Dhaka collapsed, killing more than 1,100 people.

In 2019, a blaze ripped through a 400-year-old area cramped with apartments, shops and warehouses in the oldest part of Dhaka and killed at least 67 people. Another fire in Old Dhaka in a house illegally storing chemicals killed at least 123 people in 2010.

In 2021, a fire at a food and beverage factory outside Dhaka killed at least 52 people, many of whom were trapped inside by an illegally locked door.





This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Graduating senior from Enloe High School Malika Mobley has concerns about proposed increases in police presence in schools following the recent Texas school shooting, Thursday, June 3, 2022, in Raleigh, N.C. To reassure students and educators following the mass shooting at a Texas elementary school, districts around the country pledged to boost security measures and increased the presence of law enforcement on campus. (AP Photo/Chris Seward)

After the mass shooting at a Texas elementary school, schools around the country pledged to boost security measures and increased the presence of law enforcement on campus  partly to reassure parents and students.

But police inside schools can make some students more uneasy, not less. Especially for Black students and other students of color, their personal experiences with policing can leave them feeling unsafe and alienated from school when they see officers on campus.

High school senior Malika Mobley has seen three different school resource officers patrolling the campus in Raleigh, North Carolina. Once on the way home from school, Mobley saw officers detain a visibly distraught classmate and push the student into the back of a police vehicle.

They were crying, Why are you doing this to me? I didnt do anything,' said Mobley, co-president of Wake County Black Student Coalition. I was just forced to stand there and couldn't do anything.

Since 2020, the student group has advocated for eliminating police officers from school buildings in favor of investing in counselors and support staff for students.

We dont see police presence as part of the solution, Mobley said. If you really think about why police dont make us safer, you can draw connections to all types of tragedies that impact the most marginalized among us.

Police officers have a regular presence at schools across the country in recent decades, often in the form of school resource officers, who are tasked with building relationships with young people to promote trust of law enforcement, providing security, and enforcing laws. Critics say having armed police on campus often results in Black students being disproportionately arrested and punished, leading to what they call the school-to-prison pipeline.

Researchers have found that Black students report feeling less safe around police officers than their white peers and that officers in predominantly Black school districts were more likely to view students themselves to be threats.

Black students and other students of color also are disproportionately likely to have negative interactions with police in schools, ranging from referrals to law enforcement to being arrested or restrained, said Katherine Dunn, director of the Opportunity to Learn program at the Advancement Project. Since 2007, the Advancement Project has documented at least 200 instances of officers at schools assaulting students, she said.

It shows all the physical harms that young people experience by police," she said. "It's also the experience of being degraded and made to feel like a criminal because you have to walk down the hallway to your class with several armed cops, who are not there for your safety, who you see arrest your friends, assault your friends.

In 2018, after the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, the state Legislature passed laws mandating public schools to have either law enforcement or armed personnel present on campuses.

A study of the law's impact by F. Chris Curran, a University of Florida professor, found the expanded police presence was followed by an increase in school arrests and the number of reported behavioral incidents. He said there are many factors to consider in deciding the role police play in schools.

I'd like to see that conversation include thoughtful considerations of potential benefits, decreasing certain kinds of behaviors, but also the potential unintended consequences, if that's increasing the likelihood students are arrested or potentially increasing racial disparities in discipline and arrest rates, Curran said.

While there are examples of school resource officers who have intervened in incidents of gun violence, Curran said, the presence of law enforcement does not always guarantee that shootings or other violence won't occur, or that the officer would be immediately effective at stopping the perpetrator and minimizing casualties.

In a statement issued this week on best practices for school security in the wake of the Uvalde, Texas, shooting, the National Association of School Resource Officers emphasized the importance of having a carefully selected, specifically trained SRO on its campus whenever school is in session.

The nonprofit group has rejected criticism that officers contribute to a school-to-prison pipeline. Officers who follow its best practices, it says, do not arrest students for disciplinary issues that would be handled ordinarily by educators.

As elsewhere around the country last week, the police presence was increased outside schools across North Carolina to provide reassurance to families in the wake of the Uvalde, Texas shooting.

Wake County schools have 75 school resource officers, drawn from several local law enforcement agencies.

The Wake County Black Student Coalition's campaign to remove the officers stemmed partly from student accounts of bad experiences with officers, including a 2017 incident where a school resource officer was filmed picking up a Black girl and slamming her to the ground, said Chalina Morgan-Lopez, a high school senior who is co-president of the student group.

I think it's a reasonable response to want more officers in schools, especially from people who genuinely do feel protected by law enforcement, even though that's not my lived experience," Morgan-Lopez said. "But I think people need to take into account ... that officers do in fact do more harm than they do good."

Last summer the school system made several changes to its school resource officer program, including a new process for fielding grievances involving officers and adjustments to training to prepare them better for the school environment, said Lisa Luten, a spokesperson for the school system. The review was based on community feedback the district sought in the wake of the killing of George Floyd and the resurgence of the Black Lives Matter movement, Luten said.

This is not a new conversation for us," she said. That certainly brought it back to light.

___

Ma, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, writes about education and equity for APs Race and Ethnicity team. Follow her on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/anniema15

___

The Associated Press reporting around issues of race and ethnicity is supported in part by the Howard Hughes Medical Institutes Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
PHILADELPHIA (AP)  Three people have died and at least 11 other people were wounded in a shooting late Saturday night in Philadelphia, authorities said.

Police officers were patrolling the area on South Street in downtown Philadelphia when they heard multiple gunshots and witnessed several suspects firing into a large crowd just before midnight, Police Inspector D. F. Pace said during a news conference.

An officer shot at one of the suspects from about 30 feet (9 meters) away, but it is unclear if the suspect was hit, Pace said.

You can imagine there were hundreds of individuals just enjoying South Street, as they do every single weekend, when this shooting broke out, Pace said.

Two men and a woman were among those killed in the shooting, he said. Their names were not made public by authorities. The conditions of those who were wounded by gunfire remains unknown.

Two handguns were recovered, including one with an extended magazine, police said. No arrests have been made.

The department said on Twitter to avoid the area. South Street is known for its entertainment venues and night life with multiple bars, restaurants and businesses.
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (AP)  A shooting near a Tennessee nightclub early Sunday led to three deaths and 14 people suffering gunshot wounds and other injuries, police said.

Fourteen people were hit by gunfire and three were hit by vehicles while trying to flee the scene, Chattanooga Police Chief Celeste Murphy said during a press conference. Two people died from gunshot wounds and one person died after being hit by a vehicle, Murphy said. Sixteen of the victims were adults and one was a juvenile and several remained in critical condition, she said.

Officers responded to a report of a shooting at 2:42 a.m. on McCallie Avenue near a nightclub and found multiple victims upon arrival. She said officers immediately began rendering aid and securing the scene.

There were multiple shooters and Murphy asked anyone in the community with information about the shooting to come forward. She said police believe it was an isolated incident and authorities don't believe there's an ongoing public safety threat.

Murphy said it would be a complex investigation going forward.

We're trying to determine exactly what happened and what led up to this taking place, she said.

The shooting comes the weekend after six juveniles were wounded during an exchange of gunfire in a downtown Chattanooga business district.
Problems with the Northern Ireland Protocol stem from the relative weakness of the UKs position in the Brexit talks with the EU, Boris Johnsons former chief negotiator has said.

Lord Frost, the ex-Brexit minister who negotiated the Withdrawal Agreement, said the arrangements for Northern Ireland would only have worked if the EUs regulatory framework had not been fully applied.

He said the EUs purism in the way it was implementing the protocol  which requires customs checks on goods moving from Great Britain to Northern Ireland  was now threatening the peace process.

Lord Frost made his comments in a foreword to a report by the centre-right Policy Exchange think tank which argued that the idea of an all-island Irish economy was a fiction that was being promoted for political ends.

The report by the Policy Exchanges chief economic adviser Dr Graham Gudgin said that, despite the signing of the Good Friday Agreement in 1998, there was little integration between Northern Ireland and the Republic and that they remained two distinct economies.

Only 4% of the goods and services produced in Northern Ireland cross the border to the Republic while 16% go to Great Britain, and 31% of imports to Northern Ireland are from the rest of the UK, the report said.

At the same time, just 2% of the Republics exports go to Northern Ireland and only 6% of Northern Irelands imports come from the Republic.

Lord Frost said the idea of an all-island economy had effectively become part of the protocol because it chimed with the political ambitions of Brussels and Dublin, even though it did not accord with the reality on the ground.

Lord Trimble said said the language of the Irish Government was having a destabilising effect (Brian Lawless/PA)

Shaped as the protocol is by relative UK weakness and EU predominance in the Withdrawal Agreement negotiations, it enshrines a concept, the all-island economy, which suits the EU, Ireland, and their allies politically but which does not exist in real life, he said.

Hence the grinding tensions, the economic frictions, and the political turbulence caused by the protocol.

Given this economic reality, the protocol arrangements could only have worked if, in real life, the EU regulatory framework had not been fully applied in practice (recognising, for example, the protocols requirement to minimise checks and controls at Northern Ireland ports) and there had been much more pragmatism in its operation.

As it was, the EUs purism and its casually destructive handling undermined East-West links from the start and are now bringing the Belfast (Good Friday) Agreement itself into great peril.

In a second foreword to the report, the former Northern Ireland first minister Lord Trimble, who was leader of the Ulster Unionist Party at the time of the Good Friday Agreement, said talk by the Irish Government of an island economy was having a destabilising effect.

At the time of the Good Friday Agreement, the Irish government did not talk to us about an island economy: they were looking for cooperation for mutual benefit, he said.

Today the Irish Government has a different language in which the island economy is an endlessly repeated theme. The Irish Government sharpens unionist fears that there is some all-island economic propulsion leading to political unity. This has had a destabilising effect.

Labours shadow international trade secretary, Nick Thomas-Symonds, said: Now is not the time for a blame game about the workings of the protocol.

What is needed is a pragmatic way forward.

Chaos in the Conservative Party should not be preventing ministers from getting around the table and carrying out the painstaking work necessary to find a solution, and the EU should engage in a pragmatic spirit.
Travellers from Paris to London have been left tired, frustrated and defeated after power supply problems led to the cancellation of several Eurostar trains.

Those heading to the UK described waiting at the Gare du Nord station for more than eight hours, as Eurostar advised passengers not to travel on Sunday unless their journey is essential.

Many criticised the lack of communication from Eurostar, despite the efforts of staff to help those stranded.

Rex Glensy, 52, was trying to get from Paris to London and said few updates have caused a black hole of information and (allowed) misinformation to flourish.

UPDATE: Due to a problem with overhead power supply near Paris, #ES9032, #ES9040, #ES9031 and #9039 are also cancelled. If you are booked on these services, visit https://t.co/dj5JOX2UvF to exchange. We strongly urge NOT to travel today and to postpone to alternative date. Thanks  Eurostar (@Eurostar) June 5, 2022

Delays happen and you cant get too angry at that. What has been annoying however, is the complete lack of communication from Eurostar, the film producer from London told the PA news agency.

I would recommend that the business re-evaluates its communications processes to ensure it puts its clients first  leaving customers without any information in the age of social media is unacceptable.

Mr Glensy added that the ground staff have been stellar throughout the ordeal, but added that he and his partner are feeling tired, frustrated and defeated as they try to make it home.

Callum Davies, 33, flew in from Havana, Cuba, on Sunday and had a connecting train to London booked, but has been stuck in queues of nearly seven hours in Paris.

Rex Glensy said he and his partner feel tired and defeated (Rex Glensy/PA)

(There is) clear frustration over the sheer lack of info from Eurostar socials, Mr Davies, an accountant, said.

The staff themselves in the station have clearly done the best they can which has been great, albeit given the huge amount of people it felt a bit chaotic at times with groups of people here and there.

Overall the station must have some form of plans for when things like this happen. But it felt like whatever they were doing, wasnt it.

A Eurostar spokesman said: Due to a problem with the overhead power supply near Paris, all services to and from Paris are subject to delays and cancellations today.

Trains are on the move, but are still experiencing delays.

Callum Davies has been at Gare du Nord for nearly seven hours (Callum Davies/PA)

Our staff are working hard to look after passengers.

We advise passengers not to travel today and to postpone their journey if it is not essential.

They added services are expected to run as normal tomorrow.
Chinese FM meets Timor-Leste's ruling party chief, parliament speaker

Xinhua) 13:21, June 05, 2022

Visiting Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi (R) meets with Timor-Leste's ruling Revolutionary Front for an Independent Timor-Leste (Fretilin) general secretary Mari Alkatiri in Dili, Timor-Leste, June 4, 2022. (Xinhua/Veri Sanovri)

DILI, June 4 (Xinhua) -- Visiting Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Timor-Leste's ruling Revolutionary Front for an Independent Timor-Leste (Fretilin) general secretary Mari Alkatiri and Aniceto Guterres Lopes, speaker of the national parliament, here on Saturday.

Wang said that Fretilin is a political party with glorious tradition, which has been committed to the rebirth of the country since it was born, and still plays an important role today in the development and revitalization of Timor-Leste.

The Communist Party of China (CPC) has a long-standing relationship with Fretilin, and the two parties have always maintained inter-party exchanges, said Wang, adding that China appreciates Fretilin's firm adherence to the one-China policy and is willing to take the joint commemoration of the 20th anniversary of Timor-Leste's independence and the 20th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries as an opportunity to strengthen exchanges, consolidate mutual trust and deepen friendship.

Wang said that the important experience of the CPC, which has been in power for a long time and enjoys wide support from the people, is that it maintains its advanced nature, keeps up with the times and combines advanced Marxist theories with China's specific practices.

The second important experience, Wang said, is to stick to its idea of serving the people, to practise the original mission and to insist on coming from the people and going to the people, Wang said.

He added that the third important experience is to focus on stability, successively mapping out and implementing development plans, and hence to be able to draw a blueprint to the end.

The fourth experience, according to Wang, is to ensure purity, adhere to self-revolution, hold zero tolerance for corruption, and establish a complete supervision system.

For his part, Alkatiri said that since the independence of Timor-Leste, both sides have maintained close links and active exchanges, and have become good partners in the joint building of the Belt and Road.

He appreciated China for siding with his country during the challenging times and for China's strong support for Timor-Leste's construction, economic development and the fight against the pandemic.

He also said Timor-Leste has never changed its position on adhering to the one-China policy, and remained committed to strengthening planning and deepening mutually beneficial cooperation with China.

Alkatiri stressed that China has not only safeguarded world peace, but also shared development dividends with other countries and stayed committed to maintaining fairness and justice, which brought development and opportunities to other countries.

He pledged to work with China to remain committed to pursuing the common goals of developing countries.

Wang stressed that China's development stems from the Chinese people's wisdom, diligence and hard work, instead of aggression and colonialization, let alone power politics and bullying.

China's continued development represents a growing force for world peace and global stability, which offers more development opportunities for various countries, Wang said.

He noted that China is always willing to help developing countries, as well as small and medium-sized countries accelerate their development, and its cooperation with other countries has never been attached with any political conditions.

Some countries have attempted to draw lines along ideology and provoke new bloc confrontation in the world, which runs counter to the trend of the times and is doomed to fail, Wang said.

China will forever remain a trustworthy and reliable friend and partner of developing countries, he noted.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Bianji)
A staff member shows a metal toy telephone made in 1950s at Richmond Museum's artifact storage warehouse during the Doors Open Richmond event in Richmond, British Columbia, Canada, on June 4, 2022. Richmond Museum's artifact storage warehouse, a place where the city stores historical artifact collections, offered the public an opportunity to have a behind-the-scene tour during the Doors Open Richmond event. (Photo by Liang Sen/Xinhua)

People look at a carriage made in 1900s at Richmond Museum's artifact storage warehouse during the Doors Open Richmond event in Richmond, British Columbia, Canada, on June 4, 2022. Richmond Museum's artifact storage warehouse, a place where the city stores historical artifact collections, offered the public an opportunity to have a behind-the-scene tour during the Doors Open Richmond event. (Photo by Liang Sen/Xinhua)

Typewriters are displayed at Richmond Museum's artifact storage warehouse during the Doors Open Richmond event in Richmond, British Columbia, Canada, on June 4, 2022. Richmond Museum's artifact storage warehouse, a place where the city stores historical artifact collections, offered the public an opportunity to have a behind-the-scene tour during the Doors Open Richmond event. (Photo by Liang Sen/Xinhua)

A staff member shows a gas mask at Richmond Museum's artifact storage warehouse during the Doors Open Richmond event in Richmond, British Columbia, Canada, on June 4, 2022. Richmond Museum's artifact storage warehouse, a place where the city stores historical artifact collections, offered the public an opportunity to have a behind-the-scene tour during the Doors Open Richmond event. (Photo by Liang Sen/Xinhua)

People visit Richmond Museum's artifact storage warehouse during the Doors Open Richmond event in Richmond, British Columbia, Canada, on June 4, 2022. Richmond Museum's artifact storage warehouse, a place where the city stores historical artifact collections, offered the public an opportunity to have a behind-the-scene tour during the Doors Open Richmond event. (Photo by Liang Sen/Xinhua)

A staff member shows a metal toy made in 1930s at Richmond Museum's artifact storage warehouse during the Doors Open Richmond event in Richmond, British Columbia, Canada, on June 4, 2022. Richmond Museum's artifact storage warehouse, a place where the city stores historical artifact collections, offered the public an opportunity to have a behind-the-scene tour during the Doors Open Richmond event. (Photo by Liang Sen/Xinhua)
Vatican City (AsiaNews)  At the end of the Regina Caeli prayer in St Peter's Square, on the day of Pentecost, Pope Francis lamented that, one hundred days after the beginning of the armed aggression against Ukraine, the nightmare of war, which is the negation of Gods dream, has once again befallen humanity.

This is 50 days after Easter, on the feast day in which peoples who speak different languages are supposed to encounter and understand one another so that Gods dream for humanity becomes reality; today, instead, we see peoples in conflict with one another, peoples who kill each other, people being driven from their homes instead of being brought closer.

[W]hile the fury of destruction and death rampages and the conflicts rage on, fuelling an escalation that is increasingly dangerous for all, I renew my appeal to the leaders of Nations: do not lead humanity into ruin, please! Do not lead humanity into ruin, please! Let true negotiations take place, real talks for a ceasefire and for a sustainable solution.

Turning to the victims of the conflict, the pontiff said: Let the desperate cry of the suffering people be heard  we see this every day in the media  have respect for human life and stop the macabre destruction of cities and villages in the east of Ukraine. Let us continue, please, to pray and to strive tirelessly for peace.

The Holy Father also expressed his closeness to the fishermen who, due to the increase in the cost of petrol, risk having to stop working as well as all the workers in other domains seriously affected by the conflict in Ukraine.

Yesterday, during a meeting in the Vatican with 160 girls and boys taking part in the Childrens Train, promoted by the Cortile dei Gentili (Courtyard of the kind people), Francis reiterated his wish to go to Kiev. I am waiting for the right moment, he said answering a child's question.

At the end of the Regina Caeli, Francis also mentioned yesterdays beatification in Lebanon of two Capuchin Friars Minor, Leonard Melki and Thomas Saleh, two martyred priests, killed in hatred of the faith in Turkey in 1915 and 1917 respectively. These two Lebanese missionaries, in a hostile context, proved their unshakeable faith in God and self-sacrifice for their neighbour. May their example strengthen our Christian witness, Francis said.

The pontiff also talked about the latest developments in the war in Yemen. I have learned with satisfaction that the truce in Yemen has been renewed for another two months. Thanks to God, and to you. I hope that this sign of hope may be a further step to put an end to that bloody conflict, which has caused one of the worst humanitarian crises of our times. His thoughts went to the children of Yemen, who are suffering from hunger, lack of education, lack of everything.

The pontiff also extended his prayers for the victims of the landslides caused by torrential rains in the metropolitan region of Recife, Brazil.

Before the Regina Caeli, the pope led the Mass for the feast of Pentecost, which was celebrated by Card Giovanni Battista Re, in the parvis of St Peter's Square. In his homily, Francis focused on what the Gospel says about Pentecost. The Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything, and remind you of all I have said to you (Jn 14:26). [. . .] The Spirit makes us see everything in a new way, with the eyes of Jesus. [. . .] in the great journey of life, the Spirit teaches us where to begin, what paths to take, and how to walk.

We tend to think that love comes from our keeping, our fidelity and our devotion. Yet the Spirit reminds us that without love as our basis, all the rest is in vain. And that love comes not so much from our abilities, but as his gift.

The Holy Spirit is an active memory, which ignites and rekindles Gods affection in human hearts and is experienced through forgiveness from sins. In addition to reminding us of failures and inadequacies, the Holy Spirit reminds us that we are children of God, always loved. Because he, the Consoler, is the Spirit of healing, of resurrection, who can transform the hurts burning within you, as he did with the apostles, the pontiff said.

The pope explained that the Spirit teaches us which way to go. As Saint Paul writes, how many are led by the Spirit of God (Rom 8:14) walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit (v. 4). [. . .] It is important, then, to be able to distinguish his voice from the voice of the spirit of evil. Both speak to us, the pontiff said.

While the Holy Spirit corrects and spurs us to change, even if this requires effort, causes an inner struggle and demands sacrifices, the evil spirit pushes us to act according to our own interest, and then blames us and casts us down. However, when we feel troubled by bitterness, pessimism and negativity [. . .] then it is good to remember that these things never come from the Holy Spirit; they come from evil, which is at home with negativity. It often uses this strategy: it stokes impatience and self-pity.

Francis went on to explained that The Holy Spirit is practical, he is not an idealist. He wants us to concentrate on the here and now, because the time and place in which we find ourselves are themselves grace-filled. [. . .] The Holy Spirit wants us to be together; he makes us Church and today  here is the third and final aspect  he teaches the Church how to walk. The disciples, in fact, were holed up in the Upper Room, until the Spirit descended and brought them out.

In every age, the Spirit overturns our preconceived notions and opens us to his newness. God, the Spirit, is always new! He constantly teaches the Church the vital importance of going forth, impelled to proclaim the Gospel. The importance of our being, not a secure sheepfold

For Francis, the Church cannot be programmed and every effort at modernization is not enough. In fact, the Spirit beckons us to walk his paths, ever ancient and ever new, the paths of witness, poverty and mission, and in this way, he sets us free from ourselves and sends us forth into the world. The Church, Francis suggests, is an open pasture where all can graze on Gods beauty as well as an open house without walls of division.

During the Angelus the pope spoke of the Holy Spirit as well, as an aid that can help face the difficulties of the present.

The Holy Spirit is a specialist in bridging distances and teaches us how to overcome them [. . .] who connects the teaching of Jesus with every time and every person. With him Christs words [. . .] come alive today!

The spirit can get us to remember, bringing the Gospel back into our hearts, protecting us from the temptation of making faith a museum piece. [. . .] Woe to us, should we become forgetful Christians! The remedy is to invoke the Holy Spirit.

Last but not least, the Holy Father called on the faithful in St Peters Square to recite a simple invocation: Holy Spirit, remind me of Jesus, enlighten my heart. Urging them to repeat it often, especially at important moments, Francis also said to open a passage of the Gospel, which the Spirit will make speak to our lives.

May the Virgin Mary, filled with of the Holy Spirit, kindle in us the desire to pray to him and receive the Word of God.
Police ID suspect in attack on doctor, nurses at LA hospital

Police have identified the man who allegedly stabbed a doctor and two nurses inside a Southern California hospital emergency ward and remained inside a room for hours before police arrested him
MPV

Mercedes-Benz discovered that almost 1 million of its cars might pose a risk to drivers and traffic. Even though the recall is about models from 2004 until 2015, the German company argues a brake booster issue needs to be solved immediately.The ML and GL SUVs together with the R Classneed to go in for a free check. If the authorized service centers discover the vehicles might need repairing, then it will be done for free.As per usual, owners that are in the Mercedes-Benz database will be contacted and informed. Other owners of 2004-2015 MLs, GLs, and R Class MPVs will have to ask themselves about the recall and if theyre part of it.A statement by Mercedes-Benz points out the advanced corrosion in the joint area of the brake housing might affect the stopping distance. The driver would have the increase the force applied to the brake pedal to properly stop the moving vehicle, says Reuters citing the DPA and the Germany motor vehicle authority (KBA).The recall has already started, but the almost 1 million cars sold worldwide that might have this issue wont be easy to identify and bring in for a much-needed fix. Over 70,000 vehicles are estimated to be in Germany.Mercedes-Benz has done many checks in the past couple of months and multiple recalls have been started for various reasons. It might look bad, but fans and customers must understand this is a normal reaction from a serious manufacturer that verifies its cars and offers solutions to potential problems.Even though it took Mercedes-Benz some time to discover this particular braking issue brought by corrosion, the carmaker took it upon itself to announce it and to make the relevant changes to the affected vehicles.
You can find the Android Auto 7.8 beta APK on this page Of course, the first question that comes to mind is what exactly is new in this update. As per Googles typical approach, these updates dont come with a changelog, so its entirely up to users to figure out whats been changed.But as it turns out, the most notable addition is an Android Auto beta notification system that lets users know when a new version is available. In other words, if youre part of the beta program, you should end up seeing a new notification on your Android device whenever a new testing build goes live.The wording isnt necessarily the most straightforward, as the notification is titled Testing Android Auto setup and tells users to go through setup again next time you connect.And now, heres what is not available in Android Auto 7.8. If youre waiting for the Coolwalk update, the new beta build doesnt come with any news on this front, as Android Auto still features the old UI for the time being.We already know that Coolwalk is supposed to come later this year, but at this point, it just looks like the work on this major overhaul continues, and Google isnt ready yet to start the public rollout to devices out there. Of course, theres still no ETA as to when Android devices could be provided with the Coolkwalk update.Most likely, Android Auto 7.8 includes some fixes as well, but well probably discover them in a few days as more people install the beta. If everything goes well, the public rollout should start through the Google Play Store by the end of the month.
Greece has opened its doors to a greener life and welcomed Volkswagen's Smart & Sustainable Island project. First stop? Astypalea Island. By 2026, Volkswagen Group and the Hellenic Republic aim to convert the island in a Smart & Sustainable island, with a brand new energy system. But let's see first what exactly a smart and sustainable city entails.The United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) and the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) developed jointly a definition of smart sustainable cities. They say "a smart sustainable city is an innovative city that uses ICTs and other means to improve quality of life, efficiency of urban operation and services, and competitiveness, while ensuring that it meets the needs of present and future generations with respect to economic, social, environmental as well as cultural aspects."In other words, all things should work in harmony without harming each other.In a union of forces, minds, capital and will, Volkswagen and Greek leaders have introduced these days two new mobility services in Astypalea: ride-sharing service ASTYBUS, and vehicle sharing service astyGO, using fully electric vehicles available all year round. This is a great advantage, as traditional transport has limited access to certain places on the island so far. The ASTYBUS ridesharing service will start operating with the ID.4, and from the fall the ID. Buzz will join it. Also, vehicle sharing service astyGO is renting electric cars from Volkswagen, as well as e-scooters from SEAT MO and e-bikes from Ducati.The island has already benefited from e-mobility among local authorities since last year. Currently, the police, the airport authorities, the municipality and more recently the ambulance service carry out their activities with electric cars, followed by the first e-taxi. Also, the first private customer there recently received his ID.3.As the mobility changes on the island, new infrastructure will be needed. In order to supply the current e-fleet with green energy, Greece will develop a new solar park by 2023, providing about 3 megawatt of green energy. The new system will cover 80 percent of demand by 2026  including the 1,000 EVs that will be out and about on the island then. This will reduce carbon emissions by about 50 percent.Volkswagen adopted a decarbonization strategy in 2019 with the aim of becoming a net CO2-neutral company by 2050. By 2025, the company wants to reduce the carbon footprint of passenger cars and light commercial vehicles across the entire value chain by 30 percent compared to 2015.Asytaplea has 1,300 inhabitants and is being visited by around 36,000 tourists every year.
One such impossible task seems to be fighting forest fires. These fires have been taking place ever since forests appeared on this planet, and even to this day, despite all our best efforts, they play out in pretty much the same way: they start, and dont stop until theyve burned their way through everything they can.More recently, humans have started fighting back, and even if the results are most of the time disappointing, fires do tend to be a tad less fierce in some cases because of interventions being conducted. Especially when airborne firefighting planes are involved.You see one of those in the main photo of this piece. Its a C-130J Super Hercules flown by the California National Guards 146th Airlift Wing, and was captured on film as it was moving over the forests near Boise, Idaho, at the end of last month.The flight was part of the 2022 Modular Airborne Firefighting Systems (MAFFS) spring training, an exercise meant to test readiness ahead of what shapes up to be a hot summer ahead.MAFFS is essentially a self-contained unit for fighting fires, which is to be loaded into military aircraft, which in turn are sent in support of non-military forces when they are overwhelmed by the raging infernos.The unit essentially transforms military aircraft into aerial tankers that hold not fuel, but firefighting substances. A MAFFS comprises fire pressurized tanks, holding a total of 2,700 gallons (10,000 liters) of fire retardant, a pressure tank holding compressed air, control modules, and discharge valves.Being palletized, MAFFS can be loaded in the cargo bay of the likes of the Super Hercules.
VTOL

For a while now, a number of companies have been trying to come up with delivery solutions centered around drones . Some have succeeded, others less so, and an increasing number of them are trying to catch the bandwagon.One newcomer to the autonomous, vertical take-off and landing () delivery game is called Elroy Air. Based in San Francisco, the startup is already in cahoots with the likes of Lockheed Martin, NASA , and the U.S. Air Force (USAF) for something it describes as the first end-to-end autonomous vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aerial cargo system.The oversized drone of sorts is called Chaparral C1 , and was first shown in pre-production form in January this year. If successful, like all other drones envisioned for delivery purposes, it should forever change the way deliveries are being made.Now, the exact and full specs of the contraption are not entirely known, but heres what weve got so far on this pickup truck of the sky, as company CEO David Merril calls it.The Chaparral is designed as a miniature transport aircraft, with a main fuselage and wings spreading to each side. Its entire airframe is made of carbon composite, and does not hold a cargo bay, but only the bits and pieces that make it stay in the air and conduct its business.Those bits and pieces include the propulsion hardware. In this case, were talking about a hybrid electric powertrain, comprising battery packs and a gas turbine-based electric generator. They feed their power to no less than twelve motors, fitted six on each wing, both at the front and at the back. Eight of these motors, the ones whose blades are rotating horizontally, provide lift, while the other four, spinning vertically, are meant for forward motion.Elroy Air says this design was chosen out of caution: such a big number of motors (but also fault-tolerant avionics) should ensure not only the Chaparrals performance, but also its safety, as in if one of them fails for whatever reason, the others are more than capable of keeping the thing in the air.We said earlier that the aircraft has no internal cargo bay. Instead, it will use a yet undisclosed system to latch on to purpose-made, modular cargo pods, holding whatever goods the customer needs transporting.The aircraft can carry up to 500 lbs (227 kg) of cargo for a distance of up to 300 miles (483 km). It doesnt need special infrastructure to work, just a small landing pad (or, probably, any patch of clear terrain that can fit it) from where to pick up and deposit the pods.Elroy Air says the machine can land, leave its pod, pick up another, and take off in just a few minutes, with zero intervention from a human operator. Sure, the Chaparral can accommodate one, at least until we get used to such machines and regulations change, as it can also be remotely piloted.Because it behaves like a hybrid between a rough-and-ready helicopter and a battle-hardened bush plane, the Chaparral will be suitable for a wide variety of tasks, from delivering goods for commercial reasons to aiding with efforts being made for healthcare and humanitarian purposes, and could even be deployed in the service of the military.In fact, the USAF is already backing the project financially. In addition to the military branch, were told a number of companies, including partners of American Airlines, United Airlines, and DHL, have expressed interest in the technology, and have committed to buying some 500 Chaparrals, worth a total of over $1 billion.When exactly these commitments will be satisfied is unclear, as Elroy Air does not give us an estimate on when the aircraft will be ready for production.
KOTA KINABALU, Malaysia, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said here on Sunday that China is willing to help Pacific island nations to speed up development and revitalization after wrapping up his tour of eight island countries.

Under the turbulent international situation coupled with the lingering COVID-19 pandemic and weak economic recovery, Pacific island countries are faced with more risks and challenges, Wang said, adding that his visit was intended to enhance friendship, discuss cooperation, confront challenges, seek joint development, and create a future together with the island countries.

"This trip is a trip of peace, cooperation, and friendship," he said.

Wang said his tour covered all of the 10 Pacific island countries having diplomatic relations with China, and that he has, during the tour, held extensive, in-depth communication and exchanges with 17 leaders and more than 30 ministerial officials from the island countries.

For years, Pacific island countries are often been easily forgotten by the international community, or even marginalized, due to their weak national strength and voice, Wang said, adding that China is also a developing country and thus can better understand the situation, needs and concerns of small and medium-sized countries.

Wang expressed willingness to join hands with Pacific island countries to move forward with more solidarity, support each other with more determination, and conduct mutually beneficial cooperation with more pragmatism, so as to contribute to a closer community with a shared future between China and the island countries.

China and Pacific island countries, both developing countries, share extensive consensuses, similar concerns and common missions, he said. China's policy toward the island countries is to constantly advance their comprehensive strategic partnership featuring mutual respect and common development.

The concrete content of China's policy toward the island countries can be summarized as "four upholdings" -- the upholding of equal treatment, mutual respect, win-win cooperation, and openness and inclusiveness.

China's cooperation with the island countries does not target any other countries and will not be disrupted by any other states, Wang said.

China always adopts an open approach to engaging with any developed countries willing to conduct tripartite or multilateral cooperation in the island countries, so as to achieve multi-win and win-win results.

Kiribati's President Taneti Maamau stressed that island countries have the right to choose their own partners and expect China to play a bigger role in helping them promote development.

The island countries appreciate China's efforts to uphold justice in the international arena for the legitimate rights and interests of the island countries and to speak out for them in global affairs, such as climate change response.

China will forever remain a trustworthy strategic partner of the island countries, Wang stressed.

Regarding the next priority for China's cooperation with Pacific island countries, he said new and extensive consensuses have been reached to deepen pragmatic cooperation.

Firstly, both sides will work together to tackle climate change, which is the most pressing challenge facing the island countries.

Secondly, efforts will be made to help island countries promote diversified development, which is an inevitable course for them to achieve modernization.

Thirdly, both sides should join hands and do a good job of blue economy, which is key to the sustainable development of the island countries.

Fourthly, the cooperation should facilitate the expansion of emerging industries such as digital economy, which will be a growth point for the island countries' economy in the future.

Wang reiterated that China's cooperation with Pacific island countries is open, transparent and aboveboard.

In the cooperation there are no political strings attached and no imposition on others. The cooperation neither targets any third party nor seeks so-called "sphere of influence", Wang said, stressing that it can withstand the test of time and history.

He said China is ready to help and support Pacific island countries in their historical mission of accelerating development and achieving rejuvenation.

The second China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers' Meeting, which was held in Fiji on May 30, was the first of its kind held in a Pacific island country since the establishment of the mechanism in 2021.

All parties to the meeting spoke positively of the mutually beneficial cooperation with China as well as China's contribution to safeguarding the region's peace and stability and boosting its development and prosperity.

New consensuses were reached at the meeting, after which China released its Position Paper on Mutual Respect and Common Development with Pacific Island Countries, listing 15 principle proposals and 24 specific measures highly valued by the island countries, Wang said.

He noted that China's cooperation with Pacific island countries has been proceeding with bilateral cooperation as the main channel, and meanwhile with island countries-desired collective dialogue via foreign ministers' meeting in order to broaden communication and coordination to form greater synergy.

China also attaches importance to communicating with the Pacific Islands Forum and other regional organizations, Wang said, and foresaw a vibrant situation of "two-wheel driving" for China's relations with Pacific island countries with bilateral cooperation as the main channel and multilateral cooperation as the new platform.

China has no intention of scrambling for influence with any other countries and no interest in geopolitical rivalry, Wang said, adding that China respects the relations of Pacific island countries with other countries and the existing traditional bond of Australia and New Zealand with Pacific island countries.

China has launched productive tripartite cooperation with Australia and New Zealand in the island countries, which has been supported and welcomed by the island partners.

Pacific island countries, Wang said, are located in the southward extension of the Belt and Road and are important partners in Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) cooperation.

China has signed the memorandum of understanding on Belt and Road cooperation with all of the 10 Pacific island countries with diplomatic ties, and inked BRI cooperation plans with Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu, Wang said.

During Wang's tour, China also signed an implementation plan on Belt and Road cooperation with Kiribati, and achieved the outcomes of 52 bilateral cooperation deals with the island countries, which cover 15 areas including climate change response, fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, disaster prevention and mitigation, green development, healthcare and tourism.

Wang said China announced to build platforms of cooperation with Pacific island countries at the foreign ministers' meeting last year, i.e. the Climate Change Cooperation Center, the Poverty Reduction and Development Cooperation Center, and the Reserve of Emergency Supplies.

The Reserve of Emergency Supplies has facilitated Tonga's reconstruction after being hit by volcanic eruptions in January this year and has helped the island countries fight against the pandemic.

At this year's foreign ministers' meeting, China unveiled the platforms of the China-Pacific Island Countries Demonstration Center for Agricultural Cooperation, Disaster Preparedness and Mitigation Cooperation Center, and Juncao Technology Demonstration Center, to which the island countries have warmly responded. They also expressed willingness to actively participate in the platforms.

The six new cooperation platforms are tailored to meet the needs and conditions of the island countries. China is ready to mobilize more resources within this framework to conduct personnel training and launch demonstration projects in Pacific island countries to benefit their people.

Wang visited the Pacific island countries of the Solomon Islands, Kiribati, Samoa, Fiji, Tonga, Vanuatu, and Papua New Guinea, as well as Timor-Leste. 
Josh Brolin, who is James Brolins son, has found success separate from his fathers fame. He appeared in a number of movies, including No Country for Old Men, True Grit, Men in Black III, Sicario, Dune, and so many others. But the big bucks come from his two roles in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU): the supervillain Thanos and his role as Cable in Deadpool 2.Brolin starred as Thanos in several Avengers movies, including Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame, with two uncredited appearances in Guardians of the Galaxy and a post-credits scene in Avengers: Age of Ultron.In real life, he couldnt be further away from the purple supervillain who wanted to take over the universe. In fact, according to his Instagram account, hes a pretty normal guy. One with a $45 million net worth, but still. Yet Brolin is not one to casually flaunt his wealth, and his posts focus on promoting his work, causes he believes in, and showing his life with his wife, actress Kathryn Boyd Brolin, and their two children.But Josh Brolin is also an avid motorcycle fan. His latest Instagram Stories posted on June 4 shows one of the motorcycles in his collection, a 1937 Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead , which he seems to have named The Sage.The actor worked with Wisco Speed Shop for the project, an auto repair shop that deals with vintage Harley choppers. Its official Instagram account previously gave us a look at the motorcycle back in early March, and it looks badass.Not long ago, on April 23, the actor appeared on the cover of Choppers Magazine, with a picture shot by his own wife. On the cover, the actor rides a 1968 Shovelhead built by the same Wisco Speed Shop.
Palmdale, CA (93550)

Today

Sunny skies with gusty winds developing later in the day. High around 100F. WNW winds at 5 to 10 mph, increasing to 20 to 30 mph..

Tonight

Mostly clear skies. Low around 65F. Winds WSW at 15 to 25 mph.
Palmdale, CA (93550)

Today

Sunny skies with gusty winds developing later in the day. High near 100F. W winds at 5 to 10 mph, increasing to 20 to 30 mph..

Tonight

Mainly clear. Low near 65F. Winds WSW at 15 to 25 mph.
Robert Price is a journalist for KGET-TV. His column appears here on Sundays; the views expressed are his own. Reach him at robertprice@kget.com or via Twitter: @stubblebuzz.
Bakersfield, CA (93308)

Today

Sunny, along with a few afternoon clouds. High around 95F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Mostly clear skies. Low around 70F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.
ADEN, Yemen, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Yemen's internationally-recognized government and the Houthi rebels on Sunday began their second round of talks over the opening of blocked roads in Taiz city, a government diplomat told Xinhua.

"Delegations representing the Yemeni government and the Houthi group began a new round of face-to-face negotiations under the auspices of the United Nations in Jordan's capital Amman," said the diplomat on the condition of anonymity.

With the supervision of UN Special Envoy for Yemen Hans Grundberg, the warring sides were actively involved in negotiations over lifting the years-long siege imposed by the Houthis on the strategic city of Taiz in southwestern Yemen, he added.

There are no official comments yet from the United Nations, the Yemeni government or the Houthis.

The first round of talks on Taiz concluded on May 29 in Amman without reaching any agreement.

Yemen's warring parties entered a two-month UN-brokered truce on April 2, which includes allowing commercial flights to and from the Houthi-held capital Sanaa and the entry of fuel ships into the Houthi-held port Hodeidah and lifting the siege of the government-held Taiz city.

The warring parties have largely held the truce, but have yet to reach a final agreement on lifting the siege of Taiz.

On Tuesday, the warring parties renewed the truce for another two months, allowing more time for them to sort out persisting disagreements.

Yemen fell into a civil war in late 2014 when the Iran-backed Houthi militia seized control of several northern provinces and forced the Saudi-backed Yemeni government out of Sanaa.

The war has killed tens of thousands of people, displaced 4 million, and pushed the country to the brink of starvation. 
Washington Coast Free State Park Days June 11, 12 and 19

Published 06/03/22 at 4:55 PM PST

By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff

(Washington Coast)  Now you can get just a little more from your vacation.

A handful of Washington coast parks require a Discover Pass or a $10 fee per day for entrance, but three days in June will be freebies, according to Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission. Three one-of-a-kind national holidays bring on the need for celebration, with no usual fees or passes required. Saturday, June 11 is National Get Outdoors Day; Sunday, June 12 is Free Fishing Day and Sunday, June 19 honors the African-American / history celebration of Juneteenth. (Photo of Cape Disappointment courtesy Kris Hurl, Washington King Tides)

Thus, June 11, 12 and 19 will be free at Washington coast (and inland) parks that normally require a Discover Pass for vehicles to enter recreation lands managed by state agencies. It's not unlike some celebrations and free fishing or state park days on the Oregon coast.

Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. It officially became a federal holiday on June 17, 2021, and now marks an annual free day for state lands.

When the Washington legislature created the Discover Pass, it added there would be some free park days  up to 12 per year. Normally, vehicles entering some Washington State Parks for the day must display a Discover Pass on their vehicles (which are $30 for the year) or the one-day permit.

Parks on the Washington coast requiring these include Twin Harbors, Westport Light near Westport, Bottle Beach, Leadbetter Point, Cape Disappointment and Fort Columbia  the latter two are adjacent to the Oregon coast.

These free days do not mean free camping at these beach spots. Overnight visitors in state parks are charged fees for camping and overnight accommodations. Day access is included in the overnight fee.

There are four more free state park days coming up in great Washington and its coast:

Saturday, Sept. 24  National Public Lands Day

Monday, Oct. 10  World Mental Health Day

Friday, Nov. 11  Veterans Day

Friday, Nov. 25  Native American Heritage Day

One of the more dramatic beach areas that are free that day is Cape Disappointment, with its fiery, wild wave action that happens in winter. Above it there's the stately lighthouse and in the area is the distinctive, varied Waikiki Beach.



Westport Lighthouse, courtesy Washington State Parks

Westport Light State Park features another lighthouse nearby on Coast Guard property. There are towering dune grasses that line the sides of pathways to the beach, and it's there you'll find a long stretch of sands that are perfect for horse riding or surfing. Half Moon Bay is in this area, and it's all a quick drive to the Westhaven Jetty, Grayland Beach or Bottle Beach State Park.

For information about the Discover Pass, visit www.DiscoverPass.wa.gov.





MORE PHOTOS BELOW













Bottle Beach, courtesy Washington State Parks



Westport Light State Park, courtesy Washington State Parks





Grayland Beach, Washington



Westport Light State Park, courtesy Washington State Parks

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Bassist Alec John Such, a founding member of Bon Jovi, has died at the age of 70, Jon Bon Jovi announced on social media today (June 5). A cause of death is as yet unknown.

We are heartbroken to hear the news of the passing of our dear friend Alec John Such, Bon Jovi posted. He was an original. As a founding member of Bon Jovi, Alec was integral to the formation of the band.  To be honest, we found our way to each other thru him  He was a childhood friend of Tico [Torres] and brought Richie [Sambora] to see us perform. Alec was always wild and full of life. Today these special memories bring a smile to my face and a tear to my eye. We will miss him dearly.

Born in Yonkers, New York on November 14, 1951, John Such played in an earlier band with Sambora, The Message, before ultimately joining Bon Jovi. In the early 1980s, John Such was the manager of what was then the Hunka Bunka Ballroom in Sayreville, New Jersey. It was there where he booked Jon Bon Jovi & The Wild Ones, seeing the potential of a young musician with a mission.

John Such brought Torres and Sambora into the band, while Bon Jovi brought in his childhood friend David Bryan, who had been a part of an earlier band, Atlantic City Expressway. The bands third album, Slippery When Wet, would end up selling 12 million copies and its follow-up, 1988s New Jersey, scored even more hit songs.

The record company used to lie about my age, John Such told The Asbury Park Press in 2000. I was 31 when I joined. I was a good 10 years older than the rest of the band. My sister eventually got really mad because the papers would describe her as my older sister when really she was younger.

John Such remained in the band before his departure in 1994. He was replaced by bassist Hugh McDonald, who became an official member of the band in 2016.

When I was 43, I started to get burned out, he said in that interview. It felt like work, and I didnt want to work. The reason I got into a band to begin with is because I didnt want to work.

At the time in 1994, Bon Jovi compared Suchs departure to that of Bill Wyman from The Rolling Stones.

They just grew in different directions. Its understandable  just because I want to continue making records doesnt mean everyone else has to, Bon Jovi said.

When the band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2018, John Such was reunited with the group and gave an eloquent speech.

When Jon Bon Jovi called me up and asked me to be in his band many years ago, I soon realized how serious he was and he had a vision that he wanted to bring us to, and I am too happy to have been a part of that vision, he said.

He continued: These guys are the best. We had so many great times together and we wouldnt be here if it wasnt for those guys. Love them to death and always will.

The band shared the clip of his speech along with a montage of John Such set to his signature song, Blood on Blood, a song on which he would occasionally take the lead vocal role at live shows.

Alec, you will be missed pic.twitter.com/ilfTeYyQhR  Bon Jovi (@BonJovi) June 5, 2022

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Bishop David Toups was on a plane to Florida, returning from his introduction to members of the Diocese of Beaumont as its sixth bishop, when he began sketching out the idea for his personal coat of arms. The symbol would soon marshal the crest representing the Diocese of Beaumont after his ordination on August 21, 2020.

Its a duty with which every bishop in the Roman Catholic Church has been tasked for more than one thousand years -- part of an ancient heraldic tradition dating back to the Middle Ages.

Theres a lot of continuity and deep symbolic significance to the practice, Toups said.

Just as families in Medieval times had a coat of arms to distinguish them in times of battle or celebration, bishops designed crests describing their life as they were called to lead their diocesan family, Toups explained.

Its a tradition of which Toups never anticipated being a part, until getting a call from the papal nuncio informing him that Pope Francis had appointed him as the next Bishop of the Beaumont Diocese, following the papal acceptance of then-Bishop Curtis Guillorys retirement after 20 years leading the diocese.

At the time, Toups was rector and president at St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary in Clearwater, Florida.

Hed been enmeshed in seminarian life and academia for roughly 20 years.

The move would require leaving the world of spiritual teaching for one of spiritual leading -- not just at one church, but at a consortium of 49 parishes within nine counties serving nearly 70,000 Catholics throughout the Golden Triangle.

His home base would be St. Anthony Cathedral Basilica, a historic site established in 1907 with roots dating back to 1879.

It was a life-changing move  one Toups asked to consider with consult from spiritual advisors.

What is there to consider? Toups recalls the papal nuncio asking. The pope has appointed you.

Toups reflected on his long-held favorite Biblical verse  For those who love God, all things work together for the good, Romans 8:28.

It happened to be my familys favorite verse, and the first verse I ever knew, Toups said.

Speaking with then-Bishop Curtis Guillory on a first visit, Toups learned that verse actually was the motto in Guillorys personal bishops crest.

It was then he knew the appointment was fate..

We call that a Godincidence, Toups said during his introduction to the dioceses community of priests on June 9, 2020.

As he set about creating the crest that would adjoin the diocesan crest, he considered his personal history, its roots ensconced in the Gulf Coast South and a spiritual life steeped in academia.

Toups had created a family crest years ago, so heraldry wasnt new to me, he said.

But one part would resonate with members of Beaumonts parishes  the motto.

Its unusual to carry over a motto from one bishop to the next, Toups noted, but it shows the continuity of Bishop Guillory and I. It was a beautiful sign of providence.

From there, however, the personal crests diverge.

Bishop Guillorys was set amid the colors of Africa  red, green and black  within which were set personal symbols, like a sprig of cotton referencing his descent from sharecroppers.

Bishop Toups crest would signify a story steeped in its own layers of symbolic figures and colors.

His background colors are red, yellow and blue, their meaning laid out in diocesan documents.

Red represents the color of blood, especially the blood of Jesus, which was shed for all in the ultimate act of love.

Gold symbolizes nobility, and the first virtue, faith, which helps us to believe in Gods plan of salvation.

The color blue symbolizes the separation from worldly values and the ascent of the soul toward God.

Silver is the second of the noble metals and displays as white, which symbolizes the purity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which all Christians share through the gift of sanctification.

Rules of ecclesiastic heraldry dictate that in a coat of arms, color cannot be laid upon color nor metal upon metal.

At top left of the crest is a golden feather set upon a backdrop of red. It is a plume fashioned into a quill  part of the ancient Dubs (Toups) family crest that serves as a reminder of familial lineage  but also nods to the fact that much of my priesthood was spent in academia, in the intellectual side of the church, Toups notes.

"the plume/quill represents the importance of the intellectual pursuit of the truth and (my) desire to be a shepherd faithful and true," he added.

Toups was inspired by Mother Teresas statement that she was simply a pencil in the hand of God, but it is he who writes.

Beside that image, in contrasting hues, is a red lion set amid a plane of gold.

The lion comes from a symbol denoting the diocese of St. Petersburg, where Toups was first ordained into the priesthood in 1997.

It also references his middle name  Leon, after his father - and therefore makes his coat of arms canting, or heraldic bearings that that represent the bearers name. The lion also symbolizes courage, which the Bishop asks of God to pour upon him as he embraces the Office of Bishop, according to Diocesan documentation.

At the bottom of the shield is a pelican -- a bird featured on the Louisiana flag of Toups youth in recognition of his Houma, Louisiana upbringing -- feeding its chicks.

Its silver wings spread amid a base of blue, and within its chest, three drops of blood sit below the dipping beak of the pelican as it prepares to feed its young.

In symbolic reference to the Eucharist, the pelican in times of famine would pinch its chest and feed the chicks from their own flesh so that they dont die, Toups explained.

The image, attributed to St. Thomas Aquinas, is a powerful and ancient symbol of Jesus, who, to prevent us from starving, serves us with his very flesh and blood. This image serves as the base/foundation of the entire shield to remind us all that the Eucharist is the source and summit of our lives as Catholic Christians, according to diocese documents explaining Toups crest.

On a personal level, the three chicks represent Toups, his 2 older siblings and the sacrifice parents make for their kids, he said.

Set amid a base of blue, its meaning elevates to one depicting Toups movement from an Earthly family to his larger family as a servant of God.

At the center of his coat of arms is a silver star.

It is a symbol of Mary, star of the sea guiding mariners to safety as patroness of storms, Toups explained.

Its a symbol not lost on any in the Golden Triangles history of hurricanes and devastating storms.

But it further represents Bishop Toups vow to entrust his new pastoral service to the protection and the guiding light of the Blessed Virgin Mary.and a prominent symbol of his new home in Texas, the Lone Star State, according to Diocese documents.

Following his installment as bishop, Toups personal coat of arms was adjoined to another that has long represented the Beaumont Diocese  what is known as marshaling in heraldic tradition.

The left half, or heart, of the diocesan coat of arms has passed down through six generations of paschoral leadership.

Its symbolism is worn on the garments of priests during diocese-wide services, like the Chrism Mass celebrated the Tuesday of Holy Week and is part of the imagery decorating the metal doors of the Basilica.

On a base of blue sits a golden vase inscribed with the Greek letters X (Chi) and P (Rho) - the monogram of Christ, the X meaning, the anointed one, Toups said.

Above are two flowers representing the Beaumont diocese's descension from the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston; a star in between references the "Lone Star State.

The vessel represents that which contains the sacred oils used for the administration of the sacraments, Toups explained, but also acknowledges the regions role as the origins of oil in Southeast Texas  a gold mountain, a Beau Mont.

Though the word originated from the maiden name of the citys founder, its symbolic meaning stuck and has its place in the intricate layered imagery of its subsequent diocesan nomenclature.

The bishop and diocesan coats of arms form a shield unified by a golden processional cross decorated with five red gems symbolizing Christs wounds during crucifixion.

Atop the cross is a green hat from which flows on each side a total of six tassles.

They represent the crest-bearers stature within the Catholic hierarchy.

Designing his coat of arms was merely a step toward Toups assuming his newest role in a journey of faithful service.

It was a learning curve aided by fellow bishops.

One steered him toward the talents of Renato Poletti - a member of the Italian government who dabbles in ecclesiastical heraldry as a hobby - to create the final design of his coat of arms from Toups early rough sketch.

Another bishop advised him toward a jeweler in Pittsburgh to create the Bishops ring that would bear the signet of his crest.

And it was Toups sister Vicki Sheaffer that suggested he use their parents wedding rings as the base metal for that piece.

It was all part of the heraldry that would lead to his installment as Beaumonts sixth bishop in a place he would now call home.

I feel very much at home here in Southeast Texas, Toups said, noting that a parish member created the crest-embroidered capes that now covers the shoulders of the servers aiding him during mass.

It was a nice little touch to his installment as the next bishop, Toups said, one making him feel welcomed to the community he now calls home  a home to which he felt called to serve.

I love being in a small diocese. Its like being the pastor of a large parish, and I feel like this is right, Toups said. This is where God wanted me to be.

kbrent@beaumontenterprise.com
A firefighter tries to contain a blaze at the B.M. Container Depot in Chittagong, Bangladesh, June 5, 2022.

A Saturday night explosion at a container depot near Bangladeshs Chittagong port killed dozens of people including firefighters and injured hundreds more, officials and witnesses at the scene said Sunday.

At least 25 firefighting units were called in to battle the blaze at the B.M. Container Depot in the Sitakunda sub-district of Chittagong, according to fire service and civil defense department officials under the Ministry of Home Affairs.

The cause of the blast  felt miles away  was not yet known, but hydrogen peroxide was stored at the facility where the explosion took place, officials said. Late on Sunday, firefighters were still battling the remnants of the massive fire.

So far 49 people including eight firefighters were confirmed to have died in the fire incident. At least 200 more people have been admitted at different hospitals, Dr. Md. Elias Chowdhury, the chief of Chittagong district health department, told BenarNews. He expects the death toll to rise.

We have been trying to ensure proper treatment of the injured persons, he said, adding, Many of the corpses were torn apart.

Rescuers carry a survivor of the Saturday night explosion at the B.M. Container Depot in southwestern Bangladesh, June 5, 2022. [BenarNews]

Md. Mominur Rahman, the Chittagong district chief administrator, told BenarNews that the explosion occurred at about 9:30 p.m. Saturday.

The B.M. depot is one of 19 private container yards near the Chittagong port, which handles about 98 percent of the container ships arriving in Bangladesh each year. Port officials said about 200 people worked in the depot.

Chittagong resident Abdul Karim said he traveled to the depot in search of his younger brother, Md. Monir, who was working there.

Monir talked to his wife, who is expecting, last night before the fire. I went to the Chittagong Medical hospital and other hospitals but could not find him, Karim told BenarNews before breaking down.

Khodeza Kabir, a resident of the Kumira Union neighborhood in Sitakunda, said she and others could hear the explosion about 7 km (4.3 miles) away.

Primarily we thought it was an earthquake because the ground was shaking. We learned that the explosion occurred at the container depot, she told BenarNews.

Mujibur Rahman, director of the BM container depot, a Netherlands-Bangladesh joint venture, said the cause of the blast had not been determined.

A victim of the explosion is carried from the depot in the Sitakunda sub-district of Chittagong, June 5, 2022. [BenarNews]

Our company will bear all expenses of the injured persons. We will also provide compensation for the victims, Rahman told BenarNews.

Chittagong district authorities announced the formation of a seven-member team while the fire service and civil defense have formed their own seven-member team to determine the cause of the blast.

The government formed committees to find out what sorts of explosives were at the container depot. But what have primarily come to know is that hydrogen peroxide was stored there, Nayeb Ali, the Bangladesh Department of Explosives chief inspector, told BenarNews.

Burned clothing and plastic debris litter the ground at the depot, June 5, 2022. [BenarNews]

Condolences from Hasina

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina offered condolences and called on authorities to promptly treat those injured in the fire, state news agency Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) reported.

In a message of condolence, she prayed for eternal peace of the departed souls and conveyed deep sympathy to the bereaved family members, BSS said.

In a Facebook post, the U.S. Embassy in Dhaka also offered condolences to those affected by the fire.

Smoke rises from the B.M. Container Depot following an explosion and massive fire, June 5, 2022. [Reuters]

Meanwhile, a member of parliament called for an investigation to determine if anyone is responsible.

Why were the chemicals stored with ordinary commodities? The chemicals should have been stored in a safe place. Who will take responsibility for the devastating fire, MP Harunur Rashid said.

Bangladesh has seen devastating incidents over the years including the June 2010 chemical warehouse explosion in old Dhaka that killed 117 people.

More recently, at least 52 died after a fire ripped through a juice factory southeast of Dhaka in July 2021 and at least seven died when a gas pipeline exploded in November 2019 in Chittagong.

Abdur Rahman in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, contributed to this report.
KOTA KINABALU, Malaysia, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Sunday had an interview with media after concluding his tour to Pacific island countries of the Solomon Islands, Kiribati, Samoa, Fiji, Tonga, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea and Timor-Leste.

Wang said China has always adhered to a diplomatic vision that all countries, big or small, are equal, and long advocated that no one should be left behind in achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.

Pacific island countries are now facing with more risks and challenges amid a prolonged COVID-19 pandemic, a weak global economic recovery and a turbulent international situation, Wang noted.

He said his tour, aiming to consolidate friendship, enhance cooperation, address challenges together, seek common development, and jointly build a better future with all Pacific island countries that have diplomatic ties with China, is one of peace, cooperation and friendship.

China is willing to work together with friends of Pacific island countries to well implement the important consensuses reached between Chinese President Xi Jinping and leaders of relevant Pacific island countries, and to be more united in walking side by side, firmer in supporting each other, and more pragmatic in carrying out mutual beneficial cooperation, Wang said.

China is also willing to make new contributions to boosting development, revitalization, peace and tranquility of the South Pacific region, and to build a closer community with a shared future between China and Pacific island countries, he said.

Noting that both China and Pacific island countries are developing countries, Wang said the two sides have broad consensuses, similar concerns and common missions.

Summarizing the connotation of China's policy on Pacific island countries, Wang said China adheres to treating others as equals, and to mutual respect.

The Chinese side always respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Pacific island countries, respects their people's exploration of development paths suited to their national conditions, and does not interfere in Pacific island countries' internal affairs, he said.

China also adheres to win-win cooperation, and to openness and inclusiveness, Wang said. China's cooperation with Pacific island countries is not targeted at and will not be interfered by any country, he added.

Noting that he carried out extensive and in-depth communication with 17 leaders and more than 30 ministers of 10 Pacific island countries that have diplomatic ties with China, Wang said he felt Pacific island countries' pursuit for development, desire for cooperation and expectation for China.

These Pacific island countries all hope to benefit from China's development to boost their own sustainable development, and want to expand exchanges and carry forward friendship with China and to consolidate public support for bilateral friendship, he said.

They all appreciate China for upholding justice in safeguarding Pacific island countries' legitimate rights and interests on the international stage, and for speaking out in addressing climate change and other global affairs, Wang added.

During the visit, China and Pacific island countries reached new broad consensuses on deepening practical bilateral cooperation, Wang said.

First, the two sides need to work together to address climate change, which is the most pressing challenge facing island countries. Second, China will help Pacific island countries promote diversified development, which is the only way for them to achieve modernization, he noted.

Third, both sides need to join hands in the development of the ocean, which is the key to the sustainable development of the island countries. Fourth, the two sides need to expand emerging industries such as digital economy, which will be the growth point of the island countries' economy in the future, the foreign minister added.

He said that the second China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers' Meeting is the first to be held in Pacific island countries since the establishment of the mechanism last year, adding there are other regional organizations in the region as well, such as the Pacific Islands Forum.

China's relations with the island countries will be driven by bilateral channels and new multilateral platforms, Wang said.

He also emphasized that China has no intention of competing with anyone for influence or engaging in geographical competition, adding that with an open mind and in accordance with the willingness of Pacific island countries, China is ready to continue to carry out more tripartite or quadripartite cooperation with Australia and New Zealand in the South Pacific region, so as to give full play to respective advantages of all sides and form greater synergy.

Located on the southward extension of the Belt and Road Initiative, Pacific island countries are important partners in the joint building of the Belt and Road, Wang said.

During his visit, China has signed an implementation plan on jointly building the Belt and Road with Kiribati, and achieved 52 bilateral cooperation results with Pacific island countries that have diplomatic ties with China in 15 fields including climate change, anti-pandemic fight, disaster preparedness and mitigation, green development, medical and health care, agriculture, trade, civil aviation and tourism, he added.

The senior Chinese official also said that during the first China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers' Meeting last year, China announced the establishment of the China-Pacific Island Countries Climate Action Cooperation Center, Poverty Reduction and Development Cooperation Center and Reserve of Emergency Supplies, which were warmly welcomed by Pacific island countries.

During the second China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers' Meeting, China also announced the establishment of the China-Pacific Island Countries Demonstration Center for Agricultural Cooperation, Disaster Preparedness and Mitigation Cooperation Center and Juncao Technology Demonstration Center, Wang noted, adding that once declared, the projects received warm response from Pacific island countries, who also expressed hope for active participation. 
Bennington, VT (05201)

Today

Showers likely along with a possible rumble of thunder this morning, then partly cloudy during the afternoon hours. High 73F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 100%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies this evening will give way to cloudy skies and rain overnight. Low 58F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%.
Berkshire Pride reminds residents of the love within their community, the need to stand up for LGBTQ rights

The festival returned from a pandemic hiatus with massive crowds and a new parade. Festivalgoers said this year's celebration shows how far the LGBTQ movement has come and why it's as important as ever.
After multiple tries to cross the U.S. border, and a lot of bureaucracy, this Ukrainian family who fled war is resettling in the Berkshires
State Sen. Adam Hinds speaks in April at Berkshire Community College. He did not receive enough votes at this weekend's Democratic party state convention to make a primary ballot for lieutenant governor.
ACCRA, June 5 (Xinhua) -- The leadership of an economic bloc in West Africa rejected a proposal by the military leaders of Guinea for a 36-month-long transitional period, the body's commission said late Saturday.

Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission President Jean-Claude Kassi Brou said ECOWAS delayed the implementation of sanctions on Guinea following a military coup last year because the Guinean leaders had asked for some time to present a timetable for transition.

"Meanwhile, the Guinean authorities have announced a 36-month transitional timetable. But the authority of the heads of state and government of ECOWAS considered that 36 months is not acceptable, and asked that consultations continue so we find a solution for this timetable," Brou said at a press conference held here following an ECOWAS extraordinary session.

He called for dialogue in Guinea to deal with the socio-political crisis between the government, civil society organizations and other organized groups.

On Sept. 5, 2021, Lieutenant-Colonel Mamady Doumbouya announced that his forces had arrested President Alpha Conde and dissolved the government and national institutions.

ECOWAS responded immediately by suspending Guinea's membership and announcing sanctions on the coup leaders. 
After a busy holiday weekend with relatively few flight cancellations, Alaska Airlines got through the first day of June with just two cancellations at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport as of Wednesday evening.

Given the experience in the previous two months, when hundreds of canceled flights left Alaska passengers stranded across the country, that's real progress.

Passengers with bookings on June 1 had been dreading a repeat of the chaos on April 1 and again on May 1.

During the monthly pilot schedule transition on each of those dates, Alaska's reserve pilots who had already flown to their monthly limitation were not free to fill in and pick up flights that were a pilot short. That produced a spate of flight cancellations.

But on June 1, the schedule was relatively smooth for Alaska passengers at SeattleTacoma International Airport. Two Alaska flights were canceled there and one more was canceled in Dallas.

One cancellation was caused by a mechanical issue with the airplane and two were weather-related.

That followed a frantic Memorial Day holiday weekend for air travel that brought problems with cancellations at airports around the country. Yet Alaska, Sea-Tac's busiest carrier, performed much better than rival Delta Air Lines in terms of flight reliability.

Alaska canceled 40 flights across its network from Friday through Monday, just 1% of its schedule, according to data from flight tracking company FlightAware. That compared with 7% of Delta's flights over the same period.

At Sea-Tac specifically, from Friday through Monday, Alaska canceled 27 flights, less than 2% of its schedule, while Delta canceled 55 flights, 8% of its Sea-Tac schedule.

No other airlines had significant cancellations at Sea-Tac over the weekend.

Delta's problems were across its network.

In a memo a day before the holiday weekend, Allison Ausband, Delta's chief customer experience officer informed passengers that the airline was stretched thin and was proactively cutting 100 flights a day from its schedule through early August.

She cited "increased COVID case rates contributing to higher-than-planned unscheduled absences in some work groups" as well as staffing shortages at vendors in addition to normal airline disruptions due to weather and air traffic control issues.

The result is "an operation that isn't consistently up to the standards Delta has set for the industry in recent years," Ausband wrote.

She added that the cuts should "improve operational reliability."

Delta passengers must hope that the flight cuts minimize cancellations ahead. The airline had four canceled flights at Sea-Tac on Wednesday.

Last month, in a video message sent to members of Alaska's loyalty program, CEO Ben Minicucci said "for June and beyond, we've made significant changes to ensure a high degree of reliability." He said Alaska was hiring and training 150 new pilots, 200 additional reservation agents and 1,100 new flight attendants.

"This, along with the reductions we've made to our schedule, will ensure we run an operation that you can count on," Minicucci promised.

If June 1 marks a real turnaround, it will be a first step toward recovering the great deal of passenger goodwill Alaska lost in the past two months.

2022 The Seattle Times. Visit seattletimes.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.




First up, Joe Biden is thinking about dropping tariffs against China. But theres a spy in prison this morning that helps us understand why he shouldnt. Ill explain.





Your second brief, If youre looking for a good paying job, you might consider being a CEO for a health insurance company. One executive made $142M dollars last year. Let's talk about that.





And as always, Im keeping an eye out for developing stories. Put this one on your radar. Mexican cartels are grooming American kids online and paying them cash to traffic illegals or run drugs across the border. Ill share details.





If you enjoyed this episode of the President's Daily Brief, remember to subscribe and listen daily at podfollow.com/pdb.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
CAIRO, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi pledged on Sunday to provide 30 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to African states in coordination with the African Union (AU).

"Allow me to humbly announce an initiative of providing 30 million doses of anti-coronavirus vaccines to our brothers in African states, hoping this will be coordinated with the AU," said the Egyptian president.

Sisi made the remarks at the opening of the first edition of Africa Health ExCon, a massive African medical exhibition and conference held in Cairo from June 5 to 7 under the slogan of "Your Gate to Innovation and Trade."

Egypt's state-owned vaccine producer VACSERA is jointly manufacturing Sinovac COVID-19 vaccines in cooperation with China's biopharmaceutical company Sinovac, with a future plan to become a regional center for vaccine production, storage and export in Africa.

The three-day conference is organized by Egypt's Unified Procurement Authority (UPA), with the participation of over 2,000 representatives of government health authorities from Africa and the Middle East, 350 companies from over 100 countries, as well as prominent medical figures, experts, professors and scientists.

In his remarks, Sisi encouraged cooperation among African countries in the medical field including pharmaceutical production, and invited international pharmaceutical firms to invest in Africa.

"Africa is a promising market," said the Egyptian president, stressing that about 65 percent of Africa's population are youth. 
Of all the people featured since 2016 on the ABCs ingeniously simple, award-winning Q&A program You Cant Ask That, models are a group that dont quite seem to fit the marginalised and misunderstood part of the description. Misunderstood, probably. But marginalised?

Dont they all have fabulous lives aboard super yachts, guzzling champagne and snorting cocaine? Thats one of the questions anonymously put to the nine participants of varying age, gender, size and ethnicity in this episode.

Chloe Maxwell: I have very fond memories of my time as a model. Credit:

Chloe Maxwell, the 1990s Jeanswest girl who went on to become a television and radio presenter, gives an impressively candid answer on the show. When approached by directors Kirk Docker and Aaron Smith, she jumped at the chance to reflect on her modelling career.

I have very fond memories of my time as a model. Certainly, given the chance, I would want to relive them at any moment, any time. Especially because my husband (former rugby league player, Mat Rogers) is so well known with his career, my kids dont really know a lot about what I did before them. We watched it and they loved seeing Mum talk about old times.
SEOUL, June 5 (Xinhua) -- The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) fired an unidentified ballistic missile off its east coast, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said Sunday.

The JCS confirmed it in a short statement without mentioning further details. 
The conversation always starts the same way. Someone pops up in an opinion piece or during a political interview and asks why Australia cant have rational discussions about nuclear power.

Boundless, cheap, emissions-free baseload power is there for the taking if an Australian government just had the intestinal fortitude to face down an unfeasibly powerful cabal of ideological greenies, were told.

The enormous protective dome over the top of the Chernobyl reactor building. Credit:AP

The call is echoed around the country by a handful of enthusiastic advocates and resonates in conservative political circles before fading out, sometimes after seeding the ground for yet another parliamentary inquiry on the issue.

With the Coalitions election loss the issue has erupted again. Victorian Liberal greybeard Michael Kroger lamented the lack of visionary policy. Asked by this newspaper what one might be, he proposed a nuclear energy program.
From bullet journals to outsourcing and auto-replies, theres no shortage of productivity hacks available for anyone desperate to free up some time or mental space.

But dive into a pile of productivity podcasts and articles too quickly and youre likely to find yourself overwhelmed by everything you should be doing and, if youre anything like me, end up simply continuing on the hamster wheel of tail-chasing tactics.

Theres no shortage of advice on productivity, but theres a simple first step that will lead you to your most productive self. Credit:iStock

Instead of attempting every strategy to work smarter not harder, productivity coach Donna McGeorge, author of The 1 Day Refund, suggests we all start with one simple strategy  identify our most switched on two hours in the day and dedicate them to our meatiest to-dos or most important work.

These two hours are to be treated as sacrosanct with no meetings, email replies or phone tapping.
The Canadian governments announcement that it will trial decriminalisation of drugs in British Columbia for three years may seem radical to some outside observers, but for those of us in the alcohol and other drug field its been a long time coming.

Ive worked in the alcohol and other drug sector for 32 years and Ive yet to meet a person in treatment who was deterred from using drugs because they were illegal.

The criminalisation of drugs creates stigma towards people who use them.

I have seen firsthand how the criminalisation of drugs creates stigma towards people who use them, which then becomes a barrier to seeking help. A criminal record can follow someone for the rest of their life, so they can never get a fair go, even after they stop using.

Australias official national drug policy is aimed at reducing harms from legal and illegal drugs. But its hard to reduce harms from illegal drugs while possession and use is a criminal offence.
Balgowlah mother Rachael Robinson has been living in limbo for months as she rents one of dozens of homes marked for demolition to make way for the multibillion-dollar Beaches Link motorway in Sydneys north.

Shes spent the past year not knowing when her family could be forced to leave their home on Dudley Street, where the state government previously said it would acquire 31 homes for the project. After a stressful 12 months, Robinson said she was relieved to learn construction of the underground motorway had been put off.

Were really pleased, Robinson said. Just from a personal perspective. I know theres a lot of people that want [the Beaches Link] because of quick access.

Good news for some: Rachael Robinson with her son Lewis on Dudley street, Balgowlah. Credit:Edwina Pickles

The Perrottet government has put plans to build the toll-road on ice, citing independent advice that several major infrastructure projects should be delayed due to surging construction costs and global labour shortages.
The platinum jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II  an unprecedented event  was celebrated in Britain over a four-day holiday with the Trooping The Colour, an incredible Royal Air Force flyover, four-year-old Prince Louis mugging for the cameras, the National Service of Thanksgiving, the Platinum Jubilee Concert featuring Diana Ross, Duran Duran and Queen, as well as seemingly a million street parties. Britain, as the joke went, was 98 per cent bunting.

In Australia by contrast: tumbleweeds.

Thousands of Britons turn out on the mall in front of Buckingham Palace to mark the Queens Platinum Jubilee. Credit:Bloomberg

Well, not entirely. While reporters scrambled to actually find Australians who were celebrating the occasion, the new Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, lit a beacon and said the two countries were no longer parent and young upstart. We stand as equals. More importantly, we stand as friends. We can all agree on that.

And on Saturday we honoured the longest reigning monarch in British history by renaming an island. No, it wasnt some sun-kissed tropical hideaway such as Great Keppel, but Aspen Island, which graces Lake Burley Griffin in the national capital and is home to the Carillon, the modernist-ugly bell tower the Poms gave us to commemorate Canberras 50th anniversary. The Queen opened it in 1970, so there was a nice synergy.
Nationals Leader David Littleproud has conceded the so-called gas trigger put in place by the Coalition to shore up domestic fuel supply wont help with the current crisis, putting the opposition in agreement with Energy Minister Chris Bowen, who says the trigger isnt a short-term measure.

Manufacturing groups have been calling on the federal government to activate the Australian Domestic Gas Security Mechanism (ADGSM) as energy prices soar due to a confluence of factors that include the east-coast cold snap, the war in Ukraine, and coal-fired power station outages, that are also putting gas reserves at risk.

Nationals Leader David Littleproud said the Coalitions gas supply trigger wont deliver a short-term solution. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

Speaking to ABCs Insiders program on Sunday morning, Littleproud said the trigger didnt need to be pulled if the government could pick the phone up with gas companies and come to a faster agreement with them about increasing the proportion of gas reserved for local supply instead of exports.

They do have the capacity to increase supply and thats where you need to have a relationship with them ... we can increase that supply now, Littleproud said.
Melbournes West Gate Tunnel project has been plagued by toxic soil, commercial disputes, lengthy delays and a $4.5 billion cost blowout. Now it faces another, albeit smaller, headache: a squabble over an advertising billboard that was knocked down to make way for the new road.

Advertising giant oOh!media is demanding $8.7 million for the loss of its billboard in Spotswood, in a dispute that has landed in the Victorian Supreme Court.

Melbournes West Gate Tunnel motorway wont be finished until late 2025. Credit:Jason South

The Department of Transport initially offered only $120,000 when it compulsorily acquired the land in 2018 to start building the tunnel, which will run under the Maribyrnong River and link the West Gate Freeway with CityLink at Docklands.

But the advertising firms lawyers at Arnold Bloch Leibler have claimed it was entitled to compensation for the destruction of its business at the site including 20 years of foregone profits from the huge display signs.
Tokyo: An 83-year-old Japanese adventurer has returned home after successfully completing his solo, nonstop voyage across the Pacific, becoming the oldest person to reach the milestone.

Kenichi Horie arrived in the Kii Strait off Japans western coast, completing his trans-Pacific voyage in 69 days after leaving a yacht harbor in San Francisco in March.

Japans Kenichi Horie waves on his sailing boat after his trans-Pacific voyage, at Osaka Bay, western Japan, Saturday, June 4, 2022. The 83-year-old Japanese adventurer returned home Saturday after successfully completing his solo, nonstop voyage across the Pacific, becoming the oldest person to reach the milestone. Credit:AP

It was the latest achievement for the octogenarian adventurer, who in 1962 became the first person in the world to successfully complete a solo nonstop voyage across the Pacific from Japan to San Francisco.

Sixty years later, he travelled the opposite route.
Latest News Westpac lifts variable interest rate First of the big four banks to move

How are Australians reacting to second rate rise? Home loan enquiries running hot, group says

Suncorp Bank is now offering eligible small businesses increased business loan terms up to 30 years.

This will be applicable for all SME transactions up to $3 million and is available now.

Suncorp Bank has also expanded its LVR ratios (80% for commercial and 100% for residential) and simplified its minimum document requirements. The previous LVR ratios were 70% for commercial and 80% for residential.

Suncorp Bank executive manager for broker partnerships Robynne Frost (pictured above) said SMEs were the priority and Suncorp had listened to their feedback.

Small businesses are bouncing back from this pandemic stronger than ever and were doing what we can to make it easier for them to grow, Frost said. More flexible business loans with increased loan terms will help support businesses with their working capital requirements. With the reduction to minimum documentation requirements, it streamlines the loan assessment process and makes it easier to do business with us.

Read more: Pepper Money prices first social bond

Suncorp customers who are interested in business lending can access more information at Suncorps website or speak with their dedicated SME BDM.

Suncorp Bank has also teamed up with OzHarvest, Australias lead food rescue organisation, allowing Suncorp customers to turn their grocery bills into nutritious meals for those in need through a new offering.

Suncorp Bank is now donating 25 meals to OzHarvest on behalf of every customer who opens a Suncorp Everyday Account.

When one of these customers spends $250 or more across five transactions at the supermarket within the first two months of opening the account, they will receive $25 cashback from Suncorp Bank.

To kickstart the new offer and in recognition of the loyalty of existing customers of Suncorp Bank, it is also donating 100,000 meals to OzHarvest.

Read more: Rising building costs means brokers must adapt

Suncorp Bank CEO Clive van Horen (pictured below) said the bank wanted its customers to feel good knowing that how they chose to bank helped create a brighter future for someone going through a tough time.

For every customer who signs up for a new Everyday account with us, well help OzHarvest deliver the equivalent of 25 nutritious meals to feed people and families in need, van Horen said.

OzHarvest national partnership lead Hally Lara said the Suncorp Bank campaign would help raise valuable funds at a time when food relief was in high demand.

Were thrilled to work with Suncorp Bank to raise awareness about our work in the community and provide extra meals to those who need it most during these challenging times, Lara said.
SEOUL, June 5 (Xinhua) -- The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) fired eight short-range ballistic missiles eastward, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said Sunday.

The JCS said in a statement that it detected the launches from the Sunan area in Pyongyang from around 9:08 a.m. to 9:43 a.m. local time, marking the 18th projectile launches by the DPRK this year.

It noted that the South Korean military has tightened surveillance and alert status against further possible launches while maintaining a full readiness posture in cooperation with the United States.

The missile launches came a day after South Korea and the United States wrapped up their joint maritime exercises near the Korean Peninsula mobilizing a U.S. aircraft carrier.

The maritime drills were conducted from Thursday to Saturday in international waters off Japan's Okinawa, involving the USS Ronald Reagan, a nuclear-powered U.S. aircraft carrier, as well as battleships of the two countries, according to Yonhap news agency.

The DPRK test-fired a suspected intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) and two other short-range ballistic missiles on May 25, a day after U.S. President Joe Biden wrapped up his Asian tour to South Korea and Japan.

The South Korean presidential office said that the National Security Council (NSC) meeting will be presided over by top presidential security adviser Kim Sung-han to discuss the DPRK's missile launches. 
THE MAN WHO BROKE CAPITALISM: How Jack Welch Gutted the Heartland and Crushed the Soul of Corporate America  and How to Undo His Legacy

Author: David Gelles

Publisher: Simon & Schuster

Price: $28

Pages: 272

In 2020 I published Evil Geniuses, a history of the ruinous transformation of the US political economy since the 1970s by the right and the rich. So I was psyched to read The Man Who Broke Capitalism. It sounded like a perfect case-study companion to my wide-angle chronicle, a book by a long-time business reporter now at The New York Times, focusing on Jack Welch, revered as the greatest CEO of all time, and General Electric, the company he ran from 1981 to 2001, two decades that shaped the world we inhabit today.

David Gelles describes unbroken capitalisms exemplary big companies in the 20th century that treated employees fairly and focused on long-term growth  such as GE. After the New Deal and the enormous unionisation it enabled, economic fairness increased significantly along with prosperity in the United States, as corporations, workers and the government enjoyed a relatively harmonious equilibrium, and worker pay grew in tandem with worker productivity. With a steady rise in earnings through 1980, GE was more profitable than all but nine other companies in the Fortune 500.

In the 1980s, as American culture and politics were suddenly celebrating money and robber-baronism with a new go-go giddiness, Welch was tapping into profound changes in the zeitgeist, Mr Gelles writes. An intellectual revolution had been coursing through academic, economic, legal and political circles, but no one had truly put this philosophy to work  until Welch. By means of all-out downsizing, deal making and financialization, he became the personification of American, alpha-male .

He instituted a series of mass layoffs, and enthusiastically industrialised even this process by rating every employee and then each year firing the lowest-rated 10 per cent.

As a maniacal deal maker, Welch oversaw the acquisition, on average, of one $130 million company every week for 20 years, and sold off a business every two weeks. And, man, did he financialise. This was the one area in which he made sure GE continued innovating  by reducing costs with his rank-and-yank regime, and turning GE into essentially a giant, unregulated bank that used more and more of its profits to buy up its own stock.

Welch (who died in 2020) was quick-witted, and coiled with energy, a cursing, kinetic tornado of a man who wore jeans and rolled-up shirt sleeves whenever he could get away with it. And also, no surprise, a jerk  heavy on yelling and short on empathy.

While Mr Gelless basic takes are all correct, theyre also basic, in the new, pejorative sense: unsurprising, unoriginal, conventional wisdom conventionally expressed, passable in thousand-word pieces of journalism but not at book length. Welch himself comes across as a stick figure. For instance, exactly how does the son of a union railroad conductor who preferred chatting up machinists to sitting in a boardroom become such an enthusiastic generalissimo in the class war? No explanation. Likewise, Mr Gelles mentions Welchs 2012 tweet alleging that a decline in the unemployment rate was a fiction constructed by Barack Obamas Labour Department to help him win re-election, which Fox News and The New York Post and Donald Trump instantly repeated. But again, no explanation of why this reality-based engineering PhD and CEO had become an alternative-facts conspiracy nut.

When Mr Gelless thinking isnt warmed over, its often half-baked. He properly blames the press and US intelligentsia for celebrating increased shareholder value as if it were a major medical breakthrough, but he also uncritically equates companies success and failure with their stock prices. By 1987, he writes, shares in the company had risen a full 250 per cent from the time Welch took over, and in 2001 were worth $600 billion  making GE the most valuable company in the world. And his successor is a bust because during his time running GE it was the worst-performing stock in the Dow. So why are share prices an inferior metric to earnings, and what is the problem with funnelling corporate earnings into stock buybacks? Mr Gelles doesnt really provide answers. One of the books main arguments is that after Welch left GE his strategies ultimately destroyed what he loved so dearly. But if so, why havent all the other companies still practising those crazily financialised anti-worker strategies also been punished by the stock market?

Jack Welch was unquestionably an emblematic figure in Americas paradigm shift, but Mr Gelles takes his book title too literally.  in America, he writes was working well right up until 1981, when Jack Welch broke it.

After 200 pages of a lot of ham-handed critique, Mr Gelles devotes most of his last 30 to a fairly ham-handed celebration of the chief executives of Unilever and Paypal and the other lonely voices in the business world  in particular the founder of the billionaire-convening World Economic Forum in Davos  who call for a more holistic approach to . He finishes with boilerplate progressive prescriptions: renounce the toxic myths that allowed our current system to become so horribly imbalanced, improve pay and benefits, make a habit of distributing profits to workers, enact higher taxes on big business and a wealth tax on the very richest individuals. Yes, absolutely, great  but Mr Gelles doesnt begin to suggest how or if any of those reforms might come to pass, because nowhere has he closely examined the entrenched and powerful political foundations of the system his book is about.
(SII) is getting ready to work with its US partner Novavax on an Omicron variant specific vaccine for Covid-19 that would be different from the original shot developed by the US major using the Wuhan strain of the Sars-CoV-2 virus.

The Pune-based company has also got a nod from the Indian drug regulators office to manufacture trial batches of this vaccine for the purpose of testing, sources indicated.

SII did not wish to comment on the matter.

Sources, however, indicated that the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) has approved the manufacture of this Sars-CoV-2 spike protein recombinant nano-particle vaccine for examination, test, and analysis. Globally, Novavax is testing this Omicron BA.1 specific vaccine as a booster after two shots of mRNA vaccine.

The company has indicated in the first quarter earnings call that it has reached a major milestone in its pathway to an emergency use authorisation from the US Food and Drugs Administration and a Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee (VRBPAC) meeting is now set for June 7, following successful completion of an inspection of the manufacturing site at SII. Novavax expects an approval from the for its Covid-19 vaccine this summer. The vaccine has already been approved in Indonesia and as Covovax in India.

However, the company is developing a vaccine using the Omicron strain as the Sars-CoV-2 virus has mutated from the original Wuhan strain. Omicron has hit over 60 countries in the world and is now the dominant strain in circulation.

Novavax is planning two types of Omicron vaccines  a monovalent and a bivalent option  and these are expected to be in the clinic (in clinical trials) later this month. Stanley C. Erck, president and CEO of Novavax, said in the first quarter earnings call that they are advancing an Omicron monovalent and bivalent option and it is expected to be in clinic later this month. Erck said it is advancing its Covid-19 influenza combination vaccine through a phase 1 and 2 trial with the goal to advance this candidate into a phase 2 trial before the end of this year.

Novavaxs Omicron specific vaccine is called NVX-CoV2515 that uses the Omicron BA.1 strain. The company has said it induces superior antibody responses against the Omicron variant compared to its Wuhan prototype vaccine  NVX-CoV2373. There is also a bivalent vaccine containing both NVX-CoV2515 and NVX-CoV2373.

Last week, it said it is initiating a randomised, blinded trial in Australia over 1,340 participants to assess the bivalent vaccine after two shots of either the Pfizer or Moderna mRNA shots.

India has not allowed any mRNA vaccine so far. An indigenous candidate from Gennova Biopharma, another Pune-based company, is awaiting a nod from the DCGI.

SII would need to generate safety and immunogenicity data for the Omicron specific vaccine before it can seek the DCGI nod
is gearing up to strengthen its R&D with fresh hiring as well as upskilling of the current employees this fiscal year in order to scale up capabilities across various business verticals, including the electric vehicle segment, as per a top company official.

In the EV space, the company is looking to enhance its expertise in the area of battery packs and vehicle architecture, among others.

"As far as hiring in R&D is concerned we are going for major hiring, especially this year, but there is also another area which we have looked into very deeply and that is upskilling the current engineers within R&D," President Passenger Vehicle and Shailesh Chandra said in an analyst call.

It is going to be a big component of how the company is planning to really expand its R&D base, he added.

The Mumbai-based auto major, in line with its growth aspirations and business plans for the next few years, is hiring across various verticals like advanced engineering, product development, supply chain, operations and commercial functions at different levels.

Chandra noted that there would be enhanced collaborations with other group entities, including JLR going ahead to enhance capabilities.

"There is a lot of collaboration which will happen with various Tata companies, including JLR. So capabilities will not be only... limited to within Tata Motors, but also seeing the opportunities of synergies with JLR as well as other Tata companies, which have a lot of capability in the area of softwares. So, these are the areas where we are focusing on," Chandra stated.

In the EV space, Chandra said the company has started to develop capabilities in the area of battery packs, motor design, new architectures, among other critical functionalities.

On a query regarding synergies in the EV space, he said: "We have really looked at each of the segments in CVs as well as PV, fleet as well as the personal segment, and we are trying to see where potential synergies can be in the area of motor as far as in the area of batteries, especially the chemistry that we would like to choose, the form factors and as well as the CE rating because of the fast-charging capability and all."



There are certain areas where the auto major has seen convergence, especially small commercial vehicles and the fleet segment and PVs, Chandra said.

"There are certain commonalities that we have seen in the low voltage category... we have taken a view of our next four years, five years. And we clearly have certain alignments as far as the choice of chemistry is concerned," he added.

Chandra further said: " So it's an ongoing exercise as of the year going, we are expanding, different segments require different kinds of choices to be made, different power ratings and therefore, there are areas of synergies, but also areas where we have to be different."



He noted that when the company started its EV business, it hired an offline arrangement of fitting EV powertrains which used to lead to capacity issues.

"But for all our products, now we have integrated in our main assembly line. So literally, we can fully convert the ICE (internal combustion engine) capacity into EV, so internal capacity is not an issue," Chandra stated.

The company also has a very comprehensive plan based on the volume projections, to add new lines in the area of battery packs, driveline and power electronics items, he stated.

"So as far as capacity is concerned, we are absolutely on track, something which is really stopping, also restricting us to unleash the pull potential of demand that is out there is the issue of semiconductors," Chandra 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.)
At least 24 people were killed after a bus carrying pilgrims fell into a gorge near Damta on the Yamunotri Highway in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi district on Sunday, police said.

The bus had around 30 pilgrims from Panna district of Madhya Pradesh and a driver. The accident took place between Damta and Barnigad, which is around 70 km from Yamunotri Dham at around 7.15 p.m., after the driver allegedly fell asleep at the wheel. It was said that this was his third trip without a rest.

So far the bodies of 24 pilgrims have been retrieved while six others injured are undergoing treatment at Damta Primary Health Centre for first aid.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed grief over the accident. He said, "The in is extremely painful. I express my condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. The local administration under the supervision of the state government is doing all possible help..."

The Prime Minister has also announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each from PMNRF for the next of kin of those who lost their lives in the accident in . The injured would be given Rs 50,000 each.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has also expressed his grief at the loss of lives in the accident and spoken to Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami.

"It is very sad to hear about the bus of devotees falling into the gorge in Uttarakhand.

I have spoken to the chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. Local administration and SDRF teams are engaged in rescue work and the injured are being taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. NDRF is also reaching there soon," the Union Home Minister tweeted.

"The death of pilgrims, from Panna district, after their bus fell into a gorge in Uttarakhand, is unfortunate. Our team is in constant touch with the Uttarakhand government. Arrangements are being made for the treatment of the injured and to bring back the bodies," tweeted Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.

Meanwhile, the Uttarakhand Chief Minister has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the accident.

Dhami reached the disaster control room at Secretariat to take stock of the relief and rescue operations. Expressing grief over the accident, the Chief Minister has directed the district administration to carry out relief and rescue work expeditiously. He also instructed officials to make arrangements for proper treatment of the injured.

It was learnt that SDM, Badkot tehsildar, SDRF, police and ambulance have been deployed to the spot.

The Uttarakhand Transport Department has announced a compensation of Rs 1 lakh each to the dead and Rs 40,000 to the seriously injured.
The organised a protest at Jantar Mantar in Delhi on Sunday against the recent spurt in targeted killings in Kashmir and slammed the BJP-led Union government for the situation



Several AAP workers and leaders, including Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, Environment Minister Gopal Rai, Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh and other MLAs attended the 'Jan Aakrosh Rally' and raised anti-BJP slogans.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will address the rally later in the day.

The Kashmir Valley has seen eight targeted killings by terror groups especially Lashkar-e-Taiba whose victims included non-Muslims, security personnel, an artist and local civilians.

Scores of Kashmiri Pandits, who were employed under a prime minister's package in 2012, have been staging protests threatening mass exodus since the killing of Rahul Bhat, who was shot dead by terrorists on May 12 in the Chadoora area of Budgam district in central Kashmir.

At the AAP rally in Janrat Mantar, Sanjay Singh that in the 1990s a BJP-backed government was in power and now the Narendra Modi government is in power with a full majority when Kashmiri Pandits are being "forced" to leave the Valley.

The Valley has been witness to the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits in the 1990s.

The AAP demanded the Kashmiri Pandits be given adequate security and their voices be heard. The party has been raising the issue of "targeted killings" of Kashmiri Pandits for the past few weeks.

Two persons -- a bank employee and a brick kiln labourer -- were killed in Kashmir on June 2 while another labourer was injured in two separate incidents.

A woman teacher from the Samba district of the Jammu region was shot dead by terrorists at a school in south Kashmir's Kulgam district on May 31. On May 18, terrorists had entered a wine shop at Baramulla in North Kashmir and threw a grenade, killing one person from the Jammu region and injuring three others.

Policeman Saifullah Qadri was shot dead outside his residence in Srinagar on May 24 while TV artiste Amreen Bhat was gunned down in Budgam two days later.

Various political parties have attacked the BJP over the Kashmir situation and sought answers from the Union Territory administration over the spurt in targeted killings.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had on Friday said the situation in Kashmir is "extremely worrisome" and appealed to the Centre to ensure security for the people.

Before the rally started, Sisodia tweeted, "This period will be counted as the worst phase in the history of Kashmir. The BJP has completely failed to stop targeted killings and there is an atmosphere of panic and terror in Kashmir.

(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.)
In a bid to reduce vehicular pollution, the government is focusing on adding 2,000 to its fleet and also converting at least 3,000 diesel-run buses into CNG-powered vehicles in the next few years, state Transport Minister Firhad Hakim said on Sunday.

Around 80 are currently plying the roads of Kolkata, Hakim said, adding that a pilot project for turning 30 fossil fuel-run buses into CNG-operated ones has been completed, and the results are encouraging.

"We are looking for 2,000 and are hopeful to add these vehicles to the existing fleet in the next 3-4 years. At present, production of such green buses is less owing to lack of supply for lithium battery," Hakim, also the city mayor, said.

The core objective of the state transport plan is to reduce the use of fossil fuels, which will lead to a reduction in pollution and improvement of air quality.

Asked about the paucity of charging stations as a cause for concern, he said there are 76 such facilities.

"Urban transportation will soon become completely electric & old buses are being converted to CNG in full swing. We are committed to reduce our carbon footprint & I urge all citizens to join us in this battle for a better world for our future generations," Hakim tweeted earlier in the day.

Speaking on the use of compressed natural gas (CNG), a fuel that is less expensive than fossil fuels and environment-friendly, he said the department is planning to convert 30,000 diesel-run buses into CNG-operated vehicles in a phased manner.

"We have converted diesel engines to CNG ones in 30 buses and the trial run was encouraging. We are now planning to ramp it up to 3,000 buses. The government is also appealing to private bus operators to join this initiative," he said.

The state government has exempted registration fees, motor vehicles and other taxes for electric vehicles to facilitate faster adoption of green transport, the minister said on the sidelines of a programme organised by a civil society organisation EnGIO in association with Prabha Khaitan Foundation on the occasion of World Environment Day.

(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.)
In May this year, a group of scientists and conservation experts from across the world lay bare an unfolding catastrophe: Almost 50% of the world's birds are undergoing population decline.

The group released a report titled The State of the World's Birds which stated that barring 30 bird species of the 146 studied in India, all are declining.

"This (nation-wide study)," said Ashwin Vishwanathan, a researcher with Nature Conservation Foundation who also contributed to the report, "is the first step to be able to bring in any priorities regarding conservation or policy intervention for bird species."

Birds only make up a fraction of the fast-declining biodiversity--a living web of species and ecosystems that form the basis of life on earth. A 2019 report said that about one million animal and plant species of the world face extinction, and many could disappear within decades.

At least 97 mammals, 94 bird species and 482 plant species in India are threatened with extinction, as per the International Union for Conservation of Nature's red list of plant and animal species that have been endangered.

The current rate and scale of extinction is unprecedented. Yet, much of India's conservation priorities are misplaced, experts told IndiaSpend. These include creating protected areas by displacing local communities, who have been a part of the ecosystem for generations, or focusing on protecting big species, like tigers and elephants, often at the cost of other species that are equally in peril.

In December 2021, India's environment ministry proposed a draft amendment to the Biological Diversity Act, 2002. The amendment, if ratified, will dilute the safety regulations and lead to exploitation of biological resources for commercial purposes, we reported in February this year.

Ahead of the 15th Conference of Parties to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) to be held in August in China, and on World Environment Day, we outline why India--a long-standing party to the 1992 Convention on Biological Diversity, a multi-country agreement for conservation--must alter its action plan to reverse biodiversity loss.

Weighing the biodiversity decline

India covers 2.4% of the world's geographical area and accommodates 11.4% of the planet's plants (about 48,000 species) and 7.5% of its animal population (about 96,000 species), as per government data from 2011. The threat of extinction, however, looms over the better part of the country's rich biodiversity.

The reasons for the loss of biological diversity are varied. The 'Living Planet Report 2020' by World Fund (WWF) identified land and sea use change and overexploitation of resources as the key drivers of biodiversity loss across the globe, along with other causes including invasive species, pollution and climate change.

Freshwater biodiversity, according to a 2020 WWF factsheet, is declining faster than that in oceans or forests around the world. India has lost about one-third of its natural wetlands--that are home to migratory birds and large numbers of plants and fish species--to urbanisation, agriculture and pollution over the past four decades.

Bengaluru, one of India's biggest metropolitan cities, known for nurturing lakes within the city limits--has also recorded significant casualties. A crowdsourced data study by the Centre for Social and Environmental Innovation (CSEI) at ATREE, IndiaSpend reported in March 2022, found that Bengaluru has lost at least 208 of its over 1,350 lakes.

The problem with conservation plans

Over the years, the Centre has undertaken several efforts to conserve endangered species, by mandating protected areas for and setting up centrally sponsored schemes such as Integrated Development of Habitats, Project Tiger and Project Elephant for wildlife conservation and conservation programmes for wetlands and lakes, among others.

However, a former director of the Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History, who has been studying environmental variables that lead to species loss, P.A. Azeez, said that by focusing on big predator species, the government has diverted focus away from small endangered species, like toad-skinned frogs, that are part of the ecosystem of the predator species.

"Conservation should not be limited to the species level, but should be about the conservation of the entire ecosystem, including the local communities."

In the Union budget of 2022-23, the allocation for the centrally sponsored scheme, Project Tiger, launched in 1973, was increased to Rs 300 crore from Rs 250 crore in the previous year, while fund allocation for Project Elephant was hiked to Rs 35 crore from Rs 33 crore in the past year. The total funds for conservation of natural resources and ecosystems, including aquatic ecosystems, was decreased to Rs 58.50 crore from Rs 62 crore in 2021-22. However, the budget for biodiversity conservation was slashed from Rs 12 crore to Rs 8.5 crore.

This is despite the fact that in 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi released data announcing that India's tiger population had more than doubled over 12 years to 2,967 in 2018.

In 2020-21, at least 9.6% of the environment ministry's budget was allocated for Project Tiger, while only 3.7% (Rs 114.36 crore) was kept aside for environmental education and awareness. For research related to conservation and development, the environment ministry had allotted Rs 7.5 crore--0.25% of its budget.

The study and conservation of selective species come at a cost. Vishwanathan of Nature Conservation Foundation said, "In the case of Indian Peafowl, it was declared a bird and placed in Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, resulting in the increase in its population over the past 25 years."

"The increasing conservation efforts came at a cost--because the Indian Peafowl is a predatory species, a lot of other organisms, and even crops, were damaged as a result."

Vishwanathan, who has been monitoring population trajectories of different birds across India, said: "Previously, we were waving our hands in the dark, in absence of a clear trajectory on which species to protect. Thus, a lot of government and non-government effort and funding went into conserving species such as house sparrows, which were missing in big cities, but had a roughly stable population overall."

What India needs to do

Vishwanathan stressed on understanding the pattern of the biodiversity decline. "We constantly work under the sense that eventually a number of organisms are going to go, but our efforts really can be to understand which ones are going to go faster, understand their ecology, and understand what might be required to slow down these rates of decline."

"One of the recommendations we made in the State of India's Bird report of 2020 is that we need to move beyond a select few species to other species of high concern."

Another conservationist and founder of the NGO The Grasslands Trust, Mihir Godbole gives another example, "Studies on the population of wolves in India only cater to small sample area, because of which conservation efforts for wolves are also limited to a few areas--unlike the conservation efforts for tigers, whose population pockets across the country are evaluated and counted."

Both tigers and wolves are classified under "schedule I" of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 as endangered. Godbole's NGO focuses on research, protection and conservation of wolves in India.

While species loss is urgent, experts told IndiaSpend, strategies should not overlook the role of different stakeholders in conservation.

"The conservation paradigm in India is purely shaped by objective science without looking at the social dynamics, which includes the role local communities play, or the role of traditional knowledge," said Azeez, the former director of the Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History. "Unless we change our understanding, conservation will simply remain focused on species and their maths."

The Centre has cordoned 987 protected areas around the country, which are no-go zones, enjoying a higher degree of protection to preserve their biodiversity (flora, fauna and ecosystems). These include parks, wildlife sanctuaries and conservation reserves. The action divorces the local communities from these ecosystems, in oblivion of their role in preservation of biodiversity. While local communities from these areas are evicted in the name of conservation, such zones are often opened up for damaging industrial projects, IndiaSpend reported in its Environment Undone series.

An independent researcher of forest rights and environment governance issues in India, Tushar Dash said, "The Supreme Court of India earlier raised the issue that most of the protected areas in the country are notified without recognising the settlement rights of the tribal communities. The purpose of the Forest Rights Act and the Wildlife Protection Act, amendment of 2006, was to democratise administration and governance in protected areas, which actually never materialised."

"Initiatives by local communities cover some of the most important ecosystems such as forest, wetlands, coastal and mangrove ecosystems, all of which have ecological value, are adaptive and form the basis of local communities' livelihoods. For instance, there is a rich network of community forests and sacred groves in Orissa, which are havens of important species and are mostly protected and conserved by communities."

Underlining the need for effective implementation of law, Dash said: "The Forest Rights Act presented immense possibilities for communities to gain recognition and respect for their conservation initiatives and customary rights. But it is necessary to create an enabling legal and policy environment to ensure that conservation policies do not counteract or negate the Forest Rights Act and, instead, are mutually reinforcing."
Ahead of the commencement of the 43-day-long annual Amarnath pilgrimage, administration issued the dos and don'ts for the pilgrims urging them to "go on a morning walk daily and practice breathing exercises" to keep oneself fit at the high altitudes.

While specifying precautionary measures, Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Nitishwar Kumar said that devotees should go on a morning walk, do breathing exercises, must keep their warm clothes, food items and keep themselves hydrated.

The Yatra is set to start on June 30, 2022, and conclude on August 11, 2022, on Raksha Bandhan.

The remarks by Nitishwar Kumar, came after over 90 pilgrims lost their lives during the Char Dam Yatra in Uttarakhand since it began on May 3 this year, due to heart attack, mountain sickness and other reasons.

Speaking to ANI on Saturday, Nitishwar Kumar said, "The pilgrims who have done their registrations and are planning to do the same, must do the morning or evening walk for nearly 4 to 5 hours daily. This is a necessity to keep oneself fit as one comes at a very high altitude. The holy cave is at 12,700 ft while you do have to cross 14,000 or 15,000 ft in your way. Also, practice deep breathing exercises as there are oxygen shortages at such high altitudes."

Citing the occasional dip in temperature in the region during rains, the principal secretary suggested the pilgrims to carry warm clothes as a precautionary measure.

"The temperature dips to nearly 5 degrees when it rains during the yatra. So do bring your warm clothes with you keeping this in mind. Do bring a walking stick, jacket and eatables. Keep hydrating yourself to avoid dehydration," he said.

Notably, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, in an important meeting chaired recently over security situation, had discussed among other issues.

Meanwhile, the Centre has asked Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir and Odisha governments to take urgent steps to ensure that the ongoing Kedarnath Yatra and upcoming and Rath Yatra are conducted in a manner so as to ensure high levels of cleanliness.

In this regard, Secretary, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) Manoj Joshi has written to the Chief Secretaries of Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir and Odisha.

Notably, there are four holy shrines in Uttarakhand dedicated to Hindu Gods and holy rivers of India. The four shrines are situated within the Garhwal Region. These are collectively referred to as "Char Dham of Uttarakhand". In the Hindu religion, Char Dham Yatra holds great importance and sanctity. It is believed that every Hindu should undertake Char Dham Yatra at least once in a lifetime to avail the blessings of gods adorning the shrines. Haridwar is the traditional point to start the Char Dham Yatra of Uttarakhand. Badrinath Yatra commenced on May 8, 2022 and Kedarnath Yatra on May 6, 2022.

in Jammu and Kashmir is scheduled to begin on June 30, 2022, and conclude on August 11, 2022. Jagannath Rath Yatra in Odisha is scheduled to commence on July 1.

(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 DELHI, June 5 (Xinhua) -- The death toll in the boiler blast in a chemical factory in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh has risen to 13, officials said Sunday.

The blast took place Saturday at Dholana industrial area of Hapur district in Uttar Pradesh, about 86 km east of the Indian capital New Delhi.

"A total of 13 people have lost their lives so far in yesterday's blast," Medha Roopam, a senior local government official in Hapur, told media. "The forensic team has collected the samples and an investigation to ascertain the cause of the blast is going on."

According to reports, there were over 30 people in the affected area of the factory. The injured were undergoing treatment in the hospital, officials said.

Security cameras installed in the area captured the explosion. The impact of the explosion was so intense that the roofs of factories located in the vicinity were damaged.

Officials said it took around three hours for fire tenders to douse the blaze.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed grief over the loss of lives in the explosion.

Labor union leaders in India often accuse factories of ignoring safety standards vis-a-vis workers. 
Addressing the potential effects of climate change, a conference on Saturday highlighted the need to focus on adaptation and mitigation strategies for states like Jharkhand, to include them in the national policy discourse.

The conference, Building a Climate Resilient Jharkhand, was organised by ASAR and Policy & Development Advisory Group (PDAG) in Ranchi, deliberated on issues related to and its impact in Jharkhand, and the possible policy roadmap to ensure transition to renewable energy sources.

has the potential to show that even small can be big when it comes to building climate resilience, said Vinuta Gopal, CEO, ASAR while inaugurating the conference.

The conference brought together key stakeholders from the government, academia and civil society across India to deliberate upon three overarching themes - adaptation and mitigation strategies in Jharkhand, decentralised renewable energy systems and access to reliable energy and ensuring just transition.

The need is to leverage Local knowledge brought to light through knowledge co-creation from work on and interaction at the ground level. This will help build research that supports action and implementation of a climate change resilient Jharkhand, said Dr Anjal Prakash, Research director, Bharti Institute of Public Policy.





ALSO READ: Bonn climate change conference next week to set tone for COP27 in Egypt

The conference was divided into three sessions. The first session, "Climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies in Jharkhand", was focused on understanding the impact of climate change on broadly two sectors; agriculture and non-timber forest produce (NTFPs). The second session, "Decentralised renewable energy system and access to reliable energy' discussed the efforts being made towards decarbonising the world economy. And finally, "Ensuring Just Transition" talked about potential strategies and trade-offs related to phasing out of coal dependency, and transitioning to renewable power.

The session panellists discussed the IPCC findings as well and their relevance for Jharkhand, home to over 27 per cent tribal population which is heavily dependent on agriculture and NTPFs.

The session also deliberated upon the prospective role of Solar Policy 2022 in helping the state reduce its dependence on coal-based power.

The session highlighted the current social, political and economic barriers for just transition and focused on how existing government funds like District Mineral Foundation Trust can be utilised to provide alternative sustainable sources of livelihood to workers.
Live news updates: Indias envoy was summoned by the government in Qatar on Sunday amid outrage over comments on Prophet Muhammad by two BJP leaders, who were suspended after the controversy.

The BJP has taken action against spokespersons Nupur Sharma and Naveen Kumar Jindal, seeking to calm anger in Arab nations, where calls for a boycott of Indian goods and movies made for social media messages and trending hashtags.

HE Mr Soltan bin Saad Al-Muraikhi, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of the State, handed this note to the Ambassador of the Republic of India. The State of Qatar welcomed the statement issued by the ruling party in India in which it announced the suspension of the party's official from practicing his activities in the party due to his remarks that angered all Muslims around the world," said the Qatars ministry of foreign affairs in a statement, according to hindustantimes.com.

President Vladimir Putin warned the United States in an interview broadcast on Sunday that Russia would strike new targets if the West supplied longer-range missiles to Ukraine for use in high-precision mobile rocket systems, Reuters reported.

The United States has ruled out sending its own or NATO forces to Ukraine but Washington and its European allies have supplied weapons to Kyiv such as drones, Howitzer heavy artillery, anti-aircraft Stinger and anti-tank Javelin missiles.

Live news updates: Indias envoy was summoned by the government in Qatar on Sunday amid outrage over comments on Prophet Muhammad by two BJP leaders, who were suspended after the controversy.

The BJP has taken action against spokespersons Nupur Sharma and Naveen Kumar Jindal, seeking to calm anger in Arab nations, where calls for a boycott of Indian goods and movies made for social media messages and trending hashtags.

HE Mr Soltan bin Saad Al-Muraikhi, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of the State, handed this note to the Ambassador of the Republic of India. The State of Qatar welcomed the statement issued by the ruling party in India in which it announced the suspension of the party's official from practicing his activities in the party due to his remarks that angered all Muslims around the world," said the Qatars ministry of foreign affairs in a statement, according to

.

President Vladimir Putin warned the United States in an interview broadcast on Sunday that Russia would strike new targets if the West supplied longer-range missiles to Ukraine for use in high-precision mobile rocket systems, Reuters reported.

The United States has ruled out sending its own or NATO forces to Ukraine but Washington and its European allies have supplied weapons to Kyiv such as drones, Howitzer heavy artillery, anti-aircraft Stinger and anti-tank Javelin missiles.
Defence Minister will hand over 12 high-speed guard boats to during a three-day visit to the Southeast Asian country from Wednesday, in reflection of the growing congruence in maritime security cooperation amid China's increasing muscle-flexing in the region.

The defence ministry said Singh's visit to from June 8 to 10 is aimed at further consolidating the bilateral defence ties as well as the comprehensive strategic partnership.

It said the defence minister will hold extensive talks with his Vietnamese counterpart, General Phan Van Giang, with a focus on exploring new initiatives to further strengthen the defence engagements, besides exchanging views on regional and global issues of shared interest.

Singh is also scheduled to call on Vietnamese President Nguyen Xuan Phuc and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh.

Vietnam, an important country of the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations), has territorial disputes with China in the South China Sea region.

India has oil exploration projects in the Vietnamese waters in the South China Sea. India and are boosting their maritime security cooperation in the last few years to protect common interests.

"At the Hong Ha Shipyard in Hai Phong, the defence minister will preside over the handing over ceremony of 12 high-speed guard boats constructed under the government of India's USD 100 million defence line of credit to Vietnam," the ministry said in a statement.

"This project is significant in the context of the growing defence industry cooperation with Vietnam and exemplifies Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' and 'Make in India, Make for the World'," it added.

During his Vietnam tour, Singh will also visit training institutions of the country at Nha Trang, including the Telecommunication University where an Army Software Park is being established with a USD 5 million grant from India. He will also attend a community event organised by the Embassy of India in Hanoi and interact with the Indian diaspora.

"The defence minister's visit on the historic occasion of 50 years of establishment of India-Vietnam diplomatic relations and 75 years of India's Independence will further consolidate the bilateral defence cooperation and the comprehensive strategic partnership," the ministry said.

The relations between the two countries were elevated to the level of a "strategic partnership" during the visit of Vietnam's then prime minister Nguyen Tan Dung to India in July 2007.

In 2016, during Prime Minister Modi's visit to Vietnam, the bilateral relations were further elevated to a "comprehensive strategic partnership".

Vietnam has become an important partner in India's Act East policy and the Indo-Pacific vision.

Last week, Saurabh Kumar, Secretary (East) in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), visited Vietnam for the 12th round of political consultations and the ninth round of strategic dialogue in Hanoi.

(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.)
Almost three decades after the Supreme Court announced a series of measures to insulate the from environmental degradation, the question that continues to do rounds in "green" circles, and often asked by visitors: has the Mughal monuments become safe from air and water pollution?

International concern was first raised in the 1970s when the decision to site India's biggest oil refinery at Mathura was taken by the Indira Gandhi government. The PIL filed by eco lawyer M.C. Mehta in the apex court triggered a series of drastic measures to contain environmental pollution in the eco-sensitive Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ), spread over 10,400 sq km.

As the city celebrates World Environment Day on Sunday, local activists say there has been no fundamental change in the environmental conditions in Agra, Mathura, Firozabad districts that come under the TTZ.

Green activists say that water and air pollution levels continue to remain alarming.

Officially, we are made to believe that a dozen odd directives of the Supreme Court, on the recommendations of the Dr S. Varadarajan high powered committee, have had salutary effects on the environment in and neighbourhood, the ground "reality is vastly different", as would be clear by a close study of the data released by the state pollution control board.

"Air, water, noise pollution levels are alarmingly high, as high as they were in 1993, when the judgement came," says environmentalist Devashish Bhattacharya.

The local petha industry continues to spit fire, smoke and pollutants in the air, right in the heart of the city. Despite repeated complaints at various government offices and regulatory institutions, no action is taken against hundreds of polluters in the city, Bhattacharya added.

High level of noxious gases, suspended dust particles, emissions from vehicles, denudation of green cover to construct roads and houses, he said.

Due to high level of pollution in the city, tourism has been "badly hit" and the health of the local population is in "peril", activist Jugal Kishor of the River Connect Campaign said.

He said various recommendations of expert committees were gathering dust and the Supreme Court orders had been blatantly ignored.

In the past, a series of orders came from the apex court. But shifting orders for dairies, dhobi ghats, cremation sites, petha units, have been shelved. Transport companies emitting pollutants on the Yamuna Kinara Road, have not been shifted either.

Repeated pleas by environmentalists to free the Yamuna banks of encroachment have fallen on deaf ears.

The National Green Tribunal has been struggling with its orders on clearing encroachments on Yamuna flood-plains. After years of dilly-dallying even the boundaries of the flood plains have not been clearly demarcated, the campaigners complain.

Forest land in the Soor Sarovar area has been reduced as groups of vested interests managed to secure land for developing commercial activities. Local green activists have lamented the "apathy of elected Vidhan Sabha and Lok Sabha members towards the Yamuna, the lifeline of the city".

A dry and polluted Yamuna remains a constant threat to the safety of the Taj Mahal, according to the activists.

"Water in the Yamuna was required for the good health of historical monuments along Yamuna's banks, because the foundations need continuous moisture and a pollution-free ambience," Sonal Singh Mittal of the Braj Mandal Heritage Conservation Society said.

Despite repeated demands, the Yamuna Barrage project, downstream of the Taj Mahal, hangs fire, though some Rs 20 crore have been sanctioned for it in the state's 2022 budget.

Agra's major problem is the dry and heavily polluted Yamuna river. Though there have been repeated demands, no initiative has so far been taken to desilt and dredge the river bed, which had become hard owing to pollutants, mainly leather cuttings, polythene, domestic waste, industrial effluents, preventing seepage and percolation of water.

Environmentalist Chaturbhuj Tiwari said: "Though the Supreme Court had categorically directed ban on entry of cattle in the river and shifting of dhobis (washermen) polluting the river, no effort has been made by the district authorities in this direction."

Activists say that despite the tall promises made by leaders, the Yamuna continues to stink, flow polluted carrying all the toxic effluents and waste from Delhi and upstream cities. Forget human beings, even historical monuments including the world heritage monument, the iconic Taj Mahal, along its bank, are not safe as pollutants in the river not only create visual pollution but also endanger the protective eco-ambience in the vicinity.

The local administration claims more than 40 drains out of nearly 100 had been tapped. But the mayor Navin Jain, himself has sounded so helpless and has repeatedly pleaded with the government to take appropriate measures to save Yamuna river.

The problem is two-fold, qualitative and quantitative. One, the river is already dry, just a month after the fairly good monsoon rains this year. Two, what flows down in the river from Delhi is not water, but chemical liquids that kill even bacterias. This toxic liquid is emitting foul and noxious gases and corroding foundations of structures along the banks of the river.

Even after hundreds of petitions, memorandums, representations, demonstrations and democratic protests, successive governments in the state and at the centre, have been pathetically apathetic to demands for de-silting and dredging of river Yamuna in Braj Mandal, says activist and astrologer Pramod Gautam.

"We have been demanding a barrage or a check dam downstream of the for three decades now, but only promises have been made and no action," Gautam adds.

Tourists who visit the and other historical monuments are aghast to see the polluted Yamuna. Many even wonder why Mughal emperor Shah Jahan chose this site for constructing his dream project, according to tourist guide Ved Gautam.

Tourism industry leaders say Yamuna's good health is necessary for the safety of the monuments along its banks, in particular the Taj Mahal, whose foundation needs moisture round the year.

Without water the river is becoming a breeding ground for mosquitoes and insects that deposit their green excreta on the surface of the Taj Mahal, every now and then. This needs to be cleaned up periodically.

The biggest threat to the Taj Mahal is the polluted Yamuna which needs cleaning and uninterrupted minimum flow of water to keep it alive. Water in the river will not only enhance esthetics but also absorb pollutants and control the alarming level of dust particles in the ambient air (SPM), president of Lok Swar Rajiv Gupta says.

--IANS

brijkhandelwal/shs/ksk/

(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.)
An FIR has been registered against the owner and the operator of a factory in Hapur where at least 13 workers were killed and 20 injured in an explosion, police said on Sunday.

The incident took place at Ruhi Industries in the Dhaulana area on Saturday.

"So far, 13 people have been killed, while 20 are injured. The injured are undergoing treatment in various hospitals in Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad and Meerut," Superintendent of Police Deepak Bhuker said.

He added that 11 out of the 13 deceased have been identified and they are from Bahraich (Uttar Pradesh) and Bihar.

Inspector General of Police Praveen Kumar said the factory was licensed to manufacture only electronic goods, and an investigation is underway to ascertain how explosives reached there.

Police said they suspect that crackers were being manufactured in the factory.

According to Superintendent of Police Deepak Bhuker, factory owner Dilshad and operator Wasim have been booked under IPC sections 286 (negligent conduct with respect to explosive substance), 287 (negligent conduct with respect to machinery), 304 (culpable homicide), 308 (attempt to commit culpable homicide), 337 (act endangering human lives) and 338 (causing grievous hurt).

Three teams have been constituted to arrest the accused, he said.

The victims' bodies have been sent for post-mortem examination, the SP said.

District Magistrate Medha Roopam said an investigation is underway. "Factories in the area are being checked, and soon, the reality of the incident will come to the fore and strict action will be taken against the accused," she said.

At the time of the incident, there were around 30 people at the factory in the UPSIDC Industrial Area in Dholana, around 80 km from the capital, officials said.

The impact of the explosion was so intense that the roofs of some of the factories located in the vicinity were damaged. It took three hours for fire tenders to douse the blaze.

President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed grief over the loss of lives.

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Bollywood actor and his father Salim Khan on Sunday received an anonymous letter threatening to kill them, following which an FIR was registered by Mumbai Police, an official said.

On early Sunday morning, Salim Khan was sitting on a bench at the Bandra Bandstand, which is his routine, after a morning walk when an unidentified man handed him a letter which mentioned a threat to kill Salim and Salman, the official said.

Later, with the help of his security personnel, Salim Khan contacted the police and an FIR was registered under section 506-II (Criminal intimidation) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) at the Bandra police station.

Further investigation is underway, the official 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.)
will further relax Covid-19 curbs by allowing indoor dining, as China's capital steadily returns to normal with inflections falling, state media said on Sunday.

and the commercial hub Shanghai have been returning to normal in recent days after two months of painful lockdowns to crush outbreaks of the Omicron variant.

Dine-in service in will resume on Monday, except for the Fengtai district and some parts of the Changping district, the Beijing Daily said. Restaurants and bars have been restricted to takeaway since early May.

Normal work will resume and traffic bans will be lifted on Monday in most areas of Beijing, the newspaper reported.

Employees in some areas have been required to work from home.

Residents will need to show a PRC test taken within 72 hours to enter public spaces and take public transport, as part of steps to normalise Covidtesting, the newspaper reported.

Beijing reported 16 new local symptomatic cases, up from five a day earlier, and three new local asymptomatic cases, up from one, according to the local government.

Shanghai reported six new local symptomatic cases, up from five, and 16 new local asymptomatic cases versus nine the previous day, local government data showed.

Mainland recorded 162 daily cases, of which 56 were symptomatic and 106 were asymptomatic, the National Health Commission said. That compares with 171 new cases a day earlier  46 symptomatic and 125 asymptomatic, which counts separately.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
CNNs ubiquitous Breaking News banner is gone, now reserved for instances of truly urgent events. Snarky on-screen captions  Angry Trump Turns Briefing Into Propaganda Session, for instance  are discouraged. Political shows are trying to book more conservative voices, and producers have been urged to ignore Twitter backlash from the far right and the far left.

A month into his tenure as the new leader of CNN, Chris Licht is starting to leave his mark on the 24-hour news network he inherited in May from its prominent former president, Jeff Zucker. So far, the Licht Doctrine is a change from the Zucker days: less hype, more nuance and a redoubled effort to reach viewers of all stripes.

Running a network is a new challenge for Licht, a 50-year-old lifelong producer who has never led an organization as big as . (His last employer, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, had a staff of about 200 people; has roughly 4,000.) Some journalists say they wonder if he can navigate a sprawling, unwieldy global news network past what has been a no good, very bad year.

In December, the anchor Chris Cuomo was fired for ethical lapses, prompting an investigation that ultimately led to Zuckers ouster in February over an undisclosed relationship with a co-worker. Then, in April, the networks new owners, Warner Bros. Discovery, shut down the streaming platform CNN+ weeks after its $300 million debut. On the same day, Licht announced the prospect of hundreds of layoffs in his first formal address to staff.

Under Zucker, a micromanager who dictated headlines and whispered in anchors ears during interviews, the network developed an Audience of One culture. What Jeff Wants was the mantra, and that often meant spectacle and drama. Mr. Licht is now tearing up that playbook with a management style notably different from his predecessor.

Im not here to get into the weeds of day-to-day editorial decision making, Licht told employees on his first day. His more hands-off approach to coverage, and his sweeping pronouncements that CNN will challenge the traditional philosophy of cable news, have left his skeptics wishing for more specific direction from the top, not less.

Lichts early moves, and the mood inside the network, were described by several people with knowledge of the internal dynamics at CNN who would speak only on the condition on anonymity.

Licht is aware of the criticism. I am going to make decisions slower than some would like, he wrote in a newsroom-wide memo on Thursday. I know this organization has been through tremendous change over the last four months, which is why I am approaching this process slowly and thoughtfully as we look at all parts of the operation. (CNN declined to comment.)

One early focus has been morning programming, an arena that Mr. Licht knows well from overseeing Morning Joe and his successful retooling of CBS This Morning.

Licht told advertisers that he wanted to disrupt morning TV. Internally, he has said he wants a more inviting, conversational approach, and he believes CNNs main offering, New Day  which Zucker created  lacks a clear identity, three people said.

In coming weeks, he wants to create a roster of friends of the show who would make regular appearances on the program, the people said. Among those being considered is Audie Cornish, the former NPR host who had been slated to host a program on CNN+.

Licht also wants to revamp the Sunday night lineup, introducing a new talk show from the former Fox News anchor Chris Wallace, as well as a new long-form newsmagazine program.

Licht is intent on dialing back partisanship on the air, telling advertisers last month, At a time where extremes are dominating cable news, we will seek to go a different way. At a recent meeting in Washington with producers and journalists, Mr. Licht said he wanted to book more Republicans and conservatives on political shows to offer a wider range of viewpoints. Internally, he praised Dana Bashs recent interview about gun control with Representative Dan Crenshaw, a Texas Republican.

In some ways, Licht is working to undo the showman-like tendencies that Zucker, a former Today show producer, embedded in CNNs DNA over his nine-year tenure.
on Sunday successfully launched three astronauts on a six-month mission to complete the construction of the country's space station currently orbiting the earth.

The Shenzhou-14 spacecraft carrying astronauts Chen Dong, Liu Yang and Cai Xuzhe, was lifted off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest .

Minutes later, the official at the ground control declared the mission a great success, saying the spacecraft has reached its designated orbit.

The trio will cooperate with the ground team to complete the assembly and construction of the Tiangong space station, developing it from a single-module structure into a national space laboratory with three modules -- the core module, Tianhe and two lab modules -- Wentian and Mengtian.

The launch was telecast live all over the country.

The mission will build the space station into a national space laboratory, Lin Xiqiang, the deputy director of the Manned Space Agency (CMSA) announced on Saturday.

The Shenzhou-14 crew will work with the ground team to complete the rendezvous, docking and transposition of the two lab modules with the core module, Lin said at a pre-launch press conference.

They will enter the two lab modules for the first time and help make the environment suitable for their stay, he said, adding that they will unlock and install a dozen of scientific experiment cabinets in the two modules.

This is the 2nd set of six astronauts China has sent to build its space station.

Earlier, a three-member Chinese astronaut crew which included a woman returned to the earth in April after spending a record six months, building vital parts of the space station which is expected to be ready by this year.

They had completed the verification of key technologies of its space station, according to the CMSA.

Once ready, China will be the only country to own a space station. The Space Station (ISS) of Russia is a collaborative project of several countries.

China Space Station (CSS) is also expected to be a competitor to the ISS built by Russia.

Observers say CSS may become the sole space station to remain in orbit once the ISS retires in the coming years.

In February, China unveiled an ambitious plan for its burgeoning space industry which included over 50 space launches and six manned space flights to complete the building of its space station.

The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) said China will carry out more than 50 space launches in 2022, sending over 140 spacecraft into space.

Chen, who will be the commander of the new mission, participated in the Shenzhou-11 crewed spaceflight mission. Liu was part of the Shenzhou-9 mission and Cai is a newcomer to space, Lin Xiqiang, deputy director of the CMSA, said at the press conference at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre.

The trio will stay in orbit for six months, Lin said.

During their stay in orbit, the Shenzhou-14 crew will witness the two lab modules, Tianzhou-5 cargo craft and Shenzhou-15 crewed spaceship dock with the core module Tianhe.

They will rotate with the Shenzhou-15 crew in orbit, and return to the Dongfeng landing site in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region in December, Lin said.

China began constructing its three-module space station in April 2021 with the launch of Tianhe - the first and biggest of the station's three modules.

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Amidst a diplomatic row between and over the detention of an Aeroflot aircraft here, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has informed Moscow that the issue with the Russian flag carrier is not between two countries but a private legal matter, according to a media report on Sunday.

A senior Sri Lankan minister has also apologised to all the passengers and crew after the island nation's aviation authority prevented a flight of the Russian flag carrier to depart the Colombo airport.

The flight, scheduled to depart from Colombo's Bandaranaike Airport to Moscow on June 2 with 191 passengers and 13 crew members, was not allowed to depart due to an enjoining order issued by the Commercial High Court of Colombo, a statement from the Airport and Aviation Services said.

A spokesman from the Prime Minister's office told the Daily Mirror newspaper that Wickremesinghe did have a discussion on the issue with the secretary ministry of foreign affairs and advised him on what should be done.

Minister of Ports, Shipping and Aviation Nimal Siripala de Silva expressed his apology to the crew and passengers of the aircraft who were left stranded, the News First website reported.

He also acknowledged that the issue would make an impact on the tourism industry in Sri Lanka, in addition to the foreign exchange crisis.

is going through the worst economic crisis since its independence from Britain in 1945.

The economic crisis has prompted an acute shortage of essential items like food, medicine, cooking gas and other fuel, toilet paper and even matches, with Sri Lankans for months being forced to wait in lines lasting hours outside stores to buy fuel and cooking gas.

Minister de Silva said that due to the harm caused by the issue, the Sri Lankan government has decided to provide a legal framework in which all parties are granted fair judgement, despite the outcome of the case.

Therefore, he mentioned that the Attorney General will make submissions to court over the Aeroflot issue on Monday.

However, he emphasised that the issue is a dispute between two companies, and the state is not involved, in addition to pointing out that the state cannot impede any judicial proceedings.

Meanwhile, the Sri Lankan government has said it is working at the diplomatic level to resolve the issue.

However, the Russian airline decided to suspend its commercial flights to Colombo from June 4, after only eight months of operation.

Reports from Moscow suggested that the angry Russian government had summoned the Sri Lankan Ambassador to Moscow for an explanation.

The company owning the aircraft had pleaded in the court that Aeroflot was told not to fly the plane after the lease agreement came to be terminated in March.

However, Aeroflot continued to fly the aircraft between Moscow and Colombo.

In a statement, Sri Lanka's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said: The case relates to a commercial dispute between the Plaintiff, Celestial Aviation Trading 10 Limited an Irish Company against the first Defendant the Public Joint Stock Company "Aeroflot" and the second Defendant, Mr. N. C Abeywardene/Acting Head of Air Navigation/Airport and Aviation Services of (AASL), Katunayake.

The matter is still pending final determination of the court, it said on Saturday, adding that the matter is also under consultation through normal diplomatic channels.

Russia's official Tass news agency reported that Aeroflot has suspended its flights to Sri Lanka after authorities here did not allow its SU-289 flight to depart the Colombo airport.

The company also vowed that those passengers with tickets to Moscow for later dates would also be brought home as scheduled.

Colombo's Commercial High Court has banned the Airbus A330 jet from leaving Sri Lanka until June 16. A court hearing to lift the seizure of the aircraft is scheduled for June 8, the Tass report said.

Aeroflot has been impacted by Western sanctions on for its invasion of Ukraine. It is not yet clear whether the detention of the Russian aircraft in Colombo is related to those sanctions imposed on Moscow.

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DHAKA, June 5 (Xinhua) -- At least 14 people were killed and 187 others injured after a private container depot caught fire on Saturday night in Bangladesh's Chattogram district, some 242 km southeast of capital Dhaka, a senior official said on Sunday.

Chattogram district's chief administrator Muhammad Mominur Rahman told Xinhua that the death toll of has risen to 14 on Sunday morning. "Fourteen people including three firefighters were declared dead so far," he told Xinhua over phone.

He said at least 187 others, including seven policemen, suffered burn injuries in the devastating fire that broke out at about 8:00 p.m. local time Saturday at the private BM Container Depot Ltd, a Netherlands-Bangladesh joint venture company.

All the victims were rushed to different hospitals. Most of them suffered from mild to heavy burns, and the health condition of several others is also critical.

The district's administration chief said as many as 13 firefighting units have still been striving to put out the blaze.

The fire broke out in the container yard located in Sitakunda on the outskirts of Bangladesh's premier Chattogram seaport city.

As per preliminary information, the fire incident happened in one of the containers loaded with chemicals in the yard.

The death toll in the devastating inferno is likely to rise, warned a fire official, who had worked throughout the night to douse the blaze.

The district's chief administrator Rahman said the fire has not yet been completely extinguished though it was almost under control since early Sunday.

TV reports early Sunday showed flames were still raging in some parts of the depot.

"It would take another two to three more hours for firefighters to completely douse the fire," Rahman said. 
India on Sunday delivered consignments of essential medicines to a hospital in to bridge the shortage of medical supplies in the island nation amidst the country's ongoing economic crisis, according to the Indian High Commission here.

India has been providing medical supplies along with other basic essentials to as it is going through its worst economic crisis.

A crippling shortage of foreign reserves has led to long queues for fuel, cooking gas, and other essentials while power cuts and soaring food prices heaped misery on the people.

On Sunday, the new consignments of medicines were supplied to the Jaffna Teaching Hospital.

Indian aid to Jaffna Teaching Hospital. Two truck loads of life saving drugs and medical equipment were handed over by Consul General Raakesh Natraj to Director Jaffna Hospital Nanthakumar today, a tweet from the Indian High Commission said.

During the visit by the external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar early this year his attention was brought on the dire medical supplies situation in the island.

The Government Medical Officers' Association, which is the doctor's trade union, also opened up a portal seeking donations of medicines and consumables as part of their initiative to bring at least a temporary relief to the medicine shortage in such a time.

India had earlier supplied diesel to the Jaffna fishermen to facilitate their livelihood activity.

The Indian government had also coordinated humanitarian assistance of food relief from the government of Tamil Nadu.

During last month India delivered more than 25 tons of medical supplies to . Indian credit lines for fuel and essential items purchases have provided a life line to Sri Lanka in its worst economic crisis since 1948.

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has welcomed the two-month renewal of the nationwide truce between Yemen's warring parties under the UN auspices.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh on Saturday said it is hoped that Yemen's siege would be fully lifted, a lasting cease-fire secured and a political solution achieved, Xinhua news agency reported, citing the ministry's website.

UN Special Envoy for Hans Grundberg announced on Thursday that the warring sides have agreed to extend the truce for another two months, hours before the initial truce was set to expire.

Khatibzadeh said has always promoted a political solution to the Yemeni conflict and has "used its entire capacity" to find a "just peace" based on Yemen's own realities.

Yemen's warring parties entered a two-month cease-fire on April 2, which includes allowing commercial flights to and from Houthi-held capital Sanaa and the entry of fuel ships into the Houthi-held port of Hodeidah, and lifting the siege of the government-held Taiz city.

--IANS

int/shs

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fired eight short-range ballistic missiles towards the sea off its east coast on Sunday, likely its largest single test, a day after and the United States ended joint military drills.

The bilateral exercises involved an American aircraft carrier for the first time in more than four years.

South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said that at least eight missiles were fired from the Sunan area of the North Korean capital Pyongyang and they flow between 110 km-600 km (70-370 miles) at altitudes between 25 km to 90 km.

In response, President Yoon Suk-yeol convened a National Security Council meeting and ordered "expanded deterrence of and the United States and continued reinforcement of united defence posture".

The NSC meeting conclued that the missile launch was North Korea's "test and challenge" of the security readiness of South Korea's new administration, which took office last month, the president's office said in a news release.

South Korea's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Kim Gunn, its Special Representative for Korean Peninsula Peace and Security Affairs, discussed the provocation with U.S. Special Representative Sung Kim, the U.S. point man on North Korean affairs. Kim Gunn also held a telephone conference with his

Japanese counterpart Funakoshi Takehiro.

Japanese Defence Minister Nobuo Kishi said the North had launched multiple missiles, and that the act "cannot be tolerated." He said at a briefing that at least one missile had a variable trajectory, which indicates it could manoeuvre to evade missile defences.

The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command said in a statement that North Korea's multiple ballistic missile launches highlighted the destabilising impact of its illicit weapons program but that the event didn't pose an immediate threat.

Michael Duitsman, with the U.S.-based James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies (CNS), said it appeared to be the largest single test ever by . A large number of missiles also suggests a military drill or show of force, rather than a test of new technology.

The launch also followed a visit to Seoul by Sung Kim, who departed on Saturday.

He met his South Korean and Japanese counterparts on Friday to prepare for "all contingencies" amid signs was preparing to conduct a nuclear test for the first time since 2017.

MORE SANCTIONS

Washington has made very clear directly to Pyongyang that it is open to diplomacy, Kim said during the visit, noting that he was willing to discuss items of interest to Pyongyang, such as sanctions relief.

Last week, the United States called for more U.N. sanctions on North Korea over its ballistic missile launches, but China and Russia vetoed the suggestion, publicly splitting the U.N.

Security Council on North Korea for the first time since it started punishing it in 2006, when North

Korea conducted its first nuclear test.

In recent weeks, North Korea has test-fired a range of missiles, including its largest intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM).

North Korea's last tests were on May 25, when it launched three missiles after U.S. President Joe Biden ended an Asia trip where he agreed to new measures to deter the nuclear-armed state.

The first missile appeared to be the North's largest ICBM, the Hwasong-17, while a second unspecified missile appeared to have failed mid-flight, South Korean officials said at the time.

The third missile was a short-range ballistic missile (SRBM).

On Saturday, South Korean and American ships concluded three days of drills in waters off the Japanese island of Okinawa, including air defence, anti-ship, anti-submarine, and maritime interdiction operations, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said.

It has said the exercises "consolidated the two countries' determination to sternly respond to any North Korean provocations".

The exercises included the USS Ronald Reagan, a 100,000-ton nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, among other major warships.

South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol, who took office on May 10, had agreed with Biden to increase bilateral military drills to deter North Korea.

North Korea has criticized previous joint drills as an example of Washington's continued "hostile policies" toward Pyongyang, despite its talk of diplomacy.

(Reporting by Byungwook Kim and Josh Smith; Additional reporting by Junko Fujita in Tokyo; Editing by Leslie Adler, Lisa Shumaker and Raju Gopalakrishnan)

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and his son honored the past and looked to the future Saturday as they paid tribute to at a star-studded concert outside Buckingham Palace celebrating the monarch's 70 years on the throne.

Diana Ross, rock band Queen, Duran Duran, Alicia Keys and performed in front of some 22,000 people gathered on the Mall for the open-air Party at the Palace, which rounded up the third day of a four-day holiday weekend dedicated to celebrating the queen's Platinum Jubilee.

The 96-year-old monarch did not attend the concert, but she delighted the crowds when she appeared in a surprise video recorded with an animated version of another British national treasure: Paddington Bear.

The queen revealed she shared Paddington's love of marmalade sandwiches in a comedy skit that was shown to open the concert, which culminated in speeches by the monarch's son and grandson.

Charles opened his short speech by addressing the queen as Your Majesty, mummy, then paid tribute to her lifetime of selfless service.

The queen's eldest son and heir recalled the ever-growing list of world leaders Elizabeth has met and the endless stacks of state papers she has reviewed during a reign that has now stretched from the early days of the Cold War to the information age.

But he also highlighted his mother's role as a symbol of stability, unifying the U.K. and the Commonwealth as they negotiated this rapidly changing world.

You have met us and talked with us. You laugh and cry with us and, most importantly, you have been there for us, for these 70 years, Charles said as scenes from the queen's life were projected on the palace walls. You pledged to serve your whole life you continue to deliver. That is why we are here. That is what we celebrate tonight."



William preceded his father with remarks that underscored the queen's long-time commitment to the environment as he highlighted the need to combat climate change.

Recalling the queen's 1989 Christmas message, in which she called on all nations to work together to protect the earth for our children and children's children," William said: It's my firm hope that my grandmother's words are as true in 70 years' time as they are tonight, that as nations we come together in common cause, because then there is always room for hope."



The queen has not attended any of the festivities since Thursday due to what the palace describes as episodic mobility issues. But her absence at the concert didn't dampen the party atmosphere among the crowds.

It's a magical experience ... (This is) never again going to happen in our lifetime, and it's just absolutely incredible to be a part of this, said Sam Ahcquoim, from Cornwall in southwestern England. I've been really, really excited and just can't wait to get in there now and start dancing.

The monarch also opted not to attend the Epsom Derby earlier Saturday, and was represented at the prestigious annual horse race by her daughter, Princess Anne.

The queen is widely known as an avid horse lover, and she has only missed the Epsom Derby a handful of times.

On Saturday, five of her former racehorses were paraded, and 40 jockeys who have ridden for the queen formed a guard of honour before the national anthem was played.

She's been breeding horses for over 60 years. She knows all the blood lines and she's won lots of races and she's very knowledgeable," Frankie Dettori, who lined part of the course with fellow jockeys, told the BBC.

I'm sure today she'll find a TV and she's going to watch it live, because she loves the Derby so much, he added.

It was the second time in as many days that the queen's mobility issues have robbed crowds of a chance to see her.

On Friday, the queen skipped a special service of Thanksgiving in her honor at St. Paul's Cathedral in London. Palace officials said she had experienced some discomfort at events the day before, which included waving to huge crowds from Buckingham Palace.

Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan, were among nearly 50 members of the royal family who gathered Friday at St. Paul's Cathedral to honor the absent head of state. It was the couple's first public appearance in the U.K. since they stepped back from royal duties and moved to California two years ago.

Apart from attending Friday's service, the couple has so far stayed out of the limelight.

Their two children, Archie and Lilibet, who turned one Saturday, haven't yet made an appearance during this trip. A spokesperson for the couple said they were spending the day privately and were not joining some 30 other royals at Saturday's concert.

Meanwhile, members of the royal family travelled to Wales and Northern Ireland as part of celebrations across the U.K.

William and his wife Kate brought two of their three children 8-year-old Prince George and 7-year-old Princess Charlotte to Cardiff Castle in Wales before a separate concert in the castle grounds in honour of the queen.

The queen's youngest son, Prince Edward, and his wife Sophie, Countess of Wessex, visited a 1950s-themed seaside funfair in Belfast. Edward tried his hand at pulling a pint of Guinness at a diner, while Sophie took in a 50s and '60s dance demonstration.

(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.)
Hundreds of Puerto Ricans crowded into a convention centre Saturday where federal legislators held a public hearing to decide the future of the island's political status as the U.S. territory struggles to recover from hurricanes, earthquakes and a deep economic crisis.

One by one, dozens of people ranging from politicians to retirees to young people leaned into a microphone and spoke against the island's current territorial status, which recognises its people as U.S. citizens but does not allow them to vote in presidential elections, denies them certain federal benefits and allows them one representative in Congress with limited voting powers.

The hearing comes two weeks after a group of Democratic congress members including the House majority leader and one Republican proposed what would be the first-ever binding plebiscite that would offer voters in three options: statehood, independence or independence with free association, whose terms would be defined following negotiations.

Congress would have to accept as the 51st state if voters so choose it, but the proposal is not expected to survive in the Senate, where Republicans have long opposed statehood.

Everyone, even congress people themselves, know that the possibilities of this becoming law are minimal and maybe non-existent, but it doesn't stop being important, former governor Anbal Acevedo Vil told The Associated Press.

About an hour into the hearing, a small group of people including a former gubernatorial candidate who supports independence burst into the ballroom, pointed fingers at the panel of U.S. legislators and yelled, 120 years of colonialism!



The majority of the audience booed the group and yelled at them to leave as lawmakers called for calm.

Democracy is not always pretty, but it's necessary, said Rep. Ral Grijalva of Arizona, chairman of the U.S. House of Natural Resources Committee, which oversees affairs in U.S. territories.

The proposal of a binding plebiscite a measure that has not yet been introduced in committee has frustrated some on an island that already has held seven unilateral, non-binding referendums on its political status, with no overwhelming majority emerging.

The last referendum was held in November 2020, with 53% of votes for statehood and 47% against, with only a little more than half of registered voters participating.

The hearing comes amid ongoing discontent with Puerto Rico's current political status, with the U.S. Supreme Court further angering many in April after upholding the differential treatment of residents of Puerto Rico.

In an 8-1 vote, the court ruled that making Puerto Ricans ineligible for the Supplemental Security Income program, which offers benefits to blind, disabled and older American, did not unconstitutionally discriminate against them.

As a result, many of those who spoke at Saturday's public hearing welcomed the proposed binding plebiscite.

We finally see the light at the end of the tunnel, said Vctor Prez, a U.S. military veteran who lamented the current political status. Even after all our service and sacrifice, we come back home and we are denied full voting rights and equality. ... We cannot vote for our president, our commander in chief, (but) they send us to war.

Grijalva said the testimonies given Saturday will help him and other legislators revise the proposed measure, which he said is a way to make amends.

He said he hopes it will go to the House floor by August. If eventually approved, it would be held on Nov. 5, 2023.

Acevedo, the former governor, said he hasn't lost hope despite numerous attempts throughout the decades to change the political status of Puerto Rico, which became a U.S. territory in 1898 following the Spanish-American War.

A solution to this problem of more than 120 years has to happen at some point, he said. When will conditions allow for it? That's unpredictable.

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President warned the West that would strike new targets if the United States started supplying Ukraine with longer-range missiles, the TASS news agency reported on Sunday.



If such missiles are supplied, "we will strike at those targets which we have not yet been hitting," Putin was quoted as saying in an excerpt of an interview with Rossiya-1 state television channel.



Putin did not name the targets planned to pursue if Western countries began supplying Ukraine with longer-range missiles. He said the "fuss" around Western weapon supplies to Ukraine was designed to drag out the conflict.



Ukraine has been seeking Multiple Rocket Launch Systems (MLRS) such as the M270 and M142 HIMARS to strike troops and weapons stockpiles at the Russian forces' rear.



U.S. President Joe Biden announced plans this week to give Ukraine precision HIMARS rocket systems after receiving assurances from Kyiv that it would not use them to hit targets inside .



Although Russian officials have warned that the U.S.decision to supply Ukraine with advanced rocket systems could exacerbate the conflict, Putin said it would not bring on any fundamental changes on the battlefield.



"We understand that this supply (of advance rocket systems) from the United States and some other countries is meant to make up for the losses of this military equipment," Putin said.



"This is nothing new. It doesn't change anything in essence."



In an excerpt of the same interview aired on Saturday, Putin boasted that Russian anti-aircraft forces have shot down dozens of Ukrainian weapons and are "cracking them like nuts."



(Reporting by Reuters; editing by Guy Faulconbridge)

France talking to UAE about replacing Russian oil France is talking to the United Arab Emirates about the supply of oil and diesel as it seeks alternatives to Russian energy sources, Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said on Sunday. The minister said France also planned to accelerate investment in the transition to cleaner energy, such as speeding up the roll-out of offshore wind farms, to increase the countrys independence. We are looking for substitutes to the supply of gas or diesel from Russia, Le Maire said. US to let European firms ship Venezuela oil to Europe Italian oil firm Eni SpA and Spain's Repsol SA could begin shipping Venezuelan oil to Europe as soon as next month to make up for Russian crude, five people familiar with the matter said, resuming oil-for-debt swaps halted two years ago when Washington stepped up sanctions on Venezuela. The volume of oil Eni and Repsol are expected to receive is not large. But Washington's greenlight to resume Venezuela's long-frozen oil flows to Europe could provide a symbolic boost for Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.

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As soon as they had finished burying a veteran colonel killed by Russian shelling, the cemetery workers readied the next hole. Inevitably, given how quickly death is felling Ukrainian troops on the front lines, the empty grave won't stay that way for long.

Col. Oleksandr Makhachek left behind a widow, Elena, and their daughters Olena and Myroslava-Oleksandra.

In the first 100 days of war, his grave was the 40th dug in the military cemetery in Zhytomyr, 140 kilometres west of the capital, Kyiv.

He was killed May 30 in the Luhansk region of eastern Ukraine where the fighting is raging.

Nearby, the burial notice on the also freshly dug grave of Viacheslav Dvornitskyi says he died May 27.

Other graves also showed soldiers killed within days of each other on May 10, 9th, 7th and 5th. And this is just one cemetery, in just one of Ukraine's cities, towns and villages laying soldiers to rest.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said this week that Ukraine is now losing 60 to 100 soldiers each day in combat.

By way of comparison, just short of 50 American soldiers died per day on average in 1968 during the Vietnam War's deadliest year for U.S. forces.

Among the comrades-in-arms who paid respects to the 49-year-old Makhachek at his funeral on Friday was Gen. Viktor Muzhenko, the Ukrainian Armed Forces' chief of general staff until 2019. He warned that losses could worsen.

This is one of the critical moments in the war, but it is not the peak, Muzhenko told The Associated Press.

"This is the most significant conflict in Europe since World War II. That explains why the losses are so great. In order to reduce losses, Ukraine now needs powerful weapons that match or even surpass Russian weaponry. This would enable Ukraine to respond in kind.

Concentrations of Russian artillery are causing many of the casualties in the eastern regions that Moscow has focused on since its initial invasion launched Feb. 24 failed to take Kyiv.

Retired Lt. Gen. Ben Hodges, the former commanding general of U.S. Army forces in Europe, described the Russian strategy as a medieval attrition approach" and said that until Ukraine gets promised deliveries of U.S., British and other weapons to destroy and disrupt Russian batteries, these kinds of casualties are going to continue.

This battlefield is so much more lethal than what we all became accustomed to over the 20 years of Iraq and Afghanistan, where we didn't have numbers like this," he said in an AP phone interview.

"That level of attrition would include leaders, sergeants, he added. They are a lot of the brunt of casualties because they are the more exposed, constantly moving around trying to do things.

Makhachek, a military engineer, led a detachment that laid minefields and other defenses, said Col. Ruslan Shutov, who attended the funeral of his friend of more than 30 years.

Once the shelling began, he and a group hid in a shelter. There were four people in his group, and he told them to hide in the dugout. He hid in another. Unfortunately, an artillery shell hit the dugout where he was hiding."



Ukraine had about 250,000 men and women in uniform before the war and was in the process of adding another 100,000.

The government hasn't said how many have died in more than 14 weeks of fighting.

Nobody really knows the number of Ukrainian civilians who have been killed or how many combatants have died on either side. Claims of casualties by government officials who may sometimes exaggerate or lowball their figures for public relations reasons are all but impossible to verify.

Western analysts estimate far higher Russian military casualties, in the many thousands. Still, as Ukraine's losses mount, the grim mathematics of war require that it find replacements. With a population of 43 million, it has manpower.

The problem is recruiting, training and getting them on the front line, said retired U.S. Marine Col. Mark Cancian, a senior adviser at the Center for Strategic and Studies in Washington.

If the war is now moving into a long-term attrition struggle, then you have to build systems to get replacements, he said.

This has been a difficult moment for every army in combat.

Muzhenko, the Ukrainian general, said Zelenskyy's admission of high casualties would further galvanise Ukrainian morale and that more Western weaponry would help turn the tide.

The more Ukrainians know about what is happening at the front, the more the will to resist will grow," he said.

Yes, the losses are significant. But with the help of our allies, we can minimise and reduce them and move on to successful offensives. This will require powerful weapons.

(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.)
Russian agent Dmitry Kovtun, who was accused by the UK authorities in the poisoning death of former spy Alexander Litvinenko in London in 2006, has died at 57.

Russian lawmaker Andrei Lugovoi, who also was accused by the UK in the spy's killing, announced Kovtun's death on his messaging app channel. Lugovoi said that Kovtun died Saturday of a COVID-19-induced illness. Russian news reports said he died at a hospital in Moscow.

A British inquiry concluded that Kovtun and Lugovoi had killed Litvinenko and that Russian President had probably approved the operation. The European Court of Human Rights backed the British conclusion.

The Kremlin has fiercely denied any involvement.

Kovtun and Lugovoi also denied playing any role in Litvinenko's death.

A former agent for the KGB and its post-Soviet successor agency FSB, Litvinenko defected from in 2000 and fled to London. He became involved in exposing corruption and links to organised crime in the Russian intelligence service.

He fell violently ill in November 2006 after drinking tea with two Russian men in a London hotel and died three weeks later. His tea was found to have been laced with radioactive polonium-210.

(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 Russian general was killed in eastern Ukraine, a Russian state media journalist said on Sunday, adding to the string of high-ranking military casualties sustained by Moscow.

The report, published on the Telegram messaging app by state television reporter Alexander Sladkov, did not say precisely when and where Major General Roman Kutuzov was killed.

There was no immediate comment from the Russian defence ministry.

Russian forces have intensified attacks to capture Sievierodonetsk, a key city in Ukraine's eastern Donbas region that Moscow is targeting after failing to take the capital Kyiv early in the war.

Russia already classifies military deaths as state secrets even in times of peace and has not updated its official casualty figures in

Ukraine since March 25, when it said that 1,351 Russian soldiers had been killed since the start of its military campaign on Feb. 24.

Russia says it is carrying out "special military operation" designed to demilitarise Ukraine and rid it of nationalists threatening the Russian-speaking population. Ukraine and Western countries dismiss Russia's claims as a pretext to invade.

Britain's defence ministry said on Monday that Russia appeared to have suffered significant losses amongst mid- and junior-ranking officers in Ukraine.

(Reporting by Reuters; editing by Guy Faulconbridge and Nick Zieminski)

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
raised for its biggest market of Asia by more than expected as demand rises with the regions main economies easing coronavirus restrictions.

The increase for July shipments resumes a streak of hikes that started in February and was only broken when state producer cut prices from record levels for this month.

Aramco raised its key Arab Light crude grade for Asian customers by $2.10 a barrel from June to $6.50 above the benchmark it uses. The market was expecting a boost of $1.50, according to a Bloomberg survey of refiners and traders.

The kingdom, the worlds biggest oil exporter, has raised prices for shipments sold under long-term contracts after futures surged following Russias invasion of Ukraine. Crude has climbed more than 50% this year to almost $120 a barrel.

The market has tightened as flows from Russia drop due to US and European sanctions. In addition, Asian countries such as China and Singapore are ending lockdowns that crimped demand in the past two or three months.

In some places the demand rebound is quite something, Mike Muller, head of Asia at Vitol Group, said Sunday on a podcast produced by Dubai-based Gulf Intelligence. A lot of the south-eastern Asian countries, where Im based, are very much exceeding expectations in terms of road-transportation demand. And try buying an air ticket in Singapore in the summer holidays. Its awfully tough.

OPEC+ agreed on Thursday to accelerate output increases. The 23-nation cartel, led by and Russia, said it would add 648,000 barrels a day to the market in each of July and August, about 50% more than its moves in recent months.

Still, most analysts said the group is unlikely to meet its targets because many members, even aside from Russia, are struggling to pump more. and the United Arab Emirates are about the only OPEC+ nations with significant spare capacity.

Saudi Arabia sends more than 60% of its crude exports to Asia, with China, Japan, South Korea and India being the biggest buyers.